Visitors and Venues: What to Expect

 

For many people Saturdays certainly have a different meaning. It is a special day for college football. When campuses across the country bus fill with tailgates, bands, cheerleaders, etc. Crowds flood stadiums to witness their favorite teams lace up the cleats.

Coming soon BYU will find themselves traveling to many of those Big 12 stadiums. Each location holds a unique flavor of it's own. They all hold a defined capacity, various school traditions, scenic landscapes, venue feel (look/layout, etc), mobility (accessibility, concourse walkability/movement, etc), tailgating, student section environment/involvement, etc. Thus, here's a quick look ahead to for the visitors and venues that will be encountered in the Big 12.

Baylor

McLane Stadium opened in 2014 with a capacity of 45140. The venue layout is very similar to TCUs Amon G Carter in many ways. It has an open concourse to allow fans view the game as they walk about the facility. The grass end zone (Matrix Turf) is pretty cool, but it's completely closed off unless you have a ticket. The Baylor Line student section and stadium placement is solid breathing down the necks of opponent players. It was founded in 1970 as a spirit organization for first year students. Before each home game the students run across the field to form a human tunnel for the football team as it enters the field. They then head to their special sections in the stands, where the best seats in the house, directly behind the visitor bench-are reserved expressly for them. While visiting enjoy the food on site from Catfish Po'boy Sandwiches, BBQ brisket sliders, and bacon wrapped hot dogs.

BYU

LaVell Edwards Stadium can be certainly described as a diamond in the college football rough. Located on the BYU campus in the heart of Provo Utah, the stadium offers a perfectly functional home for the football program and a solid football watching experience including an incredibly beautiful view of the Wasatch Mountains in the distance as well.

LES opened in 1964 and seats 63,470. The field is covered with a natural grass capable of draining eight inches of rain per hour. The well kept grass field is consistently deemed one of the best in the entire country. In 1982, 1988 and 1997 the Football Writers Association of America cited BYU for its "outstanding press box area" (four-level press box).

Of course, the program has a deep rich history that includes a national title (1984), a Heisman trophy, and a number of football greats, such as Steve Young, Jim McMahon, Ty Detmer and more. The concourses might not be flashy, but there are plenty of viable concession stands and all kinds of food choices. Of note: the BYU Creamery stands, which sell ice cream made on campus and the famous Cougar Tail, an 18 inch rather impressive maple frosted donut. While the built in concession stands also sell the typical stadium staples-hot dogs, popcorn, pizza, and the like-look out for specialty carts throughout the concourses that offer BBQ, loaded hot dogs, Korean BBQ bowls and much more.

Central Florida (UCF)

UCF stadium is known as the Bounce House and is located in Orlando FL on the modern north side of campus. It opened on 15 Sept 2007 and has a capacity of 44,206. Bounce House's current name comes from the facility's longtime nickname "the Bounce House" as it was found to be susceptible to considerable shaking when its crown jumps (most notably when the song Kernkraft 400 by Zombie Nation is played) in unison. Although, it was stated that the stadium was structurally sound and that this effect would not cause long-term damage to the facility, measures were undertaken following the stadium's inaugural season to reduce these effect. The stadium's50 yard line (natural grass playing surface) is lined up with Launch Pad 39A to symbolize UCFs longstanding partnership with NASA and other space agencies.

Cincinnati

Home of the Bearcats, Nippert Stadium is the second oldest stadium in college football. Football at Nippert Stadium dates back over 100 years and opened in 1915. Whatever the conference over the years, Cincinnati has consistently proven itself a winner and likely will remain highly competitive in the Big 12. In the mid 1920's James gamble provided $250,000 to complete the stadium. The stadium was named after Gamble's grandson, Jimmy Nippert, who died from a spike wound while playing football for the Bearcats.

Houston

John O'Quinn Field at TDECU Stadium serves at the home of the Houston Cougars that opened in 2014 and has a capacity of roughly 40,000 +SRO (standing room only). TDECU Stadium derives is name from Texas Dow Employees Credit Union, the largest credit union in Houston, which had purchased the name rights and had a joint press conference on 8 July 2014 to announce the partnership. The stadium was designed with a corrugated metal exterior skin to allow for optimal air flow and natural lighting. Simultaneously, the orientation allows for a maximized view of the Houston skyline. The eleven yard line (synthetic surface, a slit-film turf blade with a sand/rubber combination for infill) commemorates Heisman winner Andre Ware's retired jersey number. There are a total of 160 concession points of sale throughout the stadium.

Iowa State

Jack Trice Stadium, sometimes referred to as 'the Jack" is located in Ames IA named in honor of Jack Trice, Iowa State's first African American athlete who died of injuries sustained during a 1923 games against Minnesota. The stadium opened in 1975 with a 17-12 over Air Force and holds a capacity of 61,500. The stadium consists of double decked grandstands running the length of either sideline and encompassing the south end zone with the field surface natural grass. Be sure to check out the Crab Rangoon Fries available in the South End Zone (sweet chili sauce, crab cream cheese spread, crispy wonton strings & green onions served over stadium fries) or be on the look out for specialty Bavarian Pretzels available at Victory Bell in concessions.

Kansas

Historically, lets face it Kansas has really been a basketball school. Although, the Jayhawk football team has some some talent over the years (John Riggins, Gale Sayers, Dana Stubblefield, etc). David Booth KS Memorial Stadium located in Lawrence KS opened in 1921 is dedicated as a memorial to KS students who died in WWI. Memorial Stadium is recognized as the first stadium built on a college campus west of the Mississippi River and is the seventh oldest collegiate stadium in the nation. Originally the stadium had only east & west bleachers which were expanded southward in 1925. The north bowl seating section was added in 1927 to give the stadium its horseshoe shape which it retains today with a capacity of 47,000. The field has been artificial turf since 1970 and in the summer of 2009 the old AstroPlay surface was replaced with FieldTurf.

Kansas State

Bill Snyder Family Stadium located in Manhatten KS is the home field for the Kansas State University Wildcats and is named after the family of head coach Bill Snyder. Over the past 31 seasons K-State has gone 164-49 and 1 tie. The stadium opened in 1968 and has a AstroTurf surface. The defensive team does have a nickname "the Lynch Mob" that dates back to the 1990s. The term has historical resonance because Manhatten was well known for lynching horse thieves as a means of frontier justice during the towns brief wild west era in the 1860s

Oklahoma State

Boone Pickens Stadium is home to the Oklahoma State University Cowboys and opened in 1920 with a capacity of 60,000k. It is aligned in an east-west direction since 1920 and the first is the oldest in the Big 12 Conference. The cowboys have quite a rich history that includes (Barry Sanders, Dez Bryant, Thurman Thomas, Justin Blackmon, Dexter Manley, etc). Boone Pickens Stadium (BPS) was named during a halftime ceremony in 2003 versus Wyoming in honor of OSU alumnus T Boone Pickens, a Texas oilman and entrepreneur. It provides a unique game day environment and a roaring home field advantage. Some of the west end zone project now includes a new multilevel football operations center. Some of the features also include: football offices, meeting rooms, speed/conditioning center, locker rooms, equipment room, athletic medicine center, media facilities, hall of fame areas along with a new training table.

TCU

Amon G Carter is an open air style football stadium on the campus of TCU in Fort Worth named after a prominent Fort Worth business, newspaper publisher and city booster. It has several nicknames: The Carter, and Hell's Half Acre (a reference to the site in Fort Worths wild west past located near the stadium, as well as the difficulty of opposing teams in winning there at the stadium). It opened in 1930 and has a capacity of 50,000 with bermuda grass surface. While there be sure to try Riff Ram BBQ (near section 129 behind the left end zone) that includes pulled pork sandwiches, smoked chicken sandwiches and beef brisket sandwiches.

Texas Tech

Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbuck TX was built in the Spanish Renaissance architectural style. It opened in 1947 and seats roughly 60,000 (44th largest college football stadium in the US) with a FieldTurf surface. The playing field runs in the traditional north south configuration and sits 30 feet below grade. There is definitely a rich football history (Kliff Kingsbury, Patrick Mahomes, Mike Leach, Michael Crabtree, etc). Hot items from the concessions include Double Dave's Pizza, BBQ Brisket Nachos, Green Chili Burgers, and the Chocolate Churros.

West Virginia

Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium in Morgantown WV opened in 1980 and seats roughly 60,000. The facility is named for Milan Puskar, a Morgantown resident and founder of Mylan Pharmaceuticals. The FieldTurf playing surface retains the stadiums original name of Mountaineer Field. Fans were surprised when singer John Denver made an appearance and led the fans in the singing of his hit song "Take Me Home, Country Roads". The song has been played at every home game since 1972. It also hosted a notable pre season NFL game back in 1998 between the Steelers and the Atlanta Falcons. When there be sure to try Scrimmage Stand's pulled pork sandwiches (near section 121 next to the end zone) or the Red Zone Grill's Grilled Chicken Sandwiches. 

Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins are organic substances naturally present in many plant & animal products. People obtain vitamins from both plant/animal products we eat. Minerals are inorganic substances found naturally in soil and water. The human body needs the right mix of nutrients for good health. Understanding the basics of vitamins and minerals can certainly be beneficial in a healthy life.

A-

B1(Thiamin)-Helps turn body food into energy.It is the key for structure of brain cells.

B2(Riboflavin)-It's added to many fortified breads/grains and found naturally in eggs, asparagus, and other green veggies and milk. 

B3 (Niacin)-This is a family of compounds that your body needs to turn food into energy and store it.

B6-This vitamin may help protect against memory loss, colorectal cancer, etc.It is found in many leafy/root vegetables, non-citrus fruits like bananas/avacados, and watermelon.

B12-Helps the body break down food for energy.

C-

Calcium-Is the building block strength for your bones/teeth.It is key to make muscles move, including your heart.

 

Chromium-Only a trace amount of this mineral is needed, believed to help keep blood sugars levels steady.

D-Keeps bones strong and helps nerves carry messages, and has a role in fighting germs. Careful time in the sun is the best source. Also available in fish as salmon, tuna and mackerel.

E-Helps protect cells from damage caused by cigarette/smoke/pollutions, etc. It also helps cells talk to each other and keep blood moving. Sunflower seeds/nuts, almonds, hazelnuts and peanuts are good sources.

 

Folic Acid-Helps make DNA & prevent spina bifids and other brain birth defects. Asparagus, brussel sprouts, dark leafy greens, orange/juice and legumes are rich in folic acid.

K-Is needed for blood clotting and healthy bones. Leafy greens as spinach, kale, or broccoli serving will give oyu more than enough for the day

Iodine-Your thyroid uses iodine to make hormones that control metabolism.

Iron-Helps with healthy red blood cells which assists to get oxygen to your tissues. Beans, lentils, oysters and spinach are great sources.

Magnesium-Plays a role iin making muscles squeeze, heartbeat, controls blood sugar, blood pressure, make proteins and DNA. Almonds, cashews, spinach, soybeans, avocado and whole grains.

Potassium-Bananas but leafy greens are a better source. It keeps blood pressure in a normal range and help kidneys work.

Selenium-Fights off infections and helps your thyroid gland work.

Zinc-is great for the immune system and it helps cuts, scrapes, sores heal. Plant sources include sesame/pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, lentils and cashews. Animal food sources include oysters, beef, crap, lobster and pork.

Advantages of the Big 12

BYU's athletic director Tom Holmoe has stated frequently over the independent era that the end goal is exposure and P5 access. Well, that time has come for both with acceptance into the Big 12 yesterday. One could certainly ask what are some of the advantages of having secured P5 access in the Big 12.

Something to play for. Student athletes regardless of school affiliation if they lose to their rival may seem defeated with nothing else left to play for the rest of the season. Now, every game matters with a conference title in mind. Even having a much better bowl matchup at the end of a regular season can matter rather than having to settle for some Smak Ramen Noodles bowl matchup.

No front loaded heavy strength of schedules anymore. Due to most conferences playing more of their conference schedule later in the year meant playing most of the big time opponents all at the first part of the season. Often, playing such a difficult front loaded schedule often meant the potential of accruing more injuries and in some cases knocking that student athlete out for the year due to the nature of the injury.

Less late night games. Yes, BYU was a ESPN tv darling. However, the reality is on only a couple of ESPN channels one can only have so many games and in what order. The nature was that BYU wasn't at the top of the pecking order vs having games that may have included teams as Oregon, Clemson, Florida State, etc. Thus, BYU often still would be on the ESPN schedule but stuck with the late night games and sometimes not the greatest announcing crew.

Access to P5 status with legit bowl games. This one is a rather obvious and easy choice. Nothing against the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl but if given the choice of a SmackRoman Noodle Bowl matchup or bowls such as Liberty Bowl, Texas Bowl or even the Sugar Bowl that is not a tough decision whatsoever.

Stuck with the other conference officials. Let's face it, some conference officiating crews aren't that great. Often, we had to schedule many Pac12 teams and their crews weren't that wonderful. 

Improvement in the recruiting landscape. Being able to cast a much wider net. Often the top athletes that BYU would lose out to other schools who had P5 status like athletes such as: Simi Fehoko (Stanford), Xavier SuaFilo (UCLA), Siaki Ika (LSU), Manti Teo (Notre Dame), Noah Sewell (OR), Kingsley Suamataia (OR), etc. One can't blame them due to a conference affiliation. The state of Utah has been a great producer of football talent and now those student athletes can finally stay home.

Increased revenue. This is certainly a no brainer which can kick into other things such as better facilities, higher pay to retain assistants, etc, Fans can now also have the draw of bringing in better quality teams on a more regular basis for better strength of scheduling. 

Putting On the Whole Armor of God

 

The phrase putting on the armor of God comes from Ephesians chapter 6. This biblical reference tells us so that we may stand protected against the evil one. It is from confidence in our Savior's victory that we can put on the full armor of God and stand firm in our daily battles. Our battles could be political, authoritarian or certainly simply against the spiritual forces of evil in today's society. Below can be the different parts to the armor of God.

In ancient days, a Roman man or soldier would wear long robes that would get in the way of work or even fighting so they would wrap up the long draping material. This was girding up one's loins. To be fitted with this belt of truth, meant he was ready to face action and go to battle. Regardless of the our culture or time we live in, the Lord knows we need to be wrapped in truth. 

This breastplate of armor protected the soldier's vital organs in the heat of the battle. Our breastplate can be found in his righteousness. His righteousness will never fail. Living a life rooted in God's word is powerful in protecting our heart and defeating the enemy. Soak in and obey instructions from the Lord. Be steadfast. Look at the our daily activities. Do they uplift? Do they strengthen? Or do that weaken you?

Roman soldiers feet were typically fitted with sandals called caligae. These sandals were made to help protect soldier's feet during the long marches into battle.  Caligar had extremely thick soles, wrapped perfectly around their ankles to help protect against blistering. They even had spikes on the bottom to help them stand firm as they traveled.  Believers needs to have certainly a firm foundation in the Gospel of peace. We can find peace knowing we are secure in what Jesus has done for us

The Roman soldier's shield, also called a scutum, was made of impenetrable wood, leather, canvas and metal which could be doused in water to extinguish the fiery arrows of the enemy. We can have that same shield of faith placing our trust in the Lord. 

The soldier's head was one of the most vulnerable areas. Without the helmet of salvation, one blow to the head could prove fatal. Surrender thoughts/minds/activities that don't line up with scripture and things that are right. 

In the hands of a skilled warrior, the soldier sword of spirit could pierce through even the strongest armor. Our sword is the word of God. Study his word through the scriptures, prayer and revelation. If the word is our sword and the blade is dull then we ain't cutting anything worthwhile.  

What is wealth?

 
It could be easily looked on as an abundance of valuable possessions. In a worldly sense that could certainly include money, titles, awards, degrees, etc. What is then my worth? What have I obtained or accumulated? There could be different types of wealth as well (financial, physical, spiritual, economic, etc. What then is the purpose of wealth? One could say to provide for oneself/family and/or others and to build up the kingdom of God. 

Life is God's gift to man, and what we do with it is our gift back to God. We brought literally nothing into this world and it is certain that we cannot carry anything out. Religion is worth everything to us and for it we should be willing to employ our time, our talents, our means, our energies, and is some cases literally even our lives. So how are we spending our free time? Are we giving back to others? Who are we helping? What is it that we are watering in our lives to improve upon what we have?

We have been instructed to seek first the kingdom of God and all the things has will be added or give unto you. What an incredibly wonderful blessing. If there is a specific blessing that we desire ultimately then we should seek out everything that governs that blessing an work on becoming obedient to whatever those laws are. 

Eating Healthier On A Budget

 
Eating healthier on a budget is much easier than you would think. With a little planning you can nourish the system without breaking the bank. Before shopping take a initial pantry inventory. Check to see if there is anything that can be cut back on starting with those sugary snacks or soft drinks. Try swapping them out with a healthier home made alternative. Now on to the tips.

One of the best ways to begin is make a plan. Figure out your meals in advance. It may take a little bit of more time but will be well worth it. Next start making that old fashioned grocery list by hand with a pen and paper.

Keep an eye out for sales and store promotions. Often it is a great way to save a lot of hard earned money. It is also a great way to figure out the weekly meal plan. Look as well to the local farmers market. Support local when possible. It's a wonderful way to make friends and possible connections to access often the freshest source of fruits, vegetables including often better deals than a retail grocery store chain can offer. When possible find out the farmers market hours. Typically, towards the end of a day vendors may also mark down items that may only last another day or two. 

Learn to read price labels from the shelf and on the items. Even if two similar products may look the same there may be more or less on the inside. Search the label for price per pound and or what it contains. One item may not be the best value. While another may contain harmful ingredients to your health system. If you don't know what some of the items it may contain look it up. Do the research. 

Buy certain foods in bulk when possible. Yes, it may cost a little more now but in the long run may average out to much less saving more coin to stay in your pockets. Items such as rice, oats, condiments, spices, etc especially if it might be something you may use often. 

A time for everything. Look to the seasons. Yes, items in season can be great for even later when previously frozen. Just because strawberries might not be in season now they can still be great with some prior planning. Frozen produce can be a great way to make nutritious smoothies later.

Look for do it yourself. It can be a great to make a better tasting salad dressing, dips and spreads that can reduce/eliminate unwanted ingredients from a retail store source that is much more affordable. Eating healthier can be easy and on a budget is certainly possible with some planning and well worth it in the long run. One simply cannot put a price tag on personal health. It's priceless.

Who has the best root beer?

 

Pharmacist Charles Elmer Hires was the first to successfully market a commercial brand of root beer. Much has certainly changed since 1875. Who has the best root beer today? It's time to settle the great debate. 

Barqs

This brand debuted in 1898 as the creation of Edward Barq with his brother Gaston. Barqs is still owned by the Barqs family but currently manufactured/distributed by the Coca Cola Company. The bar has been set incredibly high and is noted for being one of the few caffeine based root beers in the world. It certainly has one of the best defining slogans around as well (Barqs Bites). Often it simply comes down to flat out expectations. Straight forward with a strong flavor. There's no messing around. When you reach for a Barqs you know exactly what you are getting.

IBC

The IBC brand created in St Louis in 1919 wants your experience one to be remembered. It is one of the most available brands on the market. IBC is a fine root beer that's not overly sweet with solid flavor punch to it. The flavor is deep, satisfying and certainly has a classic feel to it. 

A&W

Roy Allen bought the original recipe and began marketing his beverage in Lodi, California and soon partnered with Frank Wright. However, in 1924 Allen bought his partner out and obtained the trademark for now one of the top selling root beers found in the world. Solid root beer but I believe among the tops when making floats. 

Dads

Founded back in 1937 Dad's certainly has a shelf life that has lasted through the times. Although, the brand could be much more popular nationally with better distribution channels. Sometimes you just need a little taste. A little splash here. A little splash there. Thank me later. 

Mug

Mug Root Beer was initially marketed as "Belfast Root Beer" during the 1940s by the Belfast Beverage Company. The product name was later changed to Mug Old Fashioned Root Beer then shortened to simply Mug Root Beer. Currently manufactured/distributed by PepsiCo with the brand bulldog mascot "Dog". Mug is a common canned grocery store soda popular also with company BBQs. It has a syrupy sweet candy like root beer flavor designed to satisfy the masses, not impress the aficionado. Mug has a creamy texture and the flavors lingers on the tongue.

Hires

The granddaddy of root beers now owned by the Dr Pepper conglomerate. It is the oldest marketed root beer brand. How much of the original recipe remains is absolutely anyone's guess. The time tested taste is certainly pleasing, well balanced, and with a crisp assertive lasting flavor. 

Shasta

With a surprising high ranking for canned soda, Shasta has a distinct favor for its satisfying and refreshing crispiness. Yes, the can design may be awful but don't let this deter you from popping one open. It has a very strong root beer aroma when opened and that's always a good sign.

Stewarts

The bottling by Cable Car Beverage in Denver Colorado has somewhat of an upscale appearance. Stewarts has a high level of carbonation and doesn't exactly stand out because it nails it. It has a very popular and dependable taste. 

Weinhard's

Bottled by Blitz Weinhard Brewery in Portland Oregon. It is brew flavorful and complex. Weinhard's has a nice appearance, great full vanilla touch to flavor, no initial burst of carbonation but this one rolls over the tongue so easily to quench the thirst. 

Take a chance and try one of the delicious unique root beers from above, or one of your favorites. Not all root beers are created equal. It's all a matter of personal taste.