JEFF’S 32

THE JEFF’S 36 COUNTDOWN

#1 – “How You Remind Me” by Nickelback: Let the onslaught of Nickelback songs finally come to an end. A fitting end it is for the band which I have grown to consider my favorite musical artist. With four songs in this year’s countdown (and five total in countdown history) including this #1 song, Nickelback has to garner some support for the Jeff’s Countdown Hall of Fame. “How You Remind Me” debuted innocently enough at #22 in Jeff’s 31, but bolted up the countdown the following year, all the way up to the number 6 position. In Jeff’s 33 is continued its ascent and moved into the #3 position. The next two years were spent at #2, preparing for this year’s moment of glory. I dedicate this song to my children, Allison, Courtney, and Danielle. You all remind me of what life is about every day: the love of a family. Thanks for being great kids; I love you all very much. And to all of you who have followed the countdown, I love you, too. I hope you enjoyed it, and I hope you return in another 328 days for the next one. Until then, enjoy the video for the #1 song on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_Cfvj4Avfo

#2 – “Blurry” by Puddle Of Mudd: This song regains some momentum after slipping a bit in last year’s countdown. After debuting at #8 in Jeff’s 32, “Blurry” bolted up the countdown to #6 and then all the way to #3 in Jeff’s 34. It slipped to #5 last year before its big leap up to #2 this year. I go back to the Uno table to dedicate this one. I send it out to Norman Clough, who has recently developed a chronic case of blurry logic, as he continues to work with Bob Stearrett, only to end up being burned by Bob in the end. On Friday for instance, Norman stayed in the game to prevent Bob from losing, only to be asked for a major (draw four) by Bob on a “Go Fish” card later in the game. A few rounds later Norman ended up the loser. Perhaps one day Norman will learn his lesson. Until then I hope he enjoys the video to this song which can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlcUEOvzUR0

#3 – “Piano Man” by Billy Joel: For only the second time in the last three years, this song will not occupy the top spot in the countdown. In Jeff’s 31, it was stationed in the #2 spot as “Best Of Times” made its only appearance in the countdown’s top spot. “Piano Man” and “The Safety Dance” are now the only 2 songs to appear in all 16 countdowns. After holding down the #7 position in Jeff’s 21, “Piano Man” moved to #2 in Jeff’s 22, and then to #3 in Jeff’s 23, before beginning its run of 11 #1’s in 12 years. I dedicate this one to Ed McDonald, a former roommate in college. Ed was a huge Billy Joel fan who really turned me on to Joel’s less popular music, and made me a fan for life as well. To date, I’ve seen more Billy Joel concerts than any other artist, and as evidenced by this song and the four other Billy Joel songs to appear in the countdown over the years, you can tell I’m still a huge fan. The video to this song can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60O5x4e5p2c

#4 – “Harder To Breathe” by Maroon 5: Holding steady at number 4 in its fourth year in the countdown is this contemporary song from Maroon 5. I must say that I’m a little disappointed that Maroon 5 hasn’t had a solid follow-up hit since its “Songs About Jane” album of about 5 years ago. Regardless, this one remains a favorite of mine as evidenced by its Top 5 status for a second consecutive year. I dedicate this one to Keifer Sutherland, whose character Jack Bauer on the hit TV show “24” must be finding it harder and harder to breathe as he escapes certain death at least once every hour. Last Monday he came within nanoseconds of being blown up by a suitcase nuke and then later in the hour narrowly escaped a house booby trapped with a conventional bomb. I’m convinced that before the show ends its run Jack is going to die from an infected hangnail or something like that. Of course until that happens, I’ll be glued to the television every night the show is on. A live video version of this song can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAMMLb4juPY

#5 – “Original Prankster” by Offspring: In its seventh countdown year, “Original Prankster” slips for the first time. It moves back two spots from last year’s #3 position. It debuted at #10 in Jeff’s 30, and worked its way up until peaking last year. I dedicate this one to Tom Grey. A little over a year ago, Tom pulled a pretty good prank on our fellow associate Johnny U. At our plant Christmas Party “after party” a bunch of us gathered in John’s office to celebrate with a few beers. After some good times John excused himself to go home for the evening. A few minutes later I noticed that John had left his computer on, logged into his Lotus Notes email account. When I announced this fact to the other remaining party goers, Tom quickly sat down at John’s computer and began typing an all-plant email. I was distracted with the label maker in the office, or else I might have pulled the prank myself. What resulted from Tom’s work at John’s computer was a hilarious message for all the plant and a lesson John will never forget about why you should never leave your computer on and logged in. Several associates gave up their Christmas holiday time in attempt to prevent certain leaders at the plant from receiving the controversial email. This all went for naught, when at 7:47 AM on the first morning back from the Christmas holiday, Glen Kirk, sent a “reply to all with history” to the message, and it ended up being seen by everyone anyway. Way to go Tom, and better yet, way to go Glen! For those of you who have never seen the message, or have not seen it in some time, I have included it below. The video to this song can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTn09m6R6mQ Here is Tom’s email: To all of APS. I LOVE YOU GUYS ! ! ! ! ! YOur the Bestest. You know for years I have been looking for a team I could be friends wit. foever. Now and den I find mysef takin wit peopel at xrismas about the food times. I nooo that I can count on my buddiiies to hep me wheneber I ned hep. You gyx r da berst. So in closin, I tout I'd tell yall to kiss my butttt, since I haven;t seen ya all night llooonng. Were are evryboddy. I nees somonest to drink da beeer/.

#6 – “When I’m Gone” by 3 Doors Down: After 3 years of rapid ascension up the countdown ranks, from 19 to 11 to 6, “When I’m Gone” steadies out in its fourth countdown appearance as it holds onto the sixth spot for the second consecutive year. On Valentine’s Day, I dedicate this one to my wife and valentine, Cindy. Love me when I’m gone (not that I’m going anywhere). A live video version of this song can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrBC3ekeZtc

#7 – “Meant To Live” by Switchfoot: This song moves up one space from last year’s #8 position. It is in its third year in the countdown. It debuted at #17 in Jeff’s 34. I was all set to dedicate this one to the General Motors Corporation, who initially stood up to the National Alliance on Mental Illness and told them they would not alter their “suicidal robot” commercial (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQKk3PI-DW8) which first aired during the Superbowl. But I soon found out that GMC is altering the commercial to remove the suicide scene. What a bunch of pansies over there at GMC. They now join all the other companies who have bowed to these special interest groups just because they might show society demeaning a fry cook (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQ4SLkj0k7U) or someone supporting a homophobic response to two men kissing (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0oEz6FOnYY) or a robot having suicidal thoughts. It’s a robot people… a friggin’ robot. These commercials were “meant to live”. Thank goodness for YouTube. Oh yeah, you can also watch the video to this song on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=72FkCoJfhgU

#8 – “Best Of Times” by Styx: Celebrating its tenth year in the Jeff’s Countdown is this classic from Styx. It debuted at #17 in Jeff’s 27. How it was overlooked in countdowns previous to that one is still a mystery. Buoyed by its status as one of the chosen songs to be played at my wedding reception in 1998, it worked its way up the countdown, eventually becoming the only song to supplant “Piano Man” at the #1 position over the last 12 years. It spent only one year at #1 (Jeff’s 31 Countdown) and has slowly fallen down the chart since then. I dedicate this one to my fellow members of the 2006 Appleton South volleyball team, re-peat champions in the “A” Division of the Gore Volleyball League. (http://www.geocities.com/cjrogers2002/vbchamps06.jpg) Defending our championship proved to be quite a challenge last season. We finished the regular season in second place, 5 games behind Elk Mills V, and just a single game ahead of Cherry Hill. After sweeping through the first two rounds of the playoffs, we faced the regular season champs EMV in the finals. This was a team against which we held a 3-6 record during the regular season. They were the prohibitive favorites in the finals, but came out with a case of the nerves, allowing us to win the first two games of the best of five match. After squaring the match at 2 games apiece, we made a critical strategic decision which led to victory in the fifth game and celebration of our second consecutive title. These were the best of times. A live video version of this song can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEPaWhJYgas

#9 – “Beverly Hills” by Weezer: Moving up two spots from last years #11 debut position is this rock anthem from Weezer. This is a popular song around my house. Not only has it struck gold in the Jeff’s Countdown, it has fared even better in the countdown’s of my daughter’s. It finished at #1 in the Allison’s 6 Countdown, and #2 in the Courtney’s 4 Countdown. Both of those countdowns were held last spring. Also occurring last spring was the conversion of this song into “Appleton South” by me and my fellow Trip J band members, for the 2006 APS Fiscal Year Celebration. I therefore dedicate this song to one of my Trip J band mates, JP Fuhr. JP was instrumental in both producing and performing our version of the song. Unfortunately Trip J had a falling out shortly after the release of “Appleton South,” and never recorded a follow-up. I wanted to follow-up with “Meatball Wizard” a parody of “Pinball Wizard” and an ode to our friend “Meatball” Mike Hawley. Jim wanted to remake the Charles In Charge Theme song, and JP just wanted to have his picture taken under the umbrella.

#10 – “The Safety Dance” by Men Without Hats: This song is now one of just two songs to appear in every Jeff’s Countdown, beginning with Jeff’s 21. (The other song has yet to be revealed). It spent one year at #2 in Jeff’s 28, and otherwise has been all over the countdown ranks, but never lower than #14. I dedicate this song to my former college roommate, Tom Williams. As best as I can remember, Tom was the first person to whom I said, “safety,” in response to having “Doorknob Rules” enacted upon me. For those not familiar with the Doorknob Rules, the following website gives a thorough description of them: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doorknob_%28game%29 I only wish I had known about the “Six Fish” variation to the game back then. In many cases it would have been easier to name off six fishes before reaching the doorknob. Oh well, I’m probably a better person now for all the beatings I took. To see the little person dance, please check out the video at the following YouTube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7c34JxPKEYI

#11 – "When It’s Over" by Sugar Ray: It’s hard to believe this song is now in it’s sixth countdown year. It seems like just yesterday I remember hearing it on the radio on the way home from the doctor. And it seems like just yesterday I saw Mark McGrath and Sugar Ray signing it at halftime of the Sixers’ game when they were in the NBA Finals against the Lakers. As always, I dedicate this one to Blair. And if you want to see a video of this song, please check out the YouTube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8ozMybeyyE

#12 – "Inside Out" by Eve 6: We begin the final duodecad of hits with this classic from Eve 6. If it hasn’t reached countdown classic status yet, it surely will with just a few more appearances in the countdown. It debuted at #16 in Jeff’s 28, and promptly worked its way up the countdown until it reached the #2 position in Jeff’s 32. Since then it has slowly descended back down the countdown. The number 12 reminds me of magnesium which has an atomic number of 12. Magnesium reminds me of Magnesium Sulfate Heptahydrate (Epsom Salt to the lay man) and Magnesium Sulfate Heptahydrate reminds me of my former co-worker and mentor Jim Brendemuehl, to whom I dedicate this song. Jim has been the long time Unit Manager for the Epsom Salt Process at the PQ Corporation (http://www.pqcorp.com) and was one of the few true friends I made in the 7 years I worked for PQ. As I approach 7 years at Gore (www.gore.com), I have been reflecting more and more on the sentence I spent with PQ. I thank Jim for the time he spent showing me the ropes and I wish him good luck from now until retirement. I’m really jonesing for some bar chips from the Canal Port. My friendship with Jim and those bar chips are really the only two things I miss about PQ Corporation and Utica, Illinois. The video to this song can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BH5x91CCXOc

#13 – "Fall To Pieces" by Velvet Revolver: Scott Weiland makes a second consecutive appearance in the Jeff’s Countdown. In the #14 song he does it as a member of Stone Temple Pilots. This time he does it as a member of Velvet Revolver. “Fall To Pieces” continues its slow ascent up the countdown ranks. It debuted at #20 in Jeff’s 34, moved up to #15 last year, and creeps up another 2 spaces this year. I dedicate this one to Britney Spears, whose relationship with Kevin Federline has recently fallen to pieces. I really could care less about her personal life, but the break up and her ensuing deviant behavior with Paris Hilton has made for some great jokes and water cooler talk, or in my case, lunchtime Uno talk. Britney’s antics have led to endless underpants jokes, and the title of the Uno Nappy for November 30, 2006, which was “Britney Fired the Gardener Nappy” awarded to Jim Sullivan. So thank you Britney, for giving me something to talk about at lunch. The video to this song can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQlU2TQhNec&mode=related&search=

#14 – "Plush" by Stone Temple Pilots: This song is a Jeff’s Countdown classic. It debuted at #11 in Jeff’s 23. It worked its way toward the top of the charts in the mid 90’s, and although it never made it to #1, it did reach #2 in three separate countdowns. In recent years is has been slowly descending down the countdown, but still rests comfortably within the Top 15. I dedicate this one to Mark Schultz. Mark was a college colleague of mine. He suffered an affliction in which tiny droplets of sweat would rain down from his forehead whenever he was in a warm room or under pressure. I have always suffered from the same affliction, but fortunately for me in my circles, this affliction became known as “schultzin’” not “rogersersin’”. I’m guessing this is because “schultzin’” rolls off the tongue a bit better, not because I sweat any less than Mark. It’s also a widely known fact that whenever I leave my name at a restaurant, I give the name “Schultz” rather than my own name. This stemmed from a time when I dined out many years ago with my friend Ted. When we couldn’t decide which of our names to give, we choose to give the name “Schultz” to the hostess. And why not give someone else’s name? It’s not like they ask to see your identification before they give you the table. In my world, small demonstrations of bucking societal trends like this bring me great joy. So if you have a problem with that, get over it.

#15 – "Photograph" by Nickelback: Nickelback strikes for the third time in the countdown. This time it’s with “Photograph” a second year song in the countdown which moves up 17 big spots from last year’s #32 debut position. I dedicate this one to Ted Sidoriak. For the past couple of years I’ve been promising Ted that I would bring out my photo album of pictures from our time in college. But each time I look for it in my attic, I come up empty. For now we’ll just have to rely on our memories, but someday soon I’ll track down that album and have it spread out on my bedroom floor soon. An interesting video version of this song, can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwfm65qzcfk

#16 – "Pretty Vegas" by INXS: The return of INXS in 2005 was a successful one. Led by their new lead singer, JD Fortune, they landed on the Jeff’s 35 Countdown in the number 34 position. This year the success continues as they move up a whopping 18 spots into the #16 position, making this song the “leaper of the year.” I dedicate this one to my good friend Steve Oliver. This song makes its appearance on Superbowl day. Of course we all know a lot of betting occurs on the Superbowl. A lot of betting also occurs in my fantasy football league, the ESFFL, thanks in part to my friend from Las Vegas, Chris Mertes. During the season, Chris provides prospective betters with weekly lines on the games and odds against winning the championship. Unfortunately, my friend Steve thinks it’s really me who sets the lines, and when he sees his Breckenridge Pinkslippers being disrespected by Chris the bookmaker, he takes it out on me. This has led to a strain in our friendship, and quite a rivalry both in the fantasy football arena, and at the poker table. By dedicating this song to you Steve, I am extending a peace offering. Please accept my sincerest congratulations on the Pinkslippers’ Consolation Bowl victory this past season. It was well deserved. By the way, Chris just called in the other night to inform me that the over/under on Steve Oliver ear flicks at the next poker night is 16. I’m thinking I’m going to have to go with the over. The video to this song can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uOTamucc-yQ

#17 – "Collide" by Howie Day: Moving up 3 spots from last year’s #20 debut position is this popular ballad by Howie Day from Bangor, Maine. Despite frequent airplay during 2005, I never grew tired of this song. I dedicate it to Bob Tomczak, majority owner of the New Castle County Tomcats of the Eastern States Fantasy Football League. Bob’s Tomcats collided with my Cecil County Bayfoxes three separate times during the 2006 ESFFL season. The Bayfoxes dominated the first two meetings, winning by scores of 105-66 and 106-86. But, when it mattered most, in the ESFFL playoffs, the Tomcats earned their revenge on the Bayfoxes by eliminating them from Fantasy Bowl contention with an 89-79 score. Two weeks later the Tomcats met the Mason-Dixon Chicks in Fantasy Bowl 00001101 but lost to the Chicks, who as you know from reading entry #24, are owned by my lovely wife Cindy. Congratulations to both Bob and Cindy on their Fantasy Bowl appearance. I’m sure there will be more collisions next season. The video to this song can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHCJqJEJcgA

#18 – "Hate Me" by Blue October: As tempting as it is to dedicate this song to Rod “He Hate Me” Smart, I’m not going to do it. His five minutes of fame has ended, and he’s no longer relevant in today’s pop culture. Instead, I dedicate it to Matt Castille, winner of the 2006 Appleton South Tour de France Fantasy League. I’m not sure what being in a Tour de France fantasy league says about me. Does it say that I’m a fantasy junkie that can’t make it through the fantasy football off-season without a fantasy diversion? Or does it say that I’m a cycling fanatic? It’s probably a combination of both. Anyway, I finished in second place in the league to Matt, who everyone ended up hating (in a jovial sense of course) since he was an intern. Perhaps a better song to dedicate to Matt would have been “Take the Money and Run.” Matt’s team was also comprised of several riders who later came under suspicion for doping, including tour winner Floyd Landis, and runner-up Oscar Pereiro. I credit Matt for his victory, but can’t help being a bit salty about losing my first round draft pick, Alejandro Valverde, who crashed out in an early stage. I can’t wait for this year’s tour to begin so I can get retribution. The video to this song can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOziJi-1hHE

#19 – "Rhythm Divine" by Enrique Iglesias: This song moves 10 spots in the wrong direction from last year’s #9 position. Ironically enough, it debuted in the #19 position in the Jeff’s 30 Countdown. It rose quickly up the charts and peaked at #2 in Jeff’s 33. Its rapid ascent was buoyed by Enrique’s live performance of the song on the Howard Stern show (back when Howard was on free radio). I dedicate this one to longtime Jeff’s Countdown fan, Christine Biscotti. Christine is one of a few fellow Enrique fans amongst my friends. Thanks for keeping in touch Christine; I hope you are enjoying the countdown.

#20 – "Over My Head (Cable Car)" by The Fray: Here is a Jeff’s Countdown debut song from a great new band from Denver, Colorado. I really like both the song and the video. I also like “How To Save A Life” as well, but chose not to include it in the countdown due to its ties to the show “Grey’s Anatomy.” I just don’t get that show. It is not surprising to see a debut song this high in the countdown. What is surprising is the fact that I’ve yet to include any discussions concerning my endeavors in Lunchtime Fast Eddie Rules Uno. That comes to an end here, as I dedicate this song to my former Uno alliance member, Bob Stearrett. Bob was a longtime member of the Jeff/Jim/Rob/Gianna Uno Alliance. He was a member in good standing until last summer when several critical errors and poor decisions led Jim and me to place him on Pre-Probation. Rather than play himself back into good standing within the alliance, Bob chose to leave the alliance to become a pseudo island. He’s not a true island because he tries to team up with anybody who will let him (Larry, Niki, Norman, the list goes on and on). Early on in his independent run Bob had great success. But recently, after returning from a several week stint on the Physically Unable to Perform list, Bob set a record by becoming the only person in the recorded history of Lunchtime Uno to be Nappy every single day of a week. It’s obvious that Bob is in “over his head” when it comes to playing Uno on his own. It’s clearly evident that Jim and I had carried him for such a long time, and now he is lost without us. With 8 cards left in overtime, it blows his mind, it blows his mind. The video to this song can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6HKQNAVr6u0

#21 – "Peace Frog" by The Doors: I believe this is the only song in this year’s countdown which is actually older than I am. It was written in the late 60’s and included on the Doors’ album “Morrison Hotel” which was released in 1970. This year “Peace Frog” makes its ninth appearance in the countdown. This is its second consecutive year at #21, which is its highest ever position. As always, I dedicate this one to the late Jim Earlis. Jim was a former roommate of mine while in college. He died several years ago in a tragic car accident. I always think of him when I hear this song, and remember back to the parties we had while living in the Widener Court Apartments. The other thing I remember about Jim was playing tennis with him. Fortunately he had a one-handed backhand which allowed him to hold the racquet in one hand and his cigarette in the other. Rest in peace, Jim. Here is a song for you from another Jim whose life was cut far too short as well. The video to this song can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbxIWBITQ6A

#22 – "Don’t Tell Me" by Madonna: This song drops 10 spots from the #12 position last year. With significant drops in each of the past two countdowns, Madonna’s quest to become the first female solo artist to reach the Top 5 in the Jeff’s Countdown appears to be over. The closest this song got was to #7 in Jeff’s 34. I dedicate this one to Justin Adger. After more than six years of working at Gore, I’m finally moving into a new position. Justin is taking over my old one as process engineer for Black Packing. Good luck, Justin. It was fun for me; I hope it is for you as well. The video to this song can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vviDGr3eCaQ

#23 – "Push" by Matchbox Twenty: We return to the countdown classics with this song which makes its tenth Jeff’s Countdown appearance. “Push” debuted in Jeff’s 27 at #14. After moving up to #11 the following year, it spent the next seven years in the 20’s, as it does once again this year. I dedicate this one to Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Brett Myers. Mr. Myers was arrested during the season last year for pushing around his wife. He missed several games because of it, perhaps costing the Phillies a playoff spot. Since my favorite baseball team is the White Sox, I can’t say I’m really bitter about it, as many Phillies fans are. But I would have liked to have seen the Phillies reach another World Series. Perhaps if Myers can keep his rage under control in 2007, the Phillies can contend again. The video to this song can be viewed on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsFQOJMHj8I

#24 – "Here It Goes Again" by OK GO: No other song in the history of music has made me want to go out and buy eight treadmills like this song has. The video to this song is simple, yet one of the most creative ever. If you haven’t seen the video, be sure to check out the YouTube reference below. I dedicate this song to the Mason-Dixon Chicks of the Eastern States Fantasy Football League. The Chicks won the coveted Johnson Cup this past season and are ESFFL champions for the second time four seasons. It was the third time in four seasons in which they played in the Fantasy Bowl (hence, here it goes again…). The Chicks are owned by my lovely wife Cindy. I’m still waiting for a thank you for referring her to Mike Furrey who turned out to be a fantasy stud in the second half of the season. As I mentioned earlier, you’ll want to check out the video to this song at the following YouTube address: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pv5zWaTEVkI

#25 – "Feelin’ Way Too Damn Good" by Nickelback: Let the onslaught of Nickelback songs continue. This offering, making its third consecutive appearance in the countdown, holds steady at #25 for the second straight year. I dedicate this one to all the fans of the Dallas Cowboys. You were all feeling way too damn good this past Thanksgiving when your so-called savior quarterback Tony Romo led the Cowboys past the Buccaneers, 38-10. But a couple weeks later came a 42-17 home loss to the Saints, and then 2 weeks later a second loss this season to the Eagles, and then finally, and most embarrassing of them all, a loss at home to the lowly Detroit Lions. Despite all this late season mediocrity, Cowboys fans were once again feeling way too damn good when all their team needed was a 19 yard field goal to advance in the playoffs. But then butterfingers Romo screwed up again and sent all the cockaroach Cowboys fans into the off-season. An off-season which has seen them lose their hall of fame coach, yet keep their cancer causing wide receiver. And poor Tony Romo sees Jessica Simpson choose John Mayer over him. Look on the bright side Cowboys fans… Maybe they’ll bring Dave Campo back. The video to this song can be viewed on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L15vCr4pqS8

#26 – "Waiting for You" by Seal: Seal becomes the first artist to strike gold twice in this year’s countdown. Following up on “Crazy” at #29 comes this favorite of mine which drops 4 spots from last year’s #22 position, in this its fourth year in the countdown. I dedicate this song to Damon Lindelof who is co-creator, executive producer, and lead writer for my favorite television show, “Lost.” As a fellow writer (for those of you who don’t know, I am a published poet and a former staff writer for the Ottawa Daily Times), I greatly appreciate the story telling skill Lindelof exemplifies in every intriguing episode of “Lost.” I don’t appreciate, however, the manner in which every week more questions about the island, the cast, and the plot are asked than are answered. And I certainly didn’t appreciate the waiting for season 3 to begin, and now the waiting for season 3 to resume. I need to know more about Benry and the other others. Does Juliette really dig Jack, or is it all just a cover? Will Alex ever meet Danielle, and does she know Danielle is her mother, and does she know she’s French? What the heck is up with the statue of the foot with 4 toes? Who is the father of Sun’s baby? Will we have to wait 9 months, (the equivalent of 9 seasons) to find out? Where the heck is Cindy the flight attendant? And why does no one seem to care that she disappeared? So many questions, so much waiting, waiting for you Damon. A schnippet of this video can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PMm-RHVj2d4&mode=related&search=

#27 – "Wonderwall" by Oasis: Following an eight year hiatus from the countdown, “Wonderwall” returned last year in the # 28 position. It moves up to #27 this year. It debuted in Jeff’s 26 at #23. I dedicate this song to my friend Chris Mertes. Chris recently shared his Top 42 with me, and this was the only song which spanned both the Chris’ 42 and the Jeff’s 36. That makes sense because it was Chris who initially turned me on to Oasis in the mid 90’s. Aside from Oasis, George Thorogood, and a few other artists, our musical tastes are quite different. But Oasis is a common thread for sure. They are also the closest thing to my favorite fictional band, Driveshaft. The video to “Wonderwall” can be viewed on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWco1s7GI9M&mode=related&search= The video to “You All Everybody” by Driveshaft can also be viewed on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfu4Gc9JavU&mode=related&search=

#28 – "Follow Through" by Gavin DeGraw: After debuting in the countdown last year, “Follow Through” returns one position higher this year. I dedicate this one to Chicago Bears’ head coach Lovie Smith. Lovie made a bold plan for his team following the regular season by creating an itinerary for his team to follow which extended to the day of the Superbowl. So much for the “one game at a time” approach. It sounded like bad karma to me, but Lovie and his team were able to “Follow Through,” and are now in the Superbowl. And congratulation for being the first African American head coach to reach the big game. Now please go beat up on that sissy of a quarterback Peyton Manning!

#29 – "Crazy" by Seal: This marks the 8^th consecutive year in the countdown for this song, and breaks a three year streak of it being stuck at #31. I dedicate this song to Dr. Harry Coover, the inventor of “Krazy Glue” then known as “super glue.” Krazy Glue has helped me fix many items over the years; most recently my newest pair of Nike’s which needed the treads re-glued. So thank you Dr. Coover for saving me 50 bucks for a new pair of shoes.

#30 – "Call Me When You’re Sober" by Evanescence: Personally, I thought they should have called this song “You only call me when you’re drunk” rather than “You never call me when you’re sober.” Granted this is semantics, but just think of all the great lyrics they could have made: You only call me when you’re drunk you friggin’ skunk… -or- You only call me when you’re drunk, and you are no bo-hunk, you friggin skunk… –or- You only call me when you’re drunk, so put away your junk, you friggin non-bo-hunk skunk… -or- You only call me when you’re drunk, if we were on a ship we’d be sunk your friggin’ non-bo-hunk skunk with tiny junk… the list goes on and on. Anyway, let me just say that this is a debut for Evanescence in the Jeff’s Countdown. So congratulations Amy Lee and company. Even though your title selection was sub-optimal, you still made the Jeff’s 36 Countdown. Oh, and I dedicate this one to Mel Gibson, the self-proclaimed owner of Malibu. Call the LAPD when you're sober dude. An acoustic version of this song can be viewed on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahTtAMeryTo&mode=related&search=

#31 – "Semi-Charmed Life" by Third Eye Blind: Celebrating its tenth appearance in the Jeff’s Countdown, “Semi-Charmed Life” slides down 8 spots into the 31 slot. After debuting at #11 in Jeff’s 27, this song slowly climbed the countdown ladder and peaked at #5 in Jeff’s 31. Since then, it has slowly backed its way down the countdown ranks. I dedicate this one to the late Aaron Spelling who passed away at the age of 83 last year. Although best known as the executive producer of the hit television show “Beverly Hills 90210,” he also of course produced the hit “Charmed.” And you could say his life was certainly was a charmed one, however I’d say it was only “semi” charmed because he did have to put up with Tori during his last 30 or so years. The video to this song can be viewed on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jRMHbKW0w7k

#32 – "Far Away" by Nickelback: Let the onslaught of Nickelback songs begin. This group has definitely won me over. There is no doubt they are my favorite band. Purely platonically, I dedicate this one to my good friend Lisa Rizzo in honor of her 36^th birthday today (January 19). That’s right, another one of my friends turning 36 before I do. Since Lisa lives in North Carolina, I haven’t seen her is several years. She’s been “far away for far too long.” Here’s hoping we can get together again sometime soon. The video to this song can be viewed on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zno4hMB8rn0

#33 – "Peaches" by Presidents of the United States of America: The presidents are one of my favorite bands. They put out great music with great lyrics. “Peaches” makes its second appearance in the Jeff’s Countdown, moving up 2 spots from last year’s debut position. I dedicate this one to my good friend Jim Sullivan. I dedicate it to him for his deep affection for peach nectar martinis. Yes, the peach nectar martini, just a small step up from the Shirley Temple. It was on a recent work outing to Pottsville, Pennsylvania where Jim demonstrated his love for peach nectar by ordering the peach martini at Amato’s restaurant in Schuylkill Haven. And yes, I do believe I saw him lift the glass with pinky finger extended. I still hold out hope that Jim will someday man up and grab a cold Yuengling. In the meantime, this one’s for you Jim. The video to this song can be viewed on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7IxqnOwdt0

#34 – "Drift & Die" by Puddle of Mudd: This song makes its fifth Jeff’s Countdown appearance. It debuted at #17 in Jeff’s 32, worked its way up the countdown peaking at #13 in Jeff’s 34, before slipping into the #19 slot last year. After haven been dedicated twice to the astronauts in the space shuttle Columbia, once to Janet Jackson and her “drifting” right breast, and once to the victims of the Indian Ocean tsunami, it appeared this song’s run in the countdown might have been over. But then along came Cory Lidle and his aimlessly drifting Cirrus CR22 aircraft, which eventually crashed into a high rise condominium on New York City’s East Side. As soon as I saw the smoke rising from that building on Sportscenter I knew this song had to return to the countdown with a dedication to the late Cory Lidle. So here it is in the #34 slot to memorialize Lidle’s 34 years of life. The video to this song can be viewed on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8eo6P4hsTn4

#35 – "Dani California" by Red Hot Chili Peppers: The Chili Peppers make their Jeff’s Countdown debut with this Tom Pettyish ditty. I love the video for this song which satirizes the many genres of music from the Elvis era to the 90’s grunge period. This song was released last year at about the same time my daughter Danielle was born. So, I dedicate this song to my six-month old daughter Danielle, or as I refer to her, “Dani Cecil County.” Cecil County born and bred, red strawberry on her head. Cecil County born and bred, she’s not happy till she’s fed.

#36 – "The Distance" by Cake: To begin this celebration of 3 dozen years of life, I kick off the countdown with this favorite from the 90’s Post Modern Era, a debut song in this year’s countdown. It wasn’t a favorite of mine at the time, but after hearing it while playing poker at a Greater Oxford Poker Tour event last year; I fell in love with it, downloaded it, and played it in my iTunes rotation ad nauseam. For me, it represents an attitude. If something is worth doing, it is worth doing right; it is worth going the distance. As I reach the midpoint of my life I look back on my past and I look forward into the future and affirm to myself that I will be “going the distance.” I dedicate this one to Sylvester Stallone. The writer of and lead actor in my favorite film hexalogy, his character Rocky returned this past fall to go the distance against Mason Dixon, like he did so many years ago against Apollo Creed. At least I assume he went the distance in his latest fight. I still haven’t seen a movie in the theatre since I saw “Titanic” in 1997, almost ten years ago. Perhaps “Rocky Balboa” will be the film which will break my movie going hiatus. Or perhaps it will be on DVD soon enough to keep the streak going, perhaps this streak will “go the distance.” The video to this song can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HoDryA180Y