Foody Almanac : Are you a pie or pastie person?

Peter Baulderstone launches (lunches?) into the Foody Almanac with the origins of his love for pasties. Who would have thought that footy, childhood and sex would be at the root of our food fancies. Are you a pie or a pastie person?

2015 ICC World Cup : When Greatbatch Went Gonzo

As Australia and New Zealand get set to clash at Eden Park in the Cricket World Cup pool matches this weekend, ESPN’s Cricinfo takes us on a trip down memory lane and profiles a big hitting Kiwi who gave the Aussies no shortage of headaches in trans-Tasman cricket: Mark Greatbatch.

NTFL Finals Week One Wrap-Up

It’s the best footy you’re likely not to have seen (unless you live in the Northern Territory, of course). it’s week one of the NTFL finals and Jackson Clarke brings you the wrap-up on one of the most exciting competitions in the country.

Not waiting for Bruce. Phew!

So you think anticipating a Bruce Springsteen concert might be fun? Something to be savoured? Hugh Jones has news for you.

Crio’s Question: Secret Stardom?

Crio follows his cricket as closely as his racing. He was shocked to find that the West Indies captain at the World Cup is someone he’s never heard of. Who else has reached lofty heights before you even noticed them?

Seasons in the Sun (Part Eighteen) : Discipline, Patience and Nurofen – In That Order

It’s the Benevolent Leader’s birthday as the Lower Plenty Thirds clash with Eltham in the hopes of securing a finals spot. Preparations for a time honoured tradition – Old Man Cafè – begin, and does the ‘Vets bus’ give the opposition some unwanted ammunition?

Literary Dinner (Feb 26): Anson Cameron and The Last Pulse

Join us for dinner with author, Anson Cameron as he talks about writing and his latest book The Last Pulse. Bookings essential.

Richo (yes, THE Richo) is at East Coburg CC Thursday night

Richmond-lovers and lovers of the great man, Richo is live at East Coburg. Will be huge.

All welcome.

Almanac Cinema: Extreme Whiplash

Nominated for Oscars across a range of categories at today’s 87th Academy Awards, Steve Baker has his fingers crossed for his favourite film of 2014 – Damien Chazelle’s Whiplash

Little Local Larrikins – Part Two: The Long Awaited Conversation

On what turns out to be a blisteringly hot Saturday, Sean Mortell and his Eltham Tennis Club teammates clash with St John’s Catholic on the hallowed en-tout-cas of Banyule. Leading 5-4 in the deciding set, it’s up to Sean to serve for the match and a win for Eltham.

Mayweather v Pacquiao – May 2, 2015: Right here! Right now!

The fight the world has been waiting for is scheduled for May 2. Gregor Lewis puts into a sporting context (by referring to the Seattle Seahawks) and a boxing context.

Almanac Music (Stereo Stories): Sooner or later one of us must know

Brian Nankervis’s touching and thought-provoking story written at the time his family were making arrangements for his dear father’s funeral. What would Bob Dylan have said?

Too Few are Flipping Father Time the Finger

A fantastic and thought-provoking piece from Jeff Dowsing: Why do we instantly write-off sportspeople when they hit the big 3-0? If you’re good enough, play on, argues Jeff.

Cricket-Nomics – the Economics of Cricket World Cup

Tim Harcourt looks at the economic impact of the ICC World Cup. [An important academic discipline, from the Airport Economist – JTH]

ICC World Cup 2015 – New Zealand v England: Who is Partying after the Match?

For all of the words you’ll read about England’s humiliating defeat at the hands of the New Zealand Black Caps in their World Cup match in Wellington yesterday, none will highlight their capitulation as starkly as this rookie cricket fan’s view of the match. “From the mouth of [cricketing] babes…”

Kayne Calls for DRS at the Grammys

Imagine if Awards ceremonies allowed DRS. Peter Zitterschlager pictures Kanye West taking issue with Beck at this year’s Grammy Awards recently and plays third umpire on the referral. [Harsh, but fair. – Ed]

Beau Waters denouement

Beau Waters retired yesterday after 120 games over 12 seasons. Peter Baulderstone pays tribute to his favourite current day footballer. A good footballer but an off-field champ.

Almanac Weekend Reading : February 20-22

Another weekend, and another series of readings for your consideration from The Footy Almanac.

Almanac Art : Sunday Morning

Kate Birrell contemplates the world (pre-game) on a Sunday morning

A-League Week 18 Preview – The Falling Over Edition

As the race to the title begins to get serious, Hamish Neal takes a look at this weekend’s action in the A-League.