It is a time when families gather together. A time when enemies forget their troubles and shake hands. A time when dogs and cats live together, and it is not total anarchy. Friends, it is the time of year for buffalo wings, and a little something I like to call, “THE WINGDOM CHALLENGE!”

Who among us is willing to muster the courage and strength to challenge me this Sunday to the ultimate in competitive eating challenges? Who will hunker down the $20-$40 worth of sweet, sweet chicken parts to consume with me in a winner-take-all (i.e. the title of Wing Commander) poultry eating extravaganza?

Will anyone be able to break my record of 42 wings consumed in one half hour? I think not! All those who have tried (BCox) have run home crying.

Welcome to the big leagues kids. Time to sack up and see what you’re made of.

I’m made of buffalo chicken wings.

Twenty-eight year old actor Heath Ledger was found dead Tuesday in his Manhattan apartment from a possible drug overdose. Ledger may be best known for his work in the 2005 romantic drama film Brokeback Mountain, where he earned himself newfound respect as a talented performer instead of just another pretty Hollywood face.

Although well-known actor and crazy person Mel Gibson expressed grief over the tragedy this week, he had actually distanced himself from the younger Australian actor in the years since Ledger disregarded his advice against taking the role as a gay cowboy. According to the New York Daily News, Gibson strongly counseled against the part since it apparently conflicts with his morality. He felt that it would ruin Ledger’s career. Need less to say, the film went on to win critical acclaim, three Academy Awards, and an Oscar nomination for Ledger.

Does Mel Gibson realize that he is not, in fact, Heath Ledger’s actual father? Of course, Ledger played the role of Crazy’s son in The Patriot, but that doesn’t mean Gibson should go around babbling advice to the poor guy on the basis of his flawed religious views in hopes of creating an identical clone of himself. I know Mel Gibson’s been an actor for quite some time now, but I’m just not sure he understands the whole reality vs. fantasy concept.

Plus, there’s also the issue of how there’s absolutely nothing wrong with being gay. Brokeback was as brilliant as it was ground-breaking, and I am grateful to Heath Ledger and his co-stars for portraying the characters so sincerely.

RIP, Heath.