Billionaire Soros takes on Bush: Ousting president 'central focus of my life,' he says
You and me both, pal.
Tuesday, November 11, 2003
Good to See
Matthew Perry Returns to 'West Wing'
It's good to see the show get good press. Check out this list of ten things critics like about the post-Sorkin show.
It's good to see the show get good press. Check out this list of ten things critics like about the post-Sorkin show.
Comments
Something is wrong with the comment server today, so comments been temporarily suspended to allow the rest of the site to load properly. I'll bring them back as soon as possible so you can all get back to telling me how wrong I am.
Monday, November 10, 2003
Sign Here, Please
Sign the Petition
I don't ask for much, but if you could sign the petition above, that'd be great. Thanks.
I don't ask for much, but if you could sign the petition above, that'd be great. Thanks.
So Much Sadness
Monarch Butterfly May Face Climate Threat
Get ready for more news like this. It's one thing to cause the demise of our own environs--global warming is slowly but surely sinking coastal cities like New Orleans--and quite another to wreak havoc on other species.
Get ready for more news like this. It's one thing to cause the demise of our own environs--global warming is slowly but surely sinking coastal cities like New Orleans--and quite another to wreak havoc on other species.
Back to Dean
Chicago Tribune | Appeal to South cuts across race
Well, our boy went and decided to keep fundraising for the rest of the primary season, which means I can't stop talking about him just yet. The link above will lead you to another interesting take on Dean's remark heard round the world, this time from a black columnist who has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for commentary. This wasn't Dean's first use of the flag as a symbol, but it's interesting to see how different the reactions are now that he's the frontrunner.
Also interesting is Paul Krugman's take on this.
Well, our boy went and decided to keep fundraising for the rest of the primary season, which means I can't stop talking about him just yet. The link above will lead you to another interesting take on Dean's remark heard round the world, this time from a black columnist who has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for commentary. This wasn't Dean's first use of the flag as a symbol, but it's interesting to see how different the reactions are now that he's the frontrunner.
Also interesting is Paul Krugman's take on this.
Sunday, November 09, 2003
Old Men and Young Women
Not a Womb In the House
No, this isn't about the latest Richard Gere movie. It's more on our theme: why do old men feel qualified to decide what young women can do? Enjoy.
No, this isn't about the latest Richard Gere movie. It's more on our theme: why do old men feel qualified to decide what young women can do? Enjoy.
Friday, November 07, 2003
Don't I Feel Smart
Image of Men Signing Abortion Ban Assailed
Today Nancy Pelosi, Democratic leader in the House of Representatives, made the same point I made yesterday about the signing ceremony for the partial-birth abortion bill. This could turn out to be the perfect year to finally have a woman as the face of the Democratic party in Congress.
Here's a quote from the article that I hope presages some aggressive campaigning:
NARAL Pro-Choice America put the photo of Bush with male lawmakers on the home page of its Web site. The group's communications director, David Seldin, e-mailed the Internet link to reporters Friday under the subject line, "A Picture for the Ages."
"If we had the money we'd put it on TV every day from now till the election," Seldin said in the e-mail.
Today Nancy Pelosi, Democratic leader in the House of Representatives, made the same point I made yesterday about the signing ceremony for the partial-birth abortion bill. This could turn out to be the perfect year to finally have a woman as the face of the Democratic party in Congress.
Here's a quote from the article that I hope presages some aggressive campaigning:
NARAL Pro-Choice America put the photo of Bush with male lawmakers on the home page of its Web site. The group's communications director, David Seldin, e-mailed the Internet link to reporters Friday under the subject line, "A Picture for the Ages."
"If we had the money we'd put it on TV every day from now till the election," Seldin said in the e-mail.
Thursday, November 06, 2003
Wrong Symbol, Right Idea
Dean still holds a strong hand
This is a pretty decent analysis of the fallout from Dean's Confederate remark. To reiterate here what's been going on in a comment brush fire for a few days now, I don't think Dean was right to use that symbol to represent the voters that he, rightly, hopes to bring into his column for 2004. As he said, he doesn't understand why white Southern voters who make less than $25,000 a year "keep voting Republican against their own economic interests."
It's unfortunate that he made the remark, but even more unfortunate that he could make it and people would know exactly what he meant. The reason why this remains an issue is that the Republicans have been flying the rebel flag for years to sucker these very same poor white Southerners into "sticking with their own color" come Election Day. When people are done casting stones at Dean, and he wins the nomination anyway, I hope they'll pick up some bigger rocks to throw at the GOP's cynical strategy and the people behind it.
This is a pretty decent analysis of the fallout from Dean's Confederate remark. To reiterate here what's been going on in a comment brush fire for a few days now, I don't think Dean was right to use that symbol to represent the voters that he, rightly, hopes to bring into his column for 2004. As he said, he doesn't understand why white Southern voters who make less than $25,000 a year "keep voting Republican against their own economic interests."
It's unfortunate that he made the remark, but even more unfortunate that he could make it and people would know exactly what he meant. The reason why this remains an issue is that the Republicans have been flying the rebel flag for years to sucker these very same poor white Southerners into "sticking with their own color" come Election Day. When people are done casting stones at Dean, and he wins the nomination anyway, I hope they'll pick up some bigger rocks to throw at the GOP's cynical strategy and the people behind it.
That Makes Sense
Bush Signs Anti-Abortion Bill
Yeah, these are definitely the people who should decide what a woman can and can't do.
Is it just me, or does Bush look fake in this picture?
Yeah, these are definitely the people who should decide what a woman can and can't do.
Is it just me, or does Bush look fake in this picture?
Wednesday, November 05, 2003
Riding the Bench
There were several good developments on tonight's so-so episode. To wit:
--Sam--Sam!--called to tell Josh to "roll with the punches." Could it be? Are the writers actually acknowledging the existence of characters AFTER they leave the show?
--Will is doing a good job in his new post and Leo took the time to notice--in between rants.
--Donna totally gets Josh. She ran interference for him throughout the episode, protecting his ego and his image. Who else would have found a way to make Ryan useful by sending him as a backup dinner mate? And at the end, there was a reason why they played that stirring music--Donna had found the way to help Josh recover. She stood by him and showed him the way that he can still be useful and do something meaningful, even as he's being benched. That rainy day file of hers will save his life. But no, she's not on the right level for him to love her, right? Amy would have slept with him--at best. And while I don't dispute the therapeutic benefits that might have had, Donna's contribution was far more important and long-term.
--Charlie finally got more lines! Oh, wait--that was in the disaster relief PSA after the show. And even there he got the least lines among the three of them. "Three," by the way, was one of the inspired sentences Dule Hill got to deliver tonight. To his credit, he did it well.
--CJ told the President he needs to get back to leading. If only she would have added, "Because I'm sick of listening to cranky old Leo scream and shout and bench Josh when he authorized the strategy with Carrick and maybe he needs a vacation and maybe we need a vacation from him so please, please, Mr. President, lead again and stop letting him run the White House and the country. I'm scared--of him."
--Amy did what she should do on the show--she called on the phone and didn't appear.
--Bingo Bob made a nice save at the meeting with the Congressional folks. He knew the right tone and language to use. Maybe he can be helpful after all?
And the bad? Abby is still gone. Danny is still gone. Fitz is gone for good. They haven't hung the French guy in the Rose Garden yet for letting Zoey's drink get spiked. No one knows how Zoey was found. And the writing still stutters at times. But I care about the plot. So it's going OK. Keep it up, Johnny.
--Sam--Sam!--called to tell Josh to "roll with the punches." Could it be? Are the writers actually acknowledging the existence of characters AFTER they leave the show?
--Will is doing a good job in his new post and Leo took the time to notice--in between rants.
--Donna totally gets Josh. She ran interference for him throughout the episode, protecting his ego and his image. Who else would have found a way to make Ryan useful by sending him as a backup dinner mate? And at the end, there was a reason why they played that stirring music--Donna had found the way to help Josh recover. She stood by him and showed him the way that he can still be useful and do something meaningful, even as he's being benched. That rainy day file of hers will save his life. But no, she's not on the right level for him to love her, right? Amy would have slept with him--at best. And while I don't dispute the therapeutic benefits that might have had, Donna's contribution was far more important and long-term.
--Charlie finally got more lines! Oh, wait--that was in the disaster relief PSA after the show. And even there he got the least lines among the three of them. "Three," by the way, was one of the inspired sentences Dule Hill got to deliver tonight. To his credit, he did it well.
--CJ told the President he needs to get back to leading. If only she would have added, "Because I'm sick of listening to cranky old Leo scream and shout and bench Josh when he authorized the strategy with Carrick and maybe he needs a vacation and maybe we need a vacation from him so please, please, Mr. President, lead again and stop letting him run the White House and the country. I'm scared--of him."
--Amy did what she should do on the show--she called on the phone and didn't appear.
--Bingo Bob made a nice save at the meeting with the Congressional folks. He knew the right tone and language to use. Maybe he can be helpful after all?
And the bad? Abby is still gone. Danny is still gone. Fitz is gone for good. They haven't hung the French guy in the Rose Garden yet for letting Zoey's drink get spiked. No one knows how Zoey was found. And the writing still stutters at times. But I care about the plot. So it's going OK. Keep it up, Johnny.
Tuesday, November 04, 2003
Unstoppable
Rivals Seek to Block Dean Endorsement
It's starting to look desperate for any Democrat who isn't named Dean. You know you've got your opponents scared when three of the prominent candidates running against you team up to thwart you. Edwards, Kerry, and especially Gephardt have good reason, though: if Dean gets the endorsement of a labor union with 1.6 million members, he'll have all the troops on the ground he needs to take on all comers. And Gephardt's union man strategy will inevitably fail.
I predict this: it doesn't matter whether they stop the endorsement or not. The SEIU has already indicated that they'll endorse Dean or nobody, and that tells you everything. This is Howard's race to lose. If he avoids a major gaffe--like the Confederate flag episode could have been--he'll cruise.
Speaking of the flag incident--in which Dean said he wants to bring Democrats who still have Confederate flags on their trucks back to the party--I understand the sentiment, but have to agree with Gephardt's chiding of Dean. Nevertheless...this is an election that needs to be won, and that will mean winning at least one Southern state. Unfortunately, you can't do that without getting at least a few guys with a rebel flag on their pick-up to vote for you.
Couldn't we have just let the South go? If it weren't for the whole slavery thing, which clearly had to be stopped, I'd be tempted to see what the world would look like if the Confederacy was its own nation. The remaining United States would be a very different, much more liberal country. Oh, the capital might have to move--DC would be on the border--and we'd have to import more cotton and oil without the fields of Texas to supply us. You know what? It just might be worth it.
It's starting to look desperate for any Democrat who isn't named Dean. You know you've got your opponents scared when three of the prominent candidates running against you team up to thwart you. Edwards, Kerry, and especially Gephardt have good reason, though: if Dean gets the endorsement of a labor union with 1.6 million members, he'll have all the troops on the ground he needs to take on all comers. And Gephardt's union man strategy will inevitably fail.
I predict this: it doesn't matter whether they stop the endorsement or not. The SEIU has already indicated that they'll endorse Dean or nobody, and that tells you everything. This is Howard's race to lose. If he avoids a major gaffe--like the Confederate flag episode could have been--he'll cruise.
Speaking of the flag incident--in which Dean said he wants to bring Democrats who still have Confederate flags on their trucks back to the party--I understand the sentiment, but have to agree with Gephardt's chiding of Dean. Nevertheless...this is an election that needs to be won, and that will mean winning at least one Southern state. Unfortunately, you can't do that without getting at least a few guys with a rebel flag on their pick-up to vote for you.
Couldn't we have just let the South go? If it weren't for the whole slavery thing, which clearly had to be stopped, I'd be tempted to see what the world would look like if the Confederacy was its own nation. The remaining United States would be a very different, much more liberal country. Oh, the capital might have to move--DC would be on the border--and we'd have to import more cotton and oil without the fields of Texas to supply us. You know what? It just might be worth it.
Six Percent More...
More Voters Deciding Not to Support Bush
44% of voters say they plan to vote against Bush a year from now. That's a big number in a poll that still has a lot of uncertainty in it, including an opponent. That's 44% who don't know who they'd be voting for and still prefer that person to Bush.
And it's six percent more than the people who plan to vote FOR Bush. Which is, in electoral terms, a landslide.
Bush still leads when faced off with a candidate, but that will change: most people still don't know who the Democratic candidates are. There's still a year to get to know them.
Bush had better hope he can find a solution to Iraq soon. If another helicopter gets shot down this time next year, his political career--still only a dozen or so years old--is over.
44% of voters say they plan to vote against Bush a year from now. That's a big number in a poll that still has a lot of uncertainty in it, including an opponent. That's 44% who don't know who they'd be voting for and still prefer that person to Bush.
And it's six percent more than the people who plan to vote FOR Bush. Which is, in electoral terms, a landslide.
Bush still leads when faced off with a candidate, but that will change: most people still don't know who the Democratic candidates are. There's still a year to get to know them.
Bush had better hope he can find a solution to Iraq soon. If another helicopter gets shot down this time next year, his political career--still only a dozen or so years old--is over.
Finally
Stephen King Finishes 'Dark Tower' Series
At long last, I can pick up and finish the fourth book in King's very good, and long overdue, Dark Tower series. A year from now, he says, he'll have published all seven books.
At long last, I can pick up and finish the fourth book in King's very good, and long overdue, Dark Tower series. A year from now, he says, he'll have published all seven books.
Monday, November 03, 2003
Fixed
By the way, the archives are back to normal. If you're put off by what I'm posting today, you can go back and revel in the glory of my August posts...when I had nothing to do but blog. What a time it was...
Unwelcome News
A few weeks ago I was pleased to hear that Bob Graham of Florida had chosen to leave the race for the Democratic nomination. Today's news is not cause for the same sort of celebration.
Graham's departure from the Senate next year leaves another open seat for Democrats to defend without the benefits of incumbency. More importantly, it strips the Senate of another reasonable voice.
Next year's elections are looking more and more critical. If the GOP extends its margin in the Senate and Bush retains the presidency, the impact on tax laws, the environment, Social Security, and the future of the Supreme Court will be catastrophic. It doesn't look good...
Graham's departure from the Senate next year leaves another open seat for Democrats to defend without the benefits of incumbency. More importantly, it strips the Senate of another reasonable voice.
Next year's elections are looking more and more critical. If the GOP extends its margin in the Senate and Bush retains the presidency, the impact on tax laws, the environment, Social Security, and the future of the Supreme Court will be catastrophic. It doesn't look good...
Sunday, November 02, 2003
Time to Confess
grouphug.us // let it all out
This is a fascinating little site. Take a look.
And no, I haven't posted any confessions, so don't go trying to guess which one is mine.
This is a fascinating little site. Take a look.
And no, I haven't posted any confessions, so don't go trying to guess which one is mine.
I've Found It
Welcome to History 2.0
This article is an interesting take on something that hasn't gotten that much attention yet--Amazon's new and remarkable "search within the book" technology. As Steven Levy points out, the digitization of more and more published works makes it easier and easier for researchers to find what they're looking for--and do it fast. For someone who's seeking sources of information for an article or research paper, for example, the search process will be shortened even further than it was by the advent of online periodical databases.
Levy's right: this small step for Amazon is the start of something major for the way we as a culture think about information.
This article is an interesting take on something that hasn't gotten that much attention yet--Amazon's new and remarkable "search within the book" technology. As Steven Levy points out, the digitization of more and more published works makes it easier and easier for researchers to find what they're looking for--and do it fast. For someone who's seeking sources of information for an article or research paper, for example, the search process will be shortened even further than it was by the advent of online periodical databases.
Levy's right: this small step for Amazon is the start of something major for the way we as a culture think about information.
Saturday, November 01, 2003
290BOOKS
The structure for 290BOOKS is complete (for now), and includes a rolling list of the books I've read over the past year. If you'd like to hear about one in particular, please let me know.
A Note on the Archives
There is apparently a problem with the archives right now. Hopefully Blogger will fix it soon. In the meantime, you're stuck with the current content.
Well Isn't That Odd
Gay rodeo rounds up new sponsors
I had no idea there was such a thing as the International Gay Rodeo Association. What's next? Gay marriage?
I had no idea there was such a thing as the International Gay Rodeo Association. What's next? Gay marriage?
Friday, October 31, 2003
A Whole New 290 World
The crash earlier today, and Paul's new blog, got me thinking about the way this site is set up. So, you'll notice that the links to the side are a little different. Eventually Highway 290 Revisited will be the home page for a cluster of 290 sites (sites related to this one, not two-hundred and ninety different sites).
Isn't it sickening how much energy I have after my first week of work in four months? I'm sure it will wear off soon.
Isn't it sickening how much energy I have after my first week of work in four months? I'm sure it will wear off soon.
Something Bad...
My old template just died. I don't know why. Enjoy this weird thing until I can fix the real one again over the weekend.
Headed Home
Tonight after work I get to return to a house rather than a hotel. We don't have mold in our house; the air ducts are being cleaned today and all should be well.
This means that I get to give away the massive bag of candy in our pantry to neighborhood children rather than eating the whole thing over the weekend. Happy Halloween!
This means that I get to give away the massive bag of candy in our pantry to neighborhood children rather than eating the whole thing over the weekend. Happy Halloween!
Thursday, October 30, 2003
That Was An Improvement
Last night's episode was far better than the previews would indicate, which makes me think NBC is promoting the show in an attempt to win a new fan base while trying, somewhat, to maintain the things that current fans enjoy while assuming they'll tune in. I have to admit, grudgingly, that this is a pretty good strategy.
I still don't like that Leo is turning into Mr. Evil. The "Us against the rest" feel of the principal cast is being put aside for some pretty serious rancor. I thought CJ was going to scream at Leo, and Will practically did shout at Toby before he decided to work for Bingo Bob. (I wonder what that choice means for Josh Malina's role on the show?)
Anyone who's paid attention knows what I liked the most, though: Amy left, and that's got to be a good thing. I especially liked how selfless Donna was: she was obvious about her feelings for Josh when she told him how good he looked, but she also tried to get him to treat Amy well and didn't nag him about his birthday. The writers remembered the promise Sorkin made last year when he put the words, "You've got to get Josh" in Donna's mouth--she's the one who gets him, both in the mental sense and, eventually, the romantic one.
Let's just hope Josh can dig himself out of the very Sorkin-esque mess he's in--I think his problems with the Idaho senator were the thing that made this episode enjoyable. The juxtaposition at the end--huge failure and happy birthday--was the kind of thing I would have expected in season two. Credit is due: good work, Mr. Wells.
Now, please don't make the rest of sweeps month revolve around a tornado.
I still don't like that Leo is turning into Mr. Evil. The "Us against the rest" feel of the principal cast is being put aside for some pretty serious rancor. I thought CJ was going to scream at Leo, and Will practically did shout at Toby before he decided to work for Bingo Bob. (I wonder what that choice means for Josh Malina's role on the show?)
Anyone who's paid attention knows what I liked the most, though: Amy left, and that's got to be a good thing. I especially liked how selfless Donna was: she was obvious about her feelings for Josh when she told him how good he looked, but she also tried to get him to treat Amy well and didn't nag him about his birthday. The writers remembered the promise Sorkin made last year when he put the words, "You've got to get Josh" in Donna's mouth--she's the one who gets him, both in the mental sense and, eventually, the romantic one.
Let's just hope Josh can dig himself out of the very Sorkin-esque mess he's in--I think his problems with the Idaho senator were the thing that made this episode enjoyable. The juxtaposition at the end--huge failure and happy birthday--was the kind of thing I would have expected in season two. Credit is due: good work, Mr. Wells.
Now, please don't make the rest of sweeps month revolve around a tornado.
Let's Hope He's Electable...
Howard Dean looks like he'll be picking up a big endorsement this week. That will really hurt Gephardt, who I was starting to consider the number 2 candidate in the race. Clark or Kerry have a chance to make a move--now.
A year from now there will be mere days until the election.
A year from now there will be mere days until the election.
Wednesday, October 29, 2003
Blasphemy
The Onion | Pope John Paul II: 25 Years Of Laughs
I don't post from the Onion very often, but I didn't say anything when the Pope marked his 25th anniversary. He deserves some recognition for doing at least as much harm as good over the last quarter century by standing in the way of progress, encouraging the maintenance of stereotypes, and preventing millions of people around the world from seeking contraception that could help reduce population problems and begin the move toward equality for women in developing nations.
But God will tell him when to step down. Perhaps with a lightning bolt?
I don't post from the Onion very often, but I didn't say anything when the Pope marked his 25th anniversary. He deserves some recognition for doing at least as much harm as good over the last quarter century by standing in the way of progress, encouraging the maintenance of stereotypes, and preventing millions of people around the world from seeking contraception that could help reduce population problems and begin the move toward equality for women in developing nations.
But God will tell him when to step down. Perhaps with a lightning bolt?
Just in Time
If you look to the right at the new music list, you'll realize that I found employment just in time to maintain my compulsive CD-buying habit. Suddenly picking the top albums of 2003 is looking a little bit trickier...
The new R.E.M. is great even if you're not a lifelong fan. Except for "Shiny Happy People," it's got everything you'll want from the last 15 years. Cough up the extra 4 bucks and get the special edition with the rarities disc. It's mostly songs you've heard before performed live or in a different version, and worth the money.
I'll have to listen to The Strokes a few more times to judge it fairly. Right now it's hard to tell if they've done anything at all different. I wish they would have continued working with Nigel Godrich (producer for Radiohead and two Beck albums). Oh well...
The new R.E.M. is great even if you're not a lifelong fan. Except for "Shiny Happy People," it's got everything you'll want from the last 15 years. Cough up the extra 4 bucks and get the special edition with the rarities disc. It's mostly songs you've heard before performed live or in a different version, and worth the money.
I'll have to listen to The Strokes a few more times to judge it fairly. Right now it's hard to tell if they've done anything at all different. I wish they would have continued working with Nigel Godrich (producer for Radiohead and two Beck albums). Oh well...
Tuesday, October 28, 2003
Go See It
See it. That's all I want to say about Mystic River , one of the best movies I've seen in a long time. There's a reason why you haven't seen a bad review...
Monday, October 27, 2003
Worth the Wait
I just finished my first day at the AAD. (In fact, I'm still here as I type this because I go home to the internetless hotel when I finish typing.) What a great day! I learned about the benefits of my job, which are myriad and include, for some reason, discounts at Woodfield. When I got upstairs, I found even better news: my cubicle wasn't a cubicle.
It was an office! Complete with a door, two desks (one for writing, reading, and meetings, and one for typing), and as much space as my boss had at my last job. (I'm not counting the two-day interlude at IPA.) The euphoria from this will probably propel me through at least Christmas.
It helps that the people are very nice; I was taken to lunch and people have been stopping by as I type this to say goodnight and ask how I enjoyed my first day. I can hardly contain my excitement. (I realize as I write this that it sounds like a letter Josh Malina would have written on Sports Night.)
In retrospect, the stop at IPA was a very good thing. It showed me what I want in a job and made me far more committed to getting this one. Quitting IPA was an even better thing; if I had stayed one more day I wouldn't have taken the call or scheduled the interview that got me this job. Sometimes things really do happen for a reason.
It was an office! Complete with a door, two desks (one for writing, reading, and meetings, and one for typing), and as much space as my boss had at my last job. (I'm not counting the two-day interlude at IPA.) The euphoria from this will probably propel me through at least Christmas.
It helps that the people are very nice; I was taken to lunch and people have been stopping by as I type this to say goodnight and ask how I enjoyed my first day. I can hardly contain my excitement. (I realize as I write this that it sounds like a letter Josh Malina would have written on Sports Night.)
In retrospect, the stop at IPA was a very good thing. It showed me what I want in a job and made me far more committed to getting this one. Quitting IPA was an even better thing; if I had stayed one more day I wouldn't have taken the call or scheduled the interview that got me this job. Sometimes things really do happen for a reason.
Sunday, October 26, 2003
But Before I Go
A better reason to hate Bush
Chew on this for a while.
If you don't hate Bush when you're done, chew again.
If you don't hate Bush after that...
You're as illogical and foolish as he is.
Chew on this for a while.
If you don't hate Bush when you're done, chew again.
If you don't hate Bush after that...
You're as illogical and foolish as he is.
Livin La Vida Quinta
I'm home right now battling with a washing machine that won't spin out the water at the end of the cycle in a house whose temperature has dropped below 60 degrees because the heat is off while we're not living here. Oh, and it smells like the ducts haven't been cleaned yet.
So I'm posting this to explain that you won't be seeing quite so many updates from me this week, partly because I start my new job tomorrow and partly because I'll be going home to a hotel. Which, by the way, is about the last thing you want to do at the end of the day. Did I mention they have an outdoor pool?
Wish me luck on my "business trip" to Schaumburg!
So I'm posting this to explain that you won't be seeing quite so many updates from me this week, partly because I start my new job tomorrow and partly because I'll be going home to a hotel. Which, by the way, is about the last thing you want to do at the end of the day. Did I mention they have an outdoor pool?
Wish me luck on my "business trip" to Schaumburg!
Friday, October 24, 2003
Get Lost
Lost in Translation
What a film. I think this was the first time I've cared about the characters in a movie, and felt empathy with them, in a while. Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson give amazing performances. And the feel of the film drags you into the characters and their experience of Japan--you're just as lost as they are. In a word, this is a wry film. And that's a good thing.
Anyone who's seen it, please offer your guess as to what Bob says to Charlotte at the end.
What a film. I think this was the first time I've cared about the characters in a movie, and felt empathy with them, in a while. Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson give amazing performances. And the feel of the film drags you into the characters and their experience of Japan--you're just as lost as they are. In a word, this is a wry film. And that's a good thing.
Anyone who's seen it, please offer your guess as to what Bob says to Charlotte at the end.
Home Sweet Home
La Quinta / Reservations / Property Overview / About This Hotel
Our landlords are sending us on vacation! Their sudden discovery that the horrific stench emanating from our vents may have something to do with mold in our ducts (which can cause, I learned today, permanent brain and lung damage) prompted them to send us to...Hoffman Estates! We'll be living right next to Chili's and IHOP, and just across the freeway from a 30-theatre AMC.
Free continental breakfast will definitely make up for not being able to use my computer or television or stereo or garage or read my newspaper each morning. At least I'll have a lot of fresh towels every morning.
Our landlords are sending us on vacation! Their sudden discovery that the horrific stench emanating from our vents may have something to do with mold in our ducts (which can cause, I learned today, permanent brain and lung damage) prompted them to send us to...Hoffman Estates! We'll be living right next to Chili's and IHOP, and just across the freeway from a 30-theatre AMC.
Free continental breakfast will definitely make up for not being able to use my computer or television or stereo or garage or read my newspaper each morning. At least I'll have a lot of fresh towels every morning.
Thursday, October 23, 2003
I Feel So Bad About This
Is Scalia Too Blunt To Be Effective? (washingtonpost.com)
Ha! Justice Scalia, part of the unholy trinity of Supreme Court justices (with Thomas and Rehnquist) who can be counted upon to be on the opposite side of me on nearly any issue, won't be able to weigh in regarding the Pledge of Allegiance and whether it can include the words "under God." I guess that's what happens when you decide a case before hearing the arguments.
Today Scalia lambasted his peers for their ruling in Lawrence v. Texas . Doesn't he get it? I like the image presented in the first article of Scalia as a man who has failed to bring his colleagues around to his positions and thus been rendered, despite considerable talents, mostly ineffectual. Let's hope he remains that way.
The best way to keep Scalia out of the majority on the Court? Don't let Bush hold the White House next year. But that's just a suggestion.
Ha! Justice Scalia, part of the unholy trinity of Supreme Court justices (with Thomas and Rehnquist) who can be counted upon to be on the opposite side of me on nearly any issue, won't be able to weigh in regarding the Pledge of Allegiance and whether it can include the words "under God." I guess that's what happens when you decide a case before hearing the arguments.
Today Scalia lambasted his peers for their ruling in Lawrence v. Texas . Doesn't he get it? I like the image presented in the first article of Scalia as a man who has failed to bring his colleagues around to his positions and thus been rendered, despite considerable talents, mostly ineffectual. Let's hope he remains that way.
The best way to keep Scalia out of the majority on the Court? Don't let Bush hold the White House next year. But that's just a suggestion.
Wednesday, October 22, 2003
Language Problem
Dear John Wells, Executive Producer of The West Wing ,
You've got to be kidding me. Josh and Amy have a language problem comparable to the one the administration has regarding the stagnating economy? Here's what they have: a relationship based entirely on physical attraction and on Amy's willingness to prey upon Josh to advance her causes. Shouldn't MLP be off having a baby by now?
At least you redeemed Donna's diet metaphor after making her look incredibly stupid--having her share a theory with a Nobel Prize winning president was a nice boost for the Donna-isn't-an-idiot crowd. And that speech about Bingo Bob on the teleprompter was pretty funny. But having Ryan bail out Josh and never saying anything about it, marginalizing Charlie's role on the show, and the way you're turning Leo into a crank--I can't say I approve.
By the way, John, I hope you're setting up something very good with this whole "Toby wants a different job description" thing. Perhaps this is how you'll promote Donna to set up her impending reckoning, and subsequent love affair, with Josh?
It's hard to like your show, Mr. Wells, when you're running against the MS scandal episodes over on Bravo. You should consider asking NBC to stop airing the reruns until summer so you don't have to compete. Frankly, other than Matthew Perry's return to the show, I don't know what the hell you've got planned. Based on that trailer, it doesn't look like much--but at least you didn't make me watch Josh and Amy kiss again. Thank heavens for small blessings.
Sincerely,
A Very Concerned Fan
You've got to be kidding me. Josh and Amy have a language problem comparable to the one the administration has regarding the stagnating economy? Here's what they have: a relationship based entirely on physical attraction and on Amy's willingness to prey upon Josh to advance her causes. Shouldn't MLP be off having a baby by now?
At least you redeemed Donna's diet metaphor after making her look incredibly stupid--having her share a theory with a Nobel Prize winning president was a nice boost for the Donna-isn't-an-idiot crowd. And that speech about Bingo Bob on the teleprompter was pretty funny. But having Ryan bail out Josh and never saying anything about it, marginalizing Charlie's role on the show, and the way you're turning Leo into a crank--I can't say I approve.
By the way, John, I hope you're setting up something very good with this whole "Toby wants a different job description" thing. Perhaps this is how you'll promote Donna to set up her impending reckoning, and subsequent love affair, with Josh?
It's hard to like your show, Mr. Wells, when you're running against the MS scandal episodes over on Bravo. You should consider asking NBC to stop airing the reruns until summer so you don't have to compete. Frankly, other than Matthew Perry's return to the show, I don't know what the hell you've got planned. Based on that trailer, it doesn't look like much--but at least you didn't make me watch Josh and Amy kiss again. Thank heavens for small blessings.
Sincerely,
A Very Concerned Fan
Take That, Ruben
Clay Aiken's CD Debuts at No. 1
It isn't the best CD of the year. I doubt it'll make my top ten. And it sounds like the soundtrack to a Broadway musical that doesn't yet exist. But Clay Aiken sold 613,000 copies of his new album in the first week it was in stores, and that's pretty amazing.
I hope Ruben sells less than 300,000. That would really be icing on the cake.
It isn't the best CD of the year. I doubt it'll make my top ten. And it sounds like the soundtrack to a Broadway musical that doesn't yet exist. But Clay Aiken sold 613,000 copies of his new album in the first week it was in stores, and that's pretty amazing.
I hope Ruben sells less than 300,000. That would really be icing on the cake.
Is This True?
Dateline: Hollywood
This article, sadly, blurs the line between truth and fiction. I can actually imagine the conversation that occurs near the end of the piece taking place--and Colmes doing just as bad a job as he can defending his alleged party.
Thankfully, I doubt the electoral map will be quite as red as this article shows it. Yesterday's ban is the beginning of a culture war that will play out over the coming year. The notion that Roe v. Wade is in danger traditionally works in the Democrats' favor. Some of the voters the GOP counts on may be turned off by an anti-choice message--especially soccer moms.
If you read the culture war article, pay special attention to the section about General Boykin--AKA the "Christian Soldier"--and his remarks about Islam. The fact that Bush won't shout back at him for making clearly racist remarks because he doesn't want to offend his "base" tells me just how scary and powerful that base is.
This article, sadly, blurs the line between truth and fiction. I can actually imagine the conversation that occurs near the end of the piece taking place--and Colmes doing just as bad a job as he can defending his alleged party.
Thankfully, I doubt the electoral map will be quite as red as this article shows it. Yesterday's ban is the beginning of a culture war that will play out over the coming year. The notion that Roe v. Wade is in danger traditionally works in the Democrats' favor. Some of the voters the GOP counts on may be turned off by an anti-choice message--especially soccer moms.
If you read the culture war article, pay special attention to the section about General Boykin--AKA the "Christian Soldier"--and his remarks about Islam. The fact that Bush won't shout back at him for making clearly racist remarks because he doesn't want to offend his "base" tells me just how scary and powerful that base is.
Credit Where Credit is Due
Brian was also right. He's been pointing out the flaws with the comment system consistently for a long time. Jon just made a joke about it.
Tuesday, October 21, 2003
New Genetic Code
Jon is right: this website seems to have a genetic predisposition to ignoring comments. Well, no longer. Below each post for the time being you'll see two comment links. The one on the left is NEW; please start using it for your comments. The one on the right is the old, clunky version; I'll keep it on the site until it seems appropriate to remove it.
I hope this makes it easier to add comments in the future.
I hope this makes it easier to add comments in the future.
Not for the Faint of Heart
Savage Love by Dan Savage (06/12/03)
I discovered this while reading The Onion today. The offending material--a new definition for the word "santorum"--is at the end of the column.
That 's just about the perfect revenge.
I discovered this while reading The Onion today. The offending material--a new definition for the word "santorum"--is at the end of the column.
That 's just about the perfect revenge.
Monday, October 20, 2003
Mission Accomplished?
BRAVO > The West Wing
A bit of personal triumph to share: as of tonight it is my belief that I have seen every episode of The West Wing . If not, it's very close. Thank goodness for Bravo.
A bit of personal triumph to share: as of tonight it is my belief that I have seen every episode of The West Wing . If not, it's very close. Thank goodness for Bravo.
Geysers of Blood
Kill Bill - OCTOBER 10th VOLUME 1 -
After a day of reflection, I've decided that Kill Bill is just the right kind of movie to divide in two.
I want to know how it ends--don't get me wrong about that. And watching it was, while sometimes straining, always entertaining--Uma Thurman's delicate facial expressions make up for the lack of dialogue in Volume One. But I couldn't have made it through the other 100 minutes or so of the film--not yesterday, and probably not today, either.
Much has been made of the fact that Tarantino shoots the movie in a variety of styles, all of which share a common trait--they obscure reality. Blood shoots from wounds like it would in a cartoon. The characters are often caricatures of themselves--indeed, Lucy Liu's character is animated for half her screen time. The story is so over the top as to be outside the realm of possibility.
Normally these traits make a movie watchable. They make it an escape. I can sit through three hours of Lord of the Rings and beg for more when it ends because the situation, however dire, is an escape from the reality of my life and bears little relation to it. These traits are the reason the Matrix sequels could have been packaged as one and many would have been made happier as a result.
And these traits are the reason why I can't imagine watching KB in one sitting. All the cartoony elements mask the underlying simplicity of the story: a heroine who got screwed and wants to face the people who did it. Yes, her screwing is drastic--how many of you were shot in the head on your wedding day while the rest of your wedding party was killed?--but so is her solution. It stands in all too easily as a metaphor for our own pain, our own primal urge for revenge. Tarantino lets loose the ambitions that civilization encourages us--and rightly so--to suppress. KB strikes a chord with a deep and disturbing part of the human psyche, the part that craves vengeance and holds a grudge. Incredibly, it does so without miring itself in the hours of philosophical debate about the nature of revenge one would expect from dialogue-fanatic Tarantino. Somehow, he lets the action do the talking.
If you can stomach the body count--and it's high, oh so high--go see it. Tarantino may well have lost his mind. But the man knows how to make a movie.
After a day of reflection, I've decided that Kill Bill is just the right kind of movie to divide in two.
I want to know how it ends--don't get me wrong about that. And watching it was, while sometimes straining, always entertaining--Uma Thurman's delicate facial expressions make up for the lack of dialogue in Volume One. But I couldn't have made it through the other 100 minutes or so of the film--not yesterday, and probably not today, either.
Much has been made of the fact that Tarantino shoots the movie in a variety of styles, all of which share a common trait--they obscure reality. Blood shoots from wounds like it would in a cartoon. The characters are often caricatures of themselves--indeed, Lucy Liu's character is animated for half her screen time. The story is so over the top as to be outside the realm of possibility.
Normally these traits make a movie watchable. They make it an escape. I can sit through three hours of Lord of the Rings and beg for more when it ends because the situation, however dire, is an escape from the reality of my life and bears little relation to it. These traits are the reason the Matrix sequels could have been packaged as one and many would have been made happier as a result.
And these traits are the reason why I can't imagine watching KB in one sitting. All the cartoony elements mask the underlying simplicity of the story: a heroine who got screwed and wants to face the people who did it. Yes, her screwing is drastic--how many of you were shot in the head on your wedding day while the rest of your wedding party was killed?--but so is her solution. It stands in all too easily as a metaphor for our own pain, our own primal urge for revenge. Tarantino lets loose the ambitions that civilization encourages us--and rightly so--to suppress. KB strikes a chord with a deep and disturbing part of the human psyche, the part that craves vengeance and holds a grudge. Incredibly, it does so without miring itself in the hours of philosophical debate about the nature of revenge one would expect from dialogue-fanatic Tarantino. Somehow, he lets the action do the talking.
If you can stomach the body count--and it's high, oh so high--go see it. Tarantino may well have lost his mind. But the man knows how to make a movie.
Sunday, October 19, 2003
Another Bit of Science
Yahoo! News - Sexual Identity Hard-Wired by Genetics - Study
Well, here's a study for George Bush to toss on the "ignore" pile with the global warming studies. I guess that's all you can do when the facts are against you.
Well, here's a study for George Bush to toss on the "ignore" pile with the global warming studies. I guess that's all you can do when the facts are against you.
Saturday, October 18, 2003
Make Up Your Minds!
NBC.com > The West Wing
Now NBC is saying that the episode of WW originally scheduled during game 7 of the NLCS will be on THIS Wednesday, the 22nd, rather than the 29th as originally announced. Just thought some folks might want to know.
And for the Josh-Donna naysayers, note that Bradley Whitford is next to Janel Moloney in the cast lineup at the top of NBC's site. And Mary-Louise Parker (Amy) is with child and expecting in early 2004.
Now NBC is saying that the episode of WW originally scheduled during game 7 of the NLCS will be on THIS Wednesday, the 22nd, rather than the 29th as originally announced. Just thought some folks might want to know.
And for the Josh-Donna naysayers, note that Bradley Whitford is next to Janel Moloney in the cast lineup at the top of NBC's site. And Mary-Louise Parker (Amy) is with child and expecting in early 2004.
Friday, October 17, 2003
10 Outs
Only ten outs--5 for the Red Sox, 5 for the Cubs--prevented the world from seeing the World Series of dreams. I don't even know if I can bear to watch the Marlins battle the Yankees.
Curses.
Curses.
Thursday, October 16, 2003
Just in Time
We’re Baaaa-aack
As the article above points out, liberal views are finally being heard by more than the small portion of the population willing to use the much-maligned term to describe themselves. Five of the ten bestselling books are by liberal authors, including Molly Ivins and Paul Krugman, who I've quoted here before, and Al Franken, whose book I just finished reading.
Lies and the Lying Liars Who Tell Them: A Fair and Balanced Look at the Right is a wonderful book. You'd think it would be funny but lack any substance--and you'd be dead wrong. Every chapter bursts at the seams with meaningful discussion and arguments for a variety of causes. Hannity and Colmes, O'Reilly, and Ann Coulter all come in for some fact-checking, and the prevalent idea of a liberal media goes through the wringer.
And the book is also, much to Franken's credit, hilarious. Skits like Operation Chickenhawk and Supply Side Jesus make their points while making you laugh, and repeating themes like the Bush administration's pre-9/11 terrorism plan, Operation Ignore, bring a necessary levity to a very serious topic.
If you only read one piece of non-fiction this year, make it this book. It'll really open your eyes.
As the article above points out, liberal views are finally being heard by more than the small portion of the population willing to use the much-maligned term to describe themselves. Five of the ten bestselling books are by liberal authors, including Molly Ivins and Paul Krugman, who I've quoted here before, and Al Franken, whose book I just finished reading.
Lies and the Lying Liars Who Tell Them: A Fair and Balanced Look at the Right is a wonderful book. You'd think it would be funny but lack any substance--and you'd be dead wrong. Every chapter bursts at the seams with meaningful discussion and arguments for a variety of causes. Hannity and Colmes, O'Reilly, and Ann Coulter all come in for some fact-checking, and the prevalent idea of a liberal media goes through the wringer.
And the book is also, much to Franken's credit, hilarious. Skits like Operation Chickenhawk and Supply Side Jesus make their points while making you laugh, and repeating themes like the Bush administration's pre-9/11 terrorism plan, Operation Ignore, bring a necessary levity to a very serious topic.
If you only read one piece of non-fiction this year, make it this book. It'll really open your eyes.
Wednesday, October 15, 2003
Fear Not!
NBC.com
NBC.com says that tonight's episode of The West Wing will air on the 29th. And no, they're not going to go out of order. Next week is supposed to be a rerun anyhow, from back when Rob Lowe was leaving the show. NBC probably wanted to avoid conflicting with the end of the NLCS--gee, who would watch that --and the World Series game that will inevitably be on next week. After all, the ratings for baseball's postseason this year have been setting records. It'd be tough to compete.
Think Fox would like Chicago, New York, and Boston in the playoffs every year?
NBC.com says that tonight's episode of The West Wing will air on the 29th. And no, they're not going to go out of order. Next week is supposed to be a rerun anyhow, from back when Rob Lowe was leaving the show. NBC probably wanted to avoid conflicting with the end of the NLCS--gee, who would watch that --and the World Series game that will inevitably be on next week. After all, the ratings for baseball's postseason this year have been setting records. It'd be tough to compete.
Think Fox would like Chicago, New York, and Boston in the playoffs every year?
For Real This Time
Benefits Overview
Once again I've accepted a job--and this time I mean to keep it. I'll be working as a writer at the American Academy of Dermatology, producing most of the content for their member magazine. It seemed like a great organization and a really nice office during my two interviews, and everyone I've talked to has been extremely friendly.
Never underestimate the power of a really wacky cover letter.
Once again I've accepted a job--and this time I mean to keep it. I'll be working as a writer at the American Academy of Dermatology, producing most of the content for their member magazine. It seemed like a great organization and a really nice office during my two interviews, and everyone I've talked to has been extremely friendly.
Never underestimate the power of a really wacky cover letter.
Nothing Like a Clinton
Yahoo! News - Clinton blasts Bush's gay marriage attack
And people wonder why I'd vote for Hillary in a heartbeat.
Speaking of hearts, was yours broken tonight? Five outs! Five! Tomorrow night you'll be able to breathe easy--if you're not watching the game. Everyone who is will be holding our collective breath for nine innings.
And people wonder why I'd vote for Hillary in a heartbeat.
Speaking of hearts, was yours broken tonight? Five outs! Five! Tomorrow night you'll be able to breathe easy--if you're not watching the game. Everyone who is will be holding our collective breath for nine innings.
Tuesday, October 14, 2003
A Note on the Color
Since some have noted the new green background, I should explain why I changed the look of the site.
First, I was getting tired of having the same old look. More importantly, I tried to find a color as similar as possible to Wellstone green to honor his memory these next two weeks. I'll change the background before Halloween.
Speaking of color, I think my neighborhood zipped through fall last night. The tree outside my office window went from brilliant gold to barren. I guess snow will be next.
First, I was getting tired of having the same old look. More importantly, I tried to find a color as similar as possible to Wellstone green to honor his memory these next two weeks. I'll change the background before Halloween.
Speaking of color, I think my neighborhood zipped through fall last night. The tree outside my office window went from brilliant gold to barren. I guess snow will be next.
Monday, October 13, 2003
Strong Families?
Marriage Protection Week, 2003
Somehow, I don't think strong families are what the Right considers the most important notion in the delightful proclamation above. If they did, they wouldn't have made the third and most provocative sentence stand apart.
Thank you, George W. Bush, for using the authority vested in you to remind me that you consider me a second-class citizen. (And thanks, especially, for choosing the week after National Coming Out Day to do it.) My only comfort is knowing that you're a third-rate human being with a fourth-grade mind.
Somehow, I don't think strong families are what the Right considers the most important notion in the delightful proclamation above. If they did, they wouldn't have made the third and most provocative sentence stand apart.
Thank you, George W. Bush, for using the authority vested in you to remind me that you consider me a second-class citizen. (And thanks, especially, for choosing the week after National Coming Out Day to do it.) My only comfort is knowing that you're a third-rate human being with a fourth-grade mind.
Almost a Year
In twelve short days, it will have been a year since Senator Paul Wellstone, his wife, his daughter, three members of his staff, and two pilots crashed into a northern Minnesota forest and died. While it seems strange to feel this way, I consider that day a pivotal one for me, a day when I staretd to reconsider my place in the world as it related to politics, family, and work.
Imagine my surprise, then, when I came across a chapter in Al Franken's new book (which is, by the way, stellar) that discusses Wellstone's death and the ensuing memorial. I don't want to get into a debate about that memorial, though I still shudder when I think about how thoroughly the media botched its coverage when it allowed a heartfelt speech to be spun into an act of naked political cunning. What I want to do is remind people of something Wellstone said, something I believe, and something that refutes the idea, expressed to me by many of late, that politics is just a game, not a meaningful exercise:
"Politics is not about power. Politics is not about money. Politics is not about winning for the sake of winning. Politics is about the improvement of people's lives. It's about advancing the cause of peace and justice in our country and in our world. Politics is about doing well for people."
Imagine my surprise, then, when I came across a chapter in Al Franken's new book (which is, by the way, stellar) that discusses Wellstone's death and the ensuing memorial. I don't want to get into a debate about that memorial, though I still shudder when I think about how thoroughly the media botched its coverage when it allowed a heartfelt speech to be spun into an act of naked political cunning. What I want to do is remind people of something Wellstone said, something I believe, and something that refutes the idea, expressed to me by many of late, that politics is just a game, not a meaningful exercise:
"Politics is not about power. Politics is not about money. Politics is not about winning for the sake of winning. Politics is about the improvement of people's lives. It's about advancing the cause of peace and justice in our country and in our world. Politics is about doing well for people."
Now That's Brilliant
Raised by a pack of French poodles
Though I've never watched Newlyweds , I've heard enough about it to find the article above very funny and very interesting. Linda Holmes is an excellent freelancer, and I think you'll find her conclusions about the popularity of the MTV show intriguing. Enjoy.
Though I've never watched Newlyweds , I've heard enough about it to find the article above very funny and very interesting. Linda Holmes is an excellent freelancer, and I think you'll find her conclusions about the popularity of the MTV show intriguing. Enjoy.
Thought of the Day
I'd rather work for a company that gives employees Martin Luther King Day off than one that celebrates Columbus Day.
And here's a question, especially for people familiar with elementary education: is Columbus still a big deal at this time of year like he was in my youth? I have such a different idea of him and his ilk now, and I wondered if schools are teaching about his "discovery" differently.
And here's a question, especially for people familiar with elementary education: is Columbus still a big deal at this time of year like he was in my youth? I have such a different idea of him and his ilk now, and I wondered if schools are teaching about his "discovery" differently.
Thursday, October 09, 2003
Done So Soon?
Google Search: "joey and rachel break up"
One of my visitors today arrived via the search above. It turns out that this site was the only one that a search for "joey and rachel break up" returned.
Yet it would appear that, only three episodes in, that's what has happened on Friends . I have no source, so this isn't spoiling, but I saw this coming and you've got to wonder, after watching Joey and Rachel fizzle out and head to bed separately, how long it will be before the writers bring back the Ross-Rachel plotline. They've only got 15 episodes left to put Emma in an unbroken home.
I thought tonight showed a great use of a guest star without all the promotional clowning you usually see on NBC. Granted, in spite of her roles in Christopher Guest films and as Stifler's mom, Jennifer Coolidge is hardly a household name. Still, it was nice to see a surprise on a show that, after ten years, has to really stretch to be surprising. And Chandler grabbing the phone to tell Amanda that he gets pedicures, providing multiple payoffs for a joke set up at the intro, was the kind of detail that allows the show to remain funny after all this time.
On a personal note, the waiting begins again for me. I've sent in my writing sample and submitted my references, following up on two strong interviews; someday soon I hope to hear back with positive news about the job I want more than any I've heard about this long summer and fall. Wish me luck.
One of my visitors today arrived via the search above. It turns out that this site was the only one that a search for "joey and rachel break up" returned.
Yet it would appear that, only three episodes in, that's what has happened on Friends . I have no source, so this isn't spoiling, but I saw this coming and you've got to wonder, after watching Joey and Rachel fizzle out and head to bed separately, how long it will be before the writers bring back the Ross-Rachel plotline. They've only got 15 episodes left to put Emma in an unbroken home.
I thought tonight showed a great use of a guest star without all the promotional clowning you usually see on NBC. Granted, in spite of her roles in Christopher Guest films and as Stifler's mom, Jennifer Coolidge is hardly a household name. Still, it was nice to see a surprise on a show that, after ten years, has to really stretch to be surprising. And Chandler grabbing the phone to tell Amanda that he gets pedicures, providing multiple payoffs for a joke set up at the intro, was the kind of detail that allows the show to remain funny after all this time.
On a personal note, the waiting begins again for me. I've sent in my writing sample and submitted my references, following up on two strong interviews; someday soon I hope to hear back with positive news about the job I want more than any I've heard about this long summer and fall. Wish me luck.
Wednesday, October 08, 2003
Oh, the Horror
GeorgeWBush.com :: Official Blog :: October 2003 Archive
George W. Bush and I now have something in common--before this, our gender was the only thing I believe we shared--and it makes me somewhat sick. Bush has started a blog.
The entry above discusses the launch of his 2004 campaign in Pennsylvania, where he's chosen the delightful Rick Santorum to chair his efforts. Yes, Bush is aggressively courting the gay vote in the Keystone State. Perhaps he should call in Jesse Helms to tie up the black vote as well.
For those who don't remember why Rick Santorum and I aren't friends, check out this charming article by Santorum and this humorous selection from another, more respectable blog than Bush's.
George W. Bush and I now have something in common--before this, our gender was the only thing I believe we shared--and it makes me somewhat sick. Bush has started a blog.
The entry above discusses the launch of his 2004 campaign in Pennsylvania, where he's chosen the delightful Rick Santorum to chair his efforts. Yes, Bush is aggressively courting the gay vote in the Keystone State. Perhaps he should call in Jesse Helms to tie up the black vote as well.
For those who don't remember why Rick Santorum and I aren't friends, check out this charming article by Santorum and this humorous selection from another, more respectable blog than Bush's.
Independence Day? More Like Columbus Day
I know that reality has been suspended on The West Wing . Nevertheless, wasn't it a bit strange that tonight's episode took place on the Fourth of July? I suppose they're maintaining the internal integrity of the show.
This episode was a slight improvement over the last two. While the horse montage that ran through the show was a bit much, the pacing of the conversations picked up, and the characters are back to thinking about issues and making us think with them. CJ's troubles with Bartlet's actions will hopefully mean a meatier role for her as the season goes on. Again, though, I must ask: Where is Danny? He's the one who brought Sharif to CJ's attention in the first place. I hope Wells hasn't let his character fade from the show in favor of this obnoxious new intern, Ryan.
Also, I'm glad William Devane won't be the VP, but I thought Gary Cole fell flat as "Bingo Bob." If he's going to get what he asks for--more access and involvement than Hoynes--I hope the writers make his character as intriguing as he promised to be in his little speech to Bartlet about confounding expectations.
Finally, I'm glad Charlie finally got a line. The conflicted face of Dule Hill as he told Bartlet to send Zoey to New Hampshire spoke volumes, but he deserves to speak with his mouth once in a while.
This episode was a slight improvement over the last two. While the horse montage that ran through the show was a bit much, the pacing of the conversations picked up, and the characters are back to thinking about issues and making us think with them. CJ's troubles with Bartlet's actions will hopefully mean a meatier role for her as the season goes on. Again, though, I must ask: Where is Danny? He's the one who brought Sharif to CJ's attention in the first place. I hope Wells hasn't let his character fade from the show in favor of this obnoxious new intern, Ryan.
Also, I'm glad William Devane won't be the VP, but I thought Gary Cole fell flat as "Bingo Bob." If he's going to get what he asks for--more access and involvement than Hoynes--I hope the writers make his character as intriguing as he promised to be in his little speech to Bartlet about confounding expectations.
Finally, I'm glad Charlie finally got a line. The conflicted face of Dule Hill as he told Bartlet to send Zoey to New Hampshire spoke volumes, but he deserves to speak with his mouth once in a while.
Tuesday, October 07, 2003
A Faint Light
Yahoo! News - Poll: U.S. public is 50-50 on gay marriage
On a very bad night for sports and politics--unfortunately we can't recall the result of the Cubs game--the article above is the best news I could scrounge up. What do people think: will we see some federal legal recognition of gay couples in our lifetime?
On a very bad night for sports and politics--unfortunately we can't recall the result of the Cubs game--the article above is the best news I could scrounge up. What do people think: will we see some federal legal recognition of gay couples in our lifetime?
If You Went to Bed When This Was the Headline, I'm So Sorry
Yahoo! News - Buccaneers Leading Colts 28-7 at 3Q
It was a perfect night for sports. The Red Sox kept the dream of an all-curse World Series alive by closing out the choking A's 4-3 in a nail-biting game that couldn't have been more riveting in its final innings. (Best wishes to Johnny Damon, who left the field on a stretcher, and evidently a concussion, after colliding with a teammate as they both ran to catch a bloop to center.) Then, millions of Americans switched over to the Monday Night Football telecast, only to find the Colts hopelessly behind the Bucs...
Except...Indy QB Peyton Manning caught fire, seemingly aware that his audience had suddenly doubled. With 386 passing yards (176 of them to the phenomenal and underrated Marvin Harrison), Manning led his team back from a 21-point halftime deficit, driving the team downfield for three scores within the final four minutes. The ensuing overtime brought eleven more minutes of thrills before Vanderjagt's field goal clinked the right goalpost and bounced left and through to win the game. I pity the millions of people who turned off the game certain that it had been decided and missed the most stunning comeback of the season.
It was a perfect night for sports. The Red Sox kept the dream of an all-curse World Series alive by closing out the choking A's 4-3 in a nail-biting game that couldn't have been more riveting in its final innings. (Best wishes to Johnny Damon, who left the field on a stretcher, and evidently a concussion, after colliding with a teammate as they both ran to catch a bloop to center.) Then, millions of Americans switched over to the Monday Night Football telecast, only to find the Colts hopelessly behind the Bucs...
Except...Indy QB Peyton Manning caught fire, seemingly aware that his audience had suddenly doubled. With 386 passing yards (176 of them to the phenomenal and underrated Marvin Harrison), Manning led his team back from a 21-point halftime deficit, driving the team downfield for three scores within the final four minutes. The ensuing overtime brought eleven more minutes of thrills before Vanderjagt's field goal clinked the right goalpost and bounced left and through to win the game. I pity the millions of people who turned off the game certain that it had been decided and missed the most stunning comeback of the season.
The First of Many
Bob Graham Ends Presidential Campaign
This comes as welcome news: Bob Graham, Senator and former governor of Florida, has left the race for the Democratic presidential nomination. We're back down to the fellowship of nine. As time passes I'm starting to wonder if Clark isn't the electable answer...but for now, all eyes on the recall. Place your bets: When will the final recall results be available? I'm betting we won't know the outcome until Thursday.
This comes as welcome news: Bob Graham, Senator and former governor of Florida, has left the race for the Democratic presidential nomination. We're back down to the fellowship of nine. As time passes I'm starting to wonder if Clark isn't the electable answer...but for now, all eyes on the recall. Place your bets: When will the final recall results be available? I'm betting we won't know the outcome until Thursday.
Monday, October 06, 2003
The Same Old Song
Once again I have a second interview for a job, this time on Wednesday for a job here. After all these interviews, I'm more nervous about my round of golf tomorrow than discussing a job, but wish me luck anyhow. This would be a good job to get.
I caved in and bought the new Sting album. So far it's OK, but not a revelation. His duet with Mary J. Blige is excellent, but there's a lot of filler, many of the songs are too long, and some of the album sounds like Sting plagiarizing himself. Alas.
The new Rufus Wainwright CD, Want One , is more promising. The opening track, "Oh What a World," borrows from Bolero, and that's just the start of the fun. The lyrics are interesting, the music is strikingly good and executed with obvious skill, and the album as a whole feels shorter than Sting's--but is, in fact, longer. It's just a more enjoyable way to spend time.
I caved in and bought the new Sting album. So far it's OK, but not a revelation. His duet with Mary J. Blige is excellent, but there's a lot of filler, many of the songs are too long, and some of the album sounds like Sting plagiarizing himself. Alas.
The new Rufus Wainwright CD, Want One , is more promising. The opening track, "Oh What a World," borrows from Bolero, and that's just the start of the fun. The lyrics are interesting, the music is strikingly good and executed with obvious skill, and the album as a whole feels shorter than Sting's--but is, in fact, longer. It's just a more enjoyable way to spend time.
Sunday, October 05, 2003
Countdown
Yahoo! News - Calif.'s Davis Comes Back Swinging at Schwarzenegger
It's been an interesting weekend for the California recall election. Tom Brokaw asked Arnold point-blank about the allegations of groping and harassment, noting that in many states what the potential governor has been accused of has a name: sexual assault. As the article linked above notes, the number of women who have recounted their stories of mistreatment at Schwarzenneger's hands has grown to fifteen. I doubt they're all lying.
What do people think: Should a man who seems not to respect women be the next governor of California come Wednesday? And isn't it obvious what happens next if he wins? Can't you see the signs already?
The petitions are already printed, at least in Garry Trudeau's Doonesbury comic. Starting Wednesday, if he wins, Arnold will be the next governor who faces a recall election. Don't you think millions of disgusted women and embarrassed Californians will sign? The Republicans have started something bad. It won't end here.
It's been an interesting weekend for the California recall election. Tom Brokaw asked Arnold point-blank about the allegations of groping and harassment, noting that in many states what the potential governor has been accused of has a name: sexual assault. As the article linked above notes, the number of women who have recounted their stories of mistreatment at Schwarzenneger's hands has grown to fifteen. I doubt they're all lying.
What do people think: Should a man who seems not to respect women be the next governor of California come Wednesday? And isn't it obvious what happens next if he wins? Can't you see the signs already?
The petitions are already printed, at least in Garry Trudeau's Doonesbury comic. Starting Wednesday, if he wins, Arnold will be the next governor who faces a recall election. Don't you think millions of disgusted women and embarrassed Californians will sign? The Republicans have started something bad. It won't end here.
A Great Day for Every Ursa
Yahoo! News - Cubs End 95 Years of Playoff Frustration
Today was the day of all Chicago sports days. The Bears and Cubs both found a way to win.
I was actually at the Bears game. Edinger kicked the winning field goal right at us, and we got to see both Bear touchdowns in our end zone as well. The Bears got their first win at the new Soldier Field--a historic feat, especially given their Division III level play for the first three quarters.
As for Kerry Wood and the Cubs...magical. I hope you saw it.
Today was the day of all Chicago sports days. The Bears and Cubs both found a way to win.
I was actually at the Bears game. Edinger kicked the winning field goal right at us, and we got to see both Bear touchdowns in our end zone as well. The Bears got their first win at the new Soldier Field--a historic feat, especially given their Division III level play for the first three quarters.
As for Kerry Wood and the Cubs...magical. I hope you saw it.
Thursday, October 02, 2003
Ah, Memories...
The End Matter
At last I've discovered that much of what I read in The New Yorker --a magazine to which you should subscribe if you don't already--is posted on the internet for me to share with you. Today's link will encourage a chuckle from anyone who remembers suffering with Hacker in college, or any other guide to proper citation in term papers. The final paragraph is worth its weight in gold, and ends thus: "The perfect manual of style would be like the perfect map of the world: exactly coterminous with its subject, containing a rule for every word of every sentence. We would need an extra universe to accommodate it. It would be worth it." The article explores the myriad deficiencies of Microsoft Word, the haphazard nature of web citation, and the general hilarity of trying to record your sources.
The issue also contains an interesting profile of Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert, written by none other than Jonathan Franzen, author of The Corrections .
The last issue contains a very funny profile of R.W. Apple, Jr., a New York Times writer for decades whose reputation grows with his waistline. (Jon, this issue is probably on your coffee table where I left it.) Written by Calvin Trillin, it's worth reading simply for the playful joy of the words, which were of such quality that I'm sad to have left my copy of the magazine behind in St. Louis. If you happen across a copy of the September 29th issue, sit down and enjoy.
At last I've discovered that much of what I read in The New Yorker --a magazine to which you should subscribe if you don't already--is posted on the internet for me to share with you. Today's link will encourage a chuckle from anyone who remembers suffering with Hacker in college, or any other guide to proper citation in term papers. The final paragraph is worth its weight in gold, and ends thus: "The perfect manual of style would be like the perfect map of the world: exactly coterminous with its subject, containing a rule for every word of every sentence. We would need an extra universe to accommodate it. It would be worth it." The article explores the myriad deficiencies of Microsoft Word, the haphazard nature of web citation, and the general hilarity of trying to record your sources.
The issue also contains an interesting profile of Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert, written by none other than Jonathan Franzen, author of The Corrections .
The last issue contains a very funny profile of R.W. Apple, Jr., a New York Times writer for decades whose reputation grows with his waistline. (Jon, this issue is probably on your coffee table where I left it.) Written by Calvin Trillin, it's worth reading simply for the playful joy of the words, which were of such quality that I'm sad to have left my copy of the magazine behind in St. Louis. If you happen across a copy of the September 29th issue, sit down and enjoy.
Beating the Bushes
Dean still on top of money race
With the numbers coming in, it's apparent that Howard Dean will lead the Democratic pack in fundraising again this quarter. That's good, but hardly news.
So here's some news, taken from the article linked above: "Taking the party-wide view, Rosenberg pointed to what almost no one else has noticed: Based on the preliminary estimates for the third quarter, the 10-person Democratic field collectively will have outraised the Bush campaign, an indication of how fired up Democratic donors are."
That's right: Democrats, with individual contributions of often less than $100, are managing to raise as much money as that prince of corporate contributions, Bush. How bad do we want this guy out of the White House? No price is too high...and we'll pay it from our own wallets if necessary.
With the numbers coming in, it's apparent that Howard Dean will lead the Democratic pack in fundraising again this quarter. That's good, but hardly news.
So here's some news, taken from the article linked above: "Taking the party-wide view, Rosenberg pointed to what almost no one else has noticed: Based on the preliminary estimates for the third quarter, the 10-person Democratic field collectively will have outraised the Bush campaign, an indication of how fired up Democratic donors are."
That's right: Democrats, with individual contributions of often less than $100, are managing to raise as much money as that prince of corporate contributions, Bush. How bad do we want this guy out of the White House? No price is too high...and we'll pay it from our own wallets if necessary.
A Deserving Winner
Yahoo! News - Coetzee Wins 2003 Nobel Literature Prize to Acclaim
In keeping with my promise to promote good literature, I thought I should note that J.M. Coetzee was announced today as this year's Nobel Prize winner for literature. I've read a great many books in the last several years, and I'd have to say that Disgrace , which won the Booker Prize in 1999, was one of the most profound and deeply affecting of all of them. I highly recommend it. Coetzee's work is short and easy enough to read; you can devour a book in a weekend and savor the afterglow in your consciousness for weeks to come.
In keeping with my promise to promote good literature, I thought I should note that J.M. Coetzee was announced today as this year's Nobel Prize winner for literature. I've read a great many books in the last several years, and I'd have to say that Disgrace , which won the Booker Prize in 1999, was one of the most profound and deeply affecting of all of them. I highly recommend it. Coetzee's work is short and easy enough to read; you can devour a book in a weekend and savor the afterglow in your consciousness for weeks to come.
Al Franken Was Right!
Limbaugh resigns from TV show
It's true--Rush Limbaugh is a big fat idiot. And a racist to boot. Thank goodness the pressure put on him by Gen. Wesley Clark, Dr. Howard Dean, and Rev. Al Sharpton, among others, convinced Rush to resign his post at ESPN, where he had no business being in the first place. (Has anyone noticed how many of the Democratic contenders have honorifics?) And congrats to Donovan McNabb, who has been a class act despite being publicly dissed by someone who deserved an exceedingly unclassy response.
It's true--Rush Limbaugh is a big fat idiot. And a racist to boot. Thank goodness the pressure put on him by Gen. Wesley Clark, Dr. Howard Dean, and Rev. Al Sharpton, among others, convinced Rush to resign his post at ESPN, where he had no business being in the first place. (Has anyone noticed how many of the Democratic contenders have honorifics?) And congrats to Donovan McNabb, who has been a class act despite being publicly dissed by someone who deserved an exceedingly unclassy response.
A Bit of Minnesota Remains
Yahoo! News - Garnett Signs Extension With the Wolves
I may have returned to Chicago, but many things from Minnesota stay with me. Among them is my love of the Timberwolves, who just might win a playoff series this year after breaking our hearts last season. Alas, there's good news in the air: Kevin Garnett, who Chicagoans may remember from his days of dominating high school basketball with Ronnie Fields at Farragut, has signed on for another five years at the Target Center. He, Wally, Sprewell, Olowokandi, Cassell, and Hudson are as good a top six as any team in the NBA. Here's hoping this is the year.
I may have returned to Chicago, but many things from Minnesota stay with me. Among them is my love of the Timberwolves, who just might win a playoff series this year after breaking our hearts last season. Alas, there's good news in the air: Kevin Garnett, who Chicagoans may remember from his days of dominating high school basketball with Ronnie Fields at Farragut, has signed on for another five years at the Target Center. He, Wally, Sprewell, Olowokandi, Cassell, and Hudson are as good a top six as any team in the NBA. Here's hoping this is the year.
Wednesday, October 01, 2003
Ouch! That Stings...
The last few weeks have heralded the start of the Christmas CD season. Thus far I've behaved myself. Rufus Wainwright's new CD is on its way from Amazon, and today I went to Best Buy to consider this week's offerings. For the first time since the early '90s, I couldn't bring myself to buy a Sting CD. Even for $10, I don't think I want to own Sacred Love . But please, correct me if I've made a mistake.
I did buy Dido's new album, Life for Rent . I was sucked in the first time I heard the lead single, "White Flag," which is so accessible and yet so mournful that I can't help but be impressed. So far the whole disc holds up well. It's only $9.99 at Best Buy until Saturday.
If you don't have any Bonnie Raitt albums, I'd also recommend the new Best Of collection, out this week. Only two weeks until Clay Aiken's album! What new releases are you waiting for?
Also at Best Buy, I saw the new SACD versions of 15 of Bob Dylan's best albums. Oh, it was close--I want to own them badly. But I lack the SACD player to make it worthwhile. Does anyone have SACD capability? Is there a way to get it that doesn't cost $800?
I did buy Dido's new album, Life for Rent . I was sucked in the first time I heard the lead single, "White Flag," which is so accessible and yet so mournful that I can't help but be impressed. So far the whole disc holds up well. It's only $9.99 at Best Buy until Saturday.
If you don't have any Bonnie Raitt albums, I'd also recommend the new Best Of collection, out this week. Only two weeks until Clay Aiken's album! What new releases are you waiting for?
Also at Best Buy, I saw the new SACD versions of 15 of Bob Dylan's best albums. Oh, it was close--I want to own them badly. But I lack the SACD player to make it worthwhile. Does anyone have SACD capability? Is there a way to get it that doesn't cost $800?
Is It Getting Better...
or do I feel the same? I'm not sure what to make of this week's West Wing . Amy is back--and she and Josh are apparently "rekindling" their romance next week. I know there are Mary-Louise Parker fans out there, and I have to say, she looked better tonight than at any point in last season. But she's an extra piece of baggage on a show that's getting heavier by the minute--characters get two lines an episode and hardly any screen time as it is. Now they've added a snotty Harvard intern, Angela (the pollster in the parking garage, in a scene right out of All The President's Men ), and a whole slew of First Family characters. Let's face up to an inevitable truth: this show has three seasons left at best. Bartlet's presidency will end, and the show will end as well. Character arcs have to be resolved, and piling on more and more people isn't the solution.
Fitz is leaving, however, and it appears that Secretary of State Berryhill (William Devane) will be nominated as VP and fail (which we can guess will happen because Gary Cole--yes, the boss from Office Space --is slated to take over the VP role). They're clearing some of the decks. I just don't see how Will Bailey, Toby, Josh, Donna, Amy, Leo, Jed, Abbey, Charlie, Zoey, CJ, Margaret, Carol, Danny (where the hell is Danny?), Nancy (and where was she tonight?) and the other members of the cast of thousands can get enough screen time to warrant retaining them all if Wells insists on adding more people.
Also, didn't it feel like some of the dialogue in this episode was forced? The exchange where Fitz asks Leo if they've found a replacement felt shoehorned into the action, and Walken walking out of the Oval Office was a moment that felt botched.
Nevertheless, I think this episode was more tolerable than the last one, barely. They should slip Sorkin a bag of 'shrooms and remind him that he made this show great, and beg him to polish their dialogue before they film. That and some clunky camera angle choices are making for mediocrity.
Oddly enough, Bravo's episode tonight was the one where Bartlet gives Charlie the family knife made by Paul Revere--and by implication makes him one of the family. Didn't he seem like a family member tonight, and wasn't his speechless performance the best one of the episode? I hope the whole kidnapping, however pathetically handled by the show's new masters, means that Charlie and Zoey will stick together from now on.
Fitz is leaving, however, and it appears that Secretary of State Berryhill (William Devane) will be nominated as VP and fail (which we can guess will happen because Gary Cole--yes, the boss from Office Space --is slated to take over the VP role). They're clearing some of the decks. I just don't see how Will Bailey, Toby, Josh, Donna, Amy, Leo, Jed, Abbey, Charlie, Zoey, CJ, Margaret, Carol, Danny (where the hell is Danny?), Nancy (and where was she tonight?) and the other members of the cast of thousands can get enough screen time to warrant retaining them all if Wells insists on adding more people.
Also, didn't it feel like some of the dialogue in this episode was forced? The exchange where Fitz asks Leo if they've found a replacement felt shoehorned into the action, and Walken walking out of the Oval Office was a moment that felt botched.
Nevertheless, I think this episode was more tolerable than the last one, barely. They should slip Sorkin a bag of 'shrooms and remind him that he made this show great, and beg him to polish their dialogue before they film. That and some clunky camera angle choices are making for mediocrity.
Oddly enough, Bravo's episode tonight was the one where Bartlet gives Charlie the family knife made by Paul Revere--and by implication makes him one of the family. Didn't he seem like a family member tonight, and wasn't his speechless performance the best one of the episode? I hope the whole kidnapping, however pathetically handled by the show's new masters, means that Charlie and Zoey will stick together from now on.
Tuesday, September 30, 2003
Back to Reality
I've returned after a three-day St. Louis fantasy camp of video games, 14 different beers, golf, lawn jarts, and inhuman amounts of frozen pizza. What a wonderful weekend it was! Thanks, Jon and Brian.
And look at all I've missed! Arnold has leapt to a 15-point lead over Bustamante in California, and Davis looks doomed--though I still expect that voters will think twice when they get into the booth and ponder the idea of Governor Schwarzenegger. Huffington is dropping out tonight because she's smarter than Ralph Nader: she knows it's better to leave a race and throw support to the lesser of two evils than stay in and hand the election to the worst possible choice.
Oh, and the Cubs made the playoffs. If that can happen, Gray Davis can defeat the recall.
And look at all I've missed! Arnold has leapt to a 15-point lead over Bustamante in California, and Davis looks doomed--though I still expect that voters will think twice when they get into the booth and ponder the idea of Governor Schwarzenegger. Huffington is dropping out tonight because she's smarter than Ralph Nader: she knows it's better to leave a race and throw support to the lesser of two evils than stay in and hand the election to the worst possible choice.
Oh, and the Cubs made the playoffs. If that can happen, Gray Davis can defeat the recall.
Friday, September 26, 2003
The Best Part of Waking Up...
Why Bush is a terrible president
Is finding a column with the title above in the morning Chicago Tribune . (The link above is to Molly Ivins' syndication site, in case you don't have a password at chicagotribune.com.)
Molly discusses the fact that the grudge regarding the stolen election of 2000 is perhaps the longest held grudge in the history of normally wimpy liberals, and lays out a case for the badness of Bush's presidency that isn't predicated in the least on the gut-level outrage many people feel toward him. Here's her last paragraph to tempt you into clicking on the link:
"It is not necessary to hate George W. Bush to think he's a bad president. Grown-ups can do that, you know--decide someone's policies are a miserable failure without lying awake at night consumed with hatred. Poor Bush is in way over his head, and the country is in bad shape because of his stupid economic policies. If that make me a Bush-hater, then sign me up."
Is finding a column with the title above in the morning Chicago Tribune . (The link above is to Molly Ivins' syndication site, in case you don't have a password at chicagotribune.com.)
Molly discusses the fact that the grudge regarding the stolen election of 2000 is perhaps the longest held grudge in the history of normally wimpy liberals, and lays out a case for the badness of Bush's presidency that isn't predicated in the least on the gut-level outrage many people feel toward him. Here's her last paragraph to tempt you into clicking on the link:
"It is not necessary to hate George W. Bush to think he's a bad president. Grown-ups can do that, you know--decide someone's policies are a miserable failure without lying awake at night consumed with hatred. Poor Bush is in way over his head, and the country is in bad shape because of his stupid economic policies. If that make me a Bush-hater, then sign me up."
Thursday, September 25, 2003
Where's the Sense?
Tell me: why is it that two comedies tonight had more plot advancement than the "Best Drama" on last night? Both Friends , which dealt quickly with Joey and Rachel getting together, Ross finding out, and Phoebe and Mike encountering a small bump in their reunion, and Will & Grace , which handled Will and Jack in bed together, brought Karen back from the Russian ship, and made Grace very happy when Harry Connick, Jr., quit Doctors Without Borders, moved forward in their story arcs. Perhaps John Wells should have been watching. In any case, it's hard to believe there are only 17 more episodes of Friends .
It will be a while until I have news about the interview I had today, but it went well and lasted three hours. I imagine I'll at least be invited back for a second interview (though I can't fathom what else we'd discuss), but we shall see.
Sometime tonight or tomorrow morning someone is going to roll this page's odometer to 1,000. Thanks.
It will be a while until I have news about the interview I had today, but it went well and lasted three hours. I imagine I'll at least be invited back for a second interview (though I can't fathom what else we'd discuss), but we shall see.
Sometime tonight or tomorrow morning someone is going to roll this page's odometer to 1,000. Thanks.
Let It Be Today
The signs are in place: I need to get a job. Today the doorbell rang while I was brushing my teeth. Confused, I ran downstairs and opened the door to two women wearing long dresses and carrying a bible. They quizzed me on my thoughts on evolution and gave me a book: "Life--How did it get here? By evolution or by creation?"
That's right: Jehovah's Witnesses are coming to my door. I wanted to scream, "I'm a gay man who worked on a dinosaur museum!" But I didn't, mostly because I felt bad for them being out in the cold. Nevertheless, I need a job so that I'm not home the next time they show up.
That's right: Jehovah's Witnesses are coming to my door. I wanted to scream, "I'm a gay man who worked on a dinosaur museum!" But I didn't, mostly because I felt bad for them being out in the cold. Nevertheless, I need a job so that I'm not home the next time they show up.
Wednesday, September 24, 2003
Say It Ain't So
USATODAY.com - Once-powerful 'West Wing' falls from grace
OK, it wasn't dreadful, but I didn't need any Kleenex to watch that overemoted tripe, either. I'm talking, of course, about tonight's season premiere of The West Wing .
Nothing happened. Really. John Goodman brought a dog into the Oval Office and it yipped and yapped and got hair on CJ's skirt. Bartlet's kids showed up, and Charlie showed his loyalty. And, finally, the world knows the truth about Qumar and the killing that ol' Jed approved in the finale of season three--16 months ago!
The show leaves all the cliffhanger elements from the finale for season four in place. Will Zoey be found alive? (Of course she will.) Will Walken (Goodman) take control of the government and shut out the Democrats, as Josh fears? (Doubtful, since Martin Sheen and the rest are under contract.) Will Donna ever acknowledge her feelings for Josh? (I'm betting Wells bails on this hint planted in the finale, when Amy asked Donna if she's in love with Josh--though Wells is known for turning shows into soap operas, so he could create a protracted Amy vs. Donna plot.)
At least the preview for next week appears to foretell actual plot advancement. Nevertheless, this episode marks a low point for me. Toby actually said that if they close the stock market, "the terrorists will have won." Remember that cliche?
By the way, didn't the show used to have a two-hour premiere? Perhaps that would have allowed the advancement viewers deserve after a summer of waiting. Tomorrow: did Will sleep with Jack? How many episodes until Joey and Rachel break up and she begins her steady progress toward her destiny with Ross? Could I be any more obsessed with television lately? And finally, will I ace my interview and get a job?
48 hours to St. Louis!
OK, it wasn't dreadful, but I didn't need any Kleenex to watch that overemoted tripe, either. I'm talking, of course, about tonight's season premiere of The West Wing .
Nothing happened. Really. John Goodman brought a dog into the Oval Office and it yipped and yapped and got hair on CJ's skirt. Bartlet's kids showed up, and Charlie showed his loyalty. And, finally, the world knows the truth about Qumar and the killing that ol' Jed approved in the finale of season three--16 months ago!
The show leaves all the cliffhanger elements from the finale for season four in place. Will Zoey be found alive? (Of course she will.) Will Walken (Goodman) take control of the government and shut out the Democrats, as Josh fears? (Doubtful, since Martin Sheen and the rest are under contract.) Will Donna ever acknowledge her feelings for Josh? (I'm betting Wells bails on this hint planted in the finale, when Amy asked Donna if she's in love with Josh--though Wells is known for turning shows into soap operas, so he could create a protracted Amy vs. Donna plot.)
At least the preview for next week appears to foretell actual plot advancement. Nevertheless, this episode marks a low point for me. Toby actually said that if they close the stock market, "the terrorists will have won." Remember that cliche?
By the way, didn't the show used to have a two-hour premiere? Perhaps that would have allowed the advancement viewers deserve after a summer of waiting. Tomorrow: did Will sleep with Jack? How many episodes until Joey and Rachel break up and she begins her steady progress toward her destiny with Ross? Could I be any more obsessed with television lately? And finally, will I ace my interview and get a job?
48 hours to St. Louis!
NBC Poll: Bush rating lowest ever
NBC Poll: Bush rating lowest ever
There's just something about going to MSNBC.com and seeing the words LOWEST EVER next to a picture of a frowning George W. Bush that brightens my evening. His approval is at 49% in the latest NBC/Wall Street Journal poll. Can we reschedule the 2004 election for next Tuesday?
Only half an hour until John Goodman's television presidency begins on The West Wing . May it be short-lived. I'll comment on the Sorkin-Wells transition on the show soon.
There's just something about going to MSNBC.com and seeing the words LOWEST EVER next to a picture of a frowning George W. Bush that brightens my evening. His approval is at 49% in the latest NBC/Wall Street Journal poll. Can we reschedule the 2004 election for next Tuesday?
Only half an hour until John Goodman's television presidency begins on The West Wing . May it be short-lived. I'll comment on the Sorkin-Wells transition on the show soon.
The Kind of Recall I Support
Crystal poised for Oscar duty again
The talk is that Billy Crystal will be back hosting the Oscars next year. While I enjoyed Steve Martin's show last year, I think most of America feels comfortable with Crystal running things. The anticipation of his opening monologue/medley makes the first ten minutes of the telecast must-see.
Meanwhile, California has decided to have its recall after all. At least in two weeks this will all be over. Let's just hope Arnold doesn't win. In the words of Jon Stewart at the Emmys, "You know, if he stinks you can't go to the future and send somebody back to stop him." Indeed.
The talk is that Billy Crystal will be back hosting the Oscars next year. While I enjoyed Steve Martin's show last year, I think most of America feels comfortable with Crystal running things. The anticipation of his opening monologue/medley makes the first ten minutes of the telecast must-see.
Meanwhile, California has decided to have its recall after all. At least in two weeks this will all be over. Let's just hope Arnold doesn't win. In the words of Jon Stewart at the Emmys, "You know, if he stinks you can't go to the future and send somebody back to stop him." Indeed.
Monday, September 22, 2003
Unbelievable
Yahoo! News - Clark Tied With President Bush in Poll
Who'd have thought? Only a week after he decided to run, General Clark is the Democratic frontrunner. Wait, scratch that. He's THE frontrunner, leading Bush in a head-to-head matchup (though still within the margin of error). Granted, this is a honeymoon and closer scrutiny will force Clark to actually, I don't know, TALK about his positions and debate them, but the poll is a good sign nonetheless. Dean, Kerry, Lieberman, and Gephardt all polled within striking distance of Bush. And Bush's approval rating--remember when it was in the 80s?--is down to 50%, with a 47% disapproval rating. 51% of people say they disagree with Bush on the issues that matter most to them.
Countdown: 485 more days of Bush. Four days until St. Louis!
Who'd have thought? Only a week after he decided to run, General Clark is the Democratic frontrunner. Wait, scratch that. He's THE frontrunner, leading Bush in a head-to-head matchup (though still within the margin of error). Granted, this is a honeymoon and closer scrutiny will force Clark to actually, I don't know, TALK about his positions and debate them, but the poll is a good sign nonetheless. Dean, Kerry, Lieberman, and Gephardt all polled within striking distance of Bush. And Bush's approval rating--remember when it was in the 80s?--is down to 50%, with a 47% disapproval rating. 51% of people say they disagree with Bush on the issues that matter most to them.
Countdown: 485 more days of Bush. Four days until St. Louis!
Sorkin Stunner
I don't think I'm the only person who jumped off the couch in disbelief last night. Who would have predicted a fourth straight win for The West Wing ? I love the show, and I didn't think it stood a chance. Apparently, TV's top prizes don't belong in the hands of cable TV. There was a very real chance for both Best Drama and Best Comedy to go to HBO, with two nominees in each category. Maybe if only one had made it in each list, HBO could have walked out a winner.
For the record, I know that my dream list and reality had barely any correspondance--and it would have been even worse had I made picks in the supporting categories. Brad Garrett? Doris Roberts? Tyne Daly? I know Emmy skews old, but geriatric? Oh well--Entertainment Weekly did worse, picking exactly zero categories correctly. NBC and CBS should enjoy this while they can. After next year--when Friends and Everybody Loves Raymond will clear the way, along with Frasier --it'll get a lot tougher to find geezer fare to pick ahead of Curb Your Enthusiasm . And maybe, just maybe, The Sopranos or Six Feet Under can beat a Sorkin-less West Wing .
For the record, I know that my dream list and reality had barely any correspondance--and it would have been even worse had I made picks in the supporting categories. Brad Garrett? Doris Roberts? Tyne Daly? I know Emmy skews old, but geriatric? Oh well--Entertainment Weekly did worse, picking exactly zero categories correctly. NBC and CBS should enjoy this while they can. After next year--when Friends and Everybody Loves Raymond will clear the way, along with Frasier --it'll get a lot tougher to find geezer fare to pick ahead of Curb Your Enthusiasm . And maybe, just maybe, The Sopranos or Six Feet Under can beat a Sorkin-less West Wing .
Sunday, September 21, 2003
Not Quite the Oscars...
Yahoo! TV - Coverage of the 55th Annual Emmy Awards
But still required watching for people who appreciate quality television. Tonight's Emmys are considered by many to be the best shot HBO has had at winning a Best Drama award (for Six Feet Under or The Sopranos ) and possibly the night when Curb Your Enthusiasm will win several awards as well. Considering the network alternatives, it's hard not to hope that the pundits are right. My dream picks:
Best Drama: Six Feet Under
Best Actor, Drama: Peter Krause, Six Feet Under (I know, Tony Soprano is a shoo-in. I'd also be happy to see Martin Sheen finally win this award.)
Best Actress, Drama: Who am I kidding? No one has had the guts to predict anything but Edie Falco (as Carmela Soprano) in this category. I thought Frances Conroy was sublime on Six Feet Under , and I love Allison Janney. But this is probably not a contest.
Best Comedy: I love Friends , but it would be great to see Curb Your Enthusiasm , from Larry David of Seinfeld fame, take this prize. He's making what is probably the funniest show on television.
Best Actor, Comedy: Can Joey win? It would be nice, but I've always been more of a Chandler person. So I'm picking Larry David in this category. (Matthew Perry was nominated for a Guest Actor Emmy for his two-episode role on West Wing , so he could finally win, too.)
Best Actress, Comedy: This is the hardest category to pick because all five nominees deserve to have at least one Emmy on the mantle. Aniston and Heaton already have them, so for me it's a race between Sarah Jessica Parker (who makes Sex and the City tick), Debra Messing (who sometimes over-acts on Will & Grace ), and Jane Kaczmarek (whose crazed mother character had a baby on Malcolm in the Middle this season). Parker can win next year for the final, full-length season of Sex , and Messing needs to prove she can pull off an episode that isn't dependent on her physically goofy humor. Kaczmarek should get an Emmy to put next to husband Bradley Whitford's as a lifetime achievement award--before Malcolm goes down the tubes.
But still required watching for people who appreciate quality television. Tonight's Emmys are considered by many to be the best shot HBO has had at winning a Best Drama award (for Six Feet Under or The Sopranos ) and possibly the night when Curb Your Enthusiasm will win several awards as well. Considering the network alternatives, it's hard not to hope that the pundits are right. My dream picks:
Best Drama: Six Feet Under
Best Actor, Drama: Peter Krause, Six Feet Under (I know, Tony Soprano is a shoo-in. I'd also be happy to see Martin Sheen finally win this award.)
Best Actress, Drama: Who am I kidding? No one has had the guts to predict anything but Edie Falco (as Carmela Soprano) in this category. I thought Frances Conroy was sublime on Six Feet Under , and I love Allison Janney. But this is probably not a contest.
Best Comedy: I love Friends , but it would be great to see Curb Your Enthusiasm , from Larry David of Seinfeld fame, take this prize. He's making what is probably the funniest show on television.
Best Actor, Comedy: Can Joey win? It would be nice, but I've always been more of a Chandler person. So I'm picking Larry David in this category. (Matthew Perry was nominated for a Guest Actor Emmy for his two-episode role on West Wing , so he could finally win, too.)
Best Actress, Comedy: This is the hardest category to pick because all five nominees deserve to have at least one Emmy on the mantle. Aniston and Heaton already have them, so for me it's a race between Sarah Jessica Parker (who makes Sex and the City tick), Debra Messing (who sometimes over-acts on Will & Grace ), and Jane Kaczmarek (whose crazed mother character had a baby on Malcolm in the Middle this season). Parker can win next year for the final, full-length season of Sex , and Messing needs to prove she can pull off an episode that isn't dependent on her physically goofy humor. Kaczmarek should get an Emmy to put next to husband Bradley Whitford's as a lifetime achievement award--before Malcolm goes down the tubes.
Friday, September 19, 2003
Don't Be So Quick To Walk Away
I had a retail curse on me tonight. At Circuit City, I tried to return a $14.99 video cable and the guy told me my refund would be $4.00. That would be the price of an audio cable, which was on the same receipt. But did he correct his mistake? No...he told me that his Circuit City doesn't have the same inventory as the one where I bought the cable in the first place...and I get to go back there and have the same foolish argument with another person. Then, at Cold Stone Creamery, the kid behind the counter actually mocked my ice cream while he was making it. I paid for dessert, not a lecture on how wonderful the banana caramel crunch is and how unadventurous I am for ordering the Founder's Favorite.
Bookended by these two events was a very pleasant dinner with Brian and Michele at Tribella in Batavia. (They also witnessed the dessert debacle.)
By the way, the box at the right will allow you to subscribe to an e-mail version of this blog; you can have it waiting in in your inbox for you a few times a week free of charge! And most of the time it'll contain posts with more depth than this one. Coming soon: commentary on the recall decision of the court, when the case is decided; discussion of (and picks for) the Emmys; and the full lyrics of Justin Timberlake's "Rock Your Body." Maybe just two of those three...
Bookended by these two events was a very pleasant dinner with Brian and Michele at Tribella in Batavia. (They also witnessed the dessert debacle.)
By the way, the box at the right will allow you to subscribe to an e-mail version of this blog; you can have it waiting in in your inbox for you a few times a week free of charge! And most of the time it'll contain posts with more depth than this one. Coming soon: commentary on the recall decision of the court, when the case is decided; discussion of (and picks for) the Emmys; and the full lyrics of Justin Timberlake's "Rock Your Body." Maybe just two of those three...
Thursday, September 18, 2003
Famous?
achangintimes.com
Check out the link above (or at the right, in the links section) for a new source of political information. And, while you're at it, check out the fact that my last post is part of the content!
Also on the site, check out Michael Moore's letter to Wesley Clark (you'll have to scroll down to Veralynne's post for 9/12/03). While I remain a Dean supporter, I think General Clark can add a lot to the race and would welcome him as a Dean running mate--or even as the nominee, if it comes to that. He's my solid second choice.
Check out the link above (or at the right, in the links section) for a new source of political information. And, while you're at it, check out the fact that my last post is part of the content!
Also on the site, check out Michael Moore's letter to Wesley Clark (you'll have to scroll down to Veralynne's post for 9/12/03). While I remain a Dean supporter, I think General Clark can add a lot to the race and would welcome him as a Dean running mate--or even as the nominee, if it comes to that. He's my solid second choice.
A Bit of Light Reading
Editorial: Truth / Too little of it on Iraq
I've been asked to provide more interesting reading material, so here's some: the link above points to an editorial in the Star Tribune . It discusses a series of statements by Dick Cheney in one of his rare public appearances. The lack of honesty is astounding.
You can also read this article by Molly Ivins for a brief commentary on the state of the nation today. Pay special attention to the paragraph that begins, "Let me be the first to say--we shoulda listened to Al Gore....We shoulda put that money into a lockbox for Social Security." The point she's making is perhaps the scariest point of all: that this war, these tax cuts, are not the misguided folly they seem. Indeed, they're really the fulfillment of the desire of the right wing Republicans to force the country to untie its safety net.
For a deeper exposition of this point, read Paul Krugman's article in this weekend's New York Times Magazine . You may need to go through the free registration process in order to read this, but it'll be an eye-opener for sure. Tell me, do you want to live in a country with substandard public education, no Medicare or Medicaid, no Social Security? If so, by all means, vote Republican.
Otherwise, it's time to do as Ivins says: "It's our government, we can still make it do what we want it to when we put in the energy it takes to work with other people, organize, campaign and vote--we can still make the whole clumsy, money-driven system work for us. And it's high time we did so."
I've been asked to provide more interesting reading material, so here's some: the link above points to an editorial in the Star Tribune . It discusses a series of statements by Dick Cheney in one of his rare public appearances. The lack of honesty is astounding.
You can also read this article by Molly Ivins for a brief commentary on the state of the nation today. Pay special attention to the paragraph that begins, "Let me be the first to say--we shoulda listened to Al Gore....We shoulda put that money into a lockbox for Social Security." The point she's making is perhaps the scariest point of all: that this war, these tax cuts, are not the misguided folly they seem. Indeed, they're really the fulfillment of the desire of the right wing Republicans to force the country to untie its safety net.
For a deeper exposition of this point, read Paul Krugman's article in this weekend's New York Times Magazine . You may need to go through the free registration process in order to read this, but it'll be an eye-opener for sure. Tell me, do you want to live in a country with substandard public education, no Medicare or Medicaid, no Social Security? If so, by all means, vote Republican.
Otherwise, it's time to do as Ivins says: "It's our government, we can still make it do what we want it to when we put in the energy it takes to work with other people, organize, campaign and vote--we can still make the whole clumsy, money-driven system work for us. And it's high time we did so."
Wednesday, September 17, 2003
Fortune Smiles
Mere hours after informing my employer of two days that there would not be a third, I got a call from a place I applied to last week for a job editing and writing for a national magazine published for members of a niche medical community. Which is, frankly, perfect--close to home, in line with what I've done in the past, and clearly not driven by sales goals. The interview isn't for eight days. But it feels good to have something on the plate so soon.
Tuesday, September 16, 2003
Oh, the Folly of Youth
"I don't want to sell anything, buy anything, or process anything as a career. I don't want to sell anything bought or processed, or buy anything sold or processed, or process anything sold, bought, or processed, or repair anything sold, bought, or processed. You know, as a career, I don't want to do that." --Lloyd Dobler, Say Anything...
Wednesday at 7:00 AM I will be voluntarily unemployed for the second time in three months. My new job is quitting jobs! Seriously, this is NOT the place to work, at least not for me. I don't mind working hard--as I hope many of you would agree--nor do I mind pressure, or even having to wear a tie every day. I DO mind working for a company that willfully lies to clients, treats employees like cogs in a machine, and seems to have no guiding vision other than making money. I understand: The purpose of a business is to make money. Call me crazy, but life is too short to go into business solely for that reason, or to work for an employer whose only objective is to wring money from clients as quickly as possible while doing as little for them as possible.
And the boss (who reminded me of Marsellus Wallace [Ving Rhames] in Pulp Fiction , if that tells you anything) told us this afternoon we would be working Saturday at 9:00. Which happens to be when one person was planning to move into a new home, a second was expected in Minnesota to play rugby, and a third thought he would be spending the weekend with his family in Colorado because he commutes once a week--on Friday night, not Saturday--to his home there. An employer who A) doesn't know about these events in his employees' lives or B) doesn't care about them isn't the kind of person for whom I want to work. I'd rather be poor.
Which I am, except now I have a bunch of nice clothes that I bought for work. Maybe I should get a job as a bank teller. Seriously, if you know of any jobs--preferably not for soulless corporate entities--let me know. Today I proudly pull my Lloyd Dobler for a lifetime, but tomorrow I'm still going to need to eat.
One more thing. This experience makes me appreciate Split Rock Studios more than I ever did. I'll be lucky to find another place that fosters a friendly environment and cares about clients as much as that company.
Wednesday at 7:00 AM I will be voluntarily unemployed for the second time in three months. My new job is quitting jobs! Seriously, this is NOT the place to work, at least not for me. I don't mind working hard--as I hope many of you would agree--nor do I mind pressure, or even having to wear a tie every day. I DO mind working for a company that willfully lies to clients, treats employees like cogs in a machine, and seems to have no guiding vision other than making money. I understand: The purpose of a business is to make money. Call me crazy, but life is too short to go into business solely for that reason, or to work for an employer whose only objective is to wring money from clients as quickly as possible while doing as little for them as possible.
And the boss (who reminded me of Marsellus Wallace [Ving Rhames] in Pulp Fiction , if that tells you anything) told us this afternoon we would be working Saturday at 9:00. Which happens to be when one person was planning to move into a new home, a second was expected in Minnesota to play rugby, and a third thought he would be spending the weekend with his family in Colorado because he commutes once a week--on Friday night, not Saturday--to his home there. An employer who A) doesn't know about these events in his employees' lives or B) doesn't care about them isn't the kind of person for whom I want to work. I'd rather be poor.
Which I am, except now I have a bunch of nice clothes that I bought for work. Maybe I should get a job as a bank teller. Seriously, if you know of any jobs--preferably not for soulless corporate entities--let me know. Today I proudly pull my Lloyd Dobler for a lifetime, but tomorrow I'm still going to need to eat.
One more thing. This experience makes me appreciate Split Rock Studios more than I ever did. I'll be lucky to find another place that fosters a friendly environment and cares about clients as much as that company.
Friday, September 12, 2003
I Knew I Moved For a Reason
HBO: Bill Maher
If you have HBO and you're not watching Bill Maher on a weekly basis, you're wasting your money. This week: watch Jesse Ventura make a buffoon of himself (Minnesotans will have flashbacks) and shout down anyone who dares to disagree. And watch Bill still make the show fun, interesting, and informative despite having a wrestler as his loudest panelist.
If you have HBO and you're not watching Bill Maher on a weekly basis, you're wasting your money. This week: watch Jesse Ventura make a buffoon of himself (Minnesotans will have flashbacks) and shout down anyone who dares to disagree. And watch Bill still make the show fun, interesting, and informative despite having a wrestler as his loudest panelist.
Thursday, September 11, 2003
Stepping Out of Line...
The unemployment line, that is. As of Monday I'll be employed here. Now I can afford that new car...that I already bought.
Wednesday, September 10, 2003
And Now For Something Frivolous
Six Feet Under 's third season goes into reruns on HBO starting Saturday night. It'll be on alongside The Sopranos .
John Mayer's new CD is pretty good. You can get it for less than ten bucks if you buy before Tuesday at Target or Best Buy.
John Mayer's new CD is pretty good. You can get it for less than ten bucks if you buy before Tuesday at Target or Best Buy.
Monday, September 08, 2003
A Twist in the Tale
Sorry for the long lag between posts from last Wednesday until today. I've been reconsidering my job search strategy, leaving little time for pondering of more important issues like the Democratic debate or Bill Maher's hilarious show this week. (Wesley Clark AND Al Franken are on. Catch it before Friday if you haven't already.)
Good news: I have a job interview for a copy editor position tomorrow. It's closer to my house than the last serious prospect. Please, keep your fingers crossed for me--even if it prevents you from getting anything done for the next two days.
Good news: I have a job interview for a copy editor position tomorrow. It's closer to my house than the last serious prospect. Please, keep your fingers crossed for me--even if it prevents you from getting anything done for the next two days.
Remember When....
it was OK to call Bush a total moron? I was watching a rerun of SNL on Comedy Central this afternoon and Charlie Sheen, coming off his involvement in a scandal involving drugs and hookers, made a wonderful joke. An audience member asked him if he's considered following in his father's footsteps and playing the president on TV. He responded, essentially, "I don't think people want a president who's been on cocaine, who's been arrested, and who isn't very smart."
No one remembers that Bush was a cokehead, that he drove drunk and tried to hide it. And his lack of intelligence is so blatant that the media doesn't even talk about it anymore--it's a given. Without 9/11 to transform the Bush presidency, I think we'd still be hearing these jokes and waiting for the long national nightmare to end. Even if you agree with the things he's done--and I know many people do, though the reasons why, except the most cynical, escape me--how can you think Bush is the right person to be doing them?
No one remembers that Bush was a cokehead, that he drove drunk and tried to hide it. And his lack of intelligence is so blatant that the media doesn't even talk about it anymore--it's a given. Without 9/11 to transform the Bush presidency, I think we'd still be hearing these jokes and waiting for the long national nightmare to end. Even if you agree with the things he's done--and I know many people do, though the reasons why, except the most cynical, escape me--how can you think Bush is the right person to be doing them?
Wednesday, September 03, 2003
Today Was the Day!
To get bad news, that is. The hiring from hell is over--well, over for me, anyhow. Apparently, after more than two months of working toward filling a new position, they've decided to move in a whole new direction. They were "impressed" with me at my interviews and will keep me in mind if they have openings that I can fill.
Which sounds A) like a gentle let-down and B) like I'm a male prostitute.
While swallowing this bitter pill, I should mention that Annie Lennox's new album, Bare , which features the song "Bitter Pill," is brilliant. Really. It's got top five--and possibly Grammy--written all over it.
At least I was right about James and Wes.
Which sounds A) like a gentle let-down and B) like I'm a male prostitute.
While swallowing this bitter pill, I should mention that Annie Lennox's new album, Bare , which features the song "Bitter Pill," is brilliant. Really. It's got top five--and possibly Grammy--written all over it.
At least I was right about James and Wes.
Tuesday, September 02, 2003
Tonight is the Night!
At last, we'll know who's been lying to James. Tonight marks the final episode of Bravo's Boy Meets Boy . I repeat my prediction: James will pick Wes, and Franklin will turn out to be the straight guy. Poor Brian will go down in reality TV history as the gay man who had a crush on a fellow contestant who turned out to be straight.
By the way, welcome to all of you who are finding this site strictly on the basis of Google searches regarding Boy Meets Boy . Who do you think will win tonight?
Finished Hey Nostradamus! , by one Douglas Coupland, over the weekend. It's OK, and it's interesting how Coupland tracks the impact of a high school massacre over fifteen years and within three generations. But this is a slight book in many ways; it doesn't carry the intellectual weight or have the thoughtful heft of recent books by Yann Martel, Jonathan Franzen, Jeffrey Eugenides, or Jonathan Safran Foer. For that, check out:
Life of Pi
The Corrections
Middlesex
Everything is Illuminated
Rewatched Almost Famous (thanks Paul) and Wonder Boys (thanks Cammy) over the weekend. Wonder Boys =best movie ever. What do you think about that?
By the way, welcome to all of you who are finding this site strictly on the basis of Google searches regarding Boy Meets Boy . Who do you think will win tonight?
Finished Hey Nostradamus! , by one Douglas Coupland, over the weekend. It's OK, and it's interesting how Coupland tracks the impact of a high school massacre over fifteen years and within three generations. But this is a slight book in many ways; it doesn't carry the intellectual weight or have the thoughtful heft of recent books by Yann Martel, Jonathan Franzen, Jeffrey Eugenides, or Jonathan Safran Foer. For that, check out:
Life of Pi
The Corrections
Middlesex
Everything is Illuminated
Rewatched Almost Famous (thanks Paul) and Wonder Boys (thanks Cammy) over the weekend. Wonder Boys =best movie ever. What do you think about that?
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