"Brussels sprouts are the new pistachios are the new pomegranates -- but bacon is forever."
Used in a sentence: "Brussels sprouts are the new pistachios are the now pomegranates -- but bacon is forever." (Oh right -- it already is a sentence ...)
I think I said it before, "I'm not a foodie -- I just watch them on TV". And with the amount of TV I watch, I do tend to notice when those chef-testants tend to overuse an ingredient. And whereas pomegranates were once in every dish from breakfast to midnight snack, it seems a few months ago it was pistachios that were suddenly topping every appetizer, entree and amuse-bouche. And now -- I'm prognosticating that it's the lowly brussels sprout that will be served in duos and trios and in creme brulee or ice cream.
Regardless of which culinary concoction gets its Warholian fifteen of fame, bacon has always been and will always be -- here to stay. Which is why it was so enjoyable to finally cash in my 2011 birthday present (from January) and to participate in Paddy Long's Beer and Bacon testing tonight (thanks (c)!) The pics are now appearing on FB in the new mobile uploads album (look at me joining the kids and their fanciness with their phones) of the five rounds (Irish Back-bacon, Pepper Bacon, Hot Smoked Danish Pork Belly, Hickory Smoked Breakfast Bacon and Brown Sugar Dessert Bacon) and the main courses (Bacon Wrapped Dates, Deep Fried Applewood Bacon and Spicy Bacon Sausage Balls).
[If this is my last post, feel free to drape my coffin with the blown up bacon photos. And, starting tomorrow and at least for a bit of time -- maybe a few more brussels sprouts and a few less bacon strips might be advised.]
THEY EVEN MAKE A HOLIDAY WREATH OUT OF THEM:
http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/sf/hot-or-not/hot-or-not-brussels-sprouts-wreath-071564
A BEVY OF BRUSSELS SPROUTS SPROUTS RECIPES:
http://www.lifestylefood.com.au/recipes/collections/brussels-sprout-recipes.aspx
EAT BACON HERE!:
http://timeoutchicago.com/restaurants-bars/consume-blog/97597/beer-and-bacon-tasting-at-paddy-long%E2%80%99s-pub-photo-gallery
August 31, 2011
August 30, 2011
Random Tune for Tuesday 8/30/11
There's nothing you can say. There's nothing you can do.
I'm in between The Glee Project and Glee right now, and you can mock me all you want, but I miss my weekly dose of underdog-done-right stories. (And if you mock me, I think you'd only be proving my point for me, right?) As someone who's always been a little on the quirky side, any messaging of "just be yourself" and "don't worry about what others think" warms my heart. The reality show ended in just the right way, of course, and I actually wish they would add vocal coach Nikki Anders as a regular on the show. Last random thought -- I just break into a smile and my heart grows three sizes every time I see Dot Marie Jones -- in any environment.
I said it on 6/9/10 ... but it's worth repeating: there are two types of people in this world -- those who watch and appreciate GLEE and those who don't have a heart.
Keep holding on ... we can make it through, make it through ...
A VIEWER MADE MIX OF CONTENDERS:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIHR9Z-W5ZY&feature=related
I'm in between The Glee Project and Glee right now, and you can mock me all you want, but I miss my weekly dose of underdog-done-right stories. (And if you mock me, I think you'd only be proving my point for me, right?) As someone who's always been a little on the quirky side, any messaging of "just be yourself" and "don't worry about what others think" warms my heart. The reality show ended in just the right way, of course, and I actually wish they would add vocal coach Nikki Anders as a regular on the show. Last random thought -- I just break into a smile and my heart grows three sizes every time I see Dot Marie Jones -- in any environment.
I said it on 6/9/10 ... but it's worth repeating: there are two types of people in this world -- those who watch and appreciate GLEE and those who don't have a heart.
Keep holding on ... we can make it through, make it through ...
A VIEWER MADE MIX OF CONTENDERS:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIHR9Z-W5ZY&feature=related
August 29, 2011
Random Memorial for Monday 8/29/11
Gone but not forgotten: the status update I put on the AT&T site two weeks ago.
Since they've taken it down, here's what I said:
"Dearest AT&T: I just spent 50 minutes on the phone with your staff after another 90 minutes from this past weekend. Today -- it took 8 individuals to resolve my problem, and I believe it is finally fixed. Ironically, that 8th person answered the phone with 'how can I make your day outstanding'. The answer -- create a customer service call center that actually helps those who call. How un-outstanding my day is right now."
Of course, my comment is just one of many that discuss their challenge in delivering any kind of customer service other than bad (and they don't seem to delete comments, just status updates) ... so even though they summarily dismissed it, my update will live on and will not be missed.
SADLY, I HAD TO "LIKE" IT IN ORDER TO POST MY COMPLAINT:
http://www.facebook.com/troy.neidermyer#!/ATT
I AM NOT ALONE IN MY OPINION:
http://news.consumerreports.org/electronics/2010/12/consumer-reports-cell-phone-survey-att-worst.html
AND THERE IS A SENATOR THAT IS PISSED AS WELL:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424053111903554904576458153252164820.html
Since they've taken it down, here's what I said:
"Dearest AT&T: I just spent 50 minutes on the phone with your staff after another 90 minutes from this past weekend. Today -- it took 8 individuals to resolve my problem, and I believe it is finally fixed. Ironically, that 8th person answered the phone with 'how can I make your day outstanding'. The answer -- create a customer service call center that actually helps those who call. How un-outstanding my day is right now."
Of course, my comment is just one of many that discuss their challenge in delivering any kind of customer service other than bad (and they don't seem to delete comments, just status updates) ... so even though they summarily dismissed it, my update will live on and will not be missed.
SADLY, I HAD TO "LIKE" IT IN ORDER TO POST MY COMPLAINT:
http://www.facebook.com/troy.neidermyer#!/ATT
I AM NOT ALONE IN MY OPINION:
http://news.consumerreports.org/electronics/2010/12/consumer-reports-cell-phone-survey-att-worst.html
AND THERE IS A SENATOR THAT IS PISSED AS WELL:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424053111903554904576458153252164820.html
August 28, 2011
Random Scandal Sheet for Sunday 8/28/11
What Chicago is talking about this week:
... even though it may not have affected us directly, we're all still buzzing about Hurricane Irene.
It sounds like there is lots of property damage and there are still many without power, but it would seem that most loved ones survived without issue. The early reports say that 18 deaths are attributed to the storm and many stories of loss are heart-wrenching (a man electrocuted trying to save a drowning child [wasn't that a George Clooney episode of ER] and a call placed on a cell from a girl whose car was swept away in the flooding).
In the middle of the list -- a 58 year old Harrisburg PA man that died when a tree fell on his tent. Apparently, he was at some kind of gathering -- an Irene party, perhaps? -- and he was one of a few who decided to sleep outside in the storm. I tend to subscribe that every loss of life is sad, but this one does give me the so-called cause for pause.
Here's hoping the clean-up goes smoothly (and that the tenter referenced above wasn't any friend or relative of yours ...). And -- if you hadn't yet looked, Hurricane Jose is hitting Bermuda now!
AS OF SUNDAY MORNING, 18 DEATHS:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/28/hurricane-irene-deaths_n_939421.html
MY NAME IS ON A LIST FOR SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN TROPICAL CYCLONES:
http://severe.worldweather.org/tc/sp/tcname.html
THE OFFICIAL HURRICANE PRIMER:
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
... even though it may not have affected us directly, we're all still buzzing about Hurricane Irene.
It sounds like there is lots of property damage and there are still many without power, but it would seem that most loved ones survived without issue. The early reports say that 18 deaths are attributed to the storm and many stories of loss are heart-wrenching (a man electrocuted trying to save a drowning child [wasn't that a George Clooney episode of ER] and a call placed on a cell from a girl whose car was swept away in the flooding).
In the middle of the list -- a 58 year old Harrisburg PA man that died when a tree fell on his tent. Apparently, he was at some kind of gathering -- an Irene party, perhaps? -- and he was one of a few who decided to sleep outside in the storm. I tend to subscribe that every loss of life is sad, but this one does give me the so-called cause for pause.
Here's hoping the clean-up goes smoothly (and that the tenter referenced above wasn't any friend or relative of yours ...). And -- if you hadn't yet looked, Hurricane Jose is hitting Bermuda now!
AS OF SUNDAY MORNING, 18 DEATHS:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/28/hurricane-irene-deaths_n_939421.html
MY NAME IS ON A LIST FOR SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN TROPICAL CYCLONES:
http://severe.worldweather.org/tc/sp/tcname.html
THE OFFICIAL HURRICANE PRIMER:
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
August 27, 2011
Random Soapbox for Saturday 8/27/11
I don't mean to go off on a rave here, but ...
[remember, it's about seeking balance in life, so I can't always rant ...]
... as many prepare to return to school , I couldn't be more excited to hear that groups like First Move and Chess-in-the-Schools are bringing the classic game of skill and strategy to elementary school kids everywhere. I'm certainly not a GrandMaster -- I'm more likely to be caught singing along to the Abba musical a la "One Night in Bangkok" than to be caught slapping the old game clock -- but I fully endorse the concepts so prevalent in the game: thinking analytically, building strategy for multiple scenarios, knowing when to execute an endgame, understanding the sacrifice of the pawn, etc. etc.
Chess inspired the name of my audience participation murder mystery company in the last few years of college -- and it's a featured part of one of my personal collections. Unique chess sets pop up in different places in the apartment as if I were an honorary Dimera (although they do get swapped out with unique nativity scenes around the holidays). I've got drinking plans tonight, so I'll have to post pics of my favorite sets tomorrow (the pieces in that one are shot glasses, naturally). But since I'm not raving about nor endorsing alcohol for the playground set, this is just a digression and I should return to the main thought ...
... which is -- the earlier we can teach kids coping skills for life, the better! Let the learning of the game be encouragement for these youth to be prepared for whatever comes their way. May the practice of Chess instill in them a confidence to know that they can be in control of their next move. And why not overturn the stereotype of the Chess club being the runts of the social bunch -- and embrace the fact that intelligence and advanced level brain skills can set kids up for success in life.
CONSIDER DONATING TO THE FIRST MOVE ORGANIZATION:
http://www.af4c.org/pages/first-move
CONSIDER DONATING TO CHESS-in-the-SCHOOLS:
http://www.chessintheschools.org/
OR IF THE RECESSION HAS GOT YOU DOWN, CONSIDER JUST SINGING ALONG:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mnqj31VPNoE
[remember, it's about seeking balance in life, so I can't always rant ...]
... as many prepare to return to school , I couldn't be more excited to hear that groups like First Move and Chess-in-the-Schools are bringing the classic game of skill and strategy to elementary school kids everywhere. I'm certainly not a GrandMaster -- I'm more likely to be caught singing along to the Abba musical a la "One Night in Bangkok" than to be caught slapping the old game clock -- but I fully endorse the concepts so prevalent in the game: thinking analytically, building strategy for multiple scenarios, knowing when to execute an endgame, understanding the sacrifice of the pawn, etc. etc.
Chess inspired the name of my audience participation murder mystery company in the last few years of college -- and it's a featured part of one of my personal collections. Unique chess sets pop up in different places in the apartment as if I were an honorary Dimera (although they do get swapped out with unique nativity scenes around the holidays). I've got drinking plans tonight, so I'll have to post pics of my favorite sets tomorrow (the pieces in that one are shot glasses, naturally). But since I'm not raving about nor endorsing alcohol for the playground set, this is just a digression and I should return to the main thought ...
... which is -- the earlier we can teach kids coping skills for life, the better! Let the learning of the game be encouragement for these youth to be prepared for whatever comes their way. May the practice of Chess instill in them a confidence to know that they can be in control of their next move. And why not overturn the stereotype of the Chess club being the runts of the social bunch -- and embrace the fact that intelligence and advanced level brain skills can set kids up for success in life.
CONSIDER DONATING TO THE FIRST MOVE ORGANIZATION:
http://www.af4c.org/pages/first-move
CONSIDER DONATING TO CHESS-in-the-SCHOOLS:
http://www.chessintheschools.org/
OR IF THE RECESSION HAS GOT YOU DOWN, CONSIDER JUST SINGING ALONG:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mnqj31VPNoE
August 26, 2011
Random Flashback for Friday 8/26/11
Oh no! I just found out my sister Holly was moving and I wouldn't be seeing her around so much any more.
And, by moving, I mean she'll be moving out of the old social network, so it's more like a virtual move.
And by seeing her around so much, I mean I won't get to see her posts or her old pictures or her comments on my creative output. And I just started feeling like we've reconnected after all these years.
And so, I decided to divert from my usual 20 year old pictures and provide some that are even older but that I had sitting around in my old photo albums.
Admittedly, this may actually test the new "approve the tag before it posts" privacy policy on Facebook ... but here's my photo memories of Holly through the years!
Enjoy your Facebook free existence! Hope to stay in touch some old fashioned way, if I can just remember how it is that people do that!
[And you will be missed ... thanks for supporting me and my randomness since you joined FB!]
August 25, 2011
Random Thought for Thursday 8/25/11
I know I wasn't speeding. Admittedly, I did have my cruise control set for a few miles above the speed limit -- but that's what you do on long drives at night on midwest interstates. [I remind myself of this fact as I relay this story partially to absolve myself from blame for the tragedy that unfolded.] Of course, my actual speed of travel didn't make the sound of him hitting my windshield any less jarring.
I couldn't help it. I had to know why -- even though I knew before I started asking the questions that I would never know why. But I still couldn't help myself from thinking ... Was he showing off for friends? Trying to impress a paramour? Was his life so painful that he self-medicated off of the thrill of risky behavior?
Or was it just a case of the "wrong place at the wrong time"? Maybe he was a visitor from another place that was unfamiliar with the environs and just confused easily? Was it a desperate move of one who had given up hope? Was I complicit in a suicide of sorts?
Could it be that this all happened so that he could save another? Was there someone else in danger that I hadn't seen, and this was a noble move of sacrifice? Is there someone on the side of the road that I had now passed by who was dealing with survivor's guilt? Someone with whom I should commiserate as we were now both affected by this situation?
It was only the sound of my car drifting to the side of the road and running over the rumble strips that revived me from my cerebral reverie. As the last bit of the bioluminescent innards faded, and the little green light of the dead firefly was finally and forever extinguished, I said a few words to wish him well on his new path, flicked on the wipers and squirted the now Styx-ian fluids that would erase him from my direct view.
And then I vowed to not watch "A Bug's Life" again, to stop anthropomorphizing my entomological interactions and I continued on my journey (undoubtedly silently slaying hundreds more on my path, but much more confident in my position in this ecosystem).
[And you just read my fifth entry in my occasional series of super-short sTROYies -- you can find the others by using the link to the left on the blog ...]
BUT THEY ARE ALL SO CUTE HERE:
http://www.pixar.com/featurefilms/abl/
THE SKINNY ON THE GLOWIN':
http://www.clermontcountyohio.gov/nr0611lightningbug.aspx
THIS PLACE HAS A FEATURED BUG OF THE MONTH:
http://microbiology.mtsinai.on.ca/bug/TW/tw-mm.shtml
I couldn't help it. I had to know why -- even though I knew before I started asking the questions that I would never know why. But I still couldn't help myself from thinking ... Was he showing off for friends? Trying to impress a paramour? Was his life so painful that he self-medicated off of the thrill of risky behavior?
Or was it just a case of the "wrong place at the wrong time"? Maybe he was a visitor from another place that was unfamiliar with the environs and just confused easily? Was it a desperate move of one who had given up hope? Was I complicit in a suicide of sorts?
Could it be that this all happened so that he could save another? Was there someone else in danger that I hadn't seen, and this was a noble move of sacrifice? Is there someone on the side of the road that I had now passed by who was dealing with survivor's guilt? Someone with whom I should commiserate as we were now both affected by this situation?
It was only the sound of my car drifting to the side of the road and running over the rumble strips that revived me from my cerebral reverie. As the last bit of the bioluminescent innards faded, and the little green light of the dead firefly was finally and forever extinguished, I said a few words to wish him well on his new path, flicked on the wipers and squirted the now Styx-ian fluids that would erase him from my direct view.
And then I vowed to not watch "A Bug's Life" again, to stop anthropomorphizing my entomological interactions and I continued on my journey (undoubtedly silently slaying hundreds more on my path, but much more confident in my position in this ecosystem).
[And you just read my fifth entry in my occasional series of super-short sTROYies -- you can find the others by using the link to the left on the blog ...]
BUT THEY ARE ALL SO CUTE HERE:
http://www.pixar.com/featurefilms/abl/
THE SKINNY ON THE GLOWIN':
http://www.clermontcountyohio.gov/nr0611lightningbug.aspx
THIS PLACE HAS A FEATURED BUG OF THE MONTH:
http://microbiology.mtsinai.on.ca/bug/TW/tw-mm.shtml
August 24, 2011
Random Wordplay for Wednesday 8/24/11
A very coast-ist comment.
Used at the end of a drawn out post from someone who grew up along the Eastern seaboard but now lives in the middle of "fly-over country" (in a post that really should be edited if only I had that skill set):
"While listening to East Coast Earthquake coverage (and, at least before yesterday, I would have bet that CA would have fallen into an ocean before NJ -- now I'm not so sure), I overheard one of the talking head science guys (not named Bill Nye, by the way) on the TV set say to those who were surprised at all the shakin' going on: 'but it's a known fact that the east coast has a lot of faults'. I try to be sensitive and inclusionary and balance the degree to which I allow political correctness to influence my personal randomness ... but it did strike me that it was a very coast-ist comment."
THIS FAULT LINE WAS CALLED OUT MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND 2010!:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37407341/ns/technology_and_science-science/t/san-andreas-like-fault-found-eastern-us/
THE BEACHES OF NEW JERSEY (this is not a Jersey Shore reference):
http://www.drbeach.org/NewJersey.htm
LOOK UP YOUR STATE's EARTHQUAKE RELATED HISTORY:
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/states/
Used at the end of a drawn out post from someone who grew up along the Eastern seaboard but now lives in the middle of "fly-over country" (in a post that really should be edited if only I had that skill set):
"While listening to East Coast Earthquake coverage (and, at least before yesterday, I would have bet that CA would have fallen into an ocean before NJ -- now I'm not so sure), I overheard one of the talking head science guys (not named Bill Nye, by the way) on the TV set say to those who were surprised at all the shakin' going on: 'but it's a known fact that the east coast has a lot of faults'. I try to be sensitive and inclusionary and balance the degree to which I allow political correctness to influence my personal randomness ... but it did strike me that it was a very coast-ist comment."
THIS FAULT LINE WAS CALLED OUT MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND 2010!:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37407341/ns/technology_and_science-science/t/san-andreas-like-fault-found-eastern-us/
THE BEACHES OF NEW JERSEY (this is not a Jersey Shore reference):
http://www.drbeach.org/NewJersey.htm
LOOK UP YOUR STATE's EARTHQUAKE RELATED HISTORY:
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/states/
August 23, 2011
Random Tune for Tuesday 8/23/11
At first glance, I was stymied (yeah, I just said 'stymied') by the letter Q in my year-long series of random tunes I can find on my extensive and eclectic cassette collection -- and then I found what I was looking for on the first of two mix-tapes made during my college years. Thanks to LVC roomie Jon McCracken for the wistful and memory-filled "Apropos Music of FE 213 (Volumes I and II)", on which I found this tune that fits my concept ... (and I did said wistful, so don't go expecting no rhapsodies or champion-themed-arena-anthems ... and, yes, I just said 'expecting no' instead of 'expecting any' -- I'm trying to balance the 'stymied' reference)!
Q is for QUEEN (even if just on a mix tape):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fjiapiq-hqY
Q is for QUEEN (even if just on a mix tape):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fjiapiq-hqY
August 22, 2011
Random Memorial for Monday 8/22/11
Gone but not forgotten: the King himself.
I'll resist the urge to twist this into some comment on the Bachmann campaign gaffe regarding Elvis' death-day ... and instead talk about the loss of a well known mascot. Admittedly, he is kind of creepy -- and he might just go into retirement and appear again in a Farvish way in the years ahead when retro 2010 becomes cool again -- but Burger King has announced that the Burger King is done -- over -- finished -- impeached -- unfrocked (now wait, that actually happened in one of those creepy commercials prior to this announcement).
I have to tell you that if Ronald were this creepy, he wouldn't be allowed around the kids and we wouldn't have the same reaction if he were the one getting bumped off (wouldn't that be interesting and dark -- a who killed Ronald McDonald mystery as an ad campaign -- or, better yet, an audience participation murder mystery (if I were still in that business and could overcome the copyright rules)), but I guess in some circles, this King will be missed.
SOME OF THE CREEPIEST VIDEOS:
http://wbnq.com/burger-king-retires-the-king/
ANOTHER CREEPY CAMPAIGN IN ITS OWN RIGHT:
http://www.bk.com/en/us/campaigns/subservient-chicken.html
NOW WE'RE TO RALLY AROUND THIS CONCEPT:
http://www.theimpulsivebuy.com/wordpress/2011/05/08/review-burger-king-california-whopper/
I'll resist the urge to twist this into some comment on the Bachmann campaign gaffe regarding Elvis' death-day ... and instead talk about the loss of a well known mascot. Admittedly, he is kind of creepy -- and he might just go into retirement and appear again in a Farvish way in the years ahead when retro 2010 becomes cool again -- but Burger King has announced that the Burger King is done -- over -- finished -- impeached -- unfrocked (now wait, that actually happened in one of those creepy commercials prior to this announcement).
I have to tell you that if Ronald were this creepy, he wouldn't be allowed around the kids and we wouldn't have the same reaction if he were the one getting bumped off (wouldn't that be interesting and dark -- a who killed Ronald McDonald mystery as an ad campaign -- or, better yet, an audience participation murder mystery (if I were still in that business and could overcome the copyright rules)), but I guess in some circles, this King will be missed.
SOME OF THE CREEPIEST VIDEOS:
http://wbnq.com/burger-king-retires-the-king/
ANOTHER CREEPY CAMPAIGN IN ITS OWN RIGHT:
http://www.bk.com/en/us/campaigns/subservient-chicken.html
NOW WE'RE TO RALLY AROUND THIS CONCEPT:
http://www.theimpulsivebuy.com/wordpress/2011/05/08/review-burger-king-california-whopper/
August 21, 2011
Random Scandal Sheet for Sunday 8/21/11
What Chicago is talking about this week:
Clowns.
And this will not be a post about Carlos Zambrano (although if the over sized shoe fits ...). It will actually be a post about dead clowns.
For those of you still reading, note that it takes me a week or two to catch up on all of the news around Chicago, so although International Clown Week ended two Sundays ago, it took me that long to really have a moment to look into this story a little more. And, even though it will soon be ten years I've spent in this city, I'm still fascinated to be learning about all kinds of its history.
Which gets me to my point -- the recent news coverage of the Showmen's Rest cemetery on the city's outskirts where clowns go when they die. Apparently, what started as a mass burial site for approximately 60 performers who perished in a train crash in 1918 in nearby Hammond Indiana (including tombstones that just read "Baldy" and "Smiley"), has now become a unique memorial site for circus performers. (And, although urban legend will tell you otherwise, no animals are buried there and the elephant statues in the cemetery are just artwork.)
My guess -- if you go to visit it during the day, it is a fitting memorial to those who embark on a unique vocational journey. And if you visit at night, it's probably a location just crying out to be featured in a Stephen King-like treatment!
THE WEBSITE (FEATURING ONE OF THE ELEPHANT STATUES):
http://www.showmensleague.org/showmens-rest
SOMEONE ELSE'S BLOG ABOUT UNIQUE FINDS IN GRAVEYARDS:
http://agraveinterest.blogspot.com/2011/06/circus-tragedy-and-showmens-rest.html
EVERYONE'S AT FAULT BUT ADIOS, PAYASO ZAMBRANO!:
http://www.suntimes.com/sports/telander/7073783-452/cubs-are-culpable-too.html
Clowns.
And this will not be a post about Carlos Zambrano (although if the over sized shoe fits ...). It will actually be a post about dead clowns.
For those of you still reading, note that it takes me a week or two to catch up on all of the news around Chicago, so although International Clown Week ended two Sundays ago, it took me that long to really have a moment to look into this story a little more. And, even though it will soon be ten years I've spent in this city, I'm still fascinated to be learning about all kinds of its history.
Which gets me to my point -- the recent news coverage of the Showmen's Rest cemetery on the city's outskirts where clowns go when they die. Apparently, what started as a mass burial site for approximately 60 performers who perished in a train crash in 1918 in nearby Hammond Indiana (including tombstones that just read "Baldy" and "Smiley"), has now become a unique memorial site for circus performers. (And, although urban legend will tell you otherwise, no animals are buried there and the elephant statues in the cemetery are just artwork.)
My guess -- if you go to visit it during the day, it is a fitting memorial to those who embark on a unique vocational journey. And if you visit at night, it's probably a location just crying out to be featured in a Stephen King-like treatment!
THE WEBSITE (FEATURING ONE OF THE ELEPHANT STATUES):
http://www.showmensleague.org/showmens-rest
SOMEONE ELSE'S BLOG ABOUT UNIQUE FINDS IN GRAVEYARDS:
http://agraveinterest.blogspot.com/2011/06/circus-tragedy-and-showmens-rest.html
EVERYONE'S AT FAULT BUT ADIOS, PAYASO ZAMBRANO!:
http://www.suntimes.com/sports/telander/7073783-452/cubs-are-culpable-too.html
August 20, 2011
Random Soapbox for Saturday 8/20/11
I don't mean to go off on a rant here, but ...
... when you go to see a concert, I'm okay with it being life-altering (because the performance is that amazing) but that "alteration" shouldn't be a euphemism for death.
I expect years of litigation over the incident at the Indiana State Fair (and a quick rave over the class that Sugarland has displayed, and how some of the acts performing later in the fair week turned over their proceeds to the memorial fund), and all signs point to a "freak straight-line wind phenomenon" that was entirely unpredictable. But then a few days later, a similar event happened at the Pukkelpop festival in Belgium, and suddenly it seems like maybe it's time to reconsider under what conditions festivals should be allowed to continue.
I'm just sayin' -- we used to have to get out of the community swimming pool at the first sound of thunder ... and the coasters at Hersheypark shut down if it was even in the forecast ... so what's the insistence on keeping the party going through this inclement weather? It is time to reconsider the adage that "the show must go on" and to allow for some life-saving loopholes for those promoting the events.
One caveat (and to be clear, getting hit by a car is a sad thing), but now that there is more known about the recent Lollapalooza pedestrian traffic accident in Chicago earlier this month, I'm definitely still advocating for a bit of fan accountability. The first time I read the headline about that incident, I learned that two people were critically injured after getting hit by a car trying to cross LakeShoreDrive -- so sad. Now, it turns out that those two were trying to jump the fence and gain illegal entry to the renowned event and they thought that bum-rushing ten lanes of cars would be a good idea. There is a difference between being in the wrong place at the wrong time and being responsible for your own actions when you stray far from the realm of common sense.
I'm not sure when I'll get to a concert next (the Toad the Wet Sprocket street festival performance was on a beautiful summer night on a stage that wouldn't have hurt anyone if something went wrong) especially since Aersomith is on hiatus, Pearl Jam's down in South and Central America and Reba's midwest shows haven't yet gone on sale, but I will say this ... I'm thinking lawn seats are looking much more attractive than they used to look ...
THEY NOW DEDICATE ONE OF MY FAVORITE SONGS TO THE VICTIMS:
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/entertainment/52426189-81/sugarland-stage-band-amphitheatre.html.csp
EVEN SUCH THINGS AS A CROSSWALK ON LSD GETS TIED UP IN POLITICS:
http://timeoutchicago.com/things-to-do/this-week-in-chicago/14899101/city-to-reopen-crosswalk-following-lollapalooza-accident
MORE ARE ON SALE THAN YOU THINK ...:
http://www.reba.com/shows/tour/
... when you go to see a concert, I'm okay with it being life-altering (because the performance is that amazing) but that "alteration" shouldn't be a euphemism for death.
I expect years of litigation over the incident at the Indiana State Fair (and a quick rave over the class that Sugarland has displayed, and how some of the acts performing later in the fair week turned over their proceeds to the memorial fund), and all signs point to a "freak straight-line wind phenomenon" that was entirely unpredictable. But then a few days later, a similar event happened at the Pukkelpop festival in Belgium, and suddenly it seems like maybe it's time to reconsider under what conditions festivals should be allowed to continue.
I'm just sayin' -- we used to have to get out of the community swimming pool at the first sound of thunder ... and the coasters at Hersheypark shut down if it was even in the forecast ... so what's the insistence on keeping the party going through this inclement weather? It is time to reconsider the adage that "the show must go on" and to allow for some life-saving loopholes for those promoting the events.
One caveat (and to be clear, getting hit by a car is a sad thing), but now that there is more known about the recent Lollapalooza pedestrian traffic accident in Chicago earlier this month, I'm definitely still advocating for a bit of fan accountability. The first time I read the headline about that incident, I learned that two people were critically injured after getting hit by a car trying to cross LakeShoreDrive -- so sad. Now, it turns out that those two were trying to jump the fence and gain illegal entry to the renowned event and they thought that bum-rushing ten lanes of cars would be a good idea. There is a difference between being in the wrong place at the wrong time and being responsible for your own actions when you stray far from the realm of common sense.
I'm not sure when I'll get to a concert next (the Toad the Wet Sprocket street festival performance was on a beautiful summer night on a stage that wouldn't have hurt anyone if something went wrong) especially since Aersomith is on hiatus, Pearl Jam's down in South and Central America and Reba's midwest shows haven't yet gone on sale, but I will say this ... I'm thinking lawn seats are looking much more attractive than they used to look ...
THEY NOW DEDICATE ONE OF MY FAVORITE SONGS TO THE VICTIMS:
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/entertainment/52426189-81/sugarland-stage-band-amphitheatre.html.csp
EVEN SUCH THINGS AS A CROSSWALK ON LSD GETS TIED UP IN POLITICS:
http://timeoutchicago.com/things-to-do/this-week-in-chicago/14899101/city-to-reopen-crosswalk-following-lollapalooza-accident
MORE ARE ON SALE THAN YOU THINK ...:
http://www.reba.com/shows/tour/
August 19, 2011
Random Flashback for Friday 8/19/11
I was present at this birthday party for Mrs. Woodward twenty years ago, but I was unable to attend the retirement celebration this weekend back home in Lebanon.
I went looking for an appropriate quote to encapsulate the 45 years that she spent in the nursing profession, and, with the powers of the internet, I stumbled upon this quote from a former CEO of the ANA.
Said Myrtle Aydelotte, "Nursing encompasses an art, a humanistic orientation, a feeling for the value of the individual, and an intuitive sense of ethics, and of the appropriateness of action taken."
With those characteristics so deeply rooted in her very essence, I know that retirement will only change a few day-to-day things for my "surrogate" mother -- as I have every expectation that she'll continue to live "a life of appropriate action taken" to "respect the value of the individual".
From all the patients you've taken care of over the years, from all the colleagues who've witnessed your dedication to the craft, from your friends and family -- and from those you graciously allowed into your family -- a heartiest of congratulations and a wish for continued happiness in this next chapter of your life!
August 18, 2011
Random Thought for Thursday 8/18/11
I'm excited for the concept but downhearted at the situation ...
... today, I got an automated phone call referring to itself as a pet amber alert. Apparently, someone in my 'hood (after a bit of research, someone who lives on my block) lost their dog yesterday.
The details for those of you in Chicago ...
Name: Scout
Breed: Shiba Inu
Color: Red
Sex: Female
Age: 6 mo
Last Seen: 3741 N Wilton #2N
Chicago, IL 60613
Details: Lost Shiba Inu. Looks like a little red fox.
Back leg shaved with staples from recent
surgery.
If found or seen, call 1-(847) 912-3897 or
24/7 Lost Pet Hotline: 1-877-875-PETS (7387)
WHAT A GREAT IDEA FOR WHAT MUST BE A STRESSFUL TIME (I think ... see below):
http://www.petamberalert.com/
AND ... ON FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pets-Are-People-Too/114659785258255?sk=app_6009294086
APPARENTLY, THEY HAVE A COMPETITOR (and maybe one is a scam?):
http://www.amberalertforpets.com/
... today, I got an automated phone call referring to itself as a pet amber alert. Apparently, someone in my 'hood (after a bit of research, someone who lives on my block) lost their dog yesterday.
The details for those of you in Chicago ...
Name: Scout
Breed: Shiba Inu
Color: Red
Sex: Female
Age: 6 mo
Last Seen: 3741 N Wilton #2N
Chicago, IL 60613
Details: Lost Shiba Inu. Looks like a little red fox.
Back leg shaved with staples from recent
surgery.
If found or seen, call 1-(847) 912-3897 or
24/7 Lost Pet Hotline: 1-877-875-PETS (7387)
WHAT A GREAT IDEA FOR WHAT MUST BE A STRESSFUL TIME (I think ... see below):
http://www.petamberalert.com/
AND ... ON FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pets-Are-People-Too/114659785258255?sk=app_6009294086
APPARENTLY, THEY HAVE A COMPETITOR (and maybe one is a scam?):
http://www.amberalertforpets.com/
August 17, 2011
Random Wordplay for Wednesday 8/17/11
N-WOP-M-MINI-PIM
Used in a sentence: "It doesn't lend iself to any kind of memorable acronym, but N-WOP-M-MINI-PIM is the predicted order of finish in the Big 10 for the upcoming season."
With the O referenced therein facing a possible bowl ban, it seems like our main obstacles are Nebraska (sorry Northwestern, you're the second N) and Wisconsin and our own tendency to tackle JoePa on the sidelines once every few years (and, sorry Perdue, but we're the first P in that odds line-up). It's probably a good thing our bye week is before those two games at the end of the season against those top-odds-getting teams. With published odds of 11:2, any numerologists out there intrigued by the fact that the N and W games are two of the ones we have in November, the 11th month?
Labor Day weekend -- the last chance to go to a Chicago beach, the first chance to see a new MDA telethon and the first game of the Penn State season. Can we just write off the rest of August and go to Sep 1 immediately (without passing go and without collecting $200 -- and, on a tangential side note only vaguely related to Labor Day, why hasn't the salary in that game ever gone up -- how depressing is that!)?
We are (or is that ... We will be ...) ... Penn State!
THE SEASON WILL BE OVER BEFORE THEY MAKE THEIR DECISION?:
http://www.denverpost.com/colleges/ci_18673044
THE BODOG.COM ODDS FOR THE BIG 10 THIS YEAR:
http://kegsneggsblog.com/2011/07/25/bodogs-big-ten-odds-welcoming-nebraska-as-the-b1g-chalk/
COMMONLY MISSED MONOPOLY RULES:
http://mospaw.com/monopoly/commonly-missed-monopoly-rules/13/information
Used in a sentence: "It doesn't lend iself to any kind of memorable acronym, but N-WOP-M-MINI-PIM is the predicted order of finish in the Big 10 for the upcoming season."
With the O referenced therein facing a possible bowl ban, it seems like our main obstacles are Nebraska (sorry Northwestern, you're the second N) and Wisconsin and our own tendency to tackle JoePa on the sidelines once every few years (and, sorry Perdue, but we're the first P in that odds line-up). It's probably a good thing our bye week is before those two games at the end of the season against those top-odds-getting teams. With published odds of 11:2, any numerologists out there intrigued by the fact that the N and W games are two of the ones we have in November, the 11th month?
Labor Day weekend -- the last chance to go to a Chicago beach, the first chance to see a new MDA telethon and the first game of the Penn State season. Can we just write off the rest of August and go to Sep 1 immediately (without passing go and without collecting $200 -- and, on a tangential side note only vaguely related to Labor Day, why hasn't the salary in that game ever gone up -- how depressing is that!)?
We are (or is that ... We will be ...) ... Penn State!
THE SEASON WILL BE OVER BEFORE THEY MAKE THEIR DECISION?:
http://www.denverpost.com/colleges/ci_18673044
THE BODOG.COM ODDS FOR THE BIG 10 THIS YEAR:
http://kegsneggsblog.com/2011/07/25/bodogs-big-ten-odds-welcoming-nebraska-as-the-b1g-chalk/
COMMONLY MISSED MONOPOLY RULES:
http://mospaw.com/monopoly/commonly-missed-monopoly-rules/13/information
August 16, 2011
Random Tune(s) for Tuesday 8/16/11
More randomness served up in triplicate. More tunage served three ways.
First, I will soon stop being Bob Sentz' puppet, but here's the Pet Shop Boys you were expecting last week. And I resolve to regain my independence by next week's post for the letter 'Q' in that other Tuesday series.
Second, can I just say again how rewarding it is to sit through the final credits of each True Blood episode -- not only because the sneak peek at the next episode follows, but because of the song choices we get to hear to set the mood for the wait in the week ahead. (... and Emmys for everyone -- but particularly Fiona Shaw, Alexander Skarsgard and Sam Trammell -- if only for that one scene when he played the shifted Tommy version of himself -- for their unbelievable efforts this season of dualities).
Third, having just watched this past week's episode and having seen its title, I will sheepishly admit that the Paula Abdul song called about below is what first popped into my head (s...p...e...double l...bound).
FEATURING DUSTY, OF COURSE:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wn9E5i7l-Eg&ob=av2n
THIS IS WHAT WE'RE LEFT WITH UNTIL NEXT WEEK:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJuEeaNEnds
AND THIS IS WHAT WAS ACCIDENTALLY IN MY HEAD:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfFwvI8QWOs
First, I will soon stop being Bob Sentz' puppet, but here's the Pet Shop Boys you were expecting last week. And I resolve to regain my independence by next week's post for the letter 'Q' in that other Tuesday series.
Second, can I just say again how rewarding it is to sit through the final credits of each True Blood episode -- not only because the sneak peek at the next episode follows, but because of the song choices we get to hear to set the mood for the wait in the week ahead. (... and Emmys for everyone -- but particularly Fiona Shaw, Alexander Skarsgard and Sam Trammell -- if only for that one scene when he played the shifted Tommy version of himself -- for their unbelievable efforts this season of dualities).
Third, having just watched this past week's episode and having seen its title, I will sheepishly admit that the Paula Abdul song called about below is what first popped into my head (s...p...e...double l...bound).
FEATURING DUSTY, OF COURSE:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wn9E5i7l-Eg&ob=av2n
THIS IS WHAT WE'RE LEFT WITH UNTIL NEXT WEEK:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJuEeaNEnds
AND THIS IS WHAT WAS ACCIDENTALLY IN MY HEAD:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfFwvI8QWOs
August 15, 2011
Random Memorial for Monday 8/15/11
Gone but not forgotten: items never to be heard again in Rockford, Illinois.
I've only visited Rockford once or twice since arriving in Chicago in 2001 (can you believe it will be ten years this 9/11 -- yep, that's how I know where I was on that day ...), but it still saddened me to hear recently that the last harmonica manufacturer in America (located in Rockford) just closed its doors -- and that the Salvation Army Rockford Temple Corps ended its 75 year old special worship service radio broadcast in Swedish this summer (not enough Swedes in the modern day 'hood, apparently.)
It doesn't affect me too personally, as my exposure to Swedes starts with meatballs, continues with the Swedish Bakery in Andersonville, and ends with the Muppet chef saying "smorg-as-borg" -- and as the only harmonica I've ever owned is the one that came with the special edition of Aersomith's "Honkin' on Bono". And what I remember most about Rockford is how the main drag seemed to have one of every casual fast food chain restaurant and multiple clubs where one could view those "special" kind of dancers.
All the same, those items contributing to a certain silence in Rockford (never again will you see Swedish strippers entertaining to the strains of a mouth organ!), you will be missed.
NO MORE USA MADE MOUTH ORGANS!:
http://chicagoist.com/2011/08/07/americas_last_harmonica_factory_clo.php
NO MORE SWEDISH CHURCH MUSIC ON SUNDAYS:
http://www.rrstar.com/carousel/x401387193/Swedish-radio-show-Temple-Toner-to-sign-off-next-month
NOT ALL OF THE SOUNDS OF MUSIC ARE GONE:
http://onthewaterfront.com/music-festival/
I've only visited Rockford once or twice since arriving in Chicago in 2001 (can you believe it will be ten years this 9/11 -- yep, that's how I know where I was on that day ...), but it still saddened me to hear recently that the last harmonica manufacturer in America (located in Rockford) just closed its doors -- and that the Salvation Army Rockford Temple Corps ended its 75 year old special worship service radio broadcast in Swedish this summer (not enough Swedes in the modern day 'hood, apparently.)
It doesn't affect me too personally, as my exposure to Swedes starts with meatballs, continues with the Swedish Bakery in Andersonville, and ends with the Muppet chef saying "smorg-as-borg" -- and as the only harmonica I've ever owned is the one that came with the special edition of Aersomith's "Honkin' on Bono". And what I remember most about Rockford is how the main drag seemed to have one of every casual fast food chain restaurant and multiple clubs where one could view those "special" kind of dancers.
All the same, those items contributing to a certain silence in Rockford (never again will you see Swedish strippers entertaining to the strains of a mouth organ!), you will be missed.
NO MORE USA MADE MOUTH ORGANS!:
http://chicagoist.com/2011/08/07/americas_last_harmonica_factory_clo.php
NO MORE SWEDISH CHURCH MUSIC ON SUNDAYS:
http://www.rrstar.com/carousel/x401387193/Swedish-radio-show-Temple-Toner-to-sign-off-next-month
NOT ALL OF THE SOUNDS OF MUSIC ARE GONE:
http://onthewaterfront.com/music-festival/
August 14, 2011
Random Scandal Sheet for Sunday 8/14/11
What Chicago is talking about this week:
... state fair season!
Although our state fair just started (and where else can you see MC Hammer and the Oak Ridge Boys and 3 Doors Down in the same fortnight?), it's the tragedy in Indiana at their state fair and the dog and pony show next door in Iowa that's taking over all of the news stories.
I fully expect an addition to the CMA broadcast tonight on ABC for those who died in the stage collapse before the Sugarland concert this weekend in Indiana. Talk about wrong place, wrong time -- it reminded me a little of how Six Feet Under opened each episode -- but obviously so much sadder as it was real life and not fiction. Our thoughts are with those who lost family members.
As for the political dog and pony show (which, by the way, if you do the research, is a completely inappropriate idiom that has somehow distanced itself from its obscene origin) in Iowa, we still have months to go before the 2012 race gets any clearer, but can I just say [and disclaimer, I'm going to reference the Republican and Tea Party candidates, because it's their shenanigans that have been in the news this last week -- I'm under no obligation to share my snark under any equal time principles] ...
THE ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE IN SPRINGFIELD:
http://www.agr.state.il.us/isf/entertainment.htm
WE ARE PRAYING FOR OUR FANS, SAYS SUGARLAND:
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/entertainment/post/2011/08/country-stars-send-well-wishes-to-sugarland-concert-tragedy/1
FRIED BUTTER ON A STICK AND OTHER IOWA FAIR DELICACIES:
http://www.iowastatefair.org/fair-attractions/food/
... state fair season!
Although our state fair just started (and where else can you see MC Hammer and the Oak Ridge Boys and 3 Doors Down in the same fortnight?), it's the tragedy in Indiana at their state fair and the dog and pony show next door in Iowa that's taking over all of the news stories.
I fully expect an addition to the CMA broadcast tonight on ABC for those who died in the stage collapse before the Sugarland concert this weekend in Indiana. Talk about wrong place, wrong time -- it reminded me a little of how Six Feet Under opened each episode -- but obviously so much sadder as it was real life and not fiction. Our thoughts are with those who lost family members.
As for the political dog and pony show (which, by the way, if you do the research, is a completely inappropriate idiom that has somehow distanced itself from its obscene origin) in Iowa, we still have months to go before the 2012 race gets any clearer, but can I just say [and disclaimer, I'm going to reference the Republican and Tea Party candidates, because it's their shenanigans that have been in the news this last week -- I'm under no obligation to share my snark under any equal time principles] ...
- I like to hear Ron Paul answer questions, but I'd ultimately rather invite him as a regular guest to any dinner party I'd have than have him as my President.
- When Bachmann repeatedly says that she's been "at the tip of the spear" these past few weeks fighting with Obama, does anyone else find that to be an odd choice of words that even seems subtly racist?
- It turns out that the race is only big enough for one candidate from St. Olaf -- goodbye and good luck Pawlenty.
- I like to hear Newt Gingrich answer questions, but I'd ultimately rather have him as a professor than have him as my President. And I've seen the paranoia and accusatorial stance he took at this last week's debate before -- on those who've been damaged from bad bad break-ups.
- Any chance the fact that Bush III (I mean Gov Perry) entered the race because of the politics of religion (I hear electing a Catholic president was a big thing back in the day -- are we as a country ready to nominate a Mormon)? Is Perry the Romney replacement for those with narrow religious views?
- For those of you who grew up in Lebanon County as I did, is Rick Santorum just a small step away from practicing Jarboe style politics?
- Why didn't anyone tell Huntsman that he has to do the electric slide to the far right to succeed in the primaries and boogey boogey boogey as a moderate during the major election season? Where are his handlers!
- And I wish I had something to say about CEO Cain, but I'm not even inspired to a modicum of snark on his behalf -- sorry pizza king!
THE ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE IN SPRINGFIELD:
http://www.agr.state.il.us/isf/entertainment.htm
WE ARE PRAYING FOR OUR FANS, SAYS SUGARLAND:
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/entertainment/post/2011/08/country-stars-send-well-wishes-to-sugarland-concert-tragedy/1
FRIED BUTTER ON A STICK AND OTHER IOWA FAIR DELICACIES:
http://www.iowastatefair.org/fair-attractions/food/
August 13, 2011
Random Soapbox for Saturday 8/13/11
I don't mean to go off on a rant here, but ...
... I was appalled to see kiddie insect torture kits for sale at my local grocery store. There it was -- hanging on the shelf next to the sugar structures that were supposed to pass as children's cereal choices -- a magnifying glass and tweezers combo package with the invitation to "explore nature" in the corner in an enticing font (you can see this product in the first link below).
Now for a guy who is generally of a glass-is-half-full Weltanschaung (or "world view" for you non-Deutsche readers, or for you non-Deutsche speakers in case you tried to sound out the word like a person who is jonesing for Phonics -- which, by the way, now that I'm older, seems like a system full of addiction terminology, no?), I can't quite speak as to why my mind immediately went to this dark place -- but I flashed forward to visions of the young 'uns running around outside in our triple digit heat, immolating insects like they too were possessed by the spirit of Antonia Gavilán of Logroño and all the critters were vampiric (gratuitous nod to this amazing season of True Blood for those of you in the know).
I'm not saying that curious kiddies who take the life of all those that entomologists hold dear grow up to be serial killers or that the use of the magnifying glass/tweezers combo is practically gateway-drug-like paraphernalia foreshadowing cats with tails tied together or dogs too-frequently on the business end of a boot, but it did strike me that it's a fine line between exploration and exploitation, and I hope that those who make this purchase provide it to their progeny with the precautionary messaging to respect those in the insect world.
One additional note -- while shopping today at the Sears on Lawrence Avenue (according to the Sears archives, one of the oldest in Chicago, built in 1925), I did spy the biggest cockroach I've ever seen outside of a zoo (and, with their known resilience, quite possibly the oldest cockroach I've seen, as he might have been present back when Sears and Roebuck were both regular shoppers at these locations). I didn't make a purchase (and I resisted the urge to go back to the second floor and share my experience with the couple who appeared to be about to take home their first mattress) ... but I'm just saying that there is a lesson to be learned that one doesn't always need a magnifying glass or be outside to "explore nature".
CLICK THE THUMBNAIL ON THIS PAGE TO VIEW THE "TOY":
http://www.sunshinemarkets.com.au/p/927848/nature-explorer-fun-sets---collect-them-all.html
OTHERS EXPLORE THE BURNING ANTS/SERIAL KILLER CONNECTION:
http://edisonwritingcenter.blogspot.com/2011/03/do-children-who-burn-ants-with.html
HOME TO THE OLDEST BIGGEST COCKROACH I'VE SEEN OUTSIDE OF A ZOO:
http://www.searsarchives.com/stores/history_chicago_oldest.htm
... I was appalled to see kiddie insect torture kits for sale at my local grocery store. There it was -- hanging on the shelf next to the sugar structures that were supposed to pass as children's cereal choices -- a magnifying glass and tweezers combo package with the invitation to "explore nature" in the corner in an enticing font (you can see this product in the first link below).
Now for a guy who is generally of a glass-is-half-full Weltanschaung (or "world view" for you non-Deutsche readers, or for you non-Deutsche speakers in case you tried to sound out the word like a person who is jonesing for Phonics -- which, by the way, now that I'm older, seems like a system full of addiction terminology, no?), I can't quite speak as to why my mind immediately went to this dark place -- but I flashed forward to visions of the young 'uns running around outside in our triple digit heat, immolating insects like they too were possessed by the spirit of Antonia Gavilán of Logroño and all the critters were vampiric (gratuitous nod to this amazing season of True Blood for those of you in the know).
I'm not saying that curious kiddies who take the life of all those that entomologists hold dear grow up to be serial killers or that the use of the magnifying glass/tweezers combo is practically gateway-drug-like paraphernalia foreshadowing cats with tails tied together or dogs too-frequently on the business end of a boot, but it did strike me that it's a fine line between exploration and exploitation, and I hope that those who make this purchase provide it to their progeny with the precautionary messaging to respect those in the insect world.
One additional note -- while shopping today at the Sears on Lawrence Avenue (according to the Sears archives, one of the oldest in Chicago, built in 1925), I did spy the biggest cockroach I've ever seen outside of a zoo (and, with their known resilience, quite possibly the oldest cockroach I've seen, as he might have been present back when Sears and Roebuck were both regular shoppers at these locations). I didn't make a purchase (and I resisted the urge to go back to the second floor and share my experience with the couple who appeared to be about to take home their first mattress) ... but I'm just saying that there is a lesson to be learned that one doesn't always need a magnifying glass or be outside to "explore nature".
CLICK THE THUMBNAIL ON THIS PAGE TO VIEW THE "TOY":
http://www.sunshinemarkets.com.au/p/927848/nature-explorer-fun-sets---collect-them-all.html
OTHERS EXPLORE THE BURNING ANTS/SERIAL KILLER CONNECTION:
http://edisonwritingcenter.blogspot.com/2011/03/do-children-who-burn-ants-with.html
HOME TO THE OLDEST BIGGEST COCKROACH I'VE SEEN OUTSIDE OF A ZOO:
http://www.searsarchives.com/stores/history_chicago_oldest.htm
August 12, 2011
Random Flashback for Friday 8/12/11
Dear 19 year old me (here pictured with Jon Woodward at a family get-together in August 1991):
A few thoughts ...
You had a few rough years prior to this, and you are in the midst of figuring out who you are right now. But take your time, because you'll still be doing that years later.
Keep on trusting in yourself, and be sure to stay open to learn from every single person you meet. [By the way, some of them won't be around as long as you might think, so don't miss any chance to spend quality time with loved ones.]
Guess what -- you'll eventually add 30 lbs of muscle, followed shortly thereafter by about 60 lbs of fat, so be ready. And that naturally curly hair of yours will never again be touching your collar. Plus that swell cleft in your chin -- it'll be covered up by a goatee and people won't even know it's there, believe it or not!
Most importantly, you're about to embark on a number of journeys to meet all kinds of people in all kinds of places living through all kinds of scenarios. By the way -- some stories you'll never be able to tell because people will think you're making it up. But write it all down and keep good notes and hold on to as many brain cells as you can, because it will make a good book some day (or, if you can't find the time, maybe a good series of posts on a blog)!
Above all, rest in the comfort that you'll be where you'll be two decades forward with very few regrets in life, and connected to people you love dearly and who love you back unconditionally.
(That being said, it wouldn't hurt for you to learn how to save a dollar or two every now and then ... just sayin'.)
All my best,
the 39 year old me.
August 11, 2011
Random Thought for Thursday 8/11/11
Presented to you tonight in practically the form of a haiku (poetic license grants me an extra syllable, right?), and as inspired by flipping through the channels last night when drifting off to sleep ...
SURPRISE
Shannon Doherty
"Growing the Big One" airs on
Hallmark not Cinemax!
THE LEGITIMATE TV MOVIE SITE:
NEXT UP FOR SHANNON:
OOPS, BOTH SHANNON AND CINEMAX ARE LOOKING TO MOVE PAST THEIR PAST:
August 10, 2011
Random Wordplay for Wednesday 8/10/11
Towanda, Towanda, don’t get your weave wet!
Used in a sentence: “It was my first ever exposure to how African hair is different as my friends and I passed by the erstwhile Canyon River Rapids ride at Hersheypark and heard this exhortation: ‘Towanda, Towanda, don’t get your weave wet!’”
Why in the world would I bring this up? Because I saw Chris Rock’s “Good Hair” documentary this past weekend, [if I’m going to watch as much TV as I do, I have to be sure to balance the Celebrity Rehab 5 with a documentary or two …] and so now I know so much more than I did back then. Of course, bridging the gap (and teaching me about the kitchen on the neck) was the time I spent at TCF Bank when I first arrived in Chicago, becoming much more sensitive to the differences in hair grooming for those who answered the question “where you stay at?” with “the South Side” and for those who wouldn’t miss having spaghetti and greens both appear on their holiday meal list (those were some great potluck work events).
Ever since “Everybody Hates Chris” was on TV, I’ve been attuned to Mr. Rock’s humor and his ability to find the laughter in what unites us while clueing me in on things I’ve not known about his community. And this doc was no different – funny at times, but ultimately speaking to the message he wanted to pass on to his daughters as they deal with what makes them unique and the pressures they would face to look like "white folks".
When it’s all said and done, maybe it’s just some kind of “hair envy” manifesting itself in some strange way? Either way, I recommend the flick when you can catch it ...
TWO YEARS LATE, BUT READ THE REVIEW IF INTERESTED:
http://articles.cnn.com/2009-02-05/entertainment/rock.good.hair_1_chris-rock-show-bronner-bros-black-hair?_s=PM:SHOWBIZ
MIGHT IT MAKE THE LIST OF 50 DOCS TO SEE BEFORE YOU DIE?:
http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news/2011/05/24/current-tv-launches-original-series-50-documentaries-to-see-before-you-die-premiering-on-monday-august-1-580105/20110524currenttv01/
OH NO -- THAT RIDE IS GONE!:
http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2008/07/two_new_water_rides_to_replace.html
Used in a sentence: “It was my first ever exposure to how African hair is different as my friends and I passed by the erstwhile Canyon River Rapids ride at Hersheypark and heard this exhortation: ‘Towanda, Towanda, don’t get your weave wet!’”
Why in the world would I bring this up? Because I saw Chris Rock’s “Good Hair” documentary this past weekend, [if I’m going to watch as much TV as I do, I have to be sure to balance the Celebrity Rehab 5 with a documentary or two …] and so now I know so much more than I did back then. Of course, bridging the gap (and teaching me about the kitchen on the neck) was the time I spent at TCF Bank when I first arrived in Chicago, becoming much more sensitive to the differences in hair grooming for those who answered the question “where you stay at?” with “the South Side” and for those who wouldn’t miss having spaghetti and greens both appear on their holiday meal list (those were some great potluck work events).
Ever since “Everybody Hates Chris” was on TV, I’ve been attuned to Mr. Rock’s humor and his ability to find the laughter in what unites us while clueing me in on things I’ve not known about his community. And this doc was no different – funny at times, but ultimately speaking to the message he wanted to pass on to his daughters as they deal with what makes them unique and the pressures they would face to look like "white folks".
When it’s all said and done, maybe it’s just some kind of “hair envy” manifesting itself in some strange way? Either way, I recommend the flick when you can catch it ...
TWO YEARS LATE, BUT READ THE REVIEW IF INTERESTED:
http://articles.cnn.com/2009-02-05/entertainment/rock.good.hair_1_chris-rock-show-bronner-bros-black-hair?_s=PM:SHOWBIZ
MIGHT IT MAKE THE LIST OF 50 DOCS TO SEE BEFORE YOU DIE?:
http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news/2011/05/24/current-tv-launches-original-series-50-documentaries-to-see-before-you-die-premiering-on-monday-august-1-580105/20110524currenttv01/
OH NO -- THAT RIDE IS GONE!:
http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2008/07/two_new_water_rides_to_replace.html
August 9, 2011
Random Tune for Tuesday 8/9/11
With just 500 days remaining until the end of the Mayan calendar (if anyone is hedging their bets, that gives you 500 days to do something extra special with your life), I had to turn to something lighthearted tonight when it comes to choosing a random tune from my eccentric cassette collection to represent the letter 'p'.
And, I'm skirting on the edge of violating the rules I've created for this occasional series, as I have this Pearl Jam gem on a cassette tape a friend made of a CD (a two decade old thanks to you Erik S!). I'm not THE number one fan (another guy we all ran around with back in the day claimed that title), but there's nothing like a little "not crazy, per se, just a little strange when he gets hungry" to put a smile on my face!
P IS FOR PEARL JAM:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mO6i26urmSo&feature=related
And, I'm skirting on the edge of violating the rules I've created for this occasional series, as I have this Pearl Jam gem on a cassette tape a friend made of a CD (a two decade old thanks to you Erik S!). I'm not THE number one fan (another guy we all ran around with back in the day claimed that title), but there's nothing like a little "not crazy, per se, just a little strange when he gets hungry" to put a smile on my face!
P IS FOR PEARL JAM:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mO6i26urmSo&feature=related
August 8, 2011
Purposeful Memorial for Monday 8/8/11
Gone but not forgotten: those that lost their life this weekend in the helicopter incident in Afghanistan.
Although it sounds like some families have released the names of their loved ones, the Department of Defense has not yet provided that information. But each and every name once known will be one more name too many, whether a Navy Seal, an Air Force combat controller, a dog handler (and the dog), an interpreter or an Afghan fighter we're training as our replacements.
Our hearts go out to those left behind, for whom you most certainly will be missed.
THE FIRST RELEASED NAMES:
http://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/127232663.html
AN EARLY REPORT THAT REFERENCES THE DOG:
http://www.abc12.com/story/15223340/copter-shot-down-killing-30-us-troops-8-afghans?clienttype=printable
PUTTING FACES WITH THE NAMES (note the lag time for updating):
http://projects.washingtonpost.com/fallen/afghanistan/
Although it sounds like some families have released the names of their loved ones, the Department of Defense has not yet provided that information. But each and every name once known will be one more name too many, whether a Navy Seal, an Air Force combat controller, a dog handler (and the dog), an interpreter or an Afghan fighter we're training as our replacements.
Our hearts go out to those left behind, for whom you most certainly will be missed.
THE FIRST RELEASED NAMES:
http://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/127232663.html
AN EARLY REPORT THAT REFERENCES THE DOG:
http://www.abc12.com/story/15223340/copter-shot-down-killing-30-us-troops-8-afghans?clienttype=printable
PUTTING FACES WITH THE NAMES (note the lag time for updating):
http://projects.washingtonpost.com/fallen/afghanistan/
August 7, 2011
Random Scandal Sheet for Sunday 8/7/11
What Chicago is talking about this week:
... the rash of sudden firings.
It's not a Crain's Business report I'm referencing (after all, that's just de riguer in today's business world), or a removal of Ozzie from the Sox leadership (although that does seem overdue -- and now I guess I'm just a hater) -- but it's the abrupt canning of Steve Williams and Jerry Lewis that has everyone abuzz.
Speaking of being a hater, I'll admit to feeling a little dirty about this, but is it wrong that I'm routing for Adam Scott to keep up the good work today just because he's employed Stevie on the bag now that Tiger's dumped him. (And, continuing in that hateful theme -- wasn't that the longest relationship that Tiger's ever had with anyone of any gender?)
And I can't bring myself to apply any level of snark to the MDA telethon situation. Maybe there's much more to be said, and I'll admit that it's selfish, but I'll miss the usual Labor Day tradition in its historical form with its historical host. Regardless -- it has to be about the kids, and anything that distracts from the fundraising mission just can't be tolerated, so I hope that "this too shall pass" prevails as a guiding factor for all involved.
LET's BE HONEST, NOTHING HE EVER DOES AGAIN WILL LOOK THE SAME:
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/section/blogs?blogID=golf&plckController=Blog&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&uid=1038cbce-64f9-45c9-b3ee-37c53aee6aa4&plckPostId=Blog%3A1038cbce-64f9-45c9-b3ee-37c53aee6aa4Post%3Ae69c30a2-e862-4352-bba7-f29cb1f89a28&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest
COULD IT SOON BE ANOTHER CASUALTY OF REALITY TELEVISION?:
http://insidetv.ew.com/2011/08/03/jerry-lewis-will-not-host-2011s-mda-telethon/
SAYS OZZIE: "I DON'T GIVE A [EXPLETIVE] IF I GET FIRED":
http://espn.go.com/chicago/mlb/story/_/id/6774021/ozzie-guillen-says-chicago-white-sox-fire-poor-first-half
... the rash of sudden firings.
It's not a Crain's Business report I'm referencing (after all, that's just de riguer in today's business world), or a removal of Ozzie from the Sox leadership (although that does seem overdue -- and now I guess I'm just a hater) -- but it's the abrupt canning of Steve Williams and Jerry Lewis that has everyone abuzz.
Speaking of being a hater, I'll admit to feeling a little dirty about this, but is it wrong that I'm routing for Adam Scott to keep up the good work today just because he's employed Stevie on the bag now that Tiger's dumped him. (And, continuing in that hateful theme -- wasn't that the longest relationship that Tiger's ever had with anyone of any gender?)
And I can't bring myself to apply any level of snark to the MDA telethon situation. Maybe there's much more to be said, and I'll admit that it's selfish, but I'll miss the usual Labor Day tradition in its historical form with its historical host. Regardless -- it has to be about the kids, and anything that distracts from the fundraising mission just can't be tolerated, so I hope that "this too shall pass" prevails as a guiding factor for all involved.
LET's BE HONEST, NOTHING HE EVER DOES AGAIN WILL LOOK THE SAME:
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/section/blogs?blogID=golf&plckController=Blog&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&uid=1038cbce-64f9-45c9-b3ee-37c53aee6aa4&plckPostId=Blog%3A1038cbce-64f9-45c9-b3ee-37c53aee6aa4Post%3Ae69c30a2-e862-4352-bba7-f29cb1f89a28&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest
COULD IT SOON BE ANOTHER CASUALTY OF REALITY TELEVISION?:
http://insidetv.ew.com/2011/08/03/jerry-lewis-will-not-host-2011s-mda-telethon/
SAYS OZZIE: "I DON'T GIVE A [EXPLETIVE] IF I GET FIRED":
http://espn.go.com/chicago/mlb/story/_/id/6774021/ozzie-guillen-says-chicago-white-sox-fire-poor-first-half
August 6, 2011
Random Soapbox for Saturday 8/6/11
I don't mean to go off on a rant here, but ...
... is the bond rating mess just grade inflation at it's worst?
I mean I'm no economist and my personal relationship with money isn't going to impress any Suze Ormans out there, but when I heard that our country's triple AAA rating was being downgraded -- my concern turned into a chuckle-fit when I heard that our new classification was ... AA+.
Oh I'm sure there are consequences for this action and it's inspired another round of talking heads with their talking points in the blame game that has replaced leadership from any party on any side -- but AA+ doesn't sound that apocalyptic.
It just reminds me of how 93 used to be the cut-off for an A when I was in school, until the grading scale underwent some kind of metric conversion or dumbing down of the numbers to 10 point increments. Then suddenly, A's were more prevalent, and the kids who used to derive self-worth from A's had to strive for A+s or perfect scores or always do the extra credit that was offered just to separate themselves from the new 'A' kids on the block (not that I'm bitter or elitist or an out-of-touch overachiever or anything).
Of course, when a two trillion dollar error can have no effect on the organization's decision (really -- plus or minus 2,000,000,000,000 doesn't matter?), then I guess we're not necessarily dealing with all that much that makes sense to me anyway. If I have to conceptualize it to internalize it, then, in my mind, I'll just think of our current credit status as that of a well-performing Alcoholics Anonymous member -- except that if debt is our "sauce", we're never going to get ourselves a sober token.
Dare I say -- is this the death knoll for LBJ's Great Society? (I think I got a 'B' on the paper I wrote on that presidential policy launch way back when -- although, if I resubmit it, perhaps it can be bumped up to a higher category in today's world!)
THE SOVEREIGN CREDIT RATING PRIMER:
http://www.politonomist.com/sovereign-credit-ratings-revealed-002626/
THE OLD GRADING SYSTEM STILL EXISTS IN SOME POCKETS:
http://www.nola.com/news/index.ssf/2008/04/jefferson_to_consider_lowering.html
WHY 1964 WAS CALLED "ONE OF THE TOP 10 ELECTIONS" BY TIME:
http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,1856551_1856544_1856536,00.html
... is the bond rating mess just grade inflation at it's worst?
I mean I'm no economist and my personal relationship with money isn't going to impress any Suze Ormans out there, but when I heard that our country's triple AAA rating was being downgraded -- my concern turned into a chuckle-fit when I heard that our new classification was ... AA+.
Oh I'm sure there are consequences for this action and it's inspired another round of talking heads with their talking points in the blame game that has replaced leadership from any party on any side -- but AA+ doesn't sound that apocalyptic.
It just reminds me of how 93 used to be the cut-off for an A when I was in school, until the grading scale underwent some kind of metric conversion or dumbing down of the numbers to 10 point increments. Then suddenly, A's were more prevalent, and the kids who used to derive self-worth from A's had to strive for A+s or perfect scores or always do the extra credit that was offered just to separate themselves from the new 'A' kids on the block (not that I'm bitter or elitist or an out-of-touch overachiever or anything).
Of course, when a two trillion dollar error can have no effect on the organization's decision (really -- plus or minus 2,000,000,000,000 doesn't matter?), then I guess we're not necessarily dealing with all that much that makes sense to me anyway. If I have to conceptualize it to internalize it, then, in my mind, I'll just think of our current credit status as that of a well-performing Alcoholics Anonymous member -- except that if debt is our "sauce", we're never going to get ourselves a sober token.
Dare I say -- is this the death knoll for LBJ's Great Society? (I think I got a 'B' on the paper I wrote on that presidential policy launch way back when -- although, if I resubmit it, perhaps it can be bumped up to a higher category in today's world!)
THE SOVEREIGN CREDIT RATING PRIMER:
http://www.politonomist.com/sovereign-credit-ratings-revealed-002626/
THE OLD GRADING SYSTEM STILL EXISTS IN SOME POCKETS:
http://www.nola.com/news/index.ssf/2008/04/jefferson_to_consider_lowering.html
WHY 1964 WAS CALLED "ONE OF THE TOP 10 ELECTIONS" BY TIME:
http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,1856551_1856544_1856536,00.html
August 5, 2011
Random Flashback for Friday 8/5/11
It was a birthday party 20 years ago this week!
And how do you balance a plate full of healthy crudité? With not one -- but TWO birthday cakes!
It's not polite to tell someone's age, so I'll have to leave the math part of this up to you (hint -- we can pretend that's a #10 on that cake, if that's more socially acceptable).
All jokes aside, Judy Woodward became my surrogate mother (I ran away from home before I was 18, so her generosity of spirit and guidance played a key role in my early development, irrespective of the legal role she played in that (ad)venture), and I will always be grateful for the love that she bestowed on me -- in that difficult time and in the many so-much-more- pleasant years that followed.
[I've been blessed to have had the privilege to extend the reaches of those I consider family many-fold in my life so far.]
Happy Belated Birthday, Mom (Woodward)!
August 4, 2011
Random Thought for Thursday 8/4/11
The conversation, after I deciphered the thick accent on the other end of the line, went like this:
HER: We found a skin tear on one of his toes.
ME: What?
HER: We found a skin tear on one of his toes.
ME: This is a strange phone call.
HER: Ralph.
ME: This is Troy.
HER: On Ralph's toe. We found a skin tear.
ME: Okay.
HER: Good night.
ME: Wait ... that's it? That's the only reason you called?
HER: We have to inform you.
ME: Okay. So is he bleeding out?
HER: No, we took care of it.
ME: Well then, kiss it and make it all better.
HER: (Laugh.) Okay.
The context -- the nursing home where my biological father now resides is apparently obligated to inform me every time they find something that others might interpret as abuse. I imagine they are covering themselves legally -- but this seems like a really minor update to provide me, halfway across the country, by a random out of the blue phone call with little context provided.
I guess I just have to hope that the next phone call isn't the one that tells me they are cutting it off!
HIS PLACE IS WONDERFUL, BUT BE WARNED:
http://www.nursinghomealert.com/recognitionofabuse/otherwarningsigns.html
FILIPINOS HAVE SUED FOR DISCRIMINATION BASED ON THICK ACCENTS:
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/global-filipino/03/02/11/filipino-nurse-says-hospital-bribed-him-stay-quiet
SO NOW THAT I'VE SEEN PICTURES, MAYBE IT'S WORSE THAN I THOUGHT!:
http://www.woundcarespray.com/25/elderly-skin-tear/
HER: We found a skin tear on one of his toes.
ME: What?
HER: We found a skin tear on one of his toes.
ME: This is a strange phone call.
HER: Ralph.
ME: This is Troy.
HER: On Ralph's toe. We found a skin tear.
ME: Okay.
HER: Good night.
ME: Wait ... that's it? That's the only reason you called?
HER: We have to inform you.
ME: Okay. So is he bleeding out?
HER: No, we took care of it.
ME: Well then, kiss it and make it all better.
HER: (Laugh.) Okay.
The context -- the nursing home where my biological father now resides is apparently obligated to inform me every time they find something that others might interpret as abuse. I imagine they are covering themselves legally -- but this seems like a really minor update to provide me, halfway across the country, by a random out of the blue phone call with little context provided.
I guess I just have to hope that the next phone call isn't the one that tells me they are cutting it off!
HIS PLACE IS WONDERFUL, BUT BE WARNED:
http://www.nursinghomealert.com/recognitionofabuse/otherwarningsigns.html
FILIPINOS HAVE SUED FOR DISCRIMINATION BASED ON THICK ACCENTS:
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/global-filipino/03/02/11/filipino-nurse-says-hospital-bribed-him-stay-quiet
SO NOW THAT I'VE SEEN PICTURES, MAYBE IT'S WORSE THAN I THOUGHT!:
http://www.woundcarespray.com/25/elderly-skin-tear/
August 3, 2011
Random Wordplay for Wednesday 8/3/11
Horsie-corn.
Used in a sentence: "I'm just beyond the equi-distant point from season finale to season premier as it relates to some of my favorite prime time network comedies, and I could use a 22 minute laugh-out-loud break about now, so I am missing them so ... but at least I have the memory of the genius of 30 Rock that gave us the Horsie-Corn this past season (it's a unicorn with the head of a horse)!"
I just have to be a little more patient, and soon I'll have my must see TV (TH nights on NBC), and my multiple Chuck Lorre laugh fests spread out across the CBS schedule (even if one will kick off with a main character's funeral), and my "daresn't eat while you watch for fear of choking while guffawing" WED night ABC block and the hilarity of Greg Garcia's latest -- Raising Hope on FOX.
[If only I could get a job watching TV -- after all, I'm unbiased in the way I spread around my love ...]
THANKS TO TWITTER, CAPTURED IN TIME (& NOW AT THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS:
http://twitter.com/#!/ThorayaER/status/52126343860723712
WARNING -- ADULT HUMOR AHEAD (NOT SAFE FOR WORK):
http://www.cracked.com/funny-1209-unicorn/
BUT IT MAY BE DEAD OVERSEAS, IF FB IS TO BE BELIEVED:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sitcom-is-Not-Dead-We-want-more/148071155240632
Used in a sentence: "I'm just beyond the equi-distant point from season finale to season premier as it relates to some of my favorite prime time network comedies, and I could use a 22 minute laugh-out-loud break about now, so I am missing them so ... but at least I have the memory of the genius of 30 Rock that gave us the Horsie-Corn this past season (it's a unicorn with the head of a horse)!"
I just have to be a little more patient, and soon I'll have my must see TV (TH nights on NBC), and my multiple Chuck Lorre laugh fests spread out across the CBS schedule (even if one will kick off with a main character's funeral), and my "daresn't eat while you watch for fear of choking while guffawing" WED night ABC block and the hilarity of Greg Garcia's latest -- Raising Hope on FOX.
[If only I could get a job watching TV -- after all, I'm unbiased in the way I spread around my love ...]
THANKS TO TWITTER, CAPTURED IN TIME (& NOW AT THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS:
http://twitter.com/#!/ThorayaER/status/52126343860723712
WARNING -- ADULT HUMOR AHEAD (NOT SAFE FOR WORK):
http://www.cracked.com/funny-1209-unicorn/
BUT IT MAY BE DEAD OVERSEAS, IF FB IS TO BE BELIEVED:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sitcom-is-Not-Dead-We-want-more/148071155240632
August 2, 2011
Random Tune for Tuesday 8/2/11
Bob, you asked for it (I think authentically, and not facetiously) in a comment last week ... so here it is (even if these are more likely to be on an 8 track than on one of my old cassettes) ... three times the random tuneage from Mr. Michael Anthony Orlando Cassivitis (with Urkel's aunt in the background, of course). I still see me a little Tony O on the Jerry Lewis telethon each year (and I hope I will this Labor Day, assuming that he's not trimmed out of the radically reduced six hour event) -- but this fan's animation on two of the three takes this to a whole 'nother level and makes these videos extra special.
TWICE ON THE PIPE (CLAP, CLAP) IF THE ANSWER IS NO:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emvVDC1-bwI
I THOUGHT HE WAS COMING BACK FROM THE MILITARY, NOT OUT OF PRISON?:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TSq-XvpVaE&feature=watch_response
SADLY, NO ANIMATION FOR THIS ONE ... :
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WROdwlk9_h8
TWICE ON THE PIPE (CLAP, CLAP) IF THE ANSWER IS NO:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emvVDC1-bwI
I THOUGHT HE WAS COMING BACK FROM THE MILITARY, NOT OUT OF PRISON?:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TSq-XvpVaE&feature=watch_response
SADLY, NO ANIMATION FOR THIS ONE ... :
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WROdwlk9_h8
August 1, 2011
Random Memorial for Monday 8/1/11
Gone but not forgotten: the space shuttle flights.
I recognize I'm a week or two late, but I have to admit that I will miss hearing about our regular space flights (especially considering that our current financial morass means we won't be headed back to the moon or anywhere else any time soon). The loss of Challenger was a defining moment (and, until 9/11, what I thought would be my generation's answer to knowing exactly where you were when JFK was shot) in 9th grade for me (and Columbia's disintegration was a bit more low key but just as painful) ... and I've spoken before of how so many of my life's scientific advances were connected back to the cutting edge space shuttle technology (excluding 'o'rings and insulation chunks, of course).
I even recently uncovered my IEP for 7th grade, when I actually submitted a stamp design to the post office honoring the anniversary of the first flight (it was rejected, and a strikingly similar design was released years later -- I'm just sayin').
Even more so now that Chicago won't get a retired one for our museum campus, space shuttle -- you will be missed.
FL, VA, NY and CA -- NONE NEAR ME!:
http://www.cnn.com/2011/US/04/12/space.shuttle.new.homes/index.html
IF I COULD FIGURE OUT MY SCANNER, I'D PROVE THE SIMILARITY:
http://www.collectiblestampsgallery.com/proddetail.asp?prod=SP24
NOW COMPETING FOR 'WHERE WERE YOU ON 9/11" IMPORTANCE:
http://abcnews.go.com/WNT/video/space-shuttle-challenger-disaster-tragedy-nasa-explosion-aniversary-ship-rocket-12790478
I recognize I'm a week or two late, but I have to admit that I will miss hearing about our regular space flights (especially considering that our current financial morass means we won't be headed back to the moon or anywhere else any time soon). The loss of Challenger was a defining moment (and, until 9/11, what I thought would be my generation's answer to knowing exactly where you were when JFK was shot) in 9th grade for me (and Columbia's disintegration was a bit more low key but just as painful) ... and I've spoken before of how so many of my life's scientific advances were connected back to the cutting edge space shuttle technology (excluding 'o'rings and insulation chunks, of course).
I even recently uncovered my IEP for 7th grade, when I actually submitted a stamp design to the post office honoring the anniversary of the first flight (it was rejected, and a strikingly similar design was released years later -- I'm just sayin').
Even more so now that Chicago won't get a retired one for our museum campus, space shuttle -- you will be missed.
FL, VA, NY and CA -- NONE NEAR ME!:
http://www.cnn.com/2011/US/04/12/space.shuttle.new.homes/index.html
IF I COULD FIGURE OUT MY SCANNER, I'D PROVE THE SIMILARITY:
http://www.collectiblestampsgallery.com/proddetail.asp?prod=SP24
NOW COMPETING FOR 'WHERE WERE YOU ON 9/11" IMPORTANCE:
http://abcnews.go.com/WNT/video/space-shuttle-challenger-disaster-tragedy-nasa-explosion-aniversary-ship-rocket-12790478
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