So, when an actor or actress isn't quite loading the shelves with golden statues, what do they do? Well, there's always the romantic comedies, TV, or they try becoming rock stars. Here, the inverse is also true. When not decorating the walls with black circly thingies, they try their hand at acting. I'm not sure which is worse. Except today. Today, actors that sing is worse. Check out Scarlett Johansson's . . . attempt at singing:
Falling Down
Wow. Sorry to have put you through that.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Paula's trancing
If you watched AI last night, you witnessed a paranormal event . . . Paula reported on two performances of Jason Castro, though he had only performed once! She must have been visioning into the future!
It was quite hilarious. Because the finalists were performing two songs, and the show was only an hour long, the judges waited on their commentary until all the performers had sung. This clearly threw Paula off. Even as others tried to explain to her that Jason had only sung once, she was confused. Everyone was a bit uncomfortable at that point. The simply had to move on. I don't think she ever got it. She tried to explain that it was her notes that had confused her . . . she was reading ahead from David Cook's performance notes. But, that didn't make sense as she came back to give David high praise as opposed to the lackluster judging she gave Jason's "apparent" second performance.
Look up "ditz" on Wiki and who's picture will be there?
Probably many. But Paula officially joins that list.
It was quite hilarious. Because the finalists were performing two songs, and the show was only an hour long, the judges waited on their commentary until all the performers had sung. This clearly threw Paula off. Even as others tried to explain to her that Jason had only sung once, she was confused. Everyone was a bit uncomfortable at that point. The simply had to move on. I don't think she ever got it. She tried to explain that it was her notes that had confused her . . . she was reading ahead from David Cook's performance notes. But, that didn't make sense as she came back to give David high praise as opposed to the lackluster judging she gave Jason's "apparent" second performance.
Look up "ditz" on Wiki and who's picture will be there?
Probably many. But Paula officially joins that list.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Van F*cking Halen
When I heard the news that Van Halen was reuniting with David Lee Roth, I was excited. While I have always thought Sammy Hagar was the perfect choice as their frontman replacement, it put to rest years of great music that had Roth's trademark style all over it. Other groups just move on, playing the songs that made them famous in the first place. Sammy sang a few of David's songs. But it really didn't compare.
The tour started late last year. Everything I was reading was good. Real good. Surprisingly good. These guys are in their 50's! How good could it be?
God damn rock on f*ckin' good is how.
Van Halen just completed two and half hours of rocking their music, their way, as if it were 38 years ago. No one has anything on these guys.
My wife and I ate at Elsa's prior to the show. There was an opening act. It started at 7:30. I figure VH would be on at 9:00 and we'd be home around 11:00. Wrong. We missed the first couple of songs. They started about 8:30 and played to about 11:00.
It was incredible! David Lee Roth is an amazing guy. First, his voice . . . if he was a 10 38 years ago, he was a 9 tonight. He sounded incredible. Energetic, funny, smiling constantly . . . he didn't do quite the amount of karate kicks, but he did do them. At one point he opened his shirt . . . god damn him. You could put a 25 year olds head on his body and you'd have a close to perfect man. Rock hard, cut, toned . . . damn him. If anything, I've got him on hair. All of them, though, were age appropriate. Nick looking, clean, sharp.
Eddie was a little more subdued than he's been in the past. Between age and having his hips replaced, it's no wonder. But there was nothing wrong with his fingers. Eddie reminded us all night not only what a pioneer he's been to the Van Halen sound, but that he'd still kick anyone's ass on guitar. He moved and jumped a bit throughout the night. But my feeling is that the warranty has runout on the hips and he's not taking any chances.
Alex is Eddie's OLDER brother. Which mean he's around 55! Quite simply put, no one has told him that, yet, and it doesn't show. Neil Pert might still be considered on of rock's greatest drummers, but Alex is right behind him. His solo was amazing.
Then there's Wolfie. Wolfgang Van Halen. 16 year old son of Eddie. OK. I understand 50 isn't THAT old, that there's still a lot of life left in a person, an ability to perform and entertain. But there's the opposite end of that spectrum. Noobs don't have the years of experience, of playing and perfecting, of playing the crowd, of lasting the night! 16? Well, let me put it this way . . .
Michael who?
The kid is awesome. Really good. Both on bass and vocally, too. He had one short solo during the night. He nailed it good.
26 songs later and it looked like most people left the Bradley Center in shock . . . happy . . . but amazed. Amazed that somehow they had aged, but Van Halen did not. It was a good crowd. About 90% full and rockin' throughout.
And with good reason. Van Halen gave a lesson in rock music tonight. They gave a lesson in performing, being cool, being hot, and getting down with it. They were awesome!
The tour started late last year. Everything I was reading was good. Real good. Surprisingly good. These guys are in their 50's! How good could it be?
God damn rock on f*ckin' good is how.
Van Halen just completed two and half hours of rocking their music, their way, as if it were 38 years ago. No one has anything on these guys.
My wife and I ate at Elsa's prior to the show. There was an opening act. It started at 7:30. I figure VH would be on at 9:00 and we'd be home around 11:00. Wrong. We missed the first couple of songs. They started about 8:30 and played to about 11:00.
It was incredible! David Lee Roth is an amazing guy. First, his voice . . . if he was a 10 38 years ago, he was a 9 tonight. He sounded incredible. Energetic, funny, smiling constantly . . . he didn't do quite the amount of karate kicks, but he did do them. At one point he opened his shirt . . . god damn him. You could put a 25 year olds head on his body and you'd have a close to perfect man. Rock hard, cut, toned . . . damn him. If anything, I've got him on hair. All of them, though, were age appropriate. Nick looking, clean, sharp.
Eddie was a little more subdued than he's been in the past. Between age and having his hips replaced, it's no wonder. But there was nothing wrong with his fingers. Eddie reminded us all night not only what a pioneer he's been to the Van Halen sound, but that he'd still kick anyone's ass on guitar. He moved and jumped a bit throughout the night. But my feeling is that the warranty has runout on the hips and he's not taking any chances.
Alex is Eddie's OLDER brother. Which mean he's around 55! Quite simply put, no one has told him that, yet, and it doesn't show. Neil Pert might still be considered on of rock's greatest drummers, but Alex is right behind him. His solo was amazing.
Then there's Wolfie. Wolfgang Van Halen. 16 year old son of Eddie. OK. I understand 50 isn't THAT old, that there's still a lot of life left in a person, an ability to perform and entertain. But there's the opposite end of that spectrum. Noobs don't have the years of experience, of playing and perfecting, of playing the crowd, of lasting the night! 16? Well, let me put it this way . . .
Michael who?
The kid is awesome. Really good. Both on bass and vocally, too. He had one short solo during the night. He nailed it good.
26 songs later and it looked like most people left the Bradley Center in shock . . . happy . . . but amazed. Amazed that somehow they had aged, but Van Halen did not. It was a good crowd. About 90% full and rockin' throughout.
And with good reason. Van Halen gave a lesson in rock music tonight. They gave a lesson in performing, being cool, being hot, and getting down with it. They were awesome!
You Really Got Me . . . stoked!
OK, this might not help my dorkdom much but I'm seeing Van Halen tonight. I'm stoked. From everything I've read the band is good . . . tight. Their set list is a Van Halen fan of the past dream come true. 26 songs in all. Wow. I can't wait. But wait I must and take care of this nagging little detail . . . work.
So the little one goes to her auntie Mimi's while the wife and I have our extended 80's moment. In addition to the band, I can't wait to see the crowd.
Panama!
So the little one goes to her auntie Mimi's while the wife and I have our extended 80's moment. In addition to the band, I can't wait to see the crowd.
Panama!
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Packer draft
I think the Packers did real well with this draft. Considering it wasn't a real strong draft year, and considering the Packers have few "weak" spots, and considering you've got to take what you can get at times, they did well. I've been saying for a while now that the Packers need a gazelle type receiver . . . another Lofton. They may have gotten that with Gordy Nelson. 6'3", 217, he's a load. Not the fastest guy on the field but runs good routes and catches well. While the Packers are rather flush with receivers, having a 6'3" guy could really causes some problems for secondaries. A good draft.
Scouts say Brian Brohm is the only game ready player in the draft. That may be a good thing if Rogers really is made of glass and the Packers don't pick up a veteran QB in free agency. A good build for the future pick.
Patrick Lee looks like a good pick. I think most agree the Packers need help in the secondary. This guy is physical. His numbers are good. A nice pick.
Jermichael Finley seems like a receiving TE. 6'5", 248. He's a little bigger than Lee and he might be faster. Packers need an impact TE. This could be that guy.
Jeremy Thompson DE. Packers needed help in the secondary and on the defensive line. They could still use an inside lineman . . . a good one, but they've also needed some help at DE. KGB is good, but he's no Reggie White. Jeremy isn't likely to be either, but this is a good pick up.
Ted shored up some offensive line picks which I thought were good. Quite honestly, there's a lot of competition there but these picks look good.
So, what do we think the Packers needed? A quarterback. They got it. Secondary help. They got it. D line help. They got it. A tight end. They got it. In my opinion they don't need a running back, linebackers, kickers, or really O linemen. Back ups and future build are always welcome. I think Gordy is a real find. He could be an impact player this year. So over all I think Ted did a very good job.
Scouts say Brian Brohm is the only game ready player in the draft. That may be a good thing if Rogers really is made of glass and the Packers don't pick up a veteran QB in free agency. A good build for the future pick.
Patrick Lee looks like a good pick. I think most agree the Packers need help in the secondary. This guy is physical. His numbers are good. A nice pick.
Jermichael Finley seems like a receiving TE. 6'5", 248. He's a little bigger than Lee and he might be faster. Packers need an impact TE. This could be that guy.
Jeremy Thompson DE. Packers needed help in the secondary and on the defensive line. They could still use an inside lineman . . . a good one, but they've also needed some help at DE. KGB is good, but he's no Reggie White. Jeremy isn't likely to be either, but this is a good pick up.
Ted shored up some offensive line picks which I thought were good. Quite honestly, there's a lot of competition there but these picks look good.
So, what do we think the Packers needed? A quarterback. They got it. Secondary help. They got it. D line help. They got it. A tight end. They got it. In my opinion they don't need a running back, linebackers, kickers, or really O linemen. Back ups and future build are always welcome. I think Gordy is a real find. He could be an impact player this year. So over all I think Ted did a very good job.
Friday, April 25, 2008
My Top 10
THis is harder than it seems. First, there are many good looking, "babe quality" women out there. Narrowing it down to 10 is tough. Plus, you sometimes have to separate the personality from the image. So, understand, these picks are purely aesthetic.
10. Jennifer Aniston
9. Winona Ryder
8. Elizabeth Hurley
7. Keeley Hazel
6. Lindsay Lohan
5. Maria Menonous
4. Emmanuel Chriqui
3. Kim Smith
2. Jennifer Love Hewitt
1. Kate Beckinsale
A closer look and you'll notice no one real young, and no blondes. Perhaps it's my own age, but I find most people improve a bit with age. Sure, there are some things (ahem) that make it tough for a 40 year old to compete with a 20 year old on, but over all a little . . . maturity is good. As for the blonde thing . . . don't get the wrong impression. There are plenty o hot blondes. Elisha Cuthbert comes to mind. Kristen Bell, another. But my taste just leans brunette.
And yours?
What about you women? Who are your top ten guys?
10. Jennifer Aniston
9. Winona Ryder
8. Elizabeth Hurley
7. Keeley Hazel
6. Lindsay Lohan
5. Maria Menonous
4. Emmanuel Chriqui
3. Kim Smith
2. Jennifer Love Hewitt
1. Kate Beckinsale
A closer look and you'll notice no one real young, and no blondes. Perhaps it's my own age, but I find most people improve a bit with age. Sure, there are some things (ahem) that make it tough for a 40 year old to compete with a 20 year old on, but over all a little . . . maturity is good. As for the blonde thing . . . don't get the wrong impression. There are plenty o hot blondes. Elisha Cuthbert comes to mind. Kristen Bell, another. But my taste just leans brunette.
And yours?
What about you women? Who are your top ten guys?
FHM 100 Sexiest
So, the much anticipated list and issue is finally out. FHM's top 100 sexiest Women of 2008. The list is compiled from guys from the world over who logged on and voted. I voted. One girl made the list. No surprise. There's no accounting for taste. Here is FHM's top 10:
10. Keira Knightley. Cute. Waaaaaaaaay too skinny.
9. Angelina Jolie. Does absolutely nothing for me. Probably wouldn't make my top 100.
8. Hillary Duff. WTF?!?! Give me a frickin' break.
7. Cheryl Cole. Pop tart wannabe. Cute. But wouldn't make my list. Can't slam the choice though.
6. Scarlett Johansson. Other than her obvious assets, she doesn't do much for me.
5. Hayden Panettiere. Cute, but that's about it.
4. Elisha Cuthbert. Can't slam this choice. I like her.
3. Keeley Hazel. Now we're talking. She's in my top 10.
2. Jessica Alba. Does nothing for me.
1. Megan Fox. I thought she was pretty hot in Transformers, but number one? Not even close.
What IS my top 10?
Later.
Who would be in your top 10?
10. Keira Knightley. Cute. Waaaaaaaaay too skinny.
9. Angelina Jolie. Does absolutely nothing for me. Probably wouldn't make my top 100.
8. Hillary Duff. WTF?!?! Give me a frickin' break.
7. Cheryl Cole. Pop tart wannabe. Cute. But wouldn't make my list. Can't slam the choice though.
6. Scarlett Johansson. Other than her obvious assets, she doesn't do much for me.
5. Hayden Panettiere. Cute, but that's about it.
4. Elisha Cuthbert. Can't slam this choice. I like her.
3. Keeley Hazel. Now we're talking. She's in my top 10.
2. Jessica Alba. Does nothing for me.
1. Megan Fox. I thought she was pretty hot in Transformers, but number one? Not even close.
What IS my top 10?
Later.
Who would be in your top 10?
Celebridiot of the Day
I understand we all have our causes and many celebridorks have theirs. This is good. Nothing wrong with that. They make all kinds of money for having little talent (in most cases) so why not give back? I’m all for it. While not a fan of Angie Jolie, she’s putting her pocketbook where her rather large mouth is. Good for her. It’s nice she can find other ways to look down her nose at the rest of the world.
But, some people take their causes a little . . . hmm . . . over board, should I say? Hayden Panettiere’s little stint in Japan about the dolphins seemed a bit uninformed while worthy. Then there’s Martin Sheen who always seems to show up at some protest to get arrested.
Today, though, we have Harrison Ford. I used to like Harrison. During his Star Wars and Indiana Jones years he was fun to watch. Something happened to him, though. I blame it on that human toothpick sparrow-faced Calista Flockhart. Instead of growing older with dignity, Harrison did what many hollywood women do, become pathetic. Harrison doned the cover of Redbook magazine a few years back in what has to be one of the girliest picture ever taken of a man. He’s also not a very good actor. Sure, he did well with his action roles, but none of his “serious” stuff has any real credibility.
Anyway . . . he’s also a conservationist. Now, I don’t want to get anyone riled. But there are conservationists, and there are kooks. You tell me:
What? I really need for someone to explain to me the relationship between having you chest hairs waxed and deforestation.
No, really. I mean it.
Read the rest of the laugh here.
But, some people take their causes a little . . . hmm . . . over board, should I say? Hayden Panettiere’s little stint in Japan about the dolphins seemed a bit uninformed while worthy. Then there’s Martin Sheen who always seems to show up at some protest to get arrested.
Today, though, we have Harrison Ford. I used to like Harrison. During his Star Wars and Indiana Jones years he was fun to watch. Something happened to him, though. I blame it on that human toothpick sparrow-faced Calista Flockhart. Instead of growing older with dignity, Harrison did what many hollywood women do, become pathetic. Harrison doned the cover of Redbook magazine a few years back in what has to be one of the girliest picture ever taken of a man. He’s also not a very good actor. Sure, he did well with his action roles, but none of his “serious” stuff has any real credibility.
Anyway . . . he’s also a conservationist. Now, I don’t want to get anyone riled. But there are conservationists, and there are kooks. You tell me:
Harrison invited Access Hollywood and our guest correspondent Mel B exclusively along as he embarked
on a personal project to promote going green.
And just how did Harrison, who is the vice chair of the global environment group Conservation International
want to get his message across?
By waxing his chest, of course.
What? I really need for someone to explain to me the relationship between having you chest hairs waxed and deforestation.
No, really. I mean it.
Read the rest of the laugh here.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
MPS Busing cuts
Busing for MPS students will be cut by more than two thirds for the '09 - '10 school year for a savings of about 20 million dollars. The article is here.
It's easy to have an immediate reaction to this. For many parents, how they get their children to the school they want them to attend is going to be more difficult.
But, there are several other issues with regard to this that make this a good thing. First, there are a few instances where a bus travels over 20 miles with 2 kids aboard. That's ridiculous. A huge waste of money.
Second, Andrekopoulos has been pushing for a return to neighborhood schools. This would help that cause. Granted, it forces the issue, but part of that issue was money savings.
Third, it frees up the money for other things. As I've posted before, MGIS is losing their PhyEd and Music teachers. They've already lost their Art teacher. Granted, part of the problem is money allocation, and not simply amount of money. But saving on busing cost is one way to handle the over all budget problem.
I could mention that this is a "green" initiative. Buses not only pour a lot of emission in to the air, but they do it for greater distances and for longer periods of time. Returning to neighborhood schools would mean less emissions. Add to that the price of gas . . .
But I doubt anyone will bring that up in the discussion.
The other good thing that may come from this . . . local schools will improve. With no choice but to send a child to a nearby school parents will demand that schools improve. Which they should. While I support this measure, I'd hate to see students and their parents feel as though they're losing out because they have to go to a school that they feel isn't as good as where they've been going.
Lastly, MPS needs to make improvements across the board so that all schools are good. Not just a few. Further, while there may still be those parents who want to send their children to a certain school, I don't think it's the responsibility of MPS to act as a charter service for every desire. Understandably, this is a give and take situation.
It's a small start, but it's a start.
It's easy to have an immediate reaction to this. For many parents, how they get their children to the school they want them to attend is going to be more difficult.
But, there are several other issues with regard to this that make this a good thing. First, there are a few instances where a bus travels over 20 miles with 2 kids aboard. That's ridiculous. A huge waste of money.
Second, Andrekopoulos has been pushing for a return to neighborhood schools. This would help that cause. Granted, it forces the issue, but part of that issue was money savings.
Third, it frees up the money for other things. As I've posted before, MGIS is losing their PhyEd and Music teachers. They've already lost their Art teacher. Granted, part of the problem is money allocation, and not simply amount of money. But saving on busing cost is one way to handle the over all budget problem.
I could mention that this is a "green" initiative. Buses not only pour a lot of emission in to the air, but they do it for greater distances and for longer periods of time. Returning to neighborhood schools would mean less emissions. Add to that the price of gas . . .
But I doubt anyone will bring that up in the discussion.
The other good thing that may come from this . . . local schools will improve. With no choice but to send a child to a nearby school parents will demand that schools improve. Which they should. While I support this measure, I'd hate to see students and their parents feel as though they're losing out because they have to go to a school that they feel isn't as good as where they've been going.
Lastly, MPS needs to make improvements across the board so that all schools are good. Not just a few. Further, while there may still be those parents who want to send their children to a certain school, I don't think it's the responsibility of MPS to act as a charter service for every desire. Understandably, this is a give and take situation.
It's a small start, but it's a start.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Hillary Wins PA
Oh, this just gets better and better. Obama did all he could to suppress the vote, but it didn't work.
Middle America told Obama where to go.
Anyone for a whiskey?
I have to believe Obama is furious. I'm sure there was a time when he thought this was going to be a cake walk. Now, this presents huge problems for the democrats as many don't like the Clintons. And they believe Obama has a better chance at defeating McCain. Hillary ain't going away.
I still think Hillary could walk in to the Whitehouse if she dumped Bill right now. Of course, I hope she doesn't.
Add to this the fact that many conservatives are starting to come around to McCain and I think the Dems have some problems this election. Should McCain choose Rice as a running mate, if that's even possible . . . I now it's been talked about . . . he could win with better than 50% of the popular vote. There's some evidence he's gaining with Independent voters. Which means he could win pivotal states. Including Wisconsin.
For now, though, the circus that is the Democrat primary is like reality TV. Who will go home?
Middle America told Obama where to go.
Anyone for a whiskey?
I have to believe Obama is furious. I'm sure there was a time when he thought this was going to be a cake walk. Now, this presents huge problems for the democrats as many don't like the Clintons. And they believe Obama has a better chance at defeating McCain. Hillary ain't going away.
I still think Hillary could walk in to the Whitehouse if she dumped Bill right now. Of course, I hope she doesn't.
Add to this the fact that many conservatives are starting to come around to McCain and I think the Dems have some problems this election. Should McCain choose Rice as a running mate, if that's even possible . . . I now it's been talked about . . . he could win with better than 50% of the popular vote. There's some evidence he's gaining with Independent voters. Which means he could win pivotal states. Including Wisconsin.
For now, though, the circus that is the Democrat primary is like reality TV. Who will go home?
5150?
It's interesting to find out why people use the screen names they do. Be it for email or other online stuff, there's usually a story behind the name. Of course, you need something no one else has. At least not at the sites you need to provide a name at. Then, it seems most people pick a screen name that defines them somewhat. Mine does. And it's perfect.
First off, 5150 is the title of a Van Halen album (CD). As I'm a huge Van Halen fan, a guitarist, and a rock and roll kinda guy, it was perfect. Jimi5150.
But there's more.
5150 is also the police call for . . . mental person. Yep, when a 5150 call is made over the radio it's time to put away the guns and get out the big net and call the guys in the white coats.
Perfect.
First off, 5150 is the title of a Van Halen album (CD). As I'm a huge Van Halen fan, a guitarist, and a rock and roll kinda guy, it was perfect. Jimi5150.
But there's more.
5150 is also the police call for . . . mental person. Yep, when a 5150 call is made over the radio it's time to put away the guns and get out the big net and call the guys in the white coats.
Perfect.
American Idol
I read a couple of things in the paper about AI that caught my interest. The first issue is the declining viewership. To me, that's easy . . .
GET ON WITH IT ALREADY!
They waste sooooo much time on that show. There's no reason for the show to be 90 minutes long once they reach the finals. There is so much filler crap it is hard to watch live. The only reason I watch live is because Dan at the D Spot live blogs it. Otherwise it's perfect for the DVR.
The other issue is the artist choice for songs. Beatles, Dolly Parton, Mariah Carey . . . ? Personally, I would prefer they just switch the genre each week to see how they do. Rock, Country, R&B, that sort of thing. Even then, I don't see why they just don't let the singers perform to their strengths. Kristi, who just got the boot, isn't going to become a pop star. She's country through and through. Same with Brooke. She's not about to become the next Pink. Why force them into situations they're not comfortable with? After all, since they gravitate to a particular genre, wouldn't you want to know that they bankable in that genre?
Lastly, there was an article that thinks the big prize is for Archuleta to lose. What? He's got a good voice. He does have broad appeal. But, give me a break . . . he's boring! Remember Clay Aiken? Exactly. In my opinion, and it's well seasoned in music, this year should belong to David Cook. Not only does he have a good voice, it's an interesting voice. Unique. A voice you could listen to for a while. I can't say that about Archie. Or any of the others, for that matter. Kristi will have some success as a country artist. But Jason, Syesha, and Carly . . . success? As what? Hard to say.
One thing is for sure, assuming the performers are actually voted on by the viewing public . . . there's no saying what will happen. Given the past record of voters, Archie may well win.
Too bad.
GET ON WITH IT ALREADY!
They waste sooooo much time on that show. There's no reason for the show to be 90 minutes long once they reach the finals. There is so much filler crap it is hard to watch live. The only reason I watch live is because Dan at the D Spot live blogs it. Otherwise it's perfect for the DVR.
The other issue is the artist choice for songs. Beatles, Dolly Parton, Mariah Carey . . . ? Personally, I would prefer they just switch the genre each week to see how they do. Rock, Country, R&B, that sort of thing. Even then, I don't see why they just don't let the singers perform to their strengths. Kristi, who just got the boot, isn't going to become a pop star. She's country through and through. Same with Brooke. She's not about to become the next Pink. Why force them into situations they're not comfortable with? After all, since they gravitate to a particular genre, wouldn't you want to know that they bankable in that genre?
Lastly, there was an article that thinks the big prize is for Archuleta to lose. What? He's got a good voice. He does have broad appeal. But, give me a break . . . he's boring! Remember Clay Aiken? Exactly. In my opinion, and it's well seasoned in music, this year should belong to David Cook. Not only does he have a good voice, it's an interesting voice. Unique. A voice you could listen to for a while. I can't say that about Archie. Or any of the others, for that matter. Kristi will have some success as a country artist. But Jason, Syesha, and Carly . . . success? As what? Hard to say.
One thing is for sure, assuming the performers are actually voted on by the viewing public . . . there's no saying what will happen. Given the past record of voters, Archie may well win.
Too bad.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Why I'm such a dork
I've admitted to watching Days of Our Lives like an idiot. Here's why . . .
Many years ago, my wife used to watch it. She'd tape it and watch it after work. At the time I thought it rather goofy. But it was difficult to ignore it in our small apartment at the time. One day it happened . . . "What happened to Tony?" I asked one day. Things move at a snails pace on Soaps so I started watching the Monday episodes. This was during the time when Tony's evil twin Andre was around . . . remember those days? Eugene and Calliope?
Anyway, I got hooked. We watched it for a good many years. Bo and Hope, Steve and Kayla, . . . up to about the time John Black came onto the scene. We got spotty after that. John Black was actually Roman, but became John Black again when the real Roman came back. Many of the regulars had left and we stopped watching.
Fast forward 20 years . . . yes, 20 years! I break my ankle and I'm in my hospital bed watching TV. It's noon so I decide to turn on Days. Just for giggles. I tune in to see Patch (Steve) working as a nurse taking care of Jack Devereaux, his brother. Jack has some illness and he's due to die soon. Patch doesn't know he's Steve as his memory has been erased by . . . who do you think? Stefano. Turns out the characters had recently returned after a 20 year hiatus! Of course, both were presumed dead. Kayla had gone on with her life and Jennifer was about to marry Frankie!
Bo and Hope had already returned. Now Steve, Kayla, Jack, Jennifer, and Stefano were all reappearing. Recently Tony and Anna came back. Ton had another evil twin. Only this time it was a cousin who had been surgically altered to look like Tony. I swear, Tony has spent more character time locked in a dungeon or stranded on an island more than he's be free.
Well, I considered it a sign. A sign that part of my recovery should be spent catching up with the characters I watched so many years ago. I've been watching for three years now. Only, there's DVR now. I can watch an entire week in about an hour.
So, that's the story. It's pathetic, I know. But it's hard to walk away from it with all these past characters back on.
Many years ago, my wife used to watch it. She'd tape it and watch it after work. At the time I thought it rather goofy. But it was difficult to ignore it in our small apartment at the time. One day it happened . . . "What happened to Tony?" I asked one day. Things move at a snails pace on Soaps so I started watching the Monday episodes. This was during the time when Tony's evil twin Andre was around . . . remember those days? Eugene and Calliope?
Anyway, I got hooked. We watched it for a good many years. Bo and Hope, Steve and Kayla, . . . up to about the time John Black came onto the scene. We got spotty after that. John Black was actually Roman, but became John Black again when the real Roman came back. Many of the regulars had left and we stopped watching.
Fast forward 20 years . . . yes, 20 years! I break my ankle and I'm in my hospital bed watching TV. It's noon so I decide to turn on Days. Just for giggles. I tune in to see Patch (Steve) working as a nurse taking care of Jack Devereaux, his brother. Jack has some illness and he's due to die soon. Patch doesn't know he's Steve as his memory has been erased by . . . who do you think? Stefano. Turns out the characters had recently returned after a 20 year hiatus! Of course, both were presumed dead. Kayla had gone on with her life and Jennifer was about to marry Frankie!
Bo and Hope had already returned. Now Steve, Kayla, Jack, Jennifer, and Stefano were all reappearing. Recently Tony and Anna came back. Ton had another evil twin. Only this time it was a cousin who had been surgically altered to look like Tony. I swear, Tony has spent more character time locked in a dungeon or stranded on an island more than he's be free.
Well, I considered it a sign. A sign that part of my recovery should be spent catching up with the characters I watched so many years ago. I've been watching for three years now. Only, there's DVR now. I can watch an entire week in about an hour.
So, that's the story. It's pathetic, I know. But it's hard to walk away from it with all these past characters back on.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Working at home . . . in bed!
As I've posted before, I live in Milwaukee but work in West Bend. Not bad, really. But, it's still 30 some miles and with gas prices being what they are, it's expensive. So, once a week or so, I work at home.
Well, I finally got around to loading my editing software on my laptop. I loaded the files I needed onto a notebook drive that can run off the firewire connection . . . and I can edit anywhere! So, for a while, I did! I spent the morning in my comfies editing in bed! What could be better? Had my coffee and a few shortbread Girl Scout cookies, had all the windows open to let in light and air, it was almost heaven.
Now if I could just get someone to bring me lunch . . .
Well, I finally got around to loading my editing software on my laptop. I loaded the files I needed onto a notebook drive that can run off the firewire connection . . . and I can edit anywhere! So, for a while, I did! I spent the morning in my comfies editing in bed! What could be better? Had my coffee and a few shortbread Girl Scout cookies, had all the windows open to let in light and air, it was almost heaven.
Now if I could just get someone to bring me lunch . . .
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
I'm a Mac, and I'm a PC
My sister used to work at Intel. At the time, if you were a Mac fan you had to hide that fact. There was no speaking of Macs and there was certainly no having Mac in the building. My sister told me that many went through great measures to hide their Mac from prying eyes. Getting caught literally got you fired.
I can only imagine the same would be true at IBM. Well, perhaps at one time, but no more. Apparently IBM has started embracing the Mac and its OS as a means of reducing the company's dependancy on Windows. The article is here.
It's actually a pilot program to gauge initial user response. The reasons given:
After the first phase of the program, they got this feedback:
So at IBM users felt the Mac was better than their own PC's? No surprise to me. I've used both and you couldn't pay me to own something I had to run Windows on. The best quote is this:
Welcome to freedom. Welcome to Macintosh.
I can only imagine the same would be true at IBM. Well, perhaps at one time, but no more. Apparently IBM has started embracing the Mac and its OS as a means of reducing the company's dependancy on Windows. The article is here.
It's actually a pilot program to gauge initial user response. The reasons given:
Alternative to Microsoft Windows
Less prone to security issues
Widely used in the academic world with which Research has close ties
Many new hires are more comfortable with the Mac and lately asking for it
Growing Mac community in Research and within IBM that finds the development environment on Mac more convenient
Growing acceptance of the Mac as a consumer and business oriented client platform
WPLC strategy includes significant investments in achieving the Mac platform parity
After the first phase of the program, they got this feedback:
Of the 22 of 24 who responded, 18 said that the Mac offered a “better or best experience” compared to their existing computer, one rated it “equal or good,” and three said the Mac offered a “worse experience.” Seven reported having no or marginal prior knowledge of using Macs, while 15 reported having moderate or expert knowledge of the platform.
So at IBM users felt the Mac was better than their own PC's? No surprise to me. I've used both and you couldn't pay me to own something I had to run Windows on. The best quote is this:
“This can free us from the Windows stranglehold.”
Welcome to freedom. Welcome to Macintosh.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Packer 2008 Schedule
1 Sept. 8 (Mon.) Minnesota Vikings 7 p.m.
2 Sept. 14 at Detroit Lions 1 p.m.
3 Sept. 21 Dallas Cowboys 8:15 p.m.
4 Sept. 28 at Tampa Bay Buccaneers 1 p.m.
5 Oct. 5 Atlanta Falcons 1 p.m.
6 Oct. 12 at Seattle Seahawks 4:15 p.m.
7 Oct. 19 Indianapolis Colts 4:15 p.m.
8 Oct. 26 Bye
9 Nov. 2 at Tennessee Titans 1 p.m.
10 Nov. 9 at Minnesota Vikings 1 p.m.
11 Nov. 16 Chicago Bears 1 p.m.
12 Nov. 24 (Mon.) at New Orleans Saints 8:30 p.m.
13 Nov. 30 Carolina Panthers 1 p.m.
14 Dec. 7 Houston Texans 1 p.m.
15 Dec. 14 at Jacksonville Jaguars 1 p.m.
16 Dec. 22 (Mon.) at Chicago Bears 8:30 p.m.
17 Dec. 28 Detroit Lions 1 p.m.
Three Monday night games . . . nice! And we open at home on Monday Night against the Viqueens . . . very nice!
I see a 14 and 2 season!
See the whole NFL schedule here.
2 Sept. 14 at Detroit Lions 1 p.m.
3 Sept. 21 Dallas Cowboys 8:15 p.m.
4 Sept. 28 at Tampa Bay Buccaneers 1 p.m.
5 Oct. 5 Atlanta Falcons 1 p.m.
6 Oct. 12 at Seattle Seahawks 4:15 p.m.
7 Oct. 19 Indianapolis Colts 4:15 p.m.
8 Oct. 26 Bye
9 Nov. 2 at Tennessee Titans 1 p.m.
10 Nov. 9 at Minnesota Vikings 1 p.m.
11 Nov. 16 Chicago Bears 1 p.m.
12 Nov. 24 (Mon.) at New Orleans Saints 8:30 p.m.
13 Nov. 30 Carolina Panthers 1 p.m.
14 Dec. 7 Houston Texans 1 p.m.
15 Dec. 14 at Jacksonville Jaguars 1 p.m.
16 Dec. 22 (Mon.) at Chicago Bears 8:30 p.m.
17 Dec. 28 Detroit Lions 1 p.m.
Three Monday night games . . . nice! And we open at home on Monday Night against the Viqueens . . . very nice!
I see a 14 and 2 season!
See the whole NFL schedule here.
DVR Alert!
First Lady Laura Bush is going to guest host on the Today Show next week.
Laura Bush has really been a quietly strong kind of First Lady. She's done a lot but keep a very low profile. I'm anxious to see and hear more from her.
NEW YORK (AP) - entertainmentminute First lady Laura Bush will be "guest host" for an hour of NBC's "Today" show next week.
The network said she'll host the 9 a.m. EDT hour April 22, the morning of the Pennsylvania primary. By that time in the four-hour morning show, politics is usually set aside for issues that affect women, who make up the majority of the audience during that time period.
Mrs. Bush will participate in several segments and interviews, NBC said Tuesday.
She will be joined earlier in the broadcast by her daughter Jenna to talk about their new children's book, "Read All About It!"
The first lady will also give Ann Curry a tour of the Bush family ranch in Crawford, Texas.
Laura Bush has really been a quietly strong kind of First Lady. She's done a lot but keep a very low profile. I'm anxious to see and hear more from her.
Monday, April 14, 2008
A Million Little Lies
I got an email from James Frey. Well, not personally, I'm sure. It was to announce his blog and new book Bright Shiny Morning. You remember this guy . . . ? He was Oprah's pick of the month or something with Million Little Pieces. An autobiographical story about himself, being an addict, and his road to recovery. My wife read it and, without passing judgement on her own judgement, really liked it and encouraged me to read it. Not really my cup of tea. Give me Edward Lee, Koontz, Sandford, James Patterson . . . but I decided to give it a try.
Early on in the book it deals with Jim (mind if I call you Jim?) going to the dentist to have work done. He got beat up, left for dead, put on a plane where he wakes up, and winds up in rehab thanks to his parents. He describes having root canals done without any novocaine and instead squeezes tennis balls until his finger nails crack and he passes out.
Yeah, right. I axed my wife after the first chapter . . . "you believe this?" He wasn't allowed any novocaine due to his past drug use and fears he might relapse.
Well, it turns out the book was one lie after another after another after another. He went on Oprah and admitted embellishing a bit. AFter subsequent investigations in to various components of his story we come to find out the whole thing is a huge lie. Yes, he was an addict. Yes, he went to rehab. That's about where similarities end. His dental experience, his arrest, the death of a girlfriend . . . all lies. He even lied about the cause of death of his girlfriend twice!
The book was entertaining. Once you got past some of the over the top-ness about it. As for all the lies . . . apparently he had shopped the book as a fiction story to begin with. No one would buy it so he decided to make it a true story. And just as with the news, no one bothered to check facts. Facts like Lilly's death which would be public record.
Hey, maybe he and algore could get together and write a book . . . A Million Little Incovenient Lies.
Early on in the book it deals with Jim (mind if I call you Jim?) going to the dentist to have work done. He got beat up, left for dead, put on a plane where he wakes up, and winds up in rehab thanks to his parents. He describes having root canals done without any novocaine and instead squeezes tennis balls until his finger nails crack and he passes out.
Yeah, right. I axed my wife after the first chapter . . . "you believe this?" He wasn't allowed any novocaine due to his past drug use and fears he might relapse.
Well, it turns out the book was one lie after another after another after another. He went on Oprah and admitted embellishing a bit. AFter subsequent investigations in to various components of his story we come to find out the whole thing is a huge lie. Yes, he was an addict. Yes, he went to rehab. That's about where similarities end. His dental experience, his arrest, the death of a girlfriend . . . all lies. He even lied about the cause of death of his girlfriend twice!
The book was entertaining. Once you got past some of the over the top-ness about it. As for all the lies . . . apparently he had shopped the book as a fiction story to begin with. No one would buy it so he decided to make it a true story. And just as with the news, no one bothered to check facts. Facts like Lilly's death which would be public record.
Hey, maybe he and algore could get together and write a book . . . A Million Little Incovenient Lies.
Recidivist Transit Grinder
This is one of those stories . . . first, someone had to come up with that label. It's pretty good, really. Second, I'm a little surprised it took 53 gropings before the courts got serious. No one thought after . . . say, 11 that this guy might be a serial groper? 23? 33? 41? Nope. Took until 53 before they got serious.
Not to be out done, the newspaper call the guy a "subway rat". Might be true, but Recidivist Transit Grinder sound so much better!
Not to be out done, the newspaper call the guy a "subway rat". Might be true, but Recidivist Transit Grinder sound so much better!
Ah, the decisions we make as parents
Whether it's letting a child sit in the front seat of a car unbuckled, letting them in a boat without a life jacket, or get on a skate board without any pads, we parents make important decisions about our children's actions to protect them. They're simply incapable of making those decisions themselves as they're ignorant of the consequences. This kid doesn't stand a chance:
With parents this stupid I doubt the kid will see 21. Reminds me of a great quote from Parenthood:
A couple can't agree on which gang their 4-year-old toddler should join.
A fight about the decision led to a public disturbance with the father's arrest. Joseph Manzanares went to the video store where his girlfriend worked, threatened to kill her and knocked over several video displays, police told KMGH Denver.
Police arrested Manzanares at his home, Commerce City police Sgt. Joe Sandoval told KMGH Denver.
The girlfriend told authorities they were fighting over which gang their son should join. The girlfriend, who is black, is a member of the Crips while Manzanares, who is Hispanic, belongs to the Westside Ballers.
"They have different ideas on how the baby should be raised," Sandoval said. "Basically, she said they cannot agree on which gang the baby would 'claim.'"
With parents this stupid I doubt the kid will see 21. Reminds me of a great quote from Parenthood:
Tod (Keeanu Reeves)
You know, Mrs. Buckman, you need a license to buy a dog, to drive a car - hell, you even need a license to catch a fish. But they'll let any butt-reaming asshole be a father.
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