LA is a harsh mistress, but she's my lady.
- Vince Vaughn on KROQ, June 2, 2006
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Atwater Newbie
How much do I love the Atwater Newbie blog? Quite a bit. He (95% sure he's a he) is a great voice for another neighborhood in a city-state of great neighborhoods! Read him, why don't you?
Take Public Transit
I just added a link to Metro Rider LA -- a new site, founded in part by a friend and co-worker -- on the right and I encourage anyone in LA who cares about doing something about traffic, congestion, pollution to check it out.
I may not ride the bus or rails a lot, but I do want to and this site can help me do that. And, remember as I've said before, if you can walk, don't drive. Most of Angelenos live in some neighborhood where you don't have to drive to the bank, the grocery store, the coffee joint.
Walking makes both you, your neighborhood and your city healthier.
And for God's sake, if you can take a bus or train, do it. Find out how much more reading you can get done and take a look at what your fellow citizens look like as seen not through tinted glass windows.
I may not ride the bus or rails a lot, but I do want to and this site can help me do that. And, remember as I've said before, if you can walk, don't drive. Most of Angelenos live in some neighborhood where you don't have to drive to the bank, the grocery store, the coffee joint.
Walking makes both you, your neighborhood and your city healthier.
And for God's sake, if you can take a bus or train, do it. Find out how much more reading you can get done and take a look at what your fellow citizens look like as seen not through tinted glass windows.
Monday, June 12, 2006
LA Gay Pride
DSC04293
Originally uploaded by miles10001.
Amazing that the paper of record in Los Angeles would have only 2 black and white photos and no story about Gay Pride. This is an event that draws more than 300,000 people to the streets of West Hollywood to celebrate diversity in one of the country's most diverse cities. Surely, it would warrant a short story? What gives?
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Jen's Blog
This is an example of sombody taking a concept that they love -- children's books -- and really, truly making an excellent, entertaining and informative blog about it.
Read it!
Read it!
Overheard Conversation
Person 1: "I don't have a phony bone in my body."
(beat)
(beat)
Person 2: "It's all cartiledge."
(Thank you and good night!)
(beat)
(beat)
Person 2: "It's all cartiledge."
(Thank you and good night!)
At Mr. & Mrs. Bartley's
DSC03836
Originally uploaded by miles10001.
The best burgers in Boston are in Cambridge. Hell, best burgers in American are in Cambridge.
Friday, June 09, 2006
Jacaranda Time
DSC_0141
Originally uploaded by miles10001.
Get out and view those trees before it's too late. This scene from Palm Dr. in Beverly Hills.
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Wine Tastin' in LA
Ok, so de Leon won. Big deal. I wish he hadn't, but such is life.
Anyhoo, la.com has a great post about wine bars in LA. Now, I probably won't be going to any westside boites soon -- hard to tast and drive, n'cest pa? -- but I'm dying to try the new place on Vine.
Check out the list, see what they missed (Silver Lake Wine, anyone?).
Anyhoo, la.com has a great post about wine bars in LA. Now, I probably won't be going to any westside boites soon -- hard to tast and drive, n'cest pa? -- but I'm dying to try the new place on Vine.
Check out the list, see what they missed (Silver Lake Wine, anyone?).
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
California Primary is Today
Get out and vote. If you live in the 45th Assembly district, I encourage you to vote for the progressive, tenant activist, Elena Popp.
If you don't know where your polling station, find out here.
If you don't know where your polling station, find out here.
Monday, June 05, 2006
Sick as a Dog
I find it not at all refreshingly ironic that on one of the hottest days of the year so far, I went to see a movie about Global Warming and came out with a cold. I actually felt the first tickle in the back of my throat (if you must, insert dirty jokes here) as soon as the lights went down. Though, my back started bothering me the day before. So, who knows.
Anyhoo, the tickle became a scratch and then a sore. Then, my back started to ache more. So, I did what any rational human being would do -- I had an afternoon martini. Oh, it was good.
Then I had a couple helpings of homemade salad, thinking the veggies might help -- later, I would regret this. And then, another martini. Things were heading south. I watched the Sopranos finale -- lackluster, at best -- and decided that since my back was now throbbing, I should follow up the brushing of my teeth with a muscle relaxant.
Well, that worked...temporarily. I slept like it was my final sleep until 2. I woke every hour after with the tickle, scratch and sore and finally got up around 6. Well, the couple fixin's of salad made a reappearance. You've heard of the salad shooter, I take it. Well, that phrase has a whole new meaning. Anyway, after oatmeal and another shooter, I headed off to work where, you guessed it, I had another salad (we moved into a new building where all meals are free -- how could I possibly resist?.
What then proceeded was agonizing stomach pain -- inability or lack of desire to decimate public bathrooms with the horror of all of my insides -- alternating with back pain and throat pain.
Now, at home, after a bath and some soup and a lot of water to drink, I'm hopeful that tonight's muscle relaxant might do the "all is better" trick.
Stay tuned.
Anyhoo, the tickle became a scratch and then a sore. Then, my back started to ache more. So, I did what any rational human being would do -- I had an afternoon martini. Oh, it was good.
Then I had a couple helpings of homemade salad, thinking the veggies might help -- later, I would regret this. And then, another martini. Things were heading south. I watched the Sopranos finale -- lackluster, at best -- and decided that since my back was now throbbing, I should follow up the brushing of my teeth with a muscle relaxant.
Well, that worked...temporarily. I slept like it was my final sleep until 2. I woke every hour after with the tickle, scratch and sore and finally got up around 6. Well, the couple fixin's of salad made a reappearance. You've heard of the salad shooter, I take it. Well, that phrase has a whole new meaning. Anyway, after oatmeal and another shooter, I headed off to work where, you guessed it, I had another salad (we moved into a new building where all meals are free -- how could I possibly resist?.
What then proceeded was agonizing stomach pain -- inability or lack of desire to decimate public bathrooms with the horror of all of my insides -- alternating with back pain and throat pain.
Now, at home, after a bath and some soup and a lot of water to drink, I'm hopeful that tonight's muscle relaxant might do the "all is better" trick.
Stay tuned.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
An Inconvenient Truth
I saw Al Gore's movie and it's good. If you haven't seen it, you should. If you have seen it, I hope it moved you. Don't drive if you can walk or ride a bike or take public transportation. Recycle. Use more efficient lightbulbs. Stop driving a shitty gas guzzler and get more efficient car. Vote for people who you believe the same. Start now.
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Walking in LA
They say it and they sing it, but it's not true. Nobody walks in LA is simply not true. I walk and millions of others do and I encourage everyone to try it. Instead of hopping in your car to go to the store a couple blocks away, why don't you walk it? It's less of a hassle, really, and you get exercise, you save money and help the environment. Oh, you also make your neighborhood safer by walking in the streets rather than only being on the street when walking to and from your house and car. Join me for a nice constitutional!
Monday, May 29, 2006
Oh, yeah! Get those apples from the crisper, you dirty boy!
I also heart craigslist and its many unusual advertisers.
A Queen for President
If only. I heart Barney Frank and wish more people in government at all levels will speak out. Maybe, Barney can lead the way. This is an excellent start!
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Native Americans
My friend Andy -- name changed to protect the guilty -- dated a native american some time ago a couple times. It was alright -- in fact, he was very unstereotypical. The guy had no gambling problems and he hated the drink. But still, with Andy, for some reason, well, he had reservations.
Thank you and good night. Please do not forget to tip your waitresses.
Thank you and good night. Please do not forget to tip your waitresses.
Adjustable Rate Mortgages
Atrios is right now as he was right before. All the people who opted for adjustable rate mortgages when interest rates were in the cellar are now feeling the pain. I know that the little money we've taken out of our equity line is causing us to pay more in interest each month.
What's worse is the people who bought houses with interest-only loans because it was all they could afford. In a very short time, most of these are going to become adjustable rate mortgage as well.
Can you see what's going to happen?
What's worse is the people who bought houses with interest-only loans because it was all they could afford. In a very short time, most of these are going to become adjustable rate mortgage as well.
Can you see what's going to happen?
I am not voting for Kevin deLeon for California State Assembly
I live in atwater village and Kevin deLeon dropped by my house while I was away to campaign for assembly.
Though we were not at home and the gate to our front patio was closed and our two dogs were on the patio, Mr. deLeon still came in and left a personalized message on campaign literature on my door.
The gate was closed. The dogs were on the patio.
We came home from lunch to find that the gate was open and one of my dogs was across the street. We were gone for about an hour and had seen Mr. deLeon talking to a neighbor a couple houses away. I assumed he was campaigning and that he would see no car in my driveway, a closed gate and two dogs and not bother coming in. Well, he did and was not considerate enough to close the gate after he left. It's conceivable that my dog that got out could easily have been hit by a car.
Well, needless to say, he wasn't and we're lucky about that, but Mr. deLeon lost my vote.
If he should happen to win, I would hope that he's more thoughtful and considerate as an Assemblyman.
Here are the other democrats running for the Distric 45 seat:
Elena Popp
Christine Chavez
Oscar A. Gutierrez
Gabriel Buelina
Updated: Thanks to the commenter for the link to Ms. Popp's campaign site.
Though we were not at home and the gate to our front patio was closed and our two dogs were on the patio, Mr. deLeon still came in and left a personalized message on campaign literature on my door.
The gate was closed. The dogs were on the patio.
We came home from lunch to find that the gate was open and one of my dogs was across the street. We were gone for about an hour and had seen Mr. deLeon talking to a neighbor a couple houses away. I assumed he was campaigning and that he would see no car in my driveway, a closed gate and two dogs and not bother coming in. Well, he did and was not considerate enough to close the gate after he left. It's conceivable that my dog that got out could easily have been hit by a car.
Well, needless to say, he wasn't and we're lucky about that, but Mr. deLeon lost my vote.
If he should happen to win, I would hope that he's more thoughtful and considerate as an Assemblyman.
Here are the other democrats running for the Distric 45 seat:
Elena Popp
Christine Chavez
Oscar A. Gutierrez
Gabriel Buelina
Updated: Thanks to the commenter for the link to Ms. Popp's campaign site.
Monday, May 22, 2006
Lancelot Link, Secret Chimp
lancelot
Originally uploaded by miles10001.
Finally, the official Lancelot Link, Secret Chimp is now available in stores everywhere. What are you waiting for? Get it today!
Update: Don't get it today. There is a company called Synergy Entertainment which has apparently made a pirated edition of this and the Producers are in the process of stopping it. Don't buy it until it comes from A&E!
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Barbra
Don't get me wrong, I love Barbra Streisand. I mean, LOVE BARBRA STREISAND. It's like a sickness, really. But, the fact is, when she's at the top of her game, ain't nobody got the pipes that she does. She really can belt it out and emote. Every single song she recorded in the 60s was a materpiece. Her Broadway album is really spectacular. Her last "farewell" tour was amazing and I cannot wait for her upcoming "farewell" tour.
That said, the broad can be oh-so-cheesy.
Here she is performing a duet with Burt Bacharach from his 1971 CBS special. The only thing greater than her voice is her cheese...and that this clip is out of sync makes it all the better.
Enjoy!
That said, the broad can be oh-so-cheesy.
Here she is performing a duet with Burt Bacharach from his 1971 CBS special. The only thing greater than her voice is her cheese...and that this clip is out of sync makes it all the better.
Enjoy!
Thursday, May 04, 2006
My Face
You might just see it in the first five or so seconds here and it looks like I'm a deer caught in the headlights. Hysterical!
Once the ad ends and the interviews begin, keep your finger near pause.
Once the ad ends and the interviews begin, keep your finger near pause.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Immigration Rally and Boycott
The drive to and from work on Monday was relatively cake, the images of marches, rallies and protests were inspirational, and tonight at Trader Joes, they seemed to be missing many food items.
All in all, a success (backlash be damned)!
All in all, a success (backlash be damned)!
Stephen Colbert
Not only did he do a fine job at the event in Washington, he inhabited the ghosts of great satirists like H.L. Menken and Oscar Wilde. He should be applauded and lionized. Nothing less.
Monday, May 01, 2006
Pro-Immigrants Rights
laprotest_broadway
Originally uploaded by miles10001.
As a grandchild of immigrants and a student of American history, I am filled with awe at the events of the day. During this time of corruption, I embrace any group stepping forward and making their voice heard.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Friday, April 28, 2006
Sunday, April 23, 2006
An L.A. Weekend
So, Friday night, after work, Carl and I are to have dinner with my mother, father, stepmother, sister, her new husband and her husband's Israeli father and stepmother. Ah, yeah. So, I pick up my mother, get to Choclat (formerly Moustache Cafe, but with, strangely, almost the exact same menu as before -- though, the inside has been gussied up) and head directly to the bar for fortifications. Jennifer (sis) and Joel (brother-in-law) arrive next (having traveled down from SF) and we hug and make awkward small talk.
Joel's parents arrive followed by Carl, who gulps from my wine glass, also needing fortification. He suggests he should have brought a xanax for us both to split. A good idea to remember for next time.
We move to sit and 3 table squashed together near the kitchen door. Taking a page out of my mom's playbook, I insist they move us over at least one table away from the swinging kitchen door. They accommodate and I request another fortification.
Dinner is fine, company is nice and we all go our separate merry ways, happy to have accomplished another gathering without all-out warfare.
Saturday morning, I drag myself up and out to visit my mom's mom, Nana Dorothy. She's in an assisted living house in Moorpark, about 40 miles north of my home. I stop and pick up a few cand bars and a bag of lifesavers -- as they're almost the only thing she lives for. I arrive and she tells me that she wants to die. Ok.
I don't blame her. She's in a lot of pain and doesn't have much to live for. I tell her that I hope she gets out of pain soon and finds peace. We talk for a few minutes, reminisce a tad and then I'm off to my Great Uncle Jack's birthday in Westlake, being held at some Italian restaurant hidden around a fake lake, next to a boat club and mall. I find the location, but not the restaurant, so I convince myself that I'm in the wrong location and drive around Westlake for 30 minutes til my sister finally calls me and gives me directions. I had called several people, but no one saw fit to answer their phones.
I arrive amid speeches and toasts and the such. I request fortification. And then the barber shop quartet singing begins. It's sweet, a nice throwback, and we all sing TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME (my Uncle Jack has had season tix to the Dodgers since they moved to LA). Oh, and some wellspoken yet seemingly pompous State Senator spoke and offer Uncle Jack a proclamation from the state. A very nice afternoon was had.
After the celebration, I came home and soundly napped. Next, it was off to a rooftop fundraiser in West Hollywood for a friend of a friend who's riding in the AIDS Ride. Steve and I chatted amiably with new-found 40-year old lesbian screenwriter and her friend, a nurse. And, then for entertainment, 6 traditional mexican dancers took the stage (or the roof, i guess) and danced a series of traditional mexican dances, culminating with the famous "hat dance."
It was fun and kitschy and little weird. Downtown glittered behind us and the Century City towers glittered behind the dancers.
From strangely formed families previously thought inconceivable to nanas with a deathwish to barber shop quartets and state proclamations to traditional mexican dancers at rooftop AIDS fundraiser parties, I gotta say: I love LA.
This afternoon, I'm off to the one year anniversary of Fuel. But first, I'm desperate for a constitional and a large coffee. I'm pooped.
Joel's parents arrive followed by Carl, who gulps from my wine glass, also needing fortification. He suggests he should have brought a xanax for us both to split. A good idea to remember for next time.
We move to sit and 3 table squashed together near the kitchen door. Taking a page out of my mom's playbook, I insist they move us over at least one table away from the swinging kitchen door. They accommodate and I request another fortification.
Dinner is fine, company is nice and we all go our separate merry ways, happy to have accomplished another gathering without all-out warfare.
Saturday morning, I drag myself up and out to visit my mom's mom, Nana Dorothy. She's in an assisted living house in Moorpark, about 40 miles north of my home. I stop and pick up a few cand bars and a bag of lifesavers -- as they're almost the only thing she lives for. I arrive and she tells me that she wants to die. Ok.
I don't blame her. She's in a lot of pain and doesn't have much to live for. I tell her that I hope she gets out of pain soon and finds peace. We talk for a few minutes, reminisce a tad and then I'm off to my Great Uncle Jack's birthday in Westlake, being held at some Italian restaurant hidden around a fake lake, next to a boat club and mall. I find the location, but not the restaurant, so I convince myself that I'm in the wrong location and drive around Westlake for 30 minutes til my sister finally calls me and gives me directions. I had called several people, but no one saw fit to answer their phones.
I arrive amid speeches and toasts and the such. I request fortification. And then the barber shop quartet singing begins. It's sweet, a nice throwback, and we all sing TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME (my Uncle Jack has had season tix to the Dodgers since they moved to LA). Oh, and some wellspoken yet seemingly pompous State Senator spoke and offer Uncle Jack a proclamation from the state. A very nice afternoon was had.
After the celebration, I came home and soundly napped. Next, it was off to a rooftop fundraiser in West Hollywood for a friend of a friend who's riding in the AIDS Ride. Steve and I chatted amiably with new-found 40-year old lesbian screenwriter and her friend, a nurse. And, then for entertainment, 6 traditional mexican dancers took the stage (or the roof, i guess) and danced a series of traditional mexican dances, culminating with the famous "hat dance."
It was fun and kitschy and little weird. Downtown glittered behind us and the Century City towers glittered behind the dancers.
From strangely formed families previously thought inconceivable to nanas with a deathwish to barber shop quartets and state proclamations to traditional mexican dancers at rooftop AIDS fundraiser parties, I gotta say: I love LA.
This afternoon, I'm off to the one year anniversary of Fuel. But first, I'm desperate for a constitional and a large coffee. I'm pooped.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Friday, April 21, 2006
Monday, April 17, 2006
Happy 225th Birthday L.A.
Via Franklin Ave, City Nerd is putting together a list of 225 things to do to celebrate the birthday our our City of Angels! Unlike the fiasco of the Millenium party when the Hollywood sign was lit by the equivalent of a few flashlights, maybe they're on to something.
Oh, and I guess LAist is compiling a list too.
Five more things I would do:
1. Go to your neighborhood council meeting.
2. Visit your local library.
3. Go to a reading at Skylight Books or A Different Light Boookstore.
4. Hike Runyon Canyon.
5. Go to the West Hollywood or Long Beach Gay Pride parade.
Perhaps more to come...
Oh, and I guess LAist is compiling a list too.
Five more things I would do:
1. Go to your neighborhood council meeting.
2. Visit your local library.
3. Go to a reading at Skylight Books or A Different Light Boookstore.
4. Hike Runyon Canyon.
5. Go to the West Hollywood or Long Beach Gay Pride parade.
Perhaps more to come...
Friday, April 14, 2006
Impeach Bush
Via atrios, it seem Neil Young has a new album and, well, he isn't pulling any punches.
One commenter reminds us:
One man, with a dream at leisure
Can go out to conquer a crown,
But three, with a new song's measure
Can crumble an Empire down.
From "Ode" by Arthur O'Shaunessy (d. 1889)
One commenter reminds us:
One man, with a dream at leisure
Can go out to conquer a crown,
But three, with a new song's measure
Can crumble an Empire down.
From "Ode" by Arthur O'Shaunessy (d. 1889)
Sunday, April 09, 2006
Cynthia McKinney vs. Tom Delay
Another excerpt fron the Rude one:
Read the whole thing.
But you wanna know where the racism and sexism is here? It ain't with the Capitol cops (in this case), who are in a crappy position under the stress of terrorism neurosis that pervades everything. It's with the media, who act with deference towards a white male thrice-admonished alleged felon who has intimate connections with convicted felons and who feel free to attack the black woman who has yet to be charged with anything.
Oh, and that's not to mention that McKinney's a Democrat and DeLay's a Republican.
Read the whole thing.
Cheney's a lying sack of shit
Yeah, I said it. Well, actually, I repeated it. The Rude Pundit said it first. Well, if not first, at least before me. I suspect many people have said it many times, many places.
Anyway, the latest Libby/Cheney/Bush Leakapolooza seems to be missing something and I think the Rude Guy may be right.
See if you agree.
Anyway, the latest Libby/Cheney/Bush Leakapolooza seems to be missing something and I think the Rude Guy may be right.
See if you agree.
Saturday, April 08, 2006
Baseball Can Be a Drag
Well, yeah, but it also can put a lot of drag queens out of business. Apparently, the new Washington Nationals are planning to build a new stadium over the footprint of some of the oldest gay bars in DC.
Can't they build it over the Capitol or The White House or are the Cess Pools too deep for cleaning?
Can't they build it over the Capitol or The White House or are the Cess Pools too deep for cleaning?
Rats on a Plane
While this may be a horrific story -- I'm sure I would not have come close to maintaining this guy's composure, but rather would have screamed like a terrified catholic schoolgirl -- the comment about the cigarette-smoking rat in the restaurant takes the cake.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
The Republicans
Or as some like to call them, the Repuglicans. Under their "leadership", this is where this country's headin'.
Good times (or is it End Times?).
On a sidenote, it's great to see Billmon posting regularly again. Hope he continues. He's sorely needed.
Good times (or is it End Times?).
On a sidenote, it's great to see Billmon posting regularly again. Hope he continues. He's sorely needed.
Monday, April 03, 2006
Delay
Victory can no longer be delayed. He's out of the race and America should do the Snoopy Dance.
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Agonizing Back Pain
So, I threw out my back on Wednesday night. Went to a new chirpractor who took an xray first and, lo and behold, I have scoliosis. I should be 5 inches taller he told me (can he make me 5 years younger too?) and that much of any discomfort in my daily life can be attributed to this.
Fine, he adjusts me for my initial reason for coming (I'll go back to start the other stuff to make me taller and less bloated, I guess) and sent me on my way.
And I was better. Cut to a day and a half later -- today -- and I feel a little twingey, but still think I can pick up a small table at a friend's house (thanks Brian!). I did and immediately, I'm in agonizing pain. It's like somebody is punching me in my lower back and hip repeatedly (you know, just where the chiropractor adjusted me).
I finally make it home and Carl goes out for the requisite heating pad, muscle relaxant, muscle spray, anything...mostly probably to get away from my Baby Jane self.
And, so, I'm left in my sickbed, and the only thing the puppy wants to do is jump up and down on my in-agony body or lick me in the face...and there was no way for me to summon the strength to push him away. I love the puppy, but come on, already, catch a bird, play with the other dog, dig a plant. Finally, he just plops down at my feet, then my head, then my feet. Fine, just please God, no jumping on the the family jewels, legs, chest, face, anywhere and quit the licking. Thank you.
Now, I'm on wine and muscle relaxants and the puppy's asleep. So, I guess it didn't end as poorly as I might have feared. I'm off to watch the rest of Liza with a Z because I can't sit any longer (yes, I watch standing up like I'm at a cocktail party because sitting is too painful -- I found a relatively less painful way to sit at this computer, hence this missive).
Soon, another muscle relaxant and back to bed. In six months, I may be 5 inches taller.
Fine, he adjusts me for my initial reason for coming (I'll go back to start the other stuff to make me taller and less bloated, I guess) and sent me on my way.
And I was better. Cut to a day and a half later -- today -- and I feel a little twingey, but still think I can pick up a small table at a friend's house (thanks Brian!). I did and immediately, I'm in agonizing pain. It's like somebody is punching me in my lower back and hip repeatedly (you know, just where the chiropractor adjusted me).
I finally make it home and Carl goes out for the requisite heating pad, muscle relaxant, muscle spray, anything...mostly probably to get away from my Baby Jane self.
And, so, I'm left in my sickbed, and the only thing the puppy wants to do is jump up and down on my in-agony body or lick me in the face...and there was no way for me to summon the strength to push him away. I love the puppy, but come on, already, catch a bird, play with the other dog, dig a plant. Finally, he just plops down at my feet, then my head, then my feet. Fine, just please God, no jumping on the the family jewels, legs, chest, face, anywhere and quit the licking. Thank you.
Now, I'm on wine and muscle relaxants and the puppy's asleep. So, I guess it didn't end as poorly as I might have feared. I'm off to watch the rest of Liza with a Z because I can't sit any longer (yes, I watch standing up like I'm at a cocktail party because sitting is too painful -- I found a relatively less painful way to sit at this computer, hence this missive).
Soon, another muscle relaxant and back to bed. In six months, I may be 5 inches taller.
Conservative Publishing
By way of the Washington Monthly, this may just be how conservatives come up with their compelling book concepts.
Saturday, March 25, 2006
Downtown Protest March
According to the LA Times, more than 500,000 people turned up downtown to protest US Immigration policies. It's among the largest protests ever to happen in LA. Who says we don't care...
Here's a blog with a description and pics.
It's just another sign that the tide is turning and the people who have been fucked over for so long in this country are finally taking a stand.
If I was a republican, I would be feeling less and less comfortable about now.
As they said today, si, se puede.
Here's a blog with a description and pics.
It's just another sign that the tide is turning and the people who have been fucked over for so long in this country are finally taking a stand.
If I was a republican, I would be feeling less and less comfortable about now.
As they said today, si, se puede.
Thursday, March 23, 2006
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
Why Do the Dixie Chicks Hate America
Ok, really. They don't. They have no regrets. They made their bed and they sleep like the baby.
Listen to the song and hear why I like 'em more and more.
Listen to the song and hear why I like 'em more and more.
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Iraq: The Start of Year 4
How the hell did we get here? Here's a handy timeline.
Though, it's important to put the blame for this idiocy where it lies -- with Bush and his henchmen -- what really gnaws at me is how the hell will we get out of there now?
oy.
Though, it's important to put the blame for this idiocy where it lies -- with Bush and his henchmen -- what really gnaws at me is how the hell will we get out of there now?
oy.
Saturday, March 18, 2006
El Coyote
This makes me want to go there on Thursdays...not just in the middle of the annual AIDS walk...as we normally do.
Family Reserach Council
The admin actually does something right and grants the Gay Games (happening in Chicago this summer) with a federal designation so athletes who have hiv/aids from around the world can enter the US (sounds dirty already) to play in the games (ahem, water sports, included).
Well, the ironically named Family Research Council is appalled.
Well, the ironically named Family Research Council is appalled.
Friday, March 17, 2006
Thursday, March 09, 2006
White House Access for Sale
More evidence that this is...
the
most
corrupt
administration
since
richard
nixon.
My thought, of course, is that this one makes Nixon look like the patron saint of honesty and sensitivity...but that's just logical ol me...
the
most
corrupt
administration
since
richard
nixon.
My thought, of course, is that this one makes Nixon look like the patron saint of honesty and sensitivity...but that's just logical ol me...
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
South Dakota Abortions
Well, I guess it's official. If you're a woman in South Dakota, you're a second class citizen.
Hopefully, it's the old two steps forward, one giant leap back adage, but we've had quite a bit of backward leaping over the past few years. So, who knows.
Anyway, here's the state's new logo.
Hopefully, it's the old two steps forward, one giant leap back adage, but we've had quite a bit of backward leaping over the past few years. So, who knows.
Anyway, here's the state's new logo.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Monday, February 20, 2006
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Bright Idea
DSC_0393
Originally uploaded by miles10001.
I guess I wasn't the only person who thought it would be a good day to take in the views.
Unfortunately, I had not at all planned on hiking. I thought I'd just go up to the Observatory, shoot a few from the base and head home. But, being that the Observatory is being expanded, it was completely fenced off. My only choice was to walk up the trails. And once I started, I figured that I had to go all the way to the top -- Dante's Peak.
Every turn was a more beautiful view. Once I headed back down, though, I took a wrong turn and ended up on an old fire road. I eventually -- thru the help of the actor who played Michael J. Fox's father in FAMILY TIES (Michael Gross, thank imdb) -- found my way back to the main road and my car.
Drove back down, stopped at new cafe at bottom that's inside the park and that has gotten rave reviews. Unfortunately, they only took cash. So, I settled for solid diner food at Astro Family Restaurant along with an alternative paper and some strong coffee.
It was a great start to the afternoon.
Aha
DSC_0416
Originally uploaded by miles10001.
Two more reasons to love L.A. -- and that's not even counting the beautiful vistas from the park after a storm.
At play
At play
Originally uploaded by miles10001.
Sabrina and Cooper go at it...but, more importantly, how does anyone sit in that chair on the left?
Friday, February 17, 2006
Monday, February 13, 2006
WTF
Oil companies made record profits last year and continue to make billions of dollars in profit this year and what does the government intend to do? Give them a tax break to drill for oil and gass on federal land so that they can make even higher profits?
Enough is fucking enough.
Enough is fucking enough.
Sunday, February 12, 2006
I miss the snow
This from the NY Times...
For many indoors, it was a day to relax by a window, perhaps with a glass of wine and soft jazz on the radio, and take in the unreal loveliness of winter — the panes frosted like glass from Murano, the sills drifted with flourishes of lacework, and, out in the storm, dreamscapes of snow blowing down a street, curtains of snow falling in great sweeps, snow settling like peace in the parks and skeletal woodlands.
I wish I could be there or in Boston to experience it.
For many indoors, it was a day to relax by a window, perhaps with a glass of wine and soft jazz on the radio, and take in the unreal loveliness of winter — the panes frosted like glass from Murano, the sills drifted with flourishes of lacework, and, out in the storm, dreamscapes of snow blowing down a street, curtains of snow falling in great sweeps, snow settling like peace in the parks and skeletal woodlands.
I wish I could be there or in Boston to experience it.
Thursday, February 09, 2006
Shoe bombs
I hate terrorism, but is anybody -- anybody! -- amused at the concept of shoebombs? I mean, come on, already. Shoebombs! It's like we've finally caught up to Get Smart.
Max: Do you have a shoebomb in a wingtip, size 9?
Atrios has little more.
Max: Do you have a shoebomb in a wingtip, size 9?
Atrios has little more.
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Monday, February 06, 2006
I Love Puns
Because there is no pun that I cannot get, ahem, behind, please see, ahem, #2 on this list from Curbed L.A.
Say Goodbye to Gay Tolerance and Hello to the American Taliban
The Department of Health and Human Services has completely (well, not completely, as nothing this government does is done without a litany of errors) removed a portion of its website which expressed "toleration" of gays.
Of course, we expect more than just "toleration" anyway, but, nonetheless, it was something. And, who do you think might have requested this removal? Why, I'm glad you asked. The good ol' Family Research Council takes credit.
The Rude Pundit has complete details including links to a google cache version of the old site and links to the newly whitewashed site.
Sure makes you wonder what side of the "War on Terror" (tm) they're really on, doesn't it?
Of course, we expect more than just "toleration" anyway, but, nonetheless, it was something. And, who do you think might have requested this removal? Why, I'm glad you asked. The good ol' Family Research Council takes credit.
The Rude Pundit has complete details including links to a google cache version of the old site and links to the newly whitewashed site.
Sure makes you wonder what side of the "War on Terror" (tm) they're really on, doesn't it?
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Jack Abramoff
Yes, he is an admitted felon, idealogue and conspirator, but is there more to his story. Who else was involved. What other issues? Why do Native Americans play such an important role in all this? Is one of Jack's larger goals being lost amid the sound and fury of the plea bargain?
Perhaps. Read this accounting.
Perhaps. Read this accounting.
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
the State of the Union
Yikes. Just looking at the man makes me cringe. I still cannot tell if he's pure, undoctored evil or just a soulless puppet. Either way, we're probaby fucked.
The Rude Pundit has the best take on the so-called speech. Here's a brief excerpt:
So there it was. Bush barely bothering to say anything worthwhile. Commissions to study shit. Vague monetary promises. The vow to keep spyin' because otherwise, apparently, America will become bombapalooza. The entire evening was like Bush had gone to the doctor to have his prostate examined: "Here, sir, bend over this podium and it'll be over before you know it and you don't have to it again for another year."
The only thing significant in the entire evening was the treatment of two mothers who lost children in the Iraq War. Bush recognized the parents and widow of Sergeant Dan Clay, killed in Fallujah last month (didn't we secure Fallujah by leveling it?), who stood to applause and cheers from the slavering politicians. Meanwhile, Cindy Sheehan was arrested and led out of the gallery for revealing a t-shirt that read, "2245 Dead. How many more?" She didn't even get to hear Bush promise to kill more soldiers like Dan and Casey, as well as more Iraqi civilians, in order to honor them. He may as well have dug up their corpses and made them dance, dance, grotesquely, horribly, in celebration.
Read it all.
The Rude Pundit has the best take on the so-called speech. Here's a brief excerpt:
So there it was. Bush barely bothering to say anything worthwhile. Commissions to study shit. Vague monetary promises. The vow to keep spyin' because otherwise, apparently, America will become bombapalooza. The entire evening was like Bush had gone to the doctor to have his prostate examined: "Here, sir, bend over this podium and it'll be over before you know it and you don't have to it again for another year."
The only thing significant in the entire evening was the treatment of two mothers who lost children in the Iraq War. Bush recognized the parents and widow of Sergeant Dan Clay, killed in Fallujah last month (didn't we secure Fallujah by leveling it?), who stood to applause and cheers from the slavering politicians. Meanwhile, Cindy Sheehan was arrested and led out of the gallery for revealing a t-shirt that read, "2245 Dead. How many more?" She didn't even get to hear Bush promise to kill more soldiers like Dan and Casey, as well as more Iraqi civilians, in order to honor them. He may as well have dug up their corpses and made them dance, dance, grotesquely, horribly, in celebration.
Read it all.
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Alito
Though the democrats couldn't muster up enough courage among its members to really oppose this ideological right-winger, at least as Bill in Portland, Maine on the Kos declares, we still should celebrate those on the High Court who will defend our rights.
An excerpt...
SUPREME COURT JUSTICE JOHN... PAUL... STEVENS!!!!
[Wild...I mean frickin' WILD applause. A million Bic lighters suddenly come to life as the most massive fireworks display you've ever seen explodes overhead! Molly Ivins, E.J. Dionne and Paul Krugman throw candy to the crowd.]
SUPREME COURT JUSTICE DAVID... SOUTER!!!!
[Women wriggle their panties off and throw them on-stage. WILD applause as the Blue Angels roar overhead and a thousand children holding flashlights form a human `scales of justice.']
SUPREME COURT JUSTICE RUTH... BADER... GINSBURG!!!!
[Okay, this is getting insane. A team of Chippendales dancers hoists Ginsburg on a solid gold throne as a million voices sing in unison: We will, we will ROCK YOU!! Kenny G descends from the rafters to play a solo, but is carried off by security, thank god.]
SUPREME COURT JUSTICE STEPHEN... BREYER!!!!
[Shit! No...way! The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Coldplay, Green Day, Busta Rhymes, the Dixie Chicks and Kanye West team up for an insane performance of Street Fighting Man while a MASSIVE American flag unfurls. The roar of the crowd is heard in 6 states.]
SUPREME COURT JUSTICE ANTHONY... KENNEDY!!!!
Clap...C'clap. Clap. C'clap. Clap.
[Good lord. Sparklers. Speedo. Oh no...we told him three times: no clogging!]
An excerpt...
SUPREME COURT JUSTICE JOHN... PAUL... STEVENS!!!!
[Wild...I mean frickin' WILD applause. A million Bic lighters suddenly come to life as the most massive fireworks display you've ever seen explodes overhead! Molly Ivins, E.J. Dionne and Paul Krugman throw candy to the crowd.]
SUPREME COURT JUSTICE DAVID... SOUTER!!!!
[Women wriggle their panties off and throw them on-stage. WILD applause as the Blue Angels roar overhead and a thousand children holding flashlights form a human `scales of justice.']
SUPREME COURT JUSTICE RUTH... BADER... GINSBURG!!!!
[Okay, this is getting insane. A team of Chippendales dancers hoists Ginsburg on a solid gold throne as a million voices sing in unison: We will, we will ROCK YOU!! Kenny G descends from the rafters to play a solo, but is carried off by security, thank god.]
SUPREME COURT JUSTICE STEPHEN... BREYER!!!!
[Shit! No...way! The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Coldplay, Green Day, Busta Rhymes, the Dixie Chicks and Kanye West team up for an insane performance of Street Fighting Man while a MASSIVE American flag unfurls. The roar of the crowd is heard in 6 states.]
SUPREME COURT JUSTICE ANTHONY... KENNEDY!!!!
Clap...C'clap. Clap. C'clap. Clap.
[Good lord. Sparklers. Speedo. Oh no...we told him three times: no clogging!]
Saturday, January 28, 2006
The State of the Union
Well, a mockery of it, but so close to reality, I don't know whether to laugh or to cry.
Laugh, I guess.
Laugh, I guess.
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Cujos
DSC03446
Originally uploaded by miles10001.
Well,in honor of Bob Loblaw's Blog, I've decided to continue pursuing a dog blog. With that in mind, here are Sabrina and Cooper expressing their open-mouth, fang-baring love for each other. And they said it wouldn't happen.
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Saturday, January 21, 2006
Cooper Redux
Cooper
Originally uploaded by miles10001.
Sideways Cooper. Yes, we now have 3 mini-coopers in the family.
Friday, January 20, 2006
Saturday, January 14, 2006
Photo Blogigng and Links
Miracle of miracles, I actually took an hour to figure this shit out. And, to think, this is supposed to be my business. Go figure. Anyhoo, look for more pics and links in days, weeks and/or months to come.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Blatant Homophobia in the Daily Comics
from a friend...
Hello friends,Have you seen the L.A. Times comics the past few days? They're publishing a week of homophobic "Mallard Fillmore" strips by Bruce Tinsley. In it, a character proudly announces he realized he's homophobic, after being really grossed out by Brokeback Mountain. As is the strip's norm, this is presented without a shred of irony, humor or commentary, but rather plainly as the strip's own point of view. The third person narrator of the strip remains neutrally uncritical. (If you know the strip, you know Tinsley uses it not to create characters or situations, but to nakedly voice his personal opinions.) The emphasis is on his "coming out" as homophobic.
I sure doubt they'd publish a strip about proudly claiming one's racism and being disgusted by black folks. But today in Los Angeles, still a double standard.A friend at the Times assures me they do listen to criticism, especially when more people write to them. So PLEASE take a second now to jot a note saying what you think about their choice to publish this week's homophobic "Mallard Fillmore" strips.
Personally, I find it inexcusably offensive and disgusting.You can do any or all of the following:
1. Email a note to the LA Times Readers' Representative Office at: readers.rep@latimes.com (or call 877-554-4000; it can be as simple as one sentence)
2. Use the online form to drop a note to the LA Times Calendar Section Comments, at this link: http://www.latimes.com/services/site/la-comment-calendar,0,262413.htmlstory (click the top choice: "Calendar section of the Los Angeles Times newspaper")
3. Email a short letter to the Editor, at: letters@latimes.com (include your full name, address and phone number so they can contact you to verify you wrote it; of course it's kept confidential)
Hello friends,Have you seen the L.A. Times comics the past few days? They're publishing a week of homophobic "Mallard Fillmore" strips by Bruce Tinsley. In it, a character proudly announces he realized he's homophobic, after being really grossed out by Brokeback Mountain. As is the strip's norm, this is presented without a shred of irony, humor or commentary, but rather plainly as the strip's own point of view. The third person narrator of the strip remains neutrally uncritical. (If you know the strip, you know Tinsley uses it not to create characters or situations, but to nakedly voice his personal opinions.) The emphasis is on his "coming out" as homophobic.
I sure doubt they'd publish a strip about proudly claiming one's racism and being disgusted by black folks. But today in Los Angeles, still a double standard.A friend at the Times assures me they do listen to criticism, especially when more people write to them. So PLEASE take a second now to jot a note saying what you think about their choice to publish this week's homophobic "Mallard Fillmore" strips.
Personally, I find it inexcusably offensive and disgusting.You can do any or all of the following:
1. Email a note to the LA Times Readers' Representative Office at: readers.rep@latimes.com (or call 877-554-4000; it can be as simple as one sentence)
2. Use the online form to drop a note to the LA Times Calendar Section Comments, at this link: http://www.latimes.com/services/site/la-comment-calendar,0,262413.htmlstory (click the top choice: "Calendar section of the Los Angeles Times newspaper")
3. Email a short letter to the Editor, at: letters@latimes.com (include your full name, address and phone number so they can contact you to verify you wrote it; of course it's kept confidential)
Saturday, January 07, 2006
Friday, January 06, 2006
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
New Media
Wow, we're really there. Best article I've read about where we are and where we're going is here.
Sunday, January 01, 2006
New Year
Let's hope it's a happier, healthier and more peaceful new year.
It couldn't be worse than what just passed, right?
As we say in yoga (and which translates to everthing, cornily, in my life): namaste.
I honor the light within you.
Peace be with you.
It couldn't be worse than what just passed, right?
As we say in yoga (and which translates to everthing, cornily, in my life): namaste.
I honor the light within you.
Peace be with you.
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