Yes, He Did!
Barack Obama has been elected the 44th President of the United States of America.
November 4, 2008
September 11, 2008
In Rememberance
September 2, 2008
So much talking ... Part 2
So little sense ...
May 15, 2008
So Much Talking
So little sense ....
March 13, 2008
KO Special Comment on HC campaign tactics
Well said, KO.
February 6, 2008
So what does it all mean?
After looking at Super Tuesday results last night and today, I have come up with a few impressions about what I think will happen going forward -- at least on the Democratic side. I am not following the Republican side with the appropriate level of diligence to make relevant remarks
February 4, 2008
Integrity of the game
Recently two of the major professional sports, baseball and basketball, have been rocked with scandals that go to the integrity of the competition. Baseball with performance enhancing drugs and basketball with the referee gambling scandal. It has always seemed that professional football was immune to such scandals, even though the tell tale signs of performance enhancing drugs are seemingly evident in the sport.
February 3, 2008
Perfect Season?
No, perfect ending.
I think that for most of the season, Flying Elvis fans thought that they were the wave in "The Perfect Storm". Today, they were the boat.
Greatest QB of all time?
Epic ass beating, 18 knockdowns without counting 5 sacks
Greatest coach of all time?
Out-coached
Greatest team of all time?
You can't cheat and be it. You can't lose and be it.
Greatest feeling of all time?
Oh yes, I can hear the sweet chants of 18-1! ... 18-1! ... 18-1! ringing in my ears
Acronym for the Greatest of all time
GOAT!!!! That pretty much says it all
Perfect Commercial
Perfect ending to the NFL season!
February 2, 2008
Endorse-O-Thon
Yes, We Can.
January 28, 2008
Obama Response to SOTU
January 26, 2008
Obama South Carolina Victory Speech
January 8, 2008
The Aftermath
We had all the momentum; we were riding the crest of a high and beautiful wave. So now, ... you can go up on a steep hill ... and look West, and with the right kind of eyes you can almost see the high-water mark - the place where the wave finally broke and rolled back.
- Hunter S. Thompson, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas
Mahalo Coach Jones. Best of luck in your new challenges.
Goodbye Herman Frazier. May you find new challenges in which to apply yourself.
January 4, 2008
Not so fast, Fancy Pantsuit!
I think all that talk about inevitability of the fancy pantsuit and electability of the guy with the funny name (aka TheOrator) has just gone out the window.
Wonder what her magic mirror said to her last night ... magic mirrors are fun like that.
December 24, 2007
Some people
Sometimes, you just can see the train wreck coming from like 8 miles away. It just takes time for the train to arrive. Public transport metaphor, the theme of the day -- it seems.
One of my former classmates is a very nice person, very kind, very warm, and good looking. Everyone should have friends like that, just nice people that care (looks don't matter). She married a guy that gets by on his looks (literally, is a model), and hitting the double double, has lived a very privileged lifestyle (family is extremely well off). He once ticked me off in a workshop session, because he has expectations that some one will bail him out, no need to be personally responsible. Talk about la-la. This guy is fkn really out there.
Found out today they are divorced. I wish I was not so jaded as to say that wow, I was so surprised, how could that happen? But I was surprised because it really deflated me to hear that.
Then I heard who he is now engaged to be married to, and I heard about how big of a wedding it's going to be, with the fancy custom high fashion house rings, the whole 9. I know the person he is marrying, used to be a co-worker of mine, and quite frankly, they deserve each other. Both spoiled, and both kind of have their head up their ass in terms of their priorities in life.
All I can do is feel some sympathy for my former classmate, and know that she will be 1000 to a 1,000,000x better off with someone else. I guess sometimes you need to live that dream, no matter how tragic it turns out as. I wish her a better future, knowing it will be so much better without him.
I sometimes wonder why some people seem to float through life, as if made with non-stick cooking surface. And why the cool people always seem to get trampled. It does really feel at times like assholes just get everything, why be nice.
December 23, 2007
Tunes By Thumbdrive - Trek Playlist 001
I've decided to log key stats from my morning (and other) treks, perhaps workouts too. Just to keep information and make changes as necessary
Sunday, December 23
Time: 7:58 a.m. - 8:48 a.m.
Style: Walk
Distance: 2.67 mi
Conditions: Gray, wet, humid
Playlist:
The Police - So Lonely
Pink Floyd - Comfortably Numb
Rilo Kiley - A Man, Me, Then Jim
Silversun Pickups - Future Foe Scenarios
James Hunter - People Gonna Talk
Nine Inch Nails - The Good Soldier
The Nightwatchman - One Man Revolution
Nine Inch Nails - The Beginning of the End
Rilo Kiley - Portions for Foxes
Nine Inch Nails - Dead Souls (Joy Division cover)
Arcade Fire - Crown of Love
She Wants Revenge - Out of Control
Observations
Should have gone to restroom prior, made last 1/4 mi interesting.
November 15, 2007
Two observations
With regards to the Bonds indictment, the message here is don't lie in a federal grand jury proceeding. I think what is even more alarmingly stupid or arrogant is the fact that he was provided immunity vs. prosecution for being a steroid user -- and could answer these questions candidly and truthfully, without criminal repercussions. He lied anyway, and no matter what his motives may have been -- I think he may have finally and ultimately tarnished the legacy of his career. I do not believe he will play again, I do not believe his records will stand, and I do not believe he will be elected to the HOF. At the end of the day, the most talented player of his generation was so personally flawed -- arrogant, jealous, covetous -- that he brought down his own house.
---
ARod looks to have begged his way back on to the Yankees. I find this move by the Yanks to be curious, but understandable given the composition of their team without him. Personally I would have let him hang out to dry, after all those shenanigans he and his agent pulled. I find it odd as well that other teams "interested" in him likely would have made offers that were $100M less than the package agreed on in principle. In fact, at the Ducks-Cats game last night, Angels owner Arte Moreno said they would have offered 1/2 the amount. Why the Yanks are essentially padding this contract to an ingrate who had to beg his way back into their favor is unbelievable as well. Unbelievable, totally unbelievable.
November 4, 2007
Rainy day perfect
Nice time to check out the Heaven and Hell RCMH DVD and NIN Beside You in Time
Nothing like rain and gloom -- perfect match for Birmingham doom and dark electronica
November 3, 2007
BC Sunk
Noles 27
#2 BC 17
College football is crazy.
Noles win first game against Top5 team since they were a perennial BCS team several years ago.
October 1, 2007
Name Your Price
There's some buzz in the blogs about the move by the world's best known art band, RH -- and their move to go it alone without a record deal, and self-distribute their new album due out on 10-10.
The biggest buzz is over the band's decision to let fans name their price of how much to pay for digital D/L of the music -- which could be as little as 2 cents, to how ever much someone wants to pay.
This move is interesting. I think that a lot of people are skeptical of this "honorbox" approach to music distribution -- some would criticize that this is similar to Mr. King, the horror novelist, going name your price and that failing miserably in moneymaking terms.
Well, we'll see how this goes -- it certainly is a pretty bold move.
Nice blog at TheLede in NYT this morning on this very topic, check it here.
September 27, 2007
In the wind
ThePolice, next spring at the tail end of a Japan tour
We'll see ....
September 20, 2007
Another high profile cancellation
There comes a point with these mega shows where you have to take the fan hat off and realize that it is all business -- no loyalty to the fans, only to the cash you can make off your nostalgia show.
Reading this morning's paper, I can only vomit a little bit in my mouth about how they want to make UH baseball stadium totally secure so that a show can be "private" next week -- don't you feel good that a large number of our city's cops will go and protect a multi-million dollar corporate shindig, maybe they will pass out mandatory ear plugs to the nearby dorms so that they absolutely and positively cannot hear anything, too
This is why this morning I salute TR.
In front of what was generously 2000 fans at the very spacious and empty Blaisdell ...
A show went on -- no cancellation.
Ticket prices were reasonable for 1994, much less 2007
Despite well documented grumblings on his part about expenses, etc. Despite his grousing about the costs to ship gear to Asia, and perform before crowds that -- well, were at best, unfamiliar with their music. He also grumbled about the overhead of carrying a full rock band out on a short summer tour.
But he played -- was it passion for his fans? or his music? or for performance?
And they played one of the best shows of the year here, hands down
Maybe it was all three, maybe it was out of obligation ... but I definitely respect him for playing despite all the obstacles to putting on a show here. It's really too bad that not many saw it -- that performance deserved a better audience
Not many bands or artists are about the fans anymore -- maybe I'm stupid, but I believe TR/NIN is still one of them
---
Makes me think of old lyrics of an IceT rap:
You think you've made it, you're just a lucky man
Guess who controls your destiny -- FANS
But you diss 'em `cause you think you're a star
That attitude is rude, you won't get far
`Cause they'll turn on you quick, you'll drop like a brick
Unemployment's where you'll sit
No friends cause you dissed 'em too
No money, no crew, you're through
You played yourself...
---
September 19, 2007
Old Style vs. New Style
As a followup to the UToob clip, we posted earlier this week.
An interesting blog basically on topic with what we and others have been discussing for a while -- what does music distrib look like in the future, and isn't there a more equitable way of getting the music out to your fans
Check it out here. Very topical as it discusses Mr. West's approach vs. Mr. Reznor's approach -- and how each is successful on its terms. However, one does seem to make more common sense given the state of technology today.
September 18, 2007
NIN:HNL
Holysh!!
No Words = Experience
A++
Mr. Reznor Sez:
Oh, by the way, before you click ... this clip has some NSFW words, just letting you know
And on a related note, last chance to see the current band lineup tonight ... if you just happen to be in my neck of the woods
August 29, 2007
2 Years Later
August 28, 2007
Easier Said Than Done
Um, yep, Mario ... us USAmericans have trouble saying stuff, so let's not even talk about being done ... like in South Africa or Iraq and such as
August 24, 2007
Heaven and Hell Live at RCMH Listening Party
I'm not a big fan of the other media players besides iT, but if you have (or will consider d/l-ing) Rhapsody -- you can check out the full streaming soon-to-come Rhino album of BlackSabbathw/Dio (now HeavenandHell) live at RCMH from this past March in NYC -- to be released next week on CD and DVD.
Check it out here.
And, the live DVD is being pre-sold at Amazon for the low price of $11.99
The origin of the phrase
Today's phrase: "jumping the shark"
Where you feel like:
I don't think this show has any more good ideas left -- who wrote this crap?
Also attached to the arrival of certain characters, like Cousin Oliver and Scrappy Doo
August 15, 2007
Oddly enough
Moveon has found an explanation for the whole "let's not go into Bag" at the end of the last desert war -- a decision which had always puzzled me. Now, in context of current events, this rationale makes nonsense of our current skirmish and problems -- indeed our actions are foolish, tragic, and stupid.
(From Moveon.org)
August 14, 2007
Did Han Shoot First?
Was Mr. A ever a part of VH?
I have to admit, I thought the superimposing of Ed's kid onto classic VH album photos in the place of Mike the one true bassist and BGV force of nature, was downright tacky and offensive. Then again, I thought to myself that it wouldn't be the first time that someone arbitrarily took liberties and made highly questionable edits -- for the sake of personal whim, that now, we would like to revisit the whole idea of .... for example, Greedo shooting first in SW SpecialEd or ... disowning Mike's part in the band entirely ... when I think about it further, to continue my rant, it's like two impostors in KISS makeup that wear the classic Spaceman and Cat persona makeup ... and we should still think of the re-visioning as the same?!?!?!
Update:
Well, looks like some sanity prevailed. The image of Mr. A was restored to the album cover photos. Too bad he won't be part of the reformation tour -- it is hard for me to conceive of the classic VH sound sans the big fat bass lines and BGV harmonies ... maybe Ed's kid can pull it off? who knows. I guess personally I'm at the point where I no longer support 3VH plus Dave anyway. I just don't support the direction, so I will move on.
August 6, 2007
Weird and Creepy
There was a time that I really enjoyed BLB Jr.'s play. That was 15-20 years ago. In fact, I actually owned a cotton replica unnumbered button-down Pirates jersey -- the Pirates were fun to watch, the Yanks sucked at the time. I cheered for the Buccos against the budding dynasty that was the Braves. I marvelled at this talented skinny dude, BLB Jr. who had all the tools, the glove, the D, the incredible hitting ability.
I didn't feel like I needed to necessarily weigh in on the whole 755+1 thing -- I just will provide a few observations at why I am not so eager to celebrate this accomplishment.
His career numbers basically illustrate it out, in a ridiculous way. If you cut his career down the middle -- he had hit 292 when he was 30, or in his 10th season. By comparison, ARod who hit his 500th today hit 464 by the time he was 30.
BLB Jr., by all accounts and measures, at the time he signed with the SFG in 1993, was certainly in the discussion for best player in the game, along with GriffeyJr. at the time. Was there any reason to believe he would hit another 464 over the most recent 12 seasons?
It's funny because when I was growing up, I found it hard to accept that people grow old, their talent goes away. A study by GustavusAdophusUniversity found that for most of the great HR hitters (those with 500+ HRs), their peak of home run hitting performance happens between their 6th and 10th seasons. This conforms with the common sense, "believe what your eyes see" approach -- players rise, have a peak/prime, then decline
If we accept the conclusions of the well-researched GameOfShadows, BLB Jr. had a whole regimen of performance enhancers that he was on. The absolutely unbelievable aspect of this whole story is that BLB Jr. was a HOF first balloter even without the "assistance".
Deep inside, as sports fans, we hope to see amazing things, good competition, and we want to believe what our eyes see -- that's why things like the whole NBA gambling ref fiasco and the breaking of the career HR record shake the confidence of this common fan to the core.
The man with 755 was by all accounts a great player -- consistent beyond belief, never had a 50 or more HR season -- just year after year putting up 40s, into his 40s. His career numbers are a testament to consistent performance.
The man with 755+1 obviously let his own personal vanity get in the way. How can you tarnish a sure thing HOF career, one that was arguably going to go down as best player of a generation, without "assistance". I find the vanity of trying to a) break the single season mark -- motivated by jealousy of Mac&Sammy's popularity, and b) tarnish the all-time HR record with questions, clouds, and controversy -- it's all just creepy and weird.
Did we all love BLB Jr. more for these things? Make no mistake about it, the guy can hit, probably has the best "eye" for reading pitches ever, just look at his career walks -- amazing.
We should be celebrating this achievement -- I just feel like vomiting in my mouth over this whole thing because it is clear that one man's pursuit from being a top 5 baseball player in a generation to become an all-time baseball god was so misguided and selfish.
And at the end of the day, less fans like him ... and the great game is tarnished for selfish reasons.
June 6, 2007
Big year for the nosties
Lots of nostalgia, particularly of the 80s sort, coming our way. Apparently, the AFOS and other new wave bands still on for much later at AlohaTower. Some speculation now that we will get Asia (reunion of all four original members) in Aug, and ... well, these guys aren't nosties, but LosLonelyBs are a possibility in Sept
May 23, 2007
Just not terribly exciting
As the Association playoffs enter the conference finals, I couldn't be more indifferent with the four teams remaining. They all play team basketball, and you would think that I would actually enjoy that. However, there isn't really any sizzle to the matchups -- in many ways, I would be terribly surprised if both series were not swept by the Car parts and Boot accessories, as they are the superior sides
Assuming I am correct, a Finals rematch of 2005 should be pretty good ... but for now, zzzzz
---
The Association lottery ... does this process make any sense to anyone?
Yes, I find peculiar, dark pleasure in seeing them Green Leprechauns get shut out of spots 1 and 2, and probably spiral some more down the tubes. However, what good is it to have the worst and second worst team in the league, as a result of a random lottery, end up picking fourth and fifth in a draft with two obvious great players who could potentially change the fortunes of those cities.
Lakers, Celtics, Knicks ... at this point, could not be any more irrelevant -- yet I suppose I think that the Association would be much better if these franchises were healthy and dominant, rather than middling to sucking as they are right now ... but that's just me
---
This may be the first season that I am vaguely familiar with what is going on with that long running series AI. I'm not expert on the show, I hardly watch it -- but I think that at least for this year, there is this sense that the outcomes are as put-on, predetermined, and heavily influenced by producers as ... professional wrestling. Whether this means the long awaited death of this rather mindlessly entertaining show for the masses ... TBD, but the cracks in its armor are showing, producer arrogance is very evident, the "stars" it produces are largely irrelevant, etc.
I must say that last night's program was such a mismatch of epic proportions that I would almost consider it producer induced show suicide if the underdog won tonight. I mean, it would be such an all-time fiasco of juiced/fix is in, that the masses would leave in droves. And yet, if the favorite won, it would be quite the anti-climax as well. The show is over the barrel, and it's about time
---
Lastly, I watched some of that legislative Herman Inquisition on TV a few days ago, and I came away with the following impressions:
1. UH is much bigger than just its Ath department. Why legislators would want a briefing from only the UH ath dept is a big mystery to me, ath facilities issues, football sched fiasco, Wallace contract/Nash selection fiasco, not withstanding
UH sports certainly are important to the community, that is without question.
2. The current chancellor is a lame duck, and sure acts like it
3. The current AD is doing an okay job, there are some obvious issues with his performance. But I don't think you get to the performance issues by drumming on him for 4 1/2 hours, in many ways, it became like the Oliver North hearings -- if anything, I would think more people sympathized with HF after that full on, attempted hatchet job
4. I think that if you are going to have a witch hunt, you should understand the principles of the childhood game from Milton Bradley, Which Witch is Which. Simply, know what the witch looks like before you go on a witch hunt, or else you look like angry townspeople with pitchforks and torches ablaze ... in other words, pretty out of control
5. Lastly, although fans are an important part of the overall UH ath dept equation -- one certainly cannot run an ath dept from such an emotional and passionate place. It made Kmart's questioning look totally retarded. Seriously dude, who cares if you lettered in swimming at UH, tried to hug Wags at the BYU win, or tried to tear down a goalpost
The passionate fan perspective is no way to run an ath dept, nor is it a good way to evaluate the performance of an ath director.
6. Fire HF!!! is a very easy road to go down. Saying someone messed up is very easy to say in hindsight. I would like to see our legislators take a supporting role in the matter, facilitate constructive improvements to all of UH including the ath dept ... than appear as fickle as fans and ask fan-type questions which are at the end of the day, not very important
What the fans think is not the first priority when trying to manage the priorities of an ath dept
7. Why is Senator Sakamoto so cool? If you watched the briefing, I think we got another example. Constructive, above the fray, inclusive, professional, supportive.
May 21, 2007
One song each ... then good night?
Okay, maybe two
Any way, there is speculation that the Lost 80s tour will come and play here in September. The basic lineup of the tour is AFOS, DRR, WhenInRome, and G-Loves-J. The huh? about this speculation is that they will be playing at AlohaTower, Kaponos
To say that we are curious about what the bands look/play like, as well as what the fans look like ... well, that would be the understatement of the late 2000s
May 7, 2007
What I've been reading
Well, as I have yet to blog up ... spent a week in the "apple in decay" of 4NR LLWFHome fame. During my stay, I was intrigued by the heroic story of a construction worker who dived down into the subway rails to cover up someone who fell off the train platform ... and they both survived. And, the construction worker became a local legend ... and a national hero, whose fame took him to the talk show circuit ... and little did I know, so much more
Check out the story here ... would I be cut out to be a hero? Not too sure after this
April 26, 2007
In a month or so
The things that can happen in a month or so. Long story short, it's been a busy month and change -- as always, the thing that doesn't get updated is this here blog
I do have things that I want to write-up, so those things are coming ... hopefully soon
Before that, a grindhouse style answer to what was in the PulpF briefcase from the Q himself ... from a cool short interview from RR/QT
Check it out here
March 20, 2007
If you like that sort of thing ...
You can preview the Sabbath Dio Years album, with full length songs, through a QT featured music link on the Apple website. Sounds much better than my old ass cds, even through the players.
Check it out here.
March 16, 2007
The Aftermath
I didn't really write much when I found out about the death of Brad D. last week. Now that I have found out that it was a suicide, and perhaps learned a little too much information about the particulars, I think that the level of the tragedy has just gone up a few notches in intensity for me.
What I feel is this, sometimes it is easy to look upon our own lives and consider/wonder about how our lives are so average, normal, mundane, boring, whatever ... and we look to certain talented people in the arts, music, theatre, comics, (name your passion) as these standards of excellence -- and their work provides such a great level of enjoyment.
Never does it cross my mind that the people who I admire for their talents, well ... I never assume that they are in some way unhappy or troubled. I just naively think, well, they are so blessed with talent, fame, riches, etc. --- hmm, ergo, they must be happy and content in their lives and legacy, especially when there are no obvious self-destructive signs, particularly the tell tale signs of hard living (i.e., alcohol, drugs, trouble with the law, etc.)
When I learned the whats and wherefores about BD's death, I came to realize that what I think someone in that position would value, or find value and contentment in their lives ... well, it just may not be so to that person. I guess we all have our own demons ... and we all have our own reasons to live. Should we no longer find that enough to live on, I can see how the weight of this life ... perhaps greater if you have expectations put on you, whatever they may be -- well, I think it can pull you under.
Did that happen here? I do not know. It's sad to hear about how he cared a lot about others well being in his death, but no longer wished to live for himself or for those others that he clearly deeply cared about. One who has brought so much happiness to others, could not find happiness for himself anymore.
The music lives on, but there will be nothing new.
4NR
You wanna talk about pleasant surprises? 4NR's show last night was absolutely amazing. Best that I've seen from a reconstituted, nostalgia band, which is missing key personnel.
As I commented earlier when I was on the fence, they only sold half the house for the show, but this smallish crowd of probably 3000-4000 was really treated to a classic arena rock show. Just fantastic!
March 13, 2007
A new home
For UFC? This morning I completed a fanzone survey for the "worldwide leader" relating to ESPN possibly carrying and covering UFC in what I presume will be the near future.
Observations about last night's RRHOF within...
March 9, 2007
RIP Brad Delp
The voice behind Boston is silenced forever.
March 8, 2007
What More ...
Can go wrong? I know that sometimes we all can get caught up with the bad things that happen to others ... especially performers/celebs that we care about. However, at this point, I am just so stunned/deadened with what is going on with the state of 3VH as to be like ... umm, I think everyone just needs to go away, get their head straight, ... or maybe even just go away for good and do other productive things with their lives.
February 28, 2007
Brought back to limited success
If you check out MTV's NL site, they have posted links to Korn's UPlugd performance.
Check it out here.
Well, to be fair, I think there is a reason why the band has a big sound -- the performance of the songs in this format was pretty much "ehhh" to me.
February 27, 2007
Going nowhere ... musically
Today I decided to listen to a backlog of new release metal podcasts from one of my all-time favorite labels, MetalBlade. If the state of MB over the past several months is any indication, metal is going through a serious growth crisis, not unlike the late 80s ... where a shakeup is required to bring new influences into the genre
February 26, 2007
Pre-PPD: 2 outta 3 ain't bad
There is an interesting RS interview conducted with the elder two of 3VH.
Interesting stuff, go to here and take a listen to the clips.
New BS
Or HnH, The Devil Cried... big, fat, dirgy, dark ... and just okay imo
Check it out here from the Rhino site
February 25, 2007
Somewhat Busy ... For What It's Worth
Since I've been somewhat busy with work and other life stuff, I haven't been staying abreast of two changes that mean so much to the world of rock. Well, so I found out on this lazy Sunday ...
The first is no damn big surprise, the elusive cd with the initials CD, which had a tentative release date as 3/6 has totally, utterly, completely dropped off the face of any release list for music this year. I guess it is sufficient to tour and play the "new" songs (some which are who knows how old by now) ... not interested in that "reunion", more like reformation anyways
The one that I am pulling for because of what it could be, as we discovered earlier, appears truly doomed. Now, there are rumors that the 2VH may not be showing up at all at RRHOF -- along with the rumors that personalities (or one person is) are holding up the plans.
And the thing I learned today from MelodicRock.com is that VH albums have outsold the total albums of four prominent artists, including the ubiquitous You, Too ... and the eccentric purple one
February 22, 2007
Does That Make Me Crazy?: Days 2-4
No blogging the past two days, but yes, the insanity continues
February 20, 2007
Ummm ... Yeah
And this is why, I take a I'll believe it when I see it approach to the 3VH+DLR tour
To summarize, the tour is on hold indefinitely, read more here
Nice pic on RS (to go along with the "it took years" VH website re-do), though ....
The drama, if any of it is left, remains the RRHOF induction on March 12th ... will the band be talking tour ... or turkey
Well, that trashes the see a show in LV thing ... not really into FallOutBoy or Celine Dion. Perhaps Taylor Dane will be in town ...
February 19, 2007
War Inside My Head: Day 1
So I wonder to myself, am I insane ... or are the times I live in insane?
I hope to discover the answer to this over the course of the next 28 days, as I embark on a diet/fitness/wellness program, partially of my own design ... well, the exercise portion anyways.
As such, I will be keeping a journal to mentally note my observations throughout the process. It probably won't be exciting reading at all, just the meanderings of someone trying to kickstart a healthier lifestyle
February 16, 2007
MBE Recommendations
Been getting back into watching MBE sessions on kcrw.com, there are some excellent recent sessions on there.
The Damien Rice session is awesome in its depth of emotion and the beauty of the performance. I don't think there are any better than DR in writing deeply personal lyrics and songs of such beautiful orchestration (M voice, F voice, piano, cello) ... the songs of his new album, 9, are fantastic
Our fave band of the moment, Silversun Pickups, has a really great session as well. If you didn't know anything of the band prior to seeing them, you may make a few perception mistakes ... especially around the tone of the vocals. They just plain rock.
At MTV's site, as part of their discover and download live series, they have a 5 song live performance by SSPU. You can check it out here. Then, when it is playing in the sidebar, click on the 5 videos, and it will have all the songs
The energetic performance of Honeycut is just plain fun ... the crazy dancing and energy, neat stuff
And if you like energy, check out Rodrigo y Gabriela, seems like I cannot recommend them enough. Talk about not believing your eyes and ears.
February 13, 2007
Fiery
A small recommendation this morning.
If you are a classic rock fan and haven't yet checked out wolfgangsvault.com, there are a ton of classic live show boots in their concert vault, including a pretty amazing sounding one of the legendary SRV, which I was listening to this morning.
I mean, talk about knocking the Jimi classic, VooChi, out of the park ... simply amazing. It is a unique opportunity to rediscover your favorite artists live. And I suppose the best part of it all is that for now, this site is free reg, and free to listen
The thing I like about the site is the great variety of performers, everything from AFOS, to Genesis, to the classic lineup of Sabb, to Zep, etc. etc. Check it out and give it a listen, neat site.
February 12, 2007
Boys play rock and roll
After a long hiatus, well they did play at their induction for RRHOF ... that aside
Worst kept surprise: World Tour, like of the everywhere-kind ... NorthAm, Europe, back to NorthAm, Mex-SouthAm, Japan-Aus-NZ
Could it be better on a Monday morning in the middle of the Pacific?
Played:
Message In a Bottle
Voices in My Head/When the World is Running Down
Can't Stand Losing You (really rough in parts, but cool extended end jam)
Roxanne
Impressions:
Just good ol' nostalgia, that's all
Las Vegas, June 15th??? .... this could really be the best concert year in a long time ... if I can get tickets. I will be in LV for the tentative VH dates, and the Police date ... add in HnH in NYC, and this year is shaping up ridiculously well
February 9, 2007
You're my friend, not their friend
I recall, as probably many of you can, those uncomfortable moments when you are growing up where you make choices or choices are made for you -- regarding whose friend you are going to be, and whose you will not be
It can be a very pressurized situation with very awkward results, as you realize that the "friend(s)" you chose, were not really the right friends to choose after all. Or maybe some of these "friend(s)" gave you an ultimatum, and you just went along. And, like in bad 80s teen movies, you realize that that really wasn't the right choice after all
When you are older, these things seem to fade in importance, as you realize that you can make your own choices, somewhat free of coercion ... or does it, really?
Interesting investor's article on EA related to them being choosing (forced?) to be the 3's friend ... rather than the Whee's friend.
Read it here.
February 8, 2007
UndergroundHipHop = NoWomen
Video from old style, new school rapper Pigeon John.
If you like old school flow and clever humor, check him out
The video is here
In case you are wondering why I am repping PJ or hiphop, he has done sessions on MBE as well. So there you go ... eatin bean burritos, eatin them well
His album, Pigeon John & The Summertime Pool Party is way too funny.
February 2, 2007
4NR presale
As you may know by now, that band with the classic album 4 is coming here in March.
Again, there is someone key missing from the picture ... but if you like the music, the new lineup is pretty solid with the addition of Jeff P (x-Dokken) and Jason B (son of Zep John). I guess if you know the history of the band, the band has had a few lineups over the years, so that may not be a dealbreaker
For us, just plain on the fence about it
Update:
Now here's some thinking out of the box ... if you can't sell the whole house, do you sell what you can? I looked at what ticket levels were available out of curiosity ... and they aren't selling loge or upper tix, only floor and riser seats. Interesting approach, I wonder if they get to rent the arena for 1/2 price too ... yes, rely on me for smartitude and ridonkulousness
February 1, 2007
Whee > 3
Interesting article in the NYT, discussing the rise of the Whee and the shaky start of the 3.
Read it here
At the end of the day, it seems that the point of the entire exercise of playing VGs is fun
An earthshattering conclusion, I must say ... Who would have thought that?
January 30, 2007
The week of confirmations
So we have heard this week that DLR in back in 3VH
Now some confirmation for the other reunion, The Police will play the Grammys in two weeks, with tour to be announced soon
I suppose, the downside about these two tours is that they are highly unlikely to reach our neck of the woods ... too bad
January 26, 2007
Betamax 2: the electric boogaloo
Again, let me say, that my days of vegging and really getting in some serious console videogame playing are LONG ... let me repeat LOOONNGGG gone, done, finito. As an odd note, I find myself at times falling asleep while playing, I mean how darn pathetic is that
So, today I noticed that PS3s are beginning to be sold naked ... yes, unbundled, no extra games commitment to own a system. For that matter, are there any games for this machine?!?!!?
I think that when the epitaph (aka writing on the gravestone) is done for this machine, the question will be ... okay, what was the hype about? ... and dos, game consoles require something ... hmm lemme think, I'm guessing games
See that tumbleweed go by? Yes, I know that this is a real dead time for game releases, but man, talk about me wondering if I need a $599 paper weight, dust magnet, bookend, space eater ... it plays games, huh? I say when
And that's where SILLY should be concerned, because the question is also WHO? as in who will buy these things, to play non-existent games, to pay money that could be used on a much more exciting thing like ... hmm, I'm thinking iPho
The dreamcast and neogeo may soon have a dining partner in failed console nirvana
January 24, 2007
An american thing?
As fortune would have it, I will be in that neck of the woods for the Radio City show. But something odd struck me about presales today
January 18, 2007
TdM
So today me and the colaborers went to TacoDelMar. I guess that it will always be with new things over here that the lines will be long with the curious and the hungry.
How is it? Well, if you remember the old BigBurrito franchise, the burritos are like that ... a ridiculously big 1-2 pounder wrapped in tear as you eat foil. However, there is no variety on the flavors of meats like BB ... just plain ol' mex. It also comes in a smaller size for a $1 less, but even the small one will work your appetite over and render you useless for the remainder of the afternoon/evening
I think that the burrito is the best value, the other things like tacos, enchiladas, and salads seem comparatively small in portion to the burritos. And it tastes okay, fresh tasting ... slightly better than generic TB, but nothing that one would mistake as authentic. The items are assembled from a subway-type ingredient line, some extras cost $1 more
Overall, it was an interesting tasting lunch, nothing I would rave about -- but it is a pretty good value alternative if you want different mexfood, that is fast and pretty good
January 9, 2007
Last to Notice
KROQ is now streaming ... who says I pay attention?
January 8, 2007
Random tidbit
From the folks at G4
A funny parody of the Mac-PC commercials, but this time involving PS3-Wii
View it here
January 5, 2007
Interesting Speculation
While planning out future travel plans, I happened to come across an interesting tidbit about a possible Police reunion to commemorate the 30th anniversary of their first single, with possible dates in the US and UK starting up in May/June.
I don't see it happening ... well, never say never especially with the HFO moment impending reunion of Roth joining the all-VH new VH
Read about it here
Side note:
Note that at the time of their breakup, they were absolutely worldwide huge. If they had stayed together the whole time, like their contemporaries You, Too, who would people be talking about right now as the biggest band in the world? Yes, I think about such things
December 28, 2006
Breakfast with Ed
This morning around 9 our time, Maiden is on the Swedish woah-oh Radio
Update:
In a curious move, their set was all the new album and a few warhorses -- always surprises me when bands do this. Anyway, first time that I had heard tracks from the new album -- all in all, it's still IM, nothing will surprise if you have been listening to the band's approach BNW forward
December 27, 2006
MLD
If any of you are interested, there is a pilot on PBS during their Independent Lens program, about 25 minutes or so in, called "My Life ... Disoriented". I watched it last night, and it is good to see an Asian American centered television program. It has three airtimes -- unfortunately two were burned off last night.
So, one more chance to see it (or more like DV-R that sucker), 2 AM on December 31st ... that means late night this coming Saturday (as it turns into Sunday morning), I get confused about these weird times, too
And if you like it, the official website has links where you can let the PTB know that you support the show. That site is here.
Check it out, especially if you like shows on MTV, the old WB, CW, etc.
One more thing, there are two preview clips:
Clip #1
Clip #2
December 26, 2006
It Doesn't Add Up
091101=2973
122606=2978
2978+X > 2973
-OR-
2973+2978=5991
5991+X = ???
Either way, this W.o.T is extracting a huge death cost in lives
ADD in the people whose only fault is living in a war zone
5991+54500 = 60491
60491 + X = unconscionable massacre of human life, by any standard
December 25, 2006
Merry Christmas
James Brown is finally free ... and war is over (if you want it)
December 1, 2006
"One" Shining Moment?
Let me just say that one of the reasons why I am not in marketing is because it would never occur to me to come up with something like you will see here.
And that's your sense of humor check for the day
November 26, 2006
Forgiveness
(Courtesy NY Times)
November 24, 2006
Coming soon to a Hawaii near you
From the Make Poverty History concert in Oz, a certain band from Raintown, and a couple members from that little, obscure band from Dublin
Uptempo, rocking version of RIFTW
Here
November 22, 2006
Monte Moment
Pretty fun cover of the H&O classic Sara Smile by Monte Montgomery
November 21, 2006
FA@TM
My favorite artist at the moment (well actually, for most of the year) -- Brandi Carlile
A great live version of Tragedy (which a lot of people know from a great ep of Grey's A)
Music on boats, who knew
Here
October 31, 2006
Halloween Haiku
Last Stones show ever (riiiiggghhttt) ....
Goes to Vancouver, no show for us.
Too bad, trick or treat !!!
October 30, 2006
Rumor O' De Day
Hard to top the VH/Roth rumors of last week.
But, speculation is high that the Stones show here will be cancelled, due to some alleged scheduling shenanigans leading up to the documentary shows in NYC last night and tomorrow -- oh yeah, and no big f-n surprise, because the show is selling poorly ... I guess people finally say, too much is too much when it comes to ticket prices.
October 23, 2006
Monster Fest Time ... Woo Woo Woo?
Ah yes, it's that time of year again when AMC decides to run a marathon of classic horror movies ... going way way back and then hitting the classic 80s slasher shlumps
So actually being prepared this year, I thought that I would record some of the movies that I hadn't seen in a while ... and play them back at my leisure. Well, small problem, what the hark is the problem with transmission of AMC on OC, good jeebus!?!?
The quality of my recordings was the pits ... so I checked one of them while it was airing, holy crap, someone tune that channel in ... I am disappointed
October 18, 2006
Habeas Corpus No More
October 16, 2006
Verging on ridiculous
And by this, I mean this is turning out to be a ridiculously good year for big act/live music here on the quakeable shakeable. Just saw the announcement that PJ will be playing its own solo show (last for its current tour in support of its latest) in addition to its open-the-show for U2, one week before (12/2). Opening for PJ will be one of SL's favorite under the radar bands, Kings of Leon.
For those keeping score, the big show dance card looks like this:
Stones with Thorogood & the Destroyers --- 11/22
PJ with KOL --- 12/2
U2 with PJ and R&tDs --- 12/9
Ze Piano Man -- 12/16
Not mentioned are the little shows here and there with up and coming bands, like Blue October on WED at the Hale Koa, and the eight days later, the brilliant metal of KSE at Pipe ... not going to either, but I've been impressed with the amount of shows this year both large and small (yes, the Pipeline boycott continues)
You know, the only problem is cash flow ... these shows are all pretty pricey, and at the end of the day, it will be pick and choose, not go to them all ... ehhh, those high ticket prices.
October 7, 2006
Good times, good times
SD and I went to see Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo with the symphony tonight. Excellent, excellent show.
October 6, 2006
Tried a new product
On a side note, before I begin, did you know that Dr. Pepper concentrate is prepared kosher? Found that out today, interesting tidbit, no?
Anyways, within is a summary of consumer products that I have tried recently, and my impressions of them ...
October 5, 2006
More KO
A special comment from Keith Olbermann on the "truthiness" of El Busho
September 29, 2006
The Power to Mess Up Programs
Inadvertently X D
I went to the midweek site and got this message:
"You have caused a template loop due to improperly nested sub-templates"
Funny, because I think some surfers will think they caused it ... oh well
September 28, 2006
Son of Random Video
Ah yes, the love theme from "The Spy Who Loved Me"
From a most unlikely cover band
September 27, 2006
20 Years Later
RIP Cliff, the band ain't been the same without you
September 26, 2006
What's it all about?
What ever happened to the punk ethic of having cheap rock shows? I know, in the grander scheme of things, the affordability of concert tickets is hardly a blip on the scale of importance regarding world problems
It had occurred to me recently that some of the BIG bands realized that as their audience gets older ... they must have more money, so we will charge them accordingly. I read an article that within the past handful of years, ticket prices for the BIG shows have doubled ... and some more than that
September 25, 2006
More KO
A special comment by Keith Olbermann on the FOX Clinton interview
When Random Video Attacks
I remember this one from LiquidTV, oh so many years ago
Still cool, even today
Great stuff from Plympton
September 18, 2006
More KO
A special comment by Keith Olbermann about why El Busho should say sorry
September 11, 2006
Five Years Later
A special comment by Keith Olbermann on nine eleven, five years later
September 7, 2006
Can't pretend about things that are real
I find the allegations about the new miniseries on nineEleven (to likely air this weekend) highly disturbing. This past year has seen two movies related to the topic, and besides wondering if they are "too soon", there is always the question about if they are too fictionalized/dramatized a representation of the actual real events ... to be redundant, that actually happened
My three observations about the controversial miniseries
1. The series allegedly overemphasizes President Clinton and his cabinet's role in promoting the environment that lead to nineEleven, including fictionalizing events that suggest that we could have taken down OBL if the President wasn't so concerned about his personal Lewinsky scandal -- and that gross leadership misfeasance lead to missed opportunities to prevent terrorism
2. A major educational provider plans to give this movie to high schools as a teaching aid to learn about nineEleven. Again, this is a tricky fine line because this is not a historical movie, it is admittedly a dramatic interpretation of events. Given the historical importance of the event, would you want your child learning it from such a simplistic at best, and incorrect at worst, vehicle
3. Lastly, and I think this follows on with the first two points -- if it does fictionalize events to make the show more interesting, and if it takes a dramatic slant (some would say, right wing view) that the Clinton administration is largely to blame -- then it is not as the network claims, to be largely based in the nineEleven commission's report. So, it will drag a whole ton of people, ideas, and events through a dramatic reshaping ... and out of it will come (regrettably) some people's understanding of what actually happened, in other words, some people will learn the wrong thing -- and the network does not appear concerned about this eventuality
I just happen to think that no matter what the informational vehicle, the events of that day are too important to be reduced to entertainment, for entertainment's sake.
In many ways, I still do not feel that we as citizens know the answers to key questions as well. I don't think anyone is served by this kind of television, much less find it remotely useful to educate our children with about one of our country's seminal historical events
September 6, 2006
10:45
Did you know where your loved ones were last night?
If yours were like mine, they were stuck in the worst traffic jam in our island's history for six ... seven ... eight hours (minor, really). And there is more than a large part of me that feels that this could have been avoidable with some creativity and quick decision making on the part of our local government officials
September 5, 2006
When did?
This former sportscaster become the last of the journalists, actually doing NEWS on the tube ... actually raising questions about the direction of important issues facing this country ... actually informing us of things we should know
A special comment by Keith Olbermann
September 3, 2006
the D ~ TPoD
I actually want to see this -- disturbing, isn't it?
September 1, 2006
Good Times, Good Times
When seriously hip goes seriously wrong
Here
August 31, 2006
Don't Live There
I suppose that the worst thing about the redistricting a few years back is that I no longer live in district two for the congressional races here. Too bad, it seems like these have been ... and are again the best, well actually most interesting races
After watching the "forum" tonight, a few things were very evident to me:
"Young" did better than "Old" in the format, yet has the charisma of hmmm ... J. Kerry, comes to mind, in other words -- bland. Yes, handsome cannot save you if you are bland. Seeming more articulate than a 80-something is really not saying much, if you're bland.
What to say about "Old" -- you know, I think that there are other qualities of effectiveness besides I can speak on TV better than you -- a major basis for the election of our current gov, mind you. However, I think working behind the scenes in congress is a much more important criteria than speaking decent on TV
"Old" looked old last night, and "Young" looked well ... less old. That's about it, it was about as boring an hour of TV, I've seen in a long time.
---
In a related note, the commercial that "old" put out this week, to compare his effectiveness to "young" was ridiculously high on the unintentional comedy scale. I mean, it was basically, pick me ... i am the slightly less ineffective one -- I mean, those stats cited ... both of them are more than ineffective on the basis of the measurables, they appear to be incompetent according to the statistics. And the comparisons of "old" to other name democrats ... I couldn't laugh more, when you see names like JK, BO, all "presidential" candidate material supposedly
Ehhh, I don't live there ... that's good, I guess
August 30, 2006
Who really are the fascists and appeasers?
A special commentary by Keith Olbermann on the comments of Rumsfeld
August 23, 2006
Subbed > Dubbed
I saw an unexpected thing last night.
Crayon Shinchan has been added to the adultswim lineup.
It is dubbed in engelbert, with US cultural references added to the dialog, and a voice for CS that makes him sound like the nelson on the simpsons, post puberty ... in other words, he sounds like a dee-duh-dee
I was sitting there, thinking ... man, this show is so much better in the nihongo, oh well
And now, your reminder that we live in the last days
Here
August 22, 2006
Perspective (or lack thereof)
Ignorance is a killer, isn't it? Or, sometimes one's lack of perspective does cost money
There are ups and downs in life, that is one of life's great or harsh truths that we all must learn. Let's cut to the chase, shall we?
$3.00
August 6, 2006
Bon Dance: Many Years Later
Afterwards we went over to a bon dance at our temple. Maybe it's been a while since I've been to one, but wow, there were like 3-4 rings of dancers. I was surprised at how many people were there, and how hard it is to find parking in Manoa at night ... that's a story for another time
And what is it exactly that makes people want to go cuckoo for undagi at these things, that line was very long. The thing I have always liked to eat at our temple events is the fire grilled shoyu corn on the cob -- last night it fully lived up to past memories and then some, that was so good
I'm not sure if it's the same everywhere nowadays, but it seems like everyone has a greater awareness of taiko drumming ... and has some kind of exhibition, last night there was a taiko performance as well. Got to see my 2nd cousin perform and he is a pretty amazing drummer
And of course, you always see someone you don't expect to. Saw some family friends, hey you never know what people's hobbies are ... they like to dance, interesting
August 2, 2006
This is awesome
This dares to challenge the why of life ... with zest, wonder, and humor
Ham plus CD player equals good times
July 25, 2006
Killing my formative year icons ...
In a What If kind of way ... what if the black helmet cape guy were the manager of a supermarket. Want to learn more? Click here
Also, new ... well, err kinda new Yacht Rock!!! ... this time featuring the little known feud btwn the Dan and the Eagles. Last one ever, bummer
July 22, 2006
Completely Surreal
Thoughout my life, I've been to several "open casket" funerals ... I could never really put my finger on what I felt as I finally made my way to see a person lying in state, endless sleep.
July 20, 2006
Good things come to those
Who wait ?!?!?!?
I seriously have a rough time with managing my expectations about live entertainment here. In other words, I just go along like something will happen ... then hey, let's all get disappointed over something that smells of being a trial balloon rather than an actual commitment of some act to actually play here
Well, I think I have been fortunate to see more than a few exciting bills ... just lucky, coincidence. For example, when I saw the Stones in LA, they were taking Living Colour out to tour with them ... no one expected GNR, but they only played during the LA dates. Very Happy Coincidence
So finally today, after a four month hiatus filled with rumors about whether they would, would not, could, could not ... that little band from Dublin decided to play here after all in December. And along with the roadie band, we are getting a taste of the re-energized Pearl Jam ... again, this is a Very Happy Coincidence, if it actually comes to pass
The dog year is shaping up to be quite a year for live shows here ... and that's a good thing
July 19, 2006
Crumpled like paper
Worlds of wonder week continues for me. As I drove home this afternoon, there was some kind of accident on the onramp to the freeway. Lots of service vehicles were there, and a police car was blocking the lane you merge into from the on ramp
Because everyone was just going so slow, I caught a passing glance of one of the vehicles involved. Well, you heard of crumple zones, this car looked like someone crumpled up some paper ... then unballed it and you can see all the criss crossing of wrinkles and lines, dents, and puffs
The car looked like that and I wondered how did it get like that ... I mean usually it looks like one end or the body is accordioned ... this one looked like Godzilla walked by, and the evil lizard that he is, decided to crumple up a car in his teeny hands, then drop it back to the ground from his short alligator arms ... but I digress
Everyone involved looked pretty much okay ... and I suppose that is interesting, given how the one car looked.
July 18, 2006
YDSSLTED
Have you ever seen those shredded commercial truck tires on the side of the road, just strips of shredded rubber with steel belting all twisted and exposed?
While I was driving to work this morning, I finally saw what happens when a semi blows out a tire. It's quite an amazing thing to see -- it's like a tree chipper or something, there's like this whoosh sound, then pieces and bits get shot out and go flying everywhere.
The funny thing is, I don't think if you are in the truck you can tell until the whole tread path is ripped away ... so they just keep on truckin' along ... and then a second whoosh sound as the rest of the tread is chopped up and spit onto the road way. I guess after that happened, the driver felt it bumping along the road so he pulled off.
I guess I was lucky in that I was in the lane farthest away, but it was something pretty interesting to watch ... you don't see something like this every day.
July 11, 2006
Pie Game
Well, actually it's not really a game ... just some interesting factoids about children's issues
The mindfeeding time waster is here, courtesy our favorite socially conscious ice cream maker
July 10, 2006
Time Consuming Hobby
Okay, I admit, I would never ... ever think of doing this in 8 million years. But someone has, and truth be told, it's kind of a cool (slightly unfinished) idea. SW:ANH in ASCII ... it gets up to the point where Luke discovers the princess.
See it here
July 6, 2006
Tidbits
Just some things that I have noticed in my scan of sites and emails.
On a side note, I finally saw the whole P-a-n-t-e-r-a BTM on VH1. I wasn't the hugest of fans of their music, but I liked them well enough. The whole thing with Dime, problems with Phil ... very unfortunate, I always shake my head at how some great bands have such loyal fans but just cannot go on because of personality stuff ... and now death. And on an unrelated note, seems like rumors are flying that SOAD may be headed for breakupsville, too. I guess this is all par for the course in the world of rock
One night, I also saw the S-Te//ers on P-e-a-r-l J-a-m ... in my op, it didn't really add to my understanding of the band or its songs too much. If I were to sum it up, it had a very political bent (which I agree with); however, like I said didn't add too much to the overall program ... oh, and you learn that Alive is about Ed V. All of which added together doesn't really make me want to re-embrace a band that I really dug for two albums ... although I did give them a chance to win me over, when I watched the program. end of babble.
Apparently throat probs have relieved Steve 2 from the JRNY tour (curious to see if he will go the way of Tim-O and JP) ... the fill-in is the, to me, very serviceable JSS ... who I best remember as the vox on the first two Yngwie solo albums and of course, playing some shows with the remaining members of Q-u-e-e-n in the past
Here is an interesting snip of JSS doing an A-T JRNY classic
In a similar vein, there must be something about D/L festival ... last year, the stand-in drummers for Met as LU goes down with an ailment, this year K-o-r-n gets various vox to stand in for JD due to a blood ailment. WEIRD
I read that Mr. Sweet (vox for S-t-r-y-p-e-r) will be releasing a new solo album next month ... and of course, the much anticipated album from M-a-i-d-e-n will be out in September, with a single coming out soon. And, just in case you were planning to file them away in the 1HW category, new album is done for E-v-a-n-e-s-c-e-n-c-e, due in Oct, new song supposedly due the first week of Aug
And of course, T-o-o-l tix on sale this Sat for Fri and Sat shows in August at the concert hall ... and if rumors are true, the equally enigmatic M-e-s-h-u-g-g-a-h will open
RIP June
Excerpt from White Ashes from Rennyo's Letters (trans. by Hisao Inagaki et al)
When I deeply contemplate the transient nature of human life,
I realize that, from beginning to end, life is impermanent like an illusion.
We have not yet heard of anyone who lived ten thousand years.
How fleeting is a lifetime!
Who in this world today can maintain a human form for even a hundred years?
There is no knowing whether I will die first or others,
whether death will occur today or tomorrow.
We depart one after another more quickly than the dewdrops on
the roots or the tips of the blades of grasses. So it is said.
Hence, we may have radiant faces in the morning,
but by evening we may turn into white ashes.
Once the winds of impermanence have blown,
our eyes are instantly closed and our breath stops forever.
Then, our radiant face changes its color, and the
attractive countenance like peach and plum blossoms is lost.
Family and relatives will gather and grieve, but all to no avail?
Since there is nothing else that can be done, they carry the deceased out to the
fields, and then what is left after the body has been cremated and has turned
into the midnight smoke is just white ashes.
Words fail to describe the sadness of it all.
Thus the ephemeral nature of human existence is such that death comes to young
and old alike without discrimination. So we should all quickly take to heart the
matter of the greatest importance of the afterlife ....
June 29, 2006
We Get To Carry Each Other
I am a member of ONE, the campaign to make poverty history.
One year ago, America and the world's richest countries, the "G8", made historic promises on debt, aid and trade for Africa and the world's poorest countries. On July 15th, 2006, the G8 meets again in Russia. It is very important that America's life-saving G8 commitments are kept, both at this year's G8 and back at home where it's up to Congress to keep those promises.
The ONE campaign put together a petition asking Congress and the President to keep the promises America made a year ago. If you feel like making a difference with these important issues, you can sign the petition, too.
Click here or paste the following URL in your browser:
http://action.one.org/live8.jsp
Thanks.
June 27, 2006
Will they show up?
I think that if everything shook out the way that it should have -- this could have been one of the biggest years for live entertainment here in a great, great while. What once seemed like a hip-hop/RnB no show thing for us has now blossomed into a universal thing, and this year though very promising for rumors and announcements has been dampened by what have been too frequent cancellations and postponements for no transparent reason
Add to the upcoming (aka we'll believe it when we are in the seats and the lights go down) list of performances: Michael B., B-E-P, and for two shows at the concert hall in August, T-o-o-l (Tix on sale NEXT SAT) ...
(note: is it only me that finds this show at the concert hall to be a weird match? *shrug*)
Which brings us back to the eternal question ....
June 25, 2006
Soon you could have a B-R player, too
I have so much fatigue about the next great thing in home A-V tech ... I guess you can imagine my dismay when I saw the plasterings of the err umm, next level in greed ... oh, I mean home ent. player units for sale at your local electronics box store ...
This article pretty much covers how I feel about it
June 24, 2006
Took me a while ...
But, I finally got around to watching the NBC News Special of Bono in Africa. It was a really well made piece, makes you think, and makes you realize the world is smaller than you think
Great piece (even if the NBC correspondent's body language indicates he is either really uncomfortable ... or even better, he couldn't give a F-F), see it here for free ... requires iTs.
June 21, 2006
Now this is surprising
You know, I found myself actually digging this video ... even though the audio sounds like harmonic farting.
The Halen Bros. and Mr. Ex-Zelwhatever
Some observations:
1. The worst high-5 I've ever seen in my life ... someone may be drinking again
2. Perhaps the most energetic performance out of the enigma in about hmmmm, close to 15 years
3. It looked like a happy performance, so unlike some that I saw in the 04 Sam Halen shows ... ironic, maybe he shouldn't do it for the $$$
4. The whole do the modern-Santana album idea is really not that far off at all ... it has more legs than we realized
June 20, 2006
Return of the timewaster
It would be really funny as a satire ... sometimes truth is stranger than fiction
June 19, 2006
Out of touch with reality
Going the wrong way ... really fast. That's kind of how I felt looking at the impact of the fed budget on the land of 5-Oh
Are federal deficits really irrelevant? ... I guess we'll find out. The new national budget will add $300 billion to the deficit.
Is the war free (or perhaps low-cost somehow)? The budget lacks assumptions about the cost of the war in Iraq beyond 2007, leaving costs to be addressed by "supplemental appropriations" which masks the fiscal impact of the war on the U.S. national debt.
In other words, it's like you have a big credit card debt ... but once a year, your parent gives you a huge chunk of money, that you couldn't possibly pay out of your current salary ... and you use it to pay your debt down ... the impact of your full debt (or even better of your actions) seems less because you got money on the side
Other impacts on Hawaii:
- If the El Busho tax cuts are made permanent, Hawaii's wealthiest 1% would each get $9,684 in tax breaks, while middle income families get $54 ... what are you doing with your one tank of gas?
- Social Security privatization and cuts for current Social Security death benefits;
- $22 million less for children with disabilities in Hawaii than was promised for the program;
- Funding cuts of $1.5 million for Clean Water loan funds which help improve wastewater treatment -- less money, more doodoo at the beach?
- $2.1 million in cuts for Hawaii Social Services Block Grant funding, which helps disadvantaged people in Hawaii achieve self sufficiency;
- Eliminated almost $14 million for job training and employment services in Hawaii; and
- Eliminated almost $6 million in vocational education funding in Hawaii.
Global warming can't happen soon enough ... at this rate
June 12, 2006
Lazy Day Timewaster
Now here is a cribs that I would be interested in ... :D
June 9, 2006
B-B-C Fan
No, not of that broadcasting station across the pond
KCRW has a new podcast on iTs that actually is a music file called "Today's Top Tune" ... yesterday's top tune was clipped from Brandi Carlile's live performance on MBE ... "Throw it all away", nicely produced ... what an awesome voice
June 8, 2006
Once were Halen
Actually a pretty cool clip from the docu that recently aired on vee-aitch-one
Here.
Stuff like this makes me shake my head at two things:
1. Man, the 80s were wild and big in so many ways
2. That it is so very remote that V-H will ever play together again ... in any form
June 7, 2006
The Fifth Beatle
R.I.P. Billy Preston
The creative force behind "You are so beautiful to me", "With You I'm Born Again", and great keyboards and background vox on countless albums of the greatest artists
http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1533724/20060606/preston_billy.jhtml?headlines=true
New Met
Well, as usual, some sneakymetallifans have captured Met playing a new song live
Links are here.
Very much a rough draft, kinda loses focus in some parts ... but I like the riff, like the solo, like the fact that it isn't ponderous, garagey, repetitive, like stuff off StA -- it has potential, haven't said that about new Met stuff in a while
June 6, 2006
Only now someone figures this out
Another sign that the apocalypse will be caused by err ummm ... I NO KEA rather than any anti-Christ with a snooty brit or elitey eastern accent
That's the story about everything in our nation ... not only is the economy trickle down takes a while for people to figure things out, like non-essential, non-Idol, non-gas prices, non-gay marriage things like the war is wrong, the administration is extremely incompetent and corrupt, that hmmm ... I think there's at least a shred of evidence, we tortured people at A.G ... Guantos ... and have killed no, not only 24 at H-city, but in the several tens or hundreds of thousands of civilians in this war on this conceptual term known as "Terror"
And you know what else irks me, how many critical new stories and their proponents are viewed as kooks, extremists, fringey, etc. ... you know what else is just freaking brilliant, how conservos and R-Wers ... and for that matter, just your average joe and jill cellphone just dismiss all this questioning and blindly follow
Add another thing to the list ... it's not like NO ONE said anything at the time, I believe the counting of electoral votes was stopped BUT then quashed by a vote of the House 267-31 and by the Senate 74-1... well no one who wasn't flakey, kooky, left wing, sour grapes, etc. SHEESH.... (on a side note, does it not bother anyone that 140 House members and 25 Senate members did not vote on this? -- must not be important, the democratic aspects of this republic)
Read it here.
The implications are very scary to me ....
Odds and Ends on Doomsday
For all my metalhead friends, have a happy National Day of Slayer ... and big party in Hell today, apparently
In other musical notes, I continue to be amazed by the MBE podcs of Brandi Carlile ... wow, that is one hell of an acoustic performance, can't stop listening to it over and over. Her acoustic version of Tragedy is incredibly good.
But back to doomsday, for a moment ... read here again about how the number is probably 616, but then there are numerous examples of superstitions and curiosities regarding the number of a man ... six hundred six score and six
Okay, so you read how scholars think Rev. 13 is actually calculated to 616 ... see here how this ties in with Barry Bonds ... kinda making sense now, no? HAHAHA
On a totally geeky note, 6 is the first of the perfect numbers. What is a perfect number, you ask? It's a number that is the sum of its factors. So, 1+2+3=6 ... and 6, of course, is divisible by 1, 2, 3. For the ultra pointy heads, another example would be 28. Doing the math again ... 1+2+4+7+14=28 ... and divide on your own -- plenty of fun for the life-less
June 5, 2006
Just what I was thinking about
I was thinking that in general, I'm not really an early adopter when it comes to electronics. I have had about a handful of bad experiences with various new tinker toys of (almost ... not) brilliance.
So, as I contemplated buying some new electronics lately, I was a bit gun-shy about buying some "older" technology -- what with all the new formats and (potential) standards on the horizon. I was just irked that every time a new format, a new standard, a new this and a new that come out ... eventually we all have the buy the same crap over again -- and if you're like me, you're a bit tired of buying something on vinyl, cassette, cd ... dvd-a (don't think so) -- or vhs, dvd, hd-dvd (I mean, are these guys serious?!?!?!?!) -- don't get me started with vidgame consoles (I think my days of buying them are officially over)
I think I'll be the fool on the hill about this, and wait out the bloodbath ...
Read the article here.
I guess, my feeling is similar with the upshot of the article ... sure, it's better but why should I buy it
June 4, 2006
Good Satire
Don't get wound up about race .... err, I mean, immigration.
Great satire, here.
May 31, 2006
If you missed a buncha important TV last week
Here's some recaps for you ... with a side of satire
May 29, 2006
New Yacht Rock
Skewering another icon of my formative years ... after a one month hiatus
May 22, 2006
Catching up
With my ever stacking music podcast subs on iT. After plowing through quite a few ... I have three artists to recommend
From the Morning Becomes Eclectic podcasts, Josh Rouse and Bitter:Sweet.
Josh Rouse has this great album called Subtitlo out, just great laid back, acousti-pop
B:S is a collab of one of the members of SBL and a great F vocalist by the name of Shana, that sounds a lot like SBL, PortisH, Morch, etc., very varied -- the constant is the sultry female vox, that we would expect from these bands.
From the WOXY Lounge-casts, Mason Proper. Really great indie pop rocks ... unfortunately only available right now at CdBaby ... with a few tracks available to d/l off their site and their mysp. But, I know that my readers are familiar with the service, so go check out the podcast ... and buy if you are so moved
May 17, 2006
Ask the economist
Heh ... that's what they are for
Stacking up the gaming consoles over time comparing prices
Here
I suppose, the upshot about this is not that current console prices historically are not out of whack, but that less people find that they are unwilling to dedicate that good chunk of "disposable income" for them
May 16, 2006
What nose cone?
Okay, so as we know the big news of the day is the finally released tape of the D-O-D building being struck
This clip is hilarious because there is a guy insisting he can see the nose cone ... I must totally be blind, check it here... maybe if you believe in something hard enough, you become suggestible ... and see things as they aren't
Here's the full clips from the watchdog group that made the fo-ya in the first place. I don't think this proves to anyone that things happened the way we were told they happened -- it doesn't make the alternative explanation for it credible either
(Oh and for those of you not familiar with the popular alt explanation, go here ... takes about 80 minutes)
At the end of the day, we've seen it before ... now with white blur.
May 13, 2006
4 D Geeq N U
Found this late last week, a bit too busy to play with it for a long time ... it is great if you, like me, were into those Don Bluth coin-op laserdisc vgs like Space Ace, Dragon's Lair, Cobra Command ... or Cliff Hanger (better known as the game based on the Jpnse Lupin series)
Check it out here.
May 6, 2006
National Comic Book Day
Well, as you all know, today is NCBD ... or what some cynical people call Free CBD, because you can get a free comic from participating comic book sellers
I've found a cool, unrealized feature on the Marvel site ... now it is much better than what it was before, free digital comics, some all-time classics, some new ... and of course, you can't complain with the great price of Free-99
Check it out here.
April 30, 2006
From the Henry show
I'm not really one for talk shows ... but Rollins new show on IFC is pretty cool to watch.
This is the interview he did with the legendary vox of the Sabbs
April 28, 2006
Matters of Taste
Today the work crew went to R's at Koolina to belatedly celebrate AdPro Day ... which if I recall correctly was Wed. R's is located in the old open air clubhouse area at the golf course. This was my, I think, third time to R's ... the other times I went to the HKai location.
April 26, 2006
Heavy goodness
In case, you haven't found out yet ... and like that earlyish Sabb and Zep sound of heavy guitar and banshee vox -- classic heavy rock, there is a free single this week on iTMS from Wolfmother. Been listening to them for a little bit now, we really like the sound of this band, glad to see them get some rub from iTs
April 13, 2006
To Sun or Not to Sun, Part 2
In the second of my tidbits about sensational stories of recent vintage, I found this article about the Columbine shootings to be quite interesting.
Basically, this is an article about the ongoing efforts to suppress "in the public interest" certain portions of evidence from the public related to the planning of the massacre ... read about it here.
Again, the eternal question is: is the public served better by knowing, OR should the public retain their only their horrified, initial impressions about the matter ... even if there are additional things that could be known if "released into the sunshine"
Do we as the public have a right to know these things?
April 12, 2006
To Sun or Not to Sun, Part 1
So in following with our controversial rainy day time waster, I began to think about what is it that we have a right to as the public in terms of information about recent sensational events.
Do we deserve full disclosure ... an airing of all information, no matter how controversial, into the sunshine -- so that we can learn un-MEDIA-ted information about events. In other words, have the information for ourselves to learn about it, without having some government or news group filter, cut, and choose what is important for us to know about
April 11, 2006
Double U -- Tee -- Eff, Mates?!?!?!?
As an initial note on current events, I must say this:
Why ever would Kween allow their music to be performed to ... on a show that is SO TERRIBLY AND 360 DEGREES OPPOSITE to what Kween was about ... has me dumbfounded and at a loss for words
April 9, 2006
Haven't been paying attention
Well, two weeks ago today, there was a new episode from the boys that destroy dubious icons from my formative years, one icon at a time
Of course I mean NEW YACHT ROCK!!
April 8, 2006
I want to believe
Okay, so if you didn't know ... goejijoose is the latest, greatest M-L-M piece of crap that supposedly can make you money ... but at the end of the day, will part you and your foolish ass of money ... Which brings us the, "will he ever change" person of the day
Not that I'm the smoekingunn or something, but this really reminds me of that song in the South Park movie where they have Saddam dancing around and singing "I Can Change" -- here
---
What I don't like about M-L-M's is that they prey on some of people's worst character flaws -- love of money/greed; exploitation of other's efforts/all the money, none of the effort; exploitation of another person's trust, etc. You know why many of them peter out, often causing people to go to jail in the end, it's a scam -- pure and simple.
April 7, 2006
Slow death
So, if you are like me and listen fairly regularly to the D-L-R morning show ... well, maybe you have noticed that it has had the steam taken right out of it, basically due to the "reorganization" of personalities on the show. There isn't really much to say when Dave spends a segment playing old V-H songs himself and singing to them
I can recall more than a few times in my "paying attention" (nah, not really ...) of local radio station programs, that this happens quite frequently ... where a show goes on for a bit, someone gets the great idea to subtract personalities or add other personalities ... and that ends up being the kiss of death
I'm not saying that the D-L-R morning show has been the best morning show ever ... there were many gaffes and missteps along the way, but it had ... yes HAD, that live performance feel to it ... that anything could happen, even big time goofs and awkward moments. The tragic thing is that sometimes, there was magic there, too. I really prefer it to the over-produced morning show stuff that you can get basically anywhere in the 50, including here.
Ah, well, life support has begun ... pay your respects while you have the time
Because it looks like sooner than later, it is going the way of the dinos
April 6, 2006
Don't be
Another go along with the crowd, gas cap hating person
But really ... I would like to know exactly WTF happened that caused the gas prices to go up to post-Katrina levels in the past month or so. C-B-S news has suggested that along with supply fears due to turmoil in oil producing countries ... oh so now, It's the gas futures speculators! They allegedly add 1/3 to the price of a barrel of crude, due to options and forwards on the future price of gasoline going into the "american driving season" and the "heating season" later in the year
Okay, so all that being said, coupled with the recent reports that hybrids "financially do not pay off" for the additional dollars on their sticker price, over the useful life of the car. I have this very simple observation.
It really all does not matter, when everyone grumbles about it ... BUT STILL BUYS IT / THEMS VEHICLES / LARGELY IS IN ECONOMIC TERMS "INDIFFERENT" TO HIGH PRICING. Car owner and buyer behavior has not changed -- and foreseeably will not change because people are still commuting in their full size trucks, suvs, neo-oversized American sedans -- recent public mass transit projects are NOT paying off as intended (see, monorail in LV, among other examples) ... as far as I can tell
Gas prices, caps, etc ... really now ... IS NOT NEWS, nor are jackasses with large vehicles grumbling at the pump during candid interviews. If the news purpose was, what makes Americans think that owning a large vehicle with high gas prices economically add up? --- you know, I would actually watch that news story
Moreover, if people actually started to care about what this all means, that would be news
April 5, 2006
Do cities go away
Not to get overly Seinfeld-ish, but it has occurred to me with the green light for the centennial festival this weekend after being postponed last weekend .... do certain cities just not make it?
I mean, are there some cities where they go ... gee man, we tried it for like three years and man, I think we should dissolve the city. Everyone scatter to the various ends of the earth from whence you came -- we're so sorry, we apologize for the inconvenience but this city will end by the end of the year
Is 100 years a big thing? And why is the city putting on this celebration, anyways. Here's what my superficial attempt at research suggests:
1. The city's own website says that no one really knows when Honolulu was founded ... okay, so this 100 year thing is related to some other date.
2. Did you know that the original county was the County of Oahu, as of July 1, 1905? That's not 100 years
3. Did you know that two years after the County of Oahu ... by my math, 1907, became the City and County of Honolulu?
Okay, so all of this info is on the city's own website. Is the city counting it Japanese style? Should we be superstitious about celebrating a 100th when it looks like the city is only 99
I don't demand answers about this ... I'm just saying
April 2, 2006
Matters of Taste
It certainly may not be often that this column is dragged out again. However, from time to time, when SD and I go to eat somewhere new ... you'll read about it ... (that is, if I remember to write about it ... ehh). And yes, certainly there are other local food blogs that go wayyy more in depth about places here than we will ever go ... so you know where to find those
March 26, 2006
Rainy day entertainment
March 22, 2006
World Water Day
In 1992, the UN General Assembly designated March 22 as “World Water Day” to draw international attention to the critical lack of clean, safe drinking water worldwide. It is a time when we are encouraged to pause and consider the largest public health issue of our time – the global scarcity of clean water.
Despite the apparent abundance of clean water in the US and most of the developed world, more than 1 billion people world wide – 20% of the planet’s entire human population – lack access to clean, safe drinking water. According to the UN, this world water crisis leads to the death of more than 4,500 children every day and is a leading cause of poverty, disease, and social instability world wide.
This world water crisis isn’t confined to one particular region of the planet, though the crisis is most severe in developing nations and particularly acute in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Poverty, health, education, and economic growth all are impacted by the lack of clean water and sanitation in these communities, creating a perpetual struggle for basic survival.
(Source: World Water Day 2006)
March 21, 2006
So anyway, on the V-H front
Every so once in a very great while, I go check out the news sites to see if there is any information on the defunct band with the initials, V-H
Soooo ... after the RockStar rumors came and went away ... D-L-R got his own radio show and "mirrored" (an El Busho presidency term ... for not saying what you mean, but people will catch on ... then you can deny it later) on a few occasions for a reunion ... S-H keeps playing V-H tunes like they were his on any given night of the week
March 20, 2006
Every so often ...
Our fearless leader El Busho makes a claim so preposterous that even I can't let it go ... despite the fact that I think he and his administration are setting a "never to be broken again" pace of administrative incompetence and flat-out lying.
So the quote from our fearless leader today:
" First-just if I might correct a misperception, I don't think we ever said, at least I know I didn't say that there was a direct connection between September 11th and Saddam Hussein. "
Yeah, WE GOT IT WRONG, NOT YOU .... of course
Seriously, who the $@#! does he think he's kidding? The most offensive thing about this is how this administration thinks that we are just stupid.
Taiko Festival
Well, SD and I went to the taiko festival yesterday afternoon ... surprisingly, the rain had stopped already because as you may know, usually taiko brings rain (but that's another story)
I didn't really have any preconceptions going in, and for the most part, I found it to be fairly entertaining. I think we both agreed that the youth group performance was a bit more entertaining -- just because it was more dynamic, contemporary, and high energy
When the masters did their thing, it was kind of like taiko jazz ... and that was okay, too. There were some points that reminded me of noisescapes on classic rock albums like DSoTM. But all in all, it was a pretty cool thing to watch.
March 19, 2006
Rain without end
I was thinking today ... when was the last time we pretty much had rain for an entire month. I actually find myself checking the weather more because of it.
Anyway, here is a great weather page with all sorts of imaging by Edward Dung.
In the meantime, Oahu gets pounded by thunderstorms this morning ... ehhh
March 14, 2006
I must have become insane recently ...
And not noticed.
How is it that we can continue to grow here? Why is it that I feel no confidence in using theory du jour, "growth management strategies"?
March 8, 2006
No U2
Another major show doesn't quite make it out here
Our best to the member of U2 whose family member is ill
March 7, 2006
Because radio ain't "free"
This may show how much I am actually paying attention, but I noticed WOXY has now gone to a listener supported model paid through BPass ... not unlike KNAC has had in place for quite a while now. I guess with KNAC it seems a litle less obvious that they are pushing a subscription on you. But in any case, with both, you can still listen for free at 24k which is quite generous of them ... and can also be used for indecisive mooching, I suppose
March 6, 2006
Who do you want to parody today?
Parody of if MSlop marketed the iP here
March 3, 2006
I'm gonna tell
Well, I think most of you know that ... I, being a highly lazy peep, like to watch Countdown on MSlopNBC. Basically because it is a shorthand of most of the pertinent national news of the day ... ANDDDD it has no obvious political slant
Just when life couldn't become more bizarre, the nation's favorite pundit will turn your name over to bushy tail network security if you say KO's name ... damnnn, the collective intelligence of the world just dropped by negative IQ points
If you're curious, it's here ... be warned though, it requires MSlop Exploder, that alone should have precluded me, but I couldn't resist ... here
February 21, 2006
Full On Monsuun
Well, I should have known by today's weather at Kapolei ... the normally dry and windy place looked like it was enveloped by London fog early this afternoon and sheets and sheets of rain came down
Now, it's early evening and man, it is pouring something fierce ... and the lightning and thunder are lighting up the sky and shaking the jalousies. I guess, it's time to spin some Go Team and do some email ... hopefully the power doesn't get tripped
February 20, 2006
Big drops is falling from the sky
I got a new Gillette Fusion razor in the mail last week ... like manna from heaven or something. Totally unsolicited, here comes a FIVE blade shaver with top razor for tough spots on your face. After struggling with the Quattro for the past two weeks, let's just say its nice to get back on the G-razor bandwagon ...
February 3, 2006
Quickly saying nada
(Afternoon update: Looking like this will be another JB classic.)
Well, don't you feel good that finally we have nearly official confirmation that .... a) no Stones show here in April ... and b) no second U2 show. Because our life was so taken with the obsession over these things happening ... I think if anything, all it shows is that the RS have good business peeps looking out for them. I mean, why play a town that is broke from being concerted out in a one month period ... especially when you charge RS prices, hey people didn't exactly dig U2 prices for the heaven seats in the Homage to Rust. So everyone get ready for JJ and the KFest ... too bad I'm not going, oh my heart is breaking .... NOTT
February 1, 2006
BSL (Slight Return)
Haven't really been doing much other than the daily routine. The music pods that I have really liked in the past few days were the latest KCRW MBE pod of Blake of Rilo's side project, The Elected ... and after being into the Sundayrunners awhile back, nice to hear great new stuff on the WOXY The Lounge pod -- only three tracks, but really like the direction (even better than the tracks on their current album).
I've been picking off a few obscure tracks here and there, including a fairly good but odd cover by The Method and Result of H&O's Private Eyes ... another great cover that is slightly older is Kathryn Williams cover of Pavement's Spit on a Stranger ... and Margot & The Nuclear So and So's Dress Me Like a Clown. All I feel about my latest foray into finding music is that ... man, there is so much out there, but when you find something you like, it's worth it
The other thing I noticed ... is that while listening greedily to the DLR morning show, the guy struggles in some interviews with getting into a good flow and asking good questions. When it's just his stage, it's fine ... and Animal is hilarious, reminds me of a real life version of Tim M's Ladies Man
(afternoon update: Bono gave the keynote today at the National Prayer Breakfast, an interesting read if you go here.)
January 27, 2006
Just Shut Up
The title comes from perhaps one of the lamest stage names in entertainment ... and for some of us, we know it as a response to a dorky BBS poster who thought that the original stage name we just talked about was very cool
I don't know why it bothers me so much ... but here is my rant of the day. As you may or may not know, things like broadcast media belong to the public ... or in wing commander: all your air are belong to us
January 26, 2006
Briefly Shortly Little
Before I forget, for all you iTs MBE pod subscribers, there is a great session from buzzworthy Irish band, Guggenheim Grotto. Not knowing anything about them prior to listening, I must say it was a nice listen, very accessible. Also, a MBE session from UK breakthrough band, Arctic Monkeys, my first time to get a full taste of the AMs (not bad, at some points a little to hectic for my tastes, but some of their breaks and bridges are excellent).
I don't think I wrote about it but the WOXY Lounge pod featuring The Teenage Prayers ... that was good, too ... their cd is only available on cdBaby, btw. The other WOXY Lounge pod that I thought was really awesome was the one by Benzos.
January 23, 2006
Eighty One: Modern Day Anakin
Like killing the younglings at the Jedi Temple
Mamba
81
YAWWWWWNNNNNN ... the Laker boycott continues
(Oh, it gets better all the time, I forgot to mention it was in his 666th career game ... Coincidence? The gods must be crazy)
January 22, 2006
Believe.
(Image courtesy: AP)
January 19, 2006
It never ends
I have a feeling that someday we will all just die of flu, slowly. This year's flu is still not washed out of me, and this is now day 9 of slowly weakening symptoms.
January 18, 2006
3F
I had heard of this concept in a different context ... but I think that it seemed interesting to me to talk about the differences between fanatics, followers, and fair weathers
January 11, 2006
Been Around the Block Enough to Know
A somewhat enigmatic title, I know ... but like, there are some points in your life where you say, I know how this will shake out, so I don't need to pay some expert to tell me something ... well something they have told me a number of times before
So, as the new year's variety of flu strikes me ... I don't need to be put on hold at the doctor, to talk to a nurse, who will ask me questions, tell me to rest and drink plenty o'fluids, take some suda and tyle, and then be told okay, if you get worse, call us
Why would I? Same stuff, different year ... someone wake me when we discover the cure for the common cold
January 10, 2006
Study in contrasts
First, we have the show that no one knows about other than Steve M. Band will play ... that is the renewal of the D-Head Crater festival on ... perhaps the most ironic of days, April Fools. With so little info at this point, you have to wonder if this show will go off or not
One week later, those four guys that still haven't found what they're looking for will play here at the Homage to Rust ... and it seems like everyone and their brother abroad knows more about this than local people here. I fear one thing, and that is that local people AGAIN will get the short end of the stick and ultimately a great number will be shut out from the show ... not because of high prices but because of so many dikfors messing with the ticket pool and placing even fan club presale tix on eBay already, and so many people from here and yon need to GREEDILY see the band, 30 times on this tour
January 9, 2006
Land of Luxury
You know, I was in for an eye opening experience today as I was checking out some preliminary info on that band led by Paul Hewson at the Homage to Rust.
Well, can't say that it's about ticket prices ... I mean, expensive tickets to see top acts are not really that surprising to me
What was surprising was ETS, which also does these personalized once in a lifetime type trips to see the mega-acts like the Stones, and of course, that second band from Dublin after Thin Lizzy
Well, for two people, NO FLIGHT, four days in the Waiks, a "loo-ow" on Friday with the trib band the UnforgFire, a ride in a van to the show and back, and 2 seats in premium reserved ... came out to a lovely suggested price of $2118.00
It almost makes me stunned that our #1 industry is tourism because that is like full-on unconscionable pricing ... and I don't think that's really out of line for a "Owhyhee-ian" vacation.
DAMN! What would happen without tourism here ... I shudder to think
January 6, 2006
Power of Observation
I suppose I should say something about Bill O. on Letterman a couple of nights ago ... well, I was going to and then I couldn't find a suitable link that wasn't some pinhead spouting off garbage either way about who was right and who was wrong
Well I found a link and you can judge for yourself rather than have someone distort you into compliance. Yes, using your mind is good
January 3, 2006
By the way...
December 31, 2005
Big Dumb Noise (Quest for Fire)
The late hours of 2005 are not so far from Quest for Fire
I made fire
I made lot of noise
I cheer after noise
There's nothing about doing it on such a massive scale
that has anything to do with good luck ... apart from its
potential for harm, this "tradition" is just dumb
The Year In Review: Music
In many ways, this was an interesting year in music. Although the distinction had faded over the years with the rise of Nirvana, Pearl Jam, etc. in the mid-90s bringing the alternative to the mainstream, this year again it seems that there is music for the masses and indie music
This year probably made the death of big music as we know it inevitable ... but that aside
December 30, 2005
The Year In Review: Tube ... (on DVD)
I cannot remember the last time that I watched something with regularity on TV. If I were to think really hard about it, it may have been NipTuck last year ... and of course, I still watch new SouthParks even though that it pretty hit and miss lately
What we have been doing over the past couple of years is watching a ton of TV on DVD. So here's TV ... err, on DVD for the year from our perspective.
December 29, 2005
Just over the horizon
As I drove up to my house yesterday afternoon, I saw something that really bothered me. Why it did bother me, I'm not really sure ... I guess I just had a feeling of impending doom.
December 26, 2005
It's That Time of Year Again
As I was cleaning up the cars for mochi this week ...
I saw my neighbors starting to throw firecrackers into the street ... now, I must be some kind of wet blanket because I do not know what compels people to need to light SINGLE firecrackers ... 5 days before the big annual nee-Beirut blast
You go buy them today, then all of a sudden ... gee, I FEEL AN URGE to play them ... one by one ... and have 4932 left over for Saturday
I really don't get it ... at all
December 25, 2005
Merry Christmas
War is over if you want it
The world is better for JC being born
I'm not sure 25 years later the world is better with JLen dead
December 24, 2005
The Year In Review: Movies on DVD
I was surprised to see how many DVD movies we watched this year ... and not surprisingly a great deal of them were not really worth seeing in the theatre
So without further preliminary comments and ado
December 22, 2005
Three days ... so who's counting
You know it's a slow news day when one of the news items is ... U2 in negotiations with the Stadium, yes the gang that can't shoot straight about field turf, alcohol sales ... and still wants to repair the Homage to Rust ... but that's beside the point, the news was that negotiations were going well for a two show stand April 8th and 9th ... and if I remember correctly this will be the first time since they played here with Oingo Boingo in '82 at the NBC during the "October" tour
December 21, 2005
The Year in Review: Concerts
Ironically, we didn't see too many shows this year ... though it was a pretty busy show year overall for the town ... what with the nosties coming in full force, the Eagles, Jrny, Crue
I've never really thought about what that would be, I think we only went to two shows total this year. In hindsight, I haven't changed my opinion about the Norah show ... it was okay, solid, and eerily reminiscent of listening to her CDs ... it wasn't an adventure in improvisation, I think it would be foolish to have thought it would be
The show of the year (out of two LOL) was the Jason Mraz show ... and the more I think about it, the more I become irritated about how much time was spent by others on the bill. Definitely one of the better shows that I have seen in recent memory
November 24, 2005
Happy Thanksgiving
Hoping everyone has a happy thanksgiving
I have much to be thankful for and am very blessed to have a wonderful family, friends, a loving gf, and great place to work everyday
Thanks also to janitor for the update ... which enabled the new cleaner look
November 23, 2005
Difficult does not mean easy
Lately I have been reassessing the whole enterprise of being a cultural critic ... needless to say, I am the last person that should be considered one ... really now
I don't understand how it is that lately I've noticed that in general people who do criticism on their blogs are almost universally so entirely negative or positive that it makes you wonder what really is the value of having your opinion published on this vast expanse of anonymity known as the Internet
What is their contribution, if anything ....?
November 22, 2005
Eternally Ruined
I was thinking today that there are two songs that have been permanently damaged and unlistenable due to overexposure through karaoke ... these are loveshack and eternal flame
I am listening to some virgin uk this morning and here comes LS and ... I'm like damn, I really dislike that song
Have I ever written about the bangles wonderful contribution to k-parties involving local Js ... I mean, what would you, the avg. local J woman possibly sing without LS and EF ... yeah I thought so, so now you know ... bellbivdevoe
November 21, 2005
I guess not
The answer to the question of does MLB get it about associating itself with music stars as a method of cross promotion
I suppose this is a knee jerk reaction to how some perceive that the NBA went too far in associating itself with hip hop ... but I mean, what does baseball know about music, and since when is music really and truly associated with baseball
But if there is any among you that are curious, you can see two live tracks from the former lead singer of Alter Bridge ... err, I mean, Creed on MLB.com (and there is also streams for songs from his upcoming solo album ... who knew??? I wasn't paying attention)
What did I think of the music ... I must say, if there is a category for ho hum music, this stuff has it cornered, captured, beat down, and bought up. You listen to it and go, you know, there's quite a bit of dynamism but it just doesn't excite you ... you just go, okayyy
November 19, 2005
Cool find
I found out today that order on the Big I and pickup is actually a pretty good thing for some premium items that cost a buttload to ship
I'm a big fan of royalpurple oil for my car ... and usually you have to pay the shipping markup for local retailers here, which makes it like almost $100 a case ... well, using online and pickup with checker, it's only 60 something bucks ... that is a revelation, and the oil is just super in terms of maintaining viscosity and not turning dirty too fast
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Oh and congratulations to the UH hoopsters... they really blasted the crap out of the #4 team in the country today, 84-62
November 17, 2005
Non-stuff non-works
As recent circumstances have me involuntarily burning the candle at both ends, I have felt rather sluggish and fatigued ... or basically in need of an energy boost.
For some reason, we had that new energy elixir at home, the one that is non-caf, non-ephed ... largely vitamin based, and from its claims is good for five hours of energy
It's funny because it says that you can feel the rush almost immediately ... well, it is now three hours later, and no rush ... I think my body clock just needed to wake up, and that's why I feel reasonably up right now ... so on the issue of does it work, no I don't think it does
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In other news, I just noticed today that Amaz now discloses whether cds are content copy protected or not ... more info to the consumer is always good
And just when I was gonna break down and get that ImogenHeap cd, oh well, off to iTs I go
November 15, 2005
Who does it belong to?
I read a pretty sad editorial about how this person believed that the HI they grew up in no longer exists ... and this person was leaving, moving away to the continguous
It made me wonder about who exactly does this place belong to
November 8, 2005
While I was away
Made me think of those While You Were Away office notepads that you are supposed to write people messages on
October 27, 2005
I was thinking
Big news, huh?
No, I had to take a break this morning for the cleaning of my office ... so I got to thinking about why things stop
Earlier I was listening to Colin Hay (ex of MAtW) and the song that was on the GS soundtrack ... and yes, it's from 98, and yes I think the guy is now some comedian or something
But man, that song is great ... and MAtW, no matter what I may think of the cheese factor, had some really great songs over a two album period ... and then disappeared into the haze about 20 some odd years ago
What's my point? Make more music, mate
October 26, 2005
How Many More?
American Soldiers Dead: 2001
American Soldiers Wounded: 15220 (15000-42500)
oh and by the way ... since these lives are apparently not important to our media
Iraqi Civilians Dead: estimated between 26700-30800 (as high as 100,000)
October 25, 2005
Don't Stop Hidin'
I had heard that the White Sox were playing Journey's Don't Stop Believin' lately ... well, I suppose you would need an anthem too if you hadn't won a World Series since 1917
What I did not expect was to see Steve Perry in the crowd at the game ... yes THAT STEVE PERRY ... he was almost hard to detect with his baseball cap pulled down over his 1981 style long straight hair and ... and still looking as thin as ever ... it struck me that if you became famous, that's a good thing -- and it is what so many want ... then I thought, okay so what happens after you're an icon, you start trying to hide yourself with stuff that couldn't hide your identity in 8 million years ... well, it was cool to see Steve in public, for the first time since the walk of fame day
October 21, 2005
No need to report
Until we have something to report ... still enjoying Arcade Fire, Death Cab for Cutie, I am Kloot, Spinto Band, Ben Folds, Bloc Party, New Order ... and of course, The Killers
Well, life has been going by in a busy blaze of busy work at work, lots of changes in the personal life, and off-and-on crises
Although I do not have any tremendously important to say about anything or to rant on anything ... I am experiencing a Rilo Kiley renaissance, and am just loving the little more than a year old, "More Adventurous" more and more.
Ironically, I never watched their performance on MBE until this morning off KCRW's site, and wow, it is just fantastic. It is just refreshing to see someone know how to write good songs, perform them well, and have a lot of interesting, very easy to get into, sonic variety ... just straightforward, symmetrical, hooky alt pop -- it amazes me that our local Star station only pushed "Portions ..." and not anything else from this great album
October 17, 2005
Now you've done it
I have really seen it all now ... I got this call from one of the credit card companies that I have a card from. A telemarketing call.
And the gist of the schpiel is that they would like ME TO PAY THEM ... wait, let me pause and try that again ... they would LIKE ME TO FKN PAY THEM to monitor my card for a monthly charge for identity theft related activity
UM, hello stupid card issuer ... YOU'RE FKN SUPPOSED TO BE DOING THAT ... this is just enough to make me cut your card into pieces, you fricken pieces of crap --- good God man, how these corporations think we're so stupid
October 15, 2005
Your choices are
I find it highly ironic when people want to pad their community service resumes ... so I got another ballot recently, this time with a ballot for the state retirement system trustee elections
Quite frankly, I would rather the Gov appoint someone ... oh wait, I just couldn't stand for her to Harbinize another flunky to a major position
Anyways, so my choices are ... a social worker, an engineer, and a cop ... to which I say, can we pass until someone with investing experience finally pops up on the ballot ... and all of them seem like the "I am out in the community type"
Well that's all nice and fkn good, but I would like to have some return on my retirement account investments ... and I think a psychic donkey could probably do as well as a "look at me and my 50 extracurricular ... err I mean, mature adult community service activities"
October 6, 2005
A word on ...
Being in a perpetual state of Sheryl Crow
I thought it was very funny today that while I was eating lunch, the custodian's phone rang ... and his phone's ringtone was the quasi-stereo MC Hammer's Can't Touch This
September 29, 2005
Morning Becomes Addictive
So words in advance of a rainy SLASH severe weather weekend ...
My Morning Becomes Eclectic fancy SLASH habit (or more like addiction) is now so easily supported with MBE podcasts on the iTs. So now, no need to go to the website to pull them with the RA (well, the podcs are a small part of the library of performances there
And the joy of it all is, that it comes in easily digestible 40 minute chunks ... so for most performers that's a good 6-8 tracks with blather with Nic H. This week I've seen great editions with Arcade Fire, Death Cab, and Brandi Carlile ... and of course, rewatched the M. Ward session
This morning's edition which I did not wait to be podcs featured Keane (notable to us because we thought it was co-best album of last year) ... they split tracks between stuff from Hopes and new stuff ... I didn't think the new stuff was that great
Well, if I haven't blathered enough about this, it is on via KCRW each morning at about 6-9 our time during DST ... a great source of discovering new music and hearing performances from bands and performers that don't get pub in our hiphop nation
September 27, 2005
More news
Hey let's get some from MTV, while we search the earth for interesting, yet irrelevant news
This one from one of our favorite STILL-rocking bands, the Supersuckers. What would have Gary done with Iraq or response to Katrina? Now, you truly see that this is one of the most pointless and shameless tidbits ever ... a new low for SL
September 22, 2005
All about the Cashish
Initially, I really liked getting mass email from issues based groups and from national leaders ... that was until I started to notice that the issues based email which I used to keep myself current, started changing with more regularity into CAN YOU GIVE US MONEY for this ... CAN YOU GIVE US MONEY for that
If you understand like me that the premise behind most of this is that they would like to raise awareness and MOBILIZE PEOPLE ... that to me, requires ways to persuade people to be active, not persuade people to give more and more
You can have access to my mind, but you can't have my wallet
September 20, 2005
Sad
I think I believe that most nostalgia tours are pretty sad and lame ... and usually bands that had their heydays 15+ years ago, can put their new stuff out there all they like but they are stuck like the late Bob Denver ... always Gilligan
After finding out just now who in excess picked as their replacement for dead Mike ... to record new music ... and tour ... I am like, could you have picked a bigger assclown
Well, not that I was going to buy their new stuff anyways ...
September 18, 2005
Catching up
I hope to do a review this week of Stryper's new one, also get down some words about Help: A Day in the Life, a benefit album for children affected by wars. Help features a number of tracks by today's top alt artists
None for me
I suppose I am one of a tired few that think that the whole reality TV thing is ... well for the sake of word economy -- not for me
As each new iteration comes forth, I think to myself, sheesh what it is about this "reality" TV situation that is even remotely interesting to me, and usually there is not anything there
I don't want to mention programs by name but let's just say I don't hang out on the former music television or the former soft rock music television cousin
September 15, 2005
And I thought that was expensive
Well, consider the silence broken ...
I went to see The Eagles at our local stadium close to ten years ago, and paid $85 bucks for a seat ... it was in the 9th row, and it quite honestly was one of the better stadium shows that I have ever seen
I really and truly am not one to shy away from paying high prices to see my favorite bands ... especially here in paradiso. I mean, how many shows do we get here at all, right?
September 11, 2005
In remembrance of the 2986
August 25, 2005
More Seminars and Comfort Food
Day 2 of the seminar went by really fast ... in the final analysis, I'm not sure I took anything away from it
August 24, 2005
Seminars and Fine Dining
Well today was day one of a conference that I had to attend for training ... and I was surprised that traffic driving into town in the morning today was really ... well, it certainly was there, but it wasn't so bad
August 23, 2005
Out of the loop
Well, I've been pretty out of the loop with what is happening in the louder genres of music
I was really surprised to read about the incident involving Maiden and Mr. Osbournes' crew or whatever
I thought this was the best account that I had read about it, that didn't involve denials or innuendo
It's really unbelievable ... and just sad
August 22, 2005
Observations
A lot of people make a ton of money more than me ... I thought this while I was pumping my precious near three dollar gas
I mean, could I possibly afford a Range Rover with $1000 rims ... and oh, putting in that ever so devil may care, more expensive middle grade of gas into my africansafarimobile ... I mean, perfectly decent five mile per hour freeway vehicle
Yes, at 25, I only wish I were more resourceful ... that being said, I think I am on a personal moratorium/boycott of native issues. I feel so numb after working on them for few years a handful of years back, and actually taking it personal about the cause ... at this point, with all the shenanigans, wake me up when September comes on this issue ... it's a non-starter for me at this point
The last thing I wondered about while driving to tennis ... was during our great governor's radio segment that I was listening to -- I frankly cannot think of anything that they have done in the past near three years except try to PR me to death/and put the shine over on us ... so I open it up to others to tell me what great and wonderful things they have done to deserve another term next year
August 21, 2005
It's been
Many days since I cleaned up my music collection ... and wrote an appropriate journal
Well, I discovered a few things ... one was that I have a metric ton of music files -- the other thing was that I have so much music that I can't really appreciate that I have really good music here to listen to
I've pretty much stopped gathering up new music going on three weeks now ... every once in a while I head over to s-gum to see what they are up to -- and hey, free-99 is always a good price, at least for new music
Up next is the always fun .. put the disk back into order after so much dumping
August 20, 2005
Fun with Incompatibilities
Well, this should be part deux of yesterday's entry
So tonight I decided to do a DW run on my hard drive after last night's great music and other files cleanup. As you may know, this requires a boot from the DW disc as the startup ... okay so after cleaning it all up fairly nicely, I can't switch systems back to the osx stupdisk
And why you ask? well, because of my fun wireless Microslop key and mouse set ... essentially if you are on the OS alt screen, well the maus and the keyboard are really limited down to common commands ... and arrows don't work
So I rack my brains for the eject command combo for about 30 minutes and then afterwards swear to write it down ... did I do that? actually no, but I think I can remember this time ... famous last words
August 4, 2005
Second City
Well, out here in the second city ... it's actually pretty nice. It actually could just be that I am in the environmentally controlled A/C environment ... but be that as it may, this place doesn't seem so bad ... compared to how built out the rest of this island is
August 3, 2005
Road Swing, Game 2
Same old song yesterday, the hole that starting pitching puts the team in from time to time
Inside, impressions of NYY at CLE (105/162)
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August 2, 2005
Another brick
In the wall ... or through the glass?
I think things here are really in for some changes ... just today, I saw that the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled against the admission preference for KS. It is interesting to read of this ruling because the 9th Cir is regarded as "the liberal" court, and I think KS thought they could win both at the district court here (which they did) and at the Ninth, which has backed OHA voting restriction in the past
I really wonder what it means to have our state under the mainland "color blind" standard, which sounds so ironic to say it, because this place for so long has been the so-called model of multicultural society and "tolerance". It is almost a Bizarro implication, where a person who is a majority anywhere else in the US ... can force entry into a school set up PRIVATELY and intended to correct the social and economic difficulties faced by a group that once was sovereign here.
The sad and difficult implication is that it appears another leg has been kicked out of the efforts to right the political wrong of the overthrow of the former kingdom here. The road to justice appears to be coming to an end ... whether people here want it to or not
August 1, 2005
Identity Identifies I Don't Get It
One of the major things that I have been trying to get my mind around over the past several years is personal cultural identification. It sounds more boring or obscure than it should
July 28, 2005
Taken A While
Well, it's taken me awhile to write down some impressions of Mraz's new CD ... but let me get out a few tidbits that are Mraz-related ... before I go absentminded
July 25, 2005
Bizarre motivations
After making a key decision to reload the shuff up with metal tunes that really rock, I found that exercise was a breeze last night (which isn't surprising)
It made me want to upgrade some of my old cass tapes and albums to CDs, this is a very unfortunate side effect and turn of events LOL
July 22, 2005
King of Hipe
Yes, what do you get when you overhype ... you get tripe hype, so ouila, HIPE.
I feel like I'm really overhyping, but I can't get enough of this recent find (well, depends how you define "recent", I think I heard it on WOXY or did I hear it on iTunes sometime late May/June??)
We have been listening to our favorite Canadian artist at the moment ... specifically Feist's "Let It Die" for quite a while now, and I don't seem to be able to sit for any amount of time and write a review. But, I really love it alot ... in fact, the most apt comparison I can draw is that freshness when I first heard norah, and her voice is just amazingly dynamic and emotionally evocative
Great starter tracks to sample are One Evening, Gatekeeper, and Inside Out, but Now At Last and the cover of Secret Heart are equally good
What is even more cool is her acoustic set on M.B.E. (requires RealPlayer), which features some better arrangements of the songs on the cd ... and I suppose a great place to sample her music
July 21, 2005
Where I'd Been
Well, it's been a while between actual journal entries ... let's just say I was doing terribly grownup things that were work-related and now that they are reasonably under control again ... yeah, I actually feel like writing something
July 20, 2005
Can You Imagine
I suppose it is tremendously ironic to me to think of modern life today ... and think about how much personal "stress" we each have. There was a time when things were simpler, when all people were concerned about was a) what was for lunch? or food and b) trying not to be lunch to some predatory creature.
Now it's like we have artificial deadlines for this or that -- we place conditions on our happiness based on dubious criteria (e.g., how much $ we make, what kind of stuff we own, etc.) -- and we ultimately feel lost, when we have nowhere to go or nothing to do ... like we somehow need to be kept busy
The more I think about it, the more attractive voluntary simplicity is
July 19, 2005
Little tidbits
I just noticed that Athlete "Wires" has been the free download of this past week on iTs. Well, free is always good, so if you haven't grabbed it yet for a test drive, well we can't recommend that track enough
And our love affair with Morning Becomes Eclectic grows, there are great shows with performances by Bell X1, Feist (who we are calling the Canadian Norah), and great alt-balladeer Stephen Malkmus
There's still a few we have to catch up with ... I think we will be watching the Sufjan one sooner than later
July 17, 2005
Where's the rock at?
I think that watching the in-excess reality show has sharpened my taste for some straightforward rock ... so I find myself popping in stuff by the Stones and other straightforward rock bands
There's really not much of it anymore, is there? The old school rockers are putting out cover albums ... and the new school, well, it's just not as focused on rocking
July 16, 2005
Sun Dumb
Well, I had made up my mind to really do a thorough wash and wax to my car this morning ... or at least, I thought that I could avoid the harshness of the summer sun here
So I went out fairly early in the morning and got out of it very quickly, and reparked under the garage ... well I thought so, anyways. Little did I know, when I looked at my skin later and felt some discomfort around my neck that I got burned anyways. I wish I could say that the sun is somehow nearer to the earth or that the ozone layer really isn't what it used to be, but there is a part of me that doesn't really want to put on lotion for just 30-45 minutes of sun exposure
July 15, 2005
Realistically Not So Realistic
There is a place, we shall call it School A ... I suppose that School A is not very much different than other schools of its sort. It has it's own prescribed curriculum, and will never be flexible and adapt to current needs in life here, such as that people can't just stop working to go to school. All they seem to like to say is, well you can't do this, you can't do that ... and we can't make accommodations for you
There is a place, we shall call it School B. It has perhaps reached a bit too far to help working adults to attend school and get meaningful higher education credentials. It is hard for me to understand why it would be why more schools aren't more like School B nowadays, and get real that there really are not that many "pure students" that only go to school and do not work full or part time.
But what do I know ...
July 14, 2005
Unrealistic and sucked in
So I guess I'm another one of those easily dupe-able customers of the iT store. There really isn't much that I want right now, but I still try buying a single here and a single there. I am really wondering why big red fruit co. is trying so hard to boost sales numbers, is a key earnings report coming out? Why do they need a quick 20 mil in revenue? ... I wonder?
(Sunday update: well, no one from Hawaii won anything from this contest)
July 13, 2005
Pondering television
So, last night, I got to watch the tail end of the reality series that supposedly will help in-excess (phonetically) find their lead singer
SD and I couldn't help but wonder about one practical matter of this all ... say you were in your 40s or so, would you pick a full band member who was barely in their 20s (ed note: have found out the average age is late 20s-early 30s ... hmm, still smells like a one off pubstunt)
July 12, 2005
Passion Free
Today was usually a day where I would stop everything at the release of the new college football title for my sonyFATstation
I went in to go get it AGAIN this year, and stood in line again ... and listened to each customer get pitched to preorder the pro football game coming out in three weeks
July 11, 2005
Harm > Good
This is quite the inane thought, but when service tech people screw up ... wow, you can really notice it. Whether it is your car, the A/C in your office, or whatever ... in general, you can trust that these people will do the job right and life can go on
But, man, those few times they mess up ... well, the techs came to mess with the A/C in our office space. Now our central A/C blows unrestrictedly on high and at a pretty uncomfortably chilly temperature ... and we were told last Friday, it may be mid-week before someone comes to correct it
Bust out the parkas, it's XM in July
July 8, 2005
Reasonable is Good
I am always amazed with how reasonable my overall boss is -- I mean, I have never had a superior that I thought was wise, open, reasonable, practical, etc. ... I have had a few that were some of these things, but terribly lacking in other areas
Last Day
Of the work week, another time to reflect on a few things
So, let's get on with it
July 7, 2005
The Lost Art
Management
It's a lost art in this age of I'm okay, You're okay ... oh wait, You're disposable.
July 6, 2005
Going for a while
In the wrong direction.
There comes a point where nice becomes an obstacle to common sense. For example, if something was going wrong ... and you noticed it was wrong, would you wait until much after the fact to tell someone, hey I knew what you were doing was wrong ... (but because of being nice) I couldn't tell you at the time
I prefer honesty and a reasonable approach, how quaint
July 1, 2005
RIP Luther Vandross
I feel a bit sad at the news today that Luther Vandross has died. I can remember the first time I heard his amazing soulful voice and how I thought how great his music truly was. His vocals were a great inspiration to me to learn how to sing ... and although mine never came out with as much soul and expression, I am thankful for his creative life of music and performance and how it endlessly entertained me and brought me joy.
June 29, 2005
Road Trip, Game 3 PPD
Well, we got ourselves a good old fashioned summer rain out east, so whilst I wait out the baseball rain delay
Saw three more clips today on the Stryper website previewing tracks off Reborn, now due about a month and a half from now ... I like the sound of it, back to the hard rock sound
June 28, 2005
Crzz
Is it me or is Tom C. totally crzz, loony boy ... yes, you see it too
Seem to be in a lazy funk, probably jet lag and other time issues ... lack of sleep, ack -- Anyways, will try to type out my journals for the ninth island trip, I don't have the camera, so no pictures just yet
Not much to report today, other than my current favorite listening is Every Move A Picture's EP available on iTunes -- anddddd, you can watch most of the new bands live on KCRW.com, that's been a great timekiller for me lately
Of course, later this afternoon is our fearless leader El Busho speechifying about the state of the war in Iraq ... supposedly important this speechify, we'll see
June 27, 2005
Tired
Well, back to work ... if I didn't have a meeting today, I think today should have been a recovery day for our trip to the ninth island
I have a few journals to post later and will get around to the pics ... I must say, LV is a really interesting place to be while on vacation
More later
June 26, 2005
Back Home
There is one thing that always seems to suck about going on vacation packages. They always want to pull you out at some ungodly hour in the morning, and the lack of sleep really makes the rest of your day when you finally get back ... pretty much a lost cause due to sleep deprivation
It happened to me again, I don't really have anything to say about it
June 24, 2005
Luau Live from Vegas: Day 2
Well, we were tired from doing a lot of stuff yesterday
A bit of a late start out of the gate
June 23, 2005
Luau Live from Vegas: Day 1
Well this morning we went to go pick up the rental car and go see some of the things around town
The theme of the day is: this ain't fricking service with a smile town, no, it's not
June 22, 2005
Where Are We?
Okay, so today SD and I set off on a voyage to the ninth island
Where is the ninth island, you ask ... well wonder no more
June 20, 2005
Riddle me this
As the master of low expectations related to shipping companies, I am puzzled again with certain matters of efficiency
June 18, 2005
Eventful Night
Just a few thoughts, do you have a favorite restaurant in your neighborhood that you personally love and have been going to forever
June 17, 2005
You Think?
I think ...
Was reading the front page story in today's PBN ... it said that now experts are BEGINNING to discuss whether Hawaii has reached its carrying capacity for sustainable tourism and sustainable growth
June 16, 2005
Good old fashioned
Well, here's my first entry in about a week or so ... well at least one that doesn't involve hype, ranting, or baseball
Now that we are in the post-MJ trial era ... what will be news now?
It's going
But to where I do not know.
Over the past few months, a seeming perfect storm has been brewing and boiling over this place where we live. Again in the news this morning, tales of the difficulties to get affordable shelter ... note: I do mean shelter because 333 sq. ft. hardly qualifies as housing ... you want a close approximation, try a little over 18 feet by 18 feet, I think some jail cells are larger. Add to it the compounding traffic problems that I see each morning on the news, the high gas prices that are covered daily, and all these stories about STRESS
June 15, 2005
Convert
Consider me a full fledged convert to the church of that place for subs that starts with a Q. I have been dabbling over the past three weeks. I figure that since I really like it, it must not be that good for you, in the health sense
But their new steak and cheese sandwich is something freaking amazing
June 13, 2005
Post Weekend
And that's what happens when worlds collide ...
I was thinking about our visit to the annual P-walk yesterday, and I came to some odd conclusions about it.
June 8, 2005
Little something
Well, the much anticipated new album by Jason Mraz will be out on July 26th. A little while ago I got a promo email with a pre-order offer, the track listing, the contents of the special boxset, etc.
June 6, 2005
Long Day
You know it's a long slooowww day when people start disappearing for hours on end, and coming back with KMart bags, Longs bags ... or taking lunch until 2-something in the afternoon
It really kind of gives new proof to the cat is away maxim -- why do people who are otherwise jobloss fearing, diligent employees decide to take liberties when the boss is out of the office, and the vacationing secty is not watching the door
June 5, 2005
Museless
I really haven't had much to write about over the past few days. It did strike me when I was at the gym over the course of the week, literally how many young people were there
I guess school is out? ... the other thing that struck me was that I don't remember being THAT into lifting weights, killing myself with cardio when I was 17-21, etc. Now it seems every gym I go to is swarming with "youngsters" -- I don't know what it means other than again this is a change from how it was 15-20 years ago
June 4, 2005
She Devil's Corner
"So why don't you close your curtains at night?", she asked.
This has been an ongoing loose debate that SD and I have been having over the proper use of curtains
June 2, 2005
Scrambling
SD and I have finally decided on where to go for our summer travel plans. I feel so mentally drained trying to set this and that up -- it's really funny but in towns with a lot of entertainment, tickets to prime events can be really hard to come by from the original issuing source, abut if you work and research hard enough, you will find other sources that can get you tickets AT FACE or discounted
Now, let's get to work on securing Wallflowers tickets LOL ... my head, my aching head
May 31, 2005
Randomly back to work
I was pondering two things this morning: one, is the A/C beginning to work too well down in our new digs, and two, if I had the means to get free air travel, well, would I go and go and go ... I might but then again, I think I would have a conscience about it
May 30, 2005
Memorial Day
From Buzzflash, I cannot put it any better
" Is this what September 11, 2001 has wrought?
As we observe another Memorial Day period, the greatest of all Bush lies has given us some 1650 more reasons for remembrance. It’s fair and just to remember and pray for those who’ve given their lives in the service of our country. It would be neither fair nor just to allow this Memorial Day to pass without pointing to the lies and duplicity of those who’ve sent them to their deaths.
"It is the duty of the patriot to protect his country from its government."
-- Thomas Paine "
May 27, 2005
About time
(Later: As I continue to ponder my podcast possibilities, here was a unique, you guessed it podcast about using stuff like RIAA material on p-casts)
It struck me as I was screwing back on my clear enclosure on the old Cube near midnight last night, that it may be time to set it aside. As you may know, I've been doing mods to it to see how much more mileage I can get out of it -- I think I have reached the technical end of it all, I put in a flashed Radeon 9.2k, and although it fits the AGP (and runs surprisingly well), it is not ithe most firmest installation without matching brackets to hold it in place ... it's like it's floating, so I guess I may have to fab a metal bracket to hold it to the base of the Cube
Reading some tidbits this morning, one of the more interesting ones was a picture of Charlize Theron in the live action movie adaptation of Peter Chung's Aeon Flux, okay so it wasn't THAT interesting ... how about a videogame based on it, too LOL
May 24, 2005
Far Away From Something
If you aren't SW-ed out, a short interview with the man in flannel GL in an upcoming issue of RS. It had some additional thoughts on the role of Vader in the hex-tilogy
May 23, 2005
Sync Down
Moment of Zen: Contemplating our coffee area
What will we do with our collection of shoyu packets, I mean, if we haven't used it by now .... good gawd, there could be a time when we could rue the fact of not having a convenient shoyu packet
Nothing really grabbing my interest on the tidbit front -- the nuclear option/filibuster thing in the US Senate fizzled in a soup of pretty gross back patting and glad handing; Apple using Intel chips, eh kinda interesting; more coverage on video game consoles that I won't buy; more coverage on the ticker that is SW grosses at the movies; so all in all, it's a Monday
Really digging the depth of Handsome Boy Modeling School's album, White People -- the song that is getting a ton of spins with me is their track, Greatest Mistake, with Jamie Cullum and John Oates, it's like classic H&O with an awesome simple rhythm to it
I am beginning to think the next few weeks will be musically expensive for me -- new Gorillaz tomorrow, and in two weeks, new Coldplay
Hopefully, in the upcoming week, I can write up some reviews of the new Weezer and new Ryan Adams and The Cardinals albums
May 22, 2005
Hazy
As I reflect on my second experience with M'chaya, I must say that I am way more sold on going to G'taku or my two favorite J-restaurants in the hometown Waip/Waik areas ... I guess I can sum it up in a few concepts, 90 minutes, 30 bucks, questionable service, decent food, AllUCanEat -- yes, it is kind of a trainwreck
I should really get around to trying Shoku-D, well ... maybe we can bend my boycott of town to go there LOL -- It is so weird how spoiled I am now about NOT going into town, I just don't want to deal with all the traffic (even on the weekends), parking, and long ride, if I absolutely don't have to
May 20, 2005
Probably coincidence
It seems to me that my listening tastes for today and my new version of iT are oddly in sync ... I say oddly because I have not tried applying the new taste preference filters/smart playlists or anything
I apparently have gotten over the symptoms of my Star Wars Flu yesterday LOL
May 19, 2005
Numb
So, anyways, it's way past lunchtime ... and I'm feeling numb. I don't know if it is lack of sleep, too much caffeine, the geeky emotional rollercoaster of seeing a new SW film (probably for the last time).
Well, seeing how I don't feel like eating, nor feel real in sync with what time it actually is in the work day ... Let's do some tidbits before it's time to eat my huli huli chicken salad sandwich
Oh and btw, no Yankee game today as well to ground me, hahaha as if that does at all
---
May 18, 2005
The End Is Near
The Peter Jackson directing and TV rumors notwithstanding, I guess I titled this entry this way because with the start of the Sith run tonight/late tomorrw morning, we are nearing the end of an era of Star Wars films that covered most of my life and was very influential in starting up some of the hobbies that persist and cost me $$ even until today -- in that way, the whole SW saga will always have a place in my formative years, and it makes me somehow sad to see it go
I have yet to decide whether I will continue my tradition starting with ROTJ of seeing the first showing of the last three movies. I must admit that for AOTC, standing in line for 2-1/2 hours, and then ... GASP ... falling asleep halfway through, makes the reason side of me say, yes you can go, but probably an hour into the nearly 2-1/2 hour epic I will be sleeping, so you will have to go again, so why not wait til this weekend for it to run at a reasonable hour, like 7:00PM or so, LOL
May 17, 2005
Tidbits, no Jeebus talk
Okay we know what vog is, but did you know how bad it is? Well, it made the national news today. I read an article that said that it pollutes in a magnitude of 6000x worse than the worst offending industrial polluter of sulfur dioxide in the Upper 49. The interesting point about the discussion is that no one wants to firmly say health problems ensue from it ... and yes, this is an "are you kidding me?" moment
May 15, 2005
Keeping it REALigious
In keeping with yesterday's pseudo-religious tidbit, let's look at what the peeps in the contiguous, yes Hawaii and Alaska were not included, thought in a survey about religious and afterlife concepts
May 14, 2005
Tired
Not really in a writing mood today, actually feeling a bit beat after going to the beach for a walk this morning in the sun, and then later spending some time at the ballyard on the very hard plastic chairs at Rainbow Stadium
One tidbit for today ...
May 13, 2005
There is a light that never goes out
I may never say this again, but this time China has it right. The Chinese government has used taxes and other policies to discourage real estate speculation, curb development of luxury housing and commercial developments in heavily populated areas, and ensure a good supply of affordable housing
Can you think of somewhere that would do well to look into what China has done? LOL
May 12, 2005
Don't Like The Fact
That I have to constantly look at other job listings to keep my options open to upgrade my salary to live here reasonably comfortably, even though I currently enjoy my current job ... it is the eternal problem of working for the man, not enough centavos pass across the counter
Slightly revised:
And this morning, wow I never saw so much traffic in my life driving out to TEH NU CITY -- I mean, it was literally backed thick from where I get on the freeway at Waikele, all the way through to past Makakilo and halfway into Kapolei, where I get off the freeway -- It's mornings like this that make me very grateful for my job with the man out in the boonies, I suppose I should be alot more grateful
Traffic is so crzz and for suck ... and more notes and tidbits from the morning scan within
May 11, 2005
REVISED Moment of Zen for today
I haven't bought the new NIN, have listened to it, though ... I may not review it here anytime soon, basically because I don't see myself buying it
Saw this linked on Stereogum, some other person's economical review with visual aids ... see those people that taught you that visual aids were important were on to something. See it here
Oh yeah, and it is the number one selling disc in USA this past week, just FYI
May 10, 2005
Once In A Lifetime
(Afternoon note: Found out that they are offerring packages all tour via the Stones travel service, they have a travel service too now? They are more business-like than KISS ... 3G for three nights all inclusive, wish I was rich, perhaps I should wish harder LOL, that's out of hand)
Imagine me asleep at the wheel ... yes it does happen frequently, doesn't it LOL
Well, still in the looking around for travel ideas, and I let slip out of my mind that the Stones were touring here again later this year ... in fact, I got an email about it yesterday, short attention span SLASH no short term memory guy
Tix went on sale for the show at Fenway ... of course, it is VERY VERY RARE to get a show there, I think this will only be the second or third show ever ... I think the Boss played there once, and some other, big name escaping me
Memory problem LOL
So even as a Amex holder, I could have bought ... well I remembered one hour too late ... especially in this era of the Internet -- so, so much for the once in a lifetime kill two birds with one stone thing of, A) go to Fenway and B) bonus: see the Stones
May 9, 2005
Daily Scan: Odd Stuff
Well, I'm not really going to write about anything today, nothing BIG in the scheme of things is striking my interest
So I wrote about some little tidbits ... so of course, we all read about the new security flaw in the really really supersafe, like we guarantee it, Firefox, here's a bit more of what I saw on my daily scan
May 8, 2005
Thankful
On this Mother's Day, I must say how thankful that I am for my mom's love and support, and her love and caring for me
May 7, 2005
A Memorial
I was shocked today to learn that my second cousin passed away
To be honest, for many years, we had a difficult relationship and I really didn't like her very much at all
But recently things have thawed and normalized between us, it's really hard to keep a grudge through the years, it really is ... and it's just not worth it
I know that recently she has been having serious physical problems and a series of surgeries ... I had remarked to other family members that it looked like she was withering away
Well, no one deserves to die at 36 ... I hope she finds peace that she couldn't in her last years here on Earth
R.I.P. LC
May 6, 2005
Straight Bloggin
After ogling a spicy Jaguar station wagon to buy in the latest PBN ... LOL
Speaking of PBN, reading the top story on who the D party is trying to run against the current governor spurred this thought
May 5, 2005
Really and truly ...
(Afternoon note: Saw something pretty cool and funny on Eng -- looky here -- so called Fox News channel blocker LOL)
A blog entry
So, I was thinking to myself what if I used good blogging practices for the first time in a long time, how would that be like?
Then again ... would I know even one of them if it slapped me in the face
Today is 05 05 05 ... it certainly is nothing major, as we get to look forward to month, day, year matches at least until December 12, 2012 -- I can thank myself for noticing so quickly (realizing that the first one was January 1, 2001) ... well, takes me awhile nowadays LOL
May 4, 2005
Calming Hand: The Lesson
It was really funny yesterday afternoon I walked out of our office into the courtyard at our building and it just felt right
It was one of those moments where I felt all was right in the universe, there wasn't chaos, there was order ... I genuinely felt in my heart wow, this landscape is awesome, the warmth feels good, and I felt at peace
I know that earlier in the day I was feeling overwhelmed with work stuff, and then life stuff, and then it all stopped ... at that one point in the afternoon
Almost as if it were a sign of who is in control of things, that was a very awesome feeling, very comforting, almost as if I were having a conversation with the most high
May 3, 2005
A-Political Venting
I don't think I can remember a time when I have felt more divorced and perhaps dissonant from the current thinking behind contemporary politics
All signs point to squeezing out the middle class here in HIi -- and the Leg and the Governor are still applying strategies to handle GROWTH, in the forms of traffic relief, further development, etc. -- call me stupid, but isn't GROWTH causing a shitload of the problems right now? ... I guess I'm stupit
May 2, 2005
Taking liberties
You know there's something you can always count on near government buildings -- and no, it isn't government offices
There's always a small handful of employees that take regular ... and by REGULAR, I mean, frequent smoke breaks and they just sit there way beyond a reasonable break, shoot the shit, and take advantage
Any government job that I have worked here -- always the same peanut gallery, the same times of the day, taking way too long "smoke breaks", and wasting time
It makes me wonder how life would be without such behavior ... right, that would happen
April 30, 2005
What Does My Birthdate Mean
| Your Birthdate: October 25 |
|
Your birth on the 25th day of the month (7 energy) modifies your life path by giving you some special interest in technical, scientific, or other complex and often hard to understand subjects.
You may become something of a perfectionist and a stickler for details. Your thinking is logical and intuitive, rational and responsible. Your feelings may run deep, but you are not very likely to let them show. This birthday makes you a more private person, more introspective and perhaps more inflexible. In friendships you are very cautious and reserved. You are probably inventive, and given to unique approaches and solutions. |
April 29, 2005
Random Blah Blah
Afternoon Update:
I actually wrote up a review of the Norah show last Saturday ... I know, potential for stale is very high ... but I figured I might as well write something prior to it going totally stale
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I suppose I called the category by this name, because that's what it is most of the time
Was enjoying listening to The Replacements' Bastards of the Young during lunch and the sounds of Jellyfish
April 28, 2005
About time
Well, I finally went to grab the new CD/DVD by Athlete (on sale, too, what a bonus!) ... made in Holland, btw whatever that means -- hopefully at some point, I can do a review this weekend -- there's some really great low powered music going on in GBR lately that really deserves play here, oh well wait a year or two, I guess LOL
It's pretty weird to me still that I can listen to stuff from Europe on webradio -- or even on Audioscrob/Last and I can't buy it for months and months and months
What may be even odder is that I love the taste of probably a teenage girl in Germany --- the implications are huge -- but Last.Fm profile radio is a real godsend to people like me who live and die for new music
Anyways, if you look on my profile page, you'll see her there as one of my neighbours (BR) ...
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The allergies seem to be breaking down quite well -- I am amazed at the power of a simple injection, supported by pills -- quick relief is just an injection away, the implications of that statement are scary yet true
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We went to O/Back last night because we were thwarted from going to the new BCD in Waipio --- now, I don't know what their deal is, but they have okazuya hours -- It was quite funny to see people walk up to their door, pull on it and be stoned by the door that didn't budge
It had been a while since we went to O/B and man, their portions are ungodly huge -- you really get food for two in a single entree there, they really don't fool around at all
April 27, 2005
Must be
In an allergy medicine kind of mood
Why else would I be playing Surface and Howard Jones LOL?
The amazing thing that always stuns me is that as a society, we have conquered many things with technology; however things such as the common cold, cancers, and allergies are almost like voodoo -- so poorly understood,
and so many things are really hit and miss
At least with the music thing, I can tell that what I like is stuff with a good groove to it -- next up is Natalie Cole, before she started redoing her papa's catalog -- man, she was one heck of a R&B diva with such a high quality, distinctive voice
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Haven't been watching much live baseball due to being either too wired or too sleepy from allergy medicine -- so I plan to catch up ... eventually
famous last words LOL
April 24, 2005
thought of the day, too
Food allergies are the suck
April 23, 2005
thought of the day
the common cold is for suck
April 22, 2005
After all this time
Well, I was thinking that after all this time, you would think someone would have invented or discovered some cure to the common cold -- oh well, let's give them a little more time
It's always tough to work in the office with people that have kids -- kids, well they get sick, they're kinda germy -- and that means parents get sick, and for some reason, no one uses sick leave APPROPRIATELY any more so they come and infect the whole office eventually
So for those who take sick leave when they are not sick, then have to come to work and get the rest of us sick -- try staying at home for a few days so that it doesn't keep rotating around the office
April 21, 2005
Odd thought
Stupid consumption item I am currently tempted by:
Sin City sculpt action figures in B&W
--
Okay, so we've known for a while that Tesla was touring with Def Lep -- and adding our bizarre logic, they are both scheduled for cover albums -- my question is, wouldn't it be weird to go see these two bands in concert and then have them do stuff from other artists (because that's their "new" stuff)
It's like double nostalgia
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The rise of the tribute bands -- it seems like more than ever there are a ton of tribute bands out there -- I think before they used to just be a curiosity in big concert towns like LA, where there's a show somewhere every night -- now they are touring all over including backwater Paradise
It's kinda interesting -- if your favorite band can't get their shit together, no problem -- there's if your band doesn't play a set of their old stuff, no problem -- it's like the ultimate cater to the fans, when the real isn't about to tour anytime soon
April 20, 2005
This and more this
Well, the Mraz is touring with Alanis on her Jagged Pill Acoustic tour this summer -- and we finally have a release date on the new "Mr. A-Z" -- now coming on July 26th
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I was thinking that I wouldn't mind seeing Colin Hay live, yes he of the former Men At Work -- apparently he is doing standup comedy now, yes I am as surprised as you are -- well, he does play some shows, too -- so perhaps one of these days he'll swing into our part of the woods
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April 19, 2005
Culture of Fear
Ok, so now I'm supposed to be afraid of becoming infertile -- as men are less likely to be infertile before 25, and more likely after 35 -- let me apply some analysis, that means that 26-34 somehow doesn't register on the range -- so somehow this study is fuct, and the story as well must be fuct
That means, this is another bogus story attempting to create fear -- I know that these stories are those, oh, I didn't know that kind of interest story -- the natural process of life is so gradual and intelligent that I just don't buy this crap
So when my biological infertility alarm goes on in October, I'll hit the snooze
---
April 18, 2005
What Do I Know
I always thought that if you were committed to a place, you would be there all the time -- not just one time a week
I always thought that nice to have versus need to have meant -- that one should be reasonable in terms of deciding what they really needed -- like for example taking up two large office spaces in a full building when you work there only once a week -- yeah, exactly, that's need to have ... psshh
I always thought that if someone was there before you and had set up all their possessions, that you should kindly ask them to move -- wrong again, you can just move them up and out -- of course, don't involve them in consultations -- and of course just tell them when you have planned to move them, just because -- I guess the pilgrim/manifest destiny mentality still exists today -- then again, what do you expect from someone educated partly in New England
But what do I know ... back to moving -- I can feel our town improving as we speak -- smell that? that's progress ... would someone move the cow with horns and the nose ring away from me, please?
April 16, 2005
Drive with the Pack
Okay, so I survived another Saturday morning traffic jam -- yes, that's right -- if you try to go into town from out west here on SAT morning -- uh, good luck to you -- and Godspeed
What I have noticed lately, however, is that people love to drive in packs here -- like a clump of 4-6 cars -- then there's a big space in front and back until the next clump -- I happen to think it's because well, vans don't go fast with families in them (so uh, slower traffic to the LEFT -- yes, that is no mistype)
The other thing is that the SUVs and Vans in the middle lane are naturally going slow -- because everyone is packed in -- and then everyone else just drives like a lunatic swerving and speeding around clumps of cars stuck behind vans, big trucks, and vans
Man, traffic is so for suck here -- even on weekends
April 15, 2005
Miscellaneous Chatter
It's funny, I was looking at some of the statistics on the Last/AScrob page -- and I thought to myself -- partly, that's what happens when you just let the iT run by itself -- and that even though it's intended to track how you listen, for some reason, I wanted to manipulate it -- unfortunately, I don't have the time or patience to program a playlist, especially if I'm not going to sit through and listen to what I've programmed -- essentially I have too much itchy fingers to listen to a playlist clean
April 14, 2005
Siege Mentality and Family Idiosyncracies
Ok, so why do local J families always either eat at the local chopsuey or at J food, for all family dinners?
Family dinner with the other side of the family -- I hardly have family dinner with the other side -- usually it's when my JW aunt -- and yes, JW is a religion -- comes here to "visit"
Well, I wouldn't call it a "visit" as much as it is she's conveniently here because her church is having some function here -- well, this time she's on her way to Nippon for apparently church and travel reasons, so off to dinner we go
Now, there's something that I wish to say about my other aunt -- who actually lives here -- I never truly understand where she's coming from
So the story this time is that my very estranged cousin wanted the family to meet his new wife from Japan -- so my aunt said well, if the schedules all matched up, she could have come to dinner at her house
But since we are having dinner out at a restaurant, now she can't come? ... I just don't get it
The other issue that I have is that I don't understand how when plans are made for dinner that they didn't say oh, bring SD -- this irritates me more than slightly
I have a feeling it's my aunt, no not the one from the mainland that has done this oversight -- I guess 5 years is not long enough to have that info sink in when you hardly see someone? not
The stupid part is, when we are there, they will say oh, how come SD didnt come? -- to which I will say, well gee, you didn't say to bring her now did you? well, I'm not the one doing the inviting now am I? -- yeah, I so would say that
I think as local J people we are kind of repressed in that sense -- like we don't say what bothers us, until it goes FULLY volcano -- and that's unfortunate because misunderstandings can become very huge given years and years passing by
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April 13, 2005
Who is
Looking out for you?
I have been wondering out loud about such things lately as it has seemed that there are many aspects of life now where government no longer provides a buffer against insecurity or bad turns of events -- I guess I take it personal because economic insecurity is something near and dear to our hearts here in 5-0
April 12, 2005
Dull Dull
On this off day, I have to admit to something that I have really noticed over the course of two seasons now -- GD, the Interlocking are a dull team -- not untalented, just dull and uninteresting
There's really no one that you go wow, that's charisma -- or wow, this guy really plays hard and right -- or just simply yeah, i'm pulling for him -- and there's no sense that the team is full of characters worth pulling for -- still my team, but man, dull -- bunch of faceless hired guns
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I would really love to enjoy some NFL draft talk this week, but I have noticed that when I listen to BnG Radio ... well, I just can't stand the personality who does that program -- I mean talk about whiny, irritating, dull and grating -- so I need to find out BnG information by myself
April 11, 2005
Quirky preferences
It's Monday morning again -- I have really never been one to dread Mondays or be really down about returning to work
So my rhetorical question is this, if the weekend is supposed to be restful, how come we put so much into it -- I mean, it's like we're working seven days a week -- it's no wonder we feel like crap on the 8th day, just thinking aloud
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I wish I had something real important to say about current events -- I guess I don't have anything to say about the Pope other than he seemed like a good man -- I'm just so tired of the El Busho antics, I really have nothing further to say -- the whole Kanno thing, well ... no, not writing about that, either -- and the whole we never knew traffic could be so bad thing, well both janitor and I have been blaggin this one prior to this
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I suppose that I have two really obvious ones -- I think that I have discussed them here or elsewhere
I think that the primary one is the whole no one can lay on my bed prior to me sleeping there -- I hate pre-warmed beds, actually because I don't cope well with warm sleeping conditions in general -- a pre-warmed bed on a warm night is well, pfbbttt
The other one is about facilities -- I am highly germ paranoid with respect to that
This morning I heard a really weird one as my superior indicated that he didn't like a particular kind of word processing list bullet
Umm yep, we all have our quirks
April 10, 2005
Functional Pageant Wear
We notice weird things, don't we?
Well, at least I do ... last night while we were at the gym, I noticed this woman that had your typical lycra mix shorts on
The funny thing about it was that there was this enigmatic wording a little below the waistband on the butt side -- it said miss honolulu, in some really computery font that looked like arial narrow bolded & lowercased-- SD was wondering if that was pageant wear
I guess people really do sell stuff off cafepress -- I don't know, just speculating
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Rediscovering: Great Expectations S/T
Packing up another set of cds to go to the great reseller in SoCal -- ye old Second Spin -- the 1997 movie S/T for that movie with Ethan and Gwyn is quite interesting to listen to even today -- great songs include Life in Mono, a great Cesaria Evora track, and a where are they now track from David Garza
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Rediscovering: Red, Hot and Rhapsody
This one was the follow-up to AIDS benefit cd Red, Hot and Blue -- this one a set of rhapsodic sounds from the absolute American songmaster Cole Porter --
Man, there are two songs that really crush -- a Natalie Merchant cover of "But Not For Me" and a shine bright, not long by Sinead O'Connor of the all-time classic "Someone to watch over me"
Yanks-Os notes within (6/162) ... tomorrow Bombers-Sawx, SERIES 2!!!
April 9, 2005
Welcome to Summer
Gee, I guess our second season started today -- what I mean is that we seem to only have spring and summer here in paradiso -- hot, very hot
Inside, thoughts on Bombers-Os (NYY 5/162)
April 8, 2005
Spoilt
Anyways, so I finally figured out what the problem was with my iT and AScrob -- it feels so yesterday to have to look through communications logs to figure out what the heck was going on -- i'm a lawyah jim, not a networking specialist
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The rediscovery process continues -- as I am truly digging the Cary Brothers "Blue Eyes" track on the Garden State S/T -- that S/T is truly one of the great S/Ts from last year
Man, the other thing is that I am so hooked on the White People CD by Handsome Boy Modeling School -- they totally own my soul right now, suct in in a major way
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I think I'm getting spoiled, this whole watch any baseball game thing is unbelievably awesome and addictive -- got to catch some of the Cubs home opener this morning -- gotta get out to Wrigley at some point
(Afternoon note)
Almost forgot to watch the game today, LOL -- why is this turning into a challenge ... comical
Boy, today's first game of the Os series, is turning into a GD rout of major proportions -- oh well, such is the nature of the 162 game marathon season
When I first checked in, the score was 5-1 and Wright was struggling
Next check in, Sheffield knocked in Jeter with a HR, now 5-3
Roof falls in on Karsay, Os 10-3 now
At this point, Os 11-4 in the 8th -- you know it's a blowout game when the announcers start talking about music in the clubhouse for a few innings running and the commentary about the game goes to very minimal
April 7, 2005
Controversially Straightforward
Soooo, I was thinking today about one of the most fun sounding, laid back songs that I've heard since .... Summertime by the FP and JJ, LOL nott
Seriously, the single from the multi-genre, hot Brazilian girls (oh great, just by writing BG on this blog, it will get listed among the porn sites ... p.u.)
What can be so controversial about a satirical song about what people enjoy about certain aspects of life -- and the funny thing is that it is clever in its straightforwardness -- and not rude or excessive
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The other thing that I have noticed while writing this blog, I really like Bill Janovitz's (ex-Buffalo Tom) recent stuff -- kinda reminds me of a style ala the Wallflowers -- but it's just good old fashioned straightforward band rock
I can almost forgive his liking the Sawx, LOL
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More reason to hate Microslop -- I tried to run Last.fm/AudioScrob on my office machine -- it didn't work, and not for the "firewall" reason either -- it unidentifiably just does not seem to like things called iTewnz, I guess -- run it on WMP, fine -- but not iT -- psshh
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The other thing that I have decided to do is use the journal capacity of this journal -- hoowee, redundancy is redundant
I have decided to record my exercise and diet things here and probably measurable stats as well -- I got this grand lightbulb idea from janitor's previous entries, I thought it was a good idea -- I will just mod it to my needs
April 4, 2005
Unbelievably
Seriously tired -- today was a grindfest at work
and last night I didn't sleep too well
April 3, 2005
So what's the deal?
I have always wondered how the heck they make band decisions on the FM dial -- and by band I mean, radio license and secondarily programming
Sure, I couldn't understand the whole let's try to own all the Hawaiian music -- later I couldn't understand, let's try to fill the air with 3, then 4 "urban music" stations
Now, I'm really puzzled -- I feel sorry for those who experience new music for the first time on the radio -- I guess I'm a nostalgic old futt who actually appreciated that you could get a diversity of music and actually learn about new music that way
What with the need to listen to right wing talk shows IN STEREO -- and the death of urban music on 1-94 -- good luck HNL on finding new music
So here's your choices as they stand -- classical, jazz, deadly mindnumbing contempo, Xtian, more contempo, more Xtian, even more contempo, right wing bullcrap, island music, more island music (just older kind), even more island music, female tuned alt pop ... I give up
Let me tune in to some jawaiified cover songs from my youth on the radio LOL
April 2, 2005
Too much
How many times can a story be told before it becomes a bunch of overhyped excess?
Well, there is yet another Metallica documentary, this time on VH1 ... and I mean, it's nothing new -- seems to be just another way to hype the IMO overhyped SKOM documentary
I'm really tired, in fact, burnt out over the whole Met overexposure thing that's been going on for close to two years straight now -- I realize that I am one of millions of casual and serious Met fans -- but even the most hardcore among us must admit, it's a bit much
It is so much that I don't even want to watch it -- and dos, I am very critical of what they have put out musically since None More Black (Smell the Glove, too)
It was interesting to me to watch the Strapping Young Lad DVD -- Devin was saying how all of metal performance is a parody, the style is really overblown and a parody -- and Strapping is one of the most metal of the metal
Alt rocky, hard rocky, bluesy, and now garagey Met -- honestly, it's been close to 17 years since Metallica has been heavy, low end, fast, and melodic --
And for now, their stuff goes into hibernation for me -- just tired of it
April 1, 2005
No ideas
Welcome to another It's Fucking April Now day ... no ideas this year for the absurd and sublime
So rev up those searches on why there is a fool's day
March 31, 2005
Tinges
I feel a tinge of ... ack, is that excitement about offerings at the movies again?
Anyways, with Sin City and the new Farrellys movie coming out soon, perhaps SD and I will be seen in a theatre near you again -- and it's really been a while
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Similarly, it seems like there is a lot of new music that I am excited about that is either here or coming soon -- new HHH, and finally Wires from Athlete will hit our market -- new Billy, new New O, and the Bravery -- actually new Phoenix as well
Looks like I will not be short for entertainment to consume, that's cool to me
March 30, 2005
Geeq Faqter
As you all already know, my geek factor is very high -- in fact, it probably is world class with respect to categories of some collectable items
So, just when I thought I was over you .... I've been getting ads in my email from toy collectible shops and they're hyping all this new stuff -- new Marvel Legends stuff that looks very cool -- and NOOOO, will not ... be sucked in ... new Star Wars figures
I saw the TRU promo and the WalMart promo, and even Tar-gayh which we do not have here -- new ROTS toys on sale at midnight Friday, I guess Saturday morning-- I remember the news covering the Phantom Menace toy release here, and I thought to myself ... gee, after two visually cool stinkers, will there still be a mad rush for SW toys?
I am just a sucker for cool looking stuff -- I saw the art for the lagoon troopers -- well, anyways, I guess I'm just programmed to like anything Vader, Boba, and Imperial Troopers -- I kinda think the helmet blend between the Stormies and the Clonies actually is a cool looking helmet
March 29, 2005
Not even close
I'm usually not one to watch, listen, or even remotely be a part of this national disease known as watch AI
Last night, I had it on while I was reading MIT's Tech Review magazine -- and looking up from time to time and listening to all of it -- I must say, there really is a big time lack of depth on the program
I heard that they had opened up the ages a bit more -- so these frustrated older types could get on -- and I suppose that was intended to increase the depth and quality
If last night is any indication, it's karaoke night at the old set in Hollywood -- there's no one with that IT factor, that originality, that charisma -- there is one supremely vocally talented woman .... but wait for it
she sings country -- BUZZKILL
Most of the rest of the performers do their best to mimic the performances of the original artists
I'm sorry I just can't get into it -- still
March 28, 2005
Sometimes
Yeah, sometimes you get over-enthused with something
Well, in my growing joy over my friends at 2nd spin -- I put together a sell that was well -- umm, too big for the FREE boxes I have laying around the house LOL
So, I guess I just have to go to the post office ... dread, dread
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The other thing I noticed today was that -- I really hate doing work like things while I'm at home at night -- doing stuff on the computer after looking at one for most of the day is not too fun for me at the moment -- trying to put certain things in order seems to require a bit more thinking than I am willing to exercise while feeling beat from work
March 25, 2005
Mist
So when is mist rain or rain mist?
I guess I was anticipating it to rain over the weekend after all -- channel 9 said so LOL
Well, it wasn't really rain as much as it was a mist -- like that spray bottle setting -- and I was wondering, ok this is a lot of mist, when is it actually going to start raining
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We saw BE COOL last night -- on the 2nd try -- we got it with one of those free passes from the DVD and one full admit
It wasn't a great movie, it wasn't a bad movie -- it was just really hard to follow for some reason -- you know how sometimes the characters speak in ways that the average person does not, just so that you can keep up with WTF is going on
Yeah, well, very very little of that -- so unlike Get where you had a few storylines all colliding in the same place -- here there was a few storylines colliding in the same place, except they got tidied up too nicely ... in a way where you go, okay so what was all the other 85% of the movie for -- it's like when someone tells a story that could be told in 3 mins and the world would all be better for it
It's interesting because with all the star power here, it was really underpowered and lazy feeling -- Travolta was doing his best play one note thing, Uma was playing her frazzled woman thing, Ced the Entertainer was actually not funny, The Rock did the People's Eyebrow like 22 times -- and then the movie ended -- usually Harvey Keitel brings the character to life, this time nup no matter how crazy they made him act -- even Vince Vaughn, same same
You know, and at the end of the day, it's not really that bad of a movie -- it actually might be a good airlines movie in-flight entertainment someday --
March 24, 2005
Curiosity
So when I was at the gym last night I was wondering something
What do you think that guy has on his Shuffle -- it was this local guy with a Shuff hanging from a neck chord
I was thinking Melissa Manchester LOL
March 23, 2005
Don't get it
Is there such a thing as foolish, blind loyalty?
These are the contexts of which I am thinking about -- like buying an album simply out of loyalty to whatever your favorite group is -- following an athletic team simply because of some uninformed choice when you were in second grade
Why shouldn't things change and evolve -- why can't people change things around without looking like a bandwagon jumper and someone who is a front runner -- why do certain bands release maddeningly off stuff, and why do some bands not venture far from the formula
I don't exactly why I give sideways glances to people that I know have changed allegiances to teams just because they are now the winning team -- perhaps they have it right in a way though -- I mean, what's so fun about cheering for a team that is at best mediocre -- everyone goes, oh, so when they get back, it'll be much sweeter -- so fit me with a RedSox apparel, too *shakemyhead*
In the most non-judgmental way possible, I find it really hard to believe that all of a sudden so many people here in the middle of the Pacific have become SO INTERESTED in two teams in the Northeast -- that's just bogus to me on some level -- I mean, everyone wants to support the champion -- but that's kind of lame to me in some way
Well, I was thinking that the low stress front running sports fans have it probably in the right place -- in other words, it's entertainment -- and there's nothing really entertaining about watching a bad team -- hey, change teams like you change underwear -- no problem, no stress, it's easy
In music, it is purely about entertainment -- I know that personally my allegiances have moved around -- to the point now, that I really am just a fan of music in general and not really of a handful of bands
Don't get me wrong, I still would see a handful of bands and support them out of some kind of loyalty (and more nostalgia, than anything else)
I have always wondered why bands just can't go out gracefully --why do they always have to go out thrashing and screaming -- why must we be subject to cover albums, or albums by one or two of the original lineup passed off as fitting the name, the concept, the history, and the essence of certain bands
I must admit that the majority of the groups and musicians that I have followed throughout my life -- well, they really have no good ideas left -- and maybe I'm getting old, but I tend to like their older style out of nostalgia -- and yes, I would rather have a Masters of Puppets 2 better than a St. Anger (for example)
Not that I want the songs to sound the same, but I think that every successful band has a formula, a foundation, or base sound -- and if they can get creative off of that, that's cool -- I came to this thought while re-watching Slayer's Still Reigning DVD -- they really haven't ventured too far from the Reign in Blood sound
Now, RIB is nothing like say, Show No Mercy which was really raw and thrashy, or Hell Awaits which was just the godfather of all apocalypse music -- but that's the sound the band is most comfortable with
I think AC/DC is kind of the same, and I can think of a few other bands -- actually a ton of them in the hard rock/metal genre -- so if you don't venture far from it, you don't get called a sellout -- yet if you don't venture far, it runs the risk of getting old, too
In the final analysis, I'm just a fan -- I'm less judgmental than I used to be about many of the things that I have written here -- I do find that at the very least people buying championship apparel of teams that they have no clue about beyond this championship year --- is probably good for the economy
And with music, it takes so much to build up to icon status -- there's so much music that I can think of that I like, that the bands were minor footnotes in rock history -- I guess a part of it is that icon status is difficult to watch die slowly and in an ugly way
March 22, 2005
Sappy Generation
You know, I was thinking to myself today -- what are the ballads of today, I mean, what are those memorable slow dance classics of the current generation
Do the yutes o' today even slow dance anymore?
I was thinking that there really isn't anything, not that I would necessarily know ... I thought this because most of the adult contempo music is actually made for adults -- I don't really see the yutes slow dancing to some of that stuff on krater or larrypriceland
Oh well, so ends my thinking of the day -- so deep, so deep
March 21, 2005
State of Wait
It's very funny how some things work -- some places you call them up or leave them a message, they get right back at you asap --
Some places you do the same thing, and you get ... yeah closer to being dead
I mean, I don't even think it's like they are hiding from you -- it's almost like they can't be bothered by that, and then when you finally get them on the phone, it's like oh, nobody knows nothing about nothing -- lame
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The new lineup on the Shuff
Must be getting old -- or it must be some psychological thing -- but when you play all these songs you like not only for their goodness but because they are linked to something -- let's just say the results are emotionally odd, indeed
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An odd factoid that I guess you had to be old enough to pay attention to -- the two famous funk songs by Brick -- Dusic and Dazz were actually abbreviations for Disco Music and Disco Jazz -- ok, I was six at the time, give me a break -- I learned something today LOL
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And I could get serious, too .... more to come later
March 20, 2005
Deep deep deep
The menu at Sumo is deep -- by that I mean, almost everything is good -- I mean, probably even the seafood something omelette probably kicks ass, too
I went to go get something framed at Pictures Plus today, after we swung by Sumo -- had some black pepper sauce beef fried noodles -- all I can say, is that Sumo is officially on the Satan, Inc. watchlist LOL -- damn, everything I've eaten there is just delicious beyond belief
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I don't know what is wrong with this year's edition of the university baseball team -- I have just seen the most awesome way to get beaten in my life -- okay, now squandering a 6-1 lead is awesome enough
However, when your relief pitchers bean three consecutive batters -- you can't startup a rally killing DP because your reserve 3b can't throw properly -- you walk TWO, yes two in with the bases loaded -- and you give up 6 runs in the 9th inning -- well, that about sums it up, this was as bad a loss as I've seen in a long time
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I've decided to go classic with my latest download on the Shuff -- I've gone with the Top 100 plus a few -- this thing still baffles my mind with its awesomeness
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Oh well, this weekend has flown by -- I forgot that this coming week is a short week, should be pretty busy
March 19, 2005
Behold the Power
Of marketing
Well, I can think of two instances of the influence of marketing -- the first is the really inane Old Navy new promo about bermuda shorts
You really don't think it's doing anything -- and then all of a sudden, you may find yourself living in a shotgun shack -- no no, you may find yourself behind all these women wanting to try on Bermuda shorts at O.N. -- it's quite ludicrous
The other thing is how these new DVDs have tickets to go see new theatrical releases -- so as one was about to expire, we decided to refresh our memory about Get Shorty prior to seeing Be Cool, just because we had a one free coupon in the DVD
Hook line sinker -- take the cash, I have no control, really
March 18, 2005
Attention Bananas
Can someone please inform our big house of lawmakers in the District that they are a legislative body? -- I find it somewhat bothersome that they have engaged in grandstanding and turning controversial issues into political farces
Two things, the steroids in baseball hearing where they are trying to "clean it up" and the questionable use of subpoena power to arbitrarily prevent the withdrawal of medical care in the Schiavo controversy
It is regrettable to see this kind of interference of a lawmaking body in what appears to be private interests
-- in the case of baseball, essentially going beyond their lawmaking authority to moving towards directing the baseball ownership and the players union on how and ultimately who should be disciplined or fired, arbitrarily and separate from the terms of their negotiated labor agreement. I am cognizant that baseball is a legally protected monopoly exempt from our nation's antitrust law, but the possession of the exemption does not render it to be arbitrarily subject to over-reaching oversight or commandeering
-- in the really sad Schiavo case, which has lingered on for 15 years, to prevent the verbally communicated wishes (that medical support be withheld) of the patient who has been reduced to a brain damaged/persistent vegetative state unsupportable without medical support and who has been essentially put into limbo due to legal battles over her continued "life"
I realize that both issues have support on both sides of the aisle -- both D and R -- I am wary of this seemingly uncautious, forward, intrusive approach taken by certain members of Congress to abuse its authority and powers to interfere and intrude into areas where it really has no legitimate purpose or say in
Unfathomable Impossibility of Consumption
I was having some mental block on doing something, so I surfed for a while -- was reading this forum on TV shows on DVD
It made me think about a few shows that I would love to have full seasons of -- the "new" Showtime version of The Outer Limits, all seven seasons -- yes, I am a geek for that show
I also would like seasons of Tales From The Crypt ... well, TFTC is rumored for some kind of release later this year -- TOL is just a schmozz in terms of how roaring lion studios have previously released -- no one has official sets, even the sets in Canada are incomplete
I know that for some other shows, it's just a waiting game -- like La Femme and OZ, and of course South Park -- I would love to know how they decided to price some of these sets, particularly USA networks and HBO -- man, sometimes it seems just unconscionably high -- and if not for price, for some shows, the delay or release schedule seems just interminable
March 16, 2005
Bold Discovery
Butterfinger eggs are good
That's all, now as you were LOL
March 15, 2005
My SUV needs love (rhyme pays)
In another magnificent bow to patrons and oil industry supporters, the Bush administration is again trying to allow oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Reserve (ANWR)
I just think about this issue in a very common sense way -- note, the term national in the name -- that means it's the common heritage of all citizens of this country -- in its current state, it is one of the last truly remarkable places in our national environment -- it really should not be exploited for the benefit of private interests
And I really find it mind boggling that rather than pursue a programmatic course or agenda that will promote genuine energy independence and sustainability for our nation -- our current national leadership wishes to just drill another hole in the ground, rather than look at a comprehensive approach of energy conservation, alternative sources of renewable energy, and get away from sources that make us dependent on external factors and external powers that be
Post Script
Well, the bill passed 51-49, close but no cigar -- it almost makes you think about exactly how much of a majority really is compelling enough to make certain actions become effective as government policy and law
March 14, 2005
Happy Pi Day
If you knew today was in honor of the famous mathematical approximation, then perhaps you like me should really get on with it
Pi is of course that interminal number that represents the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter
Happy Pi day to you
March 13, 2005
Ms. You Guys
So anyways, we went to a family dinner at the very excellente K's restaurant at Waikele -- it always surprises me how busy it is to get into that place at dinnertime
I don't think we've ever not waited to get a table there
Anyway, something struck me as odd -- and no it wasn't the food quality or the quality of service -- it was that our server had a idiosyncratic quirk
She referred to everyone as you guys -- everything had a you guys attached to it -- even to the old Japanese couple next to us -- you guys -- are you guys ready to order -- how are you guys doing -- can I get you guys something to drink -- did you guys save space for desserts
This may be the substitute for the mainlander you know among some local women -- I don't know why it struck me as odd, just latched onto it, I guess
And HB M!!!!
March 12, 2005
Wiped Out
I'm not very sure what it was about today -- but I sure was wiped out tired early this evening
We went to the baseball game this afternoon -- sat through an hour rain delay while they prepared the field -- and then saw a pretty awesome come from behind offensive performance, including a towering GS shot over left center
We left a bit early to go prep for a dinner at SD's house -- some of her family came over and one of them was celebrating a birthday
No sooner after dinner, I was just struck by the wave of fatigue and tiredness and went to go lie down -- I crashed out for a while, that was surprising
March 9, 2005
Unscintillating Nosty
Exciting job, not so much
So I was on the Live Aid DVD site today, and I was feeling that consumer pull, that urge to buy -- and I thought to myself while I watched some the clips of the performances -- that this was really an amazing thing from 20 years ago
Some of the bands may not have survived the tides of history -- but some of the performances are amazing even today -- the Queen performance was and still is the highlight for me -- seeing some of the bands like Spandau Ballet, who never really amounted to much but one hit -- the stripped down performance of Sting with Branford -- U2, Bowie, The Who, George Michael with Elton John, Madonna, Duran Duran -- this was a pretty awesome assembly of talent -- and just putting aside crap, to see original Sabbath and the remaining members of Zep perform together once more (even though that isn't on the DVD)
It's kind of a nostalgia trip for me to be reminded of the performances, and how this was very big 80s in some way, yet transcendent in another
So tempting to buy it, I just think its the boredom overcoming me LOL
March 8, 2005
Random Grumble
So I was thinking to myself today -- does it make sense in this world supposedly made safe for globalization by our nation (and no, I'm not saying this is a good thing) -- that we don't get some of the new releases before Britain does ... or the Great White North for that matter?
I am playing the role of the whiny amcan -- but man, why should we have to wait for the new Kings of Leon which just came out here -- why should we have to wait for Kasabian -- or now the new stuff from Athlete -- I mean, why should I pay import prices when I can wait til April -- when I'm tired of their music ...LOL
I don't get it, I really don't -- in the meantime, I guess I'll just listen to Wires on Virgin -- while waiting for Tourist from Athlete to be distributed in America
March 7, 2005
Contemplating the State of Independence
I find it very hard in recent days to listen to political chatter and such -- I remember that when I was younger I was a lot more into it, even though I was highly unsophisticated about it -- I considered myself an R during the Reagan years, for chrissake LOL
It seems to me that following something on the basis of a cult of personality -- like my childlike R status -- or on the basis of some half baked ideal that you haven't really thought out -- but really cling to not because of well reasoned thinking but because of selfishness
Ch8 Poll -- Traffic Bad, but Don't Build Mass Transit
For example, I found it interesting that everyone and their mother complains about traffic here -- now, isn't that an interesting topic -- well, having driven in it for a number of years, here is my simple GASP common sense conclusion -- too many single passenger/driver only vehicles
This is not rocket science -- the same people that say build it, wouldn't ride it to begin with -- so who are they providing the alternative choice for -- me? I wouldn't ride it either -- this is why that poll last night was the great truth telling of the state of traffic in HNL
Build it, but not for me -- in that case, everyone should just shut up or work nearer to where they live
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Gas prices and taxation
Okay, when I last checked perhaps a year or so ago for a research project, we pay the most gas taxes here -- and it gets parcelled here there and everywhere to our levels of government
So, do the roads look better to you these days? Do you see improvements in our overall highway and other transportation infrastructure? -- I found it funny to read a report on transportation infrastructure needs in the US in general -- they said if we fixed our house like we fixed our infrastructure, our house would be a beat up shack
Which brings me to another point, why interview the grumbly rich person driving a porsche at the gas station about raising fuel taxes or imposing a gas cap -- how do most rich people get rich anyways -- well, common sense answer #2 of the day -- you either are tight, but in a nice way to say it, you have control over accumulation versus spending -- and at the end of the day, rich, poor, green, blue whatever, I don't think people will stop driving until the gas is of rent-priced proportions -- in other words, $10-20 a gallon -- yes, think of the per week and month cost
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Disposable Income -- Who Are These People?
I have spent a lot of time recently thinking about either how financial credit is issued nowadays or how big ticket items here are just getting damn out of control in comparison to the incomes that most people have here
Private school
Okay, so supposedly these places are better than public school, right? -- as a percentage of the median income for most families spending on most of the schools, the CHUNK would be 25% per year -- now that's out of the gross, pretax income -- yikes -- and off to KS, my children go, I hope?!?!?!?!
Cars, Trucks, and Esuvees, Oh My
A cash deal on a car here LOL -- don't make me laugh -- so I wondered as a I wandered through a lot recently about some of the cars and trucks and other vehicles that I saw on the road ...
It's funny, I can think of a point maybe 10-15 years ago where Hawaii was Hondaville -- all these reasonably sized, priced, mileage wise cars -- I mean, I would have called it almost reasonable and almost sustainable in some financial sense
Now, I drive into town and it's definitely 40-50% Esuvees and trucks -- and why? Because we are all pig hunters on the weekend? -- need to lug around that big haul from Costco? -- I mean are we a stupid species? ...
I remember from my childhood, there was a period where you could only buy these poor handling, gas guzzling, large American cars -- and you know what, at least in Hawaii, for a short time, we adjusted -- bought the Honda, went with reliable and good gas mileage -- I don't know maybe the kids of this generation were stupid or weren't paying attention -- ooh, nice rims
When did we become a place of posers (letting what we have become more important than becoming decent people)
How do you buy a $40,000+ truck or SUV when the stats (God Bless the Census, their work couldn't be wrong, could it?) say it almost costs more than what half the families make in a year in GROSS -- how do these places extend credit to these guys in good conscience, you'll be paying for it long after the useful life has concluded
And yes, I know people with 20-30K on their several, many credit cards ... ok
And they own houses with mortgages, and they don't make a shitload of paper
Homes and condos
The price of buying something nowadays on this island -- again, I ask who are these people that are buying high -- do they not know the lesson of the cycle -- we saw the trough 99-00-01 -- it's called foreclosure and bankruptcy -- or perhaps I am stupid to assume that the stats are right, and only the people on the high end of the income scale are buying ... or these faceless mainlanders with money are moving us all up and out ... oh no, all this growth will grow salaries and personal income -- umm yeah, sure ... I'm sure you just missed the perpetual annual trophy in the Governor's office for highest cost of living, lowest wages
Are you kidding me? LOL -- so I ask again, and maybe it's because I naively think real estate and banking are somehow independent of each other -- they are not -- and again in a few years bad mortgages will put many of these buys up for hock, and all these people will move in with their parents or to the beach
Is this a way to run a railroad?!?!?!?
This place is changing, and I would not say for the better -- oh and by the way, the remaining amount of Oahu's fresh water supply ... LOL that's something for another day I suppose, as I owe and off to work I go ...
I have no answers to these issues, I pray that people who can make critical decisions that impact these issues -- will actually open their eyes and see the falls coming
March 5, 2005
(M)useless
Well, I have some stuff to edit and reorg before Monday -- just museless -- I believe it's called writer's block -- I think it's part that, and part being tired seeing the same thing 80000x of projects that go on-and-on for months
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On the other hand, in pretty exciting news, a group of us are going to norah -- that should be hella cool
I was watching the Moore is God news last night and I realized something -- I'm not in their demographic -- I mean, do they send cameras to cover the shows that I go to, uh no -- but they send cameras to go cover The (Morrison-less and drummer-less) Doors show -- um yeah, I'm not a Boomer, I don't think that that is newsworthy or even remotely cool -- even though I think The Doors music is pretty good
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While I was flipping around stations last night, I came to the full length NH service show -- and I must say, it's a well produced variety show, very entertaining, a little light on the message -- but the entertainment value is very high
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Oh well, hopefully some divine inspiration rubs off on me to put this baby to bed
February 27, 2005
Crazy Place
AkA the destruction zone that is Waikele Sports Authority on a Sunday
I dunno, maybe I'm not as hardcore a Sunday paper reader -- perhaps there was a 99 cent sale that I wasn't aware of
Was just looking for a pair of comfortable heavily rubberized sandals to wear with the big fat brace I have to wear on my ankle -- found them, after wandering through several moshpits of people buying shoes particularly for their kids
Now think about this, are kids shoe sizes getting BIGGER -- or is it just starting them out in adult sizes earlier -- I don't remember wearing men's sizes at such young ages as what I saw today
Maybe I dunno, how to read signs -- LOL
The other funny thing is the slowness of checkout people at SA -- any SA -- it makes people jump through 4 or 5 lines trying to get to a better line, like their life would be so much better by shaving 3 seconds off their checkout time -- Today, I would chalk it up to the parents in line -- there's something about trying to con sales clerks that something was ACTUALLY in the insert vs. thrown into there by some sale seeking radical who cares not about properly putting shit back on the shelf
Lem.
February 26, 2005
Nobody knows
Okay, so people give gifts of select cuts of meat during the holidays -- yes, and it's a really great gift no doubt about it
Okay, but who knows how to cook a prime rib?
Upon further review, I would say no one -- yes, you slow roast it for a long time for all the prime rib goodness reasons
However, when looking at sources such as the Food Network site, there are many chefs each with many different ways to do it -- now by different, I don't mean seasoning and garnish ...
I mean essential stuff like TEMPERATURE and TIME --- I could care less whether it is made plain with au jus or garlicked up and seasoned -- I would rather it be A) cooked in other words NOT COLD after supposedly being in a powered oven for 3 hours; B) not be overdone and useless for everything but shoe leather products
Prime Ribs ... a choose your own adventure cooking experience
February 25, 2005
On Day 57
I have read a full text copy of our new Mayor's first state of the city address -- and I was left with a few questions
Although the blame game is quite clear through a substantial portion of the text -- I have always wondered how far does the traditional concepts of raising fees and looking to hire more, improve deteriorating facilities, and maintain the quality of existing facilities
Anyways here are my questions -- doesn't fixing sewers mean ripping up roads usually -- I mean, they are mostly not in areas that aren't covered with pavement -- so fix sewers equals perhaps fucking up traffic -- ok, it's time for sacrifices on all our parts not to take dumps and pee infrequently or else face the wrath of traffic in our pursuit of bodily comfort -- an odd but probable consequence
Okay, potholes suck -- but to regularly maintain the road like in 1989 -- all I can think is that more crews on the roads means, well more traffic, doesn't it? I mean, I'm fascinating watching the slow roller roll back and forth -- while I do not roll on the street alongside large trucks and SUVs
Dumping -- you know, I had always thought that the whole abandoned vehicle, dump the washing machine thing was only an outlying area problem -- well, no no not anymore -- while I was at training last week in the Ala Moana area, I saw three corners that were piled high with household crap like DOORS -- DOORS?!??!?, stovetops, washing machines, busted woodpieces, several pieces of McD rubbish -- yeah, there's bulky item pickup and then there's people who should throw their rubbish away properly -- but hey, more bulky item pickup in the early morning -- you know what that means, yes yes, what I love the most, trucks and other large service vehicles on the freeway along with you during the commute -- beautiful
Okay, so far, our mayor has proposed three ways to increase traffic headaches -- although in the long term, you would like to flush, you would like to stop getting alignments and popped tires fixed every month, and you don't like all this crap put out with legit bulky item refuse
Okay, so short term traffic is obvious -- but like with all the ideas to reduce traffic in this speech, like a ferry, mass transit, buses, moving stuff out to Kapolei, etc. -- well, do you really think with all the cars driving every morning with a substantial % of them with ONLY ONE passenger, the driver -- that all of a sudden these people will see the error of the ways -- in other ways, how they are adding to their own misery -- and join in the mass transit solution
Call me stupid but I think people are more selfish than practical
In the end, I think the speech got across the idea that there's a lot of work to be done due to some misplaced priorities in the past ADM -- that I do not disagree with -- the part that was kind of hard to swallow was this continued implied you should have elected me last time bullcrap that doesn't do anything except make the speech longer by 15 minutes
I think the way we measure our new mayor is on how life here in the city doesn't make obvious to us the problems of it -- smooth driving, the arrival of emergency response when we have emergencies -- the ability to flush away our logs of waste -- it's certainly not glamorous, I guess that's why I wonder why anyone wants to be a part of city government
February 24, 2005
The Fall (Flightless Humans)
Humans cannot fly -- I do not know why
I inadvertently tried to fly today
I did not get far at all
In fact, I quickly plunged
To the concrete below
My message to you is
Either walk or fly
But do not do both
Because you could injure yourself like me
February 22, 2005
Ever Ready
Or are you ever ready to go back to work after a long weekend?
It's a funny thing but today I was ready to go back to work -- not that I had anything pressing or exciting to do -- It just felt like time to go back to work
And go back to what? I worked on one thing all day -- yes all 8 consumed by one thing ... so I dunno, perhaps I am getting odd
-------
I had a funny feeling this evening of what should I do? Like I was lost or something -- decided to watch for the first time TROY and then go work out
My initial impressions of the first 30 minutes or so are that if wars started over meaningless crap like that ... -- the other thing I thought was where is the wonder in this thing, I mean, this is a legend, how come everyone's acting like they should either get a therapist or have a therapist -- too introspective, too stiff so far -- I want bigger than life, bold, daring, imagination capturing... we shall see, and post a review sometime this week, time permitting
February 21, 2005
The Mystery of Shoes
Athletic footwear -- I simply do not understand how this stuff gets sized
I suppose I can guess that European footwear, or those boxes that have like 50 different sizes in a grid on a box are cut smaller and longer
Nikes generally seem to be cut wide to begin with -- and funny but I took out some extra wides and there didn't seem to be any difference -- weird
And then you have the OVER-aesthetization of footwear -- I mean, reflective, metallic, futuristic, breathable, colorful, etc. -- I feel like nothing I could possibly wear would match the shoes -- I was saying to SD how many of the pairs seemed like space boots or funk boots/KISS boots from the 70s
At the end of the day, I found a reasonably priced, reasonable looking pair for .50 -- and that was pretty amazing to me, seeing how most pair start at over 70
February 18, 2005
Free Dumb Of Speech
(To paraphrase Pink Floyd) For I have become ... Patriotically Dumb
Ok, have you watched some of these crash TV style interview shows, primarily on FOX News -- although MSNBC and CNN is now copying the format
You know, get this controversial guest, and then have the host ask them "tough questions" -- or just lambast or insult them ala Shill O'Lielly --- like shushing down and yelling down someone is just SO intellectual and SO patriotic
Well, perhaps the most controversial ethnic studies/political theorist is coming to town next week -- he has gotten totally flamed in the press and media because he described some of the victims of 9/11 as similar to the technocrat who executed the (capital letters) holocaust
All I'm saying is -- does the media really give a shit -- or is this just crash TV to get ratings -- and in a very stupid USA! USA! USA! way
Having read the book in question, I have to say that the guy is trying to make some comparisons to Arendt's thesis on the banality of evil -- in other words, evil people don't live on the top of the mountain and cackle and plan revenge against a childhood foe -- it could be you or me, it could be what we do, we may not even think about how what we do might affect someone else -- it's just asking us to think about how things affect other things, how our nation affects things elsewhere in the globe,
And obviously think about what we do -- like hey, man I'm a patriot, I'm above questioning man, I couldn't possibly be evil -- no way LOL
That's the point -- it's not about the growingly "untouchable" events of 9/11 -- so this whole grill this guy on the coals and call him unpatriotic, evil, etc. -- is all just banging the drums of the war, asking us all to just comply, lulling into this complacency where we should never think anything except EVIL EVIL EVIL about 9/11
(ed. note: Sunday, read that the UH president is coming out against this guy too -- but like oh, it's free speech -- Yeah, but who are we protecting free speech for when we are all DUMB and we just close our minds to new ideas about seminal events in history)
February 17, 2005
Too Smart
For your own good ...
There is a show that SD and I watch on Fox pretty regularly -- it makes me laugh when I read some interviews by the writers and production of the show
They're like oh, we have to do this to promote the longevity of the show -- oh, we have learned from some other show (that had a 10+ year run)
Well, wake-up call to that team -- your show isn't even 2 years old, it isn't even a 1-1/2 years old -- and you don't spend enough time with your "primary" characters and primary relationships -- all you are doing is confusing and frustrating the hell out of your viewership, which is dwindling and dwindling and dwindling
Lame.
February 16, 2005
Happy Birthday
Happy XXXth to SD --
May your birthday wishes come true
February 15, 2005
There's Aloha and then
There's overstaying your welcome
Today may have been the most useless long winded training seminar that I have ever been to in my working life
I should have known it -- it had all the classic signs of uselessness: the guy who has been coming back here for 25 years; what is he doing now? oh, consulting; some bigshot in governmental before; etc. etc.
Talk about airmailing it in -- 8 FULL HOURS -- of stuff that he could have easily covered in 2 or 3 -- a lot, and I mean, A LOT of anecdotes -- It was like listening to your drunk not-so-much friend at a bar go on and on
The simple joy of this is that I get to do it again tomorrow for 8 more hours
(ed. note 2/16: He did it again)
February 14, 2005
What is supposed to be
So anyways, today was another VsD
Actually fairly uneventful -- I would say that today was a very low stress VsD -- I'm glad it has become this way because SD and I seem to have a meeting of the minds on stuff related to it
It is interesting when someone asks you -- so are you guys going out to dinner later -- I mean, like are we supposed to? -- or, oh what did you get SD? -- well, not much really
It's like VsD has become XM2 -- and not even two months later -- I think that it is possible to be a VsD scrooge, too -- but like I think if you only wait until this day to do stuff for the people that are supposedly your partners in life -- that's something about being in sad shape
We spent the evening at tennis -- ho hum, just the way we like it
February 13, 2005
Observations
We spent a pretty much uneventful day today -- overall it was very relaxed
We made it out to the baseball game this afternoon. It struck me how there are perhaps an over-proportionate number of older local J fans
So I told SD, I think we should age about 30 more years before we go to see another baseball game
In the very small world category we sat behind one of the secretaries from the Senate -- and playing the six degrees game -- she is the secretary for the office that janitor's 9k works in -- chit chat, chit chat small place this place
UH lost 3-2 ... back to the drawing board, it seems like they don't know how to play small ball -- and the park is totally smallballville
MAHALO
It is very easy to say that I have just logged one of the TOP 5 performances that I have ever seen live last night
Jason Mraz live at the Hawaii Theatre was a really fun night of witty asides, great acoustic performance, and one of the most dynamic voices in the music industry bar none
SD and I were talking today -- and that's the best way we can put it -- his CD is like almost overproduced in terms of levelling his vocals with the band -- but live, DAMN -- that is a colorful, vibrant voice
It is performers like him who generate a snob factor in me about things like American Idol and the other overproduced hit maker cut out types -- I mean, you see mercurial talent and you just go damn, I have seen a higher level, higher gear that most musical artists do not have
His enthusiasm is infectious as well -- I think one of the primary reasons that I liked it so much was the mastery -- the IT factor -- you know it when you see it ... I liked the other performers on the bill, too -- Makana, brilliant instrument player and technician -- Tristan, great voice, interesting songs ... but you just can't match them up with what Mraz brings in terms of the total and complete entertainment factor
So count me among the converted, Mraz live is just amazing -- makes me actually think about heading to Kauai next weekend to check out his show
The Setlist (might be slightly out of order)
Gypsy MC
Common Pleasure
Warming Up
You & I Both
The Remedy (I Won't Worry)/Curbside Prophet
Shy That Way (w/ Tristan Prettyman)
Geek in the Pink
Unfold (w/ operatic Tiny Bubbles Sunday improv)
Sleeping to Dream
I'm Yours
Reflections (w/ Makana)
What It Takes
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Oh btw, I've been living off of the live internet archives search engine -- which has tons of acoustic Mraz, much of it really amazing high quality stuff
http://www.archive.org
I've been able to find all of the songs performed live at HT last night (at different venues of course) -- I'm on the lookout for those sneaky fux who might have got last night's show -- I hope so
February 12, 2005
Time flies
At the time of my last entry, I had got the Mraz tickets -- well tonight is the show -- so much for keeping up with journal entries this spring ...pssh
In the past two weeks, I had the exotic flu for a whole week -- this year's version is really fun because you get a fever that doesn't break for 4-5 days
Since I had some down time, I was able to watch a few DVDs and listen to some music that was piling up -- I may back fill a bit of the gap with stuff, observations, reviews, and other stuff
February 2, 2005
Changing of the Tastes
Or pedestrian efforts (and giving stuff second and third chances)
As I know I have to clear off the piles of audio on my shelves, by eBay and other means, I've decided to take listens and re-listens and salvage some tracks for the iP
I bought the most recent Killing Joke CD (self-titled) -- at the end of the day, I sit here pondering why -- I haven't really picked up anything from them since their Millenium effort over a decade ago
I never got around to writing a review of it, I don't think I shall here, either.
Either my tastes have profoundly changed or this effort from KJ is really kind of scattered and at best mediocre -- at the end of the few spins, I found about 3-4 songs were tolerable, and none of which really grabbed me
On that note, happy groundhogs day -- as the winter of my tasteless discontent continues -- and HB 3.5 to janitor
January 25, 2005
What happened
You know, for a very long time I was boycotting 80s music
Not a strict boycott, like I would go to shows and stuff -- but in general, you wouldn't catch me listening to the Q or just 80s stuff
I guess to me, it had it's run and it wasn't really time for it to come back even if now on tv -- they sell best of the 90s stuff
Well, I guess I've fully turned the corner on it -- not in a nostalgic way -- but in a way where I'm rediscovering some of the stuff is still pretty fresh sounding to me even after all this time
It must be partly because of the new retro movement in new music -- but also listening to Pirate Radio and Club 977 on iTunes Radio
Either way, I'm really enjoying work a whole lot more with the "soundtrack of my life" -- HA!
ooh they're playing FAME now ... hahahahahaha
January 24, 2005
Ass Draggin' Drudgery
Was totally unmotivated today
Not tired, not like I didn't have stuff to do -- or keep myself busy at work
Just blah
----
Guess what happens when you don't play tennis for a month+ and then try again -- yep, launched satellites -- it turns into an endeavor of go fetch the lost balls -- sounds like my golf game, too
January 22, 2005
No Longer
Waiting for the rocket to come
Finally, Mraz will play a show here -- actually a total of 3 in the islands -- I also kinda like that he isn't playing it at Pipeline -- it's at Hawaii Theatre -- in three weeks on the 12th -- on Pro Bowl weekend
Awesome news!
---
We have decided to pass on the Lisa show tonight -- I guess at the end of the day, it kinda does matter that you are familiar with where places are, no?
At 28 bucks and since we saw her not too long ago, well ... even though it might have been cool to listen to some of the new songs of her great new one
January 21, 2005
At the end of the week
It's funny but -- have you ever felt totally deflated by the end of a work week -- seems to be a common feeling lately -- just tired and flat tonight
January 20, 2005
Completely Utterly
Under the radar ... I found out from Janitor that LL is playing here on Sat -- sheesh, as of late, Lisa has seemingly shunned the usual p.r. route -- I mean, who knew she had a cooking show with DZ, a new album, a show here in town -- man, she is stealth
January 19, 2005
The Pain of Editing
Well, I have another week to look forward to going to work and doing review editing -- it keeps you busy, but man, is it tedious
January 18, 2005
Where Do I Sign Up for
EFT to Apple???
sheesh, this all consuming iTunes and iPod -- and all the new cool shit that they are putting out soon -- might as well just sign the check over
January 17, 2005
A plague on modern life
Poor supervision
And tedious, numbing work
January 14, 2005
The Leg
And no, I don't mean the lower extremities of one's body
It hadn't struck me since the last time I took a hiatus from the leg -- but since I walked around with SD helping her do a project
I realized that leg workers are like Jason or Freddy -- they disappear from one place only to emerge and some other place -- it's like coaches in the NFL are the same as leg staff
You can't kill them, they'll pop up in some other office -- the lifers, amazing how many leg people turn into lifers
January 13, 2005
Odd things about late night
Ok, so I survived graduation last night -- it really seemed as if many were WAY more excited than I was about it -- but hey, whatever
It's a funny thing when you have a graduation on a week night in Hawaii -- yeah, exactly -- where do you eat at afterwards when it is like 9:30 at night
Well, we found out a few things -- you can eat at one of those all-night korean bbq yakiniku places or Zippys -- many of the other finer eateries don't take reservations past 9:00-9:30
So we ended up at Morton's -- they take reserves until 11 PM -- why they do that, I don't know -- we were the only people there besides this rowdy loud vulgar general manager of M's table
Upon further review, M's is good -- I think I prefer Ruths Chris overall
Long night ... longer yesterday
January 12, 2005
The joys of pronunciation
It's a very funny thing, I decided to go to graduation practice today and take a day off of work
Well, many hours later after arriving at the shell -- I realized one thing, number one, man it's hot to sit on the deck in chairs in the midday sun -- number two, the effort to pronounce names while in africa hot sun is not too fun
Almost makes me not want to go back later tonight from heatstroke ... ha, man
January 11, 2005
I just wish
Sick people would stay home from work
Yeah, Typhoid man has struck and has got us all sick from being at work yesterday -- today he's out sick
Today, the rest of us are all sick -- man ...
January 10, 2005
Randomity
In a moment of go figure, the People's Choice award for best film was Fahrenheit 9/11 -- so where were these people two months ago?
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Heard the new single from the re-re-reformed Crue --- "Die Tomorrow" sounds a lot like a nu-metal style ballad --- The thing that stands out about it is the lack of heaviness from the drums -- and the really odd tinny voice coming from Vince -- methinks his voice is shot
-----
The other thing I found out today was that Dave of Megadeth said this is the last year of MD -- well, it's hard to call something MD when it is just Dave, then again Dave is MD, right? -- I believe somewhere there is a Dave Jr. that would dispute this -- it's called friends, got them?
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Earlier last year, I may have thought that Mraz or Hot Hot Heat ran away with the best album of last year -- however, I find that I continue to grow in my love for Hot Fuss by the Killers. Really great music with a kinda retro vibe
January 9, 2005
Poor attitude
It's funny -- you know I never thought of things like -- oh I'll help out with my parents -- but oh no, not with my grandparents because none of the other cousins help out
that's just GD lame -- I don't want to say anything else lest I tread down the dangerous road of stereotypes -- sometimes I just don't get Hs
January 7, 2005
Meet the Fockers REVIEW
I wasn't a tremendously big fan of Meet the Parents, but I liked it well enough -- thought that parts of it were pretty hilarious (SD is a bigger fan, she owns it on DVD)
Sometimes they say that you shouldn't complain if something is free ... well I saw MTP tonight for free -- and although I'm not complaining, I didn't think that it was all that good
To put it simply, it just wasn't funny -- for all the acting talent on the screen, and they all gave really excellent performances -- it would literally take something who IN ACTUALITY and not theory laughed at everything to totally love this film
I suppose that the key to the original movie was awkward situations -- in many ways, that is the key to these movies that come from the bloodline of the "TSA Mary" modern day goofy movies
The awkward situations just weren't that funny, in fact some of them were just painful and awkward -- there were a handful of people in the theatre who laughed at almost everything hysterically -- I think the rest of us either liked it well enough or found it tolerable (because of the good acting)
It's not a drama though, it's supposed to be funny -- where I thought MTP the original was a B+/A- ... MTF is more along the lines of Dodgeball or Anchorman, it has some laughs but overall, there's no continuity besides the following the plot premise to its logical end
I don't think I was expecting more ... but it was more tolerable than funny, and usually I would apply that description to poorly scripted romantic comedies than out and out comedies --- I think it's a C-/C, but YMMV
January 6, 2005
THANK YOU
Thank you for making me feel represented in government
Those who stood up for democracy today and stopped the certification of the Electoral College
Those who stood up for the people's right to vote and have their vote counted
�
Even against ridicule, mischaracterization, and other attempts to squelch true debate about voting irregularities in Ohio --
�
I don't understand how people cannot get past partisanship to see the challenge for what it was -- a debate about protecting our fundamental right to vote and to promote confidence in free and fairly elected government
�
Thank you Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones, Sen. Barbara Boxer, Rep. John Conyers, the Congressional Black Caucus, and all others who stood today in defense of our rights to participate freely and fairly in our government
January 5, 2005
Wayyy beneath the radar
Ok, so tomorrow is that pro forma part of the election
You know, where the electors cast the votes to seal it up for El Busho
Well, in the most underreported story ever, apparently the House challengers of the Ohio electoral vote have a Senator to send both houses into debate about election improprieties
Remember, in 2001, no Senator signed with the Congressional Black Caucus about election irregularities in Florida
Well, I'm not holding my breath this time
But you would think -- well, indulge me, that these 'representatives' of ours would give a damn because we voted them in
and that's the key, VOTED -- it seems very common sense, that they would all be highly interested and motivated in seeing that our voting system is protected and respected by the people
That's what the whole in order to build a more perfect Union stuff is about -- it's a work in progress, it's not meant to be taken for granted
January 3, 2005
Misc This and That
It's funny that in the age of repeated syndication, it is easy to underrate the importance and ultimate funny-ness of Seinfeld
Well, I got a chance to watch some old seasons over the past two weeks, and the stuff still holds up and is very very funny -- whatever happened to the sitcom nowadays
----
I saw a picture today about the church service for our new mayor -- it seems as if every denomination was invited -- I guess the Krishnas were just outside the frame -- nott -- it's funny, it's like God is on our side because my supporters are men of God -- ODD!
----
I'm really enjoying music by this pop group called Keane -- the voice of the singer eerily reminds me of Freddie from Queen -- the music is a bit lower powered, but full of catchy hooks -- kind of reminds of the poppish era of Q in the early 80s
----
note to coach of Aubbie -- your shameless begging is getting pretty old, lame, and retarded -- a three point victory is exactly that, it's not a dominant performance
January 2, 2005
What ever happened to quiet
Ok, so I understand that our newly elected Mayor had to take office by today
And yes, I understand that city hall was not available because of the XM decorations
Here's where they lost me, they did an official swearing to give him the powers, then he has a big bash using city property
The funny thing is, there will be another inaug on Weds. -- and yes, they're gonna swear him again (although the effect is lame and legally worthless)
I do know one thing about the dude so far, the guy can throw a mean party -- too bad not a lot of peeps show
January 1, 2005
Happy New Year
Halfway through the 00 decade, wow
Akemashite Omedetoo Gozaimasu
Best wishes to all on a safe, healthy, and prosperous new year
December 31, 2004
Because having it on the weekend
Is hard
This holiday season has been pretty rough -- no, not financially -- not because there is drama and crises in my life
I guess it's selfish to say, but I would like my weekend back
The weekend is when I would like to unwind and not have like a lot of stuff that I must do -- having the holidays over the weekends this year has just made it seem like you have to be ON and you have to go here and there, and do this and that -- no choice
ooh, back to work again Monday -- where is my weekend? -- I want my weekend back
December 29, 2004
My new fix
During downtimes at work, I have been listening to internet radio
The radio station that I am digging tremendously is Virgin Radio from the UK
It has turned me on to Damien Rice -- turned me back on to Jeff Buckley after not listening to him for years -- I have a feel of the new U2 album, seems real promising -- and rediscovering bands that I was listening to earlier this year, like Snow Patrol, Franz Ferdinand, Keane
Cool find, worth a listen
December 28, 2004
Emo 2.0
Just some thoughts on the nu-emo movement
I don't get it -- it's a bit too slow and not that musically interesting to me
I found that the music from the Fox teen drama show tends to be heavy
with this stuff -- especially on its released soundtracks
I do however love the new retro stuff, go figure
December 27, 2004
Under the radar
It's quite interesting -- the story that will never die on the blogs is the Ohio recount
Now there are stories about contractors teaching recount peeps how to cheat with prefabbed printouts, software engineers coming forward saying Rs bought them off, and questionable programming practices that made Bush the default, a mindblowingly simple Y/N function that obviously makes no sense in the voting machine biz
Oh yeah, seems like Kerrito is slowly by slowly UNCONCEDING -- to me, I would have preferred it if he just stayed in until he was satisfied rather than seem as if he wanted the country to move on -- all the while, moving under the radar and playing tagalong with the green and lib recount movement
I support the guy, but still -- can you unfold in poker
December 26, 2004
Back to it so soon, so soon
Yeah, pretty unrestful last weekend
Pssh, holidays on the weekend suck
December 25, 2004
Merry XM
Happy holidays to my friends and family
Worldwide peace to all
War is over, if you want it
Hallelujah
December 24, 2004
This Crazy Time o' Year
Aside from the wondrous traffic and hectic pace
I have found some things that make the holiday season pretty cool
iTunes ...
Real LOUD
December 23, 2004
Crazy Day
Ok, so after lunch on my half day today -- I decided to venture to the mall for the first time this XM season
It was a dumb move
It's funny because I went to a few places and it seemed like people were buying more for themselves than for others
XM -- this year -- not into it
At all
December 22, 2004
Grinch sighting
I don't remember if I wrote about how I thought it was so weird that the mayor gave us two half days -- then the very next day, Mr. Okazuya book said the same thing
What I did find odd is that Zia Zifle has decided not to give half days to the staters -- oh no, it couldn't be that she is still bitter from the ass whuppin the Rs took in November -- mad at the yoon-yons -- hey, take away half days at XM and NYr's
Some coattails -- beware Who-Ville.
The grinch lives
December 21, 2004
Just stupid
And so begins my boycott of the purple and yellow
You know, although it may largely be about Kobe 8 -- I just don't get a lot of the moves done by the ownership and Mitch the crappy GM
There does come a point where you test your fan's patience -- that point has long been passed
boycott!
December 20, 2004
Documentary Evening
I saw a Greg Palast documentary about money and W's family -- and the thing is, I just wonder what good is it that I and a few others know -- and are appalled by it all
Yet so many others couldn't really care less -- in fact, let's nominate the guy and his family for the saints and all-around helpful community members that they are
Psshh
December 19, 2004
Every year
It seems like every holiday season there is this hot toy that everyone wants, and would kill members of their own family to have -- or at least sell them into personal slavery
This year its the MarioCorp DS -- and I guess nowadays I'm so out of the loop about these things that I guess short of having chil'lun I will just be so out of it
----
#Dos -- who are these people that wait so long to buy XM trees? I heard on the radio on my ride home tonight that ArkyCorp was selling trees for $200+ bucks -- lemme see, with 5 days to go, yeah I want a tree now
I guess you keep it up til February -- or maybe you just go, hey, $200, that's a full tank o' gas, padna
December 18, 2004
We do Scallops right
It's kind of interesting to me that I can think of only one place that does scallops right -- well, at least to my buds
Too bad they can't do a steak right
December 17, 2004
25 years is a long time
So I was thinking, you know the Red Sox fans had a 86 year wait between titles -- now that's a LONG TIME -- in fact, most of the fans had not been alive for the whole duration
Well, with my team, I have been alive for the whole 25 year drought -- and it's weird because every year when you go, okay, we'll get it next year -- it's like time is passing and passing and passing
Yes 12/13 looks hella good -- but we have been here before -- so anyways, before I die -- ha
December 16, 2004
Who cares
I seek a greater appreciation on why it is that we should care about the content of our entertainment
Case in point, on a show that I do not watch because I think it is particularly hokey to be entertained by people trying to win a job -- loyal viewers seem to care about who wins, who loses each week
Ultimately, I suppose it has all got to me -- all of this I would like to bare my shit on TV stuff has got to me -- not only because it is indicative of how far people want to go to achieve some level of fame -- but because of the lack of dignity that is displayed by these people -- and holding up the mirror, the lack of dignity of the viewers who essentially enjoy watching people have real life and not contrived blowouts
I don't get it
December 15, 2004
Is it important
Customer service?
It has struck me now that a certain member of a local printing shop nearby -- has such limited CS skills that I wonder why it is that she continues to be employed by the store
I suppose that there is a measure of something to be said about the ability to technically operate duplicating and other publishing machines -- but maybe you should hide these people from the counter
I know that at the end of the day, it is a McJob -- and the highest quality of people are never employed in that role -- but still, given that she has poor CS, poorly relates to others on her shift -- man, she must run a mean xerox machine
December 14, 2004
Giving gifts on XM
Where does it start, and when does it end?
I seem to remember while growing up that not only my parents gave me gifts but that my relatives did also
Then one year, one of my relatives on my mom's side I guess popped the balloon, and we no longer exchanged presents with them -- The same thing happened on my dad's side but much later
It had always puzzled me for many years as to why that relative wanted to stop it -- I think I understand better now
It can really get endless -- and by endless I mean that all of a sudden you are buying stuff for people including co-ws, neighbors, the postal guy -- not even talking about the more obvious people who we commonly gift like relatives, good friends, etc
It's like we gift in anticipation that someone will gift us -- or we gift because we don't want to hurt somebody's feelings
A funny thing seems to happen along the way, people drop the ball -- I've dropped the ball, too -- and it's like sheesh, when did this start, and of course how does this end
When taken to logical extremes you go, gee I get one gift yet I have to buy multiple gifts -- or in some bizarre way you start keeping track of the value of stuff and going -- well gee, I don't want to cheap someone on their gift, they did give me a gift in this value ballpark
And the best one is when you actually take the time to get someone something -- then for a series of years they don't get you anything -- I mean, what do you think about that? Do you go, oh gee, I have friends with no conscience -- or do you go shit, why are we buying each other stuff in the first place -- at this point??? why
It's so crazy
December 13, 2004
And on Monday
So I was perplexed today by what seemed like one of my co-ws trying to snow me -- you know, there's like collaborating to do something and then there's snowing someone into doing more than their share
Snow is pretty deep today -- I live in Hawaii, there's not supposed to be snow
Go figure
December 12, 2004
There are some things
I won't ever get
I went to the JBR last night with SD, her family, and they brought the pets along
The first thing I don't really get are the people who really go overboard with the XM stuff -- I don't mean people who have a deep belief in its significance related to human charity and giving OR the birth of a messiah either
I mean those people who treat Xm as if it were Halloween -- some would call it getting in the Xm spirit -- I call it, stop mixing Halloween with Xm
I would say get a life -- but I just don't get it
----
The other thing I don't really get is how it is in some living situations where people eat separately from one another
Call me nostalgic or sentimental, but I think if you eat with someone that you can build good bonds with them
When people live together and don't eat together, what is that? -- that's almost like living with your co-workers -- Oh, going to lunch now -- Oh, going to dinner now, be back soon
Nah, why don't you keep walking -- you don't seem to care enough to spend time bonding during a natural time for it -- everyone has to eat, so why not share the time and build bonds
December 11, 2004
Teahouses and such
I went to a family luncheon at a pretty famous teahouse in town today
The format is pre-selected kaiseki menu -- but man, the rules -- so much rules that I wonder why it is that the place doesn't just perform the service
For example, why discretely charge for water -- I don't know about a $ per person charge for water -- if anything, it will piss off your customers so just build the charge in
Dos, I know that BYOD is a way to cut down the need for things like a liquor license and controlling a beverage inventory -- but geesh, if you're gonna go full service on the food -- to me, I think that means go FS on the beverages as well
It's like going to a restaurant and cooking your own food -- why am I paying you when I am doing all the work -- why am I going a place where I have to supply part of my refreshment
Odd
December 10, 2004
Good run
Congratulations on a really unexpectedly great WVB season at UH -- it's kind of too bad that today a few things got exposed in the 5-game loss -- the CW is that they are young and will be very good for years to come -- looks like it
December 9, 2004
Training day 2
After another pretty long training session today, it didn't seem like I would be all that tired -- however when I came home, I was pretty exhausted
Watched some stuff on DVD tonight, I have noticed that when I am exhausted I just can't focus on anything except falling asleep and letting the TV watch me rather than vice versa
December 8, 2004
Training Day 1
Day one of internal T -- there's something about training, it always seems to go long -- I think that I would like it if for once training was well within the time frame provided
I think that there is a great effort put out to train the noobs, and this comes from all this thinking about real life exp doing the job -- well, that always turns into story after story so -- in the end, the session goes overtime, or worse, stuff is skipped
ah well, live by the clock, die by the clock
----
You know, sometimes I go to the Pearl Kai to go to 24HF and work out -- what is always surprising to me is that there is never parking in the early evening in their parking lot
I can't really understand why, it's not like the gym is crowded or that they have so many shops and restaurants
December 7, 2004
The beach peeps
It has been awhile since I've been to AlaMB -- I think it really surprised me how many -- euphemistically speaking, beach people, there are
As we left the city complex over there, it was like a free for all of BPs staking out their territory and looking through their piles of property
It's kind of sad to see it like that, but it is interesting because they have their own kind of society -- it's like the beach morlocks or something
December 5, 2004
Now that's what I call
Service
It's really funny -- I never really wrapped my mind around how much money is in a certain local private educational trust -- let's just say that it is 30X the size of the UH foundation trust
So anyway, we went up to go play tennis today -- and it kind of amazes me how open they are to sharing their facilities -- I mean, if you went there EVER -- you can go today and use facilities
Not that really alot of people use them but still, access to world class facilities after you have been an alumni for 10+ years -- I guess you just really can be lax when you have 10s of billions of dollars in the bank
It was funny b/c SD was saying how they never had XM decorations on the campus greens -- well, there's like lighted sculptures now and big tropical looking banners
Yep -- ha
December 4, 2004
Day of Saturn
Not much to yak about today -- I went to a organizational meeting for a social event -- I find it very interesting how people really try to make sense out of having 600 people at a place -- here you are, what you do, what to do, where you go
As if chaos would ensue if rules were not dictated?
----
It was odd tonight on two fronts -- one was that we went to a very empty 24HF -- and man was it frigid -- sheesh, it was like an icebox in there since it was so empty
The other thing is that paradoxical show called the OC -- never was there more brilliant moments blended with moments where the acting is so bad that you go YIKES this acting is bad
----
They did it again
After looking thumped, UH decided to get the ball into the hands of CO for the second week in a row -- that makes 9 TDs in two weeks -- and another Big 10 team bites the dust
And I thought the Hawaii Bowl was dead -- well, let's see if 25K show
December 3, 2004
Nothing
You know, there's phasing in, and then there's doing nothing
I'm doing nothing
December 2, 2004
Taking it easy
AKA phasing it in
It's very unusual for me to be somewhere where it is actually meant that you are not supposed to come into play until the next cycle
Well, that's January -- so the chief goes take it easy -- that's phasing it in --
I guess I should read slowly, or else I might have problems with not falling asleep
December 1, 2004
Height of awesome inefficiency
I went today to an orientation -- it was basically one of those okay, you have to sign this and that, this and that, this and that
Normally when you just have to sign papers, you expect that it might take a few minutes -- maybe 15 tops
Well, not at certain places it's not
November 30, 2004
Interesting
I never thought about it this way until today -- but what seems important to the government is Who do we give your property to -- and how much tax can we collect from you
Well, when you're alive -- it's pretty clear -- it goes to you -- when you die, then you have to say Here give this to this person, or that person -- give my insurance to this person -- give this to
Interesting, it's just expected that you will always own something -- and then can give it away later
------
It seemed to me today while listening to the coach's show on the radio -- that he sure blows a ton of smoke and hype
I suppose that to some, that is his job -- I think it is also his job to tell the truth -- I honestly don't think that some of his claims are remotely reasonable -- and it's hard to hype a problematic team -- well not for him
Simple Ideas
I was reading something earlier on a Defense Department report on strategic communications -- I found it interesting because it echoed many of the critiques of our current policy of liberating Muslim states and fighting the war on terrorism
In short, here were the ideas:
THE PROBLEM IS NOT FINDING THE RIGHT MESSAGE, THE PROBLEM IS CREDIBILITY
Muslims do not hate our freedom, but rather they hate our policies.
American occupation of Afghanistan and Iraq has not led to democracy there, but only more chaos and suffering
The vast majority of Muslims object to the US's one sided support of Israel, and anti-Palestinian rights stance
The hypocritical and self-serving US policies which say they support democratizing and bringing freedom to Islamic countries -- while officially supporting and defending state tyrannies in Islamic states such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Pakistan, and in the Persian Gulf states
Unlike the 1980s paradigm that the Soviet bloc wanted to be liberated, there is no liberate us mentality in Arab countries -- yet the US still applies that model
American policy is not containment of terror -- it is seeking to convert Islamic civilization into accepting the value structure of Western Modernity
-----
I'm not holding my breath for this internal report to get read
Two Minutes to Midnight
Apparently, we didn't get the memo ... AGAIN -- The only way I can reconcile some of the things the government is doing in Iraq can only be described two ways -- extreme arrogance or even worse, intellectual sloth
In 1980, the UN banned the use of napalm -- funny, but only one nation refused to endorse this
Perhaps someone should explain this to the people in Fallujah
November 29, 2004
Oddly enough
It just strikes me as odd that every Monday evening, or more often than not -- it rains where we play tennis
Yes, I can leave my dry location and drive over to the tennis facility where -- yes, no surprise, it is raining again -- and it really doesn't matter what season it is, this past summer it was the same story, in fact it rained even more
Well, next week is the last week before an extended break -- hopefully it won't rain ... then again
November 28, 2004
Sunday of our Discontent
Well, today finally is Sunday -- have spent a great deal of today editing a long manuscript -- sometimes after you have edited something several times, it just becomes a game of losing perspective and little progress
We actually went to Ala M today -- I had an odd thought today that whoever planned A-M did not plan it well -- its like those Bugs Bunny future cartoons where everything gets built on top of itself in the future, and very little of it makes sense, or looks well designed
Hmm, just not into the retail XM thing -- bought very little at all -- waded through cross ped traffic for two hours -- in many ways, it's just not worth it
----
Where did this late afternoon monsoon come from -- man, the weather is odd lately
November 27, 2004
Saturday of Nada
This is the weekend where I think everyday is Sunday -- I just can't place what day it is on such long weekends
We watched some of The O.C. on DVD tonight -- and it is pretty middle of the road, mixed stuff -- I don't understand the hype -- then again, I'm not exactly in their target audience, now am I?
November 26, 2004
Black Friday
I don't know when they started to refer to the first day of the XM shopping season as Black Friday -- or perhaps I just haven't been paying attention
In recent years, I have totally avoided mall shopping for XM -- in fact, the whole XM rush thing seems very remote to my consciousness
----
Tonight we went to 24HF, this may have been the most understaffed that they have ever been since I can remember -- I guess everyone wants to stretch out their weekend, who can blame them?
Going to Jamba afterwards, I was struck by two notions -- number 1, this stuff is really expensive, like a fruity version of SB's or going out to buy ice cream from 31 or CS -- but number 2, a lot of the flavors taste pretty mediocre -- maybe I have a narrow palate, but sheesh, I think I only like 2 of the flavors
November 25, 2004
Happy Thanksgiving
I am thankful for my family, friends, and all who have helped and supported me this year and in years past -- I am also thankful of the blessings of support, friendship, and material comfort that I have been able to enjoy over the years of my life
thanks everyone
November 24, 2004
Stay in balance
It's been odd as of late that after I finally get colds in check -- my allergies go berserk for no reason -- It's such a delicate balance this health thing -- I just hope we can get back into balance soon, because antihistamines just make you feel dull and sleepy
November 23, 2004
Faith-based Euphemisms
We have a unique notion that's a part of our law of the land -- the err umm Constitution -- it's called the separation of church and state
This is supposed to protect us, da citizens -- from things like state sponsored religion -- it also keeps the government out of the religion business
Well, in the land where gay marriage is a no-no as long as you call it marriage -- we bring you faith based initiatives -- where it is okay to give federal money to churches so long as you don't call them church run day care or Christian youth social activities
So much of life nowadays is complex -- words and meanings are complex -- but I think that we can approach things in a way that is common sense rather than think that "things are different" just because they are packaged differently
It's like saying Pepsi is no longer Pepsi if it does not come in a R,W&B can -- it is what it is -- so just calling things by generic terms because we don't want to offend the separation and/or establishment clause -- well, it points to a stupid way to not acknowledge that we need to adapt nowadays
I am not mislead to think that these church based activities are not run without saving souls for God in mind -- or lose a Christian perspective -- so get real, this age of PC and don't ask, don't tell can get quite silly in its efforts to dress the elephant in sheep's clothing and pin the button on that says I am a Sheep
November 22, 2004
What I learned today
Tennis is a slow game --
Tonight was a fiasco and a terrible waste of time
November 21, 2004
Day of odds n ends
Two things that have defied my expectations so far this year -- the Steelers continuing their win streak with an ugly win at Cincy -- and the UH Wahine who are just at the end of the day A TEAM -- no superstars, no egos, just playing hard and winning for each other
I have this feeling that this year is the impossible dream -- the Wahine will bring home the title in a year that no one expected them to
-----
We saw the sequel to Bridget Jones today -- and it's an okay watch -- it's a fairly entertaining diversion -- I don't think it is as coherent or consistently funny as the first movie, but for a sequel with a very thin plot, it is good enough --- and good enough gets a B/B-
----
The aftermath of the Detroit fan apocalypse -- the suspensions have been handed out -- I don't think the sanctions are enough for the players -- I would like to hear that certain fans have been charged for assault and battery and that their season tickets were revoked and that they have been banned for life from attending events -- I still think the whole situation with fans getting involved is ridiculous, not only that fans think they can do shit to players just because they bought a ticket but also because of the level of security at these events -- which is never enough to prevent such things from escalating
And that is why every saturday night during football season when the home team is home -- the rust palace turns into fight club with the cops always having to mace someone -- sad and stupid
November 20, 2004
Behold the power
of Sudafed -- this is a miracle drug
The day after the Detroit Apocalypse fan incidents, I see that Carolina and Clemson decided to have a free range brawl this morning towards the end of their game -- did it have anything to do with last night's news coverage of the apocalypse? -- nahhhh, it couldn't be says mr. naive
---
I have yet to understand why our home team really stinks on the road -- in fact, the worst road season ever in terms of sheer blowouts -- even worse than the Von Mistake era
And on the other hand, they destroy teams at home -- if I could understand this team this year ... that is rhetoric of the highest order
On the other hand, I do appreciate why some people take it personal about the remarks of the coaching staff -- and feeling somehow mislead, and also feeling that the staff doesn't take responsibility, doesn't coach technique well -- is iconoclastic, adversarial, and total demagoguery
I think that people here are really nice and at times very trusting -- and that leads to at some level, a gullibility to believe in fish stories and other grand tales -- and I think that it partly comes from the second class inferiority to the "mainland" type complex -- so when a used car salesman from the nfl comes and spreads his propaganda about future success and status, people buy in and take it personal
Because us versus them is personal -- when the coach cannot understand why we feel "us versus them" -- it's almost like, sheesh, we believed you and you don't even understand what the hell we're about -- and worse, you lied to us, you overhyped things
As always, it always comes down to believe what you see, and trust what you feel -- something is rotten here -- and calling a seasonal average over six years of about 6-6/7-5 excellent is pure bullcrap -- it's no better or worse than what the best coaches have done here before
It's certainly not world shatteringly good -- I may be willing to admit that over time, that it might be the best our local team can do over any time period because there is no consistency in recruiting, coaching players to their full potential, coaching execution and technique, and just simple talent vs. talent
November 18, 2004
Here we go again
While listening to the Clinton's speech for the opening of his presidential library, I heard a news brief that Colin Powell had said to a conference in Chile that El Busho was headed to later today ---
IraN is developing missiles that can deliver WMDs
Is this why you resigned, "reluctant warrior"?
November 17, 2004
Is this what the future looks like
In day two of this low grade cold that is perhaps more annoying than debilitating -- I wonder whether this is what illness will be like in the future, all these little dinky ailments that no one knows what is or where it came from
Lame
November 16, 2004
Ze Rain and Windy
It perhaps was not very wise to go walking with SD in the breezy drizzle tonight -- actually we both have noticed some low grade sick symptoms in ourselves
You would think by now I would have developed some kind of wisdom about these things -- it never happens that I have low grade symptoms and then they go away the next day -- it always gets worse, yet I do not turn the activity level down to adjust
We shall see tomorrow
November 15, 2004
Question
When did MNF suddenly become a promo tool for ABC's primetime shows? -- I mean, is the football demographic the same as the Desperate Okusans demo?
It was pretty lame and I don't see why they decided to do THAT
T.O. -- I cannot think of a greater self promoter than T.O. -- from spiking the ball on the star, to the Sharpie incident, to the Ray Lewis dance imitation -- I dont get this guy -- admittedly he is a very talented athlete, yet he does all these shenanigans that make you scratch your head and go -- yeah you're great but sheesh cut out the antics
T.O. on the Desperate promo on ABC -- again, I feel my head needs a scratching
November 14, 2004
Coming apart
I spent half the day with SD today -- it was pretty cool and nice
The thing that surprised the heck out of me is how easy PCs get all out of tune -- by this I mean, it gets spyware, trojans, worms, highly fragmented -- all in a short period of time, and all by doing normal stuff that people use the computer for -- like surfing the net
I put their computer back into working order -- and again wonder aloud, why it is that people put up with this crap because if you don't do anything, your PC will shortly break down
November 13, 2004
Viewing Times
I have seen three different films in the past couple of days -- one about globalization, an older Michael Moore film about corporations and layoffs, and the Ethan Hawke-Julie Delpy chatfest sequel Before Sunset
Life + Debt
I saw Life + Debt -- a movie about globalization and Jamaica -- it was very weird because I noticed very obvious parallels between it and Hawaii -- I think that if Hawaii ever was independent in the present day, they would likely face the same problems as Jamaica does in the globalized economy
Essentially, you have a small economy that is well suited to sustain its own food, labor, and other needs -- yet it must participate in the global economy -- so even though it could produce its own milk, beef, bananas, etc. -- all of these things are brought in so that big nations have another market to sell them in -- and the local economy gets crushed -- except for the fact that it is a tourist paradise -- seems almost surreal that a place can have so much luxury on one side of it, and have so much economic dysfunction because agriculture is dying out -- and there are very few jobs except for service jobs -- sad
Before Sunset
In two weeks I have seen Before Sunrise and Before Sunset with SD -- where BSrise seemed to be a whole lot of chatting jackoff and one was struck that people do not talk that way or interact with each other with sentences as long as the Longines Symphonet -- Perhaps because we now have a context for the movie, BSset is more comfortable with having the chatting be a part of the story, drive the story, and ultimately define where the characters are NOW in their lives -- in many ways, this is a movie that 30-somethings would relate to very personally -- love, career, dreams, reality, sex, etc. -- the rush to live in the 20s gives way to life and it is both what was expected and what was not
BSset is almost a testament to the desperation of life -- looking always to the next horizon without living today -- a dialog on how desire really shapes how we live, act, are -- and how the absence of desire, consumption, romance, idealism is terrifying
It certainly is not as pretentious as the first movie -- in many ways it is the first darkly desperate slacker movie -- kind of a map check for where Gen X is on the road of life, even though on its face it is a romantic comedy
Michael Moore - The Big One
It is interesting to look at Michael Moore's work prior to his breakthrough Bowling for Columbine -- The Big One has many themes that came to roost in 2004 -- Filmed during the campaign of Clinton, Dole, Buchanan, and Perot, it shows many of the early signs of the growth of globalized corp America, the effects of moving jobs abroad, the loss of jobs, the rise of McJobs (actually this movie really takes Borders to task -- and knowing someone in my life, married with a kid, who relies primarily Bs for a check, it is sad to say that little has changed)
It really makes you think that okay, this movie was filmed in 1996 -- the apex of the Clinton boom years, the rise of the stock market, the dotcoms, etc. -- and yet the coming hangover had roots in that time -- and if anything, it seems like the hangover has worsened because of the economic approach of the Bush administration and government towards large corporations
Only makes me think how bad will it be 12 years after no marked corrections to deal with the human costs of this mad corporate dash to profits
November 12, 2004
Like the living dead
You know, this is the election that will not die -- I have read reports today -- no, not rumors on the Internets -- ha
Anyways, apparently North Carolina edges toward a throw it out re-vote because the electronic system is all screwed up -- in Ohio, two of the presidential candidates plan to apply for a recount, after the result is certified (huh? I thought it was, already) -- BlackBoxVoting is planning to project manage a recount of FLA -- NH is close to a recount with Nader partly leading the charge -- NV has some weirdness going on and is moving towards a recount
And the Kerry campaign yesterday issued a statement saying essentially the results are not in doubt
Should we care? Certainly the media doesn't want us to -- that's not to say, don't trust mainstream media -- when the only one covering the stories right now is ex-ESPNer Keith Olbermann on MSNBC, and some of the frustrated journalists in big media are waiting for him to break something so the floodgates can open up on this -- at the end of the day, it seems that media is gutless and worthless
I'm not saying this because I wish the national presidential election results to devolve into a quagmire -- quite the opposite, I just want this stuff to be put to rest because conspiracy theories serve no one well all of the time -- but when there are problems in states that could swing a close election, shouldn't there be some patience to discover what problems might exist, if any?
When exit polls have been discredited, and actual registered democrats in counties far outnumber Rs -- and then the vote totals come out overwhelmingly R -- it at least is a silent cry for a closer look, even if Jesusland carried the day
Things you forget about
I was sent an email today about my position in "line" for season tickets for the Redskins -- 103,954 -- It's funny because I had forgotten that I even went on the waiting list -- also, it has been so long that I even forgot why I put my name on the waiting list in the first place
November 10, 2004
Broke down
I finally broke down and bought some manga today that I've been idly paging through each time I go to Borders or Suncoast
Right now, I am splitting time between STONE and HELLSING -- Stone is not the greatest manga of the world, it's a tribute
No really, the artist did the Star Wars manga in Japan, and his style is like a washout literal Western style with the typical manga look -- looks real cool, the story is good, too
Same with Hellsing -- yes, there are some similarities to the Van of a similar sounding name -- the otaku in yamato must really like vampire hunting stories, one of the earliest I remember when I was younger was Vampire Hunter D -- Hellsing is kind of similar in overall concept, with lots of well illustrated action sequences -- good stuff
----
A couple of days ago, I finally willed my way through RING 2 -- It seems to me that there is a cultural divide in terms of my appreciation of this movie -- it goes like this, for some reason, Japanese dramas love to extensively use the flashback as a plot driving element
Now that I've seen 1 and 2 of the JPN version, I must say that it is an interesting premise -- it will sound familiar as Ju On and the American version of Ju On (The Grudge) makes its way across American psyches
I think that there are several key values in Japanese culture, one particularly strong one is of the family and maintaining close relationships with people (who mean a lot to you) -- these can be your boss, your friends, your parents -- the key is that they would go out of their way for you
Movies like the Ring and the Grudge -- they seem to indicate the fear of feeling or being different in a deep valued conforming society -- they seem to question whether all those born into a family or in society are of equal value (or worth keeping) -- lastly, who cares for those who are outcasts in society, who will come to save them?
The inherent message is that everyone wishes to be a part of something bigger, and that a primary aspect of that is security -- security from being called a freak, security from a harsh world, etc. -- in essence, it is the passing their negative energy from beyond the grave to disrupt the security of others -- seemingly out of vengeance, jealousy, and a desire to be accepted
November 9, 2004
State of the Union
November 8, 2004
What odd places
Furniture stores are ...
My mom wanted to go look for two table lamps -- We went to the Insp place -- that place has some really kitschy looking, alterna stuff -- but I wonder how it is they sell anything
At HW, it is so damn huge that you just wander and wander and wander -- and then when you finally find something you like, then you have to track down a sales person
Really humid tonight at tennis -- we have had some really odd weather -- the off and on storming last week -- and then the dead wind heat and humidity
---
It's comical in its annoying aspects -- but they are having kids do work/study calling you up for alumni donations -- I find highly questionable putting these kids to work as telemarketers for the school -- and I find even more questionable the efforts of schools to not let you know WTF is going on, yet shamelessly ask you for money
November 6, 2004
Leaving it behind
I don't know what to think about recent events related to my auctions on that 4-letter auction site
In the past two months, I have heard everything in that dog ate my homework category of excuses -- I'm tired of it
One person bid 5 times on a hot auction I had then said oh, I mistakenly bid on it (after I filed an unpaid strike on them, after a few unanswered invoices and emails) -- another person took 3 weeks to pay me, then they were like 3 days after paying me, where is my item? -- another person told me, I paid you three weeks ago, it hasn't arrived yet, so I gave them back their money -- they later told me, oh my wife got it and put it in the mail pile two weeks ago, sorry -- this other person claimed that people were stealing mail from their neighborhood, and wanted me to refund them their money -- how bout NO
The auction site is fun and can be addictive -- but at the end of the day, the way I feel about it right now -- I just don't want to stress over stuff that costs less than 50 bucks
Today someone basically tried to extort me -- they go, oh I haven't left a feedback yet -- your item arrived okay -- I've been enjoying it -- there is a manufacturer's packing defect, what can I get from you for it
Ummm, a kick in the ass -- go bother the company, I didn't pack it, I sold it to you sealed -- what can I do, oh yeah I just happen to have that replacement disc lying around here -- irritating
November 5, 2004
6 x 9 = 42
Note of the day:
In the most potent example of how far we take this dissection of political candidates for President jazz -- someone actually worked with psychologists to find that when comparing SATs and IQ test results of El Busho and JK -- the result was that El Busho had more native intelligence than JK -- in other words, as some of love to cling to (owner included), like it's only slightly less meaningful than our other substantial achievements in life -- because it means SO MUCH
-- I have a higher IQ or SAT score than you
(ed. note: of course, we suspected THAT, it was so damn noticeable -- I can pick out those SAT 1400 people all day long at the mall, can't you)
---------
In this endless monsoon of rain that no one knows where it came from or when it will eventually stop -- and no, I'm not yet willing to say this some kind of Biblical proportions wrath of God thing -- you know, like the old days, in the shadows of the Pyramids -- days when if the people defied God by not living according to His word, or for heaven's sake, misinterpreting what He said -- He was gonna show you in spades -- I'm not there yet
I realize a lot has been written about the deep emotional loss felt by people who supported Kerry-Edwards -- And 100x as much, playing dissect the dead carcass of Why Did Kerry Lose -- and get into who are the winners and losers of this past national election
I think it comes down to something I read on Alternet a couple of days ago, I forget now where or what it was -- but it's message was simple
People feel the loss of the direction of their country -- personally they feel the loss of their selves, loss of purpose/loss of their way, not perhaps in the satirical way posed by some -- that people would be killing themselves or are planning that move to Canada -- that somehow the country has moved to the Right and that morality rules -- to speculation that people of metropolitan areas are trying to figure out how to get even with middle america
And it's not solvable or reconciliable by what I have heard attributable to Carville Clintonians -- why don't you move closer in your beliefs to them -- that to me is not the solution or the core issue of why people have been feeling like warmed over crap since late Tues/Wed
It's that deeper fuck with your mind thing that your concerns -- and the things you care about are not relevant -- they don't matter -- As El Busho seemed to imply with his AMERICA HAS SPOKEN speech -- you 55+ million losers are irrelevant, and to his mind, INVISIBLE --
At the end of the day, that's where it's at -- and no it's not enough to make me want to move to Canada/secede my progressive piece of real estate from the union, want to utter expletives and curses at flat earth moralists, or move closer to the flat earth society
So take heart all ye who feel invisible -- you are asking the wrong question
I have read today in leisure reading that much of the existence of humankind as a biological species or any form of life points back to this IRONIC question --
Is it better to be smart than stupid?
After 100,000 or 12,000 years depending on your ontology of when human beings began to fear God or reckon its place in the universe (your pick) -- questions of invisibility or self meaning are irrelevant -- it's how we solve the issue above that makes life more likely to go on for humankind
At the end of the day, you just don't go changing horsemen in the middle of the apocalypse -- well, DUH
Most people don't get it anyway -- ironically that's how we survived all these years, plus or minus 88,000
See you at Gnab Gib or The Rapture (your pick), science guys or true believers
November 4, 2004
Horrified
I was on Axis of Justice earlier today and I found a link to a story about moral values and their impact on the direction of our national politics
Everywhere from The Daily Show to Wonkette -- you hear essentially the same thing, with different flavors -- that middle America and their values took this election -- and that their values are not those held by metro peeps
And I guess it melts every progressive person's brain in their brain case to think about how the admittedly stereotypical middle American could vote against their interests
Well, I read this article -- and similar ones by Dr. James Dobson -- and it horrified me (link within)
November 3, 2004
The End
Well, in a move that was right, JK conceded about 45 minutes ago -- I think he did the right thing by not dragging it out and turning it into a farce like the Rs did last election
JK is a good man -- it was good that he ran -- in many ways, he was the best candidate that was standing after the rollercoaster that was Deano -- however, I think that it is really time for a good hard soul search by the Democratic party
I am assuming the EC system will continue to persist -- so you look at the map and go -- wow, the Solid South lives again, this time a R block -- how can you run a presidential campaign when 130 of the 270 are firmly lodged in the R column -- it's like being down 28-0 in the first quarter, yes there are 3 quarters to play -- but boy, it's hard to make that kind of deficit up
I never thought that in my lifetime I would see such a groundswell of the moral majority again -- I think that they were a novelty in the 80s -- a front led by Robertson and Falwell --
I think that now that Christianity has gone mainstream with New Hope type churches and mainstream-sounding music -- this group has grown by leaps and bounds -- it is also decidedly more political and activist, like the "Jesus Freak" proactive mentality suggests -- the JF label is embraced and cherished, it's no longer a derogatory term
There is a darkness that underlies such a movement -- it is a judgmental perspective that casts doubt on everything that is not in line with your personal beliefs -- I can understand why that is compelling to a lot of people -- I think people grow weary with living in a world of greys, and want some order and black and white, right and wrong, and let your mind turn off and go on auto pilot -- On the other hand, I am a weak minded fool that thinks that ultimately diversity is what makes this nation strong and great
But I don't believe you get far by wanting so hard to take away people's civil rights just because you think homosexuality is distasteful -- or wanting to take away people's right to privacy because you think abortion is distasteful -- or disrupting another nation's life because they are a different color than you, have a different religion, and because of this are somewhat more inclined to do evil things to good little people like you --
Well, I shouldn't say distasteful -- I should say GOD SAID it is -- as for me, I am still trying to locate where it is He said that -- perhaps He is on the phone with His research department going -- I SAID WHAT? WHEN DID I SAY THAT?
But I digress, I think that movements such as the Dean Internet campaign, MoveOn, Air America Radio -- all these things have shown that most of America is still progressive -- and by that I mean, LIBERAL -- it doesn't amount to much to say --- oh gee next time go and vote
What does it say when these people go -- gee, I don't think we should change leaders in the middle of a war -- gee, I think that Bush guy is someone who I can trust to win the war on terror -- gee, I think that Bush guy has a moral compass -- and so on
Well, it means that they are not concerned (THOUGH YOU WOULD THINK THEY SHOULD BE) about jobs, health care, the rich paying their fair share, cheaper prescription drugs, etc.
How do people vote AGAINST THEIR INTEREST -- I mean, four more years of the Corporations President is against their interest -- It is funny but I have always idealistically thought that the President was a traffic cop, making sure all the policies of the nation kept the nation on the right track and benefitted the people, the masses, the public at large -- to have a President who is clearly on the side of big business at the expense of the rest of us is unmistakably AGAINST OUR INTEREST
At the end of the day, the D party dropped the ball -- with all the things that would seem to point that America was ripe for a regime change, they were beaten -- and beaten because they are so GD out of touch with what the masses want nowadays
While we wait
The Bush team made a speech a little while ago saying that they got 286 and Kerry got 252 -- I believe the words were "convinced of victory"
Like I said earlier, the longer this drags out the uglier it makes it look for the Democrats -- hell, I know that they're desperate to win the WH -- and yes, I wanted JK to win -- but as I said earlier too, sometimes you just say -- we ran a good race, we came up short
There's no shame in that -- yes, it makes me wonder about where people's hearts and minds are -- but as for me, knowing what I know at this point, the President has left no doubt this time -- got the pop -- got the EC -- it's time to lose with grace
It's time for Ds to really think about what the hell America wants and how they fit in the future plans of leading this country -- because as far as I can tell, even with MANY FACTORS leaning in their favor -- the common peeps said, you know what -- I'm still voting El Busho
I can't understand it -- but that's why this is a democratic republic -- no one said it was elegant, informed, and un-ignorant
...or at least I didn't -- ha
Election Night, Supplemental
Locally, the big surprise was the wave that Mufi rode to victory --- ERR, I mean the lead -- an unexpected comeback -- reminds me almost of them Sawx -- heck, he even gave HALF an acceptance speech then HAD TO STOP -- my god, this is comedy of the highest order, who fuct up here I ask?
OOPS, we found 4,000 more ballots
There's something that sticks in the back of my mind that tells me that Mufi will get bit in the ass again -- something about people with ties to Boston -- something that tells me look for the heartbreak defeat
Anyways, that should be settled soon, I hope -- I would like to sleep tonight
---
I was going to say that tonight was the night that the Rs could just CHOKE ON IT for Hawaii
All their BS tactics with dirty campaigning especially from the mainland RNC guys for new R candidates all seem to have flopped pretty royally
Some pundits and academics are calling it the Referendum on Lingle -- I'll call it right now, in 2006, Lingle will roll -- she just doesn't seem to have any coattails
All the candidates she put her name behind and the RNC behind, most of them got wiped, and then vet Rs got wiped off the slate too --
All it shows me is that Hawaii is overall a very progressive state -- as America turns WAYYY more conservative -- we still are pretty progressive at heart -- and it seems even WAY CLEARER now that the 2004 Gov race was a Fuck You to Cayetano by some chap-ass Ds than a change the landscape win by LL
Of course, the 4000 ballots may change some of this ... it's been a weird night
November 2, 2004
Election Night
Ok, so I'm stupid -- I just don't understand
We are fighting what is seeming to turn into Vietnam 2
The economy pretty much has sucked -- people losing jobs, health care, etc -- don't even get me started about the stock market
There was a hella popular -- for many, life changing -- documentary about life and politics in America post-9/11
El Busho LOSES by consensus 3 DEBATES
And at this point tonight -- He has won the popular vote by a large margin -- and has apparently won the EC too -- I REALLY DON'T UNDERSTAND -- and yeah all this talk of new young voters and rock the vote -- young people don't give a shit, so Puff Daddy you can CHOKE ON IT
Note to JK, time to concede -- I don't want any presidency of yours to be tainted by dubious tactics in the absence of shenanigans in Ohio -- didn't win the pop vote, didn't win Ohio -- Perhaps I am idealistic and think that JK can graciously concede tomorrow morning -- but I know our new election minutiae term will be "PROVISIONAL BALLOT"
There comes a point to graciously lose when you get beat -- at this point, I see no apparent fraud -- JK got beat, and the business of the American people must move on
Note to self, 21% of voters identified themselves as morality voters -- the so-called social conservatives -- or euphemistically the cultural conservatives -- aka the anti-gay marriage people, the anti-abortion people, the anti-stem cell research people, the "faith based initiatives" people
My God, we live in the dark ages in America, Lord help us all
Election Day
The prerecorded phone calls have continued over the past 24 hours -- notable people such as The Terminator and Bill Clinton have called my home
As I went to go vote, I noticed one oddity -- there were the boundary signs marking the polling place -- AND NO ONE FOLLOWED IT -- in other words, tons of sign wavers including one candidate Sonson -- I don't know what I dislike about that more -- that it's illegal or insulting
I say insulting because I saw a Duke Bainum van with red electrical tape strips that spelled out MABUHAY -- talk about cheesy
Oh yeah, Duke Bainum sighting today in Waipahu -- note to self, if he doesn't win tonight, it will be because he just never came out to our area -- mark my words
November 1, 2004
Enough with the Recorded Messages
I don't know who was the dimbulb who decided that bothering people with prerecorded phone calls was a really good way for people to vote for them
In the past three days, I have received prerecorded calls from George W. Bush, Linda Lingle, General Wesley Clark --- and it's pretty unfortunate because I hung up on all of them seconds after the message started playing
You want to impress me, call me up Dick Cheney .. sheesh -- what an irritating waste of time
October 31, 2004
Nothing Accomplished
Today was the first Steeler game that I managed to watch this season -- only three have been on TV so far this year
It always seems to happen that when my team is having a good season, they are hardly on TV -- This because we have to suffer through the debacles on MNF -- there has never been such a whocares?!?!? matchups on MNF and Sunday night
Well, today the Streak is over, seems almost curious that the same week the Curse ends -- another streak for New England would end
The Steelers dominated the Pats -- it was interesting to hear Coach Cowher say nothing is accomplished yet, we're not halfway through the season -- seven games in, this is one to enjoy
Next week, the last of the unbeatens, the Eagles come in -- hopefully the 72 Dolphins can pop champagne next week and CHOKE ON IT
----
These odd unexplainable monsoons continue today -- I was driving back from shopping at WalMart and out of the blue on the freeway, incredibly hard rain
Perhaps no candy for the keiki tonight -- I can only seem to think that all the negative political ads on TV and the arrival of Al Gore and Dick Cheney in town have caused the weather of Biblical proportions
----
Lastly, I seek to understand about two peculiar aspects of this national election -- for the undecideds, after the past four years -- how could you still be undecided? I mean, you either want to stay the course or go for change -- and no, I don't buy that it's a choice between a turd sandwich and a giant douche
Second, the Bush supporters -- I don't get why he has so much support when there are a great deal of dubious things in his record the past 4 years -- loyalty, it makes us human -- someone said to err is human as well, no?
October 30, 2004
Monsoon
Maybe I'm not paying attention -- but who called this monsoon?
Apparently UH is under water and no class Monday -- but who saw this coming? Man, what I would pay for for good weather forecasting
----
SD went on a quest today to get Kerry Edwards promo swag -- she actually went to Jarrett Inter to go get stuff -- they were waving signs there -- call me odd, but why wave signs in the middle of Palolo, I don't get it
We found some stuff at Democrats HQ on Kapiolani Blvd. -- I really think they should have more staff so that they don't find stuff like computers, TVs and other office equipment missing -- yep, just one volunteer watching the ship -- and he was watching football rather than manning the recep desk -- weird
----
wow, raining hard
October 29, 2004
Another HIFF experience
Well, I shot off a pretty critical email to the organizers of HIFF -- on Sunday
Got back the response today which was kind of like -- well written, thanks for your comments, hope you still enjoyed the movies
Went back tonight with SD to see Up for Grabs -- to get it out of the way, it was a really funny documentary about two greedy guys who went to court to decide who owned a record home run ball -- the witnesses commentary is just hilarious -- and at the end of it, it's hard to say who should have the ball -- I think the judge's decision was the only one you could reasonably come to
I anticipated it -- they fucked up my order -- I paid them, filled out the forms-- and at the end of the day, they had no record of me paying them last Sunday -- I really don't understand how hard it could be -- keep records and don't piss off your customers -- seems simple to me, but apparently I'm a moron
Same problems with people trying to buy tickets as well and figure out which lines to stand in -- not much better 5 days later
October 28, 2004
The Point
I got a enigmatic progress report email from someone who basically said -- some of you are doing bad, some not so bad, and some good
I wish I knew of what use such emails were -- I mean, being non-specific, it's like ummm -- gee, I wonder which group I'm in -- what a waste of time
----------
I don't know what it has been about this week, it's been going by really really slowly -- it's like time itself has slowed down, don't really know what has caused this -- but I do find it to be unique
I have been noticing a lot of news stories about these "Republican" or "Democratic" challenges to voter registration -- I dunno, but is it me this year? -- Have I not been noticing these things? -- it is a bit hard to be so cynical and skeptical to say, oh in the so-called swing states -- lotso political shenanigans to get the edge for one candidate or another -- weird -- it's so odd because for so long, it seems as if these things were on auto-pilot, now its like everyone is hyper vigilant
And my word, can progressive talk radio be more boring -- I mean, yeah I agree with the politics, but talk about dull -- sheesh
October 26, 2004
Why I Love the Internet
I was reading this blog about how all prophecy points to El Busho being the Anti-Christ
Actually, there are a number of sites that make the linkage -- including reference to the New Catholic Times article about how the Pope fears Bush the War President as Guy 666
Yeah there's a lot more crap, exponentially more -- as you can tell by this site too, HAHAHAHAHA ---
But sites like www.bushisantichrist.com is one of the reasons why I love the Internet -- just free thought and diversity of opinions -- great
More of the same
Spontaneous rain.
Yeah, who knows how to read weather radar, anyways?
-------
I'm not really into the NFL at all this year -- this is the year that the whole parity thing has just gotten to me -- where I say, sheesh, what does a victory in the NFL mean, anyway?
Who is a good football team -- and who cares anyway?
And talk about the stinky matchups on MNF -- who the hell cares
-----
It's all over but the shouting ...
Two running errors and a solid pitching performance later -- I believe that the Curse of the Bambino will be added as a historical footnote tomorrow -- in many ways, there is no reason to believe at this point that StL won't get swept up tomorrow
Now what will the people of the Northeast do to define their character -- survive harsh weather? ha
October 25, 2004
Wet Dry
Wet Dry ... Wet
You know, it has always puzzled me how we are sitting dead center in the Pacific, well north some -- but you know what I mean -- how can we not get the weather right?
Today SD and I went to lunch at CPK -- then over to the lagoons at Ko`Olina -- and the weather was really nice -- This was surprising after the rains late last night into this morning
So this morning when it was clearing out, the NWS said that by 4 this afternoon, the flash flood watch would be over -- well, it seems that that was when the black clouds rolled back in -- and since about 5-something -- here's the pouring rain again
----
Can no one read weather radar ... look at it ... there's a big damn rain cloud covering our state -- how can you cancel the FF warning -- I don't get it, can they not see it?
Some random thoughts ...
Bubba on the stump again for JK -- looks real skinny, still a compelling speaker
Rumors have it that the latest incarnation of Van Hagar is close to the end of the road -- Sad, odd, and -- all it makes me want to do is shake my head
----
Saw Day of Independence and Sleeping Tigers yesterday -- two really great movies about WWII Japanese experience in the US and Canada -- and two movies that really get its about Japanese people and their love affair with baseball
Anyways, speaking of hardball ---
Going into G3 of the WS this year, total offensive domination by the Sawx -- it certainly is not over -- but StL has to wake up the bats
October 24, 2004
Do Too Much
Gets real stupid --
I recall a time six years ago where I went to see Eric Koyanagi's hundred percent at the Signature Highlands theatres during the HIFF
I didn't have tickets, I waited in a clearly marked line -- they let us in, I bought my ticket -- sat down and enjoyed a really good movie
Now six years later, and a few HIFF visits in between -- Suddenly everything has turned VERY STUPID
Same situation as six years ago, no tickets -- so I walk up to the so-called ticket sales window -- someone tells me, oh it's sold out but you can stand in the "Rush Line"
Here I am thinking -- ok, HIFF has now got their shit together -- an online ticketing system -- surely they won't be a pain in the ass like Cinema Paradise was, where we bought tix online, then had to wait in line with people w/o tix to pick up our tix -- then play knock over the people to sit down in an overflowed Varsity
NO, I WAS WRONG
I went online two nights in a row to get tix -- same message, problem with credit card -- ok, so I have a problem with ALL MY CREDIT CARDS -- not the case
So, I rely on the information on the website, that there are tickets --- yeah, okay back to the future, NO TICKETS
Now, here's the other interesting thing, you can buy tix in advance -- but if you don't show up 15 mins before, they will sell your seats DESPITE TAKING YOUR MONEY to people in the rush line
Now, in the Rush Line, lady says ok, we got about 10 seats, you may have to sit in the front -- who is interested in seeing the movie -- about 7 hands go up, including SD and I
Then, the assistant gets distracted counts AGAIN, and now there are 10 people's hands in front of us, including those who CUT THE RUSH LINE
I go, WTF, you just counted us in the 10, how did we go from 7 to 11 --
She counts AGAIN, now we're 9 and 10 -- I'm like WTF, this is the most stupidly coordinated amateurish dumb fucking way to run a railroad
We got into the movie, and there was a good 30 seats left over, 20 in the front two rows -- and I'm like fuck, this has to be the worst system to get people to see movies in the HIFF ever
I must be a dumbass because we're going to try this again next Friday night -- I paid for tickets for a Friday movie -- this after being told, oh you can't buy tickets without an order form for shows that are not SAME DAY --
I have a feeling they just took my money -- and I'm gonna be hella pissed at the will call desk Friday night
October 23, 2004
Circumstance and the Average Person
Tonight SD and I watched Monster -- we had been putting it off for a while. Actually I should say that there was something in the concept and the concept promotional pictures that didn't really appeal to me
It is a very well-acted film -- Charlize Theron gives the performance of her career as "Lee" -- and Christina Ricci is very solid as the young impressionable Selby -- very solid all around, and great performances all around
That being said, I am left with the feeling that this movie is dubious -- if I were to grade it out just on acting, story, pacing, drama -- it's an all time classic, it is fabulous
Here I am questioning whether I am a prude or not -- not because of the sexual situations or graphic violence -- for me, right now I am grappling it with what was this movie for?
I don't believe it is about "understanding" the late Aileen Wuornos -- I believe the writer/director wanted us to understand AW
As much as I love it as a movie, it's really hard to match up the dramatic and problematic love story feel of it to, I assume, understanding the humanity and the circumstances that underlay the dark choices of AW
Yes, I understand that "fucked up" people make fucked up choices and end up often with other "fucked up" people -- and then make bad choices together -- I had this odd feeling that the important thing to realize about AW was that she was trying to be loved and accepted by a world that dealt her a totally shitty hand
If one does not accept the premise that she is somehow mentally ill (or at worst, a very unintelligent person), this whole understand her thing falls apart like a house of cards -- Why???
It becomes this collapsing argument of "Which Victim to Blame?" -- We can't blame Selby for being gay and looking for the acceptance she received from AW -- We can't blame AW for being molested, battered, and rejected as a child -- We also can't blame AW for being victimized by a rapist who she later kills in self-defense
It simply does not follow -- a non-sequitur if you will -- that we can't blame AW for killing several men --
Especially when PROBLEMATICALLY these killings were in part to support her relationship with Selby who from the movie was the only one who stayed with her as she was -- and later Selby too (if you follow the film's logic) SOLD HER OUT -- the movie selling Selby's testimony and participation in a sting on AW, seems almost to point to ... yet another person who sold AW down the river
The hard part for the viewer to accept then is the essential part of the movie -- THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE BASED ON TRUE EVENTS -- you cannot create a story for people to "understand" AW when the perspective of the story is NOT TRUE to the real life events
The problem then is in the DRAMATIZATION, as a viewer you feel sad for this woman who in so many ways is the victim of circumstance -- and only seeks the acceptance of people --
In the end, as a viewer, you go -- you know, they really minimized the deaths of AW's victims -- in many ways, it was a means to an end -- so that she could run away with Selby, set up the life she dreamed of, etc. etc.
It's really hard for a viewer with minimal morals to go -- oh yeah, she murdered a lot of people for cash and cars so that she could support herself and her lover -- but it's "understandable" because she was raped, molested, rejected
People like AW deserve compassion and help to rehabilitate themselves, mentally, physically, and emotionally -- but that is not the same as "understanding" why she murdered several men in cold blood after luring them with the promise of sex -- that shows a level of sinister calculation that no decent person can relate to
I liked the movie, then I realized -- THIS ACTUALLY HAPPENED -- and I didn't like being manipulated by the dramatic direction of the film -- This honestly is a A++ quality film, it's just that afterwards you feel like you've been wading around in shit up to your nose -- and can't understand how something so good can smell so bad
October 22, 2004
What Do They Know?
I found this unique set of facts in my mailbox today about what the typical Bush supporter knew about current issues -- the survey was conducted after the debates -- pretty interesting stuff, almost makes you kinda understand why they support him ... time to get their learn on
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(Courtesy Misleader.org)
BUSH SUPPORTERS MISLED
A new study by the Program on International Policy Attitudes (PIPA) shows that supporters of President Bush hold INACCURATE views about the key current events and Bush positions on key foreign policy issues
Here are the key findings:
72% believed that Iraq had WMDs prior to the US invasion
57% believe that the Duelfer Report concluded that Iraq had WMDs or a program to develop them
Even though Duelfer was selected by the Bush Administration, his report actually concluded that "Saddam Hussein did not produce or possess any weapons of mass destruction for more than a decade before the U.S.-led invasion" and the U.N. inspection regime had "curbed his ability to build or develop weapons."
75% of Bush supporters also believe "Iraq was providing substantial support to al Qaeda."
55% of Bush supporters believe the 9/11 commission's findings support this al Qaeda - Iraq connection
The 9/11 Commission actually concluded there was no "collaborative relationship" between al-Qaeda and Iraq
Bush supporters also hold inaccurate views about world public opinion of the war in Iraq and a range of Bush's foreign policy positions.
Bush supporters incorrectly assume BUSH SUPPORTS multilateral approaches to various international issues
69% thought Bush supported Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty on nuclear weapons
72% thought Bush supported Land Mine treaty
51% thought Bush supported Kyoto Protocol on climate change
53% thought Bush supported International Criminal Court
(ed.note: I guess no one watched the debates)
74% thought Bush supports fair labor and environmental standards in trade agreements
------
Here's my take:
The supreme irony about this all is that the core of Bush supporters support these positions, yet he DOES NOT
Apparently this doesn't matter because the majority of Bush supporters support him despite these obvious gaps in their knowledge about what his positions actually are, in addition to gaps in their own personal knowledge about issues related to the "war on terror"
At what point does the blame shift from the Bush administration misleading us to just plain ignorance on the part of Bush supporters -- and by extension, the public in general
October 21, 2004
Flow
It's that hard to quantify soulfulness that makes something really alive and fun ... I have found that the new X-Men and NBA Live video game are both nice in their own ways but lack that intangible -- FLOW
Team America had a lot of good ideas and hahas here and there, but it also lacked flow --
I think teachers and professors think that flow is just using proper transitions in expositive writing -- but flow is more than stringing shit together -- it's stringing interesting stuff together in a way that makes it more meaningful and greater
Is it me or is it time for eBay to crack down on the Chinese editions of DVDs -- damn, I looked for one DVD that I would like to have without being ripped off by MSRP -- and almost 95% of the listings were Chinese bootlegs -- LAME
Some people are very prompt, goodly clock watchers -- I got two calls this morning -- one at 8:00 sharp ... the other at 8:30 sharp -- this is all nice and good, but what is the difference between that and say 7:57 or 8:13 for that matter -- why is it that no one goes oh, meet you at 8:19 -- is there something wrong with middle times? I wonder ...
October 18, 2004
I have my doubts
This is a blog -- one of the many millions and millions now out on the web -- I met a person today who did not know what a blog was -- that was interesting, although I wouldn't suspect that he would have known -- being that he was also talking to me about older tools to make webpages, like MSFP -- thats a blast of old for you
I realize that blogs help people to air out their lives -- I have found it very curious that most people use them very therapeutically -- and many talk about controversial things and use bad language -- largely because they expect some kind of anonymity to apply
Well, maybe its because they are young, but again a tattletaler has struck again, putting another political candidate on blast for the things written in their blogs -- I shake my head and wonder why one would publish some of the things, especially since they aspired for public office -- the young, they crack me up
Hoo boy, I'm drained from watching a lot of high entertainment, high stakes playoff baseball -- I think I've literally burned 12-14 hours of lifespan watching the Sawx and Yanks grind it out -- Sawx are back in, the rumors of their demise are greatly exaggerated -- again popular punditry has failed us -- after all the innings the past three days, who will pitch for either side -- tomorrow is G6 -- but it's supposed to rain -- maybe rain is good to let both sides rest up and give it their best after a day of rest -- nonetheless, go interlocking NY
It's interesting to read stories on the slow death season that UH football is having -- now it is turning to money as UH is unlikely to qualify for the Hawaii Bowl this year -- and apparently they have to cough up some cash to cover losses if they don't appear, and two scrub teams from the continent that no one in Hawaii cares about show up -- what kind of deal is that? I guess it's time to cheer them on to 5 wins with 7 left -- the alternative is really LOSE MONEY
With literally two weeks left in the election season, I have realized that I don't particularly care anymore to listen to punditry or speech blurbs from the campaign trail -- I've made up my mind -- apparently the candidate I prefer has not made up enough minds cross country to make it close in the electoral college -- what can you say when words and deeds aren't enough? -- this is how apathy sets in
Maybe this is how people become Republicans, they just don't care anymore
October 17, 2004
Too much printed matter
Sometimes I wonder, whether these magazine sub actually pay attention to when you pay them or not -- it's almost like they try to guilt you into paying two or three times
Well, I got a fourth notice for a monthly magazine, that I paid off a month ago -- and two issues came one day apart -- and I'm beginning to think, they don't have their shit together -- pretty interesting content though, the MIT Tech Review mag
Other than that, I am surprised how willing these mags are to send you -- almost like a try and buy style nowadays
My magazine pile has grown and grown -- as I have seemingly grown out of reading magazines -- too reliant on the Net nowadays for info -- so as I put more mags out to make H-Power for our common electrical needs, I think pretty much that I won't continue on with these magazines
But anyways ---
I've watched way too much baseball this weekend -- heck the Yanks and the Sawx have decided to give the viewership their money's worth yesterday and today -- both days 4 hours and change plus -- yesterday the interlocking NY were just offensively amazing -- today it was one of those grind it out kind of games that Yankee playoff baseball has been like for the past four years or so, give credit to the Bosox, they hung in today -- back to the game at 11 tomorrow morning, quick turnaround
October 16, 2004
It was right on
But not exactly the most entertaining experience
I got the feeling while watching TEAM AMERICA, that in many ways, it was very smart -- it was an excellent satire of what the world must think of America, what America must think of the world, what makes the peace people tick, what makes the war people tick -- at the end of the day, it leaves you with one proposition
No one is right, no one is wrong -- although it truly sucks to be on the business end of a destructive attack from America or the terrorists -- it's like at the end of the day, you wonder whether there is a better way than you bomb us, we bomb you, we bomb you, we bomb you, we bomb you, ...
So as a satire, you are forced to question why it is, that why certain things America does is almost becoming a hollow caricature of itself -- in other words, does it really believe in what it is doing
I don't know the answer to that -- I didn't think the movie was overwhelmingly funny -- I didn't think the movie really had a point at some points -- and there's only so far that you can go with puppet sex, especially when it is only intended to push push push that envelope
I feel in the middle about it all -- it's not really so entertaining that I would recommend it -- it's almost a peculiar curiosity that you should see just because -- we would grade it out as a C
October 15, 2004
David Pack is Ambrosia
It has struck me in recent days that it is very unfortunate -- and somewhat misleading -- though I respect their right to continuing playing music and holding nostalgia tours -- sometimes it's not the same without certain personalities that were an unmistakeable part of the original music
David Pack has not been affiliated with Ambrosia for three years now -- he is the voice, the master songwriter -- yet for some reason, it escapes the minds of promotion to tell the peeps that he is NOT touring with Ambrosia anymore
I saw Journey with Steve Augeri two years ago -- this time around they are heavily promoting him as the lead singer of Journey -- that wasn't the case the last time around in promotional materials here
Which leads to the question, was Black Sabbath, Black Sabbath when it was only Tony Iommi during the 80s and 90s -- hell, is Van Halen with Sammy Hagar, Van Halen? -- when I saw The Who, is it The Who when only Roger and Pete remain -- can Paul and Ringo tour and call themselves The Beatles -- and let's not forget our friends at Led Zeppelin who seem to have forgotten John Paul Jones was in their band
Yes, over time, there are mediating factors such as legal squabbles to the extreme of death of band members -- I think it's just good policy to let people know what they are getting into when they buy their tickets
So when Ambrosia goes on this weekend at the Shell -- I won't be there -- it's not the same without David Pack
October 14, 2004
Burn out
I don't know what it is, I feel really burned out today -- having a hard time focusing in on things -- hopefully, some rest can recharge and restore me
October 13, 2004
And it makes me wonder
Yes, in that Stairway to Heaven kind of way ...
I went to go file some papers today -- and the filing cost was 120 bucks -- what possibly could that money go for -- and since we are talking an average 1500 filers per year, what is that money going for?!?!?!?!?!
Saw Debate 3 -- again, no real knockout punches thrown -- nobody really selling it hard that they could be the next president -- the noticeable things about today were that El Busho seemed almost drugged, mellow and somewhat goofy, as opposed to his Friday scream and show the veins in my neck -- JK was on point and clear, but many times pretty dull and un-exciting -- if I had to score it, this is a sweep of three debates for Kerry -- I'm very surprised at the three lackluster non-performances by the "debate" President
If you were to tell me that after two games in the ALCS that Mussina and Lieber would pretty much silence the bats of the very potent Sawx offense -- well, let's say that I would not believe it -- well, seeing is believing -- Yanks go up 2-0, and head for Boston for possibly 3 games over this weekend
Lastly, what good is it to produce something that no one reads -- it's funny because I handed off a project last Monday -- read the review comments today, and I am totally convinced that it wasn't read at all -- what a waste of time
In Memory of Christopher Reeve
(Click on banner to access Christopher Reeve's official website)
I found it particularly ironic and sad that a few days after the Presidential debate on Friday -- a debate that featured discussions about stem cell research, and one where John Kerry talked very poignantly about our obligations to give hope to those with as of now incurable spinal, nervous, muscular, and other disorders -- and talked of the resilience of Christopher Reeve to keep up his body as best as he could so that perhaps some day he could benefit from medical cures
I know that Christopher Reeve was an actor, and in his latter years, an activist -- it is perhaps trite to say that he was a hero because he played Superman in the movies -- although it seems ironic that the role he is most identified with really became him through the example he set with his life
In his life, particularly after becoming paralyzed, he became an example of the human ability to cope and deal -- to believe when it seems like everything has turned against you, to possess inner determination and confidence not only to live, but make your life as you believe it could be
Too often, in the past few years -- I have looked to examples of "American leadership" in politics, business, sports, and other areas -- and too often, I have found it to be full of bluster and not worthy of mentioning in the same breath to those who we should consider to be heroes and leaders
I saw this on a tribute on aintitcool.com, I believe that it best captures what I feel about Christopher Reeve -- and also what I think about what makes a great leader and hero
"A hero means what he says and does what he means with equal parts passion and intelligence. In this day and age, it seems like we have to choose between the two when it comes to our leaders. In the role of Superman and in his real-life battle with paralysis, Christopher Reeve showed time and again, with the greatest confidence and humility, just how absurd such a choice is."
Perfectly said -- RIP, you were a great American hero
October 12, 2004
The Choice 2004
I watched the Frontline program on PBS tonight -- The Choice 2004 -- I felt that this two hour program was a really informative news styled documentary on the lives and public service of John Kerry and President Bush -- in many ways, the program was a nicely woven side by side comparison of the lives and choices of the two men
Whether you are on the fence or are staunch supporter of either candidate, the program is a very worthwhile investment of your time as it will delve into very interesting aspects of their personal, social, and political lives -- it probably will not sway your choice either way, but will provide some needed context relating to their biographies
I found the program to provide an informative look at the elements that shaped both men, and in turn, are shaping the course of this election -- it provided some needed depth where normal news only provides bits and clips
The program will be on in Hawaii on our local PBS affiliate at the following times:
Wednesday, October 13 1:00 AM
Thursday, October 14 9:00 PM
Friday, October 15 1:00 AM
It will also be available to watch on the web from Friday as well -- We will post a link up to it just because we were very impressed with the informational value and nonpartisan tone of this program
October 11, 2004
Mumblings
I had originally written something about Bush and his Dred Scott comment -- I had seen many blog entries about it being proxy codetalk for scrapping Roe v. Wade -- given the nature of his answer and the words used in Roe, it is not an unreasonable assumption
I have seen the speculation sites about this year's October Surprise -- for those who are unfamiliar -- it refers to the amazing solving of the Iranian hostage crisis, with some speculating that Iran Contra started earlier than anyone guess
February's reported news in some central Asian news sources that Usama had been captured already by American forces -- and the Bush was planning to hide this fact and pop it to swing the election
All of this shows me that there is a great mistrust of our current leadership by a sizable number in our country -- there is also a virtually equal sizable number that is almost blindly supportive of the leadership -- in many ways, it explains the dysfunctional and fractured tone within our country today -- I kind of suspect that this was what it was like during the Vietnam War era, again it seems that Santayana was right
New 10 Weeks video is out -- seemingly follows up on the last question of debate night -- asking Bush about his mistakes
October 10, 2004
When politics is like evangelism
It's really funny nowadays -- it's like you can't talk to a "conservative" about Fahrenheit 9/11 or even convince them to take a look at it -- it actually reminds me a lot of trying to tell someone about Jesus
So what can you do when you have friends and family members that are for all intents and purposes -- totally bought and sold on the good war, the good economy, the good education, the good marriages, the good stem cell research, the good economy, the good tax cuts
I actually had someone tell me a story about how their parent said to them -- that if their aunt couldn't convert them, no one could -- this of course was an aunt that was totally traumatized that her son was about to embark on an 18 month tour in Iraq
That to me is the darkest commentary of them all -- someone who has so bought into the propaganda of fighting the good war, against evil, and providing freedom, that suddenly the realities of losing someone that they should love and empathizing with a family members' grief -- APPARENTLY NO LONGER MATTER -- that is the level of misplaced passion and displaced trust that has been created by this deceit
That scares me and makes me very sad -- I do not presume that everyone should believe as I do -- but it frankly disgusts me that the lies have made someone callous to those things that are most important in life -- love, relationships, and family
I don't even want to get into what it means that a self-professed Christian can be at the center of this massive campaign of deceit -- you know, when I think about what an anti-Christ could be -- well, I don't have to look very far at all
Need some wood?
October 9, 2004
Last minute people
What is it about us that makes us procrastinating, late people -- I was just at the airport post office a few minutes ago -- the place is swarming, and I know that if I went earlier this morning -- no one
In another game that suggests that someone somewhere sold their soul, the Bombers pulled another dead cause out of the bag -- and now head to face off with the hated Sawx
Speaking of Boston, when did they raise their prices -- yikes, we went to BP Bakery today -- costs $5 a slice ... yes, they are big slices and tasty as hell -- but I recall a time when they were one of the best bargains in town
Not anymore, I guess
October 8, 2004
Did well
Watched the debate again this afternoon, why is it that they have a debate on Friday night -- opposite playoff baseball -- umm, am I the only one that detects some cynicism and strategic planning -- obviously a large part of the audience won't watch -- and in many ways, I didn't have to watch the Bombers bomb the Twins, and then make it a little bit too exciting at the end of the game
That aside, I thought Kerry did well again -- el Presidente looked pretty off and frazzled in the first half an hour, he settled in later -- Kerry was just even the whole night through, and felt very open to the crowd -- Ironically, I think El Busho did better on social issues, it was really playing to the base with his stuff -- in the end, I think Kerry won it, but Bush probably solidified his support after a shaky first debate -- and off we go again ...
Saw the Friday Night Lights tonight movie -- and it was a fairly entertaining movie based on the real life accounts of Texas high school football in 1988 -- Billy Bob is just a real solid actor, another excellent performance -- the ensemble was competent enough as actors, thought the actor who played James "Boobie" Miles was really excellent -- some of the football action was a bit oversold, in fact some of the hits would have been personal fouls for spearing -- you get my point ... nothing particularly great or horrible about the movie -- it's a really a movie about small towns, big dreams, and status -- a solid B/B+
Must not be important
Yesterday, prompted by the final report on the existence of nuclear, chemical, and weapons of mass destruction capability -- basically the report said there was NONE, there wasn't any planned for a pretty long while ...
Bush and Cheney conceded that THERE WERE NO WMDs IN IRAQ -- but it still was okay to invade Iraq because Saddam Hussein was corrupting the Oil for Food Program -- yeah and news coverage of this story (.... yeah, about that much)
That would be like Ronald Reagan invading Ethiopia because the Ethiopian government corrupted the USA for Africa or Band Aid food aid programs -- this whole war thing gets more bizarre everyday
In other notes along the same line, today at 3PM Hawaii time, the town hall style debate between El Busho and JK -- 20 so-called undecided voters picked by Gallup (Doing God's work by pollin' ... gmafb) will ask questions -- I thought this format was done best by Bubba -- we shall see who does well tonight
New flashes -- new 10 weeks flash video today (click on the banner to the right)... and those JibJab boys have done it again on their site, the new flash is EVEN FUNNIER than the first one
That's all, go interlocking NY!
October 7, 2004
Things You Don't Notice
It was interesting today -- I had to go to an appointment at the old territorial building. Until now, because of its prominent facade, I had never noticed that it was several stories tall -- well, it is partially blocked by the shade trees too -- anyways ...
I didn't write my reax to the season ender for Nip Tuck, a couple of nights ago -- I liked it, I felt that the vast majority of it could have been just another regular episode -- the reason why I say that is because it didn't focus enough on our two doctors or Julia -- nice noticeable nod at the end to the way the first season ended
Did it close off loose ends from this season? yeah it pretty much did, cleaning up the Ava situation -- creating a new basis for Julia and Sean's relationship -- -- Matt's slate is clean -- and how was that Who Shot J.R. ending, very 80s -- interesting, almost an homage, if I didn't know better -- well, for Christian, it kinda felt like his character was in limbo after the early part of the season and the resolution of the Gina and Wilbur arc -- I guess he has a future if he wants it with Kimber, that's about it
Yeah the Carver storyline is interesting for a cheap pop, but where are they going with the trio of main characters? -- there are some intriguing issues that could possibly tie the Carver with the big trio -- but that's just my own speculation about the identity of the C -- if the C is who I think it is, then it's a really huge huge series changing surprise that will lift the series out of the mixed bag doldrums its been in for the past month or so -- so anyways, whatever shall we do with our Tuesday nights until next summer?
That was quite a baseball game between TC and the Bombers last night -- what a real grinder with many ups and downs -- the Yanks playing moneyball, then Mo blowing the save, then Spiderman hitting the homer to put Twins up in the 12th -- and then A-Rod culminating his big performance with a ground ruler to tie the game, and Godzilla with the SF to win it -- draining but awesome
October 6, 2004
Process of Disbelief
You ever get the feeling that someone is not telling you the truth -- or even better, the reasons behind it is that they are trying to con you
Well, there are a few regular things in our lives, are there not? You know, for as silly as it may seem -- how much faith we put in the USPS -- isn't it odd how things always arrive as they should -- I mean, what faith do you have that it should arrive being that there are MILLIONS and MILLIONS of packages and mail being handled daily
And stuff getting lost in the mail is like ... well, it seems like some kind of fairy tale that never happens
I've been on the major auction site for a long time now -- I have never failed to get something I bid on, nor has anyone ever failed to get something I sent via mail
Lost in the mail -- umm yeah sure -- I'm pretty skeptical about this situation right now -- something is very very fishy here
October 5, 2004
Quite obvious
You know, it almost sounds too common sense ... and too easy to say, but there are some people are within normal bounds of body size -- and then
THERE ARE THOSE ON STEROIDS ... ha
I looked around at 24HF when I went to go do arms today, and what I noticed is that most people look pretty normal, some fitter than others, some fatter than others -- everyone within what most people would call normal people size
And then this one freak who was about 5-6 and 270 with unbelievable vascularity and size ... soooo --- uh, can I learn your training secrets -- yikes, how can someone be as natural as you ... NOTT
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Just finished watching Gm 1 of TC and NY -- not much that can be said, Bombers hit the ball -- and then hit into FIVE DPs -- that is a major league record, tough luck
October 4, 2004
Flat Update
The flatness has ended as of 5 to 10 tonight ...
Was listening to iTunes library and Far Beyond the Sun came up for the first time in a while --
Man, Yngwie sure shredded on his debut album Rising Force -- just listening to it --- man, it's hard not to be upbeat and creative
Whatever happened to Mr. Malmsteen anyways?
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Later, I was listening to Hitomi wa Angel -- and just thinking wow, this song sure stands up well -- it's so well arranged, the vocals are well produced -- just awesome
Flat Flat Flat
That's how I feel right now ... just flat -- the close associate to blahh
I think after being so jacked up with determination, nerves, and the drive to get something done this weekend -- well, it's maybe no big surprise that I feel flat
Tennis was fine, besides the no breeze -- man, I think I sweat out a few pounds tonight
Anyways, in upcoming days I should put out a bit more reviews -- I have been listening to the new Tears for Fears, and the sound is very surprising
October 3, 2004
Sunday sunday
Rather uneventful day today, spent most of it working on my business plan attachment -- sometimes you look at something after you do it and go, gee -- where did this come from --- today was one of those moments
Went to play tennis in the afternoon, it gets nice during that time of day because of the shade trees next to the courts
Sometimes I wonder whatever happened to football Sundays ... or Saturdays for that matter ... the NFL and college are a full month into the season, and I've paid attention to very little of it
things change, I guess
October 2, 2004
Last night
Well, today was the second of the twice annual cleanings of the big entertainment wood console -- it's awesome how much dust collects here in a few months -- almost makes you wonder, hmmm, where does dust come from anyways? ok, so maybe not
Last night I went for the first time to the new theaters in Enchanted Lakes -- well, they may not be actually new new, but they are new to me -- it is a pretty nice facility, MUCH BETTER than W's Row facilities -- they are also nearer to SD's house, so I think we'll be going there again in the near future
When you see a movie for a $1 you can't complain, or at least, I couldn't last night -- we saw AvP -- and it was a competent Aliens and Predators movie -- sure, you can get picky about universe continuity issues -- particularly as it relates to say, gestation of aliens, or when Predators come to Earth (every ten years?) or or or ... nevermind -- nice nod to Weyland Yutani Corp and how androids look in the future
It was fairly entertaining enough -- it was not by any means the worst of the films of now seven films in both series -- it was also certainly not the best --
I was going to say something about the humans getting the hell out of the way -- but it was kind of a unique twist on the concepts of both films that humans are pretty irrelevant, and only used as breeders for a hunting ritual -- yes, they played the scared human card, and the bad ass ETs card, but ultimately it could have done more with AvP kickass fight scenes
I'm not complaining, it was entertaining enough ... a C/C+
September 30, 2004
A few things
Later P.M
I almost forgot that Metallica was going to be on Jane Pauley today -- I just can't believe how much has changed that Met can now go on a talk show oriented for women -- They promoted the Some Kind of Monster documentary (which at last check will open in Hawaii in the first week of December at the Academy of Arts)
It's just really interesting to see how this band that I've followed now for 20 years has evolved from the worst kept secret in the metal underground -- to the top of the world with the Black Album -- to the turmoil 3 years ago that nearly broke up the band for good -- to now, stronger than ever with Rob and the three mainstays
Metallica on daytime TV who'd have thunk it -- not me
(ed note: well, it was at 9 pm our time, delayed due to the debates)
P.M. Entry
Well, the Bombers locked up their 7th consecutive division crown today, ensured a third straight 100 win season, and broke the team's single season total HR record -- It's kind of amazing how much criticism this team has received this year, given what the hard numbers say
Saw the debate this afternoon and it focused on national security, homeland security and foreign policy. Thought JK did well to keep it short and focused -- I am more and more surprised that he looks presidential -- as much as I am pulling for him, it didn't look like he came away with a tide turning or dominant performance
I thought El Busho seemed very defensive at times, on the CNN cut screens there were times when he looked flustered and annoyed with Kerry's statements -- he did stick to his message -- you know, Enemy Enemy, 9/11 9/11, war is hard work, you can't be commander in chief if you give mixed messages -- I didn't think he did great, he did decent enough -- I think he missed an opportunity to put JK away -- and I don't think either of them swayed any undecideds
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A.M. Entry
I got to find out where the cool eating places are in Kalihi as the wonderful planners at SDOT decided to shut down some ramps and do construction on the freeway ... DURING THE DAY -- I don't know what they think is a non-peak hour when you make a ton of cars get gridlocked on School Street, morons
I guess I was just lucky because when I went to go pick up my grilled chicken sub for lunch ... they decided to close off the escalator, and make tons of people wait for the slowest elevator in Hawaii - it's been that kind of day so far
Well, the first debate is on tonight between El Busho and JK live from the U ... I think it's prime time for the EC ... so that means 3-5 pm here in paradise (the only station that has it delayed in Hawaii is PBS/Channel 11 at 9 pm tonight) -- we urge all our readers to take some time today and watch, and see what direction both of these candidates would like to take our country for the near future
Of course, check out the new 10 weeks video by clicking the banner on the right -- this week's features Rebecca Romjin-Stamos
September 29, 2004
Funny, are things that bad?
I find it horribly ironic and distasteful for mega millionaire celebs to go on Orpah (yes, that is the spelling her parents wanted, the Biblical one) -- and say oh, you should vote because THINGS ARE SO BAD NOW -- now really Ms. Diaz and Winfrey, are they SO bad for you? GaFB!!!!
Now, I know that I share the politics of these people, no doubt -- but it's hard to be taken serious when you're making millions -- and then you're urging Jane Q. Middleclass to vote because their life sucks
Whatever ...
And now after the twinbill sweep, 1 is the magic number
Snow
I am trying to keep up with my eBay sales and mail -- it gets pretty confusing after a while when you have about 10 or so packages to send out -- yes, apparently I am a simple minded fool when it comes to doing this
Janitor gave me some things when I gave him the big ol comics box of DKR -- that was very cool
I think I shall start back in on reviews as a break from doing a project -- well, off to the zoo -- oh, I mean, 24HF
And 3 is the magic number
September 28, 2004
Odd Visions
Boy, it sure is easy to tweak this and that when you are 30+, right now my back feels a bit tweaked
I saw another odd thing while at 24HF today ... I saw these twins with matching OG ensembles ... and yes the OG stands for Over Gold --- ala over dose
Call me stupit but I wouldn't go out wearing every piece of gold on my body EVERY TIME I GO OUT -- there is a time for that -- it is called the Mr. T contest
And to wear it while exercising, shit, that is ludicrous
While going to the city dump, we noticed while loading up that the contractors had put some kind of metal service piece with wheels in our garbage bin -- um, yeah we didn't notice that the bin now weighed 8000 pounds -- odd
I had something else to say about entrance exams and selectivity -- but I shall hold off -- I will say something on a related note however -- Usually exclusive things are pricey, or if they are an exclusive job, they PAY WELL -- to me, there's no point making it hard to shop at Wal-Mart or K-Mart or Goodwill or Savers -- no one expects to become financially independent working at fast food either-- much like there's no point in making a grand to-do about a job that pays right down the middle of the road -- oh yeah, so very important that we'll pay you close to nothing ... get real
September 27, 2004
Low Energy
You know, if you stay at some place long enough -- you begin to notice stuff -- so as I sweated it out on the ellipse today, I noticed this one employee at 24HF who never seemed to be doing anything but was surely moving around from station to station to station and chatting it up -- I have a feeling she won't be there long
Tennis was kind of a drag today -- we found out there was 21 people in the class -- that's way too big to get work in, and it's frustrating because its hit hit wait for a while, hit hit wait
Well, the DKR figures arrived in this huge comic dealer direct case -- I was like sheesh, how much does it cost to ship this monstrosity -- I took a look inside my case and was really impressed at how figures look compared to the mental image I have of the printed page -- very cool looking
Maybe later tonight I shall bust out the leather bound DKR and take a look at it for the first time in a while -- hopefully, the new BM movies have that grit and darkitude of the Miller BM, I've kinda felt that the last two BM movies have really kind of gone more towards the cartoony side of the BM legacy -- aka ala the 60s BM TV series
Not that I intend to kill my budget, but I have noticed that the new retro packaged Star Wars X figs are VERY HARD TO FIND in Hawaii -- yes, I know that the DVDs came out, but all the same ... for the past month, the majority of them were to be released, and I've yet to see the vast majority of them in the stores -- who wants fucking Lobot anyways??? that's what I thought
Talk about knowing where the bread is buttered -- many versions of Imperial troopers, three Darth Vaders, the bounty hunters, and I believe 2 Boba Fetts -- I know that they overproduced for the prequels, but this underproduction reminds me of how it was in the good old days where there were no SW figs for Xmas because it was all sold out -- GD I'm old
I demand a Grand Moff Tarkin, ha
And the magic number today is FOUR --- and one final note, it never is good to say -- gee, this team is better because someone got injured -- but I think there is a team in Steeltown and one in the Eastbay that probably will benefit from them
Authentic Sources and Censorship
Or timidity, partisanship, and undermining the public trust
(Courtesy MoveOn)
Recently, CBS came under heavy criticism for failing to thoroughly authenticate documents in a story on the President's National Guard record.� Apparently CBS' embarrassment over that flap has made CBS too timid to run important news critical of President Bush.�
According to the New York Times: "a report in the online edition of Newsweek... described the frustration of CBS News reporters and producers who said the network had concluded that it could not legitimately criticize the president because of the questions about the National Guard report."
Still, censorship for partisan purposes is a familiar pattern at CBS.�
Last year, CBS refused to air "Child's Pay", the ad that won the "Bush in 30 Seconds" contest sponsored by MoveOn.org Voter Fund, during the Super Bowl.� Although the ad was well within the bounds of good taste -- it showed children working at menial jobs and asked "Guess who's going to pay off President Bush's $1 trillion deficit?" -- CBS cited a policy against running "advocacy" ads.�
But then it turned around and aired millions of dollars worth of ads promoting Bush's new Medicare plan, which wouldn't come online for years.� It also aired controversial White House ads claiming that drug users supported terrorism.�
CBS' censorship decisions make its partisanship obvious.�
But here's more: CBS is owned by Viacom, and Viacom's chairman, Sumner Redstone, endorsed President Bush on Thursday, just one day before CBS pulled the 60 Minutes report on Iraq.
Partisan censorship by CBS betrays our trust on a fundamental level.� All of us own the airwaves CBS broadcasts on.� They're a public resource, licensed to CBS,and in return CBS owes us a balance of viewpoints on major issues like Iraq.�
Especially now, when more than 1,000 Americans have been killed in a war whose reasons have yet to be honestly explained by the Bush administration.�
And especially just before an election.
September 26, 2004
Sludge
Today sure took a while to get over ...
Started the morning watching the shellacking of the Yanks at Bosox -- didn't see K. Brown get bombed out in the first inning, I think it might have made me sick -- I thought Loaiza pitched decent the two innings I saw him pitch -- left it at the 5th -- came home and saw it was 11-4 Final ... as much as the Bombers clonked the red stockings last weekend, they got klonked this week -- WASH
Saw highlights of the Steeler-Fins game -- as much as I dog the use of the rainy game in football movies -- this was the RAIN GAME in real life -- shoot, the whole field was water
I was planning on listening on RA, but my speaker boobs have conked -- now the great issue of finding USB speakers for the Cube -- lots of luck to me, I will get ripped off
Good news today that Mari's new CD is doing really well -- at the Luau, we are supporting this -- if you click on the banner to the right, it takes you to CD Baby and you can get it -- support different sounding good music
Well, project is in the can, should get feedback by Friday afternoon -- have to work on a different project for most of this week
And, sheesh, I hope the order from AFs FINALLY COMES IN -- crap what did they send it by, slow boat to China?!?!?!?! -- did we buy Dark Knight figs or what? I saw them at Suncoast last week, that should tell you something ...
Post office tracking means NADA ... arrgh
September 25, 2004
Weekend
Going going gone ...
This weekend sure is going fast -- I think it's probably because of my need to get a project done by Monday afternoon
Game two at Fenway -- nip and tuck until the Bosox bombing in the eighth -- looks like tomorrow's rubber match is going to be tough
I watched the second half of the SC-Stanford game -- was very surprised that Stanford had really dominated on offense in the first half -- second half was workman like SC, tough D and relentless physical running attack
Tonight was just laid back, we watched some Surreal Life, ate some rootbeer float and just rested
September 24, 2004
Interesting Day
I think today was the first time I ever ate the much raved for Garlic Chicken from Mitsu-Ken -- it's very similar to other sato shoyu crispy chicken, I just find K's Bentoya and Aiea Bowl's version to be tastier
To each his own ...
Very tight battle today between the Yanks and Sox, pretty nip and tuck all the way -- I don't understand why the pundits keep dogging the Bosox managers about leaving Pedro in too long -- it felt like an ebb and flow game, I don't think just yanking Pedro would have made that big of a difference for Boston
Saw the movie Wimbledon tonight, and much to my surprise, I thought it was the best movie I've seen since maybe Spiderman 2 or Hellboy -- yeah, it's not a comic book based movie -- but it was the most I've been entertained by a movie in a few months, that was a nice surprise
September 23, 2004
Lots o'Crap
Since the computer room SLASH library room is being remodeled, I have noticed that I have even more crap to sell
Pshh, all this stuff is a big headache -- I'm having a fire sale of most of the stuff that I don't know why I bought it in the first place
Lugging all the crap out of the room into mine has made me realize that I better cut down the consumption because alot of the stuff just well -- sits
September 22, 2004
Killer Heat
Man, the heat index has been off the charts the past two days -- I have sweat buckets, the next step I suppose would be blood -- gotta keep hydrated
Got in a few spins of the new Shadows Fall -- it has the SF sound, nothing has really sunk in with me yet, where I go GD, that was awesome! -- not yet
Just as I was going to pull my banner on Ichiro, thinking he wouldn't get the record this year -- he goes OFF -- NINE HITS in 2 games!!! -- wow, that is just amazing
Sumo at PCH is pretty different -- I just went tonight to get the usual -- funny but this one is just filled with Chinese employees -- same Sumo quality tho, absolutely inhaler inducing
Was glancing at the multi-colored jobs pages -- it seems like what the world wants is Admin Assts, Car Salesmen, and other low paying service employees -- I tell ya, I never would have believed it reasonable -- but I wouldn't be surprised if in our lifetimes the revolution is near -- there are too many have nots being created every day -- it is very disturbing
Why did Dan Rather have to apologize? This is the most non-story story of the year -- Is it me or do I sense some Bush's Brain tactics going on -- I'm just saying ...
September 21, 2004
Compulsive Impulsive
Repulsive ...
It is amazing how much I want to consume against my better common sense and good intentions
It was funny because today was supposed to be a big consumpo day for me with SW out on DVD and then new stuff from Shadows Fall
On Sat., SD and I went to Mililani WM -- and it was funny because I was drawn to this humongus Juggernaut action figure -- I decided to pass on it
Today I went back to WM, and found the Juggernauts all gone -- when I went to the SW display -- they had all these cool ass new action figs -- which I passed on
Later this evening I decided to perhaps go grab a few of the so-called commemorative DVD figure sets --- sorry all gone
That's WM for you, when you see it you better grab it -- because the inventory turns over like the sand in the desert-- one minute its's there the next minute POOF
I dunno, going to WM makes me want all this shit I don't need -- I think I will stick to the script from now on and pass on the impulsive buys
It got no coverage
(Courtesy MoveOn, the high points of Kerry's speech yesterday)
The war on Iraq was a mistake
War was unnecessary because the inspections were working: "Today, President Bush tells us that he would do everything all over again, the same way. How can he possibly be serious? Is he really saying that if we knew there were no imminent threat, no weapons of mass destruction, no ties to Al Qaeda, the United States should have invaded Iraq? My answer is no -- because a commander in chief's first responsibility is to make a wise and responsible decision to keep America safe."
Iraq distracted from the war on terror
"The president claims it is the centerpiece of his war on terror. In fact, Iraq was a profound diversion from that war and the battle against our greatest enemy, Osama bin Laden and the terrorists. Invading Iraq has created a crisis of historic proportions and, if we do not change course, there is the prospect of a war with no end in sight."
President Bush misled us about the reasons for the war before it occurred.
"He failed to tell the truth about the rationale for going to war. And he failed to tell the truth about the burden this war would impose on our soldiers and our citizens. By one count, the president offered 23 different rationales for this war."
President Bush is still misleading people about Iraq, painting an optimistic picture directly contradicted by his own intelligence officials
"In June, the president declared, 'The Iraqi people have their country back.' Just last week, he told us: 'This country is headed toward democracy. Freedom is on the march.' But the Administration's own official intelligence estimate, given to the president last July, tells a very different story. According to press reports, the intelligence estimate totally contradicts what the president is saying to the American people."
Bush went to war for ideological reasons and consistently misjudged the situation on the ground
"This president was in denial. He hitched his wagon to the ideologues who surround him, filtering out those who disagreed, including leaders of his own party and the uniformed military. The result is a long litany of misjudgments with terrible consequences. The administration told us we'd be greeted as liberators. They were wrong. They told us not to worry about looting or the sorry state of Iraq's infrastructure. They were wrong. They told us we had enough troops to provide security and stability, defeat the insurgents, guard the borders and secure the arms depots. They were wrong. They told us we could rely on exiles like Ahmed Chalabi to build political legitimacy. They were wrong. They told us we would quickly restore an Iraqi civil service to run the country and a police force and army to secure it. They were wrong. In Iraq, this administration has consistently over-promised and under-performed. This policy has been plagued by a lack of planning, an absence of candor, arrogance and outright incompetence. And the president has held no one accountable, including himself."
John Kerry has a four-point plan to fix our Iraq policy:
First, the president has to get the promised international support so our men and women in uniform don't have to go it alone.
It is late; the president must respond by moving this week to gain and regain international support. The president should convene a summit meeting of the world's major powers and Iraq's neighbors, this week, in New York, where many leaders will attend the U.N. General Assembly. He should insist that they make good on that U.N. resolution. He should offer potential troop contributors specific, but critical roles, in training Iraqi security personnel and securing Iraq's borders. He should give other countries a stake in Iraq's future by encouraging them to help develop Iraq's oil resources and by letting them bid on contracts instead of locking them out of the reconstruction process."
Second, the president must get serious about training Iraqi security forces.
The president should urgently expand the security forces training program inside and outside Iraq. He should strengthen the vetting of recruits, double classroom training time, and require follow-on field training. He should recruit thousands of qualified trainers from our allies, especially those who have no troops in Iraq. He should press our NATO allies to open training centers in their countries. And he should stop misleading the American people with phony, inflated numbers."
Third, the president must carry out a reconstruction plan that finally brings tangible benefits to the Iraqi people.
One year ago, the administration asked for and received $18 billion to help the Iraqis and relieve the conditions that contribute to the insurgency. Today, less than a $1 billion of those funds have actually been spent. I said at the time that we had to rethink our policies and set standards of accountability. Now we're paying the price. Now, the president should look at the whole reconstruction package, draw up a list of high visibility, quick impact projects, and cut through the red tape. He should use more Iraqi contractors and workers, instead of big corporations like Halliburton. He should stop paying companies under investigation for fraud or corruption. And he should fire the civilians in the Pentagon responsible for mismanaging the reconstruction effort."
Fourth, the president must take immediate, urgent, essential steps to guarantee the promised elections can be held next year.
If the president would move in this direction, if he would bring in more help from other countries to provide resources and forces, train the Iraqis to provide their own security, develop a reconstruction plan that brings real benefits to the Iraqi people, and take the steps necessary to hold credible elections next year -- we could begin to withdraw U.S. forces starting next summer and realistically aim to bring all our troops home within the next four years.
September 20, 2004
ok, so ...
if this guy is so bad, why does it seem like no one gives a shit -- and by no one I mean the so-called "likely voters" -- it seems like every week, I am welcomed by a new poll that puts Bush-Dos at somewhere in the slim margin area of 2%-6% of a lead
I'm at the point where I don't even consider the blame Nader thing to be remotely relevant -- it is much like the Fasi effect of last Saturday night -- if you don't provide the public with a clear cut choice that they like, well, they start doing bizarro things like voting for Fasi or Nader
Here's what I think of the Kerry campaign right now ... how do you represent BLANK SPACE in characters? ... I got a 10 page email from the Kerry campaign today -- that's how I feel about ten pages, too
Get real, who the fuck do you think will read this?!?! -- it may even be good and persuasive information, but at 10 pages, even I have better things to do with my time like click DELETE -- I am beyond hoping that the chaos that disturbs Kerry's chances will pass, but at this point I think it's GD hopeless
Lemme see, over half the American people think the war is wrong -- umm, likely voters are only those who voted regularly (so that must mean the last election), so that doesn't count these unknown young voters and dissatisfied voters who didn't in 2K -- well, that's a bit idealistic
Does anyone get the feeling that anyone and I do mean GD anyone could do a better job running against DOS than JK does? -- hell, I do
It is supremely irritating to see the incompetence of the jackass party -- it's like a person that folds a good solid winning hand at HoldEm
September 19, 2004
No clue, none at all
We went to the Cinema Paradise film festival yesterday afternoon -- they oversold the house -- that's why you don't let indie people run a privately owned theater, they can't count
The movie was Bush's Brain -- I can't say that it is even remotely close to F911 or has even 1/10th of the resonance of F911 -- it's one level more technical, and a couple steps away from being warm -- at the end of it, I can't say that I was very energized by it, it was kind of like okay, so that's going on too
Piling on ...
It was interesting last night, I saw two people fall prey to whispering campaigns .. oh no, it wouldn't be SMEARING ... when editorials put down all manner of speculation and insinuation about you ... and yet for some reason for all the "dirtiness", I see no criminal charges or civil sanctions being handed out -- I have just felt over the course of the past year that newsies have some kind of axe to grind with politicians -- it's almost like a jealousy, like politicians are second status citizens and much more stupid than the newsies who know best for all -- who said muck racking was dead?
So what is dirty oil anyways? I was using RP and it is an extended life oil -- the caveat is to change the oil when it is dirty -- well when it goes in it is Purple, after about 3000 miles, it is dark brown, after 4000, 5000 and 6000 still DARK BROWN -- so is that dirty? Many of the mechs in town say it maintains visc until 10,000 -- well 2 filters and 6000 miles later, I have fresh RP in the car
Bombers should have swept this weekend -- I really liked the confidence and urgency that they played with this weekend, it was a nice statement
And UH football, sheesh, I am so fucking tired of listening to people SHILL the football team and its talent -- when you lie to the people, it is personal -- I don't think that some of the sports pundits here really and fully comprehend how personal UH fans, particularly football fans, take losses -- and not only that, but being LIED TO -- everyone jumps on the bandwagon and feels the positive energy because let's face it, Hawaii people are trusting -- and then the games get played on the field, and everyone leaves after losses FEELING LIED TO ... in a year where the athletic budget really doesn't need a hit from falling attendance ... it's not about being a fair weather fan and not supporting UH football --- GD, I hate being lied to -- I'm boycotting local sports programming
How terribly dramatic ... ha
September 18, 2004
It has all come down to this
We have such an interesting political culture here in Honolulu -- in most places, no one blinks an eye about stink, negative political ads
In most places, there are signs and ads -- but not the look at me, I'm a monkey sign waving at peak traffic periods -- and the odd thing about it, it actually convinces people to vote for them -- ooh, they waved at me, KA-CHUNK ... oops sorry, fill in the Oval
I have the unique opportunity to vote on two of the more controversial elections this primary season -- the Senate race between Cal and Clarence, and the mayoral race between Mufi and Duke
My political inclinations are such that if you cannot offer me anything except some really cheap talk stink about someone, you probably aren't competent enough to sell me on why you can do the job --- telling me how someone else sucks DOES NOT EQUAL you don't
Much like waving at me, doesn't make me more inclined to vote for you ... you can tell the political apathy is thick when the news here is hot and heavy after a story about a beauty queen on ice -- you ran for a pageant so now let us tear you down? ... I don't get it
September 17, 2004
Odd Day
Early this morning I had to correspond with someone about an approval that I needed -- I got back a very esoteric answer, that verged on sassy
I sent back a clarifying message, and got back another odd answer -- and so it went, message tennis -- I really find message tennis to be one of the oddities of modern communications
It's almost as if we are too lazy or something to get all our concerns and questions down in one crack, whack, whatever -- ha
After a dinner, we went to see Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow -- I must say I loved the washed out visual noir style -- and the 1930s archetypal, Batmanesque gothic buildings, and Metropolis-like monsters and bots
The plot was very thin and campy -- the acting despite some high powered stars was well limited by the shallow dialogue -- the action scenes and CGI were very impressive
Great to look at ... nary a story to carry it ... it's not something I would recommend spending 8 bucks for, or even matinee money -- go see it at the Row if you absolutely have nothing to spend a buck on -- pretty and flawed, and also pretty flawed -- if I were to grade out, about a D+
Tough loss by Bombers to the Sox -- more tough because twice this season they've gotten to Mariano late in the game -- and we all know that don't happen too often
Bonds finally cranked 700 -- and it was surreal, I saw it live and it didn't really look like it was going out and then it did -- oh well, the march continues towards George Herman, the greatest Bomber ever
After a less than torrid week, Ichiro got two more today -- it's getting tougher for him to get after the record as the season is running out of games -- actually it hurts because the ump got the wrong call today and he should have picked up one more hit
September 16, 2004
Miscellany
I was at 24HF when I noticed something peculiar while sweating it out -- I don't know which news to believe
September 15, 2004
Tearing Down
I saw an unfortunate thing today -- I saw a fwd email that a member of the community had forwarded to the members of our State Legislature, well more particularly the House
It had congratulated a political candidate in support, and then attacked the candidate's opponent -- well not directly but because of what the candidate had written in their weblog
Admittedly, some of the content on the blog was not the height of maturity or discretion -- but it amazes me how people want to tear down others or cast aspersions on them
I for one know that I am not perfect -- I cannot comprehend having so much hatred for another that I would use their words against them so that my agenda could be put forward -- I figure that either your agenda is good or it is not -- it does no good to question another's character foibles because that does not equal (is a non sequitur) with your agenda being superior
Later today I noticed the xanga blog was taken down by its owner -- that's exactly what the attacker wanted -- to have a chilling and fear effect -- that's so unfortunate
September 14, 2004
10 Weeks
The fine peeps at MoveOn have another campaign going, known as the 10 Weeks campaign -- where directors and artists have contributed their time and talent to make commercials and talk about key issues in the upcoming Presidential elections
If you click on the banner each week, SL will link it to the 10 weeks site and you can see a new commercial
September 13, 2004
Sometimes I wonder
Where the day goes -- I guess it was so filled with odds and ends that it just blazed on by
A cool thing today was that I was able to get a copy of Megadeth's new CD from WalMart ... yes, it's not supposed to be out til tomorrow, someone goofed -- anyways I've heard the first 3 tracks -- very solid, very good, so far so good
I was kind of wandering around in the music section and saw the new one by Lamb of God -- well, it was the edited version, they only had the edited version -- I don't get it, if I were a parent would I be pleased that my child was listening to a clean version .. if I were a kid, would I want a clean version? Never understood the whole PA thing
Of course, every other "questionable" CD was available only in the PA version -- I wish WM would make up their minds about their stand as a conscientious vendor of purity and light (and profits, ha)
The other kind of weird thing about WM is that they only seem to carry the "newest" stuff ... they are not deep with "older" merch ... everything especially in the CD, DVD, Games areas tends to be just released within the last month ... just a coincidence? I think not, WM has been setting the tone for turning over inventory for years now
On a side note, I've been settling in with the notion that it has been a somewhat disappointing year for me as a sports fan -- well, I shouldn't say disappointing as much as unsettling -- things are seeming to turn around a bit with the fall sports ... but UH
GD, UH!!!! Every year I have such high hopes for the football team, and every year I feel lied to -- at least the VB program is doing well, as if I care ... ha -- I feel a change in my attitude towards the state's highest paid employee -- it's very very skeptical, and I think it is because I feel like I'm being lied to
When what you are being told and what you see with your own eyes don't match ... well, who are you going to believe ... I rest my case
You know, it was kind of interesting ... I was listening to a national jock talk sports with Beano -- and he had an interesting observation that he said: I think some fans wish Rix or Brock Berlin didn't have another year of eligibility -- funny, I feel the same way about soon-to-be Mr. Passing Record
Oh well...
September 12, 2004
Paradox of Skill and Lack
There's something very strange that happens when you play tennis, HAVE LIMITED SKILL, and have too few tennis balls
Well, you don't play very long -- and you spend a lot of time doing pick-ups
Yet there is no good way to haul around a goodly number of tennis balls, like say, three dozen or so
I guess it's just time to improve already ...
On a side note, we went to the Row Theatres today -- and we couldn't figure out why there was such a huge line and yet no shows were scheduled within 2 hours -- we went to go see F9/11 again, and we figured right that not all of the people in line were going to our movies
I guess Restaurant Row is fun to hang out at on Sunday because everything is closed ... NOTT
September 11, 2004
Trying but why
Today seemed like nothing came easy -- and I don't know why that was
There was a lot to do that seemed so simple on paper, but it didn't come off without a hitch -- but now it is done
There just was a whole lot of restlessness today ... oh well let the rain wash it all away
On a lighter note, we saw Trainspotting tonight on DVD -- very nice, yet darkly entertaining movie -- I can see why Lucas picked Ewan for Obi Wan, it's a shame he has underutilized him to date in the Prelogy
In Remembrance
Three years ago today, a horrible tragedy ended the lives of thousands of people -- in solemn remembrance, we wish you and your families peace, pray for peace in all countries, and especially pray for the wisdom of leaders around the world
September 10, 2004
Not following, not paying attention
I guess I've been preoccupied -- with what exactly, I'm not that sure
This is actually supposed to be a big month for heavy music releases -- this week (I think) the new Lamb of God CD was released ... and next week, it's the re-formed Megadeth and their new one ... and the week after that, it's Shadows Fall time (that one we are super excited about) ... and I think that the Slayer Reign In Blood raining blood concert DVD from earlier this year was pushed off
I have also been seeing the commercials for the Star Wars DVD set -- I'm wondering if the release has been pushed up from the week of the 21st to next week -- I'm a big time SW Otak so it's not a question of whether, it's a question of when -- if it is next week, that will be surprising
I guess I am curious to see what additional tinkering GL did to the classic trio -- oh well, we'll see
September 9, 2004
Mayor's Race
I don't think I've seen such a boring political candidate debate as I saw last night -- all it told me is that no one is ready to get specific except for former mayor Fasi ... and all he wants to say is -- I was mayor for 22 years and I won't raise your taxes
I understand and can feel that Mufi and Duke are very intelligent men -- call me stupid but I needed more than to hear what I already have been hearing from their political ads -- there were opportunities for them to answer questions that were intended for them to be SPECIFIC --
I find that troubling because all that says to me is that no one is confident enough to LEAVE THE SCRIPT ... LEAVE THE NOTES ... LEAVE THE SOUNDBITES BEHIND -- and get to think on your feet, don't be a robot, show some creativitiy, and show some guts to answer what were really softball questions from the panel
I don't think anyone did well tonight, I felt it was a rehash -- that's really lame considering some of the very important challenges our next mayor will have to undertake and resolve -- no one demonstrated to me that they were willing to step up tonight -- that is more than a little disturbing
Late Night Surfing
I haven't done this in two years or so ... but it is interesting to see what pops up on the search engines relating to this site
I found that Lamb of God has placed my review on their official webpage as one of the CD reviews of As the Palaces Burn -- it was also kind of neat to be quoted for reviews of Pillar's CDs on a well-traveled Pillar fan site
I never imagined that this site would have such reach and that my ramblings on about this or that sometimes actually resonates with people across the vast expanse of the digital void -- it is all very cool and very humbling at the same time -- I guess I am thankful that this thing that is a venue for my thoughts and experieces, has some meaning and purpose beyond me
September 8, 2004
The Year of the Mod
So anyways, I was back under the hood today -- this time of SD's family PC ... seemed that a Ethernet card had died and gone to heaven about a week or so ago
After having it checked over by the peeps at CC, SD's dad bought a new FastE card -- and I installed it tonight
It is really amazing what humidity can do in Hawaii -- well, particularly the Windward side -- some of the metal casing for the original card was RUSTING AWAY in big chunks -- I was pretty tripped out by seeing that
It took longer than it should have -- and yes, an E card install is pretty basic -- the config should be easy, but OH NO, nothing is easy on Microslop
Took me about two minutes to click in the new card and yank the old one, took me an hour to get it right so that we could satisfy the OS that the card was working -- MS is such a pain in the ass
September 7, 2004
Heating Up
It's that time of the year again, the election season -- and it seems like there are a lot of political races that can shape the direction of our county, state, and nation
At SL, we believe that everyone should take an interest in the government and current events -- get informed and knowledgeable -- get involved and ask questions of your leaders -- and then use the franchise privilege that you have as a citizen of this country to vote your conscience during election days
We don't endorse anyone -- as if anyone would pay attention to who we did, ha
In general, we are supportive of candidates with integrity, commitment to service, and a progressive agenda -- and more importantly we are supportive of people getting informed and voting to make their communities, states, and our nation better places to live.
Assault Weapon Ban
The national ban on military-style assault weapons will expire on Monday, September 13th, unless President Bush and Congress act now. President Bush promised to renew the ban, but instead he's letting it expire -- he has refused to call on Congress to deliver it for his signature.
For 10 years the assault weapons ban has taken the deadliest weapons off our streets, cutting their use in crimes 66 percent. But beginning Tuesday the 14th, an 18-year-old will once again be able to buy an AK-47 assault rifle in most states.
We can stop this if we speak up now. President Bush and Congress must renew the assault weapons ban, not let it expire. For more information, go to the link below.
(Courtesy MoveOn.org)
http://www.moveon.org/savetheban/
September 6, 2004
That feeling of downhill
I think it's best described as when the coaster hits the top and starts ricketing towards the plummet to the trough below
There's something about Labor Day -- yes, I know it celebrates workers and gives them a day off
To me, it's always been a signal that this year is heading quickly towards its end -- not that it really means anything deep to me -- it's just that feeling before the WHOOSH!
September 4, 2004
What is the sound of ...
People jumping off the bandwagon
Well, the home team dropped its first game this season to a transitional school -- this after some of the biggest hype in memory preseason
I feel that it's unfortunate because the athletic department really needs the revenue from the gate -- and unfortunately we live in a front runner town ... for that matter, who doesn't?
Something that I've only come to grips with recently -- Ichiro could break an 84 year old record for most hits in a season ... I'm rooting for him because that guy is all about hustle and playing the right way
ANDDDD .. the last I checked the Interlocking NY was still in first place -- so all my bandwagon pals, get some heart and step up
September 2, 2004
Rhetoric and soundbites
I was very appalled by some of the speeches at the RNC this past week -- including that of Bushies daughters and of El Busho himself. I've never heard such a canned stiff speech from El Busho -- and it didn't speak of anything related to their past record these four years or their direction for the future
I got a message from the Kerry-Edwards campaign that previewed JK's upcoming stump. More reasons why I will not be voting for four more years of El Busho or think that chanting USA makes me a good American
Excerpts of John Kerry's Upcoming Remarks (Courtesy Kerry Edwards)
The election comes down to this. If you believe this country is heading in the right direction, you should support George Bush. But if you believe America needs to move in a new direction, join with us. John and I offer a better plan that will make us stronger at home and more respected in the world. And we need your help to do that.
For three days in New York, instead of talking about jobs and the economy, we heard anger and insults from the Republicans. And I'll tell you why. It's because they can't talk about the real issues facing Americans. They can't talk about their record because it's a record of failure.
We all saw the anger and distortion of the Republican Convention. For the past week, they attacked my patriotism and my fitness to serve as commander in chief. Well, here's my answer. I'm not going to have my commitment to defend this country questioned by those who refused to serve when they could have and by those who have misled the nation into Iraq.
The vice president even called me unfit for office last night. I guess I'll leave it up to the voters whether five deferments makes someone more qualified to defend this nation than two tours of duty.
Let me tell you what I think makes someone unfit for duty. Misleading our nation into war in Iraq makes you unfit to lead this nation. Doing nothing while this nation loses millions of jobs makes you unfit to lead this nation. Letting 45 million Americans go without health care makes you unfit to lead this nation. Letting the Saudi royal family control our energy costs makes you unfit to lead this nation. Handing out billions of government contracts to Halliburton while you're still on their payroll makes you unfit. That's the record of George Bush and Dick Cheney. And it's not going to change. I believe it's time to move America in a new direction; I believe it's time to set a new course for America...
...And because a stronger America begins at home, we'll talk about our plan to create jobs, cut taxes for the middle class, lower health care costs, and make America safer and more secure.
(ed.note: now that sounds like something I can get behind)
Lack of sleep
Wow last night was a brutal night to try and sleep in -- way too hot and humid
It makes my simple mind think whether something like sleeping at a night like that requires a big gallon jug next to the bed to replenish lost fluid
One of the cooler things this past month or so has been that our local channels have carried the preseason local telecasts of preseason NFL -- the games are pretty much boring, but the home market announcers bring a color to it that's much appreciated
I think that the NFL prevents local markets from showing more than day doubleheader on the national stations (unless you're the local market) -- so away go Jim Plunkett, Artie Gigantino, etc. ... it's not so much that I love the Raiders, I've always enjoyed their broadcast teams --- even from when I lived in Los Angeles
September 1, 2004
Continuing chaos
I suppose I have learned a new lesson from observing the remodeling project at my house that is now going on three weeks
If you don't get a timeline from the contractor, it's not like they will do one on the fly -- and then the subs will do work whenever and wherever possible
For example, the kitchen remodelling required a number of different tasks -- what I didn't understand is why they took the stove and oven out last Tuesday, and now it's almost 10 days later -- and we've had to eat out every night since then because the tasks behind reinstalling the stove are not done
This hot and humid weather is not helping too, because some of the windows must stay closed ---
The sandwich meat of the day was that I took my mom to the mall with my dad's car -- and my dad has the magic car that makes all the water and coolant mixture DISAPPEAR
So while we were there, I went to inquire whether Sears automotive could put in fluid -- I mean, after all, there's a big sign for Coolant change -- they said no
so off I had to go to Longs -- which thankfully had Menehune distwater on sale
When we looked at it later, the case of the radiator was cracked -- which means to my simple mind that it was pretty low on fluid for a while ... well that's life, stuff breaks down
August 31, 2004
Odd-servations
Today has been a day for odd sights
I saw a pregnant woman, yes showing --- smoking a cigarette on her way to the store -- maybe she didn't get the memo -- yeah, the one about wearing tight shirts that don't fit ...
I had to pee when I went to Bankoh so I walked across the parking lot to TRU ... well, that certain Ts R Us place is selling The Passion ... yes, that passion
Oakley ... yes, the so called avant garde optics designers ... now makes SHOES -- I saw them on this man in shabby clothes while I was waiting at Kinkos ... which is now FedEx Kinkos, mind you
The post office cardboard boxes for sale ... come with instructions on the box for what you can and cannot put in them ... for example, large boxes are for large bulky or tall items ... whereas medium boxes are for toys but not lawn furniture ... do you get the picture that America as a whole has a lot of dumb jobs for people ... I now want to be the box contents writer for USPS
Three wraps, two fries, and a soda costs $21 bucks at Arby's, makes you almost want to bronze your poop, doesn't it?
And somehow In Living Colour is not as funny now as it was in 1990 ... behold the progress of humor
The Riddle of the Chicken and the No Head
So what is like totally not fun and costs 8 million dollars, and makes you stress out like crazy
Applying for work with the big G -- because everything is in DC, even if the job isn't -- and then herding together the required materials takes time that you don't have when shit is due on Friday close of business
To top it off, Half.com sold one of my school books, so I gotta mail that today as well -- or else
HAAAAAA, this is so crazy
August 30, 2004
Paperless and Clueless
Ok, so riddle me this ... it has boggled my mind
I am applying for like a conversion internship that converts into formal employment after like three years with the big G
So they opened up the process today -- and all the stuff is due in Washington, DC by Friday -- everything about your life, transcripts, whatever
This despite the DoD's regulation to go PAPERLESS -- you know what that means? I guess it's a phase in ...
Note: The job is here in Hawaii, note also that getting transcripts from a university is like finding the treasure of Al Capone -- takes a long time, for very little in return
Oh well, I guess FedEx will take the remainder of my money ...
August 29, 2004
Saying GB to the Summer
It's hard to believe that it is almost September already ... Well, it's easy for me to tell -- my supply of really worthless, expensive energy bars from GNC is dwindling down
Hey, it's almost GNC Gold Card week -- huzzah, yeah right -- I'm almost as excited for the release of the Passion on DVD, hoo can't wait ... the anticipation, not
Anyways, as it is that time to settle back into old routines, I was thinking about how many movies I didn't see yet this summer -- and as I look again at this list, I'm not sure I will ... well, at least for full price
(In order of current subjective curiosity)
Alien Vs. Predator
Exorcist: The Beginning
Manchurian Candidate
Collateral
The Stepford Wives
Troy
This has also led to my 2004 Don't See It List
(DSI or DIS for the hip, yet tragically learning impaired)
Open Water
The Day After Tomorrow
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
That movie with Pierce Brosnan and the Jodie Foster replacement from Hannibal
That other movie with Julia Stiles and some Brit guy
Taking Lives (where making it UNRATED on DVD misses the point that it sucks)
Well, while I'm at it, it's time to clean up the site a bit ... see ya summer, I hardly noticed you this year
August 28, 2004
Stop the violence
Haha, it's really appalling -- I'm laughing out loud to the Filipinos congregating for a second birthday party across the street
This one kid standing on the side has made a sarcastic comment during a woman poorly singing the Robin Hood the Movie love theme ... everything I do, I do it for ICE ... ha
I must be old, I remember those old PSAs on MTV about stopping the violence, with Roxanne Shante, Kool Mo Dee, Queen Latifah, etc. --
I wish this one woman would stop her 45 minute shrill set of ballads -- GD, this is the most grating, scratch the chalkboard rendition of From This Moment On, et al. ---
Anyways, this was a pretty fun day, SD and I took the animals on the monthly pet hike -- this time in Likeke, which is that trail off the Old Pali Road to the waterfall -- pretty muddy and wet, but very fun -- SD had to wash the dogs afterwards bc they were caked in mud
This afternoon we went to tennis, and it was interesting bc me and the others were the test subjects for picking up same colored objects against same colored backgrounds -- it optically doesn't work, and that's dangerous when a tennis ball is coming at your ear at 90+ mph
August 27, 2004
A mystery solved
Tonight one of the topics of convo at the chinese dinner with SD's family was why do the people at Cold Stone sing? We left Kin Wah not knowing the answer to this.
Later that night when we went to Blockbuster to rent something, we stopped over at Cold Stone and ran into SD's aunt and uncle
While we were sitting making chitchat, we noticed the youthful female workers breaking out into song -- so SD goes: why are they singing for?
Her aunt said that each time they get a tip, they burst into song -- that's pretty odd, but then again choosing HONEY to be mixed in ice cream isn't exactly breaking the barriers of taste, now is it?
August 26, 2004
The Movers and Pizza
It's always interesting to listen to poor Filipino covers of US rock and pop classics -- it seems as if my neighbor would like to do his home improvement and car improvement projects at seven in the morning and blast his music
I guess it's sharing ...
Well tonight SD and I ate some great pizza over at La Rina prior to moving in her desk partition -- yes we did that at 8 at night, I'm sure it was the entertaining moment of the night for the security cam guy
One note about SD's building, it has the most dizzying spiral driveway in its parking structure -- I was getting ill riding around in it
August 25, 2004
Out of touch
There's something about being on vacation and not going to work that leads to disorientation when it comes to knowing what day it is or what is going on in the real world
I got mail today that closes out another chapter in my work life ... sheesh, it only took nearly two months to arrive
To my amazement, I spent some time today watching Kung Fu on DVD -- I think the commentaries are horribly racist and short sighted --- but the pilot movie are immaculate on the DVD. Somehow the show still works after all this time
On with the David Carradine renaissance!
August 24, 2004
A blur
I don't really remember all of what happened today ...
Before I knew it it was late night, and I was watching the new N/T episode on FX
August 23, 2004
Monday = Rain
It's been odd but I notice that even though most days here lately are very nice
On Monday, it RAINS
This is beginning to irk me bc Monday is tennis day ... oh well, we reschedule for Saturday afternoon
August 22, 2004
We do Heroes right
Yes, it is a play on KFC ... you can see the level of my lack of creativity
Well, today was a very restful day in many ways -- not much going on but the Sunday routine -- no nap, but did some this and that around the house
I finally finished off seeing Hellboy from beginning to end
To me, it is a great tragedy that I didn't see this one in the theatres because I enjoyed it a great deal -- I am only remotely familiar with Mike Mignola's Hellboy Dark Horse comic -- I have read a couple of issues of it
I thought that this movie really captured the feel of comics really really well. In fact, I can without reservation put it up next to X2 and Spidey 2 -- and in many ways, I enjoyed it MORE than X2 and S2
I've been waiting to see a movie about superheroes capture that intangible magic of superpowers and the fantastic ... This one nailed it down and sent the viewer on a magnificent ride
It surprises me greatly that I could care so much about characters I knew so little about -- that I could learn so much without LENGTHY statements of who I am, what I am, etc. -- the movie had the exact right mix of action, the fantastic, character idiosyncracies, and driving us home towards the finish line (keeping it moving along)
It gives a hiccup in the last 20 minutes -- it obviously overdramatizes something that as a viewer you go, why and what for? -- earlier in the movie, that plot element seemed to be well defined even if the outcome was ambiguous -- the moment kind of underestimated the audience, and that was the only part that I felt some quibbles about
Other than that, this one really smashed it out of the park -- it's everything you could hope for in a hero movie -- kudos to Guillermo Del Toro and the ensemble cast, well done
August 21, 2004
Unremarkable
I must say that today was fairly unremarkable -- I won't even complain about the continuing sticky weather
Ever had an experience with something that someone hyped too much? Well, tonight we watched In America on DVD
This supposedly was some really great, emotional drama -- well it was good, and that's about it. It wasn't tragic or sad, it wasn't tremendously good, nor was it tremendously bad.
An immigrant's life in all its mundane glory -- in the end, I think most people want to make a big thing about "letting go" and living on -- I thought that BY DEFINITION if you are an immigrant to the US, and are dirt poor
Well, you aint got much but to live on and let go of your old ways -- this movie was all about the struggle of life in a new place, with new rules, new people, etc. -- I didn't think or get from the movie that the EMOTIONAL HANG UP was that big of a deal -- yes, it was a plot device, but it was not all consuming or so big and insurmountable
Unremarkable ... that sums it up, good but not that good
August 20, 2004
Water themes
The humidity is just awesome, this of course in comparison to the relative lack of humidity in the LV
Apparently the first tropical storm is bearing down on us, I don't want an ugly storm -- but some much needed rain would be nice to cool us down
Speaking also on water, SD and I went to see Open Water -- the latest of the shaky DV flicks
Some impressions -- comes in at a very short 79 mins. -- you can draw the obvious conclusions and you would be correct -- character development is at a bare bare minimum
If you are like me, you had a certain feeling while watching Blair Witch Project -- strangely I got the same feeling with OW -- in summary, after seeing it, I don't understand all the positive hype about it
Basically, it comes down to, why should I care? The movie didn't give me enough to care about these people lost IN sea ... note: not lost AT sea
Same BWP problems here ... no, it's not as bad as Day After Tomorrow, but it's pretty damn close in my book ... keep your money safe, this one is an F
August 19, 2004
Hurry up and wait
There's something about going on trips with tour groups -- you hurry up to get somewhere then you wait
You go down to meet the group at 5am, then you dont get on the bus until 6am
Oh yeah, and thanks to you Mr. Dumbshit and your bimbo gf for making us wait for your ass to leave the hotel -- oh, and then you had to get your coffee, FU!
Then you get to the airport, and wait for an hour more in a check-in line ... beautiful ... I don't see how all of this prevents terrorism
Then you get to the waiting room and jackasses galore take up two seats each with their carryons -- air travel, what a curse on humanity
Back on the plane for more physical pain
August 18, 2004
Last Day
It's quite funny ... there really is a place with aloha spirit -- and a place that claims to have it, but doesn't
For example, we went down to the Main Street buffet today at about 10:40 -- we stood there with about 20 others while workers walked by us for about 15 mins. -- INCLUDING the reception lady
Then finally she comes up to us and says we open for lunch at 11AM -- must have just slipped her memory
I think that I may be the curse of Eric Gagne -- yes, that EG -- the one that has blown very few saves in the past three seasons
The two blown saves that he has had since Aug 2002, I have watched from start to finish ... I am the curse of EG, sorry Dodger fans
August 17, 2004
Social Health
I can't say that this trip to LV has been the most fun in the world -- oh btw, I'm ready to build an ark
I'm not losing money or winning tons either -- what I found was weird today is that everything seems so run down
The people, the streets, the all in all about this place is very dead -- I know that many have escaped the rock to go live in the desert -- and who can blame them when a $1000 rental is like a GD palace
The past couple of days I've been watching baseball in the sportsbook -- and there are two homeless guys that are big bettors, who hang out there
And it's funny bc the workers know them, take their big bets everyday -- and no one blinks an eye about it
It's damn strange
August 16, 2004
Bizarro World
Ok, so I went on a trip to Bizarro Vegas this time ...
It has not been that hot -- and this is August -- more odd, is the pouring like a Biblical plague rain
The other thing is that for some reason I enjoy watching Red Sox games while I'm in Vegas -- and they are winning -- gosh this place is odd
August 15, 2004
Welcome back
... to the age of no telecommunications
There should be something to do besides gamble when you are waiting to get into your room to sleep off an awful plane ride
Downtown LV still does not have high speed -- well, I shouldn't say totally -- I mean, you can go to the one or two internet cafs and pay $5 for 15 mins.
I realize the reason is that they want you to gamble and spend little time in your room as possible
I kind of get irritated when I can't check mail and surf the web
August 14, 2004
The Cursed Initials
You know, there was a time when the initials VH meant something -- cool, great, and outstanding
Now, I think that everything that has the initials VH may have some problems
August 13, 2004
Quirky
We watched that Bridget Jones movie -- it's a pretty odd movie ... the narrative felt a bit disconnected and choppy. SD wanted to see it because she just finished reading the book -- said it was really kinda not like it at all -- isn't that odd?
It was very humid last night in Kaneohe -- also there was this kitten mewing all night, we thought it might be lost -- actually it got hit by a car, it survived very long in the middle of the street, that was kind of sad to find out
August 12, 2004
Frustrating
Sometimes I wonder why it is that things sometimes have to be so damn difficult -- it's almost ridiculous
August 11, 2004
It doesn't take much
To amuse me
In fact, I was fairly amused by listening to the remasters of Megadeth classic albums -- sounds really good now, in fact, now maybe he should do KillingIMB over again ... I can wish
I was watching Best Damn, and saw David Carradine as a guest -- man, that dude is quirky -- but that deleted scene they clipped was out of hand, shoot, that fight with "Kung Fu Mike" was damn cool -- I wonder why Q clipped it
It's funny how picky I can get -- I was enjoying the hell out of ESPN 2K5 for about 3 weeks -- then I hit that glitch that everyone was talking about, and I was so pist -- so I traded it in to get Madden, yeah exactly what I needed when I should be getting busy on some of my projects -- a timesucker
Yesterday, I heard a clip of some DJ Lethal with Chester B of LP -- interesting cut, too bad I forgot what the link was -- I think I found it on Blabbermouth.net so check there
August 10, 2004
WTF was I thinking
I think I lost my mind late this afternoon
Oh yeah, I can go to the Airport post office at 615pm ... yeah, that was no problem -- actually no lines either, was in and out
Oh, sorry you lose, TRAFFIC ... stupit
So then I have to go pickup my preorder from Software Etc -- that again, no problem -- was in and out
Oh, sorry the stupithet wants to go see CC as well ...
Wait forever to find parking ... get inside CC, pick up KB V2 ... Triumph the Insult Comic Dog was SOLD OUT ... and the CC staff is kind of well, let us say SPESHO ... yeah, in that Olympics way ... ever seen a guy with a jade bracelet? well if you haven't go to CC
AHHH, stupit!!!
So then I go to Tower, being powerfully moved to get the Triumph DVD ...
PEARL KAI AT NIGHT ... yeah I might as well park at the Stadium ... STUPITT!!!
So anyways, I get into Tower, pick up Triumph and the Outfoxed documentary ... and then for some reason, decide to wander around --- that was no good, as they had the Megadeth REMASTERS on sale
AHHH, where's my money, where's my mind
Where's my aloe? I'm sunburned
Changing weather
It's interesting, reading the promo material for Open Water -- It suggests how people have really high tech, high powered lives -- but nature is the great equalizer -- the great insignificanter (ha, as if that's a word)
We were out today at the lagoons at Koolina -- and it was pretty much scorching hot -- and I looked to the horizon and saw rain clouds forming and said it's gonna rain in a little while
Well, SD didn't believe me but then all of a sudden this rain squall came down on us -- and people went scurrying like ants back to their cars and out of there -- nature, so unpredictable -- as much as we are 'in control' of our lives, leave it to nature to disabuse us of that delusion
August 9, 2004
I forgot
Do people know how to read anymore? I sent an email to retail site with my specs -- they sent me back a list of items I might be interested in -- out of the 4, only 2 were in spec ... is it really so hard to say, we have only 2 matching items
Guess so
About a week or so ago, I saw this at White House West, featuring the funniest man in the USA, Will F. -- pretty funny stuff (Within)
August 8, 2004
Too good to be true
I believe the saying ends by saying that it probably is
I sit and wonder about the fire sale pricing involving this item that I want -- and before I say that I saw it on the internet -- you can't buy it on the internet, it's a mail order item
So I sit and wonder, gee, is it just that other places rip you off -- or is this place the true ripoff place -- it's funny because I've heard about this place as being reputable and I've heard radio ads about them for years now -- so I'm like, where's the catch? Umm, let's talk about the catch ... ha
Maybe I'm so used to being ripped off here in Hawaii (read as: S--VCO), no it's not a car but it's a good example
Well, I'm off to drink my $7 per gallon milk, while I consider things -- hahahahaha
August 7, 2004
Nasty Humidity
Ok, 10:30 at night 78% Humidity -- this is ridiculous
We watched the N/T episode from Tuesday night -- it was very good again. However, I get this feeling that they will eventually paint themselves into a corner by creating situations that will melt down the overall cohesiveness of the show -- but then again, what do I know?
I said I might talk a bit about The Village, well it's a bit too hot to think right now, so here are a few impressions.
1. The trailer and marketing give a very different impression than the movie itself -- in other words, it's not quite as scary as it's teased to be.
2. The all-star cast really doesn't have much to work with in terms of dialogue -- I don't know if creepy characters in a creepy situation is enough to move a movie -- Manoj sure tried it. Even though I liked the movie very much, it was like driving a Ferrari in 2nd gear -- all the talent for him to use, yet so little gleaned from it -- I mean, William Hurt, Sigourney Weaver, the guy from The Pianist, Joaquin Phoenix (who seems to only frown in M's movies) -- the horses were all there
3. It's a very simple tale that takes an unexpected turn at the end -- that's not saying much, but I beleive it is an accurate description -- the joy of MNS movies is that he sucks the viewer in with atmosphere and situations, and creates life-like feeling -- I think if you go along for the ride, it's a fun distraction for two hours (no more, no less)
4. The last point is one of personal observation -- as a person, do you like to be in on the joke? or when the joke is on you, do you go -- no that's stupid the joke couldn't be on me -- or do you go ah, i get it -- ok, you got me
Just impressions.
August 6, 2004
Taking it back
You know what I mean ...
Been enjoying the new downloads from Metallica 's European tour, especially the Donington show where Lars was ill -- and Dave Lombardo of Slayer, Joey Jordison of Slipknot, and Flemming stepped in
It was kind of a messy quality show but a unique listen -- tonight, SD and I went to see The Village -- I can see why it had mixed reviews, but we really liked it a lot (maybe I'll write something up tom'w)
Man this humidity sucks, rain already!
August 4, 2004
Out of sorts
Not feeling well at all today ... I don't know, maybe it was getting audio crushed by the Who last night
Who'll stop the rain? Been raining pretty much HARD since 4 am this morning
Just a blah day
Early morning rain
My ears are still ringing from The Who show concluded a few hours ago -- once dubbed the loudest rock band ever by the Guiness Book of World Records -- this was a very loud show
I feel very fortunate to have seen many of the icons of rock and the icons of my lifetime live in concert -- tonight was no exception, another exceptional performance by the faces of the Who, Roger and Pete
For someone nearing 60, Pete has incredible energy in his performance, and can chop it up with the best -- some of the sounds he pulled from his guitar were just amazing -- It's hard to say that he has slowed down even a bit
Roger was Roger -- spinning the mic by the cord, posing and gesturing -- and hitting those notes, and having that Roger Daltrey rock god voice
I guess one never really adds 2 and 2 together in life -- but drummer Zac Starkey aka Ringo Starr's kid is one of the best kept secrets in rock and roll -- he has a ferocity and technicality that is comparable to the best of the live rock era -- yes, I am comparing him to Keith Moon and John Bonham -- he doesn't quite have Bonham's weighty sound, but the agility on the rolls and the thunder from the bass -- amazing young drummer
It may sound odd to the older Who fans, but I really dug the blues jammy version of Eminence Front -- I think that video was the first music I heard from the Who on MTV -- I had heard that the group had plucked that one of the hardly played live 1982 album and was playing it in Aus and JPN -- cool that they played it here
But all the hits were here from "I Can't Explain", "Won't Get Fooled Again", "My Generation", "Behind Blue Eyes", "Pinball Wizard", "Who Are You", "You Better You Bet", and quite a few more -- really fun 2 1/2 hour ROCK SHOW
It was great to finally see two more of the pantheon of rock gods
(Now if only I can see Sabbath live and Page and Plant ... I really better get on this, these guys aren't getting any younger)
August 3, 2004
More musings
This time from music
Oh, wow, I was a bit blown away by the expectations of the manga class -- it was almost as if we had to hit the ground running, with technique, etc. in hand
I was looking at Michael Anthony's photo journal of the Van Hagar reunion tour -- I take it from the pics that shit still ain't very cool between Red and Mike and the VH bros.
Ok, you know how fans always say why don't you make a "Name of Album II" then I would buy the album -- well, in a land where you see everything before you die -- and I mean EVERYTHING -- working title for Queensryche's new album -- yep, Operation Mindcrime 2 ... we'll go put it next to Unforgiven 2 as one of the poorest ideas for titling music
On a side note, on QR's new tour they will be doing OPMC in its entiriety as a big production aspect of a show featuring mostly their greatest hits
On that note, Slayer is doing the whole RIB during its current tour -- ok, so why are these bands not coming to paradiso -- WHY
I'm not totally sold on buying it, but I definitely remember Live Aid -- well, Bob Geldof of the Boomtown Rats (yeah, put that one in your old MTV) is FINALLY releasing like a 20th anniv DVD of the Live Aid shows -- at the time, it had some "reunion" sets, including Ozzy and Black Sabbath, the 3 remaining of Led Zeppelin -- well, Led has decided not to release its performance to the DVD, citing poor quality -- I say, that sucks ass
August 2, 2004
Question
Was our generation as poor at customer service as this new one is?
Who knew? And I thought checking someone out, meant just that ... checking someone out
I feel like a chicken without a head this morning ... hmm, perhaps I shouldn't have stayed up so late last night goofing off
I went to Office Max this morning to go get padded envelopes, and it turned into a shopping spree -- why??? -- because I'm crazy, I guess
Actually, I looked at my art supplies in my desk and realized that there is not much you can do with a 2-inch drawing pencil from 1987, or with inker pens that are bone dry
Has it really been that long since I drew something of quality ... man, the days have passed since I submitted my art book to Paris for grading for International Baccalaureate
So I bought all this updated art stuff, hopefully I'll use them up by the end of this week ... ha -- yeah, or else I'll find them in 2021 all dried out
Anyways, I have been on a 80s hard rock kick -- I needed to buy more CD-Rs so I went over to CompUsa for the 2 for 1 50 pak sale -- now I can torture peeps with my 80s hard rock mix -- Krokus, RATT, Great White, Bullet Boys -- mwahahahahahahahaha
Well, off to the post office and to manga class
August 1, 2004
Goat Like
It may not have been the greatest decision to go at 2PM ... but SD and I walked the Lanikai Hills trail
Hot, hot, very hot -- and dusty
Oh yeah, and virtually all uphill -- then coming back downhill it's like dirt skiing
It's funny because the hardcore trail people refer to it as very easy, I suppose if you don't mind taking a slide or two on your butt -- hey, youre a tough trail mountain goat or something
It is very scenic, you get to see on both sides of the Koolau Mountain ridge -- the islands on the ocean side, and the inner valley on the mountain side
All in all, a pretty fun thing to do in the afternoon for a few hours
July 31, 2004
Day 6 of 7
Late night note:
Seeing what a quality operation we run here ... with ATTENTION TO DETAIL ... ooh yeah, sure --- We have fixed the link to the JibJab JK and El Busho singalong Flash from 7/28 .. pretty funny stuff
July 30, 2004
Last of the Famous
... website squatters.
It was quite funny, I was looking to see if Kerry-Edwards had their own self named website. Well, it turns out kerryedwards is owned by Kerry Edwards
And he is auctioning off the site for six figures ... sometimes there is luck in a name, I guess
July 29, 2004
Captured
Well, finally, I'm on the bandwagon -- that acceptance speech by JK, was good but not perfect
But it was the one that I needed to hear, the one that put my confidence in his candidacy, the one that touched chords of hope within me
Some interesting things I noticed:
At the very end, the CNN coverage featured a balloon and confetti malfunction -- and an FCC moment from the feed
Very interesting choice of celebration music -- the overused "Beautiful Day" from U2 -- and if you can believe it 5150's "Dreams" from Van Halen
What's Next?
I feel the best have already stepped to the plate and jerked the curtain at the Democratic Convention -- In many ways, John Kerry is going to have a very hard time following what were three outstanding nights of speeches
I thought in particular the messages of John Edwards (still our favorite at SL) and Barack Obama summed up what people are feeling, even if in their heart they are yet to feel that JK can deliver it
Deliver what?
Get America back its hope
Late night musings
So, in the past few days, I finally watched Blood of the Samurai and Once Upon A Time in Mexico
I was wondering to myself who is the master of the gonzo action film -- BOTS was really campy, but considering the shoestring budget, I liked what Aaron did
With Robert Rodriguez, with each film, he has put more budget in, and this has resulted in better cinematography, colors, and shots -- the thing I liked particularly about El Mariachi was the humor and the loose easy feel of it. Once Upon was an entertaining movie, the trilogy has gotten progressively stiffer as time goes on -- in this case, maybe the slickness does detract a bit from the overall trio
I think I liked best the blend of Hong Kong and gonzo in Kill Bill, Vol. 1 -- the advantage I think Q has over many of his contemporaries is that he has the mind to put together compelling situations/quirky dialogue along with the high paced action
Oh well, that was really a lot of characters for nothing said ... hahaha
July 28, 2004
And you could be ...
An owner of Google stock -- It's very interesting how this dot com investing thing has circled around from not much information, high price, bust around ten years ago -- to sound fundamentals, high price, and profitability -- just selling 0s and 1s, just selling 0s and 1s
Happy Birthday to Mrs P ... thanks for dinner last night, that was nice
It's not happening
Before I begin my tirade of the morning, it's about time everyone, every single one of you ... take a look at what's sweeping the nation .. yes, the JibJab "This Land Is Your Land" satire featuring El Busho and Hermie Munster
It's kind of interesting -- I've listened to all the R sniping -- I've listened to all the pro-Kerry stuff, too.
I just can't get my mind around JK
I don't feel like voting for the incumbent administration, in fact, I have found that in recent memory I cannot think of an administration that I have more profoundly disliked
But JK -- he feels like Star Wars Episode I toys -- like everyone was so hyped initially -- and a few months later, it was in the bargain bin -- and you couldn't pay someone to take one
And you know why, it's like anything in our lives -- an intellectual connection is good for learning things like calculus -- to like a person, you need an emotional connection -- and JK I STILL don't know you yet
Isn't that weird, I see him everyday on TV, I hear news reports -- I could actually tell you as an intellectual matter, what his positions are on this and that -- but I don't feel like I know him
It's very odd but I have a semi-negative impression of JK -- this is the person who ordered Swiss at a Philly Cheesesteak stand -- this is the person who on Sunday I saw MISS A HIGH 5 -- and apparently being at a Red Sox - Yankees game was more important to do than ... and I ain't even holding it against you that you were cheering for the wrong team
Even though I was a strong supporter of John Edwards campaign during the primary season -- I'm not giving it up to JK just because -- just because I got an email from Bubba yesterday, I'm still not giving it up to JK
There are just some things in life that you want to death to like, and it just doesn't happen --- I'm thinking this is one of them
July 25, 2004
Suckers IS Us
I don't remember at what point this week I learned that Ep III would be called REVENGE OF THE SITH ... In fact, I saw the font style of it, and hmmm, surprise surprise it looks like Return of the Jedi -- well curiously George is selling T's to celebrate the announcement ... of the title, we have not come very far since 1983, and some would call it going backwards
I know yesterday I was grumbling about Radiohead -- and you know what, I really liked the straightforward rock of their early albums -- I will blame myself and say that I don't dig experimental JO all that much
I am also listening to some CDs that I bought a year ago, and sticking the reviews here and there on my site as easter eggs -- ooh, treasure -- HA!
And if you can't find them, don't sweat it -- none of them are particularly outstanding
It was very odd, but with all the N/T overload -- I had to have my dose of Miami so I plopped the Vice City back in the PS2 for the first time in months and had a blast -- damn, that game has such a damn cool 80s soundtrack -- from JP "Another Thing Coming" to Tears for Fears "Pale Shelter" to MJ's "Billie Jean ... just awesome sounds to accompany an awesome game
July 24, 2004
Nip Tuck weekend
It's been pretty scorching here in paradiso the past several days -- in many ways, I miss the rains of the early part of this year. Those right now could really cool us down
The entertainment from last night to tonight has been watching Nip/Tuck on DVD -- this is one of the most underrated cable shows on TV. I think that it is easy for critics to dismiss it because of its language and use of nudity and sex
However, the situations are very interesting, the acting is above average, and the surgeries are discovery channel gruesome -- and the people are so frail even though they are in the vanity biz
I had thought that I would squeeze in some Twin Peaks this weekend -- but N/T is filling in just fine
July 23, 2004
A promise to me
I know that some people make very serious promises to themselves, like quitting smoking, finding a reason to lose weight, change their life, etc.
I've been promising myself for a long time now to watch the Cameron Crowe commentary on Vanilla Sky with Nancy Wilson (of Heart? could be, the guitar playing in the background gives it away) -- but I still haven't gotten past the first 30 mins.
Instead, I have been messing around on my computer with new browsers because there are some issues with Safari that irk me -- I have also been maintaining my eBay auctions
People have very deep passions about certain musical artists, and I do mine -- in fact, I find my tastes are very kitschy 80s metal -- and I have come to embrace that -- I do wonder deeply if I am missing something when I listen to my Radiohead and Coldplay CDs -- oh well, that's what iTunes and eBay is for, no?
So when Radiohead decides to dust off "Creep" and play it live again -- I think that's when I'll stop doubting what my ears hear and stop chasing down "critical acclaimed" pieces of plastic
July 22, 2004
Nostalgia kick
Is it super hot, or is it just me? -- ha
Anyways, I must be some kind of nostalgia kick, I've been watching old episodes of the Superfriends with the Legion of Doom, I was watching the Batman animated series (man, that was done well -- too bad the transfer sucks on the DVDs, hello it's degrading REALLY FAST -- get to remaster)
I was also watching old episodes of the classic Spidey cartoon -- it's really shitty animation, but it holds up pretty good in terms of story -- I was pleasantly surprised
I am so damn tempted to get the new Teen Titans Bandai "comic book page" action figure set -- because it uses a pseudo-Japanime style -- it's pretty hella cool in my op -- only thing is I can't get it for cheap
Actually overall, I have been tempted lately by Jim Lee's Hush Batman figures, a Japanese Dark Knight figure set that costs like 60 bucks but looks gd cool, and have been wanting to get the Giant X-Men Minimates that has the new lineup of the Xmen -- you know, Storm, Colossus, Thunderbird, Nightcrawler, etc
I feel overconsumptive -- I went to suncoast for something, and was sucked in by a sale on Batman Kubricks and those Pulp Fiction GEOMs
July 21, 2004
Some people
Are very inconsiderate
I don't know what to say about the getovskis at the Kunia WalMart -- here I was expecting to just pick up my S-cable and a sig amp ... and then trot my way back home
oh no, it can never be that simple
I literally waited 5 mins to get back into my car -- because these inconsiderate young jerks pretended that they didn't hear me, pretended they didn't see me ... and left all the car doors open on their passenger side ... while they tried to fit a futon in the back seat of an Escort -- and then it got even better as they fought with each other over finding a cell phone, who was making their backseat messy, etc
It really never occurs to me that some people are shits -- but every so often you get reminded
Be glad that your parents taught you class and consideration
odds and ends
Over the past year, I have been asked questions about this site. So to answer some of the FAQs --
Yes, this is a blog.
I write about whatever I want.
I do it because it's fun
Thanks to sheri for turning us at the Luau on to Gretchen -- for those of you who don't know Gretchen, click on the banner in the right column and check them out. They have previously toured with Stryper and have a sound that if you like Evanescence, you probably will dig their heavy style of music with female vox -- and good message
July 20, 2004
In Memory of Uncle
White Ashes by Rennyo
When I deeply contemplate the transient nature of human life,
I realize that, from beginning to end, life is impermanent like an illusion.
We have not yet heard of anyone who lived ten thousand years.
How fleeting is a lifetime!
Who in this world today can maintain a human form
For even a hundred years?
There is no knowing whether I will die first or others,
Whether death will occur today or tomorrow.
We depart one after another more quickly
Than the dewdrops on the roots or the tips of the blades of grasses.
So it is said.
Hence, we may have radiant faces in the morning,
But by evening we may turn into white ashes.
Once the winds of impermanence have blown,
Our eyes are instantly closed and our breath stops forever.
Then, our radiant face changes its color,
And the attractive countenance like peach and plum blossoms is lost.
Family and relatives will gather and grieve, but all to no avail?
Since there is nothing else that can be done,
They carry the deceased out to the fields,
And then what is left after the body has been cremated
And has turned into the midnight smoke is just white ashes.
Words fail to describe the�sadness of it all.
Thus the ephemeral nature of human existence�
Is such that death comes to young and old alike without discrimination.
So we should all quickly take to heart
The matter of the greatest importance of the afterlife,
Entrust ourselves deeply to Amida Buddha, and recite the Nembutsu.
Humbly and respectfully.
Uncle, may you rest in peace.
Your love and support over the years has meant a lot to my life and to your family. We will miss you, but know that you are now in a better place.
Raining heroes
Ok, so we have been fairly blessed with better than decent superhero movies of late ... X2 and Spidey 2 ... and Catwoman comes out this week or something, but it looks kind of dumb
I heard a rumor on Monday about the director and his team from X-Men/X2 doing the new Superman film ... that sounds like that is in good hands
I don't know much about the Batman Begins movie outside of the fact that Christian Bale is in it ... and if the rumors are true, we will have ourselves a Green Lantern movie
With JACK BLACK as GL ... this I gotta see
July 19, 2004
How stupid we look when we complain
I was at CC today to go pick up my new TV as my old one is on its last legs --- so I am waiting there as this Japanese guy complains and nearly burst a vein in his head about his two items that he had to return
The woman was trying to explain to him that there was only one left and that he couldn't get a replacement 2 ... so she offered him back his money and said that the mgmt declared that batch a damaged batch
He goes, it's not my problem, it's your problem -- I guess he wanted 2 good items -- too bad JC wasn't there to do his bread and fish magic
I was curious to see how one new and probably broken item could be made magically into 2 perfectly functioning items -- ah well, the miracle worker has not walked the earth in 2000 or so years -- and thanks to that guy for burning off 30 mins of my lifespan, I appreciate that
July 18, 2004
Terror at 10000 feet
Just came back from a weekend on the Friendly Isle for SD's family reunion ... beyond playing with our lives by riding an 8 seat prop plane, it was very relaxing
I think it made me realize how much my life is mediated by technology -- over there, there are no malls, no traffic lights, I could have probably laid on the street outside SD's grandma's house (which is a main drag btw) and gotten a severe sunburn before getting hit by a car -- no street lights, no nothing
The next reunion in two years will be back there again, who knows if we are going -- we just couldn't find enough to do to entertain ourselves -- perhaps the planning committee should add more structure and activities
July 17, 2004
Parade of the oddities
You know what's weird about the Friendly Isle -- no one locks their doors, their cars, their anything
I didn't see a cop at all in the past 24 hours, and there are no street lights or whatever -- once the sun is down, that's it for ambient light
There is such a grand diversity of people in this family -- everyone from a cousin who looks like the Spooky Reverend (and is a girl!!! ... and is an exotic dancer) ... to people who are way younger than SD and I who have many kids
I haven't been too thrilled so far with the food -- I haven't eaten so much cold food that should be hot since ... well, I can't think of it ... I think it is why I've been feeling queasy this morning
But everyone here is very welcoming, and that is very nice
July 16, 2004
The weekend begins
Well, I had a terror filled flight in a little charter prop plane today -- talk about turbulence, ICK
We went straight to the family picnic ... yum yum, cold hot food -- well, it was that or starving
The highlight of the night was a presentation by one of the members of the Polynesian Voyaging Society -- under a sea of stars, now that was hella cool
Ever been in a place with no cable in the year 2004, hard times
July 14, 2004
Trivialities
Well, I went to go talk to my former boss today about his job opportunity -- it sounds very interesting ... he gave me some time to think about it, and it doesn't seem like it will kick off immediately ... so I will think it over while I slow down at the Friendly Isle this weekend
I think that I am numb about Laker related things ... today Shaq was traded to South Beach for virtually nothing in return ... and the hot rumor is that Kobe 8 won't be back either ... you know, after Phil was let go, I had a feeling that it would all fall into the sea -- as prideful things often do ... it's really hard to enjoy my team right now (and it's not a bandwagon issue as much as it is a multiple jackassitude issue)
I think at the end of the day I am growing to realize that it grows harder each year to be a fan of professional sports of any kind ... because I grow increasingly dissatisfied with egos, money, selfishness, and power plays
I am on the other hand enjoying playing the new NCAA Football game on my PS2 -- its a great time waster
July 13, 2004
Faith or coincidence
I have been praying a great deal about my current situation -- in essence asking for guidance as to the right way.
Out of the blue today, one of my bosses from 4 years ago called me up and offered a job to me -- I was tripping out because I had lost contact with him and really had no idea what he was up to
I am stunned by the whole matter, but am very grateful -- amazing
July 12, 2004
Finally finished
Well, tonight I finally got through watching the Jerry Seinfeld documentary, Comedian
I had made 4 or 5 passes at it prior and couldn't make it through the first 20 minutes -- honestly, because it was too close to home
After watching the movie, I came to some really interesting thoughts -- ok, here is this guy with massive talent, ability and riches -- and he totally questions himself, is insecure, and has to work at what he does
And at the end of the day, he is no closer to finding peace than I am -- towards the end of the movie, he talked to Bill Cosby and got his stuff straightened out
I feel like I've heard a message from watching it tonight -- that is, do what you love to do --- and if you have an opportunity to do that, enjoy it because it is a gift to find it
July 11, 2004
Gratitude
Today was not really filled with many exciting things ... it was a time for me for reflection on some things and people that I am grateful for
I was shocked this weekend to hear of my sitter's husband passing on ... he was really a great man, and it is so unfortunate that he never got to enjoy his retirement ... we went over today to visit and I think we all are just really shocked about the suddenness of it all and that we have lost a really great person ... RIP
I went with janitor to see two movies this weekend ... with mixed results (as you can see below) ... but I am just thankful to have friends like janitor, a really wonderful gf in SD, a great family
We really are not promised tomorrow ... so as I deal with some of the issues that bug me about career, etc ... there is a larger issue that has come into my awareness and that is ... enjoy life for what it is, love the people that you are fortunate to have in your life, and try to live rather than chase down stuff ... because all we have is a waking present
July 7, 2004
Interesting discussion
I went to the mall today with my mom ... she wanted to go buy some new walking shoes and there was a sale at the local Federated Dept Store
During lunch, the topic of why SD went to the mainland for the week came up ... so I told my mom what was going on ... after which, I was very surprised with her response to that information
She had encouraged me that I should do the same if I wanted to ... I have no inclination to do it
By do it, I do not mean to go on a vacation ... I just have never been very intrigued by my shadowy origins ... SD lately has come in contact with the two people who brought her to life, and I think that it is very positive for her to finally get some closure on these issues
For me, I discovered I already feel content and closed with what I already know and the life I already have
July 6, 2004
What were we thinking
I remember watching a national cartoon program called TV POW on the old superstation WTBS (of course, many of you are more familiar with the local version with Prof. Fun)
I remember that the announcer on the show had told us that the US had beaten the USSR 4-3 at Lake Placid ... this is surprising that I remember this of all things from being 9 years old
Well I finally saw Miracle recently on DVD and I think it really captures the FOG OF (THE COLD) WAR of that era in American history really well ... I don't really remember too much about being a child of the 80s except living in the shadow of atomic fear, Reagan, and the USSR --- it is very hard to appreciate nowadays the reality of how we felt fear about the Soviet Union
The USSR ... I remember when they used to dominate athletic competitions ... and yeah there was the drugs allegations, but ... wow, they really took athletics seriously and did very well --- that's why I was so excited to watch the DELAYED telecast of the hockey game
The movie is partly a comrades in arms to fulfill a quest movie ... and I think nowadays a lot of the younger people wouldn't really understand what it meant to defeat the USSR at something ... but the movie stands on its own kind of like a Hoosiers Light, the underdogs learning to play together can beat a superior team
It's a feel good movie that I enjoyed a lot, and no you don't have to know a thing about hockey to enjoy it -- it's just that old plot from entertainment from time immemorial ... a quest with hardships along the way
July 1, 2004
Time to kill
It's interesting that right now It's About Time is playing on KNAC ... I think it's the first time I've listened to it with an open mind -- well, that is, one that is dulled by medication ... haha
And, umm, It's Still Not Very Good
Well, it's been awhile since I wrote anything, and my site is laying out goofy -- because I didn't spend that much time laying it out -- so I shall fill in with stuff I've jotted down about this and that so that my site is not an eye sore
June 21, 2004
Humidity II
Wow, taking tennis lessons in the soaking humidity just sucks the life out of you -- and I thought I was tired after work -- I feel very thirsty and worked over now
Today at work I realized that the way I feel about my super is no different than most of the people in my dept. -- I guess what it comes down to is whether I want to deal with it or not -- I guess as you get older you get more conservative and dont want to be jumping from this job to another
I have to say that if one of my government job opportunities comes through, I may just jump ship because the extra money just isn't justifying my growing unease and lack of enthusiasm
June 20, 2004
Humidity
Happy Father's Day to those men who give life and guidance to our lives
And happy big 30 to chocolate mochi maker -- time sure flies
June 19, 2004
Alternative Days
Today we had an interesting day ... the first part of the day we went to a birthday party for one of SD's high school friends at the contemporary art museum in Makiki
Part of the party was an art activity involving watercolor -- that was a great deal of fun
June 17, 2004
Lies and the lying liars
As an initial matter, CM --- I hope for you the most speedy recovery, I am wearing yellow for you -- you really make my work days worthwhile
Dough-bull ...
It was very interesting today -- I know that the matter of the university prez's firing has been on many people's minds this week
Well, I got an inner circle scoop on it -- and although I did feel a bit abused as a "shoulder" or an ear to rationalize another's behavior
This is what I feel about it all -- the relationship has been going poorly for a long while now -- there is a "blame game" aspect to it that will get worse in the near future, trust me on this one --> it's spelled A-C-C-R-E-D ... you figure out the rest -- and I think that both sides have really bungled it badly, really badly
And the bungling puts our school at risk -- and that is the most unfortunate aspect of it all, that the students will suffer b/c people couldn't get along -- it's not politics, it's not competence
It's a simple matter of knowing how to treat others with respect, dignity, and trust -- in that respect, no one in this ugly situation is blameless
June 16, 2004
Another thing entirely
You know, I had written something totally different here ... I decided to change it -- because no one enjoys a grumbler, whiner, and complainer
I have figured out what my problem is at work ... and that's that -- life goes on, and it is good
Thanks to K-Stay for the hook on Utada, she is really an easy listen -- good stuff -- on another note, I am really enjoying Prince's Musicology CD, it's a pretty well focused set that makes my ears happy
I've finally watched the Van Helsing anime thing -- and it makes me wonder about why all these movies have anime prequels -- I am thinking about checking out the Peter Chung (Mr. Aeon Flux) anime for RIDDICK, but if the VH one is any indication, it might be marginal
I was making out my interested in purchasing list today -- and I trashed it -- too many things -- and it's not even about money -- it's about the whys of the matter -- and the whys don't add up right now -- so I will pass on consumption this week
June 15, 2004
Just tired
It's been awhile since I've felt so exhausted at night -- well, I'm going to sleep early tonight
Congratulations to the Pistons who played every bit as champions and more importantly played team basketball -- which is very rare in this era of the NBA superstar
As for the Lakers, I think this is the end of the road for this crew -- so thanks to everyone who was a part of this very successful 5 year run -- as a fan, it was a very enjoyable and memorable run
June 14, 2004
Managing
To outthink myself again ... or something my "manager" does incredibly poorly
June 13, 2004
Relaxing Day
This morning SD and I tried to play some tennis
Well actually what we do is hit balls -- well, playing on concrete after heavy rains is probably dangerous, stupid -- but it still was pretty okay given that it was kind of wet
(ed.note (6/14): the lessons on Monday were actually pretty fun -- HOT under the freeway off ramp in Moanalua though, but fun nonethless)
The rest of the day I spent resting and enjoying a relaxing afternoon -- the Lakers are dying a particularly ugly, whiny death -- I thought they played well in the 1st half, but lost their cool in the 2nd and were crushed down the stretch -- mercifully this will all end Tuesday
I also got to squeeze in some Outer Limits watching, that is such the underrated show -- too bad it's run on SciFi and Showtime has ended -- it was such a good blend of sci-fi and gothic horror -- it's way too much goodness
June 12, 2004
Gas costs how much?
It's really interesting because one of my good friends and co-workers has a hybrid car -- and overall it has a pretty cool upright computer display
Well, we went out to the North Shore today to a boutique -- it's funny b/c I just don't think certain white people really realize how deep the racism runs in their veins -- the store owner shot me a lot of stink eye, like I didn't have money or something -- like locals are not allowed -- hey, why should I make excuses for her subconscious prejudice
We ate brunch at Cholo's -- it's certainly not world shatteringly good, but it's not bad either -- if I had to pick, I would say Banditos last week was by far the better mexican food experience
This evening we went to Little Chill at Rumours -- it always surprises me how old that crowd is -- it's even older than I am -- and I am getting up there
The thing that I must grow to accept is that I am growing increasingly intolerant of alcohol -- I didn't drink that much, didn't get that buzzed, but later that evening felt a bit nauseous and uncomfortable -- dunno why, it may be a sign -- not of overindulgence, but just changing body chemistry
June 11, 2004
Fun day ...
Cheap day
Well today was a holiday -- and what we did was very fun and cheap
We walked through Waikiki -- and it was not very fun or scenic, as most of Kuhio is under repair
At Niketown, we bought some cancer support bands ... you can see them at wearyellow.com -- they cost a $1 each
We walked back up the street and decided to eat lunch at Cheesecake Factory -- we were very surprised that it was so busy at 3 in the afternoon -- but food was pretty good, and of course the cheesecake is excellent
After that, we went to go see Jersey Girl -- and at the end of the day, it's really different from most Kevin Smith movies -- yes, it has the actors that have always appeared in KS movies, well, no Jay and Silent Bob this time --
The movie is pretty straightforward and sweet -- point A to point B, and you feel good about it at the end -- it's a B, we saw it for $1 at Restaurant Row -- very good bang for the buck, I would say its a rental at least, but here its cheaper to see it
Overall very fun day, not too expensive, lots of quality time spent -- today was a good day
June 10, 2004
So Far, Part II
The FAKE Show
On the eve of the 3 game set in the murder capital of the USA, let�s get one thing perfectly straight --- even from this longtime Showtime fan --- De-twa has shown itself to be the SUPERIOR team thus far in the NBA Finals, even if it is locked up at 1 � so I don�t buy any of this the Lakers woke up now crap � even they must show this long time fan that they can play with urgency and focus in the remainder of the series if they are to even remain competitive with the Pistons
(ed.note: I am almost ashamed to be a Laker fan with the effort they gave tonight, that was the most embarrassing NO EFFORT performance -- can't blame the bench this time � do you need to be reminded that you are playing for a championship?!!??!?!?! piss me off
On the other hand, I do not take anything away from the Pistons who should be up 3-0 at this point -- they have simply dominated the Lakers in all aspects of the games -- I give them as much credit even though I am growing thoroughly disappointed with the competitive effort so far by my team)
June 9, 2004
A day for quick hops
I pretty much hopped from place to place today -- and spent little to no time at the office
At the end of the day this does put me behind the 8-ball for tomorrow morning -- again, I believe we should keep things under control that we can control
Who should control --- hmmm -- a manager, maybe?
And on a lighter note, I am among the few without AI show tix for the 3 shows, but ginger senbei is still good -- whatever that means
June 8, 2004
Where did this day go?
I cannot recall much of this day at all -- suffice it to say, it was much more tolerable than yesterday's late afternoon fiasco
On a lighter note, it was nothing short of amazing, the Lake Show's comeback to even up the series with de-twa
Unbelievable Notes:
Bob Sapp, yes that Bob Sapp -- the extreme fighter/kickboxer will be in the Elektra movie -- and no, not as Kingpin
LA and NFL football in 2008
Ed VH with a kinda mohawk looking do -- go figure
Get well Lars -- and the show must go on with many different drummers
Saw the new trailer for Michael Moore's movie -- interesting but didn't really grab me
June 7, 2004
Peter Principle
Surely many more knowledgeable than me have noticed the effect of promoting from within when upper level people leave organizations
All I can say about that is this, just because you know how to cook doesn't make you a professional chef
Not all of us deserve upward advancement -- it has been a source of MAJOR frustration today for me -- it is one of the great mistakes of corporate HR and management here
June 6, 2004
Relaxing Day
Overall today was the day I was looking for -- one day to recharge and refocus
Someone remind the Lake Show that nothing is handed to you -- except your ass if you don't take care of business -- DE-TWA -- UNO to NADA
I think I shall watch some V3 in a little while -- warthog magnet guy, my favorite villain (note: I was wrong, it was squid-fire guy and TV-fly guy -- kinda boring ep actually)
June 5, 2004
Just tired
I really am feeling it today -- I fell asleep during the afternoon for about a good 3 hours or so, and tonight I was pretty blah -- we went to go exercise, and afterwards I was just totally emotionally flat
This week has apparently been more taxing than I could ever imagine
And the good news is that janitor seems to have got the gig with Ms. Mari, that's very cool -- that's very good, I think she'll be very happy with what he can do with her site -- very cool, congratulations
June 4, 2004
A bit much
Well, today was fairly busy at work, it seems like we have been running around like crazy -- we are short handed due to it being the vacation season
I am beginning to think I should take it a bit more easy when I get home from work -- all this painting this, and modding that, and tweaking this, and working that -- is becoming to seem like a second job more than a fun hobby
Hopefully this weekend can be a bit more on the relaxing than active side, I think I need to rest a bit
Oh well, at least next week is another short week too, so I guess that is good
June 3, 2004
Ever get that feeling ...
That your elected officials just don't get it
Ok, fact #1 -- this scientist guy did a traffic study for Honolulu, and found that our speed limits probably could easily go up to 70 MPH with no additional increases in fatal and severe crashes -- and it was not uncommon to see cars going 75 and 80 with no adverse effects to other drivers
Fact #2 -- there was a bill signed into law by the Gov that allows for you license to be taken away FOR UP TO 5 YEARS if you are caught going 90 MPH
Now tell me, what is wrong with this picture? Shouldn't there have to be something BAD happening to justify such draconian measures -- like a crash or death -- I don't think speeding kills, its the crashes -- get a clue time for our elected officials
June 2, 2004
Dubious Dubious
Well after being confronted lately on how peoples' tastes can widely vary -- on such simple matters as whether the Day after Tomorrow sucked ass or not
I confront another issue -- I am often given the gas for liking two sports teams that are successful at present -- despite my defense that I've liked both of them since I was a child ...
It makes me wonder -- particularly with respect to one team that I am very familiar with -- they have a silver and black motif
I know a lot of their fans from the younger generation -- now, the SNB have pretty much been non-factors for most of the past 20 years
So what is it? I think it's because you want to be a bad ass -- well, I think that one's choice in sports teams doesn't really make you a bad ass -- in fact, I think it kind of is indicative of some major self-esteem issues -- I know some legit fans of this team -- but the coolios need to get a clue
May 31, 2004
Thanks
Thank you to all those who paid the ultimate price in the primes of their lives so I can do what I do and enjoy freedoms -- thank you
As a second thank you:
As I have been editing and cleaning up my blog, I just wanted to thank everyone who has participated and made it fun for me -- except the Godsmack fans -- hahaha, kidding peace peace ... sheesh, you guys are hardcore -- but yeah, thanks to all who read and contribute to the Internet Dark Carnival of Idiocy, we appreciate it
May 30, 2004
The Warranty is VOIDED
I spent a nice chunk of the day working with Tamiya acrylics and changing the color of the case of my X-box. It was quite humbling, I suck at laying out paints evenly, so it was paint, sand, paint, sand -- ok, you get the picture
Oh yeah, if you paint your X-box, your warranty is voided -- for what reason, I don't know -- oh yeah, it's a Gates of Hell company -- that's right
And the thing that pissed me off today -- do they not want big people to see -- here's what I mean, all the frames are getting tinier and tinier -- that's all nice and good if you have the head of a six year old
Ok, so if you have a full grown head, you go -- shit, nothing fits me without customization that will cost an additional chunk of money -- umm, I don't see people getting smaller -- whose fucking shrunken heads are these going on anyways?!?!?!?!?! STUPIT!!!
P.S.
Don't waste your money on the absolute SUCKFEST that is: The Day After Tomorrow -- NO MORE WORDS -- F!!!
May 24, 2004
Sometimes I wonder
Well, I missed V3 again on Sunday -- this is turning into a trend
I guess it may just be that I will just buy the DVDs when they come out in 2013 ... ha
May 23, 2004
Weekend Time Waster
Ok, so it's another Sunday -- and although I'm not dreading going back to work -- I can't wait for the 3-day weekend next week
Late last night I decided to use SD's idea in the Super-X project and use nail polish to paint my clear acrylic jewel with for the case -- actually it has turned out pretty darn good -- I fuzzed it abit to look more like a pen and ink drawing -- kinda rough looking, but cool
More to come
May 22, 2004
Quirks
It seems SD's G4 laptop has the infamous logic board problems -- and though it is frustrating as hell to figure out what it is -- it is quite spectacular to visually look at, because it ghosts the display, pixelates the screen into many pretty colors, and then draws a series of thick black, parallel 1/16th inch lines up and down on the display -- she wouldn't find this funny, I do find it a somewhat humorous display of tech meltdown -- well, it's still on warranty so let's see what the RedFruitStore can do with it
May 21, 2004
Big Green: Two Things
SD and I went to go see Shrek 2 tonight -- and although it kind of didn't suck me in immediately from the onset -- in other words, they threw alot of cool stuff on the screen but it didn't really catch you immediately like the original, I will now refer to that as the G.Lucas problem (too much cool shit, not much cool story)
May 20, 2004
Ironies and Happenstance
It's quite funny, the things you never really expect kind of flow together in ways that you never knew would, could, should -- well, anyways, I never think that some things will turn out the way that they do -- but they do, and it seems like there is some kind of grand design at work
As an example, one of my old work friends helped me to find the job I'm at currently -- now we are advocating for two other people to come on as well to fill needed positions because in my opinion we are understaffed some places and a bit underskilled in others
Well, it turns out that one more thing will come to pass -- I had been turned on to a blog ring by my pal the janitor and one of those ringers will be coming on where I work, talk about a small world
The thing that I am proud of is that today I finally got my second mod project up and going -- glad to see that Linux kicking in -- now I gotta decide on some other preliminary measures for project Super-X -- I have no life, yes, really
May 19, 2004
It's a Tragedy
For me to see the dream is oooovvvvverrrrrr
...
Girl I'm gonna miss you, if you get my meaning
Now what will Hawaii do with itself mid-week, ha
May 18, 2004
So who's running this ship?
More disturbing news about approved memos regarding aggressive interrogation -- and what seems to be an obvious skirting of the intent of the Geneva Convention, which the US is a signatory of -- and for the longest time actually tried to abide by -- so who's fault is it? Certainly there are two people that should at least take responsibility -- I wouldn't hold my breath
May 17, 2004
Clarity rears its clear head
Anyways, I have come to a moment of clarity -- now that I have emerged from my cold medicine haze
I have figured out what bothers me about my job -- and its not the people, the office, the perks -- It is that we are understaffed and it tends to make our lives an eternal crisis while at work
High pace is one thing, but people will fall away -- the choices we make nowadays to make profits -- human labor really has become expendable in this day and age
Pay you up to use you up -- I hate it
May 16, 2004
Still Sick -- slight return
Well, I missed it -- yeah V3, damn
Ok, so it's not too fun walking around on days after downpours -- in the park -- when it's humid as hell -- and you can't really breathe that well -- Kapiolani Park almost killed me today, then again dying on grass is not a bad way to go, I suppose
I was pleased to know that last week, they decided to release some official Invader Zim DVDs -- now I can collect that, why don't they just do a boxset -- it's not like there were many many seasons?!?!?!?
On another note, when are we the peeps going to get Batman the Animated Series boxsets -- screw these 4 ep DVDs -- that was cool stuff back in the early 90s -- very underrated but very cool
May 15, 2004
Still Sick ... and AWFUL MCs
Well, I'm still sick
Actually I was at Ala Moana Zippys planning to walk to my doctor's appointment and letting SD have the car and meet up later
While walking there I got downpoured on, and just felt feverish and crappy after that
Anyways, later that night, we went to go see the Lion Dance competition, and it was hella cool -- what these dudes can do 10 feet above the ground on little footholds is damn awesome
What was totally not awesome is how they planned the program -- whoever picked the emcees should be shot -- they sucked and didn't know when to shut up
Ok, tell me if I'm being unreasonable -- five hours of program is too long -- with a total of 90 mins of lion dancing -- you figure out what the rest consisted off -- and you'll understand why I was so pissed
May 14, 2004
The Learning Process
Do you know how it is to work with semi-disorganized nerdy intellectuals -- well being one myself, it can be somewhat frustrating and disorienting
May 13, 2004
Long Day
You know, I went into to work today expecting to sign papers and come back on Monday
WRONG!!!!
Baptism of fire -- my head was spinning -- from overstimulation and just being sick with a head cold
Anyways, I was pleased with the shocking outcome of the Lake show game ... woot, 3-2 ... hopefully they will take care of business on Saturday -- because you never know about Game 7s
May 12, 2004
AMAZING
I guess if you are going to LA
You can wear flowers in your hair too
Apparently brings luck if you get my meaning
I am stunned
Climate Change & Global Warming
It always frightens me greatly when our goverment and political pundits wish to dampen the discussion and discourse of ideas, no matter how controversial.
Case in point, the upcoming movie The Day After Tomorrow (supposedly based somewhat on a book by Art Bell and Whitley Strieber on climactic change and superstorms) -- well, get that PR machine rolling because certain members of our society do not want to discuss, plan for, or take into account environmentally sustainable approaches to our future.
May 11, 2004
One of those days
I just had one of those days where I know I did a lot of stuff -- but none of it was particularly memorable.
It sucks because right now I have a low grade cold -- I think my nose and throat got raw from inhaling carpet cleaner fumes from cleaning my car upholstery -- anyways, I'm just sick enough to be bothered by it, crap.
Slowly but surely I am deciding on a place to work -- now we have to iron out the small details about this that and the other thing -- mainly paperwork -- AGGH I don't want to work -- oh the shame of my weakness -- HA.
Circuit City was a massive waste of time today -- I bought something I didn't need, and didn't get what I went there for.
I saw SD for lunch today -- she may now hold the record for longest marathon hair session at 4 1/2 hours yesterday evening -- yes, that's right, that's no misprint -- well, it does look really good though
Well back to the River Walk at 2-2 ... Can't wait til Thursday, hopefully the Lake Show can pull one out -- have a feeling this one is going 7 (and of course, someone is gonna have hurt feelings -- me that's who)
May 9, 2004
Good Day
Happy Mother's Day to all the special people who gave us life and made our lives a bit more special for all of us.
May 8, 2004
Toto & Symphony
SD and I saw TOTO live with the Honolulu Symphony Pops -- we had a really great time.
Certainly, TOTO may not be the most relevant band in this era of uber-singles pop -- but it is really cool to see a band that is really high on the musicianship end -- oh yeah, and also has a few hits (so you know they're not total jackoffs, HA).
Luke still shreds -- Dave still amps up the audience -- what more do you need to know?
In the end, it was mostly a greatest hits night -- with a few political barbs thrown in during Home of the Brave and Better World about world peace and the war sucking.
I suppose I'm old enough to have live during the apex of TOTO's run in the US and also to admit that I like TOTO's hits -- tonight we got a full slab -- Rosanna, Africa, I'll be over you, Hold the Line, I won't hold you back, plus a full plate of older TOTO rockers too
A really cool night of fun with the Symphony and TOTO
May 7, 2004
Rumsfeld Should Be Held Accountable
In light of the shocking abuses and treatment of prisoners of war by the United States in Iraq -- including recent information that he may have known of these situations for a while -- Secretary Rumsfeld should take responsibility and the Army should hold accountable others who were responsible for this absolute travesty and mockery of the international standards of warfare and humane treatment of prisoners of war -- and its likely adverse effects on this so-called "war on terrorism"
May 6, 2004
Many Eons Later...
Well, it's finally near complete, I finally managed to get the new Samsung up and running -- nice and quiet, gotta dig the liquid bearings technology -- thanks Korea
And to think, now I seem motivated to do goofy shit to my XBOX ... I don't learn, ha
Today is the last day of session and things seem pretty much up in the air for what I shall do for work -- well, I think I'll take a few days off to think about things and relax a bit
Well, off I go to clean up my office, more to come later -- maybe I can actually post reviews of D12, Prince, and a few other things that are sitting on my NU hard drive -- yeah, NOTT
May 5, 2004
Censorship is Un-American 2
The owners of the happiest place on earth would like to help you with your political thought as well -- sound fishy? Yeah, we thought so too
(From Moveon)
Michael Moore's new movie Fahrenheit 9-11, which heads to the prestigious Cannes film festival next week, was expected to be distributed by Miramax this summer. But Disney, which owns Miramax, blocked the plan. Denying allegations of political favoritism,
Disney said it doesn't want to be involved with a partisan film.
Moore responded, "If this is partisan in any way it is partisan on the side of the poor and working people in this country who provide fodder for this war machine."
The film details financial connections between the Bush family and powerful Saudi Arabian families over the last thirty years, including the evacuation of Osama bin Laden's relatives from the United States two days after Sept. 11. Also included are American soldiers in Iraq describing their doubts about the justification for war.
Michael Moore has commented, "At some point the question has to be asked, 'Should this be happening in a free and open society where the monied interests essentially call the shots regarding the information that the public is allowed to see?' "
For Disney and any other media outlet (or even the government) that wishes to manipulate the free exchange of ideas and information,
THE ANSWER IS NO
May 4, 2004
The Joy of Modding
Ok, so phase 3 -- and probably the final phase of my pet mod project to my pet computer, ze Koob
I realized something today -- sometimes the manual is wrong -- sometimes using flat blade screw-dr is NOT the best approach to removing connectors from pins -- thats why we have PLIERS ... ha
Anyways, I have blisters on my thumbs, and I'm kind of salty because the use of pliers would have saved me time, sleep, and blisters
Oh well -- so now I have to figure out how to set my drive jumpers and make all the new stuff work with each other -- I wonder now if I knew how much of a headache this would be, whether I would do it or not again
Maybe get a blister on your little finger
Maybe get a blister on your thumb - Dire Straits, $ 4 0
May 3, 2004
Finally, Justice
It was good news to hear that high school football star/honor student Marcus Dixon was released from jail after the Georgia Supreme Court threw out his 10-year prison sentence for sexual offenses with a 15-year-old classmate.
Marcus had been in jail for 15 months before being released today. The court ruled that Marcus should have been prosecuted on misdemeanor stat rape rather than aggravated child molestation.
The supreme irony of it all was that it was consensual teenage sex between a black boy and a white girl -- and the original ten year sentence seemed motivated in part by racial differences
We at the Luau (along with act4justice.com-- where we found out about his case a few months ago) are pleased the harsh punishment has been overturned
Although we do decry the loss of the time for this young man, who had been granted a scholarship to attend Vanderbilt University -- and we remain aware that in some parts of our country, there still are pernicious vestiges of racism that really need to be addressed once and for all, so that all may have justice, equal treatment, and liberty
April 30, 2004
Censorship is Un-American
Tonight, ABC's Nightline is doing something beautiful and courageous.
The entire show will consist of a reading of the names of each soldier
who has fallen in Iraq, while his or her photograph shows on the
screen.
But ABC affiliate stations around the country will be prohibited from
airing the special. That's because they're owned by Sinclair
Broadcasting Group, a company whose executives have given tens of
thousands to Republicans and whose right-wing allies tout it as "the
next Fox."
In a statement released earlier this week, the company said that to
honor the men and women who died in this way would be a political act that is "contrary to the public interest." Censoring images of the fallen serves the right-wing ideologues who pushed the war in Iraq, but it certainly doesn't serve our country to hide those who were killed.
* According to the non-partisan Center for Responsive Politics,
Sinclair executives gave $136,000 to Republicans and the Bush
administration since 2000. It's clear that their partisan bias is
outweighing their responsibility to the public.
* Sinclair is essentially saying that any public recognition of the
fallen soldiers is a political act against the war in Iraq. That
trivializes the sacrifices these men and women made for us. Honoring
the dead is not a partisan act.
* In a news environment often focused on celebrity and pop culture,
Nightline's willingness to take time out of their usual schedule to
pay tribute to the dead is a great service. Civic-minded journalism
like this should be encouraged, not censored.
April 27, 2004
Questions and issues
Well I got to talk more with #2 -- actually with the big cheese and her equity partner. All in all, I felt that it went really well -- however, I am not so sure that I will accept a position with them -- have to think about it a GREAT DEAL more
April 24, 2004
I fell asleep
Actually I realized some things last night, I came to the conclusion that I really really like freestyle music -- the other thing is that I should really read manuals before delving into anything
I was dumbfounded by my new optical drive -- whether it was being read or not, then whether I could use it or not -- then I realized something, it was working and I would have known how to use it properly by reading a page or two in a manual
Anyways, all these shenanigans led to my falling asleep last night at around 8:30PM -- after a tasty G-T dinner for SD's dad -- my exciting life, actually we both were out by 9:30 -- hoo-whee--zzzzz
April 23, 2004
I finally saw it
..what you may ask
The last part of the Matrix -- and it took me a while because I could only watch 10 minute chunks of it before falling asleep -- no joke
At the end of it all, it made me wonder how the hell it all went sour after such a promising beginning to it -- the first movie was really daring and different -- the second was all show, no go -- and the third (better than the 2nd) was just kind of ho-hum
In the end, I came to this conclusion -- there was no payoff, really -- it was "man's" fault to begin with -- and the Neo brokered the peace, which machines of course being thoroughly pragmatic (right???) could accept -- thus it was a big damn BLIP in history -- reminds me kind of Iraq when I think about it
So at the end of the day I can say that I have seen the trilogy -- but expanding beyond movie one in hindsight just kind of confused matters with story arcs that never caught me -- and the same damn kung fu fight -- like 23 times
April 22, 2004
Blah Day
Today was a pretty crappy day -- nothing seemed to go very well at work. My boss cut me down even though I did precisely what he asked me to do -- you know sometimes I wonder about correcting people
I mean, is it worth correcting people who just wouldn't get it -- that is, if you actually took the time to explain it to them.
I have a 2nd interview with #2 next week-- and actually I'm beginning to have second thoughts about it all -- I mean, if a guy who will be my super doesn't click with me, isn't that just asking for trouble -- just thinking aloud
Oh well, almost the weekend
April 21, 2004
Little bit unsettled
I haven't quite decided on what to do after session yet.
It's odd but I feel a bit of pressure, or some internal
feeling to kind of get it into gear and get on with it
April 20, 2004
Sacrifice of the Young?
Today I heard about a lawsuit of a grieving mother against Coors, her dead son's girlfriend and her family relating to his death by DUI
Coors = Holding guns against underage drinker heads in the pursuit of coolness for since ever since ... right
(Image by Pritchett)
April 19, 2004
No Overtime for You
Me and my pals have been discussing the travails of working in Hawaii and needing two jobs-- and actually working overtime, because we need the money -- well, SL presents for you just another way your Bush administration is looking out for you -- adjusting the labor laws relating to eligibility for overtime
April 18, 2004
The BLUR
It's funny but the past two weeks have been a blur
So many things on my plate, it was very hard to focus in or enjoy the days -- it was more like survive them, only to sleep, wake up and go again
It was a bit too high paced for me, today I've had some quiet down time just to relax and think about a few things -- it seems like many others in my life are equally as stressed -- maybe it has something to do with the moon
Well, even it doesn't -- I wish everyone in my life a peaceful day of reflection to find what it is that they enjoy in this life or existence, which ever term you prefer
I've heard it said often this week that the sun comes up again tomorrow, and yes it does for most -- I don't think we should be so cavalier about tomorrows when we can choose to do, be and live today according to how our conscience dictates
So whatever you may be, you are someone to someone else -- a friend, a lover, a parent, a work colleague, a teacher, student, servant ... whatever it is that you are, submit to it so that everything else around it can be made better by your willing participation in enriching our common existence
April 17, 2004
Congratulations
To R and J, really nice wedding you had today -- everything about it was very cool and classy
In many ways it was a "big wedding" done with many personal touches, that felt very real and not at all put on just for show -- I think that the last time I felt that way about a wedding with more than a 100 peeps was when my pal T and B got married
April 16, 2004
Interesting Day
I went to go talk to #2 today and I have mixed feelings about it -- talking to the veep you would think I nailed it, talking to another guy there it was like -- I cannot make heads or tails of what you think about me, and I don't get your line of questions -- so odd
I think the bottom line is I can have it if I want -- at this point I'm not sure, I will spend the weekend soaking it in and maybe come to a decision early next week
SD and I went to the fights tonight -- and the last two fights were really disappointing -- Rich Franklin's opponent just quit fighting -- and I think that it is time for Yamato D to hang it up -- it is not an intelligent defense to have your head absorb ten or twenty straight strikes -- the ref was right in stopping the fight -- and your entourage was disappointing in that they showed very poor sportsmanship after the fight -- and some of the students from GU tried to pick fights in the audience -- overall, I feel very dirty about it -- like I got ripped off and like I was really disappointed by the lack of sportsmanship in the last two fights
April 15, 2004
H3 Excitement
Well, tonight concluded night two of going out -- as we went to SD's good friend's wedding party rehearsal thing
I feel really tired right about now, and it's like not all too late in the evening -- we also have two more nights worth of activities -- I can feel it crushing down on me already -- I think I better sleep early tonight or else the remaining two days are going to be hell
The odd thing tonight was being caught in a full on MONSOON on H3 -- like sheeting rain where you can't even see 20 feet in front of your car -- that was the slowest that I've ever rode on H3 -- and thank God for keeping all of us safe -- that was totally hairy there for a while because halfway down the lights were out and it was pitch black and pouring
I better sleep, I have a job interview tomorrow -- I should at least look remotely fresh -- ha
April 14, 2004
Work Parties
Tonight I went to the annual workplace party -- it's quite interesting to note who actually goes to the event
It would seem that only the wild party crowd tends to go -- and if you know me, like I know you all do -- wild party crowd and me are about the same as UBL and W, in a manner of speaking
It is always interesting to watch people you work with get totally smashed -- it really kind of brings up those quick read advice articles that you really shouldn't overdo it at the company party -- well, hand that memo out again, some people haven't read it
It is not to say that I am a saint -- 6 beers into the night, me and my co-worker left, leaving behind a roaring party that supposedly went on til 2 in the morning -- so I guess I'm getting old and can't stay out late -- and my liver is the size of Cleveland because I had little to no effects -- but partying in the middle of the week is something I can't seem to get into anymore
Feel dumber though, wonder why, ha
April 13, 2004
Iraq: Out of Control
The violence in Iraq is escalating beyond American control. It's time to recognize that the US needs the world's help to reach the hearts and minds of Iraqis.
April 12, 2004
Be Careful When You Ask
It's really funny this thing called conversating with divine entities
Well, I've been torn lately about what to do post-session this year, so I had a convo with God -- and now it's like offers are snowing in
That's so damn cool, man -- well, to Him, who all praise is due -- thank you. Now, I have the difficulty of choosing among many really great alternatives -- and it's not like I'm severely pressurizing, but it can mean a stable future for me and SD, which I am thankful for as well
Believe it -- now go pray
Late afternoon update:
Phase 2 of Project Make Einstein Do Arithmetic Is Now Complete -- the mods now are the equivalent of driving a Ferrari in first gear and making a genius add 2 plus 2 -- damn, I'm rideekuluss
April 10, 2004
Congratulations
K and J U-P, may your life together be filled with love and good fortune
Well, today we spent most of the day at my gf's brother's wedding and reception at a Chinese restaurant in Kaimuki
It was pretty nice overall, the food was mostly okay, but it was a nice get together -- and we wish the new family all the best
Tonight we went to see The Girl Next Door, and it's a pretty okay movie -- it's not as bad as some of the critics make it out to be -- well, it's not Oscar material either -- it's a definite rent if you have nothing to do some future weekend, and it's alright as a matinee buy too -- entertaining if you like the Clueless, Orange County, et al type movie
April 9, 2004
For Passion Long Ago
More Than A Man �
Long ago, there was a man who came
Came and died for you
You, you say you don't want to know
But I've got to tell you the truth
God, I will follow you because you died for me
Gave to me your life to set me free
Anyone who asks shall receive
Jesus in your heart
It's time for you to start
Giving God all the glory
More than a man, God almighty
He created you
He's the One, the One who rules the land
He is the One I choose
All of the glory today
No matter what some people say
All of your faith
And your life will start to change
(Lyrics of Stryper - More Than A Man)
April 8, 2004
Mods Ain't Us
Well, the first phase of the mod the Cube project is underway
I was surprised to get some of the stuff I ordered today
Fedex is pretty darn fast
Anyways, it took me nearly 4 hours to install a fan and set a new processor chip
In the meantime, I had power problems that I fixed
I had contact problems with the new processor that I fixed
I had video card problems too that I fixed
All this for a computer I hardly use -- boy, I sure waste a lot of time
Ah well, phase one is in the books and the computer runs fairly spiffily
She Devil's Corner
Well, it's been awhile-- but today is a good day for a post
SD was passed a NYT review of Eternal Sunshine where she found this quote from (as paraphrased by SL eds.)
They are a perfect couple.
They are profoundly imperfect,
Possessed of a prickly individuality
That leaves them often out of sorts
With the rest of the world
The restless, nonconforming urge,
The true meaning of self-reliance
The only cure is for them
To become more themselves,
Can be accomplished only
In each other's company.
Good stuff.
(Material paraphrased from Scott, A.O, New York Times, April 4)
April 7, 2004
Back to waitressing
If you get my meaning ...
April 6, 2004
Thanks Peter
(Click on Catman for his official website)
(Editor's note: There was a time when I was a forever, ready, diehard KISS fan -- I guess when you get older, you become "wiser" or at least less trusting of people's motives (and that my friends sucks ass) -- but it is with this eye that I view that "thing called KISS" nowadays -- and it made me sad, but I can't be taken to the laundry for something I no longer believe in -- thanks, edguy)
Inside is some comments by Peter Criss on the current state of KISS -- and you know what, it's funny but I think it has an odd symmetry and similarity with the Van Halen revolving door and 5 years of nonsense that took none of its fans seriously, and took all of us for granted
Some complaints
Well, today I had an asshole want to return something that he paid less than ten bucks for on eBay -- insisting that he doesn't buy anything unless it is new or "near mint" -- and that I should pay him to ship it back to me -- yeah right, so much for 100% feedback for me...
Umm, -- what does USED mean? -- STUPIT HEDD!
Irritation #2
We have a co-worker that just sits at his desk, not knowing how to operate his computer or use the word processor (or even the newsletter maker, publisher) -- well irony of ironies ...
This guy is supposed to be our communications director -- lemme tell you something about "freelance" writers -- in my experience working now with five of them in the span of a year -- there's a perfectly good explanation why they don't have a steady job
THEY AREN'T EVEN COMPETENT TO DO WHAT THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO -- yeah go find your calling at Mount Shaolin and leave the rest of us alone already
Oh yeah, and tell me about the "one shining moment" writing sample that he got this job with -- he's never sniffed anywhere near that level of competency -- much less 6th grade level competency of writing -- we think he used someone else's writing sample to get the job -- talk about pathetic, how many "writers" do you know that suck at the simplest word processing
April 5, 2004
Pull up your pants
Well, for me, today the dying fad of hip pants really took a wild left turn
We were at the gym and we saw this girl maybe 18-19 wearing athletic shorts and a tight top
Well, her pants were down to her asscrack -- and we saw the top of her asscrack at least a good five times
So what does she do????
She pulls her shirt down to hide her bellybutton -- yeah, that's life in early 21st century for you -- more ass crack please
April 4, 2004
Minor Discoveries R US
Well, today was a day of fun minor discoveries ...
As you may know, I have been exploring the possibilities of doing a mod project -- like either work to my Solara or to my XBOX/PS2
April 3, 2004
Dust and Cleaning
Today was a spring cleaning day in a big way
Gosh, it always kind of surprises me how much stuff you have
that you have grown unaware you have -- because it's tucked
away somewhere
Only to be discovered YEARS LATER, ha
Well, I think that I shall donate a lot of my pulpy novels to
the library, and maybe sell some of my old textbooks on
half.com
We did see TAKING LIVES and it is really not that good --
it's a B-movie with a ton of flaws -- it really is a 50/50
rental as well -- take your chances, but don't pay full
price -- because then it would be TAKING MONEY
April 2, 2004
RIP Erik Lensherr
442 issues later, Magneto has finally passed on in Uncanny X-Men
Simply the best nemesis in the Marvel Universe, SL honors your comic book life and memory
April 1, 2004
Thanks For Playing
As another It's Fucking April Now Day (aka April Fool's Day) goes into the books -- the management at SL would like to thank you all for the love and support shown this site over the past year
And although we may not be the most coherent or full of purpose most times, we are at least honest in our massive channeling of suction for no identifiable purpose
That humuhumunukunukuapaa is going by again -- thanks to all who have played along with us this past year -- and as we sit in the early part of Year Two -- we hope to have so much more to (at least) entertain ourselves about, ha
Special Thanks to Janitor, SD, Shosei, Murph the Burping Ninja, all those crazy Metallicafux who STILL to this day write comments to St.A both here and at Eric's sinister cabal, the Mercury History Society, Amazon.com (Thanks for nothing, literally), Moveon, my blood compatriots in the most sinister cabal of Internet critics ... but NOT TO those stupid fux who keep posting medical pills shit in my comments area -- I WILL IP BAN YOU, save us the time --- and thanks to the ancestors and the extended for all your support -- and of course to the lifetime members of the Smiley Golf Party -- and for everyone else that supports this site, much mahalo -- we carry on
And about that Idol Time stuff -- APRIL FOOLS!
(We could really give a shit about who wins, who's on, and who's been kicked off -- much less spend precious alive time watching it -- Think about it!, ha)
Can't keep the Hung man down
Cal-Berkeley's favorite civil engineer spoke, performed, and blew the mind of America causing a global Chinese sensation bigger than SARS
And a bigger uproar when he got booted from the show ...
March 31, 2004
Take the money and run
We here at the Luau would like to indicate our appreciation for all the support of our three readers throughout this our first year
However, we have decided to take the cash and run -- as a well-known television program has acquired the rights to this website and new content will begin tomorrow
From all of us at SL, we love you all -- we hope you will continue to support this website -- after all, it didn't necessarily NOT suck when we ran it
Mahalo -- and a wiki wacky hula away we go
(Image courtesy South Park Studios- Free Downloads)
March 30, 2004
Goofy interests
I found it odd tonight that after dinner I was looking at how to modify my XBOX -- I know, I know that's so 2002
Well, it's a pretty damn elaborate practice -- and at the end of the day, too much damn dickering for me -- and costs some money that could go to some of my other trivial pursuits of happy guy
Oh another thing I thought was cool for about 2 seconds was the alienware site -- this the company that builds high end multimedia PCs (OXYMORON!!!) -- intended for gaming -- Well, I built something that I would use, me being the lifelong Apple Snob -- and the price came out to ...
$10,179 -- yes, don't adjust your contrast -- oh, but I could get it for 299 a month -- well, seeing how it won't take me from here to blow hole -- I GUESS NOT!!!
HA :)
Enough Already
You know that it's getting a bit MUCH when American Idol basically takes over the Channel 2 Morning News -- making it almost a preview and recap show -- ALL WEEK
(ps: Oh yeah, and for all of those who think I'm hating--think about this--do you really believe any other "state" really gives a big rat's ass whether their citizens are in this competition--yeah, I thought so--oh backwater keep on rollin'--BUSSH!!! -- Support your local musicians, you know, the kind that actually play instruments--@#$%!!! -- Karaoke is Japanese for lacking musical ability)
I just want the news in the morning, perhaps I should wake up earlier and watch channel 8 news -- I like Stephanie Lum better anyways : P
(ps2: And while I'm at it, John Fink -- who gives a fuck what you think -- when I "Think About It", you're a pompous jerk who abuses the privilege of using our airwaves)
March 29, 2004
Lovers in Smoke
Before I touch upon what I was thinking about today -- I must admit to an odd conclusion that I came upon Saturday afternoon:
The conclusion was that if money was no object, I would travel to see sporting contests -- that was a very odd conclusion to come to -- I think cars, houses, trips, luxuries are all nice -- but I would want to travel to watch live sports, that is my true passion -- I can certainly dream, can't I? :)
March 28, 2004
Just Sore
Well, yesterday SD and I went walking up and down Waikiki
It was funny because we observed that -- you know, people spend years raising funds to come here -- and we can come here anytime
Not that we would ... mind you :)
It was pretty cool, actually one of the standout moments was taking a look at how much swatch watches have changed and stayed the same -- I was tempted to get a graffiti one -- maybe some other time, ha
We had actually planned on walking Diamond Head
Well, 5 bucks for parking -- sheessh
We ended up at the KCC farmers market -- that is pretty cool
Actually we ate this handmade arare, very nice -- the price was nice
too, $4 a small theater sized bag -- I guess it was made of gold or something
More later
March 27, 2004
Deceit Deluxe
It is quite upsetting -- not that I didn't know that our government practiced a great deal of misinformation and deceit -- but this administration has made a practice of lying -- just flat out LIES -- that upsets me
March 26, 2004
Meet the new band
SAME AS THE OLD BAND ...
We won't get fooled again?
(thanks to THE WHO for the inside joke of the morning)
March 25, 2004
Late Night Wal-Mart
Well, let it not be said that Wal-Mart does not go off past 10PM ... I have never seen so many people with so many kids buying so many things --- that's what some people can survive on BBQ chips and DVDs -- apparently -- ha
It's been kind of a cheap expensive week for me -- yesterday I finally broke down and bought a replacement DVD player -- and since my VCR died, I decided to buy a combo on sale at CC -- sheesh, I might as well wire them my money because they take most of it
I usually don't like combo anything, because combo stuff usually cannot do any function really well -- so we shall see
Anyways back to Wal-Mart -- I couldn't stand it -- I caved and bought the 9DVD Alien box set for 70 and change -- that is in comparison with 119 at TOWER -- coff coff, BS!!! -- so now I can die rather content -- well, at least I have stuff to watch should normal TV bore me -- I can watch BOTH editions of each Alien film -- damn, I'm a weirdo
Well, good night, good night -- tomorrow is Kuhio Day, so that means no work -- all in all, it's very good
Stale
It seems like everyone is taking a four day weekend today
Kind of slow here, actually a weird thing happened today -- I was planning on calling someone, and as I reached to dial-- it was that person -- thank you telepathy :)
Anyways, kind of enjoying the new Tesla CD -- if you like good melodic hard rock -- it's a nice album to listen to, kind of reminds of the Bon Jovi comeback a few years back
More later, I think
March 24, 2004
The Clarke Revelations
Either this is more propaganda to sell a book or stuff that should trouble us all -- some village in Texas has lost its fool, with your help we can help him find his way home in November
March 22, 2004
I hate this
Ok, this sounds really uptight -- but I damn hate it when my checkbook doesn't balance
Normally, it wouldn't matter but when I find something that looks like it could be $300 too much or $200 too little -- well, dammit it's troubling
And the automatic teller line is no help -- nothing showing any 300 Up or 200 Down --- man, I hate this 
Just what I needed, some bank issues -- swell
March 20, 2004
Limits of Moore's Law
I can't say today was the most fun day ever -- but it certainly was productive.
Basically I spent the day testing out software updates for my computer and seeing whether I liked them or not -- whee fun, huh? ha
It made me realize that in the attempt to go faster and faster, with more and more memory, etc. -- obsoleteness is not only obvious and inevitable -- well, dammit, it's highly annoying
It's annoying when I cannot access certain features because my processor speed is not up to current snuff -- which brings us back to the eternal question -- if it ain't broke, don't fix it -- but in computerland, if it ain't broke, so what (you need a new computer)
Piss me off
March 18, 2004
Our late great
NO SPACE SALE
It seems like every year around this time I clean out my room or more specifically my storage space-- and find that I have way too much crap
So it's off to the eBay we go and hopefully I can clear out space AGAYNE -- sheesh, when will I learn
March 17, 2004
Not as intended (More Reviews)
It is interesting how companies try to get their users to sign off on agreements that say NO SURFING during work time -- yet such is acknowledged as the case in the vast majority of the literature as necessary to productivity -- HUH?
Well more from los listening booth---
March 16, 2004
One Year Later
March 13, 2004
Secret Window
Tonight we went to see the newest suspense thriller on the block
And surprisingly, it was very entertaining -- not too many cheap pop scares -- this one was a true psychological thriller that was very well done
Johnny Depp plays the main character with such delicious weirdness and oddity -- Turturro is solid as hell -- and there are a few more recognizable faces in this ensemble cast
The show is entirely Johnny's -- and it was well done and very entertaining -- I say, entertaining partly because of the fiasco that was Friday's viewing menu -- but this one is a good popcorn popping suspense/thriller -- it's not Oscar material or classic by any means -- but well on its way to cult fave status
PS. a happy b-day to my mom
March 12, 2004
Lost in Boredom
Lost in Translation ... wow, what a borefest this was
I know the hype, I just may be the only dude on the planet Earth that totally didn't get this movie -- oh btw, SD didn't get it too and received the same unsolicited praise from friends et al. about it
There's not much I can really say about it -- it's not funny -- it has no perceptible story arc -- it's just people kinda mulling around in their boring lives in Japan
Funny, but my life is boring enough to waste spending time watching very DULL dvds -- YMMV with this one, caveat emptor
March 11, 2004
Money is your only God
Or why MLMs still exist -- much to my disbelief and counter to my most rational expectations
Well, it happened -- someone asked SD to go to a MLM meeting
There's no need to say the name, suffice it to say, there are MANY, MANY here in Paradise -- I guess the price of paradise really does hit people hard in terms of the work they have to do to get by here -- people really feel the burden of costs and money here -- BIG TIME!
I feel odd, because I remember when I was looking for jobs after college I was galled into showing up for quite a few of these "meetings" -- ultimately with the promise of money
All it made me think was that money must mean something to everyone -- it's probably a little different for everyone -- but certainly and most commonly it drives our lives to a larger degree
Without money, well it seems that a lot of things we tie our notion of "pleasure" to -- are primarily or indirectly affiliated with money -- no money, no toys -- no money, no free time -- make your own list -- it will get very long
Well, she asked me about the group -- I gave her the dope about it -- and she went anyway -- but she really did not want to go, but went to support her friend
I suppose the thing that kills me about these things is that they ask you to bring your friend, your family member, your S.O., your co-worker
Why? Oh, obviously because you care about them and their future -- so what's in it for them -- well you can be added to their upline -- if you don't know what an upline is, imagine how the pyramid looks like in Egypt
Then visualize or think for yourself, how many blocks does it take to support the top most block -- ergo, the lower you are, the less you get -- yet the more people ahead of you benefit from your own hard work
And I thought this was all about your independence, your financial future -- seems like what people refer to as a scheme or scam -- why are these places not concerned about whether you have direct sales experience -- not concerned at all that you don't have a CFP or Series 6,7,63, et al. for selling insurance or security instruments
Well, recently my family friend asked me to join on to a MLM, and I did -- but I did it just to buy the products -- I like their products, they are very good in the skin care area -- although she said I'd probably do really well in it -- I'm just not into treating my family and friends as $ signs -- and you probably don't think of your loved ones that way too
That's why I really hate MLMs, they take your own greed and threaten to upset your personal relationships -- then people above you will make you feel guilty and pressured to squeeze your loved ones, so they can make money -- pretty dark stuff
March 10, 2004
When what others think of you matters
Today at the capitol, a person nominated to be a judge basically had his name both run through the mud and was praised to the Nth degree to excess
It made me wonder why people would subject themselves to the humiliation of such a public airing of your laundry -- especially in the name of public service
Certainly, many of these people DO NOT need to make less than they would in the private sector -- to be gleefully dragged down by some politicians who have no idea of what it means to be a member of a profession
To be subject to the fancy and whims of someone playing politics -- ultimately with your own career fate -- See, the place here is very very small
Whether you are as "bad" or as "good" a person as people say you are is really big shits here -- and it doesn't matter whether the allegations are true or not
It's really unfortunate ... this year I have seen three people, two politicians and one accomplished lawyer become the subject of so-called muckraking "investigated" reports that do very little investigation or substantiation of claims of impropriety or unfitness
A lot of people call this era the information age -- and it really comes down to which sources can you trust -- I have close friends who have a very different factual take on a recent occurence than other people -- and it meant a large shift in the quality of their lives
Why are we so quick to accuse and to drag people down -- or trump up charges -- or think the worst of people -- it never is on the merits anymore these days, it's all about perception
To have many things in our lives reduced to SPIN -- yikes -- it's no longer natural to be your body type, it's unattractive -- it's no longer okay for politicians to raise money in campaigns, it's dirty -- it's no longer okay to be a strong advocate of positions, you are overzealous and lack proper temperament -- and the list goes on and on and on with examples
It's all about spin -- marketing -- illusion -- and ultimately delusion
March 9, 2004
Dull Day 2: The Electric Snoraloo
Repeat Chorus... boring
Actually, I was thinking today that I am a bit too fascinated by natural disaster movies -- I think I must have watched the trailer for Day After Tomorrow about 10x -- I actually liked Deep Impact and Volcano, I need help -- ha
Late night update:
Well, I tried out the livemet site and have been very impressed by the quality of the recordings -- and the pretty not bad inserts -- so far I'm a satisfied customer
Well, back to listening to NEM -- and nothing else to say tonight
March 8, 2004
Dull Day
Well, not much going on so far today
Just found out Michael Kuebler made All-WAC, that's really cool
Really not cool was that Phil Martin, mainstay on the Defensive Team did not make it there this year -- or BIG TIME MISCARRIAGE, Julian Sensley did not make it to the Newcomers Team
In another note, AC Carter made it to 2nd Team All-Time WAC, that's pretty good considering the names on the teams include Hardaway, Ainge, Van Horn, et al. -- Hopefully, some NBA team will pick him up
Maybe I will set up a futility meter to count off the days since Van Halen last released an album -- ok, I'm not that BORED ... ha
*****
Late afternoon:
Well today was a very dead day at work ... so dead that I decided to goof around with the blog you have in front of you
Tomorrow on paper looks equally as dull -- so hmm, I don't know what I plan to do -- I guess I'll bring a book and the iBook to work
This is not to say that we are lazy in our office ... sometimes it gets really deathly slow
March 7, 2004
Not until 9/3/2005
Yep, I have resolved not to go near Aloha Stadium until my beloved Trojans step foot in the Halawa rust palace -- two seasons from now
Today, SD and I went to the flea market -- she was in the market for army surplus belts -- actually I would like to say that if a divided nation is missing many of its populace -- well you can find them here at the flea market
So she found a couple of belts that she liked -- the supreme irony of it all was that the merchant was lecturing her not to drag it on the ground -- SO AS TO DAMAGE IT?!?!?!?! ... man, you gotta be killing me
Well, I have a nice rip-off, knock-off West Coast Choppers shirt -- NOTT
****
Afternoon update:
After a delicious grilled sub/cheesesteak, if you will -- we went to go see Starsky & Hutch -- my impressions are that it is not remotely like the series -- yet very entertaining in a silly, simple, you could do worse for entertainment on Sunday afternoon way -- but the Cookie Corner brownies suck, perhaps I should be smart and stick to buying cookies from them -- imagine that, ha
March 6, 2004
Foiled by Lack
Well, tonight we were foiled repeatedly --
Our initial plan was to watch the in-house copy of Lost in Translation -- well, after much searching, we came to find out the copy was lost as in -- not in the house after all
So we went over the local BB, and guess what -- yep, much like a Jet Li movie, it was out there as well
And every movie that we tried to find was out, okay so BB's if it's not there policy was fully and completely in effect
So we gave up and went back home, this time to watch BEND IT .. well guess, what?
We went to sleep early ... hoo fun ...ha
March 4, 2004
Completely Tasteless
Bush told us he wouldn't use 9/11 for political purposes. As reported by the Associated Press on 1/23/03, President Bush said "I have no ambition whatsoever to use this as a political issue." Now he's doing precisely that.
Our tragedy is being exploited. By using 9/11 imagery, President Bush's re-election ads cheapen a profoundly significant event that killed thousands and hurt all of us.
Just two weeks ago, the Bush/Cheney campaign attacked the notion of "playing politics with national security." As reported in Newsday on 2/20/04, Bush-Cheney spokesman Kevin Madden responded to charges that the White House has overtly politicized 9/11 by saying "I can't believe [they] said that. They are playing politics with national security."
Bush still won't testify in front of the 9/11 commission. As the Daily News reported, many family members are especially upset because President Bush still refuses to meet with the whole 9/11 commission, which was set up to determine what went wrong in the lead-up to the attacks.
The political use of 9/11 is a major part of the Bush re-election strategy. The 2004 Republican Convention is scheduled for the first week of September, timing which, according to the New York Times (4/22/03), "will allow Bush to begin his formal campaign near the third anniversary of Sept. 11."
(Courtesy Moveon.org)
Editors Note:
Despite this, President Bush has used 9/11 images as a part of a re-election commercial -- Make your voice heard this November
March 3, 2004
Interesting Day
Well, first off, I want to thank John Edwards for making a run at the presidential nomination and giving people more choices and more issues to look at
The second thing that I was thinking about today was concerts direct to you -- yes, I know that Pearl Jam tried that in 2000 with its city CDs -- well, livedownloads.com has a few -- and notoriously Phish is providing shows online for a charge
Now this year's Madly in Anger North American tour will be available for download -- the possibility of going to a show, then getting it as a FLAC or mp3 a few days later is pretty cool -- I believe its 9.95/12.95 per show -- so obviously it can be pricey if one is hardcore about collecting -- but very cool idea, now only if they will join forces with iTunes -- cmon Lars, you said you had an iPod
I found out today that a person whom I worked with fairly recently has been committed -- yes in that 1950s sense -- and I wonder what is it about our lives nowadays that stresses us out, works us so hard, and gives us so very little pleasure -- sad, I hope that the person I am thinking about feels better real soon -- but yeah, what is it about working harder, enjoying life less, and catastrophizing everything from terror alerts to breakups -- life has become so complicated and fearful-- but why??
Lastly, I must admit that I have become utterly hooked on Winning Eleven 7 -- yes, EEGAD a soccer game for PS2 -- it's really fun, very addictive -- highly recommended, and takes up my potential sleep time
Over and out, have a good and peaceful one
March 2, 2004
Bummer
Well, it looks like the Edwards campaign is over, and Kerry will be the nominee -- the thing that bothers me about Kerry is that he is fairly doofish
In a speech, he said that Bush should BRING IT ON -- now call me oversensitive, but I don't find such corny pro wrestling-ish trash talk to be very appropo in this era where we have American soldiers abroad actually "fighting" so that sillyheads like Kerry can make such asinine, childish, and corny comments
Stick to the issues, John, so America can move on
March 1, 2004
A-Political R U.S.
You know, I don't know when I realized it -- or perhaps I chose to be in denial for quite a while now -- but when was the last time that I was truly interested in who was our President -- aka leader of the free world guy
I think it was at a time when I was more naive and idealistic about what America was about, what values the US espoused, and overall a lot less information overloaded about what is going on in American politics
I look at this year's set of candidates shaping up -- Bush, Kerry, Nader, et al. -- and I say to myself, sheesh, I'm not even remotely interested in any of them -- none of them really strikes my imagination or fancy in terms of policies, solutions, charisma, or whatever other applied criteria
So is the bland candidate the reason why Americans no longer vote or care -- maybe -- but when more people are far more concerned with American Idol and watching commercials during the Super Bowl -- it really comes down to what you can catch my fancy for a moment with -- the soundbite, the blurb, because I have video games to play, traffic to sit in, and things to stress about -- is this the freedom that we have lost 500+ and counting lives over? There's no answer to that, is there?
February 29, 2004
Feel Good
I have very few frequent flier miles -- in fact an infrequent flier like me probably should not belong to a major miles rewards program -- anyone stupid like me and charging 35,000 bucks on a credit to get a free roundtrip -- ok, that's how stupid I am, ha
So what I did was donate my miles to this website (Hero Miles or click on the shield picture above) ... and hopefully my minimal miles can work to get some of our people home from their service to our country -- to do things we all take for granted -- see families, play with their kids, go to the beach, enjoy life
Check it out and donate if you can, I think it's a reasonably good cause -- because yeah, those miles do expire eventually
Or send them a care package:
Any Soldier
At the Luau, we salute our service people, we pray for their safety and safe returns, are are tremendously grateful for their sacrifices for our sake
February 27, 2004
It's no fun
Well, again here in paradise we are besieged by WET weather -- today is worse than yesterday, because it's sheeting rain, some hail, and the wind is blustery
So at work, it was a melancholy listen to A PERFECT CIRCLE and KILL BILL S/T day -- maybe later I'll post something I wrote up, but for now, just drying off -- and designing my ARK
I wonder what Turkey is like this time of year, ha
February 23, 2004
Kerry Did It AGAIN
Ok, I'm no big fan of Democratic presidential frontrunner John Kerry -- in fact, I became to think of him as a total doof after he tried to imitate Howard Dean and be a man of the people -- you know, go out in the community and mingle with the hoi polloi
Well, there were cameras that day in Philadelphia -- and he made a massive goof of trying to order a cheesesteak with Swiss -- ok, for the uninitiated, you can get American, Provolone, or Cheez Whiz on a Philly in Philly -- the mighty soon to be leader of our country can't get a sandwich order right -- how can he lead our country, I thought
Ok, today took the cake, he called my house twice with a PRERECORDED message for the registered Democrat to vote for him -- call me overly sensitive but I'd rather have a spamming campaign vol call me personally for Kerry than to listen to prerecorded tripe -- this guy just doesn't f-n get it
And for all of you shaking your heads at experiencing the same thing, there are other alternatives to receive your vote -- choose or lose -- John Kerry is a doof
February 19, 2004
Never Forget - E.O. 9066
Sixty two years ago, one of the "greatest" Presidents of our nation with one stroke of the pen authorized the wartime relocation of Japanese Americans to various internment camps in the United States -- it has been rationalized as protecting AJAs and also to calm the unfounded feelings of the general public that these people with Asian faces were untrustworthy enemies of the state
In this era of Patriot Acts and Guantanamo, it is important to remember that the ENEMY is not just a face, color of skin, an accent, a sexual preference, a religious follower, a national origin, or any other basis for feeling that an American citizen like you or I is the enemy and somehow deserves unequal and unjust treatment because they are different.
One Nation, Very Diverse -- pray for the protection of our troops abroad, the wisdom of our leaders, and a calming of the fears in our hearts
February 18, 2004
Finally, UPDATED
Okay, so I have finally spent the time to update my site and get it into better shape than it's been since ...
Ok, so it's never been that great, so why are you still coming back to check it out -- huh?!?!?!?!?!
On a more serious note, I do appreciate my visitors to this little corner of cyberville and your comments -- just a few notes to increase your and my communal enjoyment
May I request that you please be respectful -- a small bit of consideration goes miles on this site AND IN LIFE , if you haven't figured that out yet -- it will also give you good karma -- I'm thankful that most of you know how to play well with others -- those that don't, I hold out hope for you -- but don't be surprised if your contribution is removed
Anytime I do a review (or if you notice the side bar of links), these are provided as well as pictures in my review so you can learn more about what I'm yammering on and on about -- and yes, if you buy it, you are supporting the Post 9/11 economic upturn, and the Luau is very thankful for your support of this site (yes, even if you don't buy anything)
Lastly, this site is basically a selfish site for me -- if you agree, cool -- if you don't, peace to you -- the opinions and observations are mine alone, and I encourage everyone to try a blog -- after a year, I still must say that it's a lot of fun -- and has great cathartic value
That being said, welcome back, hopefully we can stay on top of things on my end and keep the luau updated and relevant -- and at least worthy of your time to read my meanderings
This is the 200th entry, so thanks from all of us at the luau
P.S. Goodbye, Mr. Dean, we'll miss ya -- you wild and crazy guy -- YEEEAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!
Anybody out there
... just nod if you can hear me
Well, after making many lame pronouncements of more production -- guess what? -- HERE'S ANOTHER ... more spew and SOON
ok, so given that my track record has been about as reliable as a watch that is right twice in a day -- things are pretty busy here at ye old Luau
and yes, we are back to being the luau again -- more to come
SOON!, ha
February 16, 2004
Happy Birthday SHE DEVIL
I would like to wish a very happy birthday to the most important woman in my life, my girlfriend --- She Devil --- May all your wishes come true on this special day, I love you.
Increase in Concern
I was talking with SD today -- actually we went to go see Tribute and Rememberance: Asian Americans after 9/11 at UH -- Thanks go out to Asian American Federation of New York and the Honolulu Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League for sponsoring the showing.
The movie shows a side of the aftermath of the WTC tragedy that does not involve Iraq, Afghanistan, the Taliban, Osama, or anything else you can learn by watching Fox or any other media outlet -- it informs of how WTC means more than a war against terror, it has reshaped the lives of those that live and work in New York -- it really opened our eyes to how the Asian American, and particularly the South Asian communities were affected -- if you are not familiar with South Asians, I suppose their "Oriental" dress and misidentified "Arab" appearance makes them a target for unfair treatment and violence
I have not been terribly political about being an American of Asian ancestry -- I suppose that I am lucky to have grown up in Hawaii where I was largely sheltered from the discrimination that other Asian Americans experience while growing up on the continent
I do empathize however with movements and attempts to address injustice and inequality-- in our country we have access to civil rights and process under the law, yet so many experience discrimination, injustice, and inequality as a normal part of their American lives because they look differently, speak differently, worship differently, love differently from the majority of people
It has been brought to my attention lately after being dormant for several years -- the issue of civil unions and same sex marriage -- Vermont, Massachusetts, San Francisco, and our federal government have been spinning wheels about this issue -- I frankly do not understand why it is that some members of our community feel a need to DECIDE FOR OTHERS who, what and how people can relate or love one another -- if this is not an issue of tyranny of the majority, I frankly do not know what is
I find this lack of tolerance, lack of respect for basic human dignity, and an individual's pursuit of happiness to be frankly repulsive -- No matter the moral, religious, ethical/legal, or other reasons given for why there can be no gay marriage -- it hardly seems loving or understanding to deny otherwise law abiding citizens the opportunity to pursue their own happiness in a way that does not harm others
Let's be honest, civils unions are a form of "separate but equal" -- therefore, essentially it is denying homosexuals their constitutional right to equal protection of laws related to the rights and privileges that should be protected relating to their choice of relationships
I do not understand why after nearly 2000 years we still cannot love one another and respect the individuality, choices, and liberties of our fellow citizens -- it is not a matter of moral or religious correctness, it is a simple matter of protecting civil liberties and the dignity of individuals -- I remain puzzled as to how it may be that we still will tolerate inequity and injustice perpetrated on a segment of the people of our country
On a separate note, I do not agree with the current administration's positions to wage war on terror in a way that unilaterally excepts itself from abiding by international law intended to promote peace and human rights -- I further do not agree with fiscal policies that put our nation in massive debt (and essentially and implicitly put our national future in the hands of foreign owners that hold the debt) -- I do not agree with attempts to restrict the civil liberties and privacy of individuals as guaranteed by law and our Constitution for the sake of creating a climate of fear -- I do not agree with further attempts to empower the corporations of our country at the expense of our common public national resources
I do not believe necessarily or wholeheartedly that John Kerry or John Edwards provide clear cut best alternatives to our current president -- however, I am willing to support efforts such as Moveon.org and the campaign of John Edwards to restore a positive direction to our country and the common future that we share -- I'm not writing this to urge my readers to do the same -- however, I do make a simple request that everyone register to vote and go out and vote, and importantly inform themselves on the issues that face us today
Whoo, I feel better -- ha
January 24, 2004
Vivid dreams
So anyways, for the past month, my dreams have been very vivid and weird
On another note, big brother Bill G. sez that no more spam in two years because of his novel puzzle solving technology -- anything short of a Rubik's Cube will prove our island owner probably incorrect -- if only they spent as much time testing Monopolysoft OSes
Other than that, I may be the only one not watching the 3rd season of AI -- maybe I have no sense of humor -- or maybe I'm not so thrilled with seeing deluded people embarrassing themselves
"I've grown a beard, I'm a serious actor now" - Y2J referring to "Chris" Kutcher-- Have a good weekend, peace to all
January 22, 2004
Happy New Year
A little too late ... ha
Things are going along at a pretty fast clip lately -- I'm back in the grind of the morning commute and the good ol' day of office work
I've been listening to the new Pillar EP -- and whoever they have producing their stuff lately is really a great audiophile -- sounds really great like the remaster -- the other thing that I really am digging is the eclectic Kill Bill Vol. 1 soundtrack
It's been a great El Nino winter here in the tropics -- lots and lots of rain -- heck there are places that are green that probably haven't been that way for maybe 10 years or so
you know that the links business is going a bit overboard when they target long-dead and dying blogs -- this one is no different -- so ummm, viagra for all -- ha
one of the cooler things that I have just discovered is Secret Asian Man over at IMDiversity -- yes, I've just discovered this witty 3-year old political cartoon -- good stuff
oh well, back to the basketball game, let's go BOWS -- be back in like (a month) -- soon!!!
December 7, 2003
What's up cyberspace
Been busy with this and that lately -- so I haven't really been doing anything that cool or interesting
That equals work and school, soon it shall be over and I can dedicate myself a bit to maybe doing some changes here
Other than that, fun weekend overall -- what's with the downpours in Kaneohe, nuts!!!! -- Zanzibar on Saturday night, not really my vibe, and the drinks are watered down ergo they suck -- would avoid, but hey, who am I to tell you what to do with your weekends here
And one more thing ...
The return of Sam Halen? I'm not sure I'm really excited about it
Peace to all who need it -- more later this week, REALLY!
November 13, 2003
I think I'm getting sick
Well, it's that fun time of year where people exchange germs with one another -- FA-LUU season ... whee
The weather is not helping that much, very windy with passing showers -- then you go into A/C -- it seems like a good mix for influenza to make you its home for a couple of days
I'm burnt out on doing school work right now, despite the fact of having two upcoming deadlines -- the reality of the situation is I don't think I have to work as hard to get the same grades that I've been getting -- yes, that's nothing you want to tell your kids but it might be true for me
well SD is sick, and so am I -- whee
November 12, 2003
Update
I'm feeling really lazy -- and I look at the site and think, wow, I haven't done crap to it for maybe two or three months to keep it up to date
Maybe next month ... ha
Well, until I do, I must say a few things about what I thought was cool lately -- I finally saw School of Rock and it's funny stuff -- and it's something that you can take your kids to, no problem -- it's kind of interesting seeing a somewhat wholesome Jack Black
Speaking of JB, Tenacious D has a DVD out that I got today --- and it's pretty damn hilarious stuff -- and this is NOT for kiddies -- heck, it may not be for anyone -- except us extreme humor weirdlings -- I'll be the first to say that JB and KG are kind of an acquired taste, but I think that their comedy is pretty original and new feeling (even though it's older stuff in terms of the calendar)
Oh, the other guilty pleasure that I have been enjoying is the Chappelle Show on Comedy Central -- his show is pretty damn hilarious, it kind of has an urban MadTV feel about it -- I like it alot
I wish we had Casa Bonita -- hahahahahaha, have a good day everyone
November 1, 2003
Have a Great Weekend
Nothing to say -- really nothing to say
In fact, my mind is pretty blank
Have a great weekend all, and for those in pain, may peace go with you
October 31, 2003
Low Key Halloween
Well I spent a very low key Halloween with SD and her family at the estate on the Windward side -- it was very nice, low key, food, beer and some pretty cool conversation
Overall I must say that that part of Haiku seems pretty dead for trick or treaters, and honestly there maybe was a 10 minute interval of rain -- well, it made for a pretty quiet night, very humid -- actually surprisingly humid, I was pretty much drenched in persp.
But it was just real nice to spend a fairly quiet night with SD, the family and the pets -- yep, sometimes it's nice to have peaceful nights like that, kalbi, chinese food, and beer ... simple, simple, simple
Hope everyone had a happy and safe Halloween -- and for those in pain, may peace go with you
October 30, 2003
Simple Stuff Like Walks
I had a good day today -- nothing that out of the ordinary. My usual routine of read, gym, read, gym, read ... actually that sounds quite repetitive and unbelievable
It was really nice to get out into the evening air and go for a walk with SD. I'm just really enjoying the way that we are interacting -- it's really down to earth and just real -- and just doing stuff together is really nice
I never would imagine that dealing with some of my issues could ever result in more enjoyment in terms of simple things and life in general -- but it really has -- and it has really improved the quality of my life -- especially my feelings of connectedness with my spirituality, with the people I care about, and just generally my lifestyle
It's just nice.
October 29, 2003
Premonitions and DejaVu
I think that an odd aspect of this revitalization of my soul and life has been my reconnection with spiritual aspects of my life and being
I have found it odd that lately I have experienced a few premonitions that eventualized in my life --- as if that's a word --- I don't really know what to say about that
Well, maybe except for that I am really grateful right now for a lot of things -- I feel really connected heart and head for the first time in a long time --- I feel tremendous love and support from the people in my life -- and I feel this spiritual grounding and connection with the past, present, and future -- it kind of has removed some of my nervousness about these issues, and that in itself is a great relief
Well, I'm babbling, but things really are pretty good right now
October 22, 2003
Bummer
I hate it when the Yankees come back late in the game -- then lose. I guess I'm still pretty bitter about missing the game because I had to go to class last night -- I think it would have been very cool to see Roger Clemens get the standing ovation from the fans and the Marlins players -- oh well.
Tomorrow morning I have to get up early and fight traffic to go take my car in for a new windshield -- it makes me wonder whether it is safe to drive at all on our highways and byways -- when something like a pebble or gravel from a truck can just put a nice sized chip in your windshield glass -- well, the going price now for a glass replacement here is 4 bills -- ouch
The leader of the free world will be here tomorrow -- I wonder why it is that I kind of care less, well unless he jams up the traffic here -- I wonder if all Americans are as apathetic as me about it :)
October 19, 2003
Parade out the Atheist Republicans
I hate Baptists more than I hate Democrats --- the evil Fitch
I just got finished watching RUNAWAY JURY with antiS and eBay -- and barring my preoccupation with having to pee for the last 30 mins., probably shouldn't have bought that oversized drink -- this was a really well-paced thriller
Now, let me state up front that I am no Grisham fan, either in paper form or film form -- I find that his stories seem to be putting forth quite a barrage of unlove for his and my common profession -- I think that what I did like about this particular plot (not having read the book) is that it doesn't really run lawyers into the ground unfairly -- it takes a different, cool take on the justice system -- jury selection (or for you law school vets voir dire) and the jury process
I really liked the movie a great deal -- I think lately I've really grown to appreciate Gene Hackman in evil roles -- and no, I'm not Chris Reeves (SP joke :) -- John Cusack again is the effortless everyman -- and basically its a race to the end
The interesting thing is that although the premise may be thinner than today's bologna -- the pacing and storytelling is quite captivating, it sucks you in -- Dustin Hoffman had a great understated performance in this one as the good lawyer -- one of the things was that I wasn't really that moved about the shooting of the guy at the beginning -- but that really wasn't a problem
It was kind of weird because the ending was good, but it didn't feel like it fit that well -- in other words, the climax for me came quite a few minutes before in the bathroom faceoff (see it, you'll see what I mean) -- and the rest was really kind of details -- but overall it just doesn't detract from a great movie, a nicely paced suspense thriller where time just melts away and you live for the moment in the film --- this movie has a high degree of absorptive powers and verisimilitude --
Here at the Garden, we think it's about an A-, because I can't think of very much that I would like to change -- in many ways its a really solid film, highly recommended
October 18, 2003
Weekends doing small stuff
Well, the self discovery process is going real well -- this is not to say that there are not ups and downs --- or moments where I wonder who I really am and I wonder if people will like me and the way I feel about things now -- but the support of my friends and family has been really helpful -- and I feel more confident about just being me, and dropping a lot the old baggage that I may have had relating to like trust and abandonment, hurt, etc. -- I have a whole samsonite display, it seems like --- :) And everyone that has been helping and being supportive, thanks so much because it would be really hard to go it alone with this -- and you guys all give me the strength to get better and feel better about myself -- so thanks everyone, all of you :)
I went to Dance Hall Crashers last night, and that was a great deal of fun -- and like feeling threatened for my life --- not of physical harm or anything -- it was so crowded, it was like body to body and umm, i'm kinda more claustrophobic than i ever imagined -- and it's kind of not too comfortable to have drunk people swinging elbows while dancing while you are so tight next to them -- i guess, i feel that this really challenged my concept of personal space, and it was pretty emotional as a result
So that's all for now, at the Garden, we hope that you all have enjoyable weekends -- and that if you are in pain right now, that peace goes with you
October 16, 2003
Hot today (Self Discovery Process)
It seems odd to be complaining about heat -- I suppose for half of the world, this is not even a consideration as winter is coming and that means rain, snow, gray skies, and well COLD
I have a lot of stuff to do today, just school odds and ends --- should really keep me busy -- I just spent lunch with one of my longest term best friends, and it was nice to just talk one on one with him --- seems like everything's going good with him and for that, I am glad
As for me, things are really brightening up -- I'm really working on myself and how I feel about certain things in my life -- basically finding out about myself after "being away" from knowing myself for such a long time -- and well, it feels really good -- and I'm glad for the blessings I have in my life, my family, my wonderful friends, the other people who support me, and of course someone who I thought I might have turned away for good --
So I'm just feeling really blessed to have this opportunity -- to look within and learn about myself -- and change my life for the positive, which is work, but like really good work for the soul -- and funny as it sounds, I'm becoming a pretty nice guy after all -- who'd have thought that? hahaha, no seriously--- it took hitting rock bottom for me to realize that there is important work to do on me -- and I'm taking it day by day, and hoping that I can continue to feel good about myself and be able to give and receive and relate in a healthy way with others
Feels good -- so off we go to do some work, for those in pain, may peace follow you -- I know how that feels like when all you want is peace
October 12, 2003
Enterprise to murder William
What can I say that hasn't been said? Oh I know, I can echo the sentiments that this is a must see movie
The movie overall is very compelling for its action, subtle references and homages -- and just that it carries you away with it
I got the feeling that it's really about telling a good story --- such as is the way of samurai/cowboy revenge movies -- it's not really dialogue, it's not really acting --- it's can you get me from there to here --- in other words, I think you go in knowing what's going to happen
And yes, it is not time synchronous, as in other QT flicks -- time is played around with, and context is reexamined OUTSIDE of being in linear time --
What it means to me is as an homage, a love story for so many styles and genres by QT -- and the irony is, the feel is there -- for the portion of the film that is samurai in nature, the feel is there --- from the snow, to the two story restaurant with the shoji sliding doors, to the garden, to the contrast of bold on white -- the vibe is there --- again, the dialog may not be as tight -- but the visuals are there --- for me to complain about dialog is as inane as to complain about such in a kung fu movie -- revenge is here and I as a viewer need to get there
I think I may have seen the most visceral samurai sword fight put on celluloid in a very long time -- it doesn't really seem to pull heavy on the wire techniques or on things like bullet time and shift of camera perspective -- in many ways, it's a traditional, almost loving take on the lone wolf samurai versus insurmountable odds
Singleminded - Revenge --- I think if I were to view it again, I probably would see things quite differently because it seems to me that no matter what, U's character was hell bent on it --- there is no intrusion of morality, in fact it is a vengeance based morality at work here -- almost karma by blade, but the true state of the matter is that we must guess about what really happened at the church massacre at this point -- we've gotten glimpses of it, and a look at the outcome, but not much more
A singular performance that stood out to me besides U is that of Daryl --- who knew she could play a downright nasty, seemingly violently insane, one eyed assassin --- there's more to this next Vol. but still -- very commanding on the screen -- very cold
The other fun performance was the cameo by Sonny Chiba as Hattori Hanzo -- of course, the otaku know that that name in itself has meaning -- ninja/samurai meanings -- it is in many ways a holy name to a genre in Japanese film -- the voiceovers of his cryptic pronouncements in Japanese vibe the movie with feelings of authenticity for the Japanese revenge drama --- what seems simple, is really complex
There are other otaku moments like U wearing something that looks like a Bruce Lee jumpsuit from one of his movies -- this movie is just chock full of effective use of different genres, loving homage, and just a plain fun ride
Anyway, I can't wait til February --- and for those wondering if Q has lost his muse --- I think that question has been answered by this film
(oh yeah and I believe one of my former girlfriends is having a birthday today -- why I remember this, I just don't know -- Happy 32 wherever you be)
October 11, 2003
STEEL is the theme of the day
Anyway, today antiServ, eBay, and I went to go see Kill Bill --- it is nothing short of amazing -- as I let it sink, it's hard not to say that at least the FIRST HALF of the movie is close to Pulp and in some places even better --- yes it is THAT GOOD
In other news about steel, tonight is Steely Dan -- and I am pretty excited about finally seeing The Dan live -- well, it probably will be the first and last time I see them, hoping for a really amazing show -- and I don't think I'll be let down
More on steel, what's with our cars anyways? why are they made of steel? and why do some things like seeing someone's car seem like MORE THAN JUST MERE COINCIDENCE -- the Gods as they be must have a pretty damn big sense of humor -- but anyways :)
Have a good Saturday to all, go see Kill Bill Volume One --- and for those in pain, may peace go with you
October 10, 2003
Humidity and School Work
I've fallen slightly behind in my classes -- so now, it's kick it into gear time. Too bad the warm weather isn't particularly cooperating or making for a really comfortable study conditions.
However, the music this evening on KNAC.com is pretty cool --- they are digging up some pretty cool old metal faves of mine -- right now, Am I Evil? by Metallica
Well back to plowing through, sometimes this school work stuff seems like such drudge work -- oh well, at least tomorrow I can take a study break and go see Steely Dan
Oh yeah, I said I would report on the Lakers game -- well, playwise, it doesn't seem like the Mailman is blending in very well with the triangle thus far -- Shaq is very IN SHAPE and played with a lot of intensity for a preseason game -- the surprising player was Slava Medvedenko who really has come far from last year when he showed flashes of his game, I think he's going to be a great reserve for the Lakers this year -- and the Glove, well, the Glove is the Glove, supremely talented and mouthy, seems like he'll be a good fire player on the floor to help the team pick up the intensity -- other than that, it was a packed house and really fun for all involved -- and I think that the common sentiment was that Kobe was missed -- well at least for one game, the Lakers played pretty well without him --- game 2, now that's a different story
Have a good weekend from the Luau -- this one will be a work and play one from our end -- and peace be with all with those who are in pain
October 7, 2003
Living much smaller
I know that there is a great movement to live large. I have decided to live smaller --- keep it simple, generally live a harmonious and positive life, early results are promising --- and in general, I feel a great deal psychologically lighter and more happy -- which is very cool for me
So anyways, on to game one of the new Lakers --- will report later what I think about how some of our new HOFers look now in purple N gold (after being the ENEMY) for so long --- No KOBE tonight, but that's ok
Be back later, the Luau wishes everyone a good and peaceful day
September 30, 2003
Another Tuesday
... At Circuit City!!! yeah
It surprises me greatly how many people turn up for new sh-- Tuesday at CC. It almost makes me wonder how it can be so crowded at 10:30 in the morning --- I care not to speculate on reasons, I suppose everyone can come up with more than a few on their own --- it must be that The BUS is up and running again, yeah --- RIGHT!
I think today was exceptionally busy because it was Fast and Furious 2 day --- plus the release of the 20th Anniv version of Scarface (ahhh i can hear the sounds of eBay Scarface DVD auctions disappearing like soap bubbles popping)
I've actually watched some of the bonus stuff from the Scarface disc --- not bad, actually fairly enlightening to someone like me who was 12 or 13 when the movie was first released --- did you know Oliver Stone did the screenplay? ... uh huh, okay see ... we all can learn something can't we? There's also a DefJam documentary on how Scarface influenced hiphop --- dude, I'm sorry but that was not all that good --- and it brings up issues of hip-hop and posing, you figure it out --- I know you can
I still have to settle in a bit, but I grabbed what looked like the last new Sting CD off the shelves --- mwahahaha, well I just couldn't pass for $9.99 --- my initial take on it is that it is really good, and although it has some of the jazzier stuff Sting's been known for, it also reaches back a bit for the smart songwriting and composition from that Police era
I finally picked up Six Feet Under's Bringer of Blood --- and a couple of spins in, it is really heavy and a fun metal listen, very melodic, has nice metal groove in the riffs -- and is dareisay LISTENABLE, even though I still kind of don't like Mr. Barnes drowning in mucus deathy vocals -- more personal preference than a strike against the album
It's funny because I found the In Flames' TRIGGER EP at CC, so I figured WTH I'll buy it --- and it has a very surprising cover of Genesis "Land of Confusion" --- that was pretty funny, it's like Metallica and Maiden's bastard offspring with screamy Phil Ans --- I mean, Collins vocals ... good stuff
Well, back to the busy work --- enjoy your Tuesday from your Luau pals
September 26, 2003
Back to Northeast Polynesia
I have been away at the neon mistake in the desert for the past five days --- and surprise, surprise --- no dataports in the rooms, could it be that they just want you to be productive at gambling rather than everything else --- I think so
A word about Omni Air, I have never been in a more cramped, poor service, poor quality food, poor everything flying environment --- I suppose that there is a reason for the old maxim that you get what you pay for --- for my local friends, if you are going through a certain tour company with a V and a H --- please consider your flying partner CAREFULLY
It seems that this time of year is the peak season for the older portion of our population to go to LV-ville --- I think it's pretty cool that people find their own vacation niche and everything --- honestly after looking at more than a handful of our seniors, it's time to really take a look at whether you can travel anymore, it's sad how many of them have difficulty moving around
Local peeps in LV-ville --- you know, I really have some mixed feelings about ex-NE Polynesianites living in the land of glitter, gold, and gambling --- I realize that people must travel to be where the opportunities are and all that -- so I count my blessings that I do not have to make such difficult life choices --- because life is pretty harsh in that little dot in the middle of the desert
That be all for now --- hopefully, I have some time to paste some stuff I have in the can --- have a good weekend from your friends at the Luau
September 25, 2003
HOT HOT HEAT - knock knock knock REVIEW
It was a while back when the TGIF section of the local paper restored the Top 10 lists of songs and albums sold --- and added the KTUH playlist --- in fact it maybe over a year or so ago
At the time, I felt as if I was out of touch with what was on the edge of current music so I went looking for some of the avant garde artists in rotation at our university radio --- and I stumbled across this great group called Hot Hot Heat
Continue reading "HOT HOT HEAT - knock knock knock REVIEW" »
September 24, 2003
Sabbath in the Suburbs (A Lounge Tribute to Ozzy and Black Sabbath) REVIEW
I know that the conventional wisdom is that tribute albums TOTALLY SUCK --- and most of the time, I would wholeheartedly agree with that assessment
Well, stupid fool that I am, I decided to roll the dice and pick up a lounge tribute to the songs of Ozzy and the Sabbs --- and you know what, it's a damn fun CD to listen to -- my pick of the week, especially if you like the goofy goodness that is lounge music
Continue reading "Sabbath in the Suburbs (A Lounge Tribute to Ozzy and Black Sabbath) REVIEW" »
September 18, 2003
Still Alive
Yep, I'm still here --- just snowed under with pages and pages of reading to do, approximately 1300 pages for you bean counters among my reader pals
I'll be back soon enough with some reviews of stuff in my pile --- the new A Perfect Circle is interesting -- I have a kooky tribute CD album to talk about that involves mambo, salsa, and other wacky music styles with Ozzy and Sabb music -- lotsa stuff, new Dimmu Borgir
It's weird how sometimes it takes time for you to get back to things and give it a good listen --- lately I've been listening to Soulfly's 1998 debut release --- for some reason, I really enjoy that tribal groove drum heavy metal from Max (ex- of Sepultura) --- just fun music to listen to, very different
The other things that concern me in a small way are how to get Tarot's new CD which for some reason has not gotten US distribution yet --- and how to get the old stuff from Impelliteri (the so-called metal Christian guitar god) all of which is IMPORT, but it sounds so damn good
September 15, 2003
Ye olde Mondays
I am not enjoying the reading texts for this semester --- actually I find the academic style of writing to be the most joyless, staid, mechanical, and BORING --- it's slowly killing me with utter mind shearing dullness
On a very odd note, I heard that Iron Maiden is using Macs for its IT infrastructure for their world tour -- that's really eye opening, that defies the so-called conventional wisdom of what you "should" run --- they apparently also used Macs to cut their Visions of the Beast DVD -- gives me more reason to support the Irons --- Up the Macs (and the IRONS too!!), ha
Lately both newspapers here locally have been running weekly features on ice addiction, putting a human face on it -- I'm of the mind to say where were you guys 10 years ago when people were saying this could become the epidemic that it has almost prophetically become -- the whole ice epidemic and the human lives involved is just tragic --- well, you're on the clock Linda and Duke
September 11, 2003
How culture works
Boy, talk about a pretentious title --- I didn't come up with it. This is the title of a book by an anthropologist that I spent the day reading. After reading it, I realize that it was another FUTILE attempt to get a grasp on one of the great intangibles of life and human organization
However, I have been enjoying listening to VENUS HUM while doing this and writing up an assignment --- it's great music to listen to, I grow more and more sold everyday on the Bjork-alikes from Nashville --- that's jes like salser from New York Citah
Speaking of the NYC, we remember those who tragically died at the World Trade Center and Pentagon attacks two years ago --- peace to those lost and those left behind
In Remembrance of the 2986
September 10, 2003
Freedom of speech just watch what you say
A 12 year old was sued by the RIAA for illegal downloading and filesharing, and had to pay $2000 as a settlement --- I guess the RIAA doesn't care that she is an adolescent, that she lives in a really poor part of town, or that her family thought paying a monthly ISP fee entitled them to download music (funny, but when I watch AOL and Roadrunner commercials, that's the thing they highlight FAST downloads of music, video, and etc., I'm not surprised that people get that impression --- moreover, is the majority of the content downloadable in any remote way legally placed --- ummm, NO)
It is really hard for me to appreciate the value of campaigning against individuals, especially PRE-TEENS, rather than educating and working with artists, the labels, and consumers to get out legal sources of songs online (rather than continue with this broken "tragedy of the commons" system we have currently) --- Ok, so now we sue everyone, make some comply out of fear, some will continue on trading, but yet there's no great model for using online as a model for music distribution besides a few successful ones
Senator Hatch has suggested email viruses to those that fileshare copyrighted music --- yes, this situation gets better everyday
In the meantime, I shall enjoy my 99 cent Apple Music store files --- adios
September 9, 2003
Time Flies
I saw a weird thing today --- a goofy thing on the Amazon website, I guess if you don't go there for a while it doesn't have preferences for you --- so I got THE PAGE YOU MADE Super Mario World 4 --- yeah, who knew I was such a Mario fan? I haven't owned a Nintendo product since Super NES
The other strange thing was that I was looking for previews before I go off on my Tuesday buying spree, and on Rolling Stone they had a poll of who do you want to see get back together --- as soon as I cast my vote, my Mozilla went south --- I guess it's more signs that Sting and the Police aren't getting back together --- of course, I was tempted to vote for DLR and VH -- but that probably would have shorted my motherboard, don't tempt fate friends
So today is Dance of Death day from Iron Maiden, a new album by that Mayer guy, the release of the 2nd season of 24, it's not gonna be pretty at the cash register
September 7, 2003
Weird
I have wondered what help can be found from people who think that they are helping you by stating the obvious --- I don't find it particularly helpful at all, in fact, it oftens ends up sounding like a smart mouth after the fact comment that benefits from only from being a hindsight is 20/20 type comment
So for all of you who go "Well, that didn't work" --- or benefit us with such gems like "well, you should have been there on time" --- perhaps you all can go work on the very important what color is the sky project
September 6, 2003
And on the Sixth Day
SheDev and I went to go see Dickie Roberts tonight, and although I will not pen a review for it --- it is surprisingly tolerable and sometimes funny. It's pretty cool in that you get to see some of the old time TV child stars in the film (esp. the We Are The World type singalong at the end) --- I think it's about a C+ (and America has gone out and voted with its wallets this weekend) --- and I'm not really a big David Spade fan and perhaps for the first time I didn't find him, his character, or personality grating which was very surprising
September 5, 2003
Minor fascination
Well, I finally saw Dude, Where's My Car -- and it's not as bad as I had thought it would be, in fact there were a few moments that I thought were pretty funny
The thing I wanted to talk about today was my growing fascination with reality TV --- I'm not sure what really triggers my interest, is it the shock value? is it the voyeuristic qualities of the medium? I'm not sure what it is --- all I know is that when I do watch TV, which is once in a great while, I end up watching some reality program or another
The one reality program that I do not understand is the one that features Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey -- ok, I get the premise that they are newlyweds -- what I don't get is how the show kind of ends up making both of them to some degree look silly --- not that I care either way, but I noticed a trend in reality TV to cut scenes together that make someone look stupid, or be the ass of the show, or look like a dick --- maybe that's what you get for your 15 minutes, but I find it somewhat disturbing (rather than entertaining)
September 3, 2003
Swearing off
It's kind of interesting --- now that there's more open source stuff for Mac --- I find myself experimenting with it to see if it fits my needs. Another MS product that has bit the dust for me is Internet Exploder --- this after it did not support displaying the website I needed for class
Within you can find the surprise instrumental medley tribute to 20 years of MTV that Metallica played at the VMAs, courtesy Freenetrecords
September 2, 2003
Tuesday BLAHHS
Today was mostly a good day --- actually things really started looking up in the mid-afternoon when I tuned into some Metallica programming marathon on VH1
I got to see Ultimate Albums (not to be mistaken with Classic Albums) Metallica, the Black Album --- it was good but seemed more like a shill for St. Anger --- I still must say that if you want the abridged story check out Classic Albums, if you want the more full length epic check out A Year and a Half in the Life of Metallica
I then saw the new All Access Metallica show for the Summer Sanitarium, pretty cool but really short at 30 minutes --- and kind of moot, seeing how the boys are on hiatus until October
Well tonight I'm going to see The Princess Blade with the anti, so we shall report back later on that
September 1, 2003
Keyboard Killers and the Con Men at Red Crispy Fruit
Ok, so I kill keyboards on a regular basis --- and it's really hard to care about them too much at the current stupidly low price of $49 bucks as compared to other Apple overpriced peripheralia --- new word, so
ok, so now the conmen at your favorite computer maker say that their new keyboards are only compatible with 10.2.5 --- aka Jaguar --- aka 130 buckaroo banzais out of your wallet
So I bought one, and as you all know, I don't run Jag, or even OSX on my main machine at home --- and guess what --- umm, IT WORKS, even on OS9---to me, these cheap attempts at making us convert to 10.2.5 are getting way old ---so we know that the new keyboard works on 9.2, so save yourself some dough if you still run OS9 -- and don't believe the sticker, wow
I feel like breaking out into a diatribe about how Apple is kind of stupid for seeming to go totally closed source when trends show that open source is the way to go --- but such is my love/hate affair of 20 years with the fruit of original sin
late afternoon edit:
Oh yeah, and Hot Hot Heat and Venus Hum are on sale at the Red and Yellow megamusic store Labor Day $9.99 sale on til tomorrow -- in case you were wondering
August 30, 2003
Venus Hum - Big Beautiful Sky REVIEW
As you all may know, we went to see Blue Man Group about a month ago at the Shrine in LA --- one of the opening acts was named Venus Hum --- they struck my curiosity because I had never seen a band come out with the only instruments being TWO, yeah that's right, TWO keyboards and a PowerBook --- talk about the Dawn of Kraftwerk --- well, this trio's music may just be some of the most fun, upbeat music I've heard in a long time --- oh yeah, and they aren't from Finland or some small European techno producing nation --- they're from NASHVILLE, who knew
August 26, 2003
And Trucker Hats for All
Anyways, so back from the land of the sick--- there's some 24 hour flu going around, I think --- SheDev had it last week, I had it yesterday --- so take that echinacea, drink that orange juice, take vitamin C, and --- whatever you do, I guess if it's that time for you to get sick you will
I've noticed a strange fad that has been creeping up the past 6 months, the return of the "trucker cap" --- you know, the one Dale wears in King of the Hill -- the polyester soft front and the 3/4 mesh back with something that says Jim Dome's Ford and Auto Service -- or Jamino Plumbing and Specialties --- who'd have thought it would make a comeback --- then again, after the bellbottoms a few years ago, I suppose anything is possible --- oh yeah and Metallica sells two varieties, ha
I keep promising to put up reviews, as I dwindle down my pile --- right now, I'm listening to the new Killing Joke with Dave Grohl drumming, not bad so far --- I also have new Opeth, dust to dust, Alien Ant Farm, and Thrice in the pile awaiting take off --- so maybe one of these days there'll be a slew of reviews
and then again ....
August 21, 2003
Humidity Sublime
Hi Friends, enjoying the humid weather out this way in the middle of the Pacific. I am finally building some momentum and posting some of my canned reviews, so we'll finally have new content here real soon --- well, after I watch some Steelers football
Oh by the way, enjoying some of your comments to previous blog entries. One of the more prominent is the Freddy Mercury fun facts that have been put up by one of our friends (who may or may not have a little lamb, thanks --- cool beans)
I have been thinking lately about a scenario --- it goes something like this --- if I were to go and light up and bash a CD or DVD on a webpage, message board, what have you --- would I have the courage to go back up and EAT SOME DAMN CROW if eventually the CD or DVD grew on me and I began to like it --- well, some of our St. Anger haters are coming back to the bandwagon --- and I applaud those especially those who issued forth some pretty damning stuff who now are writing retractions --- I'm not sure I would do that, but then again, I wouldn't fly off the axehandle and post to a public forum until I was totally sure what I felt about something
August 14, 2003
Who Knew
Well, we've been away for a few days doing some school work and odds and ends.
We do have some CD reviews to post --- so those will probably come in the next day or so
Other than that, trying to stay cool in humidville
August 9, 2003
Luau in LA: Day 3 (We are where?)
After our intense SUNBURNED day of Magic Mountain and then over to Chavez Ravine to see a Dodger game --- We slept in a bit and spent a late morning of wandering around in Hollywood --- which was really fun. SheDev and I saw the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum --- which by the way was pretty cool ... we wandered around a bit more and saw the infamous (Grauman) Chinese Theater with all those nice prints in the concrete. It was pretty much swarming with tourists
So, now here we are at Summer Sanitarium in Los Angeles. Oh by the way, $50 bucks for parking at the Coliseum ... WTF!!! are you kidding me? We parked for $15 at USC --- we missed the Mudvayne completely, after parking about a 1/2 mi away, and then going through unbelievable security
Deftones are coming on stage, review tomorrow morning
August 8, 2003
Luau in LA: Day Two
Well, we slept VERY WELL. Our plans for today are to go to Magic Mountain AND ... a Dodgers game
Post-Mortem:
Maybe you shouldn't try to do TWO big events in one day
We got out to Magic Mountain, and guess what, yes that's right --- owner guy buys cheap online tix and leaves them back at the hotel --- in all the confusion over the tickets we walk away from the car (without looking at what section we are in --- this will come into play later)
Magic Mountain.
We actually had a great deal of fun at MM. As an appetizer we went on the Log Ride first, and that was pretty fun actually. It was a nice way to get dropped fast and tune into rollercoaster style fun
We then went on the Goliath. We thought about it after and realized it was a good decision to get on that one early. The wait was pretty short, and it was pretty ok because they have cool zone misters in that line that work. Goliath itself has a 255!!!! foot initial drop just into the ride that feels like you are falling face first to earth --- that was INTENSE
We had some really expensive grub then we went to the classic wooden rollercoaster, the Colossus. Well, there really wasn't too many people in line for this one (and the Psyclone a modern wooden) --- its like people don't dig the old style wooden rollercoasters. In some ways, after the fact, they ride HARD --- by that I mean that you get seriously jarred riding them --- I got a nice bump on my shin from Colossus
My ride of the day goes to Batman. Sure, we waited for about 45 mins for it --- but man, does that ride rock. First of all its a suspension coaster, so there's no car, just you and the wind and your seat harness. Cool. And it does all this cool upside down, side roll, and SPEED --- just totally fun. SheDev didn't like it
Because it was so hot we went on two "water" rides. The Tidal Wave was a disappointment. Supposedly it gets you real wet and creates a 20 foot wave --- um nope ... it takes you up a rise and then drops you, RIDE OVER --- yes, it is that boring
We waited almost 2 hours to go on a rapids ride --- well that sucked too because it was so short, and afterwards we were soaked from head to toe
Well, at the end of the day, we walked back to the car and got a pack of Salsa Cornnuts for FREE --- well, I should say we spent half an hour looking for our car in the parking lot, that was not fun -- and made us later for the Dodgers game
Dodgers game.
We got to the game at the top of the FIFTH inning, that's right --- the stadium was almost SOLD OUT. There was no parking, there was no parking attendants that helped you find parking, when we got in the stadium there was no security in the aisle to show us our seat --- DODGER STADIUM gets an a big fat F for fan experience leading up to sitting down
When we finally settled in it was the seventh inning, and the game was almost over. Watching a game at Dodger Stadium is really cool, but all the sh-- that led up to that really dampened things --- not to mention the traffic jam afterwards leaving the stadium that took ONE HOUR to get down from the stadium to Sunset Blvd. --- which is probably less than a mile
I did get a cool Eric Gagne shirt with a blue goatee of threads on it --- it's kind of a fun shirt. Oh yeah and we saw Major League history as Gagne set the season opening save record for most consecutive saves to start a season
Again, a very long day, we ate some ballpark food which was unexceptional then went back to the hotel and ordered room service. The room service chicken wings were REALLY hot. They were tasty too. That and a pepperoni pizza was dinner.
And to no one's surprise, after that, BED
August 7, 2003
Luau in L.A. Day One
(ed.note: I feel like today is an episode of 24, the longest day of my life, ha)
5:35 AM
Ok, so we've landed in LA, and are now waiting for the shuttle to Hertz --- at 2 something Hawaii time ... needless to say, I want to sleep. I always find that I have problems sleeping on nightflights -- largely because airlines seats feel like concrete with a small layer of padding on them on Hawaiian Air
6:30 AM
You know how you expect good service --- well maybe it's just that people in HI are pretty cool about giving good service -- well, HELL, good service is apparently not to be had early in the morning at Hertz --- this lady was giving me a lecture for about 10 minutes about how my Drivers License number didn't match my Hertz Gold Card information --- blah blah blah, just give me my car
ok, so we are in the car, where to go, where to go?
SheDev called our hotel to see if we can check in early --- no luck, we're heading out to Claremont to go take a look at my college
7:45 AM
Ok, so through the traffic and the insane pace of driving, we made it out to Pomona College. SheDev was pretty amazed at the SPEED of the freeway, well that and the really crazy driving maneuvers we saw going out there. I must say, it does take a while to get back in the groove of driving 80MPH, oh yeah, that is the average speed on the I-10 ... you drive slower and you probably die
Well, hmm, you know when things are totally fROCked in L.A. when you drive around in sleepy Claremont, and an older lady with poofy perm gestures at you in disgust when you are turning into a parking lot after driving 15 mph ... and she wanted to leave the parking lot but didn't because she was waiting for me to pass by --- I bet she works at the college, hmmm, maybe I'll find out and send her a thank you email for yielding to me and wasting 15 secs of her life
9:30 AM
Ok, we just got finished eating breakfast at the local Baker's Square --- it was funny because while we were sitting there SheDev had a moment of awareness --- yes, we were the only non-Cs there. Claremont is many things, but mostly it is the home of rapper Snoop Doggy Dogg --- ok, that and it is a upper class retirement suburb, so guess who lives in these places
Well, it was a nice breakfast --- kinda weird because every so often the quiet of clanking on plates from people eating was this APPLAUSE or LAUGHTER from the side room --- maybe it was AMWAY, maybe it was AA, but for meetings in Claremont there is a Bakers Square for you
10:30ish AM
Ok, so after calling our hotel midway to Santa Monica, again no luck --- We went all the way to the edge of the Pacific Ocean. The Santa Monica pier area is one of the nicer areas in Los Angeles just to be a tourist and walk around. We went down the pier and saw the carnival. Then for some reason, SheDev wanted to go out to the beach (to see how cold the water was), so we walked down the beach and guess what, THE WATER IS COLD, so said SheDev
I guess one of the more tragic things you notice while walking around these really shiny touristy areas are the homeless. I pass no judgement on these people but you basically cannot pass a corner or cross the street without being begged for money, spare change, food, etc.
The other thing you notice, well besides the kinda fun shopping boutiques, is that there are street urchins. The people who wear "uniforms" and come up to you with a clipboard with some cause or other that they are asking for donations. We were approached by some dude wanting money for AIDS in Africa and children --- needless to say it was quite convoluted --- maybe you shouldn't trust someone whose clipboard information has bus schedules on it (but that's just me)
1:00PM
Well, we've made our way from the beach inland through Hollywood to where we are staying in West Hollywood. On the corner from our hotel is the Whiskey, a little down the block is the Tower Records of Hollywood, the one with the really big ads --- cool. Well, that's where the coolness pretty much ended for the day
SERVICE SUCK TALLY
Our Middle Eastern or Indian friend at the counter who didn't say hello to us, who hemmed and hawed at us and told us we couldn't check in until 2:30 (This is after I asked for early check-in via my hotel membership thing).
Then we found out that assjack was blowing smoke because when we checked with this nice Black woman who was in the desk next to him, she moved heaven and earth to get us in, and even told the Guest Manager about our situation --- so he came over and apologized and gave us some bottled waters --- well, that pretty okay of them BUT
The fiasco just got worse and worse, at 5:00 pm, we had left our bags with the bell desk at lunchtime --- the bell people took three calls and then WE WENT DOWN to get our bags --- really on it
The high speed internet didn't work so the service lady said she was sending some one up to check on it (yeah, they never came --- THE WHOLE TIME WE WERE THERE)
6:15PM
On our way down to go see the Blue Man Group, it was a nice drive down to the central part of LA. We drove past the Beverly Center and the Farmers Market, and I guess you get a good feel for how LA goes from city to city from really nice neighbors to really downtrodden ones
When we got to the Shrine Auditorium (yes, the home of the MTV awards shows and the occasional home of the Grammys), we had to find parking --- as much as we bitch in Hawaii about the cost of parking --- it's hard to top LA. The parking cost $20
8:00 PM
THE BLUE MAN GROUP w/ Special Guests: Tracy Bonham and Venus Hum
It was pretty cool to get into the Shrine, and yeah, it looks like a Middle Eastern shrine --- the inside has all these photos of the famous that have played there --- ok, the problem with the Shrine is that once the lights go down, there's no track lighting or row number lighting --- It's PITCH BLACK
We got there when Tracy Bonham was starting her opening set, and people were just milling, pushing, and falling over each other trying to find their seats --- well, we sat in the wrong seats on purpose until the usher and the right people came by and kicked us out and we found out where our real seats were
Tracy Bonham, a really energetic performer who just doesn't have strong songs --- that's all I have to say. I know she is most famous for her "Mother" song, but well, I can't say I or most of the audience enjoyed her performance
The second opener was Venus Hum --- now if you all do not know who Venus Hum is, we sure didn't --- but they are a really cool electronic band with a lead singer who sounds like Bjork --- and the double keyboard attack (and powered by MAC, yeah!) --- they were really great, and the lead female vocalist has a really powerful voice --- they are worth a checkout. And actually their CD is available at Tower for $9.99, so what can you lose --- we really liked them
BMG
You know, it's been a while since I can say that I've been totally blown away by a performance. This was one of those shows. Everything about the show is well carried out from the really awesome lights, lasers, and video to the playing of the PVC tubes.
This may be a spoiler, but if you want to know what they do in the show, you should check out their album, The Complex. The Luau has a review of this CD in the can, and it will be posted shortly.
The basics of the show are that it has all the drama and power of a rock concert but it attempts to kind of play with "what is a rock concert" and deconstruct it. The show is awesome and it kind of makes you think about what they are trying to do and what message they are attempting to convey. There are also messages about what society is like, what it means to be an individual in society, deep stuff but really fun and accessible
Some of the highlights of the show are when Venus Hum and Tracy Bonham come out and do vocals with BMG --- I was a little disappointed that Mr. Stefani did not show up to do vocals for The Current from T3 (oh also and that Dave Matthews didn't show, I CAN HOPE, ha) --- but actually they have an ensemble singer that has great range to do Gavin Rossdale type vox to Dave M. vox -- that was impressive
Some of the more classic moments are when they do tributes to other artists music using just the PVC, it's really cool --- it kind of makes you go WOW, they can do that
Overall, it's just a really awesome and excellent show, SheDev was saying she saw a local news interview where a Hawaii performer was in the Chicago BMG --- unfortunately for us in paradise, no plans to come to Hawaii --- that is unfortunate because it is a really really great show
11:00PM
Ok, the show ended an hour ago, we are still waiting to get out of the parking structure
11:45
We didn't really have any dinner so we went over to the infamous Tommy's --- if you all don't know, and you live in LA --- sheesh, are you sure you live in LA??? --- anyways, Tommy's is a really cheap chili burger place in a bad part of town that's open real late --- I guess for me the tradition continues. Every time I see a show in LA afterwards we go over to Tommy's and eat chili cheese burgers.
The thing I love about Tommy's is that everyone can go there. It's like a peace zone. At the wall, there are counters and you see everyone from gangbangers to Koreans to Mexicans, the old, the young, the limo crowd, everyone is equal there and ready to eat --- oh and you need LOTSO napkins, emphasis on the LOTSO
12:45AM
Back in West Hollywood, after a drive the wrong way on Sunset Blvd. adventure --- it's so easy to get turned around here. On the way back we drove through the infamous Sunset Strip/Roxbury District and even on a Thursday night it is going off
Back at the hotel, its gonna be shower and bed --- we are so exhausted
August 6, 2003
In a Rush
Well today has turned out to be a RUSH day, there are so many things that I would like to do before getting on the plane later tonight to take the Luau on the road
It's been pretty crazy all day long, well hopefully I've did everything and got everything I need --- off to jet transport!
August 3, 2003
Luau Sundays
It was a nice surprise seeing others like antiServ and eBay brave the rain and join me and SheDev for curry last night. I know that quite a few of you live here in Hawaii that read my ramblings, so check out Sumo Ramen, the mochiko chicken with curry is unbelievable --- or basically anything with curry is good there, hear me now, believe me later
In kind of cool find, go check out Slash online, the ex-GnR guitarist's website, there's a lot of video goodies, like a hot Velvet Revolver live cover of Sex Type Thing --- it just crushes
Not that I want to start a trend of celebrating celebrity birthdays, but Mr. Hetfield is 40 today --- I didn't know that until a few minutes ago
August 2, 2003
Really???
I'll be sure to take this into account next week
(Whatever could I be talking about ???)
(Photo courtesy: MOT)
American Pie Weekend
Nothing tremendously interesting went on today, SheDev and I did go and see American Wedding, the third installment of the American Pie (now: trilogy, wow) series of movies. Like many third parts, in many ways it is flat and pales in comparison (maybe I'll finally write a review for the first time in weeks)
On with some rock notes of minor, major, and no importance (from various sources all around this watchtower we call Da NET:
So what happened to Ripper? Tim Owens, recently the lead singer of Judas Priest has *drumroll please* actually ended up filling the spot with ICED EARTH left by Matt Barlow leaving the band. This is really turning into the year of the merry go round in heavy music personnel. From Trujillo to Newsted to Halford to Ripper, where will it stop next?
(By the way, ICED EARTH has posted three song clips from their new album on their website, and Ripper really fits in super well --- they again pull off that Maiden Metallica hybrid, now with really impressive vocals, this band may actually break from the underground if the three songs are any indication of the quality of the album)
Bill Ward, the drummer of hiatused Sabbath, seems to be putting out the feelers about maybe the Sabbs doing a tour and recording a new record. He said they had all these ideas they were working on then the show The Osbournes blew up (and of course, Ozzy's personal life flared up). I guess my take on it is that Tony Iommi has always treated Sabbath like it was HIS band, so until I hear from Tony, my guess is Sabbath is indefinitely hiatused
Well, it seems that after bickering for most of the summer, Vince and Nikki look like they've buried the hatchet and we can all look forward to a Crue tour in 2004 --- were you waiting for that? funny, even a Cruehead like me wasn't, I guess I still feel burned over the whole Generation Swine thing
Velvet Revolver is really getting some great recognition and now its down to three labels in the bidding war to release the new material from the project which features half of old GNR and STP's Scotty Weiland --- like I said before, Chinese What or Chinese Wait? How would you like to give up 10 years of your recording life because you are bickering over who owns the GNR name? Must suck
I finally heard some audio of an interview asking for Jason Newstead's reaction about St. Anger --- I've read numerous speculations and quotes with limited cred. Jason basically said that it isn't the easiest record to listen to due to the production and the tonality and that that could have been done better but he thought the songwriting was good. I think that's a fair assessment and I think he kinda took the high road as well.
Is Red Cap Fred the Axl for a new generation? I think as many of you know, our friend Freddy walked off the stage after 20 minutes during the Chicago Summer Sanitarium show. In a feelings is mutual thing, the crowd pelted him with crap and he went on a verbal tirade about Chicago --- and then in a William Rose moment, that was that for the show. Its no way to win friends and influence people
And more about Chester's health (of Linkin Park), apparently he has some gastrointestinal disorder where sometimes he completely cannot hold down food. There's a problem where both the acid refluxes and the food can't stay down due to issues with his digestive tract. Basically, spontaneous vomiting is possible, and he will need surgery soon to correct the problem. We hope he gets through SS2003 and gets better quick
KISS and "former" member Ace Frehley are bickering again, that didn't take long, did it? For all of you who didn't know, Peter Criss and Ace Frehley both left KISS in the early 80s for various reasons. MTV Unplugged got KISS back together and the big reunion tour and somewhat of a flop of a reunion album was done in 1996. They toured just fine, having two or three major tours throughout the year 2K. Then they had a farewell tour where Peter was kicked out of the band for the ending shows, now he's back in the band. Ace spoke this past week about how he treated the "Farewell Tour" as exactly that and is now back to recording solo work --- Paul confirmed this week that Ace is no longer in the band, nor are there any plans to bring him back. Tommy Thayer is Ace's replacement (and much like when Eric Singer filled in for Peter) he is wearing Ace's makeup. Ok, I remember when Vinnie Vincent and Eric Carr were part of the KISS makeup era --- they all had their own makeup and no one wore Ace's or Peter's makeup as a replacement --- who knows what changed to let that be, but I think it kind of is cheesy, they should let Tommy pick his own character (much like Eric thought he could be the Hawk)
Now, in something which is equally unimaginable, KISS and Aerosmith are co-touring but Aerosmith closes the show every night --- what's up with that? And a bigger what's up with that for the way that Alive IV sounds: over the years, I have been equally pissed with and enamored with the guys in grease paint -- sad to say, but there are many glaring parts of Alive IV where it made me cringe and think that it's time for everyone to hang it up. And frankly I'm not that impressed with Tommy's soloing capabilities (as shown by this show anyways)
Like I have Van Halen news --- ha
July 31, 2003
Something better to write about?
You know, I wish I had something better to write about today. I still am very impressed at how nicely you can sell stuff on eBay --- much like a store I am having a closet clearance sale, starting with videogames --- ha
I just have a ton of crap, and although there is some sentimentality over some of it. The question is always why the heck am I accumulating this big pile of junk. So, I have decided to piece by piece disassemble of my walk in closet, before the shelves and 800 pounds of stuff falls on my head
So Playstation 2 games are flying out of here on eBay, Xbox games are next --- and then onto thinning out the vid/DVD collection --- then probably the cassettes, the CDs --- see, I have a ton of CRAP!
From the land of dust and overcrowding, the Luau is out for Thursday
July 30, 2003
Never can say
Well, here's an admission. I never can say that I truly know exactly what will happen --- perhaps I should never say that again, ha right!
I put something up on eBay for the first time in a long time, and figured that it was a low demand item. I should also say I set up a BuyItNow price that was high but not ridiculous. So as I left for class tonight, I expected a long protracted LACK of bids over the bid period
Well, surprise surprise when I get back home, I have a note in my email saying someone bought it using BuyItNow. I'm supergrateful that someone wanted it at that price. I kinda figured that was the highest I could possibly get by bids, but by bids you never know. But there you have it, eBay brings some chaos to my understanding of how people value things --- it's pretty clear that on some days stuff you never think will go, goes fast ... on others, you're just doing the relisting mambo
eBay, how I long to understand thee ... ha --- good night, more later
July 29, 2003
Humidity Gone
Well, most of the humidity is gone --- in some ways, I wonder why I was so consumed by it (both literally and figuratively)
In fun news, I'm getting a promo copy of a CD to review from Superioint Ritual as part of my affiliation with that sinister cabal of blogcritics --- from all accounts that should be a pretty cool CD
On the show front, I'm pretty stoked that Steely Dan is coming to Hawaii in October --- I know it's not they are not most hellaciously rocking group, but it's just some real tight smart groovy stuff --- and we likes it
Another show that I am interested in but up in the air on is a Honolulu symphony performance with the newly reunited YES --- well we'll see
The thing that's consuming me besides school stuff is what to do in the big city for a day. That's always kind of hard to figure out, and it has me boggled.
July 28, 2003
When Radiohead sounds good
On Day 4 or 5 of intensely brutal warm weather here in the tropix --- yeah I'm losing brain functioning from intense wet warmth
You know what? I found perfect music to listen to during intermittent thundershowers, humidity, and overall greyness --- Radiohead's OK Computer --- hell, it sounds terrific in this kind of weather. Don't all you RH fans start jumping on me, this disc has grown on me with its sprawly experimental almost The Wall-ish kind of modern concepty vibe
Here's my gripe of the day -- I realize we live in the era of 24-7 media, and that feeding the monstrous appetite for NEW news is incredibly enormous. But lately, it's been bothering me --- I mean does anyone remember how the Sosa corked bat thing was covered by everyone from CNN to ESPN to your local news to death --- and after it was found out he told the truth that that was his only corked bat, it all went away
I'm asking for patience, this grimoire, macabre, rubber necker style of media doesn't serve anyone. I feel for those involved in the Dennehy murder, I feel for those involved with the Kobe 8 sex assault --- it's just hurry up and wait. I mean both these things have been trampled to death and neither is anywhere near a relevant trial date, and we have dragged everyone victims, victims families, alleged perpetrators, players wives, etc through the mud and back and rewetted the mud and dragged them through again --- can we not wait until there is a STORY to tell
And speaking of stories to tell, how is it nowadays that something is determined to be of NATIONAL RELEVANCE for media coverage. I don't know when it was when "celebrity" became a prime criteria for why things are covered in the media. Not to sound callous, but sometimes I wonder how things which sound totally in "local news" like the Ramsey case or the Laci Peterson case become suddenly NATIONAL NEWS --- with experts asked to proceed and comment on assumptions about facts and issues which HAVE NOT been put to trial yet
It's all assumptions, and you know what they do to you and me. And there is a cottage industry of pundits primarily on talk radio that then take half-baked information and wreck the reputations of those involved. In the spirit of Greenberg and Golic, I hate to say it, but until these things are ready for prime time --- when there actually is something substantial to comment on --- the whole media and everyone else who is a tagalong for 15 minutes of face time should JUST SHUT UP -- no one is being informed, and no one is the better for this crap that gets cycled everyday 24/7
on a side note, it still surprises me how much of a strong reaction (of 'unnamed feelings' --- ha) a certain unnamed album provokes --- at this point, I'm totally over it and kind of on to the next thing so it makes me wonder while people wish to linger in that place
July 27, 2003
Late Night Surfing
I was surfing the web tonight and I found a whole bunch of sites dedicated to the Kobe Bryant issue. A couple of them named the victim, some of them actually put her address, email, messenger ID up --- some put the information of other people involved up, and all of it called "public information" --- some even put up pictures (how credible they are, I don't know, they all look like someone different to me --- so I'm calling BS on them)
I find two things horribly appalling with this kind of information. Number one is that it is really a lowest common denominator thing, in other words, it appeals to the natural curiousity in us all but in a very very DARK way
On some of the message boards, the discussion just got really bizarre with people speculating about presumed white-black interracial sex fantasies, about which race is better, about who deserves what they got, just really dark stuff
It's sad. No one wanted to talk about facts ... but then when I think about it, we know very few if ANY FACTS, other than Kobe was charged with third degree sex assault.
So it made me think, is the media or are these websites fairly disseminating information? I mean, what do we really know at this point at all? Call me ignoramus numero uno, but I can't say that I know much --- and this is after what two weeks straight of so-called NEW news coverage
Two members of the media have really made me think, why? in terms of what they reported. Tom Leykis who reported the victim's name. Matt Drudge who reported that the case is controversial because it "probably" involves anal sex. How does it improve our understanding at all? To me, these acts only add to the sensationalism and detract from the process of finding of fact that the "criminal justice" process is supposed to do
Yeah, that's how I spent my night, looking at car wrecks --- and like most people who view carwrecks you go OOH, but then just drive-by. I don't know how to improve this situation --- maybe that's what we've become in this early part of the 21st century, and its a bit weird and sad
July 26, 2003
Tropical Depressions Suck
Hooboy, talk about the worst humid weather yesterday and even on into today. That lovely feeling of yuck warmth that sticks with you even if its 2:00 AM in the night while you try to sleep. I guess what I'm trying to say is that it sucks when the air is so thick and warm that the ceiling fan can't even move it --- also this is one of the notable downsides of hurricane season --- near miss hurricanes that as they depower still have weather effects like taking away the COOLING BREEZES --- oh and the lovely thunder and lightning that threatens to power surge my equipment, ah life during hurricane season
Well, I got to hear a track off the new Perfect Circle album today, and it's kinda weird because the tracks they slate for single have that Tool-vibe but it's like a lighter more listener friendly approach as well. People are gonna hate me for this, but it's like Tool Light --- its not so far differentiated from Mayo's main project --- to some degree I wonder why have two versions of "tool" --- or why I can't take seriously these so-called hiatuses from Tool that provide Tool-like music which is lighter and less complex
Another thing I've been contemplating of late is my growing desire to see Ozzy before he completely turns into the rough mental equivalent of jello shot. I'm not sure if he'll tour after the end of Ozzfest, but he hasn't played the islands since 1996 --- a simple plea from the Luau to the patriarch of the Osbournes, come on back soon (p.s. we don't even mind if your daughter opens the show)
July 24, 2003
Terrible Thursdays
It is interesting how people work in groups. Isn't it true that most progressive thinking and literature focuses on how better off we'd be if we worked in groups. How productive we can be, how fulfilling it can be, how synergistic
There are times when individuals work in groups, sometimes their individual contribution combines with the other members to create something that is far greater than their individual effort could do alone
More of the time, I find that individuals can also highlight their worst qualities in spades by group work. The tendency to rely on others to help you out can be a crutch. The tendency to procrastinate can result in poor quality work that has to be redone by someone else in the group resulting in duplication of efforts. Quite simply, some individuals do not bring anything to the group at all --- they are fifth wheels, better off stored in the trunk and ignored unless absolutely necessary. In terms of process, the slowdown caused by one member can totally stop or stall the whole project from moving forward
Do you care more than the others do in your group? Then, most likely group work is not for you --- end of story
In somewhat lighter news, the Luau may be taking it to the road soon. Just have to iron out a few minor details, in the coming weeks there may be a few surprises.
July 22, 2003
Search for Meaning
It seems that SheDev and I spend a lot of time thinking about what life means, why are we here, what is our greater purpose. what does the future hold, and so on
Just as a change of pace from academics, I was thinking about these things, and came up with these thoughts
Meaning in life and higher purpose may come from feeling that you are part of something that is bigger than just you. In other worlds, you find value in being a part of something larger than yourself --- the family, a cause, nature, spirituality, etc. The value comes from participation.
In the present world, it seems that I have (among others) lost touch with the sense of life purpose that comes from participation --- and as a consequence, the feelings of meaningless set in, or even better, we make money and other seemingly inconsequential goals our purposes. It doesn't help that the larger society contributes by not really having direction or purpose either.
However, I think that participation alone is not sufficient. You need to understand whats and whys of experience, critically evaluate it --- and all of this is to make sense of life.
In other words, if you just go after intense experiences of participation without stepping back a bit to evaluate it, you will probably just accept whatever dogma attaches to it --- cross reference extreme sports. bodypiercing, etc.
If the intense experience comes from politics, you can become a fanatic about ideals. cf. garden variety terrorism, preemptive striking. If the intense experience comes from religion, well I guess you turn into a true believer. What I am saying is that it is easy for others to play on your emotions and sense of belonging, so do not lose the ability to evaluate and understand your experiences --- the danger is being caught up in something that can in the end be destructive to yourself and others
I guess in the abstract, this requires an integration of one's individuality with one's needs for participation and belonging. In other words, it is finding ways to contribute in your lifetime that makes you happy and also is beneficial to others and society --- you don't sacrifice yourself uncritically to "higher causes" or "better experiences"
I think at the end of the day, combining the personal introspective with external participation for the sake of good -- which is a bunch of big five dollar words --- is a big part of finding out who you are, why you are here, and what you are to do before you stop being ON. In other words, yes it is good to belong and participate, but do it with your eyes open not only as to how it benefits you but how it fits in with the greater whole
On that note, I shall shut up and continue to read
July 21, 2003
What do you say ...
When people just don't try --- I was faced with this dilemma many times this weekend while reading my peers' papers. I'm not saying that my paper rules or anything but it follows format and content requirements (like a good paper should? ha)
Anyways, reading some of the papers I began to understand why professors sometimes get frustrated with students. It has become clear to me over the past two months or so that you can totally tell when people don't put in the required effort on assignments --- I can sniff it out totally now
It's funny because sometimes people attach notes like take it easy on me, etc. and then their paper is pretty okay overall. But the ones who admit nothing and their paper just totally is crud -- I don't know what to say -- and it's funny because it's not for lack of grey matter. If these people would only do a good faith effort, it would probably be pretty okay, in fact it might actually be good
Enough of that, on an interesting note, I find myself kind of wandering the Net looking at people's assessments of albums and CDs that I have in common with them. Sometimes I agree, sometimes I disagree -- but I do find that --- SURPRISE, SURPRISE --- personal taste has a lot to do with it
A very common taste in metal that I have found is people that like the epic metal sound or power metal sound --- ie. the Maiden, old Queensryche, Iced Earth, etc. --- what I have found is that there are a lot of bands appropriating that sound even today but like blending it with like Europe, Dokken, or 80s pop metal style
Human Fortress --- oh boy, these guys sound like Europe, Dokken, Maiden, and concept album era Queensryche --- and boy does it sound weird to me, but I suppose that if you preferred groove, hooks, yet with power --- you'd like them a lot
On another note, what the hell has happened to Queensryche? I question openly because right now their label is doing the remasters trip with their catalog. So, I've been rocking out to clearer sounding "Queen of the Reich" off their debut EP ... I didn't so much mind their slowing it down or going concept on us with Operation Mindcrime and Empire ... but their new album Tribe is totally ridiculous, it sounds like Creed --- I mean, yeah I realize some people like Creed, more power to you, but it shows an alarming lack of creative direction (and I think I read somewhere that one of the members is so pissed off with the sound that he quit) ... again, we are confronted with the dilemma of the quote "Metal" genre
I read reviews and some reviewers say, ok you get no experimentation, you get that
July 18, 2003
It's a Luau Friday
And the new movies this week look like buttsuckers
So as we continue our enterprise to complete work on drafts, I need to say something about an online retailer by the name of Electronic Arts. Talk about the worst system of customer service --- you tell them anything relating to your order, you get back an autoreply in a day, then you get an email from a person a day later saying basically, if we can help you we will, if we can't --- we'll tell you in another two days --- It's been FOUR days since that "human" email. EA, your online customer system and sales integration completely sucks, you get the SERVCO award for this month
Afternoon update:
Ok, so the drafts are done, awaiting some piranha action by my peer review committee --- hoo, isn't academics fun, there's no better way to prove yourself as being a dumbass than to hand over your scrawlings to your peers
On another note, I received the Tiny TV CD for FREE from Borders from one of the cashiers. I'm not sure that she was supposed to give it to me for free, but hey COUPONS!!!! yeah, tons of OC-16 COUPONS!!!, I hope they are not all expired --- I want some SLUSH PUPPY --- oh yeah, and I listened to some of the music, it's really not bad in terms of a CD of covers, sounds like pretty good karaoke
July 16, 2003
It's the mooossst wonderful tiiimmmee
Of the yeaaaaarrrrrr
Ok, so it's not X-Mas, but it is that special time of the year where the first of the new line of EA Sports videogame titles comes out. NCAA Football 2004 came out yesterday for us in Ha-why-uh and dread upon dread, it is quite fun to play and is very addicting
Also adding to my potential addiction is the Knights of the Old Republic Star Wars game for XBox --- that game looks so cool and reviews are pretty universally good, like in the best game for XBox kind of good
I don't know why I'm tempted by these videogames. They are fun to play and all, but I just don't have the time to fully immerse myself and get down to playing. The irony of it all is that for last year's version of NCAA football I played a total of 90 some odd games, or approximately 6 or 7 seasons worth.
It seems like every year I have less and less time to play the games, its almost like handing over free money to EA Sports for a nice shiny box --- ooh kids, it LOG, the most fun toy ever! --- for me, its BOX!!! look at the box, don't play much but look at the BOX --- and hand over your 50 bucks
What's funny is that the clerks at the game stores always go --- would you like to reserve this game today too? I'm like can I buy some time instead, there's no way I can sustain more than 3 videogames per year nowadays, I think. So with that in mind, let me go plunk down a preorder for Madden --- I don't learn
July 15, 2003
Observable Tuesdays
I've noticed a new trend in my email spam. It tends to cycle--- sometimes it dries down to virtually nothing, then all of a sudden boom again. I've given up on previous tactics of please remove clicking, in fact over time, I saw a greater boom previously by doing that. So for the past six months, I am doing a wholesale dump policy and it seems to work okay, well it's somewhat tolerable in that it only occasionally fluxes up from time to time
Actually I'm in kind of a good mood right now listening to my free, yes free, copy of Fair Warning Remastered. And, for those of you that do not know, our little art piece for June (god, I'm delinquent with changing my stuff over on the sidebar, ha) is the art work used by Van Halen for this album. All I can say is, besides things sounding a bit louder in the mix, there's no really big noticeable difference between the old CD and this one
Oh, and relating to Peter Malick, didn't want to get too harsh, because the guy is well known for his work with the gods of the blues like John Hooker, but this recent get the dust off EP is a reach --- a reach for cash, ok there I go again, I'm gonna shut up
July 13, 2003
Another Luau Sunday (or is it, Sermon?)
It was a really nice slow down weekend here at the Luau.
Why does something FREE take so long? Haha, the question I was asking myself after turning in almost all of my free CD certificates to BMG. It actually took longer for me to get my free ones than it did to get the discount ones from the sale that that me and mr. UnM went bananas over, go figure
Something I was thinking about at the latter point of last week --- why does it feel odd to hear the term "Secular" even today? As you may know, I spent a great deal of my formative years in church school and at church. In the current day, Christian media refers to everyday media as secular. Therefore, you hear these things about listening to a balance of secular and faith-based music, etc. Ok, faith-based??? I don't like that term either.
I don't think that I am as touchy or in touch with current, contemporary Christian religious trends at all. I certainly do not divide up my idle media viewing time into faith-based or secular. I also have no qualms in watching or listening to secular entertainment.
What I still do find at some psychological level as disturbing are the people who put so much effort into indicating their love for God, you know them --- the quoters of verses and the praise God-ders, yet they have bizarre affinities to secular or non-faith-based entertainment --- err umm, such as very God focused individuals who love Star Trek or Sex in the City, for that matter. I'm the first to say that perhaps the boon of contemporary Christian belief is that now the church doesn't jump on your back for such things and focuses on the "big picture".
However, I would not cite these forms of entertainment as necessarily the most God-focused either or indicative of good stewardship in (at least) the Christian belief system either, in fact they are almost 180 degrees counter to the core beliefs. Barring a brain meltdown on my part, I don't get it --- and maybe that's why I'm not as overtly passionate about my religious beliefs (whatever they may be anymore) so much of life today is so gray and watered down --- and there's some part of me that still believes that there are a few things you shouldn't compromise --- but I also realize the limitations of trying to put in a box one's relationship to their religious or philosophical beliefs of choice.
July 9, 2003
Interesting Wednesdays
I had a pretty good day today, actually managed to get together with two of my really good friends for lunch. I don't think we've done that in about a year, which is kind of unfortunate --- but it was very fun today, and thanks to the new man for lunch
As a correction, it was pointed out to me that Freddie Mercury was not born in India. He was born in Zanzibar in Tanzania, and later moved there. I found this information from the official Queen/Fred site. On a side note, if you notice that something factual is wrong on the site, by all means, please point it out --- and if at all possible, provide the correction, I would appreciate that --- getting a "that's wrong" is an appreciated comment, but it doesn't really help me correct things
Oh, and today I got my first instant message "chain mail" from someone I don't know, and it was one of those God Loves You SLASH Im dead I'll come haunt you if you don't send this to some arbitrary number of friends. I have this to say: if you really are concerned about your friends, you don't send them disturbing messages like that no matter what your belief in supernatural or karmic forces may be. In other words, I'd rather be haunted than to pass the "karmic" burden on to my friends --- but thanks for sending your bachi over to me, whoever you were, I appreciate your selfishness
One more thing, congratulations to Looks Count and his family on their new son, we wish you the utmost happiness and love with your new child
July 8, 2003
Tuesday of Terror
Ok, so you know you're living here in the new world when you learn from the New York Post today that Britney Spears admits she is not a virgin and had sex with Justin Timberlake --- umm yeah.
Here's another note, I write reviews of stuff, well --- basically because I want to, I don't get free discs, I don't get promos, I don't have any interest in these CDs other than being entertained. That being said, I am just one voice in the world, so I cannot imagine how any of my reviews end up buzzkilling or disappointing anyone --- if you like something that I don't, I'm so happy for you --- in fact, maybe to some extent, I want to experience the same joy you do because, well, number one, it's my dime, number two I'm not out to hate on anybody creative, number three --- as a somewhat excessive consumer of American media, I just want to be entertained. That's the point of my reviews beyond ego reasons, does this CD entertain me?
On a final note, I do realize that more and more Americans are going to the gym and stuff --- but do we really have a need to lift 300+ pounds (I'm up over 300 again doing presses, but why, why?) --- Or are we going to one day need to prove ourselves with an hour of endurance on the FAT BURNER PLUS setting on the Stairmaster? --- Do we do it to secure love, attractiveness to others, why? I mean, if you're going to burn 500+ cal. in a session you should know why -- If you don't it's almost Matrix-like, you give off heat units, might as well have a machine harness it
And on a radical conservatism/Michael Savage note, what an idiot. He just buried what little credibility he had. He was fired from MSNBC for calling a gay caller a "sodomite" and wished AIDS on him ON THE AIR --- sheesh, that's your conservative love thy neighbor for you--- that's the new face of hate in America, hate that is disguised as so called rational "informed" thought, or what Savage overestimates as what he terms "the truth" --- I'm glad you're going to go away, and I don't think the rest of us will miss you
July 5, 2003
Be a Demagogue Today
It was very odd today, I received an email that wasn't a spam --- which is an event in itself nowadays (sheesh)
The content of the email is not very important, but it was clear that it was not meant for me --- let me clarify.
Yahoo has a member search, and when I did a search on the person --- I found out that this person is an ULTRA CONSERVATIVE --- don't know which side to put emphasis on because hand-in-hand, it's trouble --- big trouble
Not to knock on our friends that listen to AM talk radio, tote guns, think Hawaii is all about the locals and that a certain fair skinned group gets excluded unfairly --- worried about Iraq, North Korea, the Israeli peace plan, the hunt for Osama? --- you may be conservative --- if you believe some of the dunderheads on AM radio without THINKING it through or even Bill O'Reilly on Fox --- it's not so much that you're conservative, but that you should really think for yourself
A certain "independent" (yeah right) named Michael Savage says that many things in our culture today promote the loss of American culture and values --- that is, immigration, language, and culture are being degraded --- funny, but I see these all as a proxy for race --- dominant culture degradation
You voted for Linda Lingle because you wanted change? --- think about what that party stands for --- funny, but the values of that party probably don't match up with 60-70% of the population of Hawaii, yet she won handily
I think the problem is that we don't THINK it through anymore --- we want change, but change from what --- we don't want change, but why do we want the status quo --- this may be what is causing multicultural degradation and general dystopia in the United States --- that's why we go and fight wars to feel good about ourselves --- we trained Osama, now we want to kill him, interesting --- we supplied Saddam with arms in a 11 year civil war against Iran, now we want to kill him, see a pattern?
The problems of today very rarely stand alone, singular, and free from anything that has come before --- yes, we are the only superpower --- yes, we have a very high standard of living --- and you know what else, you have the opportunity to THINK IT THROUGH, vote with your wallet, vote in the booth, vote with your feet --- that's the greatest thing about this country
If I told you not to take it for granted, I would be as big as a demagogue as the rest --- but I urge everyone just to think it through, nothing is as simple as it looks like --- what I see is very different from what you see, and you should not let others define what you see for you --- its just good policy
July 4, 2003
Happy July 4th
Our country has now been around for 227 years, amazing
Hope that all our readers are enjoying the beginning of a great holiday weekend
On a sad note, the Reverend of Love, the master with the dulcet tones --- Barry White --- has passed away today. We at the Luau have always loved the music, the message, and the performances of one of the legends of classic R&B/Soul. You will be missed, your legacy lives on
(ed.note: Reuben, you are now on the clock)
July 3, 2003
What the hell is going on
Well in the absence of my posts, I am pleasantly surprised to see that people are STILL posting to the St. Anger review --- maybe it's time to move on to bigger and better things, priorities in life should be reordered? how the hell is the buzz so continuous on this?
Sorry to say but I didn't go to 28 Days or Charlies Angels last weekend, we did finally see Nemo, and I'm not sure I'm going to review it just yet --- in a nutshell, I thought it was visually stunning, but the story was pretty weak this time. Monsters Inc. is still my Pixar fave
There's more to catch up on, there's T3 this week too, so I guess I should make more time to see movies ... however, I wouldn't count on my reviews being the most timely on them, all apologies
The exciting thing about today was getting some of my BMG special offer order, so as I hack away, I'm being soothed to the lovely strains of Ms. Norah. This is after having just crappy file share copies --- yes, downloading reduces piracy in the long run. It's a little bit late to be reviewing it, but this one simply trounces everything I've heard so far this year
As part of my BMG delivery, I got the great idea to do reviews of classics (so look for that EVENTUALLY, ha) And pretty much, you don't get an A+ or A++ without being a classic. If I had to grade, I think Ms. Norah's work is in that category --- it's almost a moot point to say that her well Grammied CD is an A++ or what we term here as an instant classic
Other than that, life goes on with trying to do school work, and maintain sanity
June 27, 2003
We're BACK UP
... as if you all noticed, ha
We've been gone for most of the week, defeated by technology, I have greater sympathy for Invader Zim now
It's another Friday at the Luau, things are pretty cool --- eventually I hope to get around to posting some of the files I wrote up for this week ... or maybe not
Have a good weekend wherever you all are --- go see some Charlies Angels or 28 Days Later --- if you know the Luau, you know our preference
June 21, 2003
Today's Best
Do you know who DOKAKA is? Well, hit some links and find out. This guy was once a one-man hummed acapella force, apparently he has a band of acapella guys now
The funny part about it is, he does all these great metal songs (plus Led Zeppelin, Steely Dan, Stevie Wonder, and others) by making vocal noises, it's hella cool and pretty much hilarious
This is the link to his website with the cool hummed tunes:
Dokaka's website
June 20, 2003
Friday at the Luau
So anyway, it's really nasty warm day --- which is good, I suppose I shouldn't complain because national news is running stories about how in the eastern portion of our nation, they're waiting for summer to begin ---go figure
Today begins the all-out eatfest here in Honolulu as the annual Easter Seals Taste of Honolulu is going on near City Hall --- we shall go attend and report, hard gig ... ha
The other thing is, this is HULK weekend, isn't it --- I suppose I should get more excited as this was one of my more favorite characters in the Marvel universe --- will report if we go see it this weekend
The other thing is this issue that has baffled me for maybe three years or so. Some people think that you should choose between Iron Maiden or Metallica.
Having listened to IM for twenty one years now, and Met for nineteen, it' s not a choice for me --- it's not a choice between who is better --- it's not a choice between who is more metal (I never found those conversations to be productive in the past 20 years, so why should it be now) --- it's not a choice between who makes better music --- in fact, choosing one over the other does not seem to indicate who carries the banner of metal, and who does not
I never have seen it as a choice. It's been clear through time that these two really are among my most favorite five bands to listen to. And if you've been reading with us for a while, you know that Iron Maiden has two spaces in my top 10 favorite albums of all time --- For me, it's not a choice, both bands have stood the test of time, both bands still hold my interest, whether they remain basically the same or they evolve and change --- it's not a choice for me, but I respect your choices to choose --- even though personally I view that as unnecessarily diminishing your musical options
On that rambling note, we say enjoy the weekend, and enjoy your band of choice
June 18, 2003
Burnout Day
I think I am experiencing the first signs of burnout on my school project thing, which is unfortunate ... but I guess we'll just have to buck up and do it
Some interesting things from today: I heard a clip of new Exodus on Blabbermouth and it sounds really aggressive and thrashy --- then again, did you expect them to change
Ever go to an empty bank, like no tellers, no line, no one sitting at the desks? ... it was like Night of the Comet over at Waipahu BOH this morning ... I counted a total of 4 bank employees total ... and there was only 3 customers in the bank ... summer break or is this branch closing down?
This is an open thought that I've been having for two days now, which is spurred by my going to the 24HF ... why is it that so many people have to work out now? ... is it because we eat too much for what we do in our lives? ... is it related to body image? ... good sales staff? ... dunno
Peace from Luau-ville, my brain hurts
June 17, 2003
In Sync
No, I am not talking about your favorite boy band ... I am talking about my day today.
The day started as it has for three weeks with thesis hell and depression ... but then all of a sudden the light went on, and a new twist on my research topic hit me ... I bounced it off my adviser, and he liked it
Later in the day, I went to Tower Records, just to see if I could find stuff I wanted that was not at Circuit City, and 3 CDs that I wanted were 8.99 and 9.99 ... totally ecstastic about that ...
On a side note, Electric Six FIRE is also on sale for $8.99 at Tower in Honolulu at least ... ha ... these guys are the most interesting and fun music that I've heard maybe in about three months or so ... the combination of disco, arena rock, over the top humor, power chords, and musical excess is just way too damn listenable and funny too .. I don't think I've laughed this much since I listened to Tenacious D ... so go get it, hell it's on sale for cheap -- what do you have to lose?
If I have some time, I may post something ... other than complaints about how have no life outside of prepping thesis stuff ... that would suck and bore you all
I do have some CDs that I haven't reviewed yet, so maybe a review or two
Keep hope alive, and listen to Electric Six --- things may just go your way like they did for me today ... YEAH
June 16, 2003
How a Philharmonic is better than Gary
Courtesy the Las Vegas Mercury
More flap from DLR to keep us entertained
Still the best interview in rock? ... maybe
(in other words, I am experiencing blocks on what to blog about)
June 11, 2003
quick note
Aloha from Luau-ville, as you may have noticed if you've been here a couple of times is that there have been some changes at the Luau
Most notably, no longer is there the annoying countdown applet for St. Anger ... ha
Actually, on a serious note, we just wanted to thank the anti-Servco for his work in helping us do banner task menu categories ... so that you can get at your Luau favorites maybe a tad bit simpler than hunting through our monthly archives ... I can dream, can't I??? ... ha
Ok, the categories go like this:
ESPNot: Sports
Paper or Plastic: Pop Culture, film, DVD, comics, etc.
EarStim: Music or noise, your choice
Yakkin: My whatever type bloggin
ThriftShop: Good ol Fashioned blogs at the best price: FREE
Hope this helps you enjoy the blog a bit better
Its therapeutic for me, yes ... but if I also care if you spend (or waste) time here
Back to the controversial classic on culture by Trompenaars ... YAWWN
June 9, 2003
That music will cost you ...
YOUR LIFE SAVINGS ... and you thought 18.99 was steep
Does that sound improbable? ... not to Jesse Jordan
This past April, the RIAA sued a college freshman for copyright piracy over his creation of a search engine type program that tapped into his college's network (which has a file sharing capability like most networks do) ... oh and some of the computers on the network had music files
This is very unfortunate because it's not like search engines tell you what to search for --- moreover networks don't tell you what files to share ... it's hard to imagine how a search engine encourages or promotes piracy of copyrighted music by itself ... its hard to call it with a straight face: "hijacking an academic network or setting up a musical emporium for trading"
That's like suing Black n Decker for making a hammer that was used in a murder in Thailand --- yes hammers can kill, but that's not their primary purpose
I don't get it ... but the teen had to give up $12000 as a settlement to forgo this lawsuit ... that's his lifesavings
In trade for this bank account hijack, the RIAA let Jesse deny all of their claims against him and won't pursue further action
Translated to English for the nonlegalese:
Jesse, you didn't do anything wrong, and umm, thanks for the 12,000 dollars
Right now at Chewplastic.com there is a donation fund being raised to restore his life savings if you are interested
Another young creative tech mind stifled ... that's your happy story for Monday
Courtesy TechTv, click the link below for more details:
June 7, 2003
Productive Days
Have you ever had one of those days where you just lounge around and watch TV ... and no, not of the food network while on a trip in SF ... sorry, you know who you are
Anyway, since Thursday evening, me and the SheDev have been having marathon 4 episode viewing sessions of 24 ... and it's funny because I never imagined that we would be able to both enjoy this show as much as we do
So I think the count for this weekend is up to 12 episodes ... thank God we are going to get out of the house to go see a concert and see real life living, full of B.O. people ... ha
Not that I don't want to get right back and watch some more ... I do have my priorities in order
June 4, 2003
Something Different Today?
Hmmm, feels like the Luau's been redesigned a bit, no?
Well, it was just your average day here ... trying to figure out why the Treasure Hunt is kind of a bust when Launch, Heavy, and Radioactive Mexico either can't get the stream from the mothership OR are just lame-o dipspits ... nah
Seeing the same intense people (and some not so intense ... I mean, like on vacation lounging at the pool) at 24HF
Reading the same boring as hell tome on research design and methodology
So what the hell is different today ... humidity same and awful
Oh yeah, so I went to Circuit City today on a rumor that they were spilling the Green Cup a day early on us .... well, it had happened this morning all over the continental Forty-Eight
2:30 pm or so at Circuit City Pearl Ridge ... and 12 portraits of founding fathers later
ST. ANGER IS HERE!!!!
(ed.note: and my pal the clerk there said they just put it out this morning, total surprise to them... oh and next week it goes down to $9.99 ... so she said to save your receipts and go get that LOW PRICE GUARANTEE ... two bucks back ... YEAH)
June 3, 2003
Treasure Hunt for Metallica DVD Goodies
(ed.note: well, for whatever its worth, we've given up on this as of Wednesday --- 7 out of 11 by the day they say ... failure)
Well, our buddies Green Cup ... Notallica ... ha
There are 11 sites around the WWW that have the streaming vid of the songs off the DVD that comes with St. Anger ... so again, if you cannot wait until Thurs. these are performance vids of the new material ... its an Easter Egg hunt in June, more like fix that urge you have for new Green Cup music
And yeah, some of the sites have switched tunes from yesterday til today ... oddly enough ... so check em out ... I did ... so find the St. Anger ad with the Squindo art and click your way to some new Met tunes
The hints posted were (with site links and requires either WMP or Real to play):
EA Sports
- This company is the MVP of Maddeningly great sports video games
MSN Entertainment
- Your Gates-way to the hottest new music and music news
Yahoo! Launch
- Where new music blasts off
Heavy
- The sumo wrestler of websites
Synthesis
- Where music, movies, technology, contests and more are synthesized into something net. Oops, we mean something new.
Site 6:
- Highly toxic radio south of the border
MTV Germany
- Germanic Icon makers
EA Australia
- Same as the U.S. video game site, but Down Under
Tchatche
- Le ringtones et Le logos
Kerrang!
- This magazine/site name rhymes with twang
DotMusic
- "." music
June 2, 2003
Back to the routine
Today is back to school day ... I guess it's kind of a get back in the swing; get back in the routine day for the Luau ... a lot of rust has built up over the past month so hopefully we can shake it off and get back in gear
On a side note, for those who have watched this site degrade totally in anticipation of Metallica's new album, there was a press release this morning from Elektra Records that they would move up the release date to this Thursday ... a whole 5 days!!! ... and the reason given was avoidance of piracy and allowing fans the opportunity to listen to full production as opposed to substandard audio copies ... so some good news today (to me at least ... ha)
Oh, and "NOT"Allica making an unofficial secret return to Donington yesterday ...
(Image: 2003 Metallica)
May 27, 2003
Cute She Devil's Corner
... let's go to the Magic Island and watch the lanterns
(Little did I know, having a persistent cough ALSO makes one unable to TYPE ... sheesh)
May 26, 2003
Memorial Day
At the Luau, we would like to thank those who made the ultimate sacrifice in American participation in wars. Especially to the families who have recently lost loved ones in our strike against Iraq.
Our research department has found that this holiday was originally started to commemorate Civil War dead, but later was extended to cover all American war dead. There was once a set date of May 30, now most of America commemorates this day on the last Monday of May.
Quite frankly, without these great men and women, jackoffs like me probably don't get the opportunity to write pointlessly and endlessly about really small and trivial stuff
We at the Luau appreciate your great sacrifice in the name of freedom and a peaceful world
May 25, 2003
Weekend Edition III: Rehashed
Another Sunday at the Luau ...
Another week without entries ... ha ... sorry
After spending the weekend with SheDev, the exciting highlight of the weekend was finishing up a PUZZ3-D Imperial Star Destroyer which we started ... ummm ... like over a year ago ... time slips away on me, I admit it
I did have some things I wrote about this week, but just never got around to hanging up on site, so I shall work on that in a bit
Otherwise, just another Sunday in Luauland
May 18, 2003
Weekend Edition Part Deux
Hi again, its your friends at the Luau
Seven days without a blog, did you miss us? uhh yeah ... ha
It has been an eventful week for the ownership and the pals of the ownership (who make this thing happen), we all hope and pray that everything turns out favorably and that life can return to normal for everyone
So as the kinks are being worked out, we ask your patience ... in the assumption that someone actually cares to read these mutterings and yatterings ... ha
Have a good Sunday all, we'll be back in a bit
(after the owner gets his fatass to the gym)
May 16, 2003
Friday Fun?
(ed.note: Okay, you know we weren't posting on Friday, but this is something we found out about on Friday that made life really cool)
If you like Metallica, you're probably going to like this:
It's a promo video cut from the Metallica documentary coming out next Spring (and yeah, lotsa CLIPS from St. Anger ... so if you don't want your experience slightly spoiled on June 10th ... best you stay away ... otw ENJOY)
Metallica Promo (Requires WMP)
(Video courtesy (authored by at least?): Universal Music Int'l.)
May 11, 2003
Weekend Edition
Maybe next time I'll give you print out coupons as well for Prell and Aquafresh and Burrito Supremes ... ha
In a big fit of laziness, the owner here is giving you two days in one WEEKEND EDITION ... much like newspapers do
Nothing much going on this weekend at the Luau ... well three observations
The first one is I finally had time to sit through beginning to end of The Matrix ... now, previously I'd seen bits and pieces of it, and come in at here and yon ... so I finally saw it beginning to end ... and it's very entertaining ... I'm not sure the hype about the series that is building right now is necessarily justified ... actually it's a bit OVERSTATED ... but I guess they want you to go to the two movies in six months ... sooo
The second thing I noticed is ... do you have the same conversations with people over and over ... a deja vu ... yeah, a glitch, or change of the The Matrix ... ha ... Well, I seem to be having the same conversation with my Korean haircut lady over and over and over ... in fact she says the same stuff to me, odd
Lastly, I finally got to watch some of my 24 boxed set ... and I must say, this may be the best show on TV ... I don't watch regularly enough to keep up weekly, but thank God for boxsets, huh? ... yeah ... and its the perfect role for the Lost Boy, the Kiefermeister
May 9, 2003
Money for Me???
A little while ago, you and I and every other American did their pay the government ritual ...
Here's what I don't get ... this year I got money back ... a fairly large amount of money back .... now last tax year, working same job, same circumstances pretty much ... I owe money
How does this thing work? --- beyond honestly wanting to know, I wouldn't be surprised if the IRS had a random number generator positive and negative that goes out two decimal places
Or maybe it's those Bush tax cuts .... whoohoo ... yeah I'm gonna take my money and inves ... I mean, buy a pizza ... now that's economic stimulus for you
Friday at the more prosperous Luau ... ha
May 5, 2003
Monday Is
Ok, so I noticed two things today so far
Number One, yes the cars do move OUT of the Circuit City parking lot, it is NOT perpetually in a state of stupid congestion and no possibility of parking ... this however is at 9:25am ... come back at 10:30 am ... no parking to be begged, borrowed, or stolen
Number two, 24 hour fitness is really busy in the morning ... with WOMEN ... and its funny, not because I'm going to go on a sexist rampage ... and not because it's so good to look at ... ITS REALLY NOT ....
How do I put this gently ... umm, the people in PURPLE and BLACK should really get to training women how to use the equipment ... I saw about 10 instances ... yes 10!!!! ... where women are going to hurt themselves sooner or later because they don't know how to use it properly .... and its usually the crazy aggro wahines who want to enter Ms Fitness Hawaii (so Im not picking on Grandma who never worked out until yesterday, they usually get trainers to monitor them)
more later, maybe ... ha
May 3, 2003
Free Comic Book Day!
Here at the Luau, we are celebrating Saturday ... which is national Free Comic Book Day ... seriously
I never imagined the impact that comics had on learning to read and in fostering a very creative imagination
So if you're a parent, or just haven't read a comic book in a while ... why don't you go out to your local small business in need of support -- the comic book store and go get a comic ... and then BUY a few more, thank me later
(ed.note: and if you're wondering, YES, Hawaii is participating ... see your Saturday Advertiser .... I got a FREE issue of XMen #1 (1991) from Jellys, the new series ... Cool!)
(Image (c) Marvel Entertainment)
April 28, 2003
A little bit before Radio Silence
Monday at the Luau (after a really MIXED weekend)
Where I am pondering what it means to have an equal number of entries and comments
Sorry, but don't expect much out of me today as I am putting the wraps on my Strategic Management capstone class ... surely my 2 readers know that one does not live by blog alone ... righttttt ... ha
Be back full force Tuesday ... or Wednesday if I'm totally crapt out
April 25, 2003
Faith in our democratic process
I worked until very late today actually 11:15pm ... today is the last big deadline of the legislative session of the state of Hawaii
I could not have imagined the feeling of satisfaction that I felt at the end of the night ... let me explain why I feel a renewed faith in our state government and in the democratic structure which promotes a separation of powers --- here the executive branch (Governor) and the Legislature (Senate in particular)
April 23, 2003
What the hell was the point?
Ok, all weekend I read stories and saw splash pages with hear the new "leaked" Madonna album ... I dunno, she's not that terribly relevant or high on my priorities of informational urge so I let it pass
Formative Years
Leave it to my pal to get me thinking really hard about the music which provided the soundtrack to my formative years ... which for the purpose of this exercise shall be 1977-1987 or so ... I guess another aspect of this is that my girlfriend SheDev said that she should know some of the CDs that I would bring to the desert island ... well, she got ONE out of 10 ... which made me think that I should write something about my formative years and what made an impression on me
(editor's note: wee hours of morning Wednesday, this blog entry is bombucha sized ... feel free to read it in pieces or however you want ... its more my therapy than your homework)
April 21, 2003
Remotely Appreciated ...
In Portuguese Speaking Nations!!! : )
Just here for some quick blogging -
I found it incredibly hilarious that I was rated 3.8 on this bloglist site, so I looked to see if it was a 4 or 5 point scale
April 20, 2003
Easter Sunday
It's odd but I was wondering today after I got back from the gym, what this Easter thing is all about... yeah, I do know that Christians have religious significance attached to today ... and something about fertility in pagan societies and hares ... and WHY must CompUSA close today ... WHYYYYY!?!?!?!?
April 18, 2003
In Honor of the Carpenter's Son
Make the sadness go away
Come back another day
For years I've tried to teach
But their eyes are empty
April 13, 2003
Simple Things
I had a good day today.
SheDev and I went to go see Matrix's new dog ... and it is really a nice dog with a good personality ... great great animal, and I can tell that he is really happy with it too
April 10, 2003
STATUE TOPPLING TIPS FOR THE KIDDIES
Okay, here at the Luau
We're always trying to be helpful
And if we can help out kids, so much the better
This is worth something?!?!?!?!
Good Morning from your friendly internet Luau,
According to our pals at Blogshares.com,
Satan's Luau is worth something... finally some VALIDATION ... ha
More like, PITY VALUATION
I guess when people actually start coming here (besides me),
The value will DROP tremendously... so SHHHHHHHHHH
April 9, 2003
What a wicked game
Wayne, your inner rock star is Chris Isaak!
Now, this is the most hilarious thing I've ever read .. I've never imagined me and Chrissy to be so similar
April 7, 2003
Don't call it a comeback!!!
then again ... there's not much 30 million reasons (British pounds sterling) can't make you do in 03
(Image (c) 2003 Duran Duran)
April 6, 2003
I am what I am because of you
They fought for a nation
That was mistreating their families.
And it was they,
Who in those shameful moments,
Who were true patriots.
And we must never forget that.
In honor of the 60th anniversary
Of the US Army's 442nd Regimental Combat Team (World War II)
Okage sama de, 442nd --- Thank you!
(ed. note: Images are clickable for more information)
(Image (c) 2003 Go For Broke Foundation)
April 1, 2003
Now You Can Crush the Heathens at Home!!!
Now you can stage the Battle for Heaven and Religious Supremacy at Home!!!
Now courtesy our friends at the Jesus Christ Superstore,
Believers can buy God and Jesus Figures to fight the evil pagan and heathen religious figures.
Continue reading "Now You Can Crush the Heathens at Home!!!" »
March 28, 2003
Cute She Devil's Corner
... I want to learn how to fold origami cranes, do you know how?
(Little did I know, bronchitis makes one unable to TYPE as well ... sheesh)
Only on MSN
AND YOU THOUGHT I WAS KIDDING .... BACHIIIIIIIII!!
(Ed. note: As if by calling on its evil name, bachi can be brought into your life ... After making fun of my friend's car electrical problems I had to change my car battery ... COINCIDENCE? um no, BACHIIIIII)
(Credit to Tim Drage for the instructions)
March 22, 2003
I'm not a doctor, but I play one on TV
I'm not the president, but I play one on TV ... Martin Sheen and other famous celebs basically use their status in our society to state their positions on politics, the war, vegetarianism, and what have you
It reminds me of when the guy from Marcus Welby used to plug for a major painkiller by using those now-famous words... I'm not a doctor, I just play one on TV
March 21, 2003
Cute She Devil's Corner
"Cancel This!" is what she said when I told her to post something
Who?, you might say
Well, I think that for a changeup, maybe once a week, or month
or 2 years ... my girlfriend She Devil will post something on the blog
So Cute She Devil and her minions say "HI"
... and more to come later
(Image Copyright (c) 2003 Hookups)
Birdhouse in your news coverage
Ok, so me and my girlfriend were talking last night
And wow, surprise surprise, the war came up.
Well, I should say the SUPERIOR anchor-led coverage came up.
Where the humuhumunukunukuapuaa goes swimming by...
Alright, I finally got a blog entry up ...
Ooh, shock and awe!!!, shock and awe!!!
(Image is Copyright � 2000 - 2003 Comedy Partners, South Park episode #410 "Do The Handicapped Go To Hell", made available by http://www.southparkstudios.com for free download).
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