culture archives
Dec
23
2009
Lost and Found
This week we bought the illustrated children's book Lost and Found as a gift for a friend's little boy. This evening, Rob came across the trailer for an animated short based on the book: (If you can't see the video...
This week we bought the illustrated children's book Lost and Found as a gift for a friend's little boy. This evening, Rob came across the trailer for an animated short based on the book: (If you can't see the video...
Dec
22
2009
Fanfarlo
Last week, chamber pop band Fanfarlo played a "Tiny Desk" concert at the office. Their sound is somewhere between Arcade Fire and Beirut, and I really like their album Reservoir. (If you can't see the video above, it's available on...
Last week, chamber pop band Fanfarlo played a "Tiny Desk" concert at the office. Their sound is somewhere between Arcade Fire and Beirut, and I really like their album Reservoir. (If you can't see the video above, it's available on...
Dec
6
2009
The Jazz Loft
About this project: In the late '50s and early '60s, photographer W. Eugene Smith made approximately 4,000 hours of reel-to-reel tape recordings, and took nearly 40,000 photos, in his lower Manhattan loft apartment. His was a building where the...
About this project: In the late '50s and early '60s, photographer W. Eugene Smith made approximately 4,000 hours of reel-to-reel tape recordings, and took nearly 40,000 photos, in his lower Manhattan loft apartment. His was a building where the...
Nov
8
2009
Andrew Bird and St. Vincent
Rob and I recently saw Andrew Bird play at the 9:30 Club, with opener St. Vincent. This was my third Bird show this year (saw him solo in February, then opening for the Decemberists this summer), and I very...
Rob and I recently saw Andrew Bird play at the 9:30 Club, with opener St. Vincent. This was my third Bird show this year (saw him solo in February, then opening for the Decemberists this summer), and I very...
Nov
3
2009
50 Great Voices
About the project: In January 2010, NPR will launch a year-long exploration of 50 great voices in recorded history. The series isn't an attempt to catalog the so-called "greatest" singers. Instead, we hope to discover and re-discover awe-inspiring vocalists...
About the project: In January 2010, NPR will launch a year-long exploration of 50 great voices in recorded history. The series isn't an attempt to catalog the so-called "greatest" singers. Instead, we hope to discover and re-discover awe-inspiring vocalists...
Oct
30
2009
Superhero Supply
Rob, Dari and I went up to New York on Sunday / Monday in part to attend a taping of The Daily Show. While in town, we checked out the Vermeer and (very cool) samurai exhibits at the Met, ate...
Rob, Dari and I went up to New York on Sunday / Monday in part to attend a taping of The Daily Show. While in town, we checked out the Vermeer and (very cool) samurai exhibits at the Met, ate...
Oct
6
2009
Genius Playlist
Lately I've grown tired of Apple's "genius playlist" feature for iTunes and the iPod, largely because it seemed to be suggesting the same songs over and over again. Today, though, it surprised me with something pretty cool, surfacing several hidden...
Lately I've grown tired of Apple's "genius playlist" feature for iTunes and the iPod, largely because it seemed to be suggesting the same songs over and over again. Today, though, it surprised me with something pretty cool, surfacing several hidden...
Sep
30
2009
Light My Way
U2 put on quite the show last night at FedEx Field, part of their "U2 360" tour. More Photos From The Concert »...
U2 put on quite the show last night at FedEx Field, part of their "U2 360" tour. More Photos From The Concert »...
Sep
15
2009
Tall Man, Tiny Desk
A couple months ago, I mentioned an NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert by Swedish folk singer The Tallest Man on Earth. Video of that three-song set was posted to the Web site this week: (If you can't see the video...
A couple months ago, I mentioned an NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert by Swedish folk singer The Tallest Man on Earth. Video of that three-song set was posted to the Web site this week: (If you can't see the video...
Aug
7
2009
Souverian
Pitchfork.tv has a lovely series of videos of singer / violinist / guitarist / whistler Andrew Bird playing solo in a church. The videos also offer a closer look at how Bird uses his loop machine in live shows to...
Pitchfork.tv has a lovely series of videos of singer / violinist / guitarist / whistler Andrew Bird playing solo in a church. The videos also offer a closer look at how Bird uses his loop machine in live shows to...
Jun
16
2009
The Tallest Man on Earth
One of the undeniable perks of working for NPR is that talented musicians often stop by -- and sometimes even put on a small show. We've had a steady stream of indie folk / rock acts come through in the...
One of the undeniable perks of working for NPR is that talented musicians often stop by -- and sometimes even put on a small show. We've had a steady stream of indie folk / rock acts come through in the...
Jun
15
2009
Jenny Lewis at the 9:30 Club
On Thursday, Rob, Michaela and I saw Jenny Lewis perform at DC's 9:30 Club. There were some unfortunate sound issues at the very beginning -- Lewis's mic was muted for all but the last word of her opening song "See...
On Thursday, Rob, Michaela and I saw Jenny Lewis perform at DC's 9:30 Club. There were some unfortunate sound issues at the very beginning -- Lewis's mic was muted for all but the last word of her opening song "See...
Thug Life at the Clarendon Ballroom
Probably everyone has seen this by now, but I'm linking to it anyway because it makes me laugh: If you can't see the video above, it's available on YouTube. Welcome to Arlington (or, at least, the Orange Line corridor). We...
Probably everyone has seen this by now, but I'm linking to it anyway because it makes me laugh: If you can't see the video above, it's available on YouTube. Welcome to Arlington (or, at least, the Orange Line corridor). We...
May
20
2009
stand by me
This lovely cover of "Stand By Me" features musicians from around the world. The video opens with a man singing and playing guitar in California, and gradually other vocals and instrumentals are layered in. (If you can't see the video...
This lovely cover of "Stand By Me" features musicians from around the world. The video opens with a man singing and playing guitar in California, and gradually other vocals and instrumentals are layered in. (If you can't see the video...
May
5
2009
chart crazy
"Honey, this is the graphics department. We can make as many graphs and as many charts in as many colors on as many kinds of paper as you want." Last night's episode of How I Met Your Mother had a...
"Honey, this is the graphics department. We can make as many graphs and as many charts in as many colors on as many kinds of paper as you want." Last night's episode of How I Met Your Mother had a...
Mar
21
2009
song of the moment: french navy
I'm really digging the new song from Camera Obscura, "French Navy": (If you can't see the video above, it's available on YouTube.) (Video link via Culture Bully.) It's a pity the band's new album, My Maudlin Career, doesn't come out...
I'm really digging the new song from Camera Obscura, "French Navy": (If you can't see the video above, it's available on YouTube.) (Video link via Culture Bully.) It's a pity the band's new album, My Maudlin Career, doesn't come out...
Mar
11
2009
i am game
I first came across Lisa Hannigan's sweet song "I Don't Know" back in November, but her recent appearance on The Colbert Report and a mention on the Craft: blog put her back on my radar. (And I'm kicking myself for...
I first came across Lisa Hannigan's sweet song "I Don't Know" back in November, but her recent appearance on The Colbert Report and a mention on the Craft: blog put her back on my radar. (And I'm kicking myself for...
Mar
9
2009
in-studio
One of the advantages of working for an organization with such a great music presence is that artists drop by on occasion for interviews and in-studio performances. When that happens, sometimes it's possible to listen in on those 3-to-4-song mini-concerts...
One of the advantages of working for an organization with such a great music presence is that artists drop by on occasion for interviews and in-studio performances. When that happens, sometimes it's possible to listen in on those 3-to-4-song mini-concerts...
Mar
2
2009
stop-motion sleep
Love this video for "Her Morning Elegance" by Oren Lavie, from the album The Opposite Side of the Sea: (If you don't see the video above, it's available on YouTube. (Link via swissmiss.)...
Love this video for "Her Morning Elegance" by Oren Lavie, from the album The Opposite Side of the Sea: (If you don't see the video above, it's available on YouTube. (Link via swissmiss.)...
Jan
11
2009
quote of the day: lyrical
Death Cab for Cutie's recent album Narrow Stairs has really grown on me lately. I was put off by the first single, "I Will Possess Your Heart," but, for me, the real standouts are "Cath...," "No Sunlight" and "You Can...
Death Cab for Cutie's recent album Narrow Stairs has really grown on me lately. I was put off by the first single, "I Will Possess Your Heart," but, for me, the real standouts are "Cath...," "No Sunlight" and "You Can...
Jan
7
2009
that is because you crazy
I stumbled across an old favorite this evening while poking around YouTube: If the video doesn't appear above, it's available on YouTube....
I stumbled across an old favorite this evening while poking around YouTube: If the video doesn't appear above, it's available on YouTube....
Oct
10
2008
this american life
In the interest of posting something other than regurgitated del.icio.us links, here's a Chris Ware-animated segment from the most recent season of television's This American Life. Ware also animated a segment for the show's first season. (Link via The Beat,...
In the interest of posting something other than regurgitated del.icio.us links, here's a Chris Ware-animated segment from the most recent season of television's This American Life. Ware also animated a segment for the show's first season. (Link via The Beat,...
Sep
10
2008
genius music
I'm playing around with the new Genius Playlist feature in iTunes, and I'm really digging what it's coming up with. Tonight, I had Vampire Weekend stuck in my head after hearing that they'll be playing at the 9:30 Club later...
I'm playing around with the new Genius Playlist feature in iTunes, and I'm really digging what it's coming up with. Tonight, I had Vampire Weekend stuck in my head after hearing that they'll be playing at the 9:30 Club later...
Aug
8
2008
aimee mann and the submarines
Last weekend, Rob and I saw Aimee Mann, with opening act The Submarines, at the 9:30 Club. Mann is touring in support of her new album @#%&*! Smilers, while The Submarines' track "You, Me and the Bourgeoisie" is, perhaps...
Last weekend, Rob and I saw Aimee Mann, with opening act The Submarines, at the 9:30 Club. Mann is touring in support of her new album @#%&*! Smilers, while The Submarines' track "You, Me and the Bourgeoisie" is, perhaps...
May
24
2008
samba
This game looks ridiculous, hilarious and a whole lot of fun, all at once: (The maraca-wielding monkey totally makes this ad.) It looks like it'd be an awesome party game. Adding it to my list... (Link via Dari, via Kearns.)...
This game looks ridiculous, hilarious and a whole lot of fun, all at once: (The maraca-wielding monkey totally makes this ad.) It looks like it'd be an awesome party game. Adding it to my list... (Link via Dari, via Kearns.)...
Apr
23
2008
what i'm reading: at the library
Arlington County Public Library's online catalog has long offered the ability to "hold" a title and have it delivered to the branch location of your choice. Meanwhile, recent renovations to the main Arlington County Government building in Courthouse Plaza included...
Arlington County Public Library's online catalog has long offered the ability to "hold" a title and have it delivered to the branch location of your choice. Meanwhile, recent renovations to the main Arlington County Government building in Courthouse Plaza included...
Mar
23
2008
poor jon
I've linked to it before, but I feel compelled yet again to express my love for Garfield Minus Garfield, a site that, as the name suggests, erases the titular housecat from the comic. What's left is the surprisingly sad...
I've linked to it before, but I feel compelled yet again to express my love for Garfield Minus Garfield, a site that, as the name suggests, erases the titular housecat from the comic. What's left is the surprisingly sad...
Mar
17
2008
superhero supply
The next time I go to New York, I just have to check this place out. (Photo by silvertje, found on Flickr.)...
The next time I go to New York, I just have to check this place out. (Photo by silvertje, found on Flickr.)...
Mar
6
2008
kitchen night off
I had written MasterCard's "Priceless" ad campaign off as having lost all its charm through overuse, but this new ad is actually rather cleverly done: (I missed seeing it when it apparently first ran during the Oscars -- I'd skipped...
I had written MasterCard's "Priceless" ad campaign off as having lost all its charm through overuse, but this new ad is actually rather cleverly done: (I missed seeing it when it apparently first ran during the Oscars -- I'd skipped...
Mar
5
2008
quote of the day: control
"I am so excited to follow [the Ohio and Texas primary election] returns that I am not following these returns. I am TiVoing CNN at home. I like to touch my TV screen whenever John King touches his TV screen....
"I am so excited to follow [the Ohio and Texas primary election] returns that I am not following these returns. I am TiVoing CNN at home. I like to touch my TV screen whenever John King touches his TV screen....
Feb
20
2008
transit map of the world
I came across the book Transit Maps of the World at the National Gallery last November and was instantly (geekily) enamored of it and its large collection of (as the name implies) public transit (train, subway, etc.) maps --...
I came across the book Transit Maps of the World at the National Gallery last November and was instantly (geekily) enamored of it and its large collection of (as the name implies) public transit (train, subway, etc.) maps --...
Jan
28
2008
portrait gallery
A side-benefit of going to see the Stephen Colbert portrait at the National Portrait Gallery is that I finally went to the National Portrait Gallery. The building, which also houses the Smithsonian American Art Museum, was under massive renovation...
A side-benefit of going to see the Stephen Colbert portrait at the National Portrait Gallery is that I finally went to the National Portrait Gallery. The building, which also houses the Smithsonian American Art Museum, was under massive renovation...
national treasure
Earlier this month, The Colbert Report aired a multi-part mini-saga of Stephen Colbert's efforts to have his portrait hung in one of the Smithsonian museums. The end result was that the National Portrait Gallery agreed to display his portrait for...
Earlier this month, The Colbert Report aired a multi-part mini-saga of Stephen Colbert's efforts to have his portrait hung in one of the Smithsonian museums. The end result was that the National Portrait Gallery agreed to display his portrait for...
Jan
24
2008
don't shop when you're hungry, no no no
During my brief tenure in Okinawa (1988-89), the only English-language TV station was run by the American Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS). The television shows were typically a season or two behind the U.S., and in lieu of ads,...
During my brief tenure in Okinawa (1988-89), the only English-language TV station was run by the American Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS). The television shows were typically a season or two behind the U.S., and in lieu of ads,...
Dec
8
2007
who is andrew jackson?
Interesting bit of political trivia from yesterday's episode of Jeopardy: The Democratic Party's symbol dates back to 1828, when this man was called a jackass in his run for the presidency...
Interesting bit of political trivia from yesterday's episode of Jeopardy: The Democratic Party's symbol dates back to 1828, when this man was called a jackass in his run for the presidency...
Dec
4
2007
not my kind of technology
I consider myself fairly savvy when it comes to dealing with technology -- at least, computer technology. But put me in front of a jammed copier, a fax machine or a fancy coffeemaker in need of emptying (today's challenge), and...
I consider myself fairly savvy when it comes to dealing with technology -- at least, computer technology. But put me in front of a jammed copier, a fax machine or a fancy coffeemaker in need of emptying (today's challenge), and...
Nov
27
2007
road games
Rob and I drove down to South Carolina for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, a trip that generally entails between seven and eight hours on the road (depending on traffic and pit stops). To help pass the time, we sometimes play...
Rob and I drove down to South Carolina for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, a trip that generally entails between seven and eight hours on the road (depending on traffic and pit stops). To help pass the time, we sometimes play...
Nov
26
2007
seen: don't stop
Apparently this graffiti artist was a Journey fan. Seen at Folly Island, near Charleston, S.C....
Apparently this graffiti artist was a Journey fan. Seen at Folly Island, near Charleston, S.C....
Nov
21
2007
the great wakkorotti
(If you can't see the video above, it's available on YouTube.) It's silly and juvenile, but it still makes me laugh this Thanksgiving Eve....
(If you can't see the video above, it's available on YouTube.) It's silly and juvenile, but it still makes me laugh this Thanksgiving Eve....
Nov
2
2007
los dias de los muertos
Today marks the last day of the three-day Day of the Dead holiday. There's so much I love about this holiday: the playful-yet-respectful attitude towards death, the brightly-colored festivities, the beautiful artwork. A few years ago I helped design...
Today marks the last day of the three-day Day of the Dead holiday. There's so much I love about this holiday: the playful-yet-respectful attitude towards death, the brightly-colored festivities, the beautiful artwork. A few years ago I helped design...
Oct
31
2007
Oct
23
2007
meet the candidate
Stephen Colbert had a brilliant turn this past weekend on NBC's Meet the Press as he discussed his book and his presidential candidacy (in South Carolina only) with host Tim Russert. It started out a bit shaky, but the second...
Stephen Colbert had a brilliant turn this past weekend on NBC's Meet the Press as he discussed his book and his presidential candidacy (in South Carolina only) with host Tim Russert. It started out a bit shaky, but the second...
Oct
22
2007
simian
One of the music podcasts I listen to just had an episode featuring a band called Simian Mobile Disco. I have no idea if they're any good -- and part of me doesn't want to know, preferring to to keep...
One of the music podcasts I listen to just had an episode featuring a band called Simian Mobile Disco. I have no idea if they're any good -- and part of me doesn't want to know, preferring to to keep...
Oct
21
2007
seeing stars
The Canadian indie pop band Stars was in town last night for a show at the 9:30 Club. Having never seen them live before, I was unsure of what to expect, but I really enjoyed it. They're even a...
The Canadian indie pop band Stars was in town last night for a show at the 9:30 Club. Having never seen them live before, I was unsure of what to expect, but I really enjoyed it. They're even a...
Oct
1
2007
wonky nerdy
After a long hiatus, my TiVo suddenly started recording episodes of The West Wing again. The episodes in question were from those first few seasons when the show was especially good. But looking at the episode descriptions, the show sounds...
After a long hiatus, my TiVo suddenly started recording episodes of The West Wing again. The episodes in question were from those first few seasons when the show was especially good. But looking at the episode descriptions, the show sounds...
Sep
29
2007
more than that
By random chance, I happened upon a Web site to a vary similar domain name this this one earlier today -- MoreThanThat.net (vs. MoreThanThis.net). The kicker: It's a short-lived (Aug.-Nov. 2006) fansite for Jim and Pam of The Office. Granted,...
By random chance, I happened upon a Web site to a vary similar domain name this this one earlier today -- MoreThanThat.net (vs. MoreThanThis.net). The kicker: It's a short-lived (Aug.-Nov. 2006) fansite for Jim and Pam of The Office. Granted,...
Sep
20
2007
flick-arr!
I love how Flickr got into the spirit of things for yesterday's Talk Like a Pirate Day. The site, which offers a variety of language options (from English to Chinese to Portuguese), added a "pirate" language option for the...
I love how Flickr got into the spirit of things for yesterday's Talk Like a Pirate Day. The site, which offers a variety of language options (from English to Chinese to Portuguese), added a "pirate" language option for the...
Sep
18
2007
quote of the day: small talk
"Small talk is small in every way except when you try to get around it. Then it's enormous." -- Chip Kidd on avoiding awkward conversations, in the novel ...
"Small talk is small in every way except when you try to get around it. Then it's enormous." -- Chip Kidd on avoiding awkward conversations, in the novel ...
Sep
15
2007
across the universe
For whatever reason, I'm ridiculously excited that Across the Universe is out this weekend. (Thank you, Rob for the reminder.) I've wanted to see it since I saw this trailer a month or two ago: (If you can't see the...
For whatever reason, I'm ridiculously excited that Across the Universe is out this weekend. (Thank you, Rob for the reminder.) I've wanted to see it since I saw this trailer a month or two ago: (If you can't see the...
Sep
5
2007
design nerdity at the movies
Design blogger swissmiss pointed out earlier this week that someone took the intro and closing credits from the movie Stranger Than Fiction and posted them to YouTube. I adored all the little infographics that popped up during the introduction of...
Design blogger swissmiss pointed out earlier this week that someone took the intro and closing credits from the movie Stranger Than Fiction and posted them to YouTube. I adored all the little infographics that popped up during the introduction of...
Aug
28
2007
regrets: hobbies
As I type this, Jim Coudal is giving a closing talk at An Event Apart about creativity and enthusiasm and channeling that into your work. As an example, he showed a short film by Steve Delahoyde about a guy who's...
As I type this, Jim Coudal is giving a closing talk at An Event Apart about creativity and enthusiasm and channeling that into your work. As an example, he showed a short film by Steve Delahoyde about a guy who's...
Aug
22
2007
word of the day: meh-tastic
Spotted today in a comment thread on DCist: Naan and Beyond is meh-tastic. Ugh. "Meh" -- as in, "an expression of indifference and and a decided lack of enthusiasm, bordering on disdain." The "tastic" suffix just multiplies the inherent "meh"-ness...
Spotted today in a comment thread on DCist: Naan and Beyond is meh-tastic. Ugh. "Meh" -- as in, "an expression of indifference and and a decided lack of enthusiasm, bordering on disdain." The "tastic" suffix just multiplies the inherent "meh"-ness...
Aug
17
2007
star witness
Last night, I got to see a great show by Neko Case at the 9:30 Club. And, man, does she have a voice. I'd heard her on recordings, of course, but it's something else to hear her live and know...
Last night, I got to see a great show by Neko Case at the 9:30 Club. And, man, does she have a voice. I'd heard her on recordings, of course, but it's something else to hear her live and know...
Aug
1
2007
photo of the day: order of the phoenix
This photo was taken last month outside the Uptown Theater in D.C.'s Cleveland Park neighborhood. The movie theater, which dates back to the 1930s, has a large roof / overhang over the entrance, and there are lights arrayed in...
This photo was taken last month outside the Uptown Theater in D.C.'s Cleveland Park neighborhood. The movie theater, which dates back to the 1930s, has a large roof / overhang over the entrance, and there are lights arrayed in...
Jul
21
2007
once more, with feeling
Last night, I went with some friends to the Buffy Singalong at the Avalon Theatre in DC. Yes, a singalong to the Buffy: The Vampire Slayer musical episode "Once More, With Feeling." For some reason, in talking about this,...
Last night, I went with some friends to the Buffy Singalong at the Avalon Theatre in DC. Yes, a singalong to the Buffy: The Vampire Slayer musical episode "Once More, With Feeling." For some reason, in talking about this,...
Jul
18
2007
spider-pig
I was iffy about the Simpsons movie ... until I saw this bit in the most recent trailer: (If you can't see the video above, it's available on YouTube.) I can't explain it, but I can't stop giggling. The best...
I was iffy about the Simpsons movie ... until I saw this bit in the most recent trailer: (If you can't see the video above, it's available on YouTube.) I can't explain it, but I can't stop giggling. The best...
Jul
2
2007
at the quick stop
There are a few interests that my youngest brother Ross and I share that the rest of the family doesn't totally get. One of those things is a love of comic books. Another is an appreciation of Kevin Smith...
There are a few interests that my youngest brother Ross and I share that the rest of the family doesn't totally get. One of those things is a love of comic books. Another is an appreciation of Kevin Smith...
owly
I have a new favorite comic book character, and his name is Owly. Owly is a little owl who, with his little partner-in-crime Wormy, goes on small adventures and tries to make friends with other woodland creatures. It's refreshingly...
I have a new favorite comic book character, and his name is Owly. Owly is a little owl who, with his little partner-in-crime Wormy, goes on small adventures and tries to make friends with other woodland creatures. It's refreshingly...
Jul
1
2007
show steve the money
With all the hype, one thing is certain: Steve Jobs is making a whole lot of money this weekend. Friday was the much-ballyhooed launch date for the vaunted Apple iPhone. Rob, Dari and I had some time to kill before...
With all the hype, one thing is certain: Steve Jobs is making a whole lot of money this weekend. Friday was the much-ballyhooed launch date for the vaunted Apple iPhone. Rob, Dari and I had some time to kill before...
Jun
28
2007
comicbooking
While we were in New York on Saturday, Rob and I made a point to check out the MoCCA Art Fest -- basically a kind of comicon for folks who produce and enjoy independent comics and graphic novels, sponsored by...
While we were in New York on Saturday, Rob and I made a point to check out the MoCCA Art Fest -- basically a kind of comicon for folks who produce and enjoy independent comics and graphic novels, sponsored by...
Jun
20
2007
a love / hate relationship
When I first saw the documentary Helvetica at SXSW, I was given an "I Hate Helvetica" mini-button, which I affixed to the front pocket of my purse. On Saturday, I was able to complete the set, picking up an...
When I first saw the documentary Helvetica at SXSW, I was given an "I Hate Helvetica" mini-button, which I affixed to the front pocket of my purse. On Saturday, I was able to complete the set, picking up an...
Jun
19
2007
random trivia of the day
From the "I'd never really given it much thought, but now that I've read it I can't get rid of the mental image" files... Slate had an explainer yesterday explaining some of the child labor rules about the employment of...
From the "I'd never really given it much thought, but now that I've read it I can't get rid of the mental image" files... Slate had an explainer yesterday explaining some of the child labor rules about the employment of...
Jun
18
2007
chins up, ladies
On Thursday I went to a reading / booksigning by Laurie Notaro, a humor writer I used to work with at The Arizona Republic. We both left the Republic around the same time in the summer of 2002 --...
On Thursday I went to a reading / booksigning by Laurie Notaro, a humor writer I used to work with at The Arizona Republic. We both left the Republic around the same time in the summer of 2002 --...
Jun
5
2007
creature feature
It brought me great joy on Monday when I came across a certain television preview in the day's paper. The big news: Aardman Animations, which apparently has bounced back from its tragic warehouse fire of 2005, has a new...
It brought me great joy on Monday when I came across a certain television preview in the day's paper. The big news: Aardman Animations, which apparently has bounced back from its tragic warehouse fire of 2005, has a new...
May
17
2007
office games
I finally got to see last week's episode of The Office tonight. Great episode, and, cliché as the "big speech" plot device is, I was so proud of Pam for walking over the coals -- both literally and figuratively. Another...
I finally got to see last week's episode of The Office tonight. Great episode, and, cliché as the "big speech" plot device is, I was so proud of Pam for walking over the coals -- both literally and figuratively. Another...
May
7
2007
i've gotta think i'm saving the day
Verizon Broadband has this new "Be an Action Hero" promotion where users can upload their pictures and insert themselves into a short 3D action movie. It takes a good while to see the completed film (in my case, it was...
Verizon Broadband has this new "Be an Action Hero" promotion where users can upload their pictures and insert themselves into a short 3D action movie. It takes a good while to see the completed film (in my case, it was...
May
4
2007
cannibal sea
(Photo by bluetypewriter.) Back in January, Rob and I saw Camera Obscura and The Essex Green play at the 9:30 Club in D.C. At the time, I saw this awesome t-shirt and waffled about whether or not to get...
(Photo by bluetypewriter.) Back in January, Rob and I saw Camera Obscura and The Essex Green play at the 9:30 Club in D.C. At the time, I saw this awesome t-shirt and waffled about whether or not to get...
May
3
2007
screen on the green 2007
This summer's Screen on the Green schedule is out: Monday, July 16: Annie Hall Monday, July 23: The Thing From Another World Monday, July 30: Wait Until Dark Monday, August 6:: All the King's Men Monday, August 13: Casablanca As...
This summer's Screen on the Green schedule is out: Monday, July 16: Annie Hall Monday, July 23: The Thing From Another World Monday, July 30: Wait Until Dark Monday, August 6:: All the King's Men Monday, August 13: Casablanca As...
Apr
26
2007
i could be brown, i could be blue...
This weekend I came across an intriguing specimen of music: "Grace Kelly," a campy glam rock number by Mika in which he does a dead-on Freddie Mercury impression. (Seriously -- it actually sounds like it could be a Queen song.)...
This weekend I came across an intriguing specimen of music: "Grace Kelly," a campy glam rock number by Mika in which he does a dead-on Freddie Mercury impression. (Seriously -- it actually sounds like it could be a Queen song.)...
Apr
10
2007
let's go sailing
I have two new favorite songs of the week, both by the group Let's Go Sailing and both found via the NPR World Cafe Next podcast. The first song that grabbed me was the sweet, peppy "Icicles" (iTunes). But...
I have two new favorite songs of the week, both by the group Let's Go Sailing and both found via the NPR World Cafe Next podcast. The first song that grabbed me was the sweet, peppy "Icicles" (iTunes). But...
puzzle fighter
At dinner with friends last week, the conversation turned to the video games we played in college (I believe a Street Fighter throwdown was proposed). The conversation reminded me of another game I played in the arcade at ASU: Super...
At dinner with friends last week, the conversation turned to the video games we played in college (I believe a Street Fighter throwdown was proposed). The conversation reminded me of another game I played in the arcade at ASU: Super...
Apr
4
2007
greening
Rob and I watched An Inconvenient Truth tonight. I have some qualms with how the film is structured -- too much focus on Al Gore, and some of the animations and appeals to emotion ring hollow -- but for the...
Rob and I watched An Inconvenient Truth tonight. I have some qualms with how the film is structured -- too much focus on Al Gore, and some of the animations and appeals to emotion ring hollow -- but for the...
Apr
1
2007
april fools
It's always kind of funny to see what various Web sites do to "celebrate" April Fools Day. Google usually does something kind of funny, but I was actually underwhelmed by the two "new products" I came across: Gmail Paper and...
It's always kind of funny to see what various Web sites do to "celebrate" April Fools Day. Google usually does something kind of funny, but I was actually underwhelmed by the two "new products" I came across: Gmail Paper and...
Mar
30
2007
whistling
So I've really come to love the song "Young Folks," by Peter Bjorn and John in the past few weeks, especially after hearing their performance on KCRW's Morning Become Eclectic. But I have to wonder ... As many times as...
So I've really come to love the song "Young Folks," by Peter Bjorn and John in the past few weeks, especially after hearing their performance on KCRW's Morning Become Eclectic. But I have to wonder ... As many times as...
Mar
20
2007
this american life
I'm a big fan of the radio program This American Life, and when I heard it was going to become a television series on Showtime, I was a bit wary. But between the trailer and this four-minute excerpt from the...
I'm a big fan of the radio program This American Life, and when I heard it was going to become a television series on Showtime, I was a bit wary. But between the trailer and this four-minute excerpt from the...
Mar
18
2007
what i'm reading now: 'darkness at noon'
I confess, I bought Arthur Koestler's Darkness at Noon on the basis of its cover, which vaguely reminded me of Soviet propaganda and Saul Bass movie posters. But the book itself, while occasionally a bit stilted, is rather interesting on...
I confess, I bought Arthur Koestler's Darkness at Noon on the basis of its cover, which vaguely reminded me of Soviet propaganda and Saul Bass movie posters. But the book itself, while occasionally a bit stilted, is rather interesting on...
Mar
14
2007
helvetica
As expected, I ended up passing up the Will Wright keynote in favor of font nerdity. And I'm really glad I did, because Helvetica was great. (Even though I do hear that Wright's demo of his upcoming game Spore was...
As expected, I ended up passing up the Will Wright keynote in favor of font nerdity. And I'm really glad I did, because Helvetica was great. (Even though I do hear that Wright's demo of his upcoming game Spore was...
Mar
11
2007
momentary heartbreak
Rob just told me about a crucial time conflict: Will Wright's keynote speech on Tuesday overlaps with the screening of the typeface documentary Helvetica. Wright created all the Sim games (Sim City, Sim Earth, etc.), including my favorite, The Sims....
Rob just told me about a crucial time conflict: Will Wright's keynote speech on Tuesday overlaps with the screening of the typeface documentary Helvetica. Wright created all the Sim games (Sim City, Sim Earth, etc.), including my favorite, The Sims....
Mar
3
2007
song of the moment: diner
After hearing it on an otherwise forgettable episode of Scrubs last night, I can't get "Diner" (iTunes), by Martin Sexton, out of my head. Happy and peppy, it was a perfect song to play over a montage of Scrubs dancing...
After hearing it on an otherwise forgettable episode of Scrubs last night, I can't get "Diner" (iTunes), by Martin Sexton, out of my head. Happy and peppy, it was a perfect song to play over a montage of Scrubs dancing...
Feb
26
2007
on the telly
This afternoon I have tickets to a taping of The Daily Show here in New York. I've been super-psyched for about a month about this, and it's a bit weird that it's finally here. Since they overbook every show to...
This afternoon I have tickets to a taping of The Daily Show here in New York. I've been super-psyched for about a month about this, and it's a bit weird that it's finally here. Since they overbook every show to...
Feb
19
2007
hello goodbye
There's a new Target ad on television these days that near-infuriates me -- to the point where I actually shouted at the TV when I first saw it. (If you can't see the video, it's up on YouTube.) For the...
There's a new Target ad on television these days that near-infuriates me -- to the point where I actually shouted at the TV when I first saw it. (If you can't see the video, it's up on YouTube.) For the...
spot the errors
I'm fortunate to live in a city where so many movies and television series are set. For one thing, it affords me frequent opportunities to play a favorite game: How'd They Get D.C. Wrong? I'm talking about things like Robert...
I'm fortunate to live in a city where so many movies and television series are set. For one thing, it affords me frequent opportunities to play a favorite game: How'd They Get D.C. Wrong? I'm talking about things like Robert...
Feb
8
2007
quote of the day: tivo prayer
Oh, so true: MARSHALL: To make sure it records, maybe we should bow our heads and say a quiet prayer to the TiVo gods. (Ted nods, and the two hold onto either end of the TiVo remote.) TED: Almighty TiVo,...
Oh, so true: MARSHALL: To make sure it records, maybe we should bow our heads and say a quiet prayer to the TiVo gods. (Ted nods, and the two hold onto either end of the TiVo remote.) TED: Almighty TiVo,...
Jan
23
2007
let's get out of this country
Last night, Rob and I went to see Scottish pop band Camera Obscura at the 9:30 Club. I really enjoyed their set, particularly "I Need All the Friends I Can Get," which came together well with the staccato audience...
Last night, Rob and I went to see Scottish pop band Camera Obscura at the 9:30 Club. I really enjoyed their set, particularly "I Need All the Friends I Can Get," which came together well with the staccato audience...
Jan
13
2007
steven in stereo
Damn you, Robert Schneider. In my weekly Ticketmaster concert alert e-mail, I saw a listing for an upcoming performance by Apples in Stereo, Schneider's band, at the Black Cat in D.C. Since then, I've had Schneider's maddening ode to Stephen...
Damn you, Robert Schneider. In my weekly Ticketmaster concert alert e-mail, I saw a listing for an upcoming performance by Apples in Stereo, Schneider's band, at the Black Cat in D.C. Since then, I've had Schneider's maddening ode to Stephen...
Jan
11
2007
parent hacks
The other day, while reading a blog about, I think, personal finance, I came across a badge for a parenting Web site whose text made me giggle: I hack my kids.parenthacks.com So, of course, I had to check it out....
The other day, while reading a blog about, I think, personal finance, I came across a badge for a parenting Web site whose text made me giggle: I hack my kids.parenthacks.com So, of course, I had to check it out....
Jan
7
2007
quote of the day: making light
"I would say laughter is the best medicine. But it's more than that. It's an entire regime of antibiotics and steroids. Laughter brings the swelling down on our national psyche, and then applies an antibiotic cream. You gotta keep it...
"I would say laughter is the best medicine. But it's more than that. It's an entire regime of antibiotics and steroids. Laughter brings the swelling down on our national psyche, and then applies an antibiotic cream. You gotta keep it...
Dec
21
2006
christmas cheer
I think I'm finally starting to get into the "Christmas spirit" thing. It takes me a long time to warm up to it every year -- probably because I usually start off on the wrong foot, cursing the appearance of...
I think I'm finally starting to get into the "Christmas spirit" thing. It takes me a long time to warm up to it every year -- probably because I usually start off on the wrong foot, cursing the appearance of...
Dec
19
2006
person of the year
This weekend, Time magazine announced that its Person of the Year for 2006 was "you." Yes, you, me, we, the masses. To which I respond: "Meh." Sure, we live in an age where user-generated content and social networks and citizen...
This weekend, Time magazine announced that its Person of the Year for 2006 was "you." Yes, you, me, we, the masses. To which I respond: "Meh." Sure, we live in an age where user-generated content and social networks and citizen...
Dec
18
2006
joining the tivo herd
Rob and I got a TiVo last week. I've had a Comcast DVR for the past three years, and while I've certainly made use of it -- it's completely changed the way I watch television -- I've been rather unhappy...
Rob and I got a TiVo last week. I've had a Comcast DVR for the past three years, and while I've certainly made use of it -- it's completely changed the way I watch television -- I've been rather unhappy...
Dec
12
2006
the fantastic peanuts
Continuing the Peanuts theme ... At the messageboard Statue Forum, jdh.goodgrief has posted an extensive series of Peanuts-meets-Marvel Comics illustrations that are just too adorable for words. (Link found via Popwatch.)...
Continuing the Peanuts theme ... At the messageboard Statue Forum, jdh.goodgrief has posted an extensive series of Peanuts-meets-Marvel Comics illustrations that are just too adorable for words. (Link found via Popwatch.)...
Dec
11
2006
a very scrubs christmas
Back in 2003, the cast of Scrubs lent its vocal talent to a new voice track for A Charlie Brown Christmas. It's a little more off-color than a typical episode of Scrubs and not quite as cohesive, but if you're...
Back in 2003, the cast of Scrubs lent its vocal talent to a new voice track for A Charlie Brown Christmas. It's a little more off-color than a typical episode of Scrubs and not quite as cohesive, but if you're...
Dec
7
2006
day of infamy
Today marks the 65th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, which led to the U.S. entering World War II. I came across two Pearl Harbor-related features today which were rather interesting: New York Times: Pearl Harbor Revisited -...
Today marks the 65th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, which led to the U.S. entering World War II. I came across two Pearl Harbor-related features today which were rather interesting: New York Times: Pearl Harbor Revisited -...
Dec
6
2006
scary mary
Someone created a new trailer for Mary Poppins, recasting it as a horror film. Quite well-done -- I particularly love how Julie Andrews's singing takes on such a creepy tone: (If you're reading this via RSS, the video is available...
Someone created a new trailer for Mary Poppins, recasting it as a horror film. Quite well-done -- I particularly love how Julie Andrews's singing takes on such a creepy tone: (If you're reading this via RSS, the video is available...
Dec
4
2006
seen: road trip radio
Spotted in a RollingStone.com biography of Elton John: The Elton Run is a great road-trip game: Using the radio's scan and seek buttons, see how long you can keep a continuous streak of Elton hits rolling. It's been proven possible...
Spotted in a RollingStone.com biography of Elton John: The Elton Run is a great road-trip game: Using the radio's scan and seek buttons, see how long you can keep a continuous streak of Elton hits rolling. It's been proven possible...
Dec
1
2006
colberterists
Oh this is going to be fun! Reports TV Squad: It seems like indie group The Decemberists are looking to get a little green screen action too, through their new contest, Re-animate The Decemberists, in which fans download footage of...
Oh this is going to be fun! Reports TV Squad: It seems like indie group The Decemberists are looking to get a little green screen action too, through their new contest, Re-animate The Decemberists, in which fans download footage of...
here it goes again ... and again
Thanks to its inclusion in last night's season premiere of Scrubs, I have OK Go's infectiously peppy song "Here It Goes Again" stuck in my head ... again. Someone sent me a link to the video back in August, and...
Thanks to its inclusion in last night's season premiere of Scrubs, I have OK Go's infectiously peppy song "Here It Goes Again" stuck in my head ... again. Someone sent me a link to the video back in August, and...
Nov
28
2006
quote of the day: courage
"You have an obligation five nights a week to be serious and funny. I have an obligation five nights a week to be serious and boring. It takes a lot of courage to be boring five nights a week." -...
"You have an obligation five nights a week to be serious and funny. I have an obligation five nights a week to be serious and boring. It takes a lot of courage to be boring five nights a week." -...
Nov
20
2006
dumbfounded, part 2
I'm happy to see that the Fox corporate empire isn't completely soulless: After a firestorm of criticism, News. Corp. said Monday that it has canceled the O.J. Simpson book and TV special "If I Did It." "I and senior management...
I'm happy to see that the Fox corporate empire isn't completely soulless: After a firestorm of criticism, News. Corp. said Monday that it has canceled the O.J. Simpson book and TV special "If I Did It." "I and senior management...
Nov
19
2006
what i'm reading now: interface culture
I've been doing a lot more reading since I started taking the Metro to work every day. In my mind, this can only be a good thing. Right now, I'm reading Interface Culture: How New Technology Transforms the Way We...
I've been doing a lot more reading since I started taking the Metro to work every day. In my mind, this can only be a good thing. Right now, I'm reading Interface Culture: How New Technology Transforms the Way We...
Nov
17
2006
ghost map indeed
I just finished reading The Ghost Map, Steven Johnson's recent book about a 1854 cholera outbreak in London and the research that led to a scientific breakthrough in discovering the origins of the disease (contaminated water) -- as well as...
I just finished reading The Ghost Map, Steven Johnson's recent book about a 1854 cholera outbreak in London and the research that led to a scientific breakthrough in discovering the origins of the disease (contaminated water) -- as well as...
Nov
16
2006
dumbfounded
Tasteless and appalling don't begin to describe this: Fox will slaughter the competition the final week of the November ratings sweeps when it airs a two-hour interview in which O.J. Simpson details how he would have murdered his wife, Nicole,...
Tasteless and appalling don't begin to describe this: Fox will slaughter the competition the final week of the November ratings sweeps when it airs a two-hour interview in which O.J. Simpson details how he would have murdered his wife, Nicole,...
Nov
9
2006
better know a district
The folks behind the Post's "Reliable Source" column point out today that while some politicians have looked really silly during their appearances on The Colbert Report (let's not forget the unopposed congressman who jokingly admitted to enjoying cocaine), it hasn't...
The folks behind the Post's "Reliable Source" column point out today that while some politicians have looked really silly during their appearances on The Colbert Report (let's not forget the unopposed congressman who jokingly admitted to enjoying cocaine), it hasn't...
Nov
6
2006
gotta have you
A couple months ago, I downloaded a few music samplers from the iTunes Music Store via a promotion on Facebook. Most of the songs were less than impressive, but one of the bright gems of the bunch was an endearing...
A couple months ago, I downloaded a few music samplers from the iTunes Music Store via a promotion on Facebook. Most of the songs were less than impressive, but one of the bright gems of the bunch was an endearing...
Nov
2
2006
apples and offices
Newsday had an interesting story yesterday about how the sudden success of The Office last year on iTunes went a long way toward saving the low-rated show from cancellation. (Newsday: "How iTunes Saved 'The Office'" - 11/01/06) "I'm not sure...
Newsday had an interesting story yesterday about how the sudden success of The Office last year on iTunes went a long way toward saving the low-rated show from cancellation. (Newsday: "How iTunes Saved 'The Office'" - 11/01/06) "I'm not sure...
clip show
There was a bit of a to-do earlier this week when Comedy Central asked YouTube to pull thousands of Daily Show and Colbert Report videos from its site. I finally found some clarification today: Comedy Central asked the video sharing...
There was a bit of a to-do earlier this week when Comedy Central asked YouTube to pull thousands of Daily Show and Colbert Report videos from its site. I finally found some clarification today: Comedy Central asked the video sharing...
Oct
30
2006
masked
In need of a last-minute Halloween costume? Forbes.com may have your answer. The business-oriented news site is offering print-and-clip masks featuring cartoons of various celebrities and world figures, from Lindsay Lohan to Hugo Chavez. My personal favorite, no surprise, is...
In need of a last-minute Halloween costume? Forbes.com may have your answer. The business-oriented news site is offering print-and-clip masks featuring cartoons of various celebrities and world figures, from Lindsay Lohan to Hugo Chavez. My personal favorite, no surprise, is...
Oct
27
2006
hodgmania
On Tuesday night, I went to a reading by humorist John Hodgman, perhaps best known these days as the nerdy P.C. guy in the recent Apple commercials. His book of made-up trivia, The Areas of My Expertise, just came out...
On Tuesday night, I went to a reading by humorist John Hodgman, perhaps best known these days as the nerdy P.C. guy in the recent Apple commercials. His book of made-up trivia, The Areas of My Expertise, just came out...
Oct
19
2006
on beauty
I really like this new commercial from Dove for its Dove Self-Esteem Fund. In the ad, an ordinary woman becomes a billboard beauty with the help of lighting, makeup, styling and, finally, Photoshop -- all underscoring the ad campaign's message...
I really like this new commercial from Dove for its Dove Self-Esteem Fund. In the ad, an ordinary woman becomes a billboard beauty with the help of lighting, makeup, styling and, finally, Photoshop -- all underscoring the ad campaign's message...
Sep
21
2006
googled hem
Did the Liberty Mutual ad air during the Grey's Anatomy premiere or something? Because I got about 20 separate visitors to my site within a ten-minute span at about 9:30 this evening, all coming from Google searches like "i am...
Did the Liberty Mutual ad air during the Grey's Anatomy premiere or something? Because I got about 20 separate visitors to my site within a ten-minute span at about 9:30 this evening, all coming from Google searches like "i am...
Sep
13
2006
carrying this scrap of paper
I've been entranced of late with a new television ad for Liberty Mutual. The "plot" has a Pay It Forward quality about it: Person B witnesses Person A doing a good deed, and goes on to do something nice for...
I've been entranced of late with a new television ad for Liberty Mutual. The "plot" has a Pay It Forward quality about it: Person B witnesses Person A doing a good deed, and goes on to do something nice for...
one last look
One last Sept. 11 post and I'm done... The rawness of the video I linked to earlier for whatever reason made me want to seek out the first post-Sept. 11 episode of The Daily Show. There's something heartbreaking about Jon...
One last Sept. 11 post and I'm done... The rawness of the video I linked to earlier for whatever reason made me want to seek out the first post-Sept. 11 episode of The Daily Show. There's something heartbreaking about Jon...
Sep
9
2006
decoding the rambaldi dvd
Out of random interest (and a desire to distract myself from condo anxiety), I've been clicking around the promotional Web site for the Alias complete series DVD set. I like the graphics they're using, though a bit surprised that they're...
Out of random interest (and a desire to distract myself from condo anxiety), I've been clicking around the promotional Web site for the Alias complete series DVD set. I like the graphics they're using, though a bit surprised that they're...
Sep
4
2006
crikey
I'm still having trouble wrapping my head around this one: Steve Irwin, the "Crocodile Hunter," died this weekend after a stingray attacked him while he was shooting a program near the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. The man put himself...
I'm still having trouble wrapping my head around this one: Steve Irwin, the "Crocodile Hunter," died this weekend after a stingray attacked him while he was shooting a program near the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. The man put himself...
Aug
30
2006
it is a silly place
Someone's gone to the trouble of recreating the Camelot "Knights of the Round Table" musical number from Monty Python and the Holy Grail using Legos. And it is good. (If you're reading this via an RSS reader, you may not...
Someone's gone to the trouble of recreating the Camelot "Knights of the Round Table" musical number from Monty Python and the Holy Grail using Legos. And it is good. (If you're reading this via an RSS reader, you may not...
Aug
27
2006
tuning out the road
I spotted something in this weekend's Target advertising circular that made me start feeling downright curmodgeonly: a sale on a car DVD player that includes two screens and can play two movies at the same time. Talk about spoiled kids....
I spotted something in this weekend's Target advertising circular that made me start feeling downright curmodgeonly: a sale on a car DVD player that includes two screens and can play two movies at the same time. Talk about spoiled kids....
Aug
26
2006
hey ya
Mocking Music points out a surprisingly good acoustic cover of the OutKast hit "Hey Ya!" by Mat Weddle (of the band Obadiah Smith). There's a YouTube video of Weddle performing the song, as well as an MP3 download of the...
Mocking Music points out a surprisingly good acoustic cover of the OutKast hit "Hey Ya!" by Mat Weddle (of the band Obadiah Smith). There's a YouTube video of Weddle performing the song, as well as an MP3 download of the...
Aug
25
2006
a day in the life
This week's New Yorker magazine has an interesting look into an average day at a Netflix processing facility in Rockville, Md., following workers as they sort through movie returns and process new movie shipments. A surprising amount is done by...
This week's New Yorker magazine has an interesting look into an average day at a Netflix processing facility in Rockville, Md., following workers as they sort through movie returns and process new movie shipments. A surprising amount is done by...
Aug
17
2006
rate of return
If you want fast turnaround from Netflix, don't drop your movie in the mailbox after Thursday afternoon, or you probably won't get your next movie until the following Tuesday. AJC, a Netflix user on LiveJournal, recently compiled the results of...
If you want fast turnaround from Netflix, don't drop your movie in the mailbox after Thursday afternoon, or you probably won't get your next movie until the following Tuesday. AJC, a Netflix user on LiveJournal, recently compiled the results of...
Aug
16
2006
office pal
A few months ago, I stumbled across the MySpace profile of Jenna Fischer, who plays Pam in NBC's The Office. Instead of being a vacuous promotional piece, Jenna's MySpace blog is a surprisingly engaging look at the life of a...
A few months ago, I stumbled across the MySpace profile of Jenna Fischer, who plays Pam in NBC's The Office. Instead of being a vacuous promotional piece, Jenna's MySpace blog is a surprisingly engaging look at the life of a...
Aug
15
2006
a story in search terms
Much has been made recently of AOL's inadvertent public release of its logs of user search terms. Doug took a look at the data and came up with some fairly sad, PostSecret-like narratives, told through individual users' interactions with the...
Much has been made recently of AOL's inadvertent public release of its logs of user search terms. Doug took a look at the data and came up with some fairly sad, PostSecret-like narratives, told through individual users' interactions with the...
Aug
14
2006
dancing fool
I was all set to swear off ABC's fall season of Dancing with the Stars ... until I read that Tucker Carlson, the pundit I love to hate, is slated to be one of the contestants. I'm going to be...
I was all set to swear off ABC's fall season of Dancing with the Stars ... until I read that Tucker Carlson, the pundit I love to hate, is slated to be one of the contestants. I'm going to be...
Aug
11
2006
a matter of timing
It's funny how a single event can change how a given thing is perceived. Take, for instance, today's London terror arrests and the travel restrictions that have been imposed as a result. Before all the excitement, that Sierra Mist soda...
It's funny how a single event can change how a given thing is perceived. Take, for instance, today's London terror arrests and the travel restrictions that have been imposed as a result. Before all the excitement, that Sierra Mist soda...
quote of the day: itty bitty nixons
Stephen Colbert made a surprise appearance on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart tonight, where the two argued about Geraldo Rivera's recent criticism of their programs. What are you implying, Jon? That O'Reilly and Geraldo are narcissists enthralled of their...
Stephen Colbert made a surprise appearance on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart tonight, where the two argued about Geraldo Rivera's recent criticism of their programs. What are you implying, Jon? That O'Reilly and Geraldo are narcissists enthralled of their...
Jul
25
2006
mideast mad libs
I meant to post this last week but didn't get around to it: In its July 17 broadcast, The Daily Show offered a take on Middle East reporting that was sort of funny, in a tragic kind of way... Samantha...
I meant to post this last week but didn't get around to it: In its July 17 broadcast, The Daily Show offered a take on Middle East reporting that was sort of funny, in a tragic kind of way... Samantha...
Jul
21
2006
colbert on the brain
Today I've been plowing through a series of congressional district maps for our Campaign 2006 coverage. In a sure sign that I watch too much of The Colbert Report, every time I start a new map, I imagine Stephen Colbert...
Today I've been plowing through a series of congressional district maps for our Campaign 2006 coverage. In a sure sign that I watch too much of The Colbert Report, every time I start a new map, I imagine Stephen Colbert...
Jul
18
2006
dating myself
The Internet offers so many great ways to procrastinate. I plugged my birthdate into Boy the Bear's Age Gauge and got a list of the following age-related factoids: You are 26 years old and about: 62 years 9 months younger...
The Internet offers so many great ways to procrastinate. I plugged my birthdate into Boy the Bear's Age Gauge and got a list of the following age-related factoids: You are 26 years old and about: 62 years 9 months younger...
Jul
12
2006
on the bus, on the trail
I just finished reading The Boys on the Bus, Timothy Crouse's book about the journalists that covered the 1972 presidential election. I bought the book a few years ago, on the recommendation of a journalism professor in college. It was...
I just finished reading The Boys on the Bus, Timothy Crouse's book about the journalists that covered the 1972 presidential election. I bought the book a few years ago, on the recommendation of a journalism professor in college. It was...
Jul
9
2006
songs of the moment: commercial edition
I've been watching more live TV than usual lately, thanks to the World Cup and the new season of The Venture Brothers, which also means I've been sitting through more commercials. Two recent commercials in particular, with their catchy songs,...
I've been watching more live TV than usual lately, thanks to the World Cup and the new season of The Venture Brothers, which also means I've been sitting through more commercials. Two recent commercials in particular, with their catchy songs,...
photo of the day: army of spider-men
This photo was taken this past March at South by Southwest Interactive, and it's been -- by far -- the most popular photo I've ever posted to Flickr. At the conference, a group had set up an "Interactive Playpen"...
This photo was taken this past March at South by Southwest Interactive, and it's been -- by far -- the most popular photo I've ever posted to Flickr. At the conference, a group had set up an "Interactive Playpen"...
Jul
3
2006
driving sideways
Rob and I saw Aimee Mann play at the Birchmere last night, the second night of a two-night run at the Alexandria concert venue. The show was pretty good -- I particularly liked the new arrangement for "One" and the...
Rob and I saw Aimee Mann play at the Birchmere last night, the second night of a two-night run at the Alexandria concert venue. The show was pretty good -- I particularly liked the new arrangement for "One" and the...
Jun
29
2006
song of the day: everybody's free
Before Sunday's premiere of the second season of The Venture Brothers on Adult Swim, one of the "bumps" informed the audience that getting the rights to a particular song represented a significant portion of the entire episode's budget. But it...
Before Sunday's premiere of the second season of The Venture Brothers on Adult Swim, one of the "bumps" informed the audience that getting the rights to a particular song represented a significant portion of the entire episode's budget. But it...
meta draft
Rob and I watched a little bit of the NBA Draft on ESPN last night, and it was a bit surreal. The Draft was taking place at Madison Square Garden in New York, with a lot of players and fans...
Rob and I watched a little bit of the NBA Draft on ESPN last night, and it was a bit surreal. The Draft was taking place at Madison Square Garden in New York, with a lot of players and fans...
Jun
28
2006
roadshow
I heard recently that Netflix is sponsoring what sounds like a fun cross-country roadshow, screening movies at the places where they were originally filmed. If my birthday was on a weekend this year, I'd be all about seeing that Clerks...
I heard recently that Netflix is sponsoring what sounds like a fun cross-country roadshow, screening movies at the places where they were originally filmed. If my birthday was on a weekend this year, I'd be all about seeing that Clerks...
Jun
23
2006
'free' makeover
I've always wondered what really goes on behind the scenes of those HGTV and TLC home makeover shows. A story in yesterday's Washington Post offered an interesting glimpse into that world, as a local reporter had her living room made...
I've always wondered what really goes on behind the scenes of those HGTV and TLC home makeover shows. A story in yesterday's Washington Post offered an interesting glimpse into that world, as a local reporter had her living room made...
Jun
21
2006
the tribe has spoken
My friend Chris just published his first book! Tribal Warfare: 'Survivor' and the Political Unconscious of Reality Television is an examination of the popular reality television series through the lens of class politics. Tribal Warfare thoroughly investigates a central element...
My friend Chris just published his first book! Tribal Warfare: 'Survivor' and the Political Unconscious of Reality Television is an examination of the popular reality television series through the lens of class politics. Tribal Warfare thoroughly investigates a central element...
Jun
18
2006
father's tunes
For Mother's Day 2005, my siblings and I gave our mom an iPod Mini pre-loaded with special playlists from each of us. Since my dad got an iPod of his own not too long afterward, I can't exactly duplicate the...
For Mother's Day 2005, my siblings and I gave our mom an iPod Mini pre-loaded with special playlists from each of us. Since my dad got an iPod of his own not too long afterward, I can't exactly duplicate the...
Jun
11
2006
saturday at home
Yesterday, I did something I haven't done in a long time: I poured a glass of fresh iced tea and settled into a comfy chair for an afternoon of reading. That's it. No errands, no freelance work, no mindless Internet...
Yesterday, I did something I haven't done in a long time: I poured a glass of fresh iced tea and settled into a comfy chair for an afternoon of reading. That's it. No errands, no freelance work, no mindless Internet...
Jun
1
2006
i'm looking through you
So I discovered The Beatles' Rubber Soul yesterday. I don't know what rock I've been living under that I hadn't heard the album before. It's fantastic, and quite possibly my new favorite Beatles album. This all came about when, catching...
So I discovered The Beatles' Rubber Soul yesterday. I don't know what rock I've been living under that I hadn't heard the album before. It's fantastic, and quite possibly my new favorite Beatles album. This all came about when, catching...
May
27
2006
wigged out
In the wake of last week's season finale of Alias, ABC is hosting an eBay auction of Alias costumes and props for charity, ending May 31. Some of the auction items -- the Rambaldi artifacts especially -- are going for...
In the wake of last week's season finale of Alias, ABC is hosting an eBay auction of Alias costumes and props for charity, ending May 31. Some of the auction items -- the Rambaldi artifacts especially -- are going for...
May
25
2006
all the time in the world
So the Alias finale has come and gone. (It aired Monday night, though I'm only now getting around to posting about it.) It wasn't perfect, but it was a fitting ending to the show. I teared up after the final...
So the Alias finale has come and gone. (It aired Monday night, though I'm only now getting around to posting about it.) It wasn't perfect, but it was a fitting ending to the show. I teared up after the final...
May
24
2006
calling all 'buffy' fans...
Looks like the Slayer may be coming back -- in comic book form. Buffy the Vampire Slayer creator Joss Whedon is writing a new six-issue Buffy mini-series for Dark Horse Comics. The first volume is due out in October. A...
Looks like the Slayer may be coming back -- in comic book form. Buffy the Vampire Slayer creator Joss Whedon is writing a new six-issue Buffy mini-series for Dark Horse Comics. The first volume is due out in October. A...
May
19
2006
welcome to pharaoh high
Have you ever wondered what The Ten Commandments would have been like if it was set in an American high school? Wonder no longer: Someone has put together a faux trailer for the Charlton Heston classic, refashioning it as the...
Have you ever wondered what The Ten Commandments would have been like if it was set in an American high school? Wonder no longer: Someone has put together a faux trailer for the Charlton Heston classic, refashioning it as the...
May
17
2006
studio 60
I think I've found a new show to add to the DVR next season: Aaron Sorkin's "behind the scenes of an SNL-like show" Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. NBC aired a 30-second preview during this weekend's West Wing finale,...
I think I've found a new show to add to the DVR next season: Aaron Sorkin's "behind the scenes of an SNL-like show" Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. NBC aired a 30-second preview during this weekend's West Wing finale,...
May
14
2006
virtual dollhouse
The New York Times ran an interesting story last week about how some children have begun to eschew real dolls (i.e. Barbie and the like) for the more interactive virtual "dolls" offered by games like The Sims. Francesca and Richard...
The New York Times ran an interesting story last week about how some children have begun to eschew real dolls (i.e. Barbie and the like) for the more interactive virtual "dolls" offered by games like The Sims. Francesca and Richard...
May
11
2006
the office
Oh, how you tease me so. Tonight's season finale was so good. FINALLY some real movement on the Jim/Pam front -- Rob and Dari actually put their arms up, field-goal style, at the two critical moments -- yet the show...
Oh, how you tease me so. Tonight's season finale was so good. FINALLY some real movement on the Jim/Pam front -- Rob and Dari actually put their arms up, field-goal style, at the two critical moments -- yet the show...
Apr
11
2006
rest in peace, leo
Sunday's episode of The West Wing was so painful to watch. After the sad death of John Spencer in December, I've been dreading this episode. In an eerie parallel of art and life, Spencer died of a heart attack --...
Sunday's episode of The West Wing was so painful to watch. After the sad death of John Spencer in December, I've been dreading this episode. In an eerie parallel of art and life, Spencer died of a heart attack --...
Apr
9
2006
weekly roundup
Random things that have caught my eye in the past week, but which didn't get their own blog entries: Before documentary filmmaker Robert Greenwald appeared on The Colbert Report on March 30, he asked his blog readers for advice on...
Random things that have caught my eye in the past week, but which didn't get their own blog entries: Before documentary filmmaker Robert Greenwald appeared on The Colbert Report on March 30, he asked his blog readers for advice on...
Apr
3
2006
random things that bring me joy
In no particular order... Animated favorites due on DVD this year: The Venture Bros.: Season One (coming out May 30, according to Amazon.com), Animaniacs: Volume One and Pinky and the Brain (July 25) and maybe even (SPOON!) The Tick. 16...
In no particular order... Animated favorites due on DVD this year: The Venture Bros.: Season One (coming out May 30, according to Amazon.com), Animaniacs: Volume One and Pinky and the Brain (July 25) and maybe even (SPOON!) The Tick. 16...
the more you know
Despite my initial misgivings, I've become a full-fledged addict of the NBC version of The Office. Since about halfway through its short first season, the show has really come into its own, and every episode seems to top the one...
Despite my initial misgivings, I've become a full-fledged addict of the NBC version of The Office. Since about halfway through its short first season, the show has really come into its own, and every episode seems to top the one...
Mar
23
2006
quote of the day: truth
"Bring the truth ... or whatever you've got." - Stephen Colbert to Dan Senor, on The Colbert Report (Mar. 23, 2006)...
"Bring the truth ... or whatever you've got." - Stephen Colbert to Dan Senor, on The Colbert Report (Mar. 23, 2006)...
Mar
22
2006
digital stories
In my final semester of grad school, I chose not to do a master's thesis and instead took two additional courses (and all the research papers that come with them). One of those classes was American Popular Culture, where the...
In my final semester of grad school, I chose not to do a master's thesis and instead took two additional courses (and all the research papers that come with them). One of those classes was American Popular Culture, where the...
Mar
19
2006
the trees and the wild
I'm so glad I didn't skip tonight's Matt Pond PA concert at the 9:30 Club. I'm a big fan of the band's recent album, and I ordered tickets to their DC show over a month ago. But when it turned...
I'm so glad I didn't skip tonight's Matt Pond PA concert at the 9:30 Club. I'm a big fan of the band's recent album, and I ordered tickets to their DC show over a month ago. But when it turned...
Mar
8
2006
chatsecret
PSA: washingtonpost.com is having a live discussion today at 3:30 p.m. ET with Frank Warren from PostSecret, the confessional postcard blog. I'm a regular reader of the blog (new postcards are posted every Sunday, and Warren posts reader e-mails throughout...
PSA: washingtonpost.com is having a live discussion today at 3:30 p.m. ET with Frank Warren from PostSecret, the confessional postcard blog. I'm a regular reader of the blog (new postcards are posted every Sunday, and Warren posts reader e-mails throughout...
Mar
5
2006
how to watch an awards show
It's all about digital cable. At the beginning of the program, tune to the right channel and press "pause" on your remote. Step away from the television. Go make a cup of tea, play a computer game, call your mother,...
It's all about digital cable. At the beginning of the program, tune to the right channel and press "pause" on your remote. Step away from the television. Go make a cup of tea, play a computer game, call your mother,...
Feb
27
2006
wandering the stacks
Since I'm in Seattle, there was one place that I absolutely had to go during my visit: Elliott Bay Book Company. Melanie introduced me to it on our last trip to Seattle, and it became an instant favorite. It's such...
Since I'm in Seattle, there was one place that I absolutely had to go during my visit: Elliott Bay Book Company. Melanie introduced me to it on our last trip to Seattle, and it became an instant favorite. It's such...
Feb
22
2006
life imitates art
A new contest announced in this week's iTunes Music Store "New Music Tuesday" e-mail sounds like a certain Saturday Night Live sketch come to life: Win A Private Showby Prince at His Home Universal/Motown has the ultimate prize for the...
A new contest announced in this week's iTunes Music Store "New Music Tuesday" e-mail sounds like a certain Saturday Night Live sketch come to life: Win A Private Showby Prince at His Home Universal/Motown has the ultimate prize for the...
Feb
20
2006
unfair use
Interesting ... and a bit distressing: This week, Ars.Technica pointed out some language in recent legal filings by the RIAA that suggest that the group is introducing a new argument in its war against music piracy: Ripping MP3s from albums...
Interesting ... and a bit distressing: This week, Ars.Technica pointed out some language in recent legal filings by the RIAA that suggest that the group is introducing a new argument in its war against music piracy: Ripping MP3s from albums...
Feb
18
2006
heartbeats
Doug just linked to a new ad from Sony-Europe for their BRAVIA television. I don't really know what the bouncy balls have to do with a Sony television, but it's a beautiful, hypnotic ad. I had a bit of deja...
Doug just linked to a new ad from Sony-Europe for their BRAVIA television. I don't really know what the bouncy balls have to do with a Sony television, but it's a beautiful, hypnotic ad. I had a bit of deja...
Feb
17
2006
lazy no more
I guess it was only a matter of time before the lawyers came after YouTube. A hip-hopping "Saturday Night Live" skit that sparked a Web craze has been removed from a popular free video-sharing site at the request of NBC,...
I guess it was only a matter of time before the lawyers came after YouTube. A hip-hopping "Saturday Night Live" skit that sparked a Web craze has been removed from a popular free video-sharing site at the request of NBC,...
Feb
15
2006
movie love
Washington Post Style columnist Hank Stuever (or, at least, the women he interviews) gets it right about movie love in his Valentine's Day column about Lloyd Dobler, the memorable hero of Say Anything played by John Cusack. ("What I Did...
Washington Post Style columnist Hank Stuever (or, at least, the women he interviews) gets it right about movie love in his Valentine's Day column about Lloyd Dobler, the memorable hero of Say Anything played by John Cusack. ("What I Did...
Feb
14
2006
too slow
Looks like my Internet search prowess is too speedy for ticketmaster.ca. While looking for concert listings in Vancouver in early May (woo! honeymoon!), I got the following error message: Please note. We limit the rate of web page requests that...
Looks like my Internet search prowess is too speedy for ticketmaster.ca. While looking for concert listings in Vancouver in early May (woo! honeymoon!), I got the following error message: Please note. We limit the rate of web page requests that...
Feb
13
2006
rules of engagement
As my Flickr obsession has deepened over the past year, I've learned a few tricks to help boost my photos' exposure within the Flickr community. That's not to say that I've established any kind of massive following on the photo...
As my Flickr obsession has deepened over the past year, I've learned a few tricks to help boost my photos' exposure within the Flickr community. That's not to say that I've established any kind of massive following on the photo...
Feb
10
2006
reunited
This whole fake Barbie/Ken "soap opera" just makes me angry and annoyed. First she dumps him for a surferboy, now she's intrigued by his new makeover. Bleh. After Mattel made headlines on Valentine's Day 2004 by announcing the breakup of...
This whole fake Barbie/Ken "soap opera" just makes me angry and annoyed. First she dumps him for a surferboy, now she's intrigued by his new makeover. Bleh. After Mattel made headlines on Valentine's Day 2004 by announcing the breakup of...
Feb
9
2006
all colbert, all the time
The "truthiness teller" is popping up all over the place these days. Stephen Colbert, host of Daily Show spin-off The Colbert Report, has been getting a ton of press lately, including a profile featured on the cover of this week's...
The "truthiness teller" is popping up all over the place these days. Stephen Colbert, host of Daily Show spin-off The Colbert Report, has been getting a ton of press lately, including a profile featured on the cover of this week's...
Feb
7
2006
tech support to the stars
Who does Bono call when he needs to hook up his XBox? The Geek Squad, apparently. The Wall Street Journal reported last week about entertainers who have added tech experts to their entourages for tech support with a personal touch....
Who does Bono call when he needs to hook up his XBox? The Geek Squad, apparently. The Wall Street Journal reported last week about entertainers who have added tech experts to their entourages for tech support with a personal touch....
Feb
5
2006
super bowl sundae
Forget the game: For me, Super Bowl Sunday is all about the new commercials. Sadly, I wasn't very impressed by the majority of the ads. (Disclaimer: I started watching at about 6:30 p.m., so I missed all the pre-game stuff.)...
Forget the game: For me, Super Bowl Sunday is all about the new commercials. Sadly, I wasn't very impressed by the majority of the ads. (Disclaimer: I started watching at about 6:30 p.m., so I missed all the pre-game stuff.)...
saturday night blah
Anyone catch SNL last night? I forgot it was a new episode until just before "Weekend Update," and my DVR didn't record it for some reason. What I did see was pretty lame, with one exception: I've never really followed...
Anyone catch SNL last night? I forgot it was a new episode until just before "Weekend Update," and my DVR didn't record it for some reason. What I did see was pretty lame, with one exception: I've never really followed...
Jan
27
2006
personal jesus
This is so, incredibly weird that, two hours later, I'm still not entirely sure how to react to it. I'm vaguely intrigued, vaguely repulsed, vaguely befuddled by this story in The Guardian: The BBC plans to mark the crucifixion and...
This is so, incredibly weird that, two hours later, I'm still not entirely sure how to react to it. I'm vaguely intrigued, vaguely repulsed, vaguely befuddled by this story in The Guardian: The BBC plans to mark the crucifixion and...
Jan
23
2006
songs of the moment: procrastination edition
I have 13 things left on my to-do list for today, yet blogging seems much more attractive than any of them... Songs of the Moment Links go to the iTunes Music Store "Breathe Me" by Sia - I first heard...
I have 13 things left on my to-do list for today, yet blogging seems much more attractive than any of them... Songs of the Moment Links go to the iTunes Music Store "Breathe Me" by Sia - I first heard...
jacktracker
This is a level of television nerdity and Web geekery that I could only hope to aspire to: the Jacktracker, a Google Maps-meets-Flickr interactive map that follows the episode-by-episode adventures of 24's Jack Bauer. Every season, I keep meaning to...
This is a level of television nerdity and Web geekery that I could only hope to aspire to: the Jacktracker, a Google Maps-meets-Flickr interactive map that follows the episode-by-episode adventures of 24's Jack Bauer. Every season, I keep meaning to...
Jan
20
2006
cryfest
Sometimes I just ::heart:: DCist. This description of an event tonight at the Black Cat cracked me up: Dear organizers of tonight's Cryfest -- Cure vs. Smiths Dance Party on the Black Cat mainstage: Did we go to the same...
Sometimes I just ::heart:: DCist. This description of an event tonight at the Black Cat cracked me up: Dear organizers of tonight's Cryfest -- Cure vs. Smiths Dance Party on the Black Cat mainstage: Did we go to the same...
Jan
19
2006
evening activities
Getting the wedding invitations printed yesterday went surprisingly well, so, instead of spending my evening cutting up invites, I ventured over to the Olsson's bookstore down the street for a reading/booksigning by humorist Dave Barry. I came in a few...
Getting the wedding invitations printed yesterday went surprisingly well, so, instead of spending my evening cutting up invites, I ventured over to the Olsson's bookstore down the street for a reading/booksigning by humorist Dave Barry. I came in a few...
going down to south park
If I was a South Park character, I'd probably look something like this... The South Park Studio is a fun little Flash app that lets you create -- with a surprisingly impressive array of options -- your very own South...
If I was a South Park character, I'd probably look something like this... The South Park Studio is a fun little Flash app that lets you create -- with a surprisingly impressive array of options -- your very own South...
Jan
14
2006
historical note
This week's Economist includes an interesting report about a world map purportedly drawn by Chinese mariners in the early fifteenth century, predating Christopher Columbus by several decades. ("China beat Columbus to it, perhaps" - 01/12/06) It seems more likely that...
This week's Economist includes an interesting report about a world map purportedly drawn by Chinese mariners in the early fifteenth century, predating Christopher Columbus by several decades. ("China beat Columbus to it, perhaps" - 01/12/06) It seems more likely that...
Jan
11
2006
judge a book by its cover
Covers is a cool weblog/gallery featuring well-designed covers for current popular books. It's a nice collection of interesting book covers, and the subtle mouseover effect on the thumbnails is rather nifty. It's interesting to read the comments -- like this...
Covers is a cool weblog/gallery featuring well-designed covers for current popular books. It's a nice collection of interesting book covers, and the subtle mouseover effect on the thumbnails is rather nifty. It's interesting to read the comments -- like this...
kawaii science
The New York Times ran an interesting story last week about the science of "cuteness" -- that ineffable quality that makes people "awww" and coo and generally melt in the presence of it. ("The Cute Factor" - 01/03/06) Cute cues...
The New York Times ran an interesting story last week about the science of "cuteness" -- that ineffable quality that makes people "awww" and coo and generally melt in the presence of it. ("The Cute Factor" - 01/03/06) Cute cues...
blood sugar
The New York Times' story about diabetes from Monday is beyond sobering, bordering on sickening. ("Diabetes and Its Awful Toll Quietly Emerge as a Crisis" - 01/09/05) One in three children born in the United States five years ago are...
The New York Times' story about diabetes from Monday is beyond sobering, bordering on sickening. ("Diabetes and Its Awful Toll Quietly Emerge as a Crisis" - 01/09/05) One in three children born in the United States five years ago are...
Jan
8
2006
hat sense
Much was made earlier this week of a now-classic photo of lobbyist Jack Abramoff emerging from a federal court in Washington, D.C., after pleading guilty to various charges of fraud, conspiracy and tax evasion. In his dark trenchcoat and black...
Much was made earlier this week of a now-classic photo of lobbyist Jack Abramoff emerging from a federal court in Washington, D.C., after pleading guilty to various charges of fraud, conspiracy and tax evasion. In his dark trenchcoat and black...
audiobook download
I discovered this afternoon that the Arlington County Public Library offers a number of downloadable audiobooks for library members. The majority of the titles available are older works, but the catalog includes a good number of books I keep meaning...
I discovered this afternoon that the Arlington County Public Library offers a number of downloadable audiobooks for library members. The majority of the titles available are older works, but the catalog includes a good number of books I keep meaning...
Jan
7
2006
moviefone im
AOL introduced a Moviefone bot for its AOL Instant Messenger service in the latter half of last year. I don't know how heavily used it will be, but it's an interesting, right-to-the-point way of searching for movie times. Users can...
AOL introduced a Moviefone bot for its AOL Instant Messenger service in the latter half of last year. I don't know how heavily used it will be, but it's an interesting, right-to-the-point way of searching for movie times. Users can...
Jan
4
2006
on the teevee
A project I worked on was made fun of on television tonight ... and it totally made my week. Normally, I might take some offense to my work being mocked, but in this case, the television program in question was...
A project I worked on was made fun of on television tonight ... and it totally made my week. Normally, I might take some offense to my work being mocked, but in this case, the television program in question was...
radio kerfluffle
Z104 is no more. The station, which was number one in my car radio presets, went off the air at noon today, leaving DC 101, Mix 107.3 and 94.7-The Arrow as the only pop/rock stations in town that occasionally play...
Z104 is no more. The station, which was number one in my car radio presets, went off the air at noon today, leaving DC 101, Mix 107.3 and 94.7-The Arrow as the only pop/rock stations in town that occasionally play...
Dec
30
2005
clap your hands say new order
A couple months ago, after hearing all the positive reviews, I tried to get on the Clap Your Hands Say Yeah train, but after a pass through their album, I decided it wasn't my cup of tea. It's appeared on...
A couple months ago, after hearing all the positive reviews, I tried to get on the Clap Your Hands Say Yeah train, but after a pass through their album, I decided it wasn't my cup of tea. It's appeared on...
Dec
22
2005
the horizon
It's been over a week, but I still can't get over how truly awesome last week's episode of Alias was. (Obsessive geek that I am, I watched it for probably the fourth time tonight.) Of course, it certainly helps that...
It's been over a week, but I still can't get over how truly awesome last week's episode of Alias was. (Obsessive geek that I am, I watched it for probably the fourth time tonight.) Of course, it certainly helps that...
Dec
21
2005
pardon our dust
This has been floating around for a little while now, but I'm posting it anyway because it's caused me no end of amusement this week... The Gap hired director Spike Jonze to produce a TV spot to promote the company's...
This has been floating around for a little while now, but I'm posting it anyway because it's caused me no end of amusement this week... The Gap hired director Spike Jonze to produce a TV spot to promote the company's...
Dec
19
2005
yuletide
Random holiday-related tidbits... You know those mailings from charities that you get with the address labels pre-printed with your information on them, along with a solicitation for your information? Not a particularly efficient way of raising money, reports the St....
Random holiday-related tidbits... You know those mailings from charities that you get with the address labels pre-printed with your information on them, along with a solicitation for your information? Not a particularly efficient way of raising money, reports the St....
Dec
17
2005
i know your secret
After a busybusybusy couple of weeks, Rob and I decided to have a "date night" tonight, starting with dinner at Georgetown's Pizzeria Pardiso. Afterward, we walked across the street to the former Staples that's been converted into an art space,...
After a busybusybusy couple of weeks, Rob and I decided to have a "date night" tonight, starting with dinner at Georgetown's Pizzeria Pardiso. Afterward, we walked across the street to the former Staples that's been converted into an art space,...
Dec
16
2005
zeitgeist
Just as it's interesting to see what kind of traffic search engines direct my way, it's also fascinating to see what people are searching for in general. With the end of the year approaching, Yahoo! has posted a list of...
Just as it's interesting to see what kind of traffic search engines direct my way, it's also fascinating to see what people are searching for in general. With the end of the year approaching, Yahoo! has posted a list of...
Dec
13
2005
too addicted
From the makers of addictive typing game Letters2 comes Words, which is just like Letters except you're typing words rather than individual letters. I actually like it better, because with Letters I kept trying to find some kind of order...
From the makers of addictive typing game Letters2 comes Words, which is just like Letters except you're typing words rather than individual letters. I actually like it better, because with Letters I kept trying to find some kind of order...
Dec
11
2005
gratuity
I generally see some kind of story or sidebar about proper holiday tipping around this time of year, and this year was no exception, with this weekend's Sunday Source featuring a long explainer about how much to tip the various...
I generally see some kind of story or sidebar about proper holiday tipping around this time of year, and this year was no exception, with this weekend's Sunday Source featuring a long explainer about how much to tip the various...
ideas issue
Fascinating stuff in this week's New York Times Magazine, their annual "Year in Ideas" issue: Musings on a collective way to mediate cellphone interruptions, and how best to signal an interruption. ("Consensual Iterruptions" - 12/11/05) Having solved the problem of...
Fascinating stuff in this week's New York Times Magazine, their annual "Year in Ideas" issue: Musings on a collective way to mediate cellphone interruptions, and how best to signal an interruption. ("Consensual Iterruptions" - 12/11/05) Having solved the problem of...
Dec
10
2005
song of the moment
I've had New Order's "Age of Consent" (iTMS) stuck in my head since last night, when I ran across a trailer for Marie Antoinette, directed by Sofia Coppola. The trailer, which has no dialogue, consists of clips from the movie...
I've had New Order's "Age of Consent" (iTMS) stuck in my head since last night, when I ran across a trailer for Marie Antoinette, directed by Sofia Coppola. The trailer, which has no dialogue, consists of clips from the movie...
Dec
9
2005
delicious yahoo
Yahoo! has been on quite the buying streak lately. del.icio.us, my favorite online bookmark service, announced today that they had been acquired by Yahoo!. It's a great move for Yahoo!, and it makes perfect sense, given the company's focus on...
Yahoo! has been on quite the buying streak lately. del.icio.us, my favorite online bookmark service, announced today that they had been acquired by Yahoo!. It's a great move for Yahoo!, and it makes perfect sense, given the company's focus on...
seen: the pretty
I'm catching up on Season 4 of Alias via Netflix. (Long story short: by the time Season 4 started, I was still getting up to speed on seasons 1-3 on DVD, so I only came in on S4 midway through.)...
I'm catching up on Season 4 of Alias via Netflix. (Long story short: by the time Season 4 started, I was still getting up to speed on seasons 1-3 on DVD, so I only came in on S4 midway through.)...
pieces of flair
The Washington Post had an interesting feature yesterday about the evolving decor of T.G.I. Friday's and Ruby Tuesday and the networks of people who supply the kitch that adorns the restaurants' walls. Since the dawn of the shopping-mall era, people...
The Washington Post had an interesting feature yesterday about the evolving decor of T.G.I. Friday's and Ruby Tuesday and the networks of people who supply the kitch that adorns the restaurants' walls. Since the dawn of the shopping-mall era, people...
seen: all i want for christmas
Spotted at TVSquad: All Bob wants for Festivus ... A great ending for Alias. And by "great ending" I mean Michael Vartan returns, Vaughn isn't dead, Will comes back, and the current storyline is wrapped up. Amen....
Spotted at TVSquad: All Bob wants for Festivus ... A great ending for Alias. And by "great ending" I mean Michael Vartan returns, Vaughn isn't dead, Will comes back, and the current storyline is wrapped up. Amen....
Dec
1
2005
unhappy feet
A women's health column at Newsweek.com today explains, in plenty detail, all the damage high-heeled shoes do to women's feet. Ow.
A women's health column at Newsweek.com today explains, in plenty detail, all the damage high-heeled shoes do to women's feet. Ow.
Nov
23
2005
cambodian profiles
We just launched a new multimedia feature at work today called "Cambodian Profiles," a student-produced documentary video project looking at the lives of Cambodians in Stockton, Calif., and Phnom Penh. The project is part of a program called "Digital TV...
We just launched a new multimedia feature at work today called "Cambodian Profiles," a student-produced documentary video project looking at the lives of Cambodians in Stockton, Calif., and Phnom Penh. The project is part of a program called "Digital TV...
Nov
22
2005
rhetorical strategies
The Post's Howard Kurtz explains the rhetorical flourishes politicos use to smear each other and renounce the blame for said smearing: It is an age-old device in politics, making a personal slam sound more high-minded by attributing it to someone...
The Post's Howard Kurtz explains the rhetorical flourishes politicos use to smear each other and renounce the blame for said smearing: It is an age-old device in politics, making a personal slam sound more high-minded by attributing it to someone...
media consumption
Music Fate Is the Hunter by Kate Earl - I first heard Kate Earl's music last week on a back-episode of the KCRW Morning Becomes Eclectic podcast. I liked what I heard, so a week or two ago I bought...
Music Fate Is the Hunter by Kate Earl - I first heard Kate Earl's music last week on a back-episode of the KCRW Morning Becomes Eclectic podcast. I liked what I heard, so a week or two ago I bought...
Nov
19
2005
interviewee
I had an interesting conversation last night over IM with a friend of Kat's at Stanford. He's a PhD student doing research on blogs and bloggers, and he interviewed me about my own blog and blogging habits. (Incidentally, the class...
I had an interesting conversation last night over IM with a friend of Kat's at Stanford. He's a PhD student doing research on blogs and bloggers, and he interviewed me about my own blog and blogging habits. (Incidentally, the class...
Nov
10
2005
col-bear ra-por
I've given it a month, but I have to admit that I'm not a huge fan of Daily Show spin-off The Colbert Report. That's not to say that the show doesn't have its moments (even now, I'll generally watch through...
I've given it a month, but I have to admit that I'm not a huge fan of Daily Show spin-off The Colbert Report. That's not to say that the show doesn't have its moments (even now, I'll generally watch through...
Nov
9
2005
bring me my graphics
Jon Stewart's former "incredible exploding title graphics" have claimed another victim: CNN's Anderson Cooper. Fishbowl NY observes: One interesting point: is it just me, or does the new 360 set look a lot like the Daily Show set? The funniest...
Jon Stewart's former "incredible exploding title graphics" have claimed another victim: CNN's Anderson Cooper. Fishbowl NY observes: One interesting point: is it just me, or does the new 360 set look a lot like the Daily Show set? The funniest...
Nov
5
2005
quote of the day: monkeys
"My mother will tell me, 'If you really want to write a good book, Laurie, write one about kids.' And I think, If all I'm going to have a kid for is to generate some material, I'll just get a...
"My mother will tell me, 'If you really want to write a good book, Laurie, write one about kids.' And I think, If all I'm going to have a kid for is to generate some material, I'll just get a...
random pop culture detritus
Apple has a trailer for the new movie version of The Producers. A movie based on a play based on a movie about a play. And it looks hilarious. A few weeks ago, the Coverville podcast featured an astonishingly good...
Apple has a trailer for the new movie version of The Producers. A movie based on a play based on a movie about a play. And it looks hilarious. A few weeks ago, the Coverville podcast featured an astonishingly good...
Oct
26
2005
going for realism
Today's Reliable Source gossip column in the Post includes an interesting tidbit about The Visiting, the new Nicole Kidman movie that's being filmed right now here in D.C.: The script of "The Visiting" -- an alien-epidemic thriller due out next...
Today's Reliable Source gossip column in the Post includes an interesting tidbit about The Visiting, the new Nicole Kidman movie that's being filmed right now here in D.C.: The script of "The Visiting" -- an alien-epidemic thriller due out next...
Oct
24
2005
quick recovery
Fishbowl DC has a funny account from Jon Stewart's appearance at George Washington University last weekend: One of the funnier moments came during the second show when a student asked Stewart for his thought's on CNN's "The Situation Room." Stewart...
Fishbowl DC has a funny account from Jon Stewart's appearance at George Washington University last weekend: One of the funnier moments came during the second show when a student asked Stewart for his thought's on CNN's "The Situation Room." Stewart...
presentation is key
If you're a fan of the Adult Swim show The Venture Brothers, you may understand... I made a blueberry crisp this weekend but grossly overestimated how many blueberries I needed, so I made blueberry muffins this morning and brought them...
If you're a fan of the Adult Swim show The Venture Brothers, you may understand... I made a blueberry crisp this weekend but grossly overestimated how many blueberries I needed, so I made blueberry muffins this morning and brought them...
Oct
22
2005
news lingo decoded
Lost Remote has a funny list decoding frequently-used terms heard on television news. The list explains what the terms used to mean, and what they mean now. Among my favorites: "We have new details..." OLD: We have found out additional...
Lost Remote has a funny list decoding frequently-used terms heard on television news. The list explains what the terms used to mean, and what they mean now. Among my favorites: "We have new details..." OLD: We have found out additional...
Oct
9
2005
on second thought
I had no interest in seeing the new Kiera Knightly movie Domino until I saw this in a Rolling Stone review of the film: When Christopher Walken shows up as the producer of Domino's reality-TV show about bounty hunters and...
I had no interest in seeing the new Kiera Knightly movie Domino until I saw this in a Rolling Stone review of the film: When Christopher Walken shows up as the producer of Domino's reality-TV show about bounty hunters and...
quote of the day: fellowship of the ring
Rob, after I accidentally nicked his hand with my engagement ring as we walked back home from Safeway: I bet Sam and Frodo had this problem all the time......
Rob, after I accidentally nicked his hand with my engagement ring as we walked back home from Safeway: I bet Sam and Frodo had this problem all the time......
Oct
7
2005
stay at scully's
Rob and I decided recently that, since we liked Vancouver so much last time, we want to go back this spring for our honeymoon. Doing a little research online, I stumbled upon this little vacation rental gem in the city:...
Rob and I decided recently that, since we liked Vancouver so much last time, we want to go back this spring for our honeymoon. Doing a little research online, I stumbled upon this little vacation rental gem in the city:...
Oct
6
2005
best. cutline. ever.
You must check out this photo and caption, spotted in the Roanoke Times and reposted to Flickr. (Link found via Newly Purnell via DCBlogs.)...
You must check out this photo and caption, spotted in the Roanoke Times and reposted to Flickr. (Link found via Newly Purnell via DCBlogs.)...
spymommy
Interesting story in the New York Times today about Alias and the evolving depiction of pregnancy on television. ("On 'Alias,' the Star Is Now Spying for Two" - 10/06/05) (Warning: The article contains spoilers if you haven't seen the premiere...
Interesting story in the New York Times today about Alias and the evolving depiction of pregnancy on television. ("On 'Alias,' the Star Is Now Spying for Two" - 10/06/05) (Warning: The article contains spoilers if you haven't seen the premiere...
on the tube
The theme of the new additions to my television viewing schedule this season seems to be "support your Buffy alumni." The ensemble cast of How I Met Your Mother includes Alyson Hannigan (formerly Willow Rosenberg) -- although I think my...
The theme of the new additions to my television viewing schedule this season seems to be "support your Buffy alumni." The ensemble cast of How I Met Your Mother includes Alyson Hannigan (formerly Willow Rosenberg) -- although I think my...
Sep
27
2005
adventures in multimedia
Doing research / inspiration-gathering for an upcoming project, I went looking for sites that do interesting things with design and video. Some of the highlights: Churchill and the Great Republic - An online exhibit for the Library of Congress. Yet...
Doing research / inspiration-gathering for an upcoming project, I went looking for sites that do interesting things with design and video. Some of the highlights: Churchill and the Great Republic - An online exhibit for the Library of Congress. Yet...
Sep
25
2005
'bob' no more
The home field of the Arizona Diamondbacks is no longer Bank One Ballpark. JP Morgan Chase's recent acquisition of Bank One necessitated a name change, as Bank One is being absorbed into the Chase fold. The ballpark's new name: Chase...
The home field of the Arizona Diamondbacks is no longer Bank One Ballpark. JP Morgan Chase's recent acquisition of Bank One necessitated a name change, as Bank One is being absorbed into the Chase fold. The ballpark's new name: Chase...
guitarmania
One of my recent freelance projects just went live on Friday. Guitarmania is a public art project sponsored by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona and Fender, featuring 10-foot-tall Stratocaster guitars that have been decorated by local artists and...
One of my recent freelance projects just went live on Friday. Guitarmania is a public art project sponsored by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona and Fender, featuring 10-foot-tall Stratocaster guitars that have been decorated by local artists and...
Sep
24
2005
in vogue
An interesting observation in a Salon.com article about the recent Kate Moss cocaine fiasco (a British tabloid published front-page photos of Moss snorting cocaine, which led to Moss getting fired from some of her most high-profile contracts, including Burberry and...
An interesting observation in a Salon.com article about the recent Kate Moss cocaine fiasco (a British tabloid published front-page photos of Moss snorting cocaine, which led to Moss getting fired from some of her most high-profile contracts, including Burberry and...
wilted dance-off
Happy as I am that John "Peterman Wuz Robbed" O'Hurley won the Dancing with the Stars Dance-Off, the whole thing left me feeling a bit cold. Though his performance was still better than Kelly "Shake and Shimmy" Monaco's, both performers...
Happy as I am that John "Peterman Wuz Robbed" O'Hurley won the Dancing with the Stars Dance-Off, the whole thing left me feeling a bit cold. Though his performance was still better than Kelly "Shake and Shimmy" Monaco's, both performers...
cultural memory
An interesting observation about the 1960s and nostalgia for that era, from an article about Bob Dylan by David Greenberg at Slate.com: We've been drenched for so long in so much mass-produced 1960s kitsch that our Pavlovian responses to the...
An interesting observation about the 1960s and nostalgia for that era, from an article about Bob Dylan by David Greenberg at Slate.com: We've been drenched for so long in so much mass-produced 1960s kitsch that our Pavlovian responses to the...
Sep
23
2005
theme song
I hate getting songs stuck in my head -- particularly songs that correspond to current events because the more I work on graphics related a given event, the more stubbornly that song refuses to disappear. Three weeks ago, the tune...
I hate getting songs stuck in my head -- particularly songs that correspond to current events because the more I work on graphics related a given event, the more stubbornly that song refuses to disappear. Three weeks ago, the tune...
Sep
21
2005
cute and fuzzy
The new panda cub at the National Zoo just keeps getting cuter and cuter, as evidenced by the photos from his latest medical exam. So adorable. How can you not melt at the sight of the little guy, all snug...
The new panda cub at the National Zoo just keeps getting cuter and cuter, as evidenced by the photos from his latest medical exam. So adorable. How can you not melt at the sight of the little guy, all snug...
Sep
19
2005
the pirate made me do it
Once again, it's time for the annual Talk Like a Pirate Day. The Going Out Gurus at washingtonpost.com last week offered a list of ways to celebrate the occasion here in the D.C. area. Arrr....
Once again, it's time for the annual Talk Like a Pirate Day. The Going Out Gurus at washingtonpost.com last week offered a list of ways to celebrate the occasion here in the D.C. area. Arrr....
Sep
13
2005
national public podcast
NPR has podcasts! NPR has podcasts! I've been looking forward to this for a while, actually. I've been a regular NPR listener since 2000, listening to Morning Edition and All Things Considered on my morning and evening commutes. NPR still...
NPR has podcasts! NPR has podcasts! I've been looking forward to this for a while, actually. I've been a regular NPR listener since 2000, listening to Morning Edition and All Things Considered on my morning and evening commutes. NPR still...
Sep
12
2005
crash test dummy
You can't say that Ars Technica isn't thorough in its product reviews. In their review of the iPod nano, Jacqui Cheng and Clint Ecker didn't just evaluate the new music player's interface and use. They also gave the sleek gadget...
You can't say that Ars Technica isn't thorough in its product reviews. In their review of the iPod nano, Jacqui Cheng and Clint Ecker didn't just evaluate the new music player's interface and use. They also gave the sleek gadget...
Sep
7
2005
new tunes
I have to admit that the newly-announced iTunes-compatible cellphone from Apple and Motorola looks pretty drool-worthy. But it's unfortunately burdened with such an incredibly lame name. ROKR? I guess I should be thankful that they didn't go with "iRock" instead....
I have to admit that the newly-announced iTunes-compatible cellphone from Apple and Motorola looks pretty drool-worthy. But it's unfortunately burdened with such an incredibly lame name. ROKR? I guess I should be thankful that they didn't go with "iRock" instead....
Aug
26
2005
pile up
I'm packing up my apartment, getting ready to move in about a week, and my self-assigned task for the night is boxing up my books. I have a lot of books. I can't wholly blame that fact on grad school....
I'm packing up my apartment, getting ready to move in about a week, and my self-assigned task for the night is boxing up my books. I have a lot of books. I can't wholly blame that fact on grad school....
gen y at work
An interesting observation about Generation Y in the workplace from a Poynter article about how to manage Gen Y employees. I don't know how fully I agree with the author's generalizations about my generation, but then maybe I don't really...
An interesting observation about Generation Y in the workplace from a Poynter article about how to manage Gen Y employees. I don't know how fully I agree with the author's generalizations about my generation, but then maybe I don't really...
Aug
19
2005
dance-off on
It's so on... ABC programming chief Steve McPherson is so talented he can come up with a great stunt-programming idea while simultaneously fending off a couple hundred rabid TV critics. The network announced yesterday that John O'Hurley and Kelly Monaco...
It's so on... ABC programming chief Steve McPherson is so talented he can come up with a great stunt-programming idea while simultaneously fending off a couple hundred rabid TV critics. The network announced yesterday that John O'Hurley and Kelly Monaco...
Aug
18
2005
jazz journey
A multimedia project I've been working on for the past few months went live this morning. "A Life Lived in 4/4 Time" is a Web documentary about the life of local jazz musician Lennie Cuje by washingtonpost.com videographer Christina Pino-Marina....
A multimedia project I've been working on for the past few months went live this morning. "A Life Lived in 4/4 Time" is a Web documentary about the life of local jazz musician Lennie Cuje by washingtonpost.com videographer Christina Pino-Marina....
Aug
17
2005
silver surfer
BBC News uses a novel term to describe older Internet users: silver surfers. It's a cute play on words, particularly if you're a comic book aficionado. I'd never heard the term used with respect to a particular online demographic before,...
BBC News uses a novel term to describe older Internet users: silver surfers. It's a cute play on words, particularly if you're a comic book aficionado. I'd never heard the term used with respect to a particular online demographic before,...
take on me
If you're a fan of The Family Guy and 80s pop music, you might be as amused by this clip as I was. It's so unexpected, it's brilliant. (Note: Video clip requires Windows Media Player.) (Link found via TV Squad.)...
If you're a fan of The Family Guy and 80s pop music, you might be as amused by this clip as I was. It's so unexpected, it's brilliant. (Note: Video clip requires Windows Media Player.) (Link found via TV Squad.)...
Aug
16
2005
social utility
The New York Times reports today about a recent book about group behavior which posits that gossip serves important social functions. ("Have You Heard? Gossip Turns Out to Serve a Purpose" - 08/16/05) When two or more people huddle to...
The New York Times reports today about a recent book about group behavior which posits that gossip serves important social functions. ("Have You Heard? Gossip Turns Out to Serve a Purpose" - 08/16/05) When two or more people huddle to...
Aug
4
2005
netflix this
While looking at the Yahoo! Movies profile of the independent film Broken Flowers, I noticed an interesting bit of cross-promotion between Yahoo! and Netflix in the form of a "save to rent later" button that adds the film to a...
While looking at the Yahoo! Movies profile of the independent film Broken Flowers, I noticed an interesting bit of cross-promotion between Yahoo! and Netflix in the form of a "save to rent later" button that adds the film to a...
snarkfest
I must express my love for one of my favorite domain names ever: SnarkMarket.com. (It comes a close second to SnarkyBlue.com.) I love how "snark" is carried through the site, like the "permasnark" for each entry. Related: See the entry...
I must express my love for one of my favorite domain names ever: SnarkMarket.com. (It comes a close second to SnarkyBlue.com.) I love how "snark" is carried through the site, like the "permasnark" for each entry. Related: See the entry...
Jul
31
2005
creative process
I've run across a couple interesting blog entries about various points in the creative process from people whose work I enjoy: Jackson Publick offers a glimpse into the making of an episode of the animated series The Venture Brothers: So...
I've run across a couple interesting blog entries about various points in the creative process from people whose work I enjoy: Jackson Publick offers a glimpse into the making of an episode of the animated series The Venture Brothers: So...
Jul
30
2005
night in the city
Rob and I Metroed into D.C. after work last night for a long-overdue "date night." Our plan: Head over to the National Museum of Natural History for the final installment of Smithsonian Jazz Cafe. Tickets for the event were $10/person...
Rob and I Metroed into D.C. after work last night for a long-overdue "date night." Our plan: Head over to the National Museum of Natural History for the final installment of Smithsonian Jazz Cafe. Tickets for the event were $10/person...
Jul
20
2005
into the final frontier
Today brought the sad news that actor James Doohan, best known as "miracle worker" engineer Scotty on Star Trek, died this morning at the age of 85. His death was attributed to pnemonia and Alzheimer's disease. (AP: "'Star Trek' Star...
Today brought the sad news that actor James Doohan, best known as "miracle worker" engineer Scotty on Star Trek, died this morning at the age of 85. His death was attributed to pnemonia and Alzheimer's disease. (AP: "'Star Trek' Star...
Jul
16
2005
disaster averted
Given how much of my life seems to run through my laptop, it's amazing that my personal mantra isn't "backup. backup. backup." I keep meaning to do comprehensive backups of all my documents, photos and music files on a regular...
Given how much of my life seems to run through my laptop, it's amazing that my personal mantra isn't "backup. backup. backup." I keep meaning to do comprehensive backups of all my documents, photos and music files on a regular...
Jul
15
2005
blogger on the street
Fascinating story in this month's Wired about Jorn Barger, one of the first bloggers: He says he avoids the need for a job by living on less than a dollar a day. "I was carrying a cardboard sign when we...
Fascinating story in this month's Wired about Jorn Barger, one of the first bloggers: He says he avoids the need for a job by living on less than a dollar a day. "I was carrying a cardboard sign when we...
Jul
14
2005
expressing myself
I'm quoted in the paper today! Unbeknownst to me, the morning commuter paper Express included a quote from this blog on page 29 of today's edition (PDF). It came as a complete surprise to me when I got an e-mail...
I'm quoted in the paper today! Unbeknownst to me, the morning commuter paper Express included a quote from this blog on page 29 of today's edition (PDF). It came as a complete surprise to me when I got an e-mail...
Jul
13
2005
new digs
Catching up on my TV, I watched Monday's edition of The Daily Show last night. The show went on a brief hiatus last week in order to move to a new studio; Monday was the first taping on the new...
Catching up on my TV, I watched Monday's edition of The Daily Show last night. The show went on a brief hiatus last week in order to move to a new studio; Monday was the first taping on the new...
podcast revolt
Microsoft is trying to banish the word "podcasting," with its implicit reference to the popular Apple music player, in favor of the more generic "blogcasting," according to reports cited by the Cult of Mac weblog. At this point, though, with...
Microsoft is trying to banish the word "podcasting," with its implicit reference to the popular Apple music player, in favor of the more generic "blogcasting," according to reports cited by the Cult of Mac weblog. At this point, though, with...
Jul
11
2005
dance-off
The finale of ABC's Dancing with the Stars was nearly a week ago, yet I'm still fuming a bit over the outcome. While I'll concede that winner Kelly Monaco (of ABC's General Hospital) was probably one of the hardest-working contestants,...
The finale of ABC's Dancing with the Stars was nearly a week ago, yet I'm still fuming a bit over the outcome. While I'll concede that winner Kelly Monaco (of ABC's General Hospital) was probably one of the hardest-working contestants,...
Jul
8
2005
seen: chimi translation
Spotted by Rob on the weblog glome: I got a chimichanga at a restaurant in Georgetown before the show, and my friend mistakenly called it chichi manga, which we all know in Japanese would have meant "breast comic book."...
Spotted by Rob on the weblog glome: I got a chimichanga at a restaurant in Georgetown before the show, and my friend mistakenly called it chichi manga, which we all know in Japanese would have meant "breast comic book."...
Jul
5
2005
podcasting
Last week, Apple released iTunes 4.9, offering built-in support for podcast subscriptions via the iTunes Music Store. It's a huge step forward in simplifying the process of distributing and subscribing to the audio feeds, as it offers a central podcast...
Last week, Apple released iTunes 4.9, offering built-in support for podcast subscriptions via the iTunes Music Store. It's a huge step forward in simplifying the process of distributing and subscribing to the audio feeds, as it offers a central podcast...
folksonomy
I've been intrigued of late by the concept of "tagging." It's a deceptively simple idea: Organizing content -- writing, photos, links and the like -- by keyword. (I'm not keen on the working term for it, "folksonomy," because I don't...
I've been intrigued of late by the concept of "tagging." It's a deceptively simple idea: Organizing content -- writing, photos, links and the like -- by keyword. (I'm not keen on the working term for it, "folksonomy," because I don't...
Jun
28
2005
quote of the day: looking ahead
A recent edition NPR's On the Media program featured a quote from President Lyndon Johnson's 1967 speech announcing the creation of the Publication for Public Broadcasting. LBJ's "vision" for the future seems eerily prophetic. So I think we must consider...
A recent edition NPR's On the Media program featured a quote from President Lyndon Johnson's 1967 speech announcing the creation of the Publication for Public Broadcasting. LBJ's "vision" for the future seems eerily prophetic. So I think we must consider...
a sad day in the hundred acre wood
I was bummed this weekend to hear about the death of Paul Winchell, who was the voice of Tigger in all the Winnie the Pooh cartoons. I was even more stunned when I read last night that John Fiedler, the...
I was bummed this weekend to hear about the death of Paul Winchell, who was the voice of Tigger in all the Winnie the Pooh cartoons. I was even more stunned when I read last night that John Fiedler, the...
Jun
21
2005
sim me
More than a year after its release for PC, The Sims 2 for Mac finally came out last week. And last night, I purchased it, knowing full well that having this game means that, for the next few weeks...
More than a year after its release for PC, The Sims 2 for Mac finally came out last week. And last night, I purchased it, knowing full well that having this game means that, for the next few weeks...
Jun
18
2005
hail to the king, baby
Bruce Campbell is back. I just found out that the B-movie hero will be returning to D.C. (and the E Street theatre) on Wednesday, June 22, to promote his new book, Make Love the Bruce Campbell Way, and movie, Man...
Bruce Campbell is back. I just found out that the B-movie hero will be returning to D.C. (and the E Street theatre) on Wednesday, June 22, to promote his new book, Make Love the Bruce Campbell Way, and movie, Man...
Jun
17
2005
reading
The other night, I wrapped up Nick Hornby's About a Boy. Finishing a book in less than a week is sort of "record time" for me these days. Since grad school ended and I no longer have to read insane...
The other night, I wrapped up Nick Hornby's About a Boy. Finishing a book in less than a week is sort of "record time" for me these days. Since grad school ended and I no longer have to read insane...
Jun
14
2005
the verdict
Gathered around a small TV tuned to CNN, we watched the Michael Jackson verdict come in this afternoon. Not guilty on all counts. But plenty of damage has still been done to Jackson's public image. Columnist Tina Brown just about...
Gathered around a small TV tuned to CNN, we watched the Michael Jackson verdict come in this afternoon. Not guilty on all counts. But plenty of damage has still been done to Jackson's public image. Columnist Tina Brown just about...
Jun
13
2005
stand by me, yeah
Ears. Ringing. Rob and I left the Sloan concert at the Black Cat about two hours ago, yet the post-concert deafness persists. The show itself was pretty uneven. My familiarity with the band's music is limited to their 1998 album...
Ears. Ringing. Rob and I left the Sloan concert at the Black Cat about two hours ago, yet the post-concert deafness persists. The show itself was pretty uneven. My familiarity with the band's music is limited to their 1998 album...
Jun
9
2005
no day but today
AOL Moviefone has an exclusive preview of the movie version of "rock opera" Broadway musical Rent, due in theatres this November. They've taken the unusual strategy of making the trailer basically a music video of sorts for "Seasons of Love"...
AOL Moviefone has an exclusive preview of the movie version of "rock opera" Broadway musical Rent, due in theatres this November. They've taken the unusual strategy of making the trailer basically a music video of sorts for "Seasons of Love"...
Jun
7
2005
copycat
I followed a "Buy 1 Song, Get 5 Free" promotion link for MSN Music this morning, and was a bit surprised to see that the site was aping Apple's old glassy button style for its "buy" and "confirm" buttons --...
I followed a "Buy 1 Song, Get 5 Free" promotion link for MSN Music this morning, and was a bit surprised to see that the site was aping Apple's old glassy button style for its "buy" and "confirm" buttons --...
Jun
3
2005
the sith sense
I'm home sick today, and since I hate doing nothing, I'm tucked in bed with my laptop, enjoying the utter randomness of the Internet. And I do mean random. Best site of the morning: The Sith Sense, part of...
I'm home sick today, and since I hate doing nothing, I'm tucked in bed with my laptop, enjoying the utter randomness of the Internet. And I do mean random. Best site of the morning: The Sith Sense, part of...
May
25
2005
May
19
2005
revenge of the sith
On a semi-spur-of-the-moment whim, I saw a midnight showing of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith last night with Rob, Shawn and Dari. The bad news: A shockingly paltry selection of die-hard Star Wars geeks in costume to observe in...
On a semi-spur-of-the-moment whim, I saw a midnight showing of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith last night with Rob, Shawn and Dari. The bad news: A shockingly paltry selection of die-hard Star Wars geeks in costume to observe in...
May
8
2005
mother, may i?
For Mother's Day, my sister had the brilliant (and exceedingly selfless) idea to give our mom an iPod mini that she had won through a contest at school. My siblings and I all contributed music (10-20 songs each) to load...
For Mother's Day, my sister had the brilliant (and exceedingly selfless) idea to give our mom an iPod mini that she had won through a contest at school. My siblings and I all contributed music (10-20 songs each) to load...
May
5
2005
webby
The 2005 Webby Award winners have been announced, recognizing Web sites in genres from activism to personal sites. I was very happy to see that McSweeney's won for best copy / writing in voting by both the Webby judges and...
The 2005 Webby Award winners have been announced, recognizing Web sites in genres from activism to personal sites. I was very happy to see that McSweeney's won for best copy / writing in voting by both the Webby judges and...
May
4
2005
the colbert report
Daily Show senior correspondent Stephen Colbert is getting his very own spin-off, reports today's New York Times. ("'Daily Show' Personality Gets His Own Platform" - 05/04/05) It sounds like they've turned the Colbert Report fake program teaser -- in which...
Daily Show senior correspondent Stephen Colbert is getting his very own spin-off, reports today's New York Times. ("'Daily Show' Personality Gets His Own Platform" - 05/04/05) It sounds like they've turned the Colbert Report fake program teaser -- in which...
playlist: in da club
I've been starting to make regular use of the gym in my office, going at least twice a week, and I think one of the big things that keeps me going is my newly-minted "Workout" playlist on my iPod. I...
I've been starting to make regular use of the gym in my office, going at least twice a week, and I think one of the big things that keeps me going is my newly-minted "Workout" playlist on my iPod. I...
May
2
2005
add it to the pile
I think I've just found the next book to add to my reading list: Everything Bad Is Good for You: How Today's Popular Culture Is Actually Making Us Smarter, by Steven Johnson. I loved his book Emergence, which I had...
I think I've just found the next book to add to my reading list: Everything Bad Is Good for You: How Today's Popular Culture Is Actually Making Us Smarter, by Steven Johnson. I loved his book Emergence, which I had...
Apr
30
2005
no surprises
It's seemingly impossible to make anything a "surprise" anymore in this Internet age. I've had a couple attempts at surprising my boyfriend go awry in the past few weeks, all because it's laughably easy to find out what's going on....
It's seemingly impossible to make anything a "surprise" anymore in this Internet age. I've had a couple attempts at surprising my boyfriend go awry in the past few weeks, all because it's laughably easy to find out what's going on....
Apr
27
2005
monies
On Monday, Slate delved into the fuzzy math of Hollywood accounting. As paradoxical and absurd as it sounds, it's cheaper for a Hollywood studio to make a big-budget action movie than to make a shoestring art film like Sideways. Consider...
On Monday, Slate delved into the fuzzy math of Hollywood accounting. As paradoxical and absurd as it sounds, it's cheaper for a Hollywood studio to make a big-budget action movie than to make a shoestring art film like Sideways. Consider...
Apr
24
2005
deep breath
Catching my breath after a big, super-busy week. Tuesday: We have a new pope! (Well, "we" as in "we Catholics." Although, given the way the papal election process has been given saturation coverage, you'd think everyone's a Catholic now.) I'm...
Catching my breath after a big, super-busy week. Tuesday: We have a new pope! (Well, "we" as in "we Catholics." Although, given the way the papal election process has been given saturation coverage, you'd think everyone's a Catholic now.) I'm...
Apr
18
2005
election
Big in the news today: The beginning of the papal conclave, in which all the cardinals (under 80 years old) sequester themselves inside the Sistine Chapel to vote on who becomes the next pope of the Roman Catholic church. Last...
Big in the news today: The beginning of the papal conclave, in which all the cardinals (under 80 years old) sequester themselves inside the Sistine Chapel to vote on who becomes the next pope of the Roman Catholic church. Last...
Apr
12
2005
heard: shout out
Heard at the beginning of Monday night's edition of The Daily Show with Jon Stewart: Welcome to another ... intellectually stimulating Daily Show. Perhaps you could write a thesis on it ... Or, perhaps you could try and pass your...
Heard at the beginning of Monday night's edition of The Daily Show with Jon Stewart: Welcome to another ... intellectually stimulating Daily Show. Perhaps you could write a thesis on it ... Or, perhaps you could try and pass your...
Apr
1
2005
house of procrastination
New York Times technology reporter David Pogue freaked me out a little bit in his review of online DVD rental services: The best part is no late fees and no deadlines. A DVD can sit on your shelf for weeks,...
New York Times technology reporter David Pogue freaked me out a little bit in his review of online DVD rental services: The best part is no late fees and no deadlines. A DVD can sit on your shelf for weeks,...
bleeding edge
Austin-based writer Ben Brown has a fascinating piece about the interplay of virtual communities and physical space at this year's South by Southwest Interactive conference. (BenBrown.com: "Virtual Community Boards, Missed Connections Not Missed, and Ambient Noise") Every time I hear...
Austin-based writer Ben Brown has a fascinating piece about the interplay of virtual communities and physical space at this year's South by Southwest Interactive conference. (BenBrown.com: "Virtual Community Boards, Missed Connections Not Missed, and Ambient Noise") Every time I hear...
Mar
29
2005
music service fee
Ticketmaster's fee structure mystifies me. This evening, I was looking up tickets for a concert next month. The per-ticket base price is $18. Ticketmaster then adds a $4.75 per-ticket service fee. On top of that, I then get the following...
Ticketmaster's fee structure mystifies me. This evening, I was looking up tickets for a concert next month. The per-ticket base price is $18. Ticketmaster then adds a $4.75 per-ticket service fee. On top of that, I then get the following...
Mar
22
2005
magic run
My new musical obsession of the moment is the dreamy song used in Adidas's new ad campaign for its "Adidas-1" shoe. The Internet tells me that the song is "Hello Tomorrow," featuring Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. I...
My new musical obsession of the moment is the dreamy song used in Adidas's new ad campaign for its "Adidas-1" shoe. The Internet tells me that the song is "Hello Tomorrow," featuring Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. I...
Mar
20
2005
fashion disaster
Lately I've been hooked on the fashion makeover show What Not to Wear (the original British version on BBC America). I need someone to tell me what works and what doesn't, and point me in the right direction of specific...
Lately I've been hooked on the fashion makeover show What Not to Wear (the original British version on BBC America). I need someone to tell me what works and what doesn't, and point me in the right direction of specific...
Mar
18
2005
code 2.0
Another wiki in the news, this time from renowned copyright lawyer Lawrence Lessig at Stanford University. Lessig has set up Code v.2, a wiki-based incarnation of his 1999 book Code and Other Laws of Cyberspace, in the hopes that the...
Another wiki in the news, this time from renowned copyright lawyer Lawrence Lessig at Stanford University. Lessig has set up Code v.2, a wiki-based incarnation of his 1999 book Code and Other Laws of Cyberspace, in the hopes that the...
Mar
17
2005
Mar
16
2005
press room
This reminds me of a plot point from an early episode of The West Wing, in which Sam suggests moving the press corps from the White House to the Old Executive Office Building, an idea that isn't taken particularly well....
This reminds me of a plot point from an early episode of The West Wing, in which Sam suggests moving the press corps from the White House to the Old Executive Office Building, an idea that isn't taken particularly well....
Mar
15
2005
tivo me
This makes me so happy. Maybe next year I'll have a real TiVo instead of this generic DVR... :) TiVo Inc., the struggling pioneer of digital video recorders, will make a customized version for Comcast cable subscribers, the two companies...
This makes me so happy. Maybe next year I'll have a real TiVo instead of this generic DVR... :) TiVo Inc., the struggling pioneer of digital video recorders, will make a customized version for Comcast cable subscribers, the two companies...
Mar
13
2005
song of the moment: "rock 'n roll"
Heard a fun song on the radio on the way home from the weekly pilgrimage to Kabob Bazaar: "Rock N Roll" (iTMS) by local musician Eric Hutchinson. Folksy, "guy and his guitar" tune. His voice reminds me a little of...
Heard a fun song on the radio on the way home from the weekly pilgrimage to Kabob Bazaar: "Rock N Roll" (iTMS) by local musician Eric Hutchinson. Folksy, "guy and his guitar" tune. His voice reminds me a little of...
meet and greet
Went into the city with Rob today to meet up with Dari for lunch at Teaism, followed by the panel discussion "Meet the Graphic Novelists" at the Freer Gallery. Getting into town was a nightmare. We took I-395 into the...
Went into the city with Rob today to meet up with Dari for lunch at Teaism, followed by the panel discussion "Meet the Graphic Novelists" at the Freer Gallery. Getting into town was a nightmare. We took I-395 into the...
Mar
11
2005
another rumor debunked
Yet another rumor / "wouldn't this be nice?" supposition I sort of wanted to be true has now been debunked. Reuters reports that Bono, lead singer of U2 is, in fact, not in the running to lead the World Bank....
Yet another rumor / "wouldn't this be nice?" supposition I sort of wanted to be true has now been debunked. Reuters reports that Bono, lead singer of U2 is, in fact, not in the running to lead the World Bank....
the other woman
This month's issue of GQ includes a feature about a cultural phenomenon that I've actually been a party to: the "office wife." Is the boss that clueless, that inept, that shallow or backward-thinking or dim or derelict? Has no one...
This month's issue of GQ includes a feature about a cultural phenomenon that I've actually been a party to: the "office wife." Is the boss that clueless, that inept, that shallow or backward-thinking or dim or derelict? Has no one...
Mar
8
2005
the fugliest thing i ever did see
It's not an entirely new phenomenon to see celebrity magazines on occasion spatter their covers with photos of celebs not at their best (re: in "normal" clothes and without makeup, looking human, natty and mortal like the rest of us)....
It's not an entirely new phenomenon to see celebrity magazines on occasion spatter their covers with photos of celebs not at their best (re: in "normal" clothes and without makeup, looking human, natty and mortal like the rest of us)....
seen: so there
This cracked me up. Seen on the LiveJournal of someone I know: "Turns out I Googled every band you know, and I stole their music, and I listened to their music and deleted it! What do you think about THAT?"...
This cracked me up. Seen on the LiveJournal of someone I know: "Turns out I Googled every band you know, and I stole their music, and I listened to their music and deleted it! What do you think about THAT?"...
Mar
7
2005
ben singing
If you're a Ben Folds / Five fan, the Ben Folds Rarehouse collection of live bootleg tracks might be enough to get you drooling. (Also features music by The Bens (Folds's collaboration with Ben Lee and Ben Kweller) and selections...
If you're a Ben Folds / Five fan, the Ben Folds Rarehouse collection of live bootleg tracks might be enough to get you drooling. (Also features music by The Bens (Folds's collaboration with Ben Lee and Ben Kweller) and selections...
groupthink
Rob passed me a fascinating essay by Clay Shirky on social networking, group dynamics and the creation / dissolution of community. ("A Group Is Its Own Worst Enemy" - 07/01/03) You are at a party, and you get bored. You...
Rob passed me a fascinating essay by Clay Shirky on social networking, group dynamics and the creation / dissolution of community. ("A Group Is Its Own Worst Enemy" - 07/01/03) You are at a party, and you get bored. You...
don't take my snickers away
Despite supposed demand for healthier alternatives in office snack food vending machines, the biggest sellers continue to be the sugar- and salt-heavy selections, while the trail mix and peanuts languish, unpopular and uneaten, reports the Boston Globe. ("Feeding Their Addictions"...
Despite supposed demand for healthier alternatives in office snack food vending machines, the biggest sellers continue to be the sugar- and salt-heavy selections, while the trail mix and peanuts languish, unpopular and uneaten, reports the Boston Globe. ("Feeding Their Addictions"...
Mar
6
2005
superjobs
TPS: This Place Sucks: It's Office Space, starring the Super Friends. Speaking of the Super Friends, I've been getting a kick out of the Adult Swim show Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law on the Cartoon Network, which consists of utterly...
TPS: This Place Sucks: It's Office Space, starring the Super Friends. Speaking of the Super Friends, I've been getting a kick out of the Adult Swim show Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law on the Cartoon Network, which consists of utterly...
no dvd for you
Ever wonder why some television shows have been released on DVD, while other classics (or not-so-classics) have yet to find their way onto store shelves? According to a story at Wired News, music may be partly to blame. ("Copyrights Keep...
Ever wonder why some television shows have been released on DVD, while other classics (or not-so-classics) have yet to find their way onto store shelves? According to a story at Wired News, music may be partly to blame. ("Copyrights Keep...
Mar
3
2005
the pepsi challenge
Despite all logic, I've been going to the CVS a few times a week specifically to buy Diet Pepsi. And I don't even really like Diet Pepsi all that much. (I'll drink it, but it's not my usual drink of...
Despite all logic, I've been going to the CVS a few times a week specifically to buy Diet Pepsi. And I don't even really like Diet Pepsi all that much. (I'll drink it, but it's not my usual drink of...
word of the day: vulturing
vulturing (noun) 1) The act of hovering outside lunchtime meetings in the hopes of scooping up leftover sandwiches and the like once the meeting ends; 2) Keeping an eye out for (and taking advantages of) opportunities for free food; 3)...
vulturing (noun) 1) The act of hovering outside lunchtime meetings in the hopes of scooping up leftover sandwiches and the like once the meeting ends; 2) Keeping an eye out for (and taking advantages of) opportunities for free food; 3)...
Mar
2
2005
on the job
Assorted jobs that I would have no interest in ever trying: (This is by no means a definitive list; it's more "stuff I've read lately.") White House social secretary. Yesterday, the Washington Post profiled Lea Berman, Laura Bush's new right-hand...
Assorted jobs that I would have no interest in ever trying: (This is by no means a definitive list; it's more "stuff I've read lately.") White House social secretary. Yesterday, the Washington Post profiled Lea Berman, Laura Bush's new right-hand...
Mar
1
2005
the scribes have it
Rob suggested tonight over kabobs and tea that the screenwriting Oscar awards serve as better indicators of a given year's best movies -- moreso than the "Best Picture" award. To test that theory, here are screenplay and movie Oscar winners...
Rob suggested tonight over kabobs and tea that the screenwriting Oscar awards serve as better indicators of a given year's best movies -- moreso than the "Best Picture" award. To test that theory, here are screenplay and movie Oscar winners...
Feb
27
2005
oscar-rific
TiVo: It's really the only way to watch an awards show. Start watching about 45 minutes after the show's begun, fast forward through the commercials and boring bits, and you're good! I mean, I'm only really in it to find...
TiVo: It's really the only way to watch an awards show. Start watching about 45 minutes after the show's begun, fast forward through the commercials and boring bits, and you're good! I mean, I'm only really in it to find...
Feb
24
2005
daily ephemera
Continuing my new lazy habit of just listing my daily reading highlights as bullet points, rather than fleshed-out separate entries...
Continuing my new lazy habit of just listing my daily reading highlights as bullet points, rather than fleshed-out separate entries...
randomizer
Random things that I've been meaning to blog about, but hadn't gotten the chance to write an actual entry for: celebrity Apple store customers, purple vs. red ink, McDonald's in the produce business and credit card micropayments.
Random things that I've been meaning to blog about, but hadn't gotten the chance to write an actual entry for: celebrity Apple store customers, purple vs. red ink, McDonald's in the produce business and credit card micropayments.
Feb
20
2005
gonzo
"I hate to advocate drugs, alcohol, violence or insanity to anyone ... but they've always worked for me." Hunter S. Thompson is dead. Thompson was a wildly eccentric writer with a gift for vividly colorful storytelling, and is credited as...
"I hate to advocate drugs, alcohol, violence or insanity to anyone ... but they've always worked for me." Hunter S. Thompson is dead. Thompson was a wildly eccentric writer with a gift for vividly colorful storytelling, and is credited as...
Feb
17
2005
fun with maps
Take a moment to wallow in your inadequate knowledge of geography foreign and domestic. (Or, conversely, impress friends and coworkers with your brainy geographic prowess.) Place the State (sheppardsoftware.com) Northern Africa and the Middle East (rethinkingschools.org) ...
Take a moment to wallow in your inadequate knowledge of geography foreign and domestic. (Or, conversely, impress friends and coworkers with your brainy geographic prowess.) Place the State (sheppardsoftware.com) Northern Africa and the Middle East (rethinkingschools.org) ...
nombre
The other night, I happened across Name Voyager, this really cool site that dynamically graphs the popularity of baby names over time (by decade, from the 1900s to 2003), refining the results as you type in letters. It's a great...
The other night, I happened across Name Voyager, this really cool site that dynamically graphs the popularity of baby names over time (by decade, from the 1900s to 2003), refining the results as you type in letters. It's a great...
Feb
16
2005
laundry etiquette
Forgetful neighbors: Be advised that when you leave your laundry in the washer or dryer for more than half an hour after it's finished, I will set aside my distaste for handling other people's underthings and remove your clothes myself....
Forgetful neighbors: Be advised that when you leave your laundry in the washer or dryer for more than half an hour after it's finished, I will set aside my distaste for handling other people's underthings and remove your clothes myself....
Feb
14
2005
playlist: a valentine
For Valentine's Day this year, I made Rob a playlist. Inspired by a how-to article that ran in Macworld last year, I wrote up a text narrative, linking key words and phrases to particular songs -- reminders of things we'd...
For Valentine's Day this year, I made Rob a playlist. Inspired by a how-to article that ran in Macworld last year, I wrote up a text narrative, linking key words and phrases to particular songs -- reminders of things we'd...
Feb
10
2005
princess consort
One of the big stories of the day is the announcement that Britain's Prince Charles is going to marry longtime girlfriend Camilla Parker Bowles in April. (BBC News: "Prince Charles to marry Camilla" - 02/10/05) It also was quickly announced...
One of the big stories of the day is the announcement that Britain's Prince Charles is going to marry longtime girlfriend Camilla Parker Bowles in April. (BBC News: "Prince Charles to marry Camilla" - 02/10/05) It also was quickly announced...
Feb
3
2005
look away
After about a year of procrastinating about it, I finally went to see a dermatologist today to take care of a mole on my face, next to my nose. Removing it was an easy matter, and the doctor put in...
After about a year of procrastinating about it, I finally went to see a dermatologist today to take care of a mole on my face, next to my nose. Removing it was an easy matter, and the doctor put in...
mixed messages
I'm on Merriam-Webster's "word of the day" e-mail list, and sometimes I wonder if there's some kind of connection or meaning implied between the word sent out and current events. Take today, for example: The day after the president's State...
I'm on Merriam-Webster's "word of the day" e-mail list, and sometimes I wonder if there's some kind of connection or meaning implied between the word sent out and current events. Take today, for example: The day after the president's State...
Feb
1
2005
detective drew
When I was younger, I was a huge fan of Nancy Drew mystery novels (more the circa-1980s/90s paperbacks, although I did read a good number of the classic yellow-spined hardcover novels ... and let's not forget the ultra-suspenseful "super mysteries"...
When I was younger, I was a huge fan of Nancy Drew mystery novels (more the circa-1980s/90s paperbacks, although I did read a good number of the classic yellow-spined hardcover novels ... and let's not forget the ultra-suspenseful "super mysteries"...
Jan
29
2005
lotto loser
The Washington Post Magazine this weekend has a sad follow-up story about Jack Whittaker, the West Virginian who won a $314 million Powerball jackpot back in 2002 and pledged to donate much of it to charity. The massive windfall led...
The Washington Post Magazine this weekend has a sad follow-up story about Jack Whittaker, the West Virginian who won a $314 million Powerball jackpot back in 2002 and pledged to donate much of it to charity. The massive windfall led...
i've got a fever...
The Washington Post today has a story about the impact of the now-classic Saturday Night Live sketch (Windows Media player) lampooning VH1: Behind the Music and the song "(Don't Fear) The Reaper" (iTMS) by the band Blue Öyster Cult. ("Blue...
The Washington Post today has a story about the impact of the now-classic Saturday Night Live sketch (Windows Media player) lampooning VH1: Behind the Music and the song "(Don't Fear) The Reaper" (iTMS) by the band Blue Öyster Cult. ("Blue...
Jan
28
2005
piñata, piñata
The tradition of piñata making has begun to die out in the Mexican city that originated the practice, according to an article in today's Arizona Republic. Faced with stiff competition from large-scale piñata workshops in places like Mexico City, the...
The tradition of piñata making has begun to die out in the Mexican city that originated the practice, according to an article in today's Arizona Republic. Faced with stiff competition from large-scale piñata workshops in places like Mexico City, the...
Jan
26
2005
get local
Washington Post writer Peter Carlson writes today about the frequent use of "local man" and "local woman" in news headlines. ("Prints of a Guy" - 01/26/05) Local Man is famous. He doesn't have a publicist, but he gets more ink...
Washington Post writer Peter Carlson writes today about the frequent use of "local man" and "local woman" in news headlines. ("Prints of a Guy" - 01/26/05) Local Man is famous. He doesn't have a publicist, but he gets more ink...
Jan
20
2005
settling accounts
A New York court today ruled that Marvel Enterprises owes comic book icon Stan Lee "a 10 percent share of profits earned by Marvel since November 1998." The ruling pertains to Marvel's movie franchises -- including X-Men and Spider-Man --...
A New York court today ruled that Marvel Enterprises owes comic book icon Stan Lee "a 10 percent share of profits earned by Marvel since November 1998." The ruling pertains to Marvel's movie franchises -- including X-Men and Spider-Man --...
Jan
6
2005
"who's your daddy" and the overuse of "community"
A couple of interesting articles of late related to language: Washington Post: "Conception of a Question: Who's Your Daddy?" (01/04/05)On the origins and usage of the phrase "Who's Your Daddy?" Washington Post: "Instant Community: No Assembly Required" (12/19/04)On the overuse of...
A couple of interesting articles of late related to language: Washington Post: "Conception of a Question: Who's Your Daddy?" (01/04/05)On the origins and usage of the phrase "Who's Your Daddy?" Washington Post: "Instant Community: No Assembly Required" (12/19/04)On the overuse of...
Jan
5
2005
foot, meet mouth
CNN executive Jonathan Klein made an unfortunate choice of words the other day in describing the cable news channel's coverage of the south Asian tsunami to USA Today: CNN's Jonathan Klein says that with producers and correspondents already stationed around...
CNN executive Jonathan Klein made an unfortunate choice of words the other day in describing the cable news channel's coverage of the south Asian tsunami to USA Today: CNN's Jonathan Klein says that with producers and correspondents already stationed around...
Jan
3
2005
seasonal slump
The holidays and the onset of winter may bring about more cases of depression, but apparently not more suicides. (Washington Post: "A Seasonal Depression? Humbug, Say Scientists" - 01/02/04) The fact is, people are less likely to commit suicide in...
The holidays and the onset of winter may bring about more cases of depression, but apparently not more suicides. (Washington Post: "A Seasonal Depression? Humbug, Say Scientists" - 01/02/04) The fact is, people are less likely to commit suicide in...
Dec
28
2004
quote of the day: alternatives
"Richard Dawkins, Wheen recalls, once pointed out that if an alternative remedy proves to be efficacious -- that is to say, if it is shown to have curative properties in rigorous medical trials -- then 'it ceases to be an...
"Richard Dawkins, Wheen recalls, once pointed out that if an alternative remedy proves to be efficacious -- that is to say, if it is shown to have curative properties in rigorous medical trials -- then 'it ceases to be an...
Dec
27
2004
best of 2004
It's time again for those roundups of events and "bests" of the the past year... Arts & Culture New York Times: "Culture: Best of 2004"Salon.com: "When Comedy Drew Blood" Movies New York Times: "The Best Movies of 2004"Roger Ebert, Chicago...
It's time again for those roundups of events and "bests" of the the past year... Arts & Culture New York Times: "Culture: Best of 2004"Salon.com: "When Comedy Drew Blood" Movies New York Times: "The Best Movies of 2004"Roger Ebert, Chicago...
Dec
23
2004
the cuddly corporation
Canadian magazine Maisonneuve has a great article about how IKEA has managed to become such a huge corporate monolith, yet still inspire fierce devotion among its customers and employees. ("For the Love of Poäng" - Dec. 2004) But while all...
Canadian magazine Maisonneuve has a great article about how IKEA has managed to become such a huge corporate monolith, yet still inspire fierce devotion among its customers and employees. ("For the Love of Poäng" - Dec. 2004) But while all...
quote of the day: flame war
"E-mails are the drive-by shootings of the common man." - Washington Post columnist Richard Cohen, on hate mail. ("Caricature References" - 12/23/04)...
"E-mails are the drive-by shootings of the common man." - Washington Post columnist Richard Cohen, on hate mail. ("Caricature References" - 12/23/04)...
Dec
16
2004
sales experience
Advertising writer Stuart Elliott of the New York Times writes about the shopping experience as a crucial part of a product / brand experience, further conveying the lifestyle / marketing image that the company is trying to imbue its products...
Advertising writer Stuart Elliott of the New York Times writes about the shopping experience as a crucial part of a product / brand experience, further conveying the lifestyle / marketing image that the company is trying to imbue its products...
Dec
15
2004
blockbusted
Video rental chain Blockbuster announced yesterday that, effective January 1, it's ending its policy of charging hefty late fees for late rental returns. The company is facing stiff competition from video-on-demand services and online movie rental companies like Netflix, and...
Video rental chain Blockbuster announced yesterday that, effective January 1, it's ending its policy of charging hefty late fees for late rental returns. The company is facing stiff competition from video-on-demand services and online movie rental companies like Netflix, and...
seen: this day in history
"On this day ... 15 December. In 1980 members of the Truth Tabernacle Church in Burlington, North Carolina, staged a mock trial, charging 'Satan Claus' on 10 counts, including child abuse, impersonation of St Nicholas, Baal idolatry and falsification of...
"On this day ... 15 December. In 1980 members of the Truth Tabernacle Church in Burlington, North Carolina, staged a mock trial, charging 'Satan Claus' on 10 counts, including child abuse, impersonation of St Nicholas, Baal idolatry and falsification of...
Dec
14
2004
song of the moment: 'future sightings'
My random music recommendation of the day: "Future Sightings" (mp3) by the group I Am the World Trade Center, a bright New Order-ish electronica-pop ditty. I've had it stuck in my head for the past 12 hours, and it seems...
My random music recommendation of the day: "Future Sightings" (mp3) by the group I Am the World Trade Center, a bright New Order-ish electronica-pop ditty. I've had it stuck in my head for the past 12 hours, and it seems...
Dec
13
2004
mixed messages
Ah, the language of color. Take, for example, the many meanings of the color yellow... "Live Strong" is a popular cancer research fundraising effort that has embraced yellow as its primary color. However, the St. Petersburg Times reports that some...
Ah, the language of color. Take, for example, the many meanings of the color yellow... "Live Strong" is a popular cancer research fundraising effort that has embraced yellow as its primary color. However, the St. Petersburg Times reports that some...
Dec
7
2004
voices carry
Talk about the power of a squeaky wheel... Mediaweek reported yesterday that 99.8 of all indecency complaints submitted to the FCC last year were filed by one group: the Parents Television Council. ("Activists Dominate Content Complaints" - 12/06/04) Through early...
Talk about the power of a squeaky wheel... Mediaweek reported yesterday that 99.8 of all indecency complaints submitted to the FCC last year were filed by one group: the Parents Television Council. ("Activists Dominate Content Complaints" - 12/06/04) Through early...
Dec
6
2004
quote of the day: a very 'willard' christmas
"My equally demonic sister has a whole collection of rodents dressed in holiday clothes that she puts up around her house. There's a mouse Santa Claus and mouse Mrs. Claus and mice elves and a miniature Christmas village with mice,...
"My equally demonic sister has a whole collection of rodents dressed in holiday clothes that she puts up around her house. There's a mouse Santa Claus and mouse Mrs. Claus and mice elves and a miniature Christmas village with mice,...
Dec
3
2004
oh, the irony
The New York Times today reports that the major record labels are turning to Shawn Fanning, who as a teenager created the original Napster, for help and advice in cutting down on illegal music downloads. ("Music Industry Turns to Napster...
The New York Times today reports that the major record labels are turning to Shawn Fanning, who as a teenager created the original Napster, for help and advice in cutting down on illegal music downloads. ("Music Industry Turns to Napster...
Nov
29
2004
red state, blue state
Ever since the election, there have been a ton of stories in the media about "red states vs. blue states," with regard to the results of the most recent presidential election and what the pundits and critics believe those results...
Ever since the election, there have been a ton of stories in the media about "red states vs. blue states," with regard to the results of the most recent presidential election and what the pundits and critics believe those results...
Nov
27
2004
ché
I saw The Motorcycle Diaries with Rob yesterday in Ballston. The film, about a road trip that Ernesto Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado took as medical students years before Guevara became the communist revolutionary Ché, makes for a striking...
I saw The Motorcycle Diaries with Rob yesterday in Ballston. The film, about a road trip that Ernesto Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado took as medical students years before Guevara became the communist revolutionary Ché, makes for a striking...
Nov
26
2004
this is sportscenter
I'm not a big fan of sports, but I do enjoy ESPN SportsCenter. In particular, I love the commercials that ESPN makes to promote the show. They're so funny and clever, if ESPN released a DVD of just the commercials,...
I'm not a big fan of sports, but I do enjoy ESPN SportsCenter. In particular, I love the commercials that ESPN makes to promote the show. They're so funny and clever, if ESPN released a DVD of just the commercials,...
death of the slide projector
The Washington Post's Hank Stuever had a good story yesterday about the demise of the slide projector and its place in pop culture. I love the way it's written, as a kind of slideshow narrative. ("Chuh-Click. Sunset." - 11/25/04) The...
The Washington Post's Hank Stuever had a good story yesterday about the demise of the slide projector and its place in pop culture. I love the way it's written, as a kind of slideshow narrative. ("Chuh-Click. Sunset." - 11/25/04) The...
Nov
24
2004
a schindler less simple
The New York Times today has a story about a new biography of Oskar Schindler (of Schindler's List fame) that introduces even more complexity into the collective historical knowledge of the man. ("Book Adds Layers of Complexity to the Schindler...
The New York Times today has a story about a new biography of Oskar Schindler (of Schindler's List fame) that introduces even more complexity into the collective historical knowledge of the man. ("Book Adds Layers of Complexity to the Schindler...
crabby ransom
Wire story seen today at azcentral.com: SpongeBob kidnappers seek ransom MINNESOTA - Police are looking for a a blow-up figure of SpongeBob SquarePants swiped from a Minnesota Burger King. They've found a ransom note which starts off: "We have SpongeBob."...
Wire story seen today at azcentral.com: SpongeBob kidnappers seek ransom MINNESOTA - Police are looking for a a blow-up figure of SpongeBob SquarePants swiped from a Minnesota Burger King. They've found a ransom note which starts off: "We have SpongeBob."...
Nov
23
2004
the bono strain
Bono must be stopped. I have something of a love-hate relationship with the frontman of U2. On one hand, I find his energy, enthusiasm, social conciousness and almost bufoonish pretentiousness almost endearing. U2 wouldn't be U2 without him. However, I...
Bono must be stopped. I have something of a love-hate relationship with the frontman of U2. On one hand, I find his energy, enthusiasm, social conciousness and almost bufoonish pretentiousness almost endearing. U2 wouldn't be U2 without him. However, I...
Nov
15
2004
quote of the day: cultlike devotion
"[The job of a brand manager] now is to create and maintain a whole meaning system for people, through which they get identity and understanding of the world. Their job now is to be a community leader... People, whether they're...
"[The job of a brand manager] now is to create and maintain a whole meaning system for people, through which they get identity and understanding of the world. Their job now is to be a community leader... People, whether they're...
Nov
14
2004
girlfriend
Rob and I went to see Matthew Sweet, with Velvet Crush, at the 9:30 Club last night. I'm not very familiar with Sweet's music, beyond the MP3 of "I've Been Waiting" (iTMS) that lives in my music library and the...
Rob and I went to see Matthew Sweet, with Velvet Crush, at the 9:30 Club last night. I'm not very familiar with Sweet's music, beyond the MP3 of "I've Been Waiting" (iTMS) that lives in my music library and the...
Nov
5
2004
quote: political shame
"So tell me, how painful was it when the doctor removed your sense of shame?" - Triumph the Insult Comic Dog (QuickTime), in "Spin Alley" after the third presidential debate....
"So tell me, how painful was it when the doctor removed your sense of shame?" - Triumph the Insult Comic Dog (QuickTime), in "Spin Alley" after the third presidential debate....
jedi fever
The first teaser trailer for Star Wars III: Revenge of the Sith premiered yesterday on various TV entertainment programs, and also is supposed to be among the previews in front of The Incredibles, opening today. Paid subscribers to "Hyperspace" at...
The first teaser trailer for Star Wars III: Revenge of the Sith premiered yesterday on various TV entertainment programs, and also is supposed to be among the previews in front of The Incredibles, opening today. Paid subscribers to "Hyperspace" at...
Nov
1
2004
fantastic preview?
USA Today offered a "first peek" at the costumed stars of the upcoming Fantastic Four movie, based on the Marvel comic of the same name. SuperHeroHype followed up by posting photos of all four of the lead characters. Looks cool...
USA Today offered a "first peek" at the costumed stars of the upcoming Fantastic Four movie, based on the Marvel comic of the same name. SuperHeroHype followed up by posting photos of all four of the lead characters. Looks cool...
Oct
30
2004
catching up
I haven't had time to post regular updates to this blog for the past couple weeks, as I've wound up one job and started another, so, in lieu of writing a lot of individual entries about the random things that...
I haven't had time to post regular updates to this blog for the past couple weeks, as I've wound up one job and started another, so, in lieu of writing a lot of individual entries about the random things that...
Oct
20
2004
you know you're addicted to tivo when...
... you try to fast-forward through the commercials on the live baseball game you're watching on TV ... which only reinforces your TiVo-induced distaste for live television....
... you try to fast-forward through the commercials on the live baseball game you're watching on TV ... which only reinforces your TiVo-induced distaste for live television....
Oct
18
2004
deception lane
The Daily Show's Jon Stewart was a guest on CNN's Crossfire this past Friday, and instead of just telling jokes about politics and current events (although he did a bit of that, too), he spent most of his visit criticizing...
The Daily Show's Jon Stewart was a guest on CNN's Crossfire this past Friday, and instead of just telling jokes about politics and current events (although he did a bit of that, too), he spent most of his visit criticizing...
sometimes i feel i've got to ... run away
I read today that Marc Almond, the lead singer of '80s band Soft Cell, was critically injured this weekend in a car / motorcycle accident. The headline immediately made me picture him in that Levi jeans commercial where the doctors...
I read today that Marc Almond, the lead singer of '80s band Soft Cell, was critically injured this weekend in a car / motorcycle accident. The headline immediately made me picture him in that Levi jeans commercial where the doctors...
Oct
11
2004
shatneresque
I never thought I'd say this but ... Have you heard the new William Shatner album? It's pretty good.
I never thought I'd say this but ... Have you heard the new William Shatner album? It's pretty good.
Sep
28
2004
vertiginous
The iTunes Music Store just added "Vertigo," the latest single by U2, to its library. And Apple is going all-out to promote the record ... such as this blast e-mail that they sent out this afternoon: iTunes Exclusive U2's New...
The iTunes Music Store just added "Vertigo," the latest single by U2, to its library. And Apple is going all-out to promote the record ... such as this blast e-mail that they sent out this afternoon: iTunes Exclusive U2's New...
Sep
27
2004
resilience
The New York Times ran a really interesting story earlier this month about people who, rather than falling apart in high-stress jobs, actually thrive. ("Cracking Under the Pressure? It's Just the Opposite, for Some" - 09/10/04) The article cites several...
The New York Times ran a really interesting story earlier this month about people who, rather than falling apart in high-stress jobs, actually thrive. ("Cracking Under the Pressure? It's Just the Opposite, for Some" - 09/10/04) The article cites several...
the slacker zone
Daily Show viewers may be "slackers" -- but they're well-informed slackers, at least compared to their non-Daily Show-watching demographic counterparts. After Fox News personality Bill O'Reilly dismissed the Daily Show audience as a bunch of "stoned slackers" watching a "dopey...
Daily Show viewers may be "slackers" -- but they're well-informed slackers, at least compared to their non-Daily Show-watching demographic counterparts. After Fox News personality Bill O'Reilly dismissed the Daily Show audience as a bunch of "stoned slackers" watching a "dopey...
Sep
23
2004
another man's done gone
Sad news: Indie movie theatre Visions is shuttering its Dupont Circle doors. (Washington Post: "Final Reel to Roll At Washington's Visions Theater" - 09/23/04) The owner cited stiff competition from other local theatres, particularly corporate-owned indie moviehouses (which seems like...
Sad news: Indie movie theatre Visions is shuttering its Dupont Circle doors. (Washington Post: "Final Reel to Roll At Washington's Visions Theater" - 09/23/04) The owner cited stiff competition from other local theatres, particularly corporate-owned indie moviehouses (which seems like...
Sep
21
2004
modern classics
To my horror, I heard "Under the Bridge" by the Red Hot Chili Peppers on a local classic rock station. This is the same station I heard play some Joshua Tree-era U2 a couple days ago. It's disconcerting to hear...
To my horror, I heard "Under the Bridge" by the Red Hot Chili Peppers on a local classic rock station. This is the same station I heard play some Joshua Tree-era U2 a couple days ago. It's disconcerting to hear...
Sep
19
2004
'tis that time again, matey
Avast! Once again, aye, 'tis Talk Like a Pirate Day! And this time, the organizers even have a book to teach ye how to be talkin' like a proper pirate. Get even more into character and get ye a pirate...
Avast! Once again, aye, 'tis Talk Like a Pirate Day! And this time, the organizers even have a book to teach ye how to be talkin' like a proper pirate. Get even more into character and get ye a pirate...
Sep
17
2004
jump the shark?
With all the attention lavished on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart in this election cycle, I'm beginning to wonder if (or when) the show is going to cross the line from subversive political satire to mainstream infotainment. If it...
With all the attention lavished on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart in this election cycle, I'm beginning to wonder if (or when) the show is going to cross the line from subversive political satire to mainstream infotainment. If it...
Sep
16
2004
quote of the day: irreconcilable differences
Lisa: Don't be so hard on yourself, Bart. It's not your fault Jessica doesn't like you. Bart: Is it my hair? My overbite? The fact that I've worn the same clothes day in, day out for the last four years?...
Lisa: Don't be so hard on yourself, Bart. It's not your fault Jessica doesn't like you. Bart: Is it my hair? My overbite? The fact that I've worn the same clothes day in, day out for the last four years?...
Sep
12
2004
heard: alternative music
I heard this station identification on a local radio station this evening: Z104. It's like your iPod, only without the work. The station followed it up with the latest single by Train ... which compelled me to pull out my...
I heard this station identification on a local radio station this evening: Z104. It's like your iPod, only without the work. The station followed it up with the latest single by Train ... which compelled me to pull out my...
Sep
11
2004
quote of the day: jaded
"Aah, the arrogance of youth! I thought I knew everything when I was three. Now, a lifetime of experience has left me bitter and cynical." - Calvin, Calvin and Hobbes...
"Aah, the arrogance of youth! I thought I knew everything when I was three. Now, a lifetime of experience has left me bitter and cynical." - Calvin, Calvin and Hobbes...
Sep
10
2004
everywhere at once
He's "That Guy." And now he's in the New York Times. Rob Huebel, who will forever be Mr. "Inconsiderate Cellphone Man" to me, has been popping up in commercials all over the place, starring as everything from "Candidate Zero" for...
He's "That Guy." And now he's in the New York Times. Rob Huebel, who will forever be Mr. "Inconsiderate Cellphone Man" to me, has been popping up in commercials all over the place, starring as everything from "Candidate Zero" for...
hot dog
I have a new oddball mini-obsession with the television commercial (QuickTime movie) for the new Nintendo GameCube game "Pikmin 2." It's weird, vaguely disturbing and offbeat-funny, all at once. I caught it the other night at the tail end of...
I have a new oddball mini-obsession with the television commercial (QuickTime movie) for the new Nintendo GameCube game "Pikmin 2." It's weird, vaguely disturbing and offbeat-funny, all at once. I caught it the other night at the tail end of...
Sep
3
2004
outwest
Is the Subaru Outback the official car of Seattle? In our first couple days in Seattle, we seemed to spot several Outbacks at a time on the city streets. Granted, we may have been a bit more hyperconscious of Outbacks...
Is the Subaru Outback the official car of Seattle? In our first couple days in Seattle, we seemed to spot several Outbacks at a time on the city streets. Granted, we may have been a bit more hyperconscious of Outbacks...
Sep
1
2004
Aug
31
2004
the green stuff
An interesting tidbit from Wired today... Go Out and Play Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, which affects about 3 to 5 percent of U.S. children, may be alleviated with a simple treatment: outdoor activity in green areas such as parks, farms and...
An interesting tidbit from Wired today... Go Out and Play Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, which affects about 3 to 5 percent of U.S. children, may be alleviated with a simple treatment: outdoor activity in green areas such as parks, farms and...
Aug
24
2004
PSA
TV Public Service Announcement: Democratic presidential contender John Kerry is appearing tonight on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. While political figures certainly aren't strangers to the show (all of the Democratic hopefuls except Kerry appeared on the show this...
TV Public Service Announcement: Democratic presidential contender John Kerry is appearing tonight on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. While political figures certainly aren't strangers to the show (all of the Democratic hopefuls except Kerry appeared on the show this...
Aug
22
2004
under the microscope
I think that if I had to endure the kind of nit-picky scrutiny that mega-celebrities deal with all the time, I'd go bonkers, either believing what folks in the entertainment/tabloid press said about me (good or bad), or tearing my...
I think that if I had to endure the kind of nit-picky scrutiny that mega-celebrities deal with all the time, I'd go bonkers, either believing what folks in the entertainment/tabloid press said about me (good or bad), or tearing my...
Aug
17
2004
well-coiffed
A few weeks ago, I was thoroughly engrossed in the Arthur Golden book Memoirs of a Geisha, a fictional biography of a Japanese geisha who entered her profession just before World War II. Today's Washington Post brought a story about...
A few weeks ago, I was thoroughly engrossed in the Arthur Golden book Memoirs of a Geisha, a fictional biography of a Japanese geisha who entered her profession just before World War II. Today's Washington Post brought a story about...
seen: hunker down
"Hunker Down" Bingo A friend of mine here in St. Pete ... told me that during the Hurricane evacuations Friday, she and her son played "hunker down bingo." They waited until somebody on TV said the words "hunker down" then...
"Hunker Down" Bingo A friend of mine here in St. Pete ... told me that during the Hurricane evacuations Friday, she and her son played "hunker down bingo." They waited until somebody on TV said the words "hunker down" then...
Aug
15
2004
at an advantage
Knowing that they provide important experience, networking possibilities and resume fodder, I've toyed with the idea of pursuing various internships -- from working for newspapers to working on the Hill -- since undergrad. But I mostly ruled out such opportunities...
Knowing that they provide important experience, networking possibilities and resume fodder, I've toyed with the idea of pursuing various internships -- from working for newspapers to working on the Hill -- since undergrad. But I mostly ruled out such opportunities...
ready excuses
Going on a blind date? No need to rely on your friends anymore for that pre-planned "get me out of here" excuse if things go sour. Now, for a fee, Cingular Wireless and Virgin Mobile USA are offering customers the...
Going on a blind date? No need to rely on your friends anymore for that pre-planned "get me out of here" excuse if things go sour. Now, for a fee, Cingular Wireless and Virgin Mobile USA are offering customers the...
barbie for president
Now Barbie's running for president. Looking something like a cross between Hillary Clinton and a flight attendant, Barbie is the official candidate of the Party of Girls. Her campaign slogan is "Think PINK for 2004" -- PINK standing for "Peace,...
Now Barbie's running for president. Looking something like a cross between Hillary Clinton and a flight attendant, Barbie is the official candidate of the Party of Girls. Her campaign slogan is "Think PINK for 2004" -- PINK standing for "Peace,...
Aug
13
2004
song of the day
Random comment: Michael Bublé's version of the Spider-Man theme ("Spider-Man, Spider-Man / Does whatever a spider can...") is incredible over-the-top campy fun. I can't stop listening to it today. Which reminds me ... I still need to see the movie......
Random comment: Michael Bublé's version of the Spider-Man theme ("Spider-Man, Spider-Man / Does whatever a spider can...") is incredible over-the-top campy fun. I can't stop listening to it today. Which reminds me ... I still need to see the movie......
Aug
7
2004
word of the day: quiddity
quiddity \KWID-uh-tee\ - noun *1 : whatever makes something the type that it is : essence 2 a : a trifling point : quibble b : crotchet, eccentricity Example sentence: "We wanted to enhance [the house] without 'countrifying' it --...
quiddity \KWID-uh-tee\ - noun *1 : whatever makes something the type that it is : essence 2 a : a trifling point : quibble b : crotchet, eccentricity Example sentence: "We wanted to enhance [the house] without 'countrifying' it --...
Aug
4
2004
scandalous skivvies
It's not just "boxers or briefs?" anymore. Sunday's New York Times featured a story about the evolution of the marketing and style of men's underwear. ("When Did Skivvies Get Rated NC-17?" - 08/01/04) With new brands, novel styles and scandalous...
It's not just "boxers or briefs?" anymore. Sunday's New York Times featured a story about the evolution of the marketing and style of men's underwear. ("When Did Skivvies Get Rated NC-17?" - 08/01/04) With new brands, novel styles and scandalous...
straight talk
Continuing the apparent Bush parody tangent ... Comedian Will Ferrell reprises his role as President George W. Bush from SNL in the "Straight Talk from White House West" ad campaign from political advocacy group America Coming Together. The commercial is...
Continuing the apparent Bush parody tangent ... Comedian Will Ferrell reprises his role as President George W. Bush from SNL in the "Straight Talk from White House West" ad campaign from political advocacy group America Coming Together. The commercial is...
Jul
31
2004
programmed to serve
Saw the remake of The Manchurian Candidate, starring Denzel Washington, last night. Fairly good, and vaguely unsettling -- although I suppose that's the point. I've never seen the original; I TiVo'ed it earlier this week, though, so I'll try to...
Saw the remake of The Manchurian Candidate, starring Denzel Washington, last night. Fairly good, and vaguely unsettling -- although I suppose that's the point. I've never seen the original; I TiVo'ed it earlier this week, though, so I'll try to...
Jul
23
2004
contingency plan
An unfinished copy of the band U2's newest album, Vertigo, due out this fall, was stolen during a photo shoot in France recently. If the new songs show up online, the band plans to release the album via the iTunes...
An unfinished copy of the band U2's newest album, Vertigo, due out this fall, was stolen during a photo shoot in France recently. If the new songs show up online, the band plans to release the album via the iTunes...
Jul
20
2004
'jane' sightings
For some weird reason, I seem to be hearing Velvet Underground's "Sweet Jane" a lot lately. And that's not just because the song's in my current playlist. A few weeks ago, I downloaded "Dracula from Houston" by the Butthole Surfers...
For some weird reason, I seem to be hearing Velvet Underground's "Sweet Jane" a lot lately. And that's not just because the song's in my current playlist. A few weeks ago, I downloaded "Dracula from Houston" by the Butthole Surfers...
Jul
19
2004
walking back
This month also marks an important anniversary. Twenty-five years ago, Sony introduced the Walkman music player. (Knight Ridder/Tribune News: "July 1979: Walkman spawned a revolution" - 07/16/04) Twenty-five years ago this month, America tuned out. A midnight-blue-and-silver brick with astonishing...
This month also marks an important anniversary. Twenty-five years ago, Sony introduced the Walkman music player. (Knight Ridder/Tribune News: "July 1979: Walkman spawned a revolution" - 07/16/04) Twenty-five years ago this month, America tuned out. A midnight-blue-and-silver brick with astonishing...
type geekery
I'm a lightweight type geek. I like to impress (or annoy) friends and relatives by pointing out typefaces I recognize on signs, menus, commercials and the like. (I do the same with movie scores that have been repurposed for other...
I'm a lightweight type geek. I like to impress (or annoy) friends and relatives by pointing out typefaces I recognize on signs, menus, commercials and the like. (I do the same with movie scores that have been repurposed for other...
free tunes ... sorta
The Washington Post reported this weekend that George Washington University is offering free Napster subscriptions to students living in campus residence halls. ("GWU Students Will Get Free Tunes This Fall" - 07/17/04) Students will be able to download songs for...
The Washington Post reported this weekend that George Washington University is offering free Napster subscriptions to students living in campus residence halls. ("GWU Students Will Get Free Tunes This Fall" - 07/17/04) Students will be able to download songs for...
ipod 4g
Newsweek appears to have the exclusive with details on the next generation of iPod music players. ("The New iPod" - 07/26/04) A cover story about Apple CEO Steve Jobs and the popular digital music player (a story and issue cover...
Newsweek appears to have the exclusive with details on the next generation of iPod music players. ("The New iPod" - 07/26/04) A cover story about Apple CEO Steve Jobs and the popular digital music player (a story and issue cover...
Jul
16
2004
publicity machine
The writer of an Associated Press story about the opening of a new IKEA near the Mall of America marvels at the power -- and success -- of the IKEA's public relations strategy. ("When it comes to publicity, Ikea doesn't...
The writer of an Associated Press story about the opening of a new IKEA near the Mall of America marvels at the power -- and success -- of the IKEA's public relations strategy. ("When it comes to publicity, Ikea doesn't...
hidden wonders
Earlier this month, the Washington Post ran a story about one of those little hidden wonders the city has to offer: The gelato bar at the National Gallery's underground Cascade Cafe. ("Warhol's Soup Cans? Bleh. Show Us the Gelato" -...
Earlier this month, the Washington Post ran a story about one of those little hidden wonders the city has to offer: The gelato bar at the National Gallery's underground Cascade Cafe. ("Warhol's Soup Cans? Bleh. Show Us the Gelato" -...
Jul
14
2004
customer care
At Best Buy, the customer's not always right anymore. The company has started "weeding out" costly or unproductive customers. (Associated Press: "The customer is always right? Not anymore" - 07/05/04) Some retailers are deciding that the customer can be very,...
At Best Buy, the customer's not always right anymore. The company has started "weeding out" costly or unproductive customers. (Associated Press: "The customer is always right? Not anymore" - 07/05/04) Some retailers are deciding that the customer can be very,...
Jul
13
2004
jonesing
I think my iPod has developed a disturbing fixation on Norah Jones. Among the many playlists I've transferred to my iPod is a "smart playlist" of the songs in my library that feature Ms. Jones (both from her own albums...
I think my iPod has developed a disturbing fixation on Norah Jones. Among the many playlists I've transferred to my iPod is a "smart playlist" of the songs in my library that feature Ms. Jones (both from her own albums...
Jul
3
2004
meet the parents
The prospect of meeting your significant other's parents carries a wholly different meaning when you're an adult. It's not like meeting your friends' parents, or even your high school or college sweetheart's parents. "Meeting the parents" as an adult isn't...
The prospect of meeting your significant other's parents carries a wholly different meaning when you're an adult. It's not like meeting your friends' parents, or even your high school or college sweetheart's parents. "Meeting the parents" as an adult isn't...
Jul
1
2004
word of the day: exsanguination
ex·san·gui·na·tion // (")ek(s)-"sa[ng]-gw&-'nA-sh&n - noun : the action or process of draining or losing blood - ex·san·gui·nate /ek(s)-'sa[ng]-gw&-"nAt/ transitive verb (From m-w.com.) Why exsanguination? Because, its meaning aside, it's just fun to say. It's a lazy, drawling counterpoint to the...
ex·san·gui·na·tion // (")ek(s)-"sa[ng]-gw&-'nA-sh&n - noun : the action or process of draining or losing blood - ex·san·gui·nate /ek(s)-'sa[ng]-gw&-"nAt/ transitive verb (From m-w.com.) Why exsanguination? Because, its meaning aside, it's just fun to say. It's a lazy, drawling counterpoint to the...
Jun
29
2004
ikea-like
I got an e-mail this morning announcing the launch of CB2, apparently the new "young, urban hipster" offering from Crate and Barrel. While there's only one "live" store so far -- in Chicago, so I'll have to add it to...
I got an e-mail this morning announcing the launch of CB2, apparently the new "young, urban hipster" offering from Crate and Barrel. While there's only one "live" store so far -- in Chicago, so I'll have to add it to...
Jun
27
2004
(another) quote of the day: woefather
"The question arises: how did Robert Smith, this sobbing wraith, become the godfather of woe?" - From a New York Times story about the lasting influence of The Cure ("The Cure Returns to Face Its Progeny" - 06/27/04) (Thanks to...
"The question arises: how did Robert Smith, this sobbing wraith, become the godfather of woe?" - From a New York Times story about the lasting influence of The Cure ("The Cure Returns to Face Its Progeny" - 06/27/04) (Thanks to...
Jun
24
2004
turnabout?
A story in today's Washington Post included a curious observation about the new Michael Moore film Fahrenheit 9/11. ("'Fahrenheit 9/11' Is a Red-Hot Ticket" - 06/24/04) "I can't think of any precedent for it in a presidential campaign," says Frances...
A story in today's Washington Post included a curious observation about the new Michael Moore film Fahrenheit 9/11. ("'Fahrenheit 9/11' Is a Red-Hot Ticket" - 06/24/04) "I can't think of any precedent for it in a presidential campaign," says Frances...
Jun
23
2004
design your ideal workspace
A poster to Slashdot yesterday posed a great question: How would you design an ideal office environment for, in this case, 40-45 employees of various disciplines? The responses thus far have been fascinating. In many replies, there was a definite...
A poster to Slashdot yesterday posed a great question: How would you design an ideal office environment for, in this case, 40-45 employees of various disciplines? The responses thus far have been fascinating. In many replies, there was a definite...
Jun
21
2004
a new webslinger in town
Peter Parker's not the only Spider-Man anymore. Marvel Comics announced on June 14 the launch of a new comic book: Spider-Man India, set in Bombay. A press release posted at the Web site of Gotham Comics, a comic book/magazine publisher...
Peter Parker's not the only Spider-Man anymore. Marvel Comics announced on June 14 the launch of a new comic book: Spider-Man India, set in Bombay. A press release posted at the Web site of Gotham Comics, a comic book/magazine publisher...
Jun
16
2004
burning out on ben?
A couple weeks ago, while wandering through Potomac Mills, I noticed a preview of the movie Dodgeball onscreen. I was surprised to recognize Ben Stiller, as he's already been in a few movies this year. I stopped to watch the...
A couple weeks ago, while wandering through Potomac Mills, I noticed a preview of the movie Dodgeball onscreen. I was surprised to recognize Ben Stiller, as he's already been in a few movies this year. I stopped to watch the...
Jun
15
2004
studying video games
The Los Angeles Times last week had a story about a the Annenberg Studies on Computer Games, a new research group at the University of Southern California's Annenberg School for Communication which seeks to study the impact -- cultural, psychological,...
The Los Angeles Times last week had a story about a the Annenberg Studies on Computer Games, a new research group at the University of Southern California's Annenberg School for Communication which seeks to study the impact -- cultural, psychological,...
Jun
11
2004
dubious congrats
Finally, another way to survive modern life in the city. Express your frustration without causing a scene with these "Urban Asshole Cards" from Glarkware. Now you can politely educate those inconsiderate numbskulls among us who don't quite "get it," talking...
Finally, another way to survive modern life in the city. Express your frustration without causing a scene with these "Urban Asshole Cards" from Glarkware. Now you can politely educate those inconsiderate numbskulls among us who don't quite "get it," talking...
Jun
10
2004
old, sweet song
AP reports that music legend Ray Charles died today, at the age of 73. It's a sad day. ("Musician Ray Charles Dies at 73" - 06/10/04) In public appearances, Charles always seemed like an upbeat, good-spirited guy, and I loved...
AP reports that music legend Ray Charles died today, at the age of 73. It's a sad day. ("Musician Ray Charles Dies at 73" - 06/10/04) In public appearances, Charles always seemed like an upbeat, good-spirited guy, and I loved...
Jun
6
2004
mmm ... cary grant
I'm catching up on back reading this afternoon, and found a review by Washington Post style columnist Tom Shales of a Cary Grant documentary that ran on Turner Classic Movies this past Tuesday. Now I'm wishing I'd set the TiVo...
I'm catching up on back reading this afternoon, and found a review by Washington Post style columnist Tom Shales of a Cary Grant documentary that ran on Turner Classic Movies this past Tuesday. Now I'm wishing I'd set the TiVo...
Jun
4
2004
title sequence
Following on yesterday's post, this month's issue of Wired has a story about Kyle Cooper, known for creating inventive movie title sequences. ("The Dark Genius of Kyle Cooper" - June 2004) Cooper, 41, specializes in crafting title sequences - the...
Following on yesterday's post, this month's issue of Wired has a story about Kyle Cooper, known for creating inventive movie title sequences. ("The Dark Genius of Kyle Cooper" - June 2004) Cooper, 41, specializes in crafting title sequences - the...
May
28
2004
office angst
Last night, Rob and I had an unintentional "office angst" movie night: an episode of the BBC "comedy" The Office, followed by the last hour of the film Clockwatchers (we'd started watching it a few weeks earlier). In both movies,...
Last night, Rob and I had an unintentional "office angst" movie night: an episode of the BBC "comedy" The Office, followed by the last hour of the film Clockwatchers (we'd started watching it a few weeks earlier). In both movies,...
May
21
2004
word of the day: maffick
maffick \MAFF-ik\ - verb. : to celebrate with boisterous rejoicing and hilarious behavior (from m-w.com) See also: • celebrate (m-w.com) • commencement (georgetown.edu)...
maffick \MAFF-ik\ - verb. : to celebrate with boisterous rejoicing and hilarious behavior (from m-w.com) See also: • celebrate (m-w.com) • commencement (georgetown.edu)...
May
20
2004
screen on the green
This summer's "Screen on the Green" schedule is out. For newbies and out-of-towners, "Screen on the Green" is a series of outdoor film screenings, with movies projected on a large screen near the Washington Monument, on the National Mall. My...
This summer's "Screen on the Green" schedule is out. For newbies and out-of-towners, "Screen on the Green" is a series of outdoor film screenings, with movies projected on a large screen near the Washington Monument, on the National Mall. My...
Apr
28
2004
gunsanity
Am I the only one who thinks this is a total recipe for disaster? The latest stroke of brilliance by the Arizona State Legislature: The House approved a bill Wednesday to make it legal to take guns in bars and...
Am I the only one who thinks this is a total recipe for disaster? The latest stroke of brilliance by the Arizona State Legislature: The House approved a bill Wednesday to make it legal to take guns in bars and...
Apr
25
2004
contributions of women
I ran across an interesting factoid this evening while doing research for my paper. According to a report on opensecrets.org, a campaign finance Web site sponsored by the Center for Responsive Politics, while women are contributing to the George W....
I ran across an interesting factoid this evening while doing research for my paper. According to a report on opensecrets.org, a campaign finance Web site sponsored by the Center for Responsive Politics, while women are contributing to the George W....
personal pantone color
Pantone has a "colorstrology" Birthday Color feature. Look up your birthdate and see "your" color. Mine, apparently, is "Slate Rose," and my personality traits are "dynamic," "dramatic" and "clever." Its description of me: You have a convincing and dramatic nature....
Pantone has a "colorstrology" Birthday Color feature. Look up your birthdate and see "your" color. Mine, apparently, is "Slate Rose," and my personality traits are "dynamic," "dramatic" and "clever." Its description of me: You have a convincing and dramatic nature....
selling a touchy subject
Today's New York Times has a story about the heaven/hell quandary that Viagra, Levitra and Cialis pose for Madison Avenue advertising executives. The drug companies have tons of money that they're eager to spend to promote their products ... but...
Today's New York Times has a story about the heaven/hell quandary that Viagra, Levitra and Cialis pose for Madison Avenue advertising executives. The drug companies have tons of money that they're eager to spend to promote their products ... but...
Apr
24
2004
wafer watch
With the apparent philosophical split between presidential hopeful John Kerry and the Catholic church on the issue of abortion, the press has put Kerry on a kind of "wafer watch," to use the words of columnist Ellen Goodman, waiting to...
With the apparent philosophical split between presidential hopeful John Kerry and the Catholic church on the issue of abortion, the press has put Kerry on a kind of "wafer watch," to use the words of columnist Ellen Goodman, waiting to...
Apr
13
2004
shilling for a song
I tend to despise jingles that appropriate popular songs and change the lyrics. The discontinuity between the lyrics I know and the revised lyrics I hate only conspires to get the tune stuck in my head for hours at a...
I tend to despise jingles that appropriate popular songs and change the lyrics. The discontinuity between the lyrics I know and the revised lyrics I hate only conspires to get the tune stuck in my head for hours at a...
Apr
12
2004
the plot thickens. or something.
I remember that when I was in high school, getting into The Right College was a kind of science -- almost a game -- with applicants required to have the Perfect Resume, its precise formulation known only by the all-powerful...
I remember that when I was in high school, getting into The Right College was a kind of science -- almost a game -- with applicants required to have the Perfect Resume, its precise formulation known only by the all-powerful...
Apr
7
2004
not a peep out of you
Every holiday seems to have its trademark candies. For Christmas, it's candy canes and peanut brittle (among other things). For Valentine's Day, it's conversation hearts and chocolates. For Easter, it's chocolate bunnies, jelly beans and Peeps. Peeps are those brightly-colored...
Every holiday seems to have its trademark candies. For Christmas, it's candy canes and peanut brittle (among other things). For Valentine's Day, it's conversation hearts and chocolates. For Easter, it's chocolate bunnies, jelly beans and Peeps. Peeps are those brightly-colored...
Apr
6
2004
i believe you have my stapler
I'm flipping through a gargantuan catalog, seeking office supplies to outfit my cube. And it's utter insanity. First stop: pens. The section is sixty-five pages long. I think it contains just about every pen ever made. It's obscene. Granted, this...
I'm flipping through a gargantuan catalog, seeking office supplies to outfit my cube. And it's utter insanity. First stop: pens. The section is sixty-five pages long. I think it contains just about every pen ever made. It's obscene. Granted, this...
Apr
3
2004
jesus, warrior prince?
The New York Times' "Week in Review" has a curious story about an evolving view of Jesus-as-vengeful-redeemer. Rather than the "loving shepherd" who will lead believers to heaven, some modern depictions of Jesus portray him as an angry judge who...
The New York Times' "Week in Review" has a curious story about an evolving view of Jesus-as-vengeful-redeemer. Rather than the "loving shepherd" who will lead believers to heaven, some modern depictions of Jesus portray him as an angry judge who...
wtf?
Warren Ellis just blogged a British car commercial (MPEG) that's just so wrong that I had to watch it a couple times just to make sure I saw what I thought I saw. The ad is apparently for the Ford...
Warren Ellis just blogged a British car commercial (MPEG) that's just so wrong that I had to watch it a couple times just to make sure I saw what I thought I saw. The ad is apparently for the Ford...
Mar
28
2004
word of the day: predatory satiation
A story in today's Washington Post warns of the upcoming once-every-17-years cicada mating season, anticipated to begin within the next few weeks. Near the end of the article, the reporter writes about the insects' defense mechanism: "predatory satiation" -- a...
A story in today's Washington Post warns of the upcoming once-every-17-years cicada mating season, anticipated to begin within the next few weeks. Near the end of the article, the reporter writes about the insects' defense mechanism: "predatory satiation" -- a...
Mar
21
2004
mr. blue sky
I saw Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind on Friday night with Rob and Dari, and I'm still sifting through my myriad reactions to the film. I can say fairly easily that I liked the film, and that I thought...
I saw Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind on Friday night with Rob and Dari, and I'm still sifting through my myriad reactions to the film. I can say fairly easily that I liked the film, and that I thought...
Mar
18
2004
apostrophe
Grammar lesson of the day from an angry flower: "Bob's Quick Guide to the Apostrophe, You Idiots" The copy editor / grammar geek in me shares his pain. (Thanks to Shawn for the link.)...
Grammar lesson of the day from an angry flower: "Bob's Quick Guide to the Apostrophe, You Idiots" The copy editor / grammar geek in me shares his pain. (Thanks to Shawn for the link.)...
Mar
16
2004
staggered start
I've had some problems of late with my DVR recording all but the very end of some television shows. I'd chalked it up to my TiVo clone just being flaky, until I read that the networks are doing it on...
I've had some problems of late with my DVR recording all but the very end of some television shows. I'd chalked it up to my TiVo clone just being flaky, until I read that the networks are doing it on...
naptime over
In recent years I've often jokingly chided myself for not fully appreciating naptime when I had it in pre-school and kindergarten. Young schoolkids in some Maryland school districts may not be able to appreciate it for much longer. The Washington...
In recent years I've often jokingly chided myself for not fully appreciating naptime when I had it in pre-school and kindergarten. Young schoolkids in some Maryland school districts may not be able to appreciate it for much longer. The Washington...
in search of a name
There's so much baggage wrapped up in the idea of a "name." Will it embody the personality of the person or thing the name identifies? Does it portend good or bad things ahead? What does a name say about the...
There's so much baggage wrapped up in the idea of a "name." Will it embody the personality of the person or thing the name identifies? Does it portend good or bad things ahead? What does a name say about the...
geekery gone "cool"
Move over, metrosexuals. The "technosexual" may be the next hot thing. The technosexual is essentially the style-conscious metrosexual, but with a certain geeky obsessiveness about electronics and gadgetry. (AlterNet: "Enter the Technosexual" - 03/08/04) "With metrosexuality, it's about style, fashion,...
Move over, metrosexuals. The "technosexual" may be the next hot thing. The technosexual is essentially the style-conscious metrosexual, but with a certain geeky obsessiveness about electronics and gadgetry. (AlterNet: "Enter the Technosexual" - 03/08/04) "With metrosexuality, it's about style, fashion,...
Mar
15
2004
bunny brilliance
Because it's too good not to share: The Exorcist in 30 Seconds (and Re-enacted by Bunnies) (The movie requires the free Macromedia Flash plug-in.) (Thanks to Dari and Shawn for the link.)...
Because it's too good not to share: The Exorcist in 30 Seconds (and Re-enacted by Bunnies) (The movie requires the free Macromedia Flash plug-in.) (Thanks to Dari and Shawn for the link.)...
Mar
5
2004
calling all survivor fans
One of my classmates is doing his thesis on Survivor and reality television, and, as part of his research, is conducting a survey of Survivor viewers about their responses to the show. I'm doing my thesis on the reality TV...
One of my classmates is doing his thesis on Survivor and reality television, and, as part of his research, is conducting a survey of Survivor viewers about their responses to the show. I'm doing my thesis on the reality TV...
driving on 9 ... again
I'm on the verge of creating a new playlist of songs that are so catchy they're like crack, beckoning you to play them over and over and OVER again. Candidates for said playlist, based on today's music rotation (links go...
I'm on the verge of creating a new playlist of songs that are so catchy they're like crack, beckoning you to play them over and over and OVER again. Candidates for said playlist, based on today's music rotation (links go...
Mar
3
2004
all in the name
My coworkers and I have turned our iTunes library titles into a form of social commentary and "silent" protest. iTunes allows users on the same subnet to listen to music from each others' music libraries. In their preferences, users can...
My coworkers and I have turned our iTunes library titles into a form of social commentary and "silent" protest. iTunes allows users on the same subnet to listen to music from each others' music libraries. In their preferences, users can...
Mar
1
2004
bill wuz robbed
I didn't get to watch the Oscars last night because I was on my way back from New York (but I TiVo'ed it!). However, walking from the bus drop-off spot at McPherson Square to my car at GW's University Garage...
I didn't get to watch the Oscars last night because I was on my way back from New York (but I TiVo'ed it!). However, walking from the bus drop-off spot at McPherson Square to my car at GW's University Garage...
Feb
29
2004
lost destinations
Riding the subway back from City Hall, I noticed that the train passed what appeared to be one of the New York subway system's fabled "ghost stations" -- subway stations that, for whatever reason, have been shut down and closed...
Riding the subway back from City Hall, I noticed that the train passed what appeared to be one of the New York subway system's fabled "ghost stations" -- subway stations that, for whatever reason, have been shut down and closed...
Feb
27
2004
can't stop the beat
Dari pointed out that a copy of the video for Danish duo Junior Senior's dance song "Move Your Feet" is hosted at design site Veer.com. The song alone has the amazing ability to worm its way into your head and...
Dari pointed out that a copy of the video for Danish duo Junior Senior's dance song "Move Your Feet" is hosted at design site Veer.com. The song alone has the amazing ability to worm its way into your head and...
Feb
18
2004
the mouse and the muppets
Kermit and Miss Piggy live in the Mouse's house now. AP reports that Disney has purchased the Muppets characters from Jim Henson Co. (The deal does not include the Sesame Street characters, such as Big Bird and Bert and Ernie,...
Kermit and Miss Piggy live in the Mouse's house now. AP reports that Disney has purchased the Muppets characters from Jim Henson Co. (The deal does not include the Sesame Street characters, such as Big Bird and Bert and Ernie,...
Feb
15
2004
winding down ... and up
I'm getting way too emotionally involved in the final episodes of Sex and the City. I've been a fan of the show for the past few years, and through HBO airings, re-airings and DVDs, I've seen just about every episode....
I'm getting way too emotionally involved in the final episodes of Sex and the City. I've been a fan of the show for the past few years, and through HBO airings, re-airings and DVDs, I've seen just about every episode....
Feb
12
2004
fun with language
Here's a wonderful timesuck: wordorigins.org. The site offers a growing list of words and phrases, their "conventional wisdom" origin stories and their real etymology. Clicking through the site and reading the various write-ups is a lot of fun for a...
Here's a wonderful timesuck: wordorigins.org. The site offers a growing list of words and phrases, their "conventional wisdom" origin stories and their real etymology. Clicking through the site and reading the various write-ups is a lot of fun for a...
splitsville
After some 43 years together, Mattel announced today that Ken and Barbie have "decided to spend some time apart." (CNN: "It's Splitsville for Barbie and Ken" - 02/12/04) The former couple will "always remain the best of friends." Barbie's headed...
After some 43 years together, Mattel announced today that Ken and Barbie have "decided to spend some time apart." (CNN: "It's Splitsville for Barbie and Ken" - 02/12/04) The former couple will "always remain the best of friends." Barbie's headed...
Feb
11
2004
geek alert
The folks at Lucasfilm just announced that the original Star Wars trilogy (Star Wars, Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi) will be released as a 4-disc box set on Sept. 21 (U.S. and Canada). The collection will feature...
The folks at Lucasfilm just announced that the original Star Wars trilogy (Star Wars, Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi) will be released as a 4-disc box set on Sept. 21 (U.S. and Canada). The collection will feature...
Feb
9
2004
ennui: the playlist
Perpetuating the mood of the day, I've put together a partial playlist of nearly 2 hours worth of ennui-ridden, ennui-evoking or ennui-fighting tunes, culled from my iTunes library. Enjoy. Or something. (Links point to the iTunes Music Store, in case...
Perpetuating the mood of the day, I've put together a partial playlist of nearly 2 hours worth of ennui-ridden, ennui-evoking or ennui-fighting tunes, culled from my iTunes library. Enjoy. Or something. (Links point to the iTunes Music Store, in case...
word of the day: ennui
ennui ("än-'wE) - noun. French, from Old French enui annoyance, from enuier to annoy; a feeling of weariness and dissatisfaction : BOREDOM (from m-w.com) More definitions: • HyperDictionary.com • TheFreeDictionary.com (with literary examples) See also: • Film: Ghost World (2000)...
ennui ("än-'wE) - noun. French, from Old French enui annoyance, from enuier to annoy; a feeling of weariness and dissatisfaction : BOREDOM (from m-w.com) More definitions: • HyperDictionary.com • TheFreeDictionary.com (with literary examples) See also: • Film: Ghost World (2000)...
Feb
2
2004
society of the spectacle
For anyone who was living under a rock and missed all the hype and hoo-ra-ra, yesterday was Super Bowl Sunday. Everybody else has been talking about it. I might as well throw my two cents in, a day or so...
For anyone who was living under a rock and missed all the hype and hoo-ra-ra, yesterday was Super Bowl Sunday. Everybody else has been talking about it. I might as well throw my two cents in, a day or so...
Jan
26
2004
animated
Poking around the Pixar Web site, I found a promo for a new animated short in the works, Boundin'. The "sneak peek" they offer makes me wish they'd put the whole thing on line. I know the short is about...
Poking around the Pixar Web site, I found a promo for a new animated short in the works, Boundin'. The "sneak peek" they offer makes me wish they'd put the whole thing on line. I know the short is about...
Jan
24
2004
in passing
Yesterday marked another sad passing of a trademark children's television icon. Bob Keeshan, perhaps better known as "Captain Kangaroo," died yesterday at the age of 76 after a long illness. The television program ran for 30 years, from 1955 to...
Yesterday marked another sad passing of a trademark children's television icon. Bob Keeshan, perhaps better known as "Captain Kangaroo," died yesterday at the age of 76 after a long illness. The television program ran for 30 years, from 1955 to...
Jan
22
2004
what's with the burberry?
It's everywhere. I see it on the subway. On the sidewalks. In speeding cars. In crowded lunch spots. At least a third of the people I see every day, it seems, is wearing that trademark Burberry plaid. If it's not...
It's everywhere. I see it on the subway. On the sidewalks. In speeding cars. In crowded lunch spots. At least a third of the people I see every day, it seems, is wearing that trademark Burberry plaid. If it's not...
Jan
8
2004
man among men
I'm a Bruce Campbell fangirl. And I don't know that I can fully explain why. He's a B-movie cult hero -- certainly not an "important" actor. But he has a certain level of manic energy, and the ability to play...
I'm a Bruce Campbell fangirl. And I don't know that I can fully explain why. He's a B-movie cult hero -- certainly not an "important" actor. But he has a certain level of manic energy, and the ability to play...
Dec
31
2003
i shall call you ... minipod
Rumors are circulating that Apple is getting set to unveil a new, low-end iPod next month. These new iPods would be physically smaller than the existing iPod, hold 2GB-4GB of data and cost in the neighborhood of $100-200. (MacRumors.com: "Mini...
Rumors are circulating that Apple is getting set to unveil a new, low-end iPod next month. These new iPods would be physically smaller than the existing iPod, hold 2GB-4GB of data and cost in the neighborhood of $100-200. (MacRumors.com: "Mini...
Dec
25
2003
just say no to fruitcake
This is a couple days old, but I'm posting it anyway because it amuses me. A recent Associated Press story advised air travelers to not pack, among other things, fruitcake. ("Fliers get new guides for checked baggage" - 12/20/03) Books...
This is a couple days old, but I'm posting it anyway because it amuses me. A recent Associated Press story advised air travelers to not pack, among other things, fruitcake. ("Fliers get new guides for checked baggage" - 12/20/03) Books...
Dec
23
2003
under construction
Googling for something else, I found an amusing site listing various Web site "under construction" graphics, with "translations" of what they mean. If writing a simple web page is so difficult for me that I compare it to doing hard...
Googling for something else, I found an amusing site listing various Web site "under construction" graphics, with "translations" of what they mean. If writing a simple web page is so difficult for me that I compare it to doing hard...
cost of christmas
The price of Christmas can change a lot from year to year. For the past 19 years, PNC Bank has offered a special price index charting the changing cost of the Twelve Days of Christmas. "My True Love" would have...
The price of Christmas can change a lot from year to year. For the past 19 years, PNC Bank has offered a special price index charting the changing cost of the Twelve Days of Christmas. "My True Love" would have...
Dec
22
2003
top movies
The critics' "top ten" lists of 2003 movies have started coming out. The Chicago Sun-Times published Roger Ebert's list on Sunday. My favorite movies on the list: Lost in Translation (2) and Finding Nemo (4). His #10 movie, In America,...
The critics' "top ten" lists of 2003 movies have started coming out. The Chicago Sun-Times published Roger Ebert's list on Sunday. My favorite movies on the list: Lost in Translation (2) and Finding Nemo (4). His #10 movie, In America,...
t'isn't the season
My sister Ashley made a quick trip into Paper Warehouse for small Christmas gift bags ... and came out empty-handed. The store had moved all of its Christmas merchandise to one area of the store ... to make room for...
My sister Ashley made a quick trip into Paper Warehouse for small Christmas gift bags ... and came out empty-handed. The store had moved all of its Christmas merchandise to one area of the store ... to make room for...
Dec
18
2003
mistranslation
A Salon.com profile of "Far Side" cartoonist Gary Larson includes a curious anecdote about a "translation" of the comic. ("Brilliant Careers: Gary Larson" - 12/21/99) "The Far Side" was eventually picked up by 1,900 newspapers and translated into 17 languages....
A Salon.com profile of "Far Side" cartoonist Gary Larson includes a curious anecdote about a "translation" of the comic. ("Brilliant Careers: Gary Larson" - 12/21/99) "The Far Side" was eventually picked up by 1,900 newspapers and translated into 17 languages....
Dec
16
2003
virtual tension
Salon has an intriguing story about how an online newspaper/blog about the community of the game The Sims Online is stirring up trouble with the game's corporate owners. ("Raking muck in 'The Sims Online'" - 12/12/02) They say the situation...
Salon has an intriguing story about how an online newspaper/blog about the community of the game The Sims Online is stirring up trouble with the game's corporate owners. ("Raking muck in 'The Sims Online'" - 12/12/02) They say the situation...
Dec
7
2003
ap chinese
When I was in high school, I took a number of Advanced Placement classes. Do well enough in the class, and then well enough on the standardized test at the end of the semester, and you can earn college credit....
When I was in high school, I took a number of Advanced Placement classes. Do well enough in the class, and then well enough on the standardized test at the end of the semester, and you can earn college credit....
fashion slave
I know that I have a tendency to buy shoes that cause me pain. (You -- the brown high-heeled boots in the closet? I'm looking at you.) I think there's just something inherently masochistic about women's fashion. If you're not...
I know that I have a tendency to buy shoes that cause me pain. (You -- the brown high-heeled boots in the closet? I'm looking at you.) I think there's just something inherently masochistic about women's fashion. If you're not...
Dec
5
2003
bill murray film fest
The AFI Silver Theatre in Silver Spring is hosting a Bill Murray film festival this weekend, featuring 15 films in which Murray stars or has a memorable supporting role. (Select "Bill Murray: Found in Translation" from the "Film Series" drop-down.)...
The AFI Silver Theatre in Silver Spring is hosting a Bill Murray film festival this weekend, featuring 15 films in which Murray stars or has a memorable supporting role. (Select "Bill Murray: Found in Translation" from the "Film Series" drop-down.)...
Dec
3
2003
broken confidence
A few weeks ago, I saw a Washington Post story that described some of Jacqueline Kennedy's personal pathos following JFK's assassination, as revealed in the diaries, saved letters and personal recollections of her former priest and published in a recent...
A few weeks ago, I saw a Washington Post story that described some of Jacqueline Kennedy's personal pathos following JFK's assassination, as revealed in the diaries, saved letters and personal recollections of her former priest and published in a recent...
politics and religion
Further evidence, I guess, of our increasingly "red and blue" polarized country: A poll conducted by the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press found, among other things, that church attendance can be a strong indicator of party...
Further evidence, I guess, of our increasingly "red and blue" polarized country: A poll conducted by the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press found, among other things, that church attendance can be a strong indicator of party...
Nov
28
2003
porn, actually
We made a family matinee outing to see Love, Actually this afternoon. We picked the movie largely based on our familiarity with the actors and the various critical and word-of-mouth raves the film has received. Unfortunately, no one checked to...
We made a family matinee outing to see Love, Actually this afternoon. We picked the movie largely based on our familiarity with the actors and the various critical and word-of-mouth raves the film has received. Unfortunately, no one checked to...
Nov
25
2003
pre-bolshevik russia ... in vivid color
Back in 2001, the Library of Congress hosted "The Empire that Was Russia: The Prokudin-Gorskii Photographic Record Recreated," an exhibit featuring pre-Bolshevik Russian photographs that have been reproduced in full color. (The LoC site has a section about the now-closed...
Back in 2001, the Library of Congress hosted "The Empire that Was Russia: The Prokudin-Gorskii Photographic Record Recreated," an exhibit featuring pre-Bolshevik Russian photographs that have been reproduced in full color. (The LoC site has a section about the now-closed...
Nov
24
2003
recycled commercials
When agencies do work for their clients, be it a television spot or a Web site, they often create multiple concepts to present to the client. But once the client chooses a concept, the other concepts are often simply discarded....
When agencies do work for their clients, be it a television spot or a Web site, they often create multiple concepts to present to the client. But once the client chooses a concept, the other concepts are often simply discarded....
down with bollywood?
Apparently not everyone in India is a fan of the country's "Bollywood" film industry. The UK newspaper The Guardian reports that separatist groups in five northeast Indian states (near or bordering Burma) have condemned Bollywood for corrupting young minds with...
Apparently not everyone in India is a fan of the country's "Bollywood" film industry. The UK newspaper The Guardian reports that separatist groups in five northeast Indian states (near or bordering Burma) have condemned Bollywood for corrupting young minds with...
x-day 2003
For all you participants in online X-Men fandom, it's that time again... I'm just reposting the announcement: X-Day is a day of celebration for all fans of the Marvel X-Books, started in 1996. Usually celebrated on September 23rd, X-Day commemorates...
For all you participants in online X-Men fandom, it's that time again... I'm just reposting the announcement: X-Day is a day of celebration for all fans of the Marvel X-Books, started in 1996. Usually celebrated on September 23rd, X-Day commemorates...
Nov
19
2003
airspeed velocity
Bridgekeeper: "What is the airspeed velocity of an unladen swallow?" King Arthur: "What do you mean, an African or European swallow?" - From Monty Python and the Holy Grail Someone with far more free time and interest than I actually...
Bridgekeeper: "What is the airspeed velocity of an unladen swallow?" King Arthur: "What do you mean, an African or European swallow?" - From Monty Python and the Holy Grail Someone with far more free time and interest than I actually...
busted
Last week's The Onion struck on what might be some bloggers' worst nightmare: Mom finds your perhaps too-confessional weblog. ("Mom Finds Out About Blog" - 11/12/03) (Personally, I'm not overly worried about it ... mainly because my mom already knows...
Last week's The Onion struck on what might be some bloggers' worst nightmare: Mom finds your perhaps too-confessional weblog. ("Mom Finds Out About Blog" - 11/12/03) (Personally, I'm not overly worried about it ... mainly because my mom already knows...
Nov
17
2003
beatles for sale
There's another Beatles album coming out this week: Let It Be ... Naked. Contrary to popular myth, Let It Be wasn't the band's final album: It was recorded before Abbey Road, just not released until later. This new version of...
There's another Beatles album coming out this week: Let It Be ... Naked. Contrary to popular myth, Let It Be wasn't the band's final album: It was recorded before Abbey Road, just not released until later. This new version of...
fairy tale fallacy
I've been watching a rash of chick flicks lately. (Ewww ... That sounds nasty.) You know the kind -- Girl and Boy Meet Cute (TM Ebert), but some contrivance keeps them apart until the very end of the film, when,...
I've been watching a rash of chick flicks lately. (Ewww ... That sounds nasty.) You know the kind -- Girl and Boy Meet Cute (TM Ebert), but some contrivance keeps them apart until the very end of the film, when,...
Nov
11
2003
shaping perception
Which carton of ice cream looks bigger -- the tub or the brick? Both containers hold the same amount of the sugary dessert, but the dimensions of the tub trick the eye and the mind into believing that it holds...
Which carton of ice cream looks bigger -- the tub or the brick? Both containers hold the same amount of the sugary dessert, but the dimensions of the tub trick the eye and the mind into believing that it holds...
Nov
7
2003
life imitates art imitates life ... redux
Remember that episode of The Simpsons where Homer grows a cash crop of "tomacco," an addictive tomato/tobacco hybrid? An Oregon man grafted together a tomato plant with a tobacco plant and produced the real thing. (Wired: "'Simpsons' plant seeds of...
Remember that episode of The Simpsons where Homer grows a cash crop of "tomacco," an addictive tomato/tobacco hybrid? An Oregon man grafted together a tomato plant with a tobacco plant and produced the real thing. (Wired: "'Simpsons' plant seeds of...
Nov
5
2003
ben folds redux
I saw Ben Folds in concert on Saturday night, here at GW's Smith Center. (I know I just saw him play in Richmond back in April, but if he's playing in my own "backyard," how can I turn down the...
I saw Ben Folds in concert on Saturday night, here at GW's Smith Center. (I know I just saw him play in Richmond back in April, but if he's playing in my own "backyard," how can I turn down the...
Nov
3
2003
catholic (tm)
Does the Vatican own the word "Catholic"? Slate had an interesting story last Friday about the varied usage of the word "catholic" with regard to religion. ("'Property of Rome'?" - 10/31/03) The article was prompted by the recent case of...
Does the Vatican own the word "Catholic"? Slate had an interesting story last Friday about the varied usage of the word "catholic" with regard to religion. ("'Property of Rome'?" - 10/31/03) The article was prompted by the recent case of...
Nov
2
2003
movie logic
I have the Robert Redford/Brad Pitt movie Spygame on in the background while I work on a midterm for class. There's a glaring Washington, DC, geographic error at the very beginning of the film. As the opening credits roll, Redford...
I have the Robert Redford/Brad Pitt movie Spygame on in the background while I work on a midterm for class. There's a glaring Washington, DC, geographic error at the very beginning of the film. As the opening credits roll, Redford...
Oct
31
2003
not quite 'anything goes'
The Simpsons the Fox cash cow that, for years, has gotten away with jokes and snide remarks at its corporate masters' expense, apparently isn't totally free to do as it wishes. The Associated Press reports that Fox wasn't very happy...
The Simpsons the Fox cash cow that, for years, has gotten away with jokes and snide remarks at its corporate masters' expense, apparently isn't totally free to do as it wishes. The Associated Press reports that Fox wasn't very happy...
Oct
26
2003
moon watch
The Washington Post last week had an article about the curious case of the watch Buzz Aldrin wore on the moon back in 1969. ("Moon Watch Resurfaces In Court" - 10/17/03) The Omega Speedmaster Professional Chronograph was lost 30 years...
The Washington Post last week had an article about the curious case of the watch Buzz Aldrin wore on the moon back in 1969. ("Moon Watch Resurfaces In Court" - 10/17/03) The Omega Speedmaster Professional Chronograph was lost 30 years...
moving on
Newsweek has a poignant essay this week about starting over, written by a 93-year-old man whose wife of 67 years recently died of leukemia. ("My Turn: How Do I Move On Without My Soulmate?" - 10/27/03) She is with me...
Newsweek has a poignant essay this week about starting over, written by a 93-year-old man whose wife of 67 years recently died of leukemia. ("My Turn: How Do I Move On Without My Soulmate?" - 10/27/03) She is with me...
tivo substitute
I've been toying with the idea of purchasing a TiVo for some time. The device, which, like other DVRs, offers a user-friendly way to automatically record television programs, has had something of a cult-like following for a couple years now....
I've been toying with the idea of purchasing a TiVo for some time. The device, which, like other DVRs, offers a user-friendly way to automatically record television programs, has had something of a cult-like following for a couple years now....
Oct
23
2003
body-conscious boys
Much has been made of the issue of female body image, but I think that only within the last few years has any serious attention been paid to male body image issues. Yesterday's Washington Post included an interesting article on...
Much has been made of the issue of female body image, but I think that only within the last few years has any serious attention been paid to male body image issues. Yesterday's Washington Post included an interesting article on...
Oct
21
2003
the show's the same ... but the soundtrack isn't
Wired reports that despite the runaway success of television shows being released in DVD format, television studios are running into an unexpected hurdle when preparing series for DVD release: music licensing costs. ("TV on DVD: What's the Difference?" - 10/19/03)...
Wired reports that despite the runaway success of television shows being released in DVD format, television studios are running into an unexpected hurdle when preparing series for DVD release: music licensing costs. ("TV on DVD: What's the Difference?" - 10/19/03)...
Oct
20
2003
darko
I saw the strange movie Donnie Darko this weekend at Visions with friends. It's a very dark, rather unclassifiable film -- largely overlooked when it was first released in October 2001 -- about a teenage boy who, guided by a...
I saw the strange movie Donnie Darko this weekend at Visions with friends. It's a very dark, rather unclassifiable film -- largely overlooked when it was first released in October 2001 -- about a teenage boy who, guided by a...
fiscal state of public broadcasting
Last month, the Washington Post ran a story about the sad financial state of public television. ("Public TV Learns to Do Without" - 09/15/03) Locally, WHUT, the PBS affiliate run by Howard University, has suffered major troubles with aging equipment...
Last month, the Washington Post ran a story about the sad financial state of public television. ("Public TV Learns to Do Without" - 09/15/03) Locally, WHUT, the PBS affiliate run by Howard University, has suffered major troubles with aging equipment...
Oct
13
2003
broadcast tv: now with expletives
Will the f-word be creeping into more broadcast television programming soon? The FCC, which received several complaints after U2 singer Bono offhandedly used the f-word during the Golden Globe Awards, recently ruled that Bono's use of the word did not...
Will the f-word be creeping into more broadcast television programming soon? The FCC, which received several complaints after U2 singer Bono offhandedly used the f-word during the Golden Globe Awards, recently ruled that Bono's use of the word did not...
more holes than a 'batman' plot
Salon comic strip artist Tom Tomorrow has a funny take on the whole White Hosue/CIA leak scandal in today's edition of "This Modern World." (Thanks to Dari for the link.)...
Salon comic strip artist Tom Tomorrow has a funny take on the whole White Hosue/CIA leak scandal in today's edition of "This Modern World." (Thanks to Dari for the link.)...
Oct
10
2003
foiled again
I really wonder if all these copy-protection schemes being tested by the record industry are really worth all the trouble. Early attempts at copy protection, tested abroad, produced CDs that consumers found were incompatible with some players, and which could...
I really wonder if all these copy-protection schemes being tested by the record industry are really worth all the trouble. Early attempts at copy protection, tested abroad, produced CDs that consumers found were incompatible with some players, and which could...
itunes for windows
AppleInsider.com reports that Apple will announce iTunes (and the iTunes Music Service) for Windows next Thursday, Oct. 16, in San Francisco. ("Apple to Host Music Media Event Next Week" - 10/09/03) Over the past couple of months, Apple has quietly...
AppleInsider.com reports that Apple will announce iTunes (and the iTunes Music Service) for Windows next Thursday, Oct. 16, in San Francisco. ("Apple to Host Music Media Event Next Week" - 10/09/03) Over the past couple of months, Apple has quietly...
Oct
1
2003
word of the day: frog-march
The Washington Post did a whole story today about the colorful term "frog-march," used recently by former ambassador Joseph C. Wilson IV regarding the person he suspects leaked his wife's identity and occupation to several reporters: "At the end of...
The Washington Post did a whole story today about the colorful term "frog-march," used recently by former ambassador Joseph C. Wilson IV regarding the person he suspects leaked his wife's identity and occupation to several reporters: "At the end of...
Sep
29
2003
word of the day: suac
SUAC v. Acronym for "Shut Up and Color". How Marketing and Engineering departments often think (or wish) design should be done. The above acronym/definition comes from usability guru Jeffrey Veen, in an Apr. 25 post about corporate jargon. Rob saw...
SUAC v. Acronym for "Shut Up and Color". How Marketing and Engineering departments often think (or wish) design should be done. The above acronym/definition comes from usability guru Jeffrey Veen, in an Apr. 25 post about corporate jargon. Rob saw...
comfort food
Researchers have found a physiological reason why humans crave "comfort foods" in times of high stress, the Washington Post reports. ("Grasping Why We Reach for a Taste of Calm" - 09/29/03) Although researchers have had clues that there might be...
Researchers have found a physiological reason why humans crave "comfort foods" in times of high stress, the Washington Post reports. ("Grasping Why We Reach for a Taste of Calm" - 09/29/03) Although researchers have had clues that there might be...
Sep
24
2003
catholic consternation
This story in today's Washington Post infuriated me. ("Vatican May Limit Girls' Role in Mass" - 09/24/03) Under new rules being drafted by the Vatican to crack down on "abuses" in the Roman Catholic Mass, altar boys will be given...
This story in today's Washington Post infuriated me. ("Vatican May Limit Girls' Role in Mass" - 09/24/03) Under new rules being drafted by the Vatican to crack down on "abuses" in the Roman Catholic Mass, altar boys will be given...
Sep
21
2003
retail therapy
There's nothing like a disaster (or the threat thereof) to get people out and shopping. During the first orange alert, it was all about the duct tape. (I didn't join in on that particular madness.) I did participate in the...
There's nothing like a disaster (or the threat thereof) to get people out and shopping. During the first orange alert, it was all about the duct tape. (I didn't join in on that particular madness.) I did participate in the...
Sep
19
2003
avast
It's a bit late in the day to be bringing it up, but I'll mention it all the same. Today, September 19, once again marks the annual "Talk Like a Pirate Day." How does one commemorate this holiday? Quite simple...
It's a bit late in the day to be bringing it up, but I'll mention it all the same. Today, September 19, once again marks the annual "Talk Like a Pirate Day." How does one commemorate this holiday? Quite simple...
Sep
15
2003
geektastic
This Sunday's Fox Trot comic has a pretty geeky/techie punchline that I'm halfway ashamed to say I got ... and found funny. Check it out....
This Sunday's Fox Trot comic has a pretty geeky/techie punchline that I'm halfway ashamed to say I got ... and found funny. Check it out....
Sep
14
2003
digital transfer
George Hotelling, who, as mentioned earlier, was trying to sell a track he purchased via the iTunes Music store, posted an update about what happened with the sale, and how he finally ended up transferring the song to the new...
George Hotelling, who, as mentioned earlier, was trying to sell a track he purchased via the iTunes Music store, posted an update about what happened with the sale, and how he finally ended up transferring the song to the new...
pathfinder
There's a reason why cabbies are (usually) so good at finding their way around: The knowledge becomes, figuratively, "hard-wired" into their brains. A recent study at Brandeis University studied the ways in which a virtual taxi game affected study participants'...
There's a reason why cabbies are (usually) so good at finding their way around: The knowledge becomes, figuratively, "hard-wired" into their brains. A recent study at Brandeis University studied the ways in which a virtual taxi game affected study participants'...
double down
The end of this week brought a couple of notable entertainment deaths, those of actor John Ritter (on Thursday) and Johnny Cash (on Friday). (If you believe in the "rule of threes" when it comes to high-profile deaths, the trifecta...
The end of this week brought a couple of notable entertainment deaths, those of actor John Ritter (on Thursday) and Johnny Cash (on Friday). (If you believe in the "rule of threes" when it comes to high-profile deaths, the trifecta...
Sep
13
2003
lost
I went to see Lost in Translation with friends last night. The movie, starring Bill Murray and Scarlett Johannson, was wonderful, but its bittersweet, wistful tones remain with me. I think I need to see the film again to try...
I went to see Lost in Translation with friends last night. The movie, starring Bill Murray and Scarlett Johannson, was wonderful, but its bittersweet, wistful tones remain with me. I think I need to see the film again to try...
apple vs. ... apple
Apple Corps, better known as The Beatles' record company, is suing Apple Computer about the latter's successful iTunes Music Service and iPod MP3 player. The two companies have been fighting over trademark rights for decades, and came to a settlement...
Apple Corps, better known as The Beatles' record company, is suing Apple Computer about the latter's successful iTunes Music Service and iPod MP3 player. The two companies have been fighting over trademark rights for decades, and came to a settlement...
Sep
12
2003
ejected
The Washington Post reports that the new HBO reality show K Street, produced by George Clooney and Steven Soderbergh, has been banned from shooting in the U.S. Capitol and Senate office buildings. A memo recently circulated around the Senate reminding...
The Washington Post reports that the new HBO reality show K Street, produced by George Clooney and Steven Soderbergh, has been banned from shooting in the U.S. Capitol and Senate office buildings. A memo recently circulated around the Senate reminding...
Sep
9
2003
marital bliss
Salon's Heather Havrilesky has a fun assessment of the MTV show Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica, particularly glorying in the couple's constant bickering. ("Can this marriage be saved?" - 09/09/03) According to the reviewer, Simpson comes off like the spoiled, "me-me-me"...
Salon's Heather Havrilesky has a fun assessment of the MTV show Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica, particularly glorying in the couple's constant bickering. ("Can this marriage be saved?" - 09/09/03) According to the reviewer, Simpson comes off like the spoiled, "me-me-me"...
Sep
5
2003
more legal stuff
"nycfashiongirl," whom the RIAA has accused of music piracy, has enlisted lawyers to fight back. The Associated Press reports that her legal team plans to question the legitimacy -- and legality -- of the RIAA's efforts to track her. (Wired:...
"nycfashiongirl," whom the RIAA has accused of music piracy, has enlisted lawyers to fight back. The Associated Press reports that her legal team plans to question the legitimacy -- and legality -- of the RIAA's efforts to track her. (Wired:...
Sep
4
2003
fashion crimes
Last night, flipping through the channels, I happened upon Style Court, a new show on the Style Network. The show is part Judge Judy, part glam makeover, as people drag friends, significant others and family members into court to put...
Last night, flipping through the channels, I happened upon Style Court, a new show on the Style Network. The show is part Judge Judy, part glam makeover, as people drag friends, significant others and family members into court to put...
Sep
3
2003
selling digital music
In an interesting legal test, a Michigan man is selling a track he purchased from the iTunes Music Store on eBay. In a posting to his weblog, George Hotelling writes: Does the Right of First Sale Still Exist? I just...
In an interesting legal test, a Michigan man is selling a track he purchased from the iTunes Music Store on eBay. In a posting to his weblog, George Hotelling writes: Does the Right of First Sale Still Exist? I just...
online learning
Colleges and universities have been experimenting, to various degrees, with the concept of online learning for a few years. Now, in Arizona, the state is tentatively experimenting with "cyberschooling" at the grade-school level. (Twelve other states are experimenting with cyberschooling...
Colleges and universities have been experimenting, to various degrees, with the concept of online learning for a few years. Now, in Arizona, the state is tentatively experimenting with "cyberschooling" at the grade-school level. (Twelve other states are experimenting with cyberschooling...
Aug
30
2003
running to stand still
I'm folding laundry and doing various chores around the house to the tune of U2's 1987 album The Joshua Tree, and I'm struck once again by just how great this album is. It wasn't until a few years ago that...
I'm folding laundry and doing various chores around the house to the tune of U2's 1987 album The Joshua Tree, and I'm struck once again by just how great this album is. It wasn't until a few years ago that...
Aug
27
2003
happy birthday, dear ... speedo? ew.
Today's Los Angeles Times has a story celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Speedo bathing suit. ("At 75, still looking trim" - 08/27/03) At Pasadena's aquatics center, Ron Henderson, 54, of Monrovia, says he owns two Speedo briefs. "If you're...
Today's Los Angeles Times has a story celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Speedo bathing suit. ("At 75, still looking trim" - 08/27/03) At Pasadena's aquatics center, Ron Henderson, 54, of Monrovia, says he owns two Speedo briefs. "If you're...
Aug
20
2003
song of the moment
"I've been thinking 'bout catching a train Leave my phone machine by the radar range Hello it's me, I'm not at home If you'd like to reach me, leave me alone A change would do you good A change would...
"I've been thinking 'bout catching a train Leave my phone machine by the radar range Hello it's me, I'm not at home If you'd like to reach me, leave me alone A change would do you good A change would...
Aug
19
2003
wordplay
Today's Washington Post notes President Bush's first use of the word "combat" in referring to U.S. military activity in Iraq since his May 1 announcement of the end of "major combat operations." Ironically, it came during an interview with the...
Today's Washington Post notes President Bush's first use of the word "combat" in referring to U.S. military activity in Iraq since his May 1 announcement of the end of "major combat operations." Ironically, it came during an interview with the...
vaultkeepers
Salon has a story today about Hollywood video store clerks, who are increasingly valued by movie studio executives for their far more in-depth knowledge of movie history and lore, and for their "instincts" about what might be hot as a...
Salon has a story today about Hollywood video store clerks, who are increasingly valued by movie studio executives for their far more in-depth knowledge of movie history and lore, and for their "instincts" about what might be hot as a...
Aug
18
2003
go forth and multiply
The vast Swedish home goods empire that is IKEA is opening a new location near my former digs in Tempe, Ariz. -- the company's first Arizona location -- in Fall 2004. Currently, the closest IKEA location is San Diego, about...
The vast Swedish home goods empire that is IKEA is opening a new location near my former digs in Tempe, Ariz. -- the company's first Arizona location -- in Fall 2004. Currently, the closest IKEA location is San Diego, about...
olsen twins
I visited RollingStone.com this morning in search of a CD review, and caught sight of the print magazine's most recent cover story/photo -- of the Olsen twins, Mary-Kate and Ashley. For a Rolling Stone cover, it's really rather tame --...
I visited RollingStone.com this morning in search of a CD review, and caught sight of the print magazine's most recent cover story/photo -- of the Olsen twins, Mary-Kate and Ashley. For a Rolling Stone cover, it's really rather tame --...
Aug
17
2003
almost famous
I have a hankering to see the movie Almost Famous tonight. Two scenes from that film come to mind at the moment. The first is the semi-comical moment when Frances McDormand, the university professor mother of the story's aspiring rock-writer...
I have a hankering to see the movie Almost Famous tonight. Two scenes from that film come to mind at the moment. The first is the semi-comical moment when Frances McDormand, the university professor mother of the story's aspiring rock-writer...
Aug
16
2003
chihuahua = rat?
I know this happened over a week ago, but it still makes me giggle, and thus I have to post it here. From the Associated Press, by way of Yahoo!News ("Trained NYC Hawks Attack Chihuahua" - 08/06/03): Trained hawks employed...
I know this happened over a week ago, but it still makes me giggle, and thus I have to post it here. From the Associated Press, by way of Yahoo!News ("Trained NYC Hawks Attack Chihuahua" - 08/06/03): Trained hawks employed...
Aug
12
2003
community service
Today's Washington Post has a story about a new effort underway to commemorate September 11, 2001, through a national, annual day of community service. ("Groups Urge Day of Service to Mark Sept. 11" - 08/12/03) The organizing group, One Day's...
Today's Washington Post has a story about a new effort underway to commemorate September 11, 2001, through a national, annual day of community service. ("Groups Urge Day of Service to Mark Sept. 11" - 08/12/03) The organizing group, One Day's...
Aug
11
2003
travails of the coffee drinker
This essay on the "joys" of the Starbucks coffee run makes me so glad that I don't drink coffee. (WP: "One Tall Cappuccino Conundrum, to Go" - 08/11/03) Even in the best of circumstances, the espresso-drink maker, the barista, or...
This essay on the "joys" of the Starbucks coffee run makes me so glad that I don't drink coffee. (WP: "One Tall Cappuccino Conundrum, to Go" - 08/11/03) Even in the best of circumstances, the espresso-drink maker, the barista, or...
Aug
6
2003
no more sms divorces
The Associated Press reports that the government of Malaysia has moved to prohibit the use of electronic messages (voicemail, SMS, fax, e-mail) to initiate divorce proceedings. (usatoday.com: "Malaysia to change divorce-via-cell phone law" - 08/01/03) Under Islamic law, a husband...
The Associated Press reports that the government of Malaysia has moved to prohibit the use of electronic messages (voicemail, SMS, fax, e-mail) to initiate divorce proceedings. (usatoday.com: "Malaysia to change divorce-via-cell phone law" - 08/01/03) Under Islamic law, a husband...
Jul
28
2003
chill
I'm sitting on a couch at Common Grounds with the Powerbook and listening to good indie rock (the current playlist includes Travis and Wilco) over the coffehouse PA system. Common Grounds is one of those bonafide, independent community coffehouses, one...
I'm sitting on a couch at Common Grounds with the Powerbook and listening to good indie rock (the current playlist includes Travis and Wilco) over the coffehouse PA system. Common Grounds is one of those bonafide, independent community coffehouses, one...
dating perils
Salon ran a story last week about the dating travails of a female Episcopalian priest. ("So a priest walks into a bar" - 07/23/03) The personal hang-ups of some of the guys she runs into in the dating world are...
Salon ran a story last week about the dating travails of a female Episcopalian priest. ("So a priest walks into a bar" - 07/23/03) The personal hang-ups of some of the guys she runs into in the dating world are...
Jul
25
2003
mythic figures
Earlier this week, Salon ran a review of Robin Hood: A Mythic Biography by Stephen Knight, a book about the manner in which the Robin Hood myth has evolved over the centuries. ("Our man in tights" - 07/23/03) The book/review...
Earlier this week, Salon ran a review of Robin Hood: A Mythic Biography by Stephen Knight, a book about the manner in which the Robin Hood myth has evolved over the centuries. ("Our man in tights" - 07/23/03) The book/review...
Jul
22
2003
earth-friendly transportation
Sunday's Washington Post includes a story about how activists are trying a new means of re-educating consumers about conserving fuel and reducing pollution: "ticketing" SUV drivers and encouraging them to write to car companies asking for more fuel-efficient vehicles. ("Activists...
Sunday's Washington Post includes a story about how activists are trying a new means of re-educating consumers about conserving fuel and reducing pollution: "ticketing" SUV drivers and encouraging them to write to car companies asking for more fuel-efficient vehicles. ("Activists...
Jul
20
2003
spike on 'angel'
Spoiler Slayer reports that an apparently legit promo poster for next season's Angel has surfaced on eBay which gives Angel and Spike dual billing. While I normally won't link to auctions, this poster does give a hint that this season...
Spoiler Slayer reports that an apparently legit promo poster for next season's Angel has surfaced on eBay which gives Angel and Spike dual billing. While I normally won't link to auctions, this poster does give a hint that this season...
Jul
18
2003
ben folds
Ben Folds has a new EP, Speed Graphic, out this week. The CD features 5 new songs, including a fun cover of The Cure's "In Between Days." My other favorite song on the EP is "Wandering," with its reflective tone...
Ben Folds has a new EP, Speed Graphic, out this week. The CD features 5 new songs, including a fun cover of The Cure's "In Between Days." My other favorite song on the EP is "Wandering," with its reflective tone...
Jul
16
2003
fine
"Fine" is such a loaded word. On the surface, it's fairly innocuous, synonymous with "okay," "acceptable," or "within established parameters." But so often it means exactly the opposite. Depending on the situation and tone of voice, "fine" can mean any...
"Fine" is such a loaded word. On the surface, it's fairly innocuous, synonymous with "okay," "acceptable," or "within established parameters." But so often it means exactly the opposite. Depending on the situation and tone of voice, "fine" can mean any...
Jul
7
2003
addicted to multitasking
Yesterday's New York Times has an interesting story about people who are so accustomed to multi-tasking that they're practically addicted to it. ("The Lure of Data: Is It Addictive?" - 07/06/03) The ubiquity of technology in the lives of executives,...
Yesterday's New York Times has an interesting story about people who are so accustomed to multi-tasking that they're practically addicted to it. ("The Lure of Data: Is It Addictive?" - 07/06/03) The ubiquity of technology in the lives of executives,...
Jul
6
2003
exposed neuroses
I was scanning yes.azcentral.com's "Daily Pick" listing for a t-shirt I'd seen a couple weeks ago, and stumbled across a sort of disturbing, tongue-in-cheek line of women's t-shirts called "Neuroses." The shirts -- available in an array of styles and...
I was scanning yes.azcentral.com's "Daily Pick" listing for a t-shirt I'd seen a couple weeks ago, and stumbled across a sort of disturbing, tongue-in-cheek line of women's t-shirts called "Neuroses." The shirts -- available in an array of styles and...
Jul
1
2003
a different kind of souvenir
A month ago, the Washington Post's Travel section had a story about a different approach to arranging transportation when travelling in Europe: Order the car from the European manufacturing plant, drive it during your trip, and have it shipped back...
A month ago, the Washington Post's Travel section had a story about a different approach to arranging transportation when travelling in Europe: Order the car from the European manufacturing plant, drive it during your trip, and have it shipped back...
Jun
26
2003
princess di as superhero?
Britain's The Guardian has an opinion piece by Peter Milligan, writer of the Marvel Comics series X-Statix. ("Princess Diana, superhero" - 06/25/03) Milligan writes that Princess Diana, whom he's resurrected for the storyline "Di Another Day," fits in perfectly in...
Britain's The Guardian has an opinion piece by Peter Milligan, writer of the Marvel Comics series X-Statix. ("Princess Diana, superhero" - 06/25/03) Milligan writes that Princess Diana, whom he's resurrected for the storyline "Di Another Day," fits in perfectly in...
Jun
24
2003
another casualty of technology
Computers and the Internet have been blamed for the death (or impending demise) of any number of "traditional" offline customs and institutions. The handwritten letter. The post office. Ordinary patience. Grammar. And now: cursive handwriting. AP reports that third graders...
Computers and the Internet have been blamed for the death (or impending demise) of any number of "traditional" offline customs and institutions. The handwritten letter. The post office. Ordinary patience. Grammar. And now: cursive handwriting. AP reports that third graders...
Jun
21
2003
casting call
Nadia, a classmate at Georgetown, posted this announcement to the CCT listerv: I'm working this Saturday for Bunim Murray, the producers of the Real World. They are looking for cast members for the next season... so forget tackling the job...
Nadia, a classmate at Georgetown, posted this announcement to the CCT listerv: I'm working this Saturday for Bunim Murray, the producers of the Real World. They are looking for cast members for the next season... so forget tackling the job...
Jun
18
2003
the art of punditry
Wayne Slater offers a few basic tips in this month's Texas Monthly on how to be a good television/radio political pundit. ("How to Sound Smart on TV" - July 2003) In short: Don't worry too much about what they're going...
Wayne Slater offers a few basic tips in this month's Texas Monthly on how to be a good television/radio political pundit. ("How to Sound Smart on TV" - July 2003) In short: Don't worry too much about what they're going...
Jun
13
2003
the p2p debate
The Online NewsHour (Web site of PBS's The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer) has an interesting "debate" of sorts about music piracy and peer-to-peer networks (like Kazaa) between Internet law expert Lawrence Lessig and RIAA lawyer Matt Oppenheim, with both men...
The Online NewsHour (Web site of PBS's The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer) has an interesting "debate" of sorts about music piracy and peer-to-peer networks (like Kazaa) between Internet law expert Lawrence Lessig and RIAA lawyer Matt Oppenheim, with both men...
a different kind of father's day
Salon is approaching this weekend's Father's Day holiday a bit differently than other media outlets, republishing the writings of teens in juvenile detention in the San Francisco Bay area. ("'Man, Dad, you call yourself a man?'" - 06/13/03) The editor's...
Salon is approaching this weekend's Father's Day holiday a bit differently than other media outlets, republishing the writings of teens in juvenile detention in the San Francisco Bay area. ("'Man, Dad, you call yourself a man?'" - 06/13/03) The editor's...
Jun
12
2003
a new extreme
I guess there's an "extreme" version of everything these days. First, "extreme frisbee." Now, "extreme croquet." Salon has a quirky story about an extreme version of the normally "genteel" lawn game. ("Blood on the Lawn" - 05/30/03) Apparently, the sport...
I guess there's an "extreme" version of everything these days. First, "extreme frisbee." Now, "extreme croquet." Salon has a quirky story about an extreme version of the normally "genteel" lawn game. ("Blood on the Lawn" - 05/30/03) Apparently, the sport...
religion and politics
I've just found a new book to add to my summer reading list: God's Secretaries: The Making of the King James Bible, by Adam Nicholson. Aside from my general interest in historical/cultural stuff like this, it was this more political...
I've just found a new book to add to my summer reading list: God's Secretaries: The Making of the King James Bible, by Adam Nicholson. Aside from my general interest in historical/cultural stuff like this, it was this more political...
Jun
10
2003
it's all in your head
Forget fancy stuff like Zoloft or St. John's Wort. If you're depressed, a sugar pill very well might cure what ails you. Today's Washington Post reports that sugar pills were as -- or more effective than conventional remedies for depression....
Forget fancy stuff like Zoloft or St. John's Wort. If you're depressed, a sugar pill very well might cure what ails you. Today's Washington Post reports that sugar pills were as -- or more effective than conventional remedies for depression....
Jun
7
2003
mini a-go-go
I saw The Italian Job last weekend with Rob and Shawn. Overall, a pretty predictable, by-the-books, brainless summer movie -- but surprisingly enjoyable all the same. I left the theatre with a powerful desire to purchase a MINI Cooper. The...
I saw The Italian Job last weekend with Rob and Shawn. Overall, a pretty predictable, by-the-books, brainless summer movie -- but surprisingly enjoyable all the same. I left the theatre with a powerful desire to purchase a MINI Cooper. The...
Jun
5
2003
uh-oh, tivo
Wired reports that TiVo plans to start selling information about user viewing habits -- including down-to-the-second data about programs and commercials viewed -- to advertisers and broadcasters. ("TiVo to Sell User Viewing Data" - 06/02/03) Although the company plans to...
Wired reports that TiVo plans to start selling information about user viewing habits -- including down-to-the-second data about programs and commercials viewed -- to advertisers and broadcasters. ("TiVo to Sell User Viewing Data" - 06/02/03) Although the company plans to...
Jun
4
2003
chatter
FBI agents investigating online child pornography are getting a lesson in instant messaging from real authorities on the subject -- eighth grade girls. Today's Washington Post reports that the FBI is consulting with teens to learn the proper lingo and...
FBI agents investigating online child pornography are getting a lesson in instant messaging from real authorities on the subject -- eighth grade girls. Today's Washington Post reports that the FBI is consulting with teens to learn the proper lingo and...
Jun
3
2003
potty ratings
Singapore's Restaurant Association and Health Ministry are teaming up to offer ratings of the country's restrooms, on a five-star scale similar to that used for restaurants and hotels. (AP: "Singapore Plans Rating System for Toilets" - 06/02/03) Restrooms and toilets...
Singapore's Restaurant Association and Health Ministry are teaming up to offer ratings of the country's restrooms, on a five-star scale similar to that used for restaurants and hotels. (AP: "Singapore Plans Rating System for Toilets" - 06/02/03) Restrooms and toilets...
May
28
2003
playlist
What I'm listening to: "Wise Up" by Aimee Mann (from the "Magnolia" soundtrack)"Wild Horses" by The Sundays (from the CD "Blind")"A Letter to Elise" by The Cure (from the CD "Wish")"Turn My Way" by New Order (from the CD "Get...
What I'm listening to: "Wise Up" by Aimee Mann (from the "Magnolia" soundtrack)"Wild Horses" by The Sundays (from the CD "Blind")"A Letter to Elise" by The Cure (from the CD "Wish")"Turn My Way" by New Order (from the CD "Get...
May
24
2003
a question of protocol
If you are the intended recipient of what is almost certainly a friend's dreaded late-night "drunken phone call," yet miss the call, what are you expected to do? Call said friend back, or just be thankful that you didn't get...
If you are the intended recipient of what is almost certainly a friend's dreaded late-night "drunken phone call," yet miss the call, what are you expected to do? Call said friend back, or just be thankful that you didn't get...
May
23
2003
e-bore
The life of a tech-head is one slightly removed from "reality." We're the early adopters. We're the ones with the distaste for formality and varying anti-establishment tendencies. We're the ones who get inordinately amused by random Internet fads ("all your...
The life of a tech-head is one slightly removed from "reality." We're the early adopters. We're the ones with the distaste for formality and varying anti-establishment tendencies. We're the ones who get inordinately amused by random Internet fads ("all your...
May
16
2003
hacker cred
Someone did their research. Unlike so many movies about computers and hackers, The Matrix Reloaded apparently offers a far more realistic version of how hackers do what they do. In the scene where Trinity hacks a power grid, she uses...
Someone did their research. Unlike so many movies about computers and hackers, The Matrix Reloaded apparently offers a far more realistic version of how hackers do what they do. In the scene where Trinity hacks a power grid, she uses...
May
14
2003
did spike ruin 'buffy'?
Writer Jaime J. Weinman at Salon blames the show's decline on Spike's full-time addition to the cast in Season 4, arguing that focusing so heavily on the "cool" guy in the group took the show away from one of its...
Writer Jaime J. Weinman at Salon blames the show's decline on Spike's full-time addition to the cast in Season 4, arguing that focusing so heavily on the "cool" guy in the group took the show away from one of its...
'buffy' gear
Fox is auctioning off various costumes and props used in the show Buffy: The Vampire Slayer on eBay. Step up right now, and you, too, can own the ensemble worn by Sarah Michelle Gellar in the episode Lies My Parents...
Fox is auctioning off various costumes and props used in the show Buffy: The Vampire Slayer on eBay. Step up right now, and you, too, can own the ensemble worn by Sarah Michelle Gellar in the episode Lies My Parents...
May
12
2003
bonding through pop culture
Slate's David Plotz offers some suggestions of what can be done in Iraq to help unify the populace and promote stability. ("Can't the Iraqis All Just Get Along?" - 05/09/03) A good, surprisingly simple suggestion: unity through pop culture. Sports...
Slate's David Plotz offers some suggestions of what can be done in Iraq to help unify the populace and promote stability. ("Can't the Iraqis All Just Get Along?" - 05/09/03) A good, surprisingly simple suggestion: unity through pop culture. Sports...
May
10
2003
compilations
I'm kind of a firm believer in the "what music you listen to says a lot about you" theory. It's especially come into play since the release of iTunes 4, which allows people to share their music libraries and playlists...
I'm kind of a firm believer in the "what music you listen to says a lot about you" theory. It's especially come into play since the release of iTunes 4, which allows people to share their music libraries and playlists...
May
9
2003
funnyman
mediabistro.com has a fun interview with Stephen Colbert, "senior correspondent" for The Daily Show, talking about his career (little-known fact: he had a brief stint as correspondent for Good Morning America) and the behind-the-scenes workings on The Daily Show. ("So...
mediabistro.com has a fun interview with Stephen Colbert, "senior correspondent" for The Daily Show, talking about his career (little-known fact: he had a brief stint as correspondent for Good Morning America) and the behind-the-scenes workings on The Daily Show. ("So...
typing monkeys
Contrary to the popular saying, an infinite number of typing monkeys probably won't eventually produce Shakespearean writings. Or at least, they didn't in one case, involving 6 monkeys locked in a room with a computer. (Wired: "Monkeys Don't Write Shakespeare"...
Contrary to the popular saying, an infinite number of typing monkeys probably won't eventually produce Shakespearean writings. Or at least, they didn't in one case, involving 6 monkeys locked in a room with a computer. (Wired: "Monkeys Don't Write Shakespeare"...
extended adolescence
An interesting new study out of the University of Chicago: The law may imply that you're a grown-up when you're old enough to vote, serve in the military or drink legally. But most Americans really think adulthood begins at age...
An interesting new study out of the University of Chicago: The law may imply that you're a grown-up when you're old enough to vote, serve in the military or drink legally. But most Americans really think adulthood begins at age...
May
8
2003
playlist
What I'm listening to: "Sad Sad World" by Sheryl Crow (from the "Everyday Is a Winding Road" single)"A Letter to Elise" by The Cure (from the CD Wish)"Brick" by Ben Folds Five (from the CD Whatever & Ever Amen)"It Doesn't...
What I'm listening to: "Sad Sad World" by Sheryl Crow (from the "Everyday Is a Winding Road" single)"A Letter to Elise" by The Cure (from the CD Wish)"Brick" by Ben Folds Five (from the CD Whatever & Ever Amen)"It Doesn't...
May
2
2003
loyalty
Yesterday was apparently Loyalty Day. In honor of the occasion, I give you this passage from Catch-22. Almost overnight the Glorious Loyalty Oath Crusade was in full flower, and Captain Black was enraptured to discover himself spearheading it. He had...
Yesterday was apparently Loyalty Day. In honor of the occasion, I give you this passage from Catch-22. Almost overnight the Glorious Loyalty Oath Crusade was in full flower, and Captain Black was enraptured to discover himself spearheading it. He had...
Apr
30
2003
collector's item
If you're in NYC this week, pick up a copy of the New York Post. Marvel Comics is running a special promotion for this weekend's release of X2. From Comics Continuum: The New York Post will be giving away an...
If you're in NYC this week, pick up a copy of the New York Post. Marvel Comics is running a special promotion for this weekend's release of X2. From Comics Continuum: The New York Post will be giving away an...
another reality show
I've gotten hooked on the the British show Manor House airing this week on PBS. Call it a highfalutin' television reality show. In it, 20-odd Britons spend three months in an old English manor, living, working, dressing and behaving as...
I've gotten hooked on the the British show Manor House airing this week on PBS. Call it a highfalutin' television reality show. In it, 20-odd Britons spend three months in an old English manor, living, working, dressing and behaving as...
Apr
28
2003
seen: star wars australia
Am I the only one who has visions of Steve Irwin chasing Ewoks and Russell Crowe punching Darth Vader in the mouth? - Slashdot poster lewko, in response to news that a casting agency is searching for extras to play...
Am I the only one who has visions of Steve Irwin chasing Ewoks and Russell Crowe punching Darth Vader in the mouth? - Slashdot poster lewko, in response to news that a casting agency is searching for extras to play...
remote controlled -- and increasingly fragmented
The Los Angeles Times ran a story two weeks ago about the cultural impact of the remote control, and the effect channel-surfing may have had on viewers' comprehension of the televised war coverage. ("Revolution by Remote" - 04/13/03) In its...
The Los Angeles Times ran a story two weeks ago about the cultural impact of the remote control, and the effect channel-surfing may have had on viewers' comprehension of the televised war coverage. ("Revolution by Remote" - 04/13/03) In its...
Apr
27
2003
clipping coupons
Random thoughts as I peruse the Sunday coupon inserts... McDonald's coupons: "Buy an entree Salad and get $1.00 off any Happy Meal or Mighty Kids Meal" / "Buy an entree Salad and get a free bottled water or medium drink"...
Random thoughts as I peruse the Sunday coupon inserts... McDonald's coupons: "Buy an entree Salad and get $1.00 off any Happy Meal or Mighty Kids Meal" / "Buy an entree Salad and get a free bottled water or medium drink"...
Apr
24
2003
jon stewart is my hero
Yes, I've said it before. And I'm saying it again, dammit. The Daily Show on Comedy Central is one of the smartest shows on television, and certainly one of the best late-night shows around. And, yes, Jon Stewart is my...
Yes, I've said it before. And I'm saying it again, dammit. The Daily Show on Comedy Central is one of the smartest shows on television, and certainly one of the best late-night shows around. And, yes, Jon Stewart is my...
Apr
22
2003
are marrieds happier?
Yesterday's Washington Post features (yet another) study that looks into whether people really are happier after they get married. ("Does a Ring Bring Happiness, or Vice Versa?" - 04/21/03) The result of this study: There may be an uptick in...
Yesterday's Washington Post features (yet another) study that looks into whether people really are happier after they get married. ("Does a Ring Bring Happiness, or Vice Versa?" - 04/21/03) The result of this study: There may be an uptick in...
Apr
21
2003
wal-mart guilt
The Gazette (of Colorado Springs) has an interesting piece on what it's calling "Wal-Mart guilt": The mental discomfort felt by people who don't like Wal-Mart, but shop there anyway. (Posted at azcentral.com: "Wal-Mart Guilt: Many shop the store, but don't...
The Gazette (of Colorado Springs) has an interesting piece on what it's calling "Wal-Mart guilt": The mental discomfort felt by people who don't like Wal-Mart, but shop there anyway. (Posted at azcentral.com: "Wal-Mart Guilt: Many shop the store, but don't...
Apr
20
2003
american pop culture in iraq
Today's Los Angeles Times has a piece about the things that have been found in the palaces of Saddam Hussein and other Iraqi leadership types. ("Treading on the Trappings of Hussein's High Life" - 04/20/03) The story notes the surprising...
Today's Los Angeles Times has a piece about the things that have been found in the palaces of Saddam Hussein and other Iraqi leadership types. ("Treading on the Trappings of Hussein's High Life" - 04/20/03) The story notes the surprising...
Apr
19
2003
hitting the road
I'm off to South Carolina this weekend to visit family for the Easter holiday. Seven-hour drive, here I come! ;) I've burned a few CDs to keep me company on my way down. I have much love for Ben Folds,...
I'm off to South Carolina this weekend to visit family for the Easter holiday. Seven-hour drive, here I come! ;) I've burned a few CDs to keep me company on my way down. I have much love for Ben Folds,...
Apr
18
2003
you are what you read?
This month's Atlantic Monthly has a fascinating article by Timothy W. Ryback about two largely forgotten collections from Adolf Hitler's personal library at the Library of Congress and Brown University. Ryback examined the contents of each collection, and, in this...
This month's Atlantic Monthly has a fascinating article by Timothy W. Ryback about two largely forgotten collections from Adolf Hitler's personal library at the Library of Congress and Brown University. Ryback examined the contents of each collection, and, in this...
marvel and sony squabble over spider-man
Discussion heated up on Slashdot and various comics messageboards after the Drudge Report posted an article saying that Marvel Comics, owner of Spider-man and sundry other comics properties, is suing Sony Pictures, which released the Spider-man movie last year, to...
Discussion heated up on Slashdot and various comics messageboards after the Drudge Report posted an article saying that Marvel Comics, owner of Spider-man and sundry other comics properties, is suing Sony Pictures, which released the Spider-man movie last year, to...
Apr
11
2003
a world of insults
In light of the widely-televised show of Iraqis beating the fallen statue of Saddam Hussein with their shoes, the Washington Post has a story about insulting gestures around the world. ("Worst Foot Forward: A Guide to Foreign Insults" - 04/10/03)...
In light of the widely-televised show of Iraqis beating the fallen statue of Saddam Hussein with their shoes, the Washington Post has a story about insulting gestures around the world. ("Worst Foot Forward: A Guide to Foreign Insults" - 04/10/03)...
Apr
10
2003
what concert was she at?
The Richmond Times-Dispatch has a positive review of last Saturday's Ben Folds concert at the University of Richmond. ("Odd but true, Ben Folds charms college crowd" - 04/07/03) Melissa Ruggieri writes: This young, reverential and well-behaved crowd apparently felt so...
The Richmond Times-Dispatch has a positive review of last Saturday's Ben Folds concert at the University of Richmond. ("Odd but true, Ben Folds charms college crowd" - 04/07/03) Melissa Ruggieri writes: This young, reverential and well-behaved crowd apparently felt so...
Apr
7
2003
googlewashed
The Register's Andrew Orlowski writes about how the meaning of the phrase "second superpower" was "changed" via Google in seven weeks. ("Anti-war slogan coined, repurposed and Googlewashed ... in 42 days" - 03/04/03) Although it took millions of people around...
The Register's Andrew Orlowski writes about how the meaning of the phrase "second superpower" was "changed" via Google in seven weeks. ("Anti-war slogan coined, repurposed and Googlewashed ... in 42 days" - 03/04/03) Although it took millions of people around...
Apr
2
2003
voting open for the 2003 cbffas
Voting is officially open for the 2003 Comic Book Fan-Fiction Awards. You can cast your ballot online through April 30. From Alara, one of the contest organizers: But the vote is now open! (And this is not an April Fool's...
Voting is officially open for the 2003 Comic Book Fan-Fiction Awards. You can cast your ballot online through April 30. From Alara, one of the contest organizers: But the vote is now open! (And this is not an April Fool's...
Apr
1
2003
lost in the translation
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is running a campaign to get kids to stop drinking milk. The Orlando Sun-Sentinel reports that their slogan -- "Dump Dairy" -- acquired an unintended double meaning when translated to Spanish. ("Anti-milk...
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is running a campaign to get kids to stop drinking milk. The Orlando Sun-Sentinel reports that their slogan -- "Dump Dairy" -- acquired an unintended double meaning when translated to Spanish. ("Anti-milk...
Mar
17
2003
tv shows find new (profitable) life on dvd
The LA Times reported last week that television shows on DVD have become a surprising moneymaker for the entertainment industry. ("Studios Take TV on DVD and Rerun With It" - 03/13/03) Three years ago, fewer than a hundred shows were...
The LA Times reported last week that television shows on DVD have become a surprising moneymaker for the entertainment industry. ("Studios Take TV on DVD and Rerun With It" - 03/13/03) Three years ago, fewer than a hundred shows were...
Mar
14
2003
identity theft gets scarier
MSNBC reports on about a decidedly scary case of identity theft in Wisconsin. ("The darkest side of ID theft" - 03/09/03) Over the past five years, Malcolm Byrd has several times been arrested on drug charges, lost his job, and...
MSNBC reports on about a decidedly scary case of identity theft in Wisconsin. ("The darkest side of ID theft" - 03/09/03) Over the past five years, Malcolm Byrd has several times been arrested on drug charges, lost his job, and...
Mar
13
2003
unböring
Back on Super Bowl Sunday, I complained about the lack of creative new TV ads, a la Spike Jonze's "Tainted Love" ad for Levi's a few years back. This afternoon, a friend pointed me toward a new Spike Jonze ad...
Back on Super Bowl Sunday, I complained about the lack of creative new TV ads, a la Spike Jonze's "Tainted Love" ad for Levi's a few years back. This afternoon, a friend pointed me toward a new Spike Jonze ad...
Mar
11
2003
getting back at the french
CNN reports that two Republican congressmen have successfully campaigned to change the name of "French fries" and "French toast" offered at the House of Representatives' cafeterias to "freedom fries" and "freedom toast." ("House cafeterias change names for 'french fries' and...
CNN reports that two Republican congressmen have successfully campaigned to change the name of "French fries" and "French toast" offered at the House of Representatives' cafeterias to "freedom fries" and "freedom toast." ("House cafeterias change names for 'french fries' and...
Mar
3
2003
anywhere but here
According to a global "quality of life" survey by UK-based Mercer Human Resource Consulting, Zurich, Vancouver and Vienna are the best overall places to live in terms of personal safety. And Washington, DC? It's the lowest-ranking North American city on...
According to a global "quality of life" survey by UK-based Mercer Human Resource Consulting, Zurich, Vancouver and Vienna are the best overall places to live in terms of personal safety. And Washington, DC? It's the lowest-ranking North American city on...
Feb
28
2003
quote of the day: good behavior
"If I'm not going to be eternally rewarded for my behavior, I'd sure like to know now." - Calvin, Calvin & Hobbes...
"If I'm not going to be eternally rewarded for my behavior, I'd sure like to know now." - Calvin, Calvin & Hobbes...
Feb
27
2003
google doesn't want to be 'googled'
The Google Weblog reports that lawyers for search engine Google requested that the verb "google" be removed from, or its definition modified in, the online dictionary Word Spy. ("Google asks to be removed from dictionary" - 02/26/03) The WordSpy definition...
The Google Weblog reports that lawyers for search engine Google requested that the verb "google" be removed from, or its definition modified in, the online dictionary Word Spy. ("Google asks to be removed from dictionary" - 02/26/03) The WordSpy definition...
'buffy' no more
E!Online reports that Buffy: The Vampire Slayer is officially over as of this season, its seventh. The series finale is May 20. ("'Buffy' Laid to Rest" - 02/27/03) Earlier this week, star Sarah Michelle Gellar confirmed that she would not...
E!Online reports that Buffy: The Vampire Slayer is officially over as of this season, its seventh. The series finale is May 20. ("'Buffy' Laid to Rest" - 02/27/03) Earlier this week, star Sarah Michelle Gellar confirmed that she would not...
sad news
Fred Rogers, better known as children's television personality "Mister Rogers," died today of stomach cancer at the age of 74. ("Fred Rogers, Host of TV's 'Mister Rogers' Dies at 74" - 02/26/03) News accounts of his death no doubt will...
Fred Rogers, better known as children's television personality "Mister Rogers," died today of stomach cancer at the age of 74. ("Fred Rogers, Host of TV's 'Mister Rogers' Dies at 74" - 02/26/03) News accounts of his death no doubt will...
Feb
24
2003
the language of war
A goodly number of news media reports these days refer to an "impending war" against Iraq. An interesting article in the Chicago Tribune points out that the rampant use of this phrase could undermine the media's supposed objectivity, as well...
A goodly number of news media reports these days refer to an "impending war" against Iraq. An interesting article in the Chicago Tribune points out that the rampant use of this phrase could undermine the media's supposed objectivity, as well...
Feb
19
2003
new X2 trailer
The new trailer for X2 (the sequel to 2000's X-Men) is now available online. Looks like there will be more than sparks flying between Rogue and Bobby. And Storm and Jean got better hair! Plus, more Professor X / Magneto...
The new trailer for X2 (the sequel to 2000's X-Men) is now available online. Looks like there will be more than sparks flying between Rogue and Bobby. And Storm and Jean got better hair! Plus, more Professor X / Magneto...
shopping holiday
I found this interesting quote in a WP story about disrupted Presidents' Day holiday sales: ("Area Shopping Malls Reopen, Resume Sales After 2-Day Shutdown" - 02/19/03) George Whalin, president and chief executive of Retail Management Consultants, said retailers figure they...
I found this interesting quote in a WP story about disrupted Presidents' Day holiday sales: ("Area Shopping Malls Reopen, Resume Sales After 2-Day Shutdown" - 02/19/03) George Whalin, president and chief executive of Retail Management Consultants, said retailers figure they...
Feb
14
2003
capitalism at work
You can see capitalism at its most basic, supply-and-demand level here on the streets of Washington, DC. The street vendors here in DC seem prepared for every holiday, every meteorological event, every eventuality. I see them outside the Foggy Bottom...
You can see capitalism at its most basic, supply-and-demand level here on the streets of Washington, DC. The street vendors here in DC seem prepared for every holiday, every meteorological event, every eventuality. I see them outside the Foggy Bottom...
Feb
13
2003
how do you pronounce 'pecan'?
Harvard University has an interesting online dialect study going on. Respondents are asked a series of questions about how they pronounce a particular word, or how they describe a certain object / activity. The most interesting part of this site...
Harvard University has an interesting online dialect study going on. Respondents are asked a series of questions about how they pronounce a particular word, or how they describe a certain object / activity. The most interesting part of this site...
Feb
12
2003
gamers of the world unite
The Poynter Institute's E-Media Tidbits weblog points to an interesting Associated Press story. Many games are now all about role-playing, and some players aren't participating to escape terrestrial life. They're getting on virtual soapboxes and organizing all manner of protests...
The Poynter Institute's E-Media Tidbits weblog points to an interesting Associated Press story. Many games are now all about role-playing, and some players aren't participating to escape terrestrial life. They're getting on virtual soapboxes and organizing all manner of protests...
Feb
9
2003
patron saint of the internet
CNN ran a story last week about an online campaign to nominate a patron saint for the Internet. ("Bishops seek saint for Internet" - 02/01/03) The Italian site Santie Beati is running an Internet poll where users can vote for...
CNN ran a story last week about an online campaign to nominate a patron saint for the Internet. ("Bishops seek saint for Internet" - 02/01/03) The Italian site Santie Beati is running an Internet poll where users can vote for...
Feb
8
2003
fanficcers of the world unite
Nominations are now open for the 2003 Comic Book Fan-Fiction Awards (CBFFAs). Entries will be accepted through Tuesday, March 4. These awards tend to be weighted toward X-Men fan-fic, but there are categories for non-X fics as well. If you...
Nominations are now open for the 2003 Comic Book Fan-Fiction Awards (CBFFAs). Entries will be accepted through Tuesday, March 4. These awards tend to be weighted toward X-Men fan-fic, but there are categories for non-X fics as well. If you...
Jan
27
2003
super bowl ad-meter
USAToday.com is running an online survey of people's favorite Super Bowl ads, complete with video clips of each ad. Check it out here. (USA Today's 15th Annual Ad Meter - 01/27/03) Edited 1/28/03 ... Slate's Rob Walker has a chatty...
USAToday.com is running an online survey of people's favorite Super Bowl ads, complete with video clips of each ad. Check it out here. (USA Today's 15th Annual Ad Meter - 01/27/03) Edited 1/28/03 ... Slate's Rob Walker has a chatty...
Jan
26
2003
super bowl sunday
The Super Bowl just started ... Don't care much about football, but I'm hoping the commercials will be at least somewhat memorable this year. Nothing especially memorable so far... Edited: 6:48 p.m. ... Pepsi Twist commercial featuring the Osbournes /...
The Super Bowl just started ... Don't care much about football, but I'm hoping the commercials will be at least somewhat memorable this year. Nothing especially memorable so far... Edited: 6:48 p.m. ... Pepsi Twist commercial featuring the Osbournes /...
Jan
20
2003
judge rules x-men are inhuman
The Wall Street Journal has a curious story in today's paper (Fans Howl in Protest as Judge Decides X-Men Aren't Human - 1/20/03). ToyBiz, the action-figure producing subsidiary of Marvel Comics asked a judge to rule that the Marvel mutants...
The Wall Street Journal has a curious story in today's paper (Fans Howl in Protest as Judge Decides X-Men Aren't Human - 1/20/03). ToyBiz, the action-figure producing subsidiary of Marvel Comics asked a judge to rule that the Marvel mutants...
Jan
16
2003
a future darwin awards candidate?
Ananova has a report of a Russian man who froze his penis to a bus shelter while urinating. According to the story, originally reported by the BBC, the man swayed too close to the bus shelter and got stuck. The...
Ananova has a report of a Russian man who froze his penis to a bus shelter while urinating. According to the story, originally reported by the BBC, the man swayed too close to the bus shelter and got stuck. The...
Jan
14
2003
psychoanalyzing buffy: resurrection and rebirth
Part 4 of a series. Four months after Buffy's death, her friends resurrect her. Buffy's corpse comes back to life, inside her coffin, and the newly-awakened Buffy begins to panic as she realizes that she's buried alive.
Part 4 of a series. Four months after Buffy's death, her friends resurrect her. Buffy's corpse comes back to life, inside her coffin, and the newly-awakened Buffy begins to panic as she realizes that she's buried alive.
Jan
13
2003
psychoanalyzing buffy: suicide and sacrifice
Part 3 of a series. Season Five is a difficult emotional battleground for Buffy, one that ultimately leads to her self-sacrificing suicidal leap in the final episode.
Part 3 of a series. Season Five is a difficult emotional battleground for Buffy, one that ultimately leads to her self-sacrificing suicidal leap in the final episode.
Jan
12
2003
psychoanalyzing buffy: transference
Part 2 of a series. A recurring theme in Buffy: The Vampire Slayer is the bad or missing father, and the search for suitable replacement father-figures. For Buffy, Xander and Willow, Giles becomes a substitute father-figure.
Part 2 of a series. A recurring theme in Buffy: The Vampire Slayer is the bad or missing father, and the search for suitable replacement father-figures. For Buffy, Xander and Willow, Giles becomes a substitute father-figure.
Jan
11
2003
psychoanalyzing buffy, redux
Part 1 of a series. Sigmund Freud's theory of psychoanalysis can be applied liberally to the myriad themes and metaphors in Buffy: The Vampire Slayer, from the more obvious phallic symbolism of the stake to the psychic traumas of Buffy's recent suicide/self-sacrifice and resurrection.
Part 1 of a series. Sigmund Freud's theory of psychoanalysis can be applied liberally to the myriad themes and metaphors in Buffy: The Vampire Slayer, from the more obvious phallic symbolism of the stake to the psychic traumas of Buffy's recent suicide/self-sacrifice and resurrection.
Dec
30
2002
lotr: pervy hobbit fancier
There's a wonderfully silly bit of Lord of the Rings fan-fiction going on called "The Secret Diaries," written by Cassandra Claire in her LiveJournal. The series features a number of "very secret diaries" of various characters in "The Fellowship of...
There's a wonderfully silly bit of Lord of the Rings fan-fiction going on called "The Secret Diaries," written by Cassandra Claire in her LiveJournal. The series features a number of "very secret diaries" of various characters in "The Fellowship of...
Dec
18
2002
buffy 7x10 - don't believe the captions
In this week's episode of Buffy, "Bring on the Night," there were some interesting discrepancies between the closed captioning and the actual dialogue.
In this week's episode of Buffy, "Bring on the Night," there were some interesting discrepancies between the closed captioning and the actual dialogue.
the language of type
As human societies have evolved, ideas and thoughts have been distilled and communicated via an oral language. Over time, this oral language has been further distilled into another symbolic form: the printed word. Discussion of this evolution often leaves out an important mediator between the printed word and the reader: the typeface.
As human societies have evolved, ideas and thoughts have been distilled and communicated via an oral language. Over time, this oral language has been further distilled into another symbolic form: the printed word. Discussion of this evolution often leaves out an important mediator between the printed word and the reader: the typeface.
Dec
11
2002
ghost in the machine
The Wall Street Journal had an interesting story by Jeffrey Zaslow on Nov. 26 about TiVo and Amazon.com users who were frustrated with the program/product recommendations each service's system offered them (based on past orders), and how some users are...
The Wall Street Journal had an interesting story by Jeffrey Zaslow on Nov. 26 about TiVo and Amazon.com users who were frustrated with the program/product recommendations each service's system offered them (based on past orders), and how some users are...
Dec
10
2002
lovely spam! wonderful spam!
Spam tops the news today at Slate. Not Spam in the "bane of e-mail existence" sense, but Spam in the "canned spiced ham" sense. Apparently, sales are lagging for the once-popular luncheon meat, and Hormel's trying to improve Spam's image...
Spam tops the news today at Slate. Not Spam in the "bane of e-mail existence" sense, but Spam in the "canned spiced ham" sense. Apparently, sales are lagging for the once-popular luncheon meat, and Hormel's trying to improve Spam's image...
Dec
8
2002
and they call it spuffy love...
The following is from a posting I made to the 'Buffy' boards at Television Without Pity, where there was a discussion about whether Spike really loved Buffy in Seasons 5 and 6, and whether Dru's "Spike loved Buffy all along" comment in Season 5 was a retcon.
The following is from a posting I made to the 'Buffy' boards at Television Without Pity, where there was a discussion about whether Spike really loved Buffy in Seasons 5 and 6, and whether Dru's "Spike loved Buffy all along" comment in Season 5 was a retcon.
Dec
6
2002
word of the day: foobar
I stumbled upon this rather detailed explanation of why the words "foo" and "bar" come up so often in programming examples, and the origin of the term. I'd surmised that "foobar" was a derivation of "FUBAR," but this explanation goes...
I stumbled upon this rather detailed explanation of why the words "foo" and "bar" come up so often in programming examples, and the origin of the term. I'd surmised that "foobar" was a derivation of "FUBAR," but this explanation goes...
Dec
4
2002
buffy 7x09 - "never leave me"
The cool thing about reading the shooting script for a particular episode is that you can get a glimpse of how the episode evolved from shooting to airing, and get a better idea of what the writer(s) intended to show in various scenes.
The cool thing about reading the shooting script for a particular episode is that you can get a glimpse of how the episode evolved from shooting to airing, and get a better idea of what the writer(s) intended to show in various scenes.
Nov
25
2002
a representation of reality
I went to the Trompe L'Oeil exhibit at the National Gallery of Art this weekend. The exhibit is a collection of artwork -- paintings, sculptures and the like -- which in part act as optical illusions that, through tricks of...
I went to the Trompe L'Oeil exhibit at the National Gallery of Art this weekend. The exhibit is a collection of artwork -- paintings, sculptures and the like -- which in part act as optical illusions that, through tricks of...
Nov
22
2002
a freudian take on 'buffy'
One of the conceits of Buffy: The Vampire Slayer is that it takes the ostensibly ditzy blond typically victimized in horror movies and makes her the empowered hero. The show's lore has California girl Buffy Summers chosen to be the Slayer, killing vampires with a pointy wooden stake. Buffy's stake is loaded with possible Freudian interpretations.
One of the conceits of Buffy: The Vampire Slayer is that it takes the ostensibly ditzy blond typically victimized in horror movies and makes her the empowered hero. The show's lore has California girl Buffy Summers chosen to be the Slayer, killing vampires with a pointy wooden stake. Buffy's stake is loaded with possible Freudian interpretations.
![[Photo]](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2612/4086303333_6985468b59_t.jpg)
