Posts
27 minutes ago
Your opportunity has arrived
Your whole life has been focused on preparation for this day. And it has arrived. That's right. Diddy (aka "Puff Daddy" aka "P. Diddy" etc etc etc) is looking for a new assistant. On YouTube.
Right now the internets are really on my nerves. Check out this "resume". This woman has been a corrections officer, has two degrees, gone to "model school", has been a financial analyst and has been a waitress at Red Lobster.
... and still manages to lean over several times so that we are aware of her "assets".
Right now the internets are really on my nerves. Check out this "resume". This woman has been a corrections officer, has two degrees, gone to "model school", has been a financial analyst and has been a waitress at Red Lobster.
... and still manages to lean over several times so that we are aware of her "assets".
Ted Stevens bugs me
so I'm (not so secretly) happy that the senior (seriously, the guy is old) Senator from Alaska's house was raided by the FBI. They're investigating possible corruption based on his relationship with a wealthy contractor. Power corrupts, eh?
Anyhoo...if you don't remember who Ted Stevens is, listen to him talking about the internets - he was speaking in opposition to Net Neutrality. Oy.
Anyhoo...if you don't remember who Ted Stevens is, listen to him talking about the internets - he was speaking in opposition to Net Neutrality. Oy.
Neuticles
Have you neutered your pup? Feeling like something's missing? Well now there's an answer. That's right -- Neuticles -- testicular implants for dogs.
I know that men have a real issue about neutering their dogs, but from what I understand, neutered males live longer than unneutered males. Plus, in LA (where I lived when I got Gus), they charge a significantly larger fee if you register an unneutered dog. But that really wasn't part of my decision.
I had Gus neutered when he was six months old - that's the youngest they can be when you do it. He seems okay about it - still likes me 'n all. Doesn't seem to have an attitude about it.
So, why the Neuticles? I'm thinking it's for men who feel that their male dogs are somehow feminized without those parts.
Of course, the website itself is worth a look just for comedic value. After all, they quote Rush Limbaugh:
"Neuticles are just plain neat!"Rush Limbaugh
And then there's the sizing chart and pictures of the Neuticles...'nuff said.
Whoops...maybe not. From the FAQs (Do you think this really is a frequently asked question?):
Can Neuticles be implanted in people?
Absolutely not. While the material used for Neuticles is FDA approved, a second FDA approval is required by law for each area of the human body an implant is placed. No company, including Neuticles, has FDA approval for solid silicone or polypropylene testicular implants. Neuticles are perfectly safe for pets but cannot be used on people.
I know that men have a real issue about neutering their dogs, but from what I understand, neutered males live longer than unneutered males. Plus, in LA (where I lived when I got Gus), they charge a significantly larger fee if you register an unneutered dog. But that really wasn't part of my decision.
I had Gus neutered when he was six months old - that's the youngest they can be when you do it. He seems okay about it - still likes me 'n all. Doesn't seem to have an attitude about it.
So, why the Neuticles? I'm thinking it's for men who feel that their male dogs are somehow feminized without those parts.
Of course, the website itself is worth a look just for comedic value. After all, they quote Rush Limbaugh:
"Neuticles are just plain neat!"Rush Limbaugh
And then there's the sizing chart and pictures of the Neuticles...'nuff said.
Whoops...maybe not. From the FAQs (Do you think this really is a frequently asked question?):
Can Neuticles be implanted in people?
Absolutely not. While the material used for Neuticles is FDA approved, a second FDA approval is required by law for each area of the human body an implant is placed. No company, including Neuticles, has FDA approval for solid silicone or polypropylene testicular implants. Neuticles are perfectly safe for pets but cannot be used on people.
What's the chance
that Gonzales will resign during Congress' summer vacation and Bush will pull a recess appointment?
I'm going to say 3:1.
I'm going to say 3:1.
Darn! A gifting opportunity missed...
Panda Poop To Be Recycled Into Souvenirs
The Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Base has come up with a dung-for-profit scheme that turns droppings from the endangered species into odor-free souvenirs ranging from bookmarks to Olympic-themed statues of the animals, state media and base officials said Monday.
Teehee. Thanks CBSNews!
The Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Base has come up with a dung-for-profit scheme that turns droppings from the endangered species into odor-free souvenirs ranging from bookmarks to Olympic-themed statues of the animals, state media and base officials said Monday.
Teehee. Thanks CBSNews!
The worst interviewer ever
Holly Hunter remains polite throughout, which is remarkable. By the way, her show started the other night and was really great - definitely check it out.
There's no good news channels
Seriously. I mean Fox News is just silly. MSNBC stinks. And CNN ("the most trusted name in news") has become ridiculous. They just were talking about how the Dow is down 300 points. They wrapped up by saying "Should investors be panicked? We'll follow
If you know anything about Second Life
then this is hysterical. If not, move on....
Bandits have hit Second Life and stolen $3.2 million Linden dollars. Heh.
Bandits have hit Second Life and stolen $3.2 million Linden dollars. Heh.
Go Pope Go
The Pope says that the whole evolution vs. creationism debate is ridiculous and that faith and science can coexist. Yay Pope!
Pope Benedict XVI said the debate raging in some countries — particularly the United States and his native Germany — between creationism and evolution was an “absurdity,” saying that evolution can coexist with faith.
The pontiff, speaking as he was concluding his holiday in northern Italy, also said that while there is much scientific proof to support evolution, the theory could not exclude a role by God.
Benedict also said the human race must listen to “the voice of the Earth” or risk destroying its very existence.
“We cannot simply do what we want with this Earth of ours, with what has been entrusted to us,” said the pope, who has been spending his time reading and walking in the scenic landscape bordering Austria.
Last April, the Vatican sponsored a scientific conference on climate change to underscore the role that religious leaders around the world could play in reminding people that willfully damaging the environment is sinful.
Many of the evangelical groups in the US have begun focusing on the environment, but many feel that this should not be a focus as it distracts them from the important issues like abortion and "family values". I don't think the evangelicals really care much what the Pope says. Sigh...
From msnbc.com
Pope Benedict XVI said the debate raging in some countries — particularly the United States and his native Germany — between creationism and evolution was an “absurdity,” saying that evolution can coexist with faith.
The pontiff, speaking as he was concluding his holiday in northern Italy, also said that while there is much scientific proof to support evolution, the theory could not exclude a role by God.
Benedict also said the human race must listen to “the voice of the Earth” or risk destroying its very existence.
“We cannot simply do what we want with this Earth of ours, with what has been entrusted to us,” said the pope, who has been spending his time reading and walking in the scenic landscape bordering Austria.
Last April, the Vatican sponsored a scientific conference on climate change to underscore the role that religious leaders around the world could play in reminding people that willfully damaging the environment is sinful.
Many of the evangelical groups in the US have begun focusing on the environment, but many feel that this should not be a focus as it distracts them from the important issues like abortion and "family values". I don't think the evangelicals really care much what the Pope says. Sigh...
From msnbc.com
If you have finished reading Harry Potter 7
then read this article where JK Rowling discusses what happened to the characters beyond the Epilogue.
My lack of education finally pays off
I am not a nerd. (I still believe I'm a geek though.)
Overall, you scored as follows:
79% scored higher (more nerdy),2% scored the same, and 19% scored lower (less nerdy).
What does this mean? Your nerdiness is:Not nerdy, but then again maybe not all that cool either.
(they're oh so wrong about the not cool thing...)
via Richard.
Overall, you scored as follows:
79% scored higher (more nerdy),2% scored the same, and 19% scored lower (less nerdy).
What does this mean? Your nerdiness is:Not nerdy, but then again maybe not all that cool either.
(they're oh so wrong about the not cool thing...)
via Richard.
Now MySpace is safe!
They have deleted the profiles of 29,000 registered sex offenders, according to Advertising Age.
Ummm...that means that only unregistered sex offenders are left on there...or registered sex offenders who didn't use their real names.
FYI...be really careful what you post on websites. Don't list info that could help people figure out where you live. And tell your kids too. My nieces and cousins are on there and none of them have their real age listed - they all pretend they're older to get around the various limitations for kids on the site.
Ummm...that means that only unregistered sex offenders are left on there...or registered sex offenders who didn't use their real names.
FYI...be really careful what you post on websites. Don't list info that could help people figure out where you live. And tell your kids too. My nieces and cousins are on there and none of them have their real age listed - they all pretend they're older to get around the various limitations for kids on the site.
Last night's YouTube/CNN Democratic Presidential Debate
I wasn't sure how it was going to play, but I think this was the best "debate" I've ever seen (keeping in mind that it wasn't really a true debate, but the political ones here in the States never are). What was interesting to me is that CNN allowed some more "sensitive" questions on that would have never been asked by a professional.
For example, a pastor asked John Edwards why he said that his background growing up religious in the South makes him biased towards gay marriage. John Edwards mostly stumbled in response.
Would you meet with the leaders of Cuba, North Korea, Iran? Obama - absolutely. Clinton - first you have to lay the groundwork to make sure that something will be accomplished and that this won't just be used as a press opportunity in those countries.
I was sorta bopping around with who I liked. I think that Kucinich makes a lot of sense, but he has absolutely no chance of winning or being nominated. The angry man on the left side of the stage aka Mike Gravel mostly complained that he wasn't getting as much time as everyone else (fairly true - Edwards, Obama, Clinton seemed to get the most questions directed to them from the YouTubers and from the white haired wonder known as Anderson Cooper). But when he did speak, he was just angry angry angry. He was right though about all of the others being beholden to corporate interests - even Obama who had mentioned that he wasn't taking any dough from PACs, etc.)
By the way, it turns out Mike Gravel was formerly a senator from Alaska. The kooks seem to come from there. You want evidence? Click here to see him refuse to swear in executives from big oil before they testify before the Senate. Yippee for Alaska. No way I'd vote for such an angry fellow.
Bill Richardson repeatedly mentioned how we should have all the troops out of Iraq in 6 months. Even I know it's not technically possible to move all those people and equipment out of there that quickly. So, he's obviously got no clue and no chance of my vote.
Joe Biden came across as credible and educated on the issues. He seemed reasonable. I'll be watching him.
Hillary was the slickest. She had good answers, was amusing but I don't trust her. She's willing to go too far to the center for my tastes.
Edwards basically lost my vote last night. He's too stilted (still) and I like his whole poverty thing, but he just came across as a jerk.
Obama was interesting. Definitely got the energy. I thought Hillary nailed him after he said he'd meet with Castro, etc. (see above)
There are some highlight clips available on CNN.
For example, a pastor asked John Edwards why he said that his background growing up religious in the South makes him biased towards gay marriage. John Edwards mostly stumbled in response.
Would you meet with the leaders of Cuba, North Korea, Iran? Obama - absolutely. Clinton - first you have to lay the groundwork to make sure that something will be accomplished and that this won't just be used as a press opportunity in those countries.
I was sorta bopping around with who I liked. I think that Kucinich makes a lot of sense, but he has absolutely no chance of winning or being nominated. The angry man on the left side of the stage aka Mike Gravel mostly complained that he wasn't getting as much time as everyone else (fairly true - Edwards, Obama, Clinton seemed to get the most questions directed to them from the YouTubers and from the white haired wonder known as Anderson Cooper). But when he did speak, he was just angry angry angry. He was right though about all of the others being beholden to corporate interests - even Obama who had mentioned that he wasn't taking any dough from PACs, etc.)
By the way, it turns out Mike Gravel was formerly a senator from Alaska. The kooks seem to come from there. You want evidence? Click here to see him refuse to swear in executives from big oil before they testify before the Senate. Yippee for Alaska. No way I'd vote for such an angry fellow.
Bill Richardson repeatedly mentioned how we should have all the troops out of Iraq in 6 months. Even I know it's not technically possible to move all those people and equipment out of there that quickly. So, he's obviously got no clue and no chance of my vote.
Joe Biden came across as credible and educated on the issues. He seemed reasonable. I'll be watching him.
Hillary was the slickest. She had good answers, was amusing but I don't trust her. She's willing to go too far to the center for my tastes.
Edwards basically lost my vote last night. He's too stilted (still) and I like his whole poverty thing, but he just came across as a jerk.
Obama was interesting. Definitely got the energy. I thought Hillary nailed him after he said he'd meet with Castro, etc. (see above)
There are some highlight clips available on CNN.
Interesting....
I just got a request to be someone's linked in friend. Linked In is a social networking site that focuses on business professionals. When I logged in to accept the request, the site told me that 50 other people from the large corporate enterprise where I work are also on Linked In.
On Facebook, 17,000+ other people from the large corporate enterprise where I work are signed up.
I'm really enjoying Facebook. If you're not on there, you might want to check it out. It's an interesting way to keep up with friends by listing little quick & easy things and a good way to find events in your area and participate in discussions about things you're interested in.
On Facebook, 17,000+ other people from the large corporate enterprise where I work are signed up.
I'm really enjoying Facebook. If you're not on there, you might want to check it out. It's an interesting way to keep up with friends by listing little quick & easy things and a good way to find events in your area and participate in discussions about things you're interested in.
Max Blumenthal is a genius
I know, I never heard of him before today either. But he went to the College Republican National Convention in DC and asked the young Republicans questions about the Iraq war. He got a lot of the standard answers ("Fight them there so we don't have to fight them here", "We went there to fight Al Qaeda and the Islamic fascists", "Al Qaeda is there", etc.), but my favorite part of the piece is when he starts asking these kids "Why are you not fighting them over there right now?" Apparently, college Republicans are physically a mess, which is the only reason they're not enlisting. One guy "doesn't have a strong urge" and another says that "I don't think it's for me". You know, like Dick Cheney.
And then, just to make it even more interesting, he has footage of Tom Delay talking about the relationship between abortion & illegal immigration. He uses the old "if we had those aborted babies, we wouldn't need the illegal immigrants" line.
Oy.
And then, just to make it even more interesting, he has footage of Tom Delay talking about the relationship between abortion & illegal immigration. He uses the old "if we had those aborted babies, we wouldn't need the illegal immigrants" line.
Oy.
Joined Facebook recently and have been playing around with it. I'm mucked about with several different social networks (Friendster, MySpace, LinkedIn, etc.) and never really "got it", but I think that Facebook is doing it right.
What I see it being useful/fun for me is that it's a really easy place for me to post little info about what I'm up to, etc., pix, and other "get to know me stuff" for my friends - in one place. Right now, I have a blog, a picture website, etc. This is great and is more detailed than what I'm putting on Facebook, but that's a single location for quick notes and pix.
I also like the concept of the networks. Since Facebook originally started for college kids (opened up to the public in the last year or so), the focus was on your school - you could see what groups, events, items for sale, etc were associated with your school as that was your primary focus. Since I work for unnamed large global enterprise, I am in that network. It allows me to see what those folks are interested in, up to, planning, etc. I am also in the Seattle, WA network so that I can see events happening locally, etc.
Probably not the most interesting for married folks with kids, etc. (but they're too busy anyways), but I'm finding it an interesting place to look for things to do (there's a photography trip to look for Orcas this weekend), meet some new interesting people that like weird stuff like me and keep up with folks.
Technically, I think that what makes Facebook stand out from stuff like MySpace is that it's open - people can write their own add-in apps for it that you can then plug into your page. It's brilliant because it invites developers to get involved, which means that you get all sorts of creative and odd ideas flowing through your platform.
Also, apparently, all the kids are flocking to Facebook from MySpace. MySpace is totally old school now.
Edited to comment - isn't it amazing how many "etc"s I can put into one blog post? I'm one talented gal, aren't I?
What I see it being useful/fun for me is that it's a really easy place for me to post little info about what I'm up to, etc., pix, and other "get to know me stuff" for my friends - in one place. Right now, I have a blog, a picture website, etc. This is great and is more detailed than what I'm putting on Facebook, but that's a single location for quick notes and pix.
I also like the concept of the networks. Since Facebook originally started for college kids (opened up to the public in the last year or so), the focus was on your school - you could see what groups, events, items for sale, etc were associated with your school as that was your primary focus. Since I work for unnamed large global enterprise, I am in that network. It allows me to see what those folks are interested in, up to, planning, etc. I am also in the Seattle, WA network so that I can see events happening locally, etc.
Probably not the most interesting for married folks with kids, etc. (but they're too busy anyways), but I'm finding it an interesting place to look for things to do (there's a photography trip to look for Orcas this weekend), meet some new interesting people that like weird stuff like me and keep up with folks.
Technically, I think that what makes Facebook stand out from stuff like MySpace is that it's open - people can write their own add-in apps for it that you can then plug into your page. It's brilliant because it invites developers to get involved, which means that you get all sorts of creative and odd ideas flowing through your platform.
Also, apparently, all the kids are flocking to Facebook from MySpace. MySpace is totally old school now.
Edited to comment - isn't it amazing how many "etc"s I can put into one blog post? I'm one talented gal, aren't I?
Apparently my dog is onto something...
Iranian intelligence operatives recently detained over a dozen squirrels found within the nation's borders, claiming the rodents were serving as spies for Western powers determined to undermine the Islamic Republic.
"In recent weeks, intelligence operatives have arrested 14 squirrels within Iran's borders," state-sponsored news agency IRNA reported. "The squirrels were carrying spy gear of foreign agencies, and were stopped before they could act, thanks to the alertness of our intelligence services."
Iranian police commander Esmaeil Ahmadi-Moqadam confirmed the report, saying that a number of squirrels had been caught bearing foreign spy gear within Iran's borders. "I heard of this but I have no specific knowledge on the subject," he said. He refused to give further details.
Recently, Iran has increased its efforts in combating espionage by the West. The use of rodents has not been documented in the past.
I can't imagine this is true, but it's highly amusing. Thanks to Slog for the info.
By the way, when I search for "Iran & Squirrel" on the interwebs, there are lots of links but not to any reputable news sources. Darn. I don't see it on the Urban Legends website I generally look to for the truth, but I wouldn't quote this as being actually, ya know, true.
"In recent weeks, intelligence operatives have arrested 14 squirrels within Iran's borders," state-sponsored news agency IRNA reported. "The squirrels were carrying spy gear of foreign agencies, and were stopped before they could act, thanks to the alertness of our intelligence services."
Iranian police commander Esmaeil Ahmadi-Moqadam confirmed the report, saying that a number of squirrels had been caught bearing foreign spy gear within Iran's borders. "I heard of this but I have no specific knowledge on the subject," he said. He refused to give further details.
Recently, Iran has increased its efforts in combating espionage by the West. The use of rodents has not been documented in the past.
I can't imagine this is true, but it's highly amusing. Thanks to Slog for the info.
By the way, when I search for "Iran & Squirrel" on the interwebs, there are lots of links but not to any reputable news sources. Darn. I don't see it on the Urban Legends website I generally look to for the truth, but I wouldn't quote this as being actually, ya know, true.
Missing parts
I know that some men are really attached to their foreskin 'n all, but this sounds extremely unpleasant.
The TLC Tugger, a lampshade-like device creates a faux-foreskin out of shaft skin. You stick your member into the lampshade-like connector and tie the other end to your thigh, which then tugs on your shaft skin the entire day.
Owwwwwwwwwwww..... (that's my empathy ow)
(from Gizmodo)
A joke
Faith and Shelly were patients in a children's mental health institution. One day, when staff was busy with gossip while smoking, and during an outdoor recreation period, Faith and Shelly made a run for it – escape by going under the chain link fence, a low spot in the ground caused by a neglected drainage line.
They made it to the country club that adjoined the institution's property. While walking past its swimming pool, Shelly suddenly jumped into the deep end. She sank to the bottom of the pool and stayed there.
Faith jumped in to save her. She swam to the bottom and pulled Shelly out. Five minutes later, club security escorted them back to the institution.
When the Director of Psychiatry became aware of Faith's heroic act, he ordered her discharged from the institution, as she had demonstrated mental stability during an emergency.
“Faith, I have good news and bad news,” he said. “The good news is that you are discharged from this institution because you rationally responded to a crisis by jumping into the pool and saving Shelly's life. I have concluded that your act displayed sound mindedness.”
“The bad news is that Shelly hung herself in the bathroom with her shoestrings right after you saved her. I'm so sorry, but she's dead.”
“She didn't commit suicide,” Faith said. “I put her there to dry. Can I go home today?”
Hooray!
The New York Times just validated my Malteser love. When I used to work a lot in England and Scotland, I was told to bring back Cadbury bars for friends. I tried them and they were seriously yummy. I ended up hooked on Maltesers which are malted milk balls, but oh so much better than the ones we get here. This article makes me want to run to the nearby Brit shop and try a few other English candy bars. I highly recommend English candy bars (which is kinda funny cause Americans generally are pretty snobby when it comes to English food), but I'm telling you, the chocolate rocks! I mean listen to what Kevin has to say:
���Hershey���s tastes like ear wax,��� said Kevin Ellis, an Alaskan-born designer with Adobe Systems in San Francisco.
And the US Cadbury bars are not the same as the UK version:
It���s a different bar from the Cadbury bar available in the United States. According to the label, a British Cadbury Dairy Milk bar contains milk, sugar, cocoa mass, cocoa butter, vegetable fat and emulsifiers. The version made by the Hershey Company, which holds the license from Cadbury-Schweppes to produce the candy in the United States under the British company���s direction, starts its ingredient list with sugar. It lists lactose and the emulsifier soy lecithin, which keeps the cocoa butter from separating from the cocoa. The American product also lists ���natural and artificial flavorings.���
aka "stuff we don't want to actually name cause it will disturb you".
Hey Paula!
So, I've been watching the Paula Abdul reality show cause it's summer and I'm all about the train wrecks. But it turns out, Paula Abdul is super-normal and the only thing wrong with her life is that everyone around her lets her down and "doesn't treat her like the gift that she is".
And when she slurs her words and speaks nonsense? She's just tired, people.
heh.
And when she slurs her words and speaks nonsense? She's just tired, people.
heh.
Finally!
I've never been a Rudy Giuliani fan. I think he did some decent things when he first became mayor of NYC and then he got crazy. He wanted to get rid of hot dog vendors and ticket people for jaywalking and all kinds of ridiculous things that meant that NYC would lose its character and cops would be wasting their time on stuff like pornography and jaywalkers.
And now, there's a lot of people in this country who never knew anything about him until 9/11 and he's based his entire campaign on his "heroism" on 9/11. The real deal is that many of the problems that happened in the towers that day were his fault. The cops and the firemen couldn't talk to each other because their radios were on different frequencies. The cops were able to get out of the buildings after being ordered to - the firemen never got the order because their radios weren't working properly - same issue they'd had the last time the towers were bombed.
Why didn’t the firefighters have equipment that worked? The Giuliani administration had in fact bought new radios less than a year before the September 11 attacks. The $33 million deal was struck with Motorola Corporation under a no-bid contract.
The radios, which were bought sight-unseen and without the field-testing that is required under the Fire Department’s regulations, were designed for use by intelligence agencies, with encryption functions that have no use in firefighting.
These radios were issued to firefighters and then recalled within barely one week after widespread failures, including one in which a probationary firefighter nearly lost his life.
And, even worse, Giuliani insisted that the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) be based at the towers on the 27th floor of WTC 7. You know, put the OEM at the #1 target in NYC and probably the entire US - remember, the towers had already been bombed in 1993.
Anyways, the firefighter's union is speaking out about all of this, which is great in my book. He has all these people swindled into thinking he's some sort of hero in the face of terrorism and the real heroes are now speaking out against him. (Oh yeah, and his staff keeps getting arrested and outed for stuff like illegal drugs and cheating on their wives with prostitutes. I'm sure the religious right totally digs that, along with the three marriages, etc etc etc.) But this is way better in my book because it speaks to what kind of President he would be (heavens forbid).
And now, there's a lot of people in this country who never knew anything about him until 9/11 and he's based his entire campaign on his "heroism" on 9/11. The real deal is that many of the problems that happened in the towers that day were his fault. The cops and the firemen couldn't talk to each other because their radios were on different frequencies. The cops were able to get out of the buildings after being ordered to - the firemen never got the order because their radios weren't working properly - same issue they'd had the last time the towers were bombed.
Why didn’t the firefighters have equipment that worked? The Giuliani administration had in fact bought new radios less than a year before the September 11 attacks. The $33 million deal was struck with Motorola Corporation under a no-bid contract.
The radios, which were bought sight-unseen and without the field-testing that is required under the Fire Department’s regulations, were designed for use by intelligence agencies, with encryption functions that have no use in firefighting.
These radios were issued to firefighters and then recalled within barely one week after widespread failures, including one in which a probationary firefighter nearly lost his life.
And, even worse, Giuliani insisted that the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) be based at the towers on the 27th floor of WTC 7. You know, put the OEM at the #1 target in NYC and probably the entire US - remember, the towers had already been bombed in 1993.
Anyways, the firefighter's union is speaking out about all of this, which is great in my book. He has all these people swindled into thinking he's some sort of hero in the face of terrorism and the real heroes are now speaking out against him. (Oh yeah, and his staff keeps getting arrested and outed for stuff like illegal drugs and cheating on their wives with prostitutes. I'm sure the religious right totally digs that, along with the three marriages, etc etc etc.) But this is way better in my book because it speaks to what kind of President he would be (heavens forbid).
What's the most disturbing part of this post?
That you can click on this link to learn about how to make a tampon pan flute? Or that there is a site is named TamponCrafts.com? Or that there's video of someone playing Ode to Joe on a tampon pan flute? Only pick one.
I've only been to about 1/2 of the most popular destinations in the world
I missed a few in my (many) visits to England and my (few) visits to France. What's more appalling is that I've never been to Niagara Falls or the Grand Canyon. I'm going to Rome in September, so hopefully I can cross a few more off the list then.
1. Times Square, New York City, NY: 35 million visitors every year
2. National Mall & Memorial Parks, Washington, D.C.: about 25 million
3. Disney World's Magic Kingdom, Lake Buena Vista, Fla.: 16.6 million
4. Trafalgar Square, London, England: 15 million
5. Disneyland Park, Anaheim, Calif.: 14.7 million
6. Niagara Falls, Ontario and New York: 14 million
7. Fisherman's Wharf/Golden Gate National Recreation Area, San Francisco, Calif.: 13 million
8. Tokyo Disneyland/DisneySea, Tokyo, Japan: 12.9 million
9. Notre Dame de Paris, Paris, France: 12 million
10. Disneyland Paris, Marne-La-Vallee, France: 10.6 million
11. The Great Wall of China, Badaling area, China: About 10 million
12. The Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina: 9.2 million
13. Universal Studios Japan, Osaka, Japan: 8.5 million
14. Basilique du Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre, Paris, France: 8 million
15. Musée du Louvre, Paris, France: 7.5 million
16. Everland (amusement park), Kyonggi-Do, South Korea: 7.5 million
17. The Forbidden City/Tiananmen Square, Beijing, China: At least 7 million
18. Eiffel Tower, Paris, France: 6.7 million
19. Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando, Fla: 6 million
20. SeaWorld Florida, Orlando, Fla: 5,740,000
21. Pleasure Beach (amusement park), Blackpool, England: 5.7 million
22. Lotte World (amusement park), Seoul, South Korea: 5.5 million
23. Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, Japan: 5.4 million
24. Hong Kong Disneyland, China: 5.2 million
25. Centre Pompidou, Paris, France: 5.1 million
26. Tate Modern, London, England: 4.9 million
27. British Museum, London, England: 4.8 million
28. Universal Studios Los Angeles, Calif.: 4.7 million
29. National Gallery, London, England: 4.6 million
30. Metropolitan Museum, New York, NY: 4.5 million
31. Grand Canyon, Ariz.: 4.4 million
32. Tivoli Gardens (amusement park), Copenhagen, Denmark: 4.4 million
33. Ocean Park (amusement park), Hong Kong, China: 4.38 million
34. Busch Gardens (amusement park), Tampa Bay, Fla.: 4.36 million
35. SeaWorld California, San Diego, Calif.: 4.26 million
36. Statue of Liberty, New York, NY: 4.24 million
37. The Vatican and its museums, Rome, Italy: 4.2 million
38. Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia: More than 4 million
39. The Coliseum, Rome, Italy: 4 million
40. American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY: 4 million
41. Grauman's Chinese Theater, Hollywood, Calif.: 4 million
42. Empire State Building, New York, NY: 4 million
43. Natural History Museum, London, England: 3.7 million
44. The London Eye, London, England: 3.5 million
45. Palace of Versailles, France: 3.45 million
46. Yosemite National Park, Calif.: 3.44 million
47. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt: 3 million
48. Pompeii, Italy: 2.5 million
49. Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg, Russia: 2.5 million
50. Taj Mahal, Agra, India: 2.4 million
1. Times Square, New York City, NY: 35 million visitors every year
2. National Mall & Memorial Parks, Washington, D.C.: about 25 million
3. Disney World's Magic Kingdom, Lake Buena Vista, Fla.: 16.6 million
4. Trafalgar Square, London, England: 15 million
5. Disneyland Park, Anaheim, Calif.: 14.7 million
6. Niagara Falls, Ontario and New York: 14 million
7. Fisherman's Wharf/Golden Gate National Recreation Area, San Francisco, Calif.: 13 million
8. Tokyo Disneyland/DisneySea, Tokyo, Japan: 12.9 million
9. Notre Dame de Paris, Paris, France: 12 million
10. Disneyland Paris, Marne-La-Vallee, France: 10.6 million
11. The Great Wall of China, Badaling area, China: About 10 million
12. The Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina: 9.2 million
13. Universal Studios Japan, Osaka, Japan: 8.5 million
14. Basilique du Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre, Paris, France: 8 million
15. Musée du Louvre, Paris, France: 7.5 million
16. Everland (amusement park), Kyonggi-Do, South Korea: 7.5 million
17. The Forbidden City/Tiananmen Square, Beijing, China: At least 7 million
18. Eiffel Tower, Paris, France: 6.7 million
19. Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando, Fla: 6 million
20. SeaWorld Florida, Orlando, Fla: 5,740,000
21. Pleasure Beach (amusement park), Blackpool, England: 5.7 million
22. Lotte World (amusement park), Seoul, South Korea: 5.5 million
23. Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, Japan: 5.4 million
24. Hong Kong Disneyland, China: 5.2 million
25. Centre Pompidou, Paris, France: 5.1 million
26. Tate Modern, London, England: 4.9 million
27. British Museum, London, England: 4.8 million
28. Universal Studios Los Angeles, Calif.: 4.7 million
29. National Gallery, London, England: 4.6 million
30. Metropolitan Museum, New York, NY: 4.5 million
31. Grand Canyon, Ariz.: 4.4 million
32. Tivoli Gardens (amusement park), Copenhagen, Denmark: 4.4 million
33. Ocean Park (amusement park), Hong Kong, China: 4.38 million
34. Busch Gardens (amusement park), Tampa Bay, Fla.: 4.36 million
35. SeaWorld California, San Diego, Calif.: 4.26 million
36. Statue of Liberty, New York, NY: 4.24 million
37. The Vatican and its museums, Rome, Italy: 4.2 million
38. Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia: More than 4 million
39. The Coliseum, Rome, Italy: 4 million
40. American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY: 4 million
41. Grauman's Chinese Theater, Hollywood, Calif.: 4 million
42. Empire State Building, New York, NY: 4 million
43. Natural History Museum, London, England: 3.7 million
44. The London Eye, London, England: 3.5 million
45. Palace of Versailles, France: 3.45 million
46. Yosemite National Park, Calif.: 3.44 million
47. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt: 3 million
48. Pompeii, Italy: 2.5 million
49. Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg, Russia: 2.5 million
50. Taj Mahal, Agra, India: 2.4 million
Bride clobbers groom on wedding night
(and not in a good way...)
After some well-chosen insults, the newly-weds ended up grappling together in their hotel bridal suite and 33-year-old Mrs Allerton spiked her husband in the head with one of her stiletto heels.
Police who also arrived found the bride, still in her wedding gown and tiara, surrounded by broken glass and power sockets which she had ripped from the wall in her rage. "She wasn't particularly nice to the police," prosecutor Alan Townsend told Aberdeen Sheriff Court.
You gotta love those Brits! "She wasn't particularly nice..."
But look at the fairytale place where they got married -->
After some well-chosen insults, the newly-weds ended up grappling together in their hotel bridal suite and 33-year-old Mrs Allerton spiked her husband in the head with one of her stiletto heels.
Police who also arrived found the bride, still in her wedding gown and tiara, surrounded by broken glass and power sockets which she had ripped from the wall in her rage. "She wasn't particularly nice to the police," prosecutor Alan Townsend told Aberdeen Sheriff Court.
You gotta love those Brits! "She wasn't particularly nice..."
But look at the fairytale place where they got married -->
The next step in ego-googling
Online Identity Calculator (beta)
Your online identity score is 8.3 out of a possible score of 10.
Congratulations. You are digitally distinct. This is the nirvana of online identity. Keep up the good work, and remember that your Google results can change as fast as the weather in New England. So, regularly monitor your online identity.
Are you digitally distinct?
Your online identity score is 8.3 out of a possible score of 10.
Congratulations. You are digitally distinct. This is the nirvana of online identity. Keep up the good work, and remember that your Google results can change as fast as the weather in New England. So, regularly monitor your online identity.
Are you digitally distinct?
Impeach Dick
Full petition text: "Congress must force Vice President Cheney to respond to its subpoenas. If he continues to obstruct justice and disregard the rule of law, Congress has no choice but to begin impeachment proceedings against him."
Go here to sign this petition. It's organized by MoveOn.org and is being sent to Senators and Representatives (you tell them your zip code and they forward accordingly).
Go here to sign this petition. It's organized by MoveOn.org and is being sent to Senators and Representatives (you tell them your zip code and they forward accordingly).
Quick Movie thoughts
Watched a few movies this weekend:
A Mighty Heart: Those people had a lot of dinner parties while waiting to see if Daniel Pearl was going to be released or not. Kinda weird watching this, while hoping that he'd be released, but knowing the ending. You know, like Titanic. Watch it at home. No reason to rush to the theatre.
Mostly Martha: German flick, so move on if you can't handle reading subtitles. Sweet, charming rental about a busy woman chef who ends up taking care of her niece. Definitely worth renting.
La Vie en Rose: Yes, I spent a lot of time reading movies this weekend (which is my way of saying it's subtitled). Loved, loved, loved this one. It's about Edith Piaf (who I knew nothing about prior to this movie, but she was basically the French Judy Garland). Amazing lead performance, interesting story. Get la butt to la theatre tout suite.
A Mighty Heart: Those people had a lot of dinner parties while waiting to see if Daniel Pearl was going to be released or not. Kinda weird watching this, while hoping that he'd be released, but knowing the ending. You know, like Titanic. Watch it at home. No reason to rush to the theatre.
Mostly Martha: German flick, so move on if you can't handle reading subtitles. Sweet, charming rental about a busy woman chef who ends up taking care of her niece. Definitely worth renting.
La Vie en Rose: Yes, I spent a lot of time reading movies this weekend (which is my way of saying it's subtitled). Loved, loved, loved this one. It's about Edith Piaf (who I knew nothing about prior to this movie, but she was basically the French Judy Garland). Amazing lead performance, interesting story. Get la butt to la theatre tout suite.
Live Earth thoughts
This weekend, there was an event called Live Earth, which was comprised of a bunch of concerts held all over the world to focus people's attention on global warming and what we can do as individuals. Being the music geek I am, I recorded it all (at least what Univision HD broadcast) to look for new artists and to see if anything interesting happened. So, I spent random parts of the weekend fast forwarding through lots of boring acts, but there were some interesting moments out of the 700 hours (kidding. sorta) of concert I had recorded.
The concert kicked off in Australia and then went to Japan, China, London and Germany and then New York (aka known as the "Meadowlands" or colloquially, "New Jersey"). Most of the Australia and Asia stuff was pretty boring (there was an interesting artist in Australia named Missy Higgins, who apparently is pretty big down there). Europe is where things got interesting though - mostly London (at least for my tastes).
The Red Hot Chili Peppers rocked, as usual. They are an incredible band and if you ever have the opportunity to see them live, run in their general direction. I was surprised that the Beastie Boys played London, being a NY band 'n all, but the crowd was pretty enthusiastic. One of the Beasties has gray hair now, which is kinda disturbing, ya know, since he's a boy 'n all.
But for me, when Spinal Tap came on stage, it was a special moment, especially when one of the Taps greeted the crowd with "Hello Wimbledon!" (they were at Wembley Stadium). Then for their closing number, they invited all the bass players from the other bands to join them onstage. There were about 15 bass players from Metallica, Foo Fighters, etc. playing along with this classic mockumentary band that basically pokes fun at them. It was a classic moment, which of course is available on YouTube:
They cut to Washington, DC for Al Gore to kick off the events there. What was interesting was that Mr. Gore then appeared in NY (Meadowlands) to kick off the events there a few hours later. Ummm....it takes about 4-5 hours to drive or take the train from DC to NY (NJ). That means that Mr. Gore took a plane....probably a private one, which is probably not a great way to help prevent global warming.
Apparently, the whole private plane thing was disturbing some folks in London - when Duran Duran was performing, Simon LeBon asked the crowd "who didn't come here today on a private jet?" and then the band all raised their hands...I'd be really interested to hear that conversation backstage, cause you know there was one.
Oy. Just giving the right ammunition, aren't we?
Al G. was very warmly received in NY (Meadowlands), which was very interesting to see. The NY (Joisey) show was pretty interesting - lots of celebrities introducing bands, stadium looked pretty full as opposed to most of the other venues. One of the acts I watched in NY was Kelly Clarkson, who won American Idol a few (?) years ago. I was interested cause she's having a big public fight with the CEO of her record label about her new (released?) album and I wanted to see how she fared with a NY (Jersey) audience. The initial response was somewhat tepid and the only folks who seemed interested in her (and were singing along) were women. She's got chops, but Joss Stone (another tv singing contest winner - who performed in Johannesburg earlier in the night) blows her away talent wise. I don't really get the whole American Idol thing - this chick had a #1 album. But probably not in NY (Giants Stadium).
After Spinal Tap, the second most amusing thing was Madonna, who started off really boring me. I thought she'd lost it - the woman knows how to work a crowd, but kicking off with a ballad doesn't do that. But then she asked two of the guys from Gogol Bordello (a Lower East side - NYC - the actual NYC, btw - punk gypsy band) to perform with her and that changed everything. It's amazing that she can still get a crowd that worked up. I saw her a long time ago at a benefit in Brooklyn where she performed "You got me babe" with Sandra Bernard. Madonna sang Sonny's part and she won me over by doing so...
Anyways, here's the video for your amusement:
The concert kicked off in Australia and then went to Japan, China, London and Germany and then New York (aka known as the "Meadowlands" or colloquially, "New Jersey"). Most of the Australia and Asia stuff was pretty boring (there was an interesting artist in Australia named Missy Higgins, who apparently is pretty big down there). Europe is where things got interesting though - mostly London (at least for my tastes).
The Red Hot Chili Peppers rocked, as usual. They are an incredible band and if you ever have the opportunity to see them live, run in their general direction. I was surprised that the Beastie Boys played London, being a NY band 'n all, but the crowd was pretty enthusiastic. One of the Beasties has gray hair now, which is kinda disturbing, ya know, since he's a boy 'n all.
But for me, when Spinal Tap came on stage, it was a special moment, especially when one of the Taps greeted the crowd with "Hello Wimbledon!" (they were at Wembley Stadium). Then for their closing number, they invited all the bass players from the other bands to join them onstage. There were about 15 bass players from Metallica, Foo Fighters, etc. playing along with this classic mockumentary band that basically pokes fun at them. It was a classic moment, which of course is available on YouTube:
They cut to Washington, DC for Al Gore to kick off the events there. What was interesting was that Mr. Gore then appeared in NY (Meadowlands) to kick off the events there a few hours later. Ummm....it takes about 4-5 hours to drive or take the train from DC to NY (NJ). That means that Mr. Gore took a plane....probably a private one, which is probably not a great way to help prevent global warming.
Apparently, the whole private plane thing was disturbing some folks in London - when Duran Duran was performing, Simon LeBon asked the crowd "who didn't come here today on a private jet?" and then the band all raised their hands...I'd be really interested to hear that conversation backstage, cause you know there was one.
Oy. Just giving the right ammunition, aren't we?
Al G. was very warmly received in NY (Meadowlands), which was very interesting to see. The NY (Joisey) show was pretty interesting - lots of celebrities introducing bands, stadium looked pretty full as opposed to most of the other venues. One of the acts I watched in NY was Kelly Clarkson, who won American Idol a few (?) years ago. I was interested cause she's having a big public fight with the CEO of her record label about her new (released?) album and I wanted to see how she fared with a NY (Jersey) audience. The initial response was somewhat tepid and the only folks who seemed interested in her (and were singing along) were women. She's got chops, but Joss Stone (another tv singing contest winner - who performed in Johannesburg earlier in the night) blows her away talent wise. I don't really get the whole American Idol thing - this chick had a #1 album. But probably not in NY (Giants Stadium).
After Spinal Tap, the second most amusing thing was Madonna, who started off really boring me. I thought she'd lost it - the woman knows how to work a crowd, but kicking off with a ballad doesn't do that. But then she asked two of the guys from Gogol Bordello (a Lower East side - NYC - the actual NYC, btw - punk gypsy band) to perform with her and that changed everything. It's amazing that she can still get a crowd that worked up. I saw her a long time ago at a benefit in Brooklyn where she performed "You got me babe" with Sandra Bernard. Madonna sang Sonny's part and she won me over by doing so...
Anyways, here's the video for your amusement:
What branch of Government is Cheney in?
Doonesbury.com (my all time favorite comic) is running a poll about Vice President and black hole DICK Cheney. Click below to vote.
| Vice President Dick Cheney surprised everyone recently by revealing that his office is "neither a part of the executive branch nor a part of the legislative branch," and thus not subject to the rules governing either. | |||||
| What should we call Cheney's branch of government? | |||||
 The Execulative Branch. Cheney is essentially right -- he's part legislator and part executive, therefore exempt from the constraints on both. You need something profoundly evil implemented? Send it to the Veep's shop. Done. Bonus: it never happened. | |||||
 The Whipping Branch. Dubya's the Decider. Cheney is the Enforcer -- and he really, really doesn't want credit. Or even want us to know what he's doing. He makes modesty look bad, and dangerous. | |||||
 The Forbidden Branch. Step away from the question. What Cheney is doing, and why, and under what authority, are matters of national security. You don't want to go there, and even if you did, you can't. It's too late. | |||||
| Stance on Cheney | |||||
 Loathe Cheney |  Fear Cheney |  Not at liberty to say | |||
70% Good American
I think I just failed the test to become an American citizen. I got 70% right. How about you?
You Tube is going to make this a seriously entertaining election
You may have seen the I Got a Crush on Obama video on You Tube...
Now there's a (lesbian) response -- Hot4Hill
Now there's a (lesbian) response -- Hot4Hill
I Heart Flight of the Conchords
This show debuted on HBO a few weeks ago. I really didn't like the first half of the first episode (almost turned it off), but have totally fallen in love with them since. They claim to be New Zealand's fourth most popular comedy folk band. The show is about their adventures in NYC. Their manager (who works at the New Zealand embassy) insists on having roll call each time they meet ("Bret" "Here!", "Jermaine" "Here!", etc.) and won't book them for nighttime gigs cause it's dangerous at night. They have one fan -- who is a stalker. And married. And her husband drives her around to stalk the Concords. They have storylines and then suddenly break out into song. The stories are silly and the songs are super-silly. But it's all done with a straight face. Totally cracks me up.
From their website: Flight of the Conchords have put up a website on the internet. A spokesman from the band (Bret) said it there was a five year delay launching the website online due to a 'disagreement'. Apparently there was debate over how many times letter 'W' should appear in the 'WWW' part of the web address. While Bret wanted four making the domain name wwww.conchords.co.nz Jemaine was vying for seven with wwwwwww.conchords.co.nz. It turns out that you're only allowed three anyway.
Check them out...
and another one from the show (it's actually from the first episode):
From their website: Flight of the Conchords have put up a website on the internet. A spokesman from the band (Bret) said it there was a five year delay launching the website online due to a 'disagreement'. Apparently there was debate over how many times letter 'W' should appear in the 'WWW' part of the web address. While Bret wanted four making the domain name wwww.conchords.co.nz Jemaine was vying for seven with wwwwwww.conchords.co.nz. It turns out that you're only allowed three anyway.
Check them out...
and another one from the show (it's actually from the first episode):
Everyone relax...
According to the paper of note, TB guy doesn't have the horrible, contagious form of TB that they announced all over the media about six weeks ago. Whoops. Think this will be a leading story on the fine 24 hour news channels that got so much coverage out of the original story?
The globe-trotting American lawyer who caused an international public health incident by traveling while infected with tuberculosis has a less severe form of the disease than previously diagnosed, a federal health official said Tuesday.
The globe-trotting American lawyer who caused an international public health incident by traveling while infected with tuberculosis has a less severe form of the disease than previously diagnosed, a federal health official said Tuesday.
Sicko 'n stuff
I saw Sicko this weekend and found it really interesting and amusing (oddly enough, but Michael Moore is good at injecting humor into his flicks). What I didn't realize was that the movie is not about the uninsured in the US, but rather about the insured - and what the insurance companies do (or rather, don't do) to them.
Do your part to help send a message to the rotten politicians - let them know that this is something that people care about. They do listen to $$$ and if they see record numbers of people going to see this movie, they'll start paying attention. Look at how they're all talking "green" suddenly...I'm sure it had nothing to do with "An Inconvenient Truth", right? (Also, I think you'll enjoy it.)
According to Michael Moore's mailing list, "Sicko" more than doubled what industry insiders had predicted it would do for the weekend and, as I predicted, it did indeed have the second largest opening weekend in film history for a documentary (after Farenheit 911). It also had the second highest per screen average for the weekend (after the Pixar animated film, "Ratatouille")... Of course, if you live in Lincoln, NE; Bangor, ME; Reno, NV; New Haven, CT; Columbia, SC; or Oklahoma City, you didn't get to see "Sicko" this weekend either. But thanks to the massive turnout in the 440 theaters who had it, the studio has decided to expand "Sicko," TODAY (Tuesday, July 3) to 200 more theaters! And this Friday, they will add another 100 cities.
I also watched Mission Impossible 3 this weekend (on tv). It was okay, but part of it was fantastic! (I know you're shocked. But I mean it.) Philip Seymour Hoffman beats up Tom Cruise! Totally worth watching the whole flick for that scene.
Do your part to help send a message to the rotten politicians - let them know that this is something that people care about. They do listen to $$$ and if they see record numbers of people going to see this movie, they'll start paying attention. Look at how they're all talking "green" suddenly...I'm sure it had nothing to do with "An Inconvenient Truth", right? (Also, I think you'll enjoy it.)
According to Michael Moore's mailing list, "Sicko" more than doubled what industry insiders had predicted it would do for the weekend and, as I predicted, it did indeed have the second largest opening weekend in film history for a documentary (after Farenheit 911). It also had the second highest per screen average for the weekend (after the Pixar animated film, "Ratatouille")... Of course, if you live in Lincoln, NE; Bangor, ME; Reno, NV; New Haven, CT; Columbia, SC; or Oklahoma City, you didn't get to see "Sicko" this weekend either. But thanks to the massive turnout in the 440 theaters who had it, the studio has decided to expand "Sicko," TODAY (Tuesday, July 3) to 200 more theaters! And this Friday, they will add another 100 cities.
I also watched Mission Impossible 3 this weekend (on tv). It was okay, but part of it was fantastic! (I know you're shocked. But I mean it.) Philip Seymour Hoffman beats up Tom Cruise! Totally worth watching the whole flick for that scene.
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