I look up and realize it's August 31st. School starts next week. Days getting darker. *sigh*
Can I just say the looting going on in New Orleans is pathetic? I can see someone who has lost everything going into a store and stealing bottled water, or food, or a pair of shoes, or baby formula. I say that should be allowed because, lets face it, the stores are insured and the people have nothing to eat or drink. That's what we'd do when the zombie plague hits right? (I had to throw that in there). But I saw footage of people stealing BAGS full of clothes, televisions, obviously not necessary for survival, but just because they could. And I think that's pathetic. Also, why would you loot a television in the middle of a flood? Where are you going to put it? You can't watch it. No one is gonna buy it from you. But then again, no one said looters are smart.
Also, I find myself watching the nightmare come true in New Orleans thinking back to 1993 (yeah, yeah, keep the age comments to yourself) when my high school geology teacher was describing the situation in New Orleans and how the sediments keep raising the basin of the lake & river and pretty soon the levees are going to give and voila you have the nightmare you are seeing today. This was not some Army Corps of Engineers expert. This was a high school science teacher. I know hindsight is 20/20, but this wasn't hindsight. Experts have been saying for years that the levee system needs to be revamped. There was a plan proposed to do just that, and it was tabled. It would cost $14 billion dollars - about as much as Boston's big dig - which was done to solve a traffic & aesthetic problem - not prevent natural disaster. It just pisses me off.
That and, gee, I wish we had some more available National Guard around. Don't you? It would be nice to have them around to help instead of fighting an illegal war. But then again, it would be nice to have a surplus budget to help with the cleanup too.
31 August 2005
30 August 2005
Is it wrong?
Is it wrong of me to feel worse for the pets & animals than for the people in the flooding? Don't get me wrong, I can't imagine the horror of having to leave everything you know behind and watch it be destroyed, or the guilt of having to leave your pet behind, or the loss of a loved one. But at least you have someone to comfort you, and help make sense of the situation, and help you grieve. I can't help but imagine what's going through the pets' minds. They don't understand. At least you can explain what's happening to a child or a person. But a dog only knows they've been left to die. They don't know you had no choice, or that you meant to come back for them.
It makes me sad.
It makes me sad.
Bye, Bye, Big Easy
Everyone breathed a sigh of relief when Katrina veered East instead of West. But then...
A New Orleans levee, holding back Lake Pontchartrain broke and water is pouring in. This makes me very sad. No, I don't think New Orleans is more important than other areas necessarily, but it's unique geological & geographical situation makes this more devastating than flooding in other areas. The city of New Orleans lies below sea level and they expect it could be under 20 feet of water. Everything is housed above ground because of their low position - graves, gas tanks, chemical storage plants, etc. This means the city will not only be under water, but will likely become a "toxic soup".
"The city of New Orleans is in a state of devastation. We probably have 80 percent of our city underwater. With some sections of our city, the water is as deep as 20 feet."
I love New Orleans and was hoping to get back there next May. Hopefully it won't lose all its charm, but I don't think it will be the same.
Link added: CNN
A New Orleans levee, holding back Lake Pontchartrain broke and water is pouring in. This makes me very sad. No, I don't think New Orleans is more important than other areas necessarily, but it's unique geological & geographical situation makes this more devastating than flooding in other areas. The city of New Orleans lies below sea level and they expect it could be under 20 feet of water. Everything is housed above ground because of their low position - graves, gas tanks, chemical storage plants, etc. This means the city will not only be under water, but will likely become a "toxic soup".
"The city of New Orleans is in a state of devastation. We probably have 80 percent of our city underwater. With some sections of our city, the water is as deep as 20 feet."
I love New Orleans and was hoping to get back there next May. Hopefully it won't lose all its charm, but I don't think it will be the same.
Link added: CNN
29 August 2005
The greatest compliment
Someone told John today that he looked like the geek version of "the Dude". To which he replied, "That's like your opinion man." Needless to say, he was very jazzed about that. There he was with his messy, long hair and his "I'm a super-duper programmer" shirt, a jazzy, short sleeved overshirt, sunglasses, jeans and sandals. That's an apt description all right, except John isn't a slacker and he doesn't have any friends with strange 'Nam flashbacks. And he can't go bowling since they never have shoes his size.
I on the other hand, had a lovely day coding open-ended comments from a survey we conducted. I LOVE reading comments because every once in a while you'll get a gem like someone saying they love their dorm because everyone who lives there is an alcoholic or chronic weed smoker. I'll never forget the student suggestion on the DePaul survey about installing a rollerdome. No, not kidding. It's great fun I tell ya.
I on the other hand, had a lovely day coding open-ended comments from a survey we conducted. I LOVE reading comments because every once in a while you'll get a gem like someone saying they love their dorm because everyone who lives there is an alcoholic or chronic weed smoker. I'll never forget the student suggestion on the DePaul survey about installing a rollerdome. No, not kidding. It's great fun I tell ya.
Helicopter Parents
Yes, that's the term for them.
CNN had a great article online about the growing trend of over-involved parents on college campuses. I mean, parental involvement is a good thing, but you gotta cut the cord eventually. We had instances of this here, of parents arguing with professional, well-trained, academic advisors over what classes their children should be taking.
Part of the problem is the parent's not letting go, but I think it goes deeper than that. These "kids" don't know how to make decisions for themselves and are calling mommy for help with every problem. That leads me to believe that they were never taught how or allowed to make decisions growing up. Sometimes the best way to learn is to be allowed to make a mistake and have to dust yourself off and move on.
CNN had a great article online about the growing trend of over-involved parents on college campuses. I mean, parental involvement is a good thing, but you gotta cut the cord eventually. We had instances of this here, of parents arguing with professional, well-trained, academic advisors over what classes their children should be taking.
Part of the problem is the parent's not letting go, but I think it goes deeper than that. These "kids" don't know how to make decisions for themselves and are calling mommy for help with every problem. That leads me to believe that they were never taught how or allowed to make decisions growing up. Sometimes the best way to learn is to be allowed to make a mistake and have to dust yourself off and move on.
28 August 2005
Job Application
by Meryn Cadell
[man's voice in background: Why do you want a job here with us?]
I'd like to apply for a job
Yes, the job you have available.
My manner is most salable
And I hope you'll find me suitable
for 5.15 an hour.
I really have the skills, you see,
I've been to university
And though I studied history,
I found my heart to truly be
in men's ties, socks and glass figurines, the discount shoe industry.
[man's voice: what experience have you had that you think you would bring to this company?]
What makes me think I'd be good for this job?
Well, I love working with people. [man's voice: Are you bonded?]
And I love riding the subway an hour and a half each day.
Let's see, add those hours to my day and
I'll be making a whopping 3.75 an hour.
No, sir, I do want the job -
Can't you tell by my suit?
No, I actually don't own a dress.
I don't feel comfortable, I confess.
But, hell for 5.15 an hour, I'll endeavor to wear some colors other than black.
I, umm, enjoy working with the public and 'm good with money.
Oh, yes, you're right, all us girls are good with money.
Yes, that's charming.
Yes, how funny.
I like a good work atmosphere,
where the boss says whatever he wants
and the rest of us just listen.
I'm a very fast learner and if you give me this job I will be the perfect subhuman and never let the contempt shine in my worshipping eyes.
[man's voice: what could you bring to this company?]
I love working with people and let's see,
what else was I going to tell you?
No, I don't expect vacation pay and yes, I'm available every day, and though I don't like the evil way you're looking at me,
I've got rent to pay.
And, yes, I can start on Saturday.
[man's voice: sorry, we were looking for someone with lots of experience, really good manners, and maybe a little younger]
What do you call the loose skin around a vagina?
A woman.
First up on the new and improved Sarchasm are tips for those wily, independent women who don't know their place. Here's some alternatives for what to do when that mouth of yours just won't shut the fuck up.
1. Tell your husband you've never seen one THAT big before
2. Asking permission to leave the house to go shopping
3. "Does this dress come in pink?"
4. Less talkin, more suckin
5. "This laundry isn't going to fold itself"
6. Agreeing with whatever your husband says
7. "Honey, can I get you another beer?"
8. "Our Lord, who Art in Heaven..." **
9. Praising George W. Bush and the fine job he's doing
10. "Does this make me look fat?"
**Before you pick on me for being anti-Christian (which, I'm not. I'm anti-ideologue), I don't know Arabic or Hebrew or Hindi or Chinese or.... so I chose this one.
First up on the new and improved Sarchasm are tips for those wily, independent women who don't know their place. Here's some alternatives for what to do when that mouth of yours just won't shut the fuck up.
1. Tell your husband you've never seen one THAT big before
2. Asking permission to leave the house to go shopping
3. "Does this dress come in pink?"
4. Less talkin, more suckin
5. "This laundry isn't going to fold itself"
6. Agreeing with whatever your husband says
7. "Honey, can I get you another beer?"
8. "Our Lord, who Art in Heaven..." **
9. Praising George W. Bush and the fine job he's doing
10. "Does this make me look fat?"
**Before you pick on me for being anti-Christian (which, I'm not. I'm anti-ideologue), I don't know Arabic or Hebrew or Hindi or Chinese or.... so I chose this one.
26 August 2005
I have to grow up and go shoe shopping
Sorry folks. I've been informed by an asshole commenter at the Great White Bear that I need to grow up and go shoe shopping, instead of butting my head into important political discussions.
Like, I'm sorry boys. I should like, go back to the kitchen and like, cook you up a pot pie. I have no place in, like, political discussions... what a silly girl I've been.
So from now on, I'll only be discussing dress patterns, baking recipies, and other appropriate girl stuff.
Like, I'm sorry boys. I should like, go back to the kitchen and like, cook you up a pot pie. I have no place in, like, political discussions... what a silly girl I've been.
So from now on, I'll only be discussing dress patterns, baking recipies, and other appropriate girl stuff.
How DARE they!
From Center for American Progress:
"IRAQ -- AP POLL SHOWS AMERICAN PUBLIC DISAGREES WITH WHITE HOUSE ON MANY KEY ISSUES: Despite White House's efforts to demonize war protesters, an Associated Press-Ipsos poll revealed that nine of 10 people "say it's OK for war opponents to publicly share their concerns about the conflict." Contrary to White House claims of "progress" in Iraq, the poll found that only 37 percent approve of the way the Bush administration is conducting the war. And despite Bush's resistance to admitting any mistakes in Iraq, more than half of all respondents, 53 percent, say the United States made a mistake in going to war in Iraq."
From Gallup:
"NEW YORKIt's not uncommon to hear or read pundits referring to President George W. Bush as a "popular" leader or even a "very popular" one. Even some of his critics in the press refer to him this way. Perhaps they need to check the latest polls.
President Bush's approval rating has plunged to the lowest level of any president since World War II at this point in his second term, the Gallup Organization reported today.
Here are the approval ratings for presidents as recorded by Gallup (all for March):
Truman, 1949: 57%.
Eisenhower, 1957: 65%.
Johnson, 1965: 69%.
Nixon, 1973: 57%.
Reagan, 1985: 56%.
Clinton, 1997: 59% .
Bush, 2005: 45% .
Looks like 55% of our country is filled with America-hating, liberal, athiest demons. HOW dare they form their own opinions and (gasp) VOICE them! We're supposed to just blindly support our governmental leadership. Or didn't you STUPIDS know that? Like OMIGOD.
Extra! Extra!: According to Gallup, Bush's approval rating tanked this week to 40%. See PollingReport.com
"IRAQ -- AP POLL SHOWS AMERICAN PUBLIC DISAGREES WITH WHITE HOUSE ON MANY KEY ISSUES: Despite White House's efforts to demonize war protesters, an Associated Press-Ipsos poll revealed that nine of 10 people "say it's OK for war opponents to publicly share their concerns about the conflict." Contrary to White House claims of "progress" in Iraq, the poll found that only 37 percent approve of the way the Bush administration is conducting the war. And despite Bush's resistance to admitting any mistakes in Iraq, more than half of all respondents, 53 percent, say the United States made a mistake in going to war in Iraq."
From Gallup:
"NEW YORK
President Bush's approval rating has plunged to the lowest level of any president since World War II at this point in his second term, the Gallup Organization reported today.
Truman, 1949: 57%.
Eisenhower, 1957: 65%.
Johnson, 1965: 69%.
Nixon, 1973: 57%.
Reagan, 1985: 56%.
Clinton, 1997: 59% .
Bush, 2005: 45% .
Looks like 55% of our country is filled with America-hating, liberal, athiest demons. HOW dare they form their own opinions and (gasp) VOICE them! We're supposed to just blindly support our governmental leadership. Or didn't you STUPIDS know that? Like OMIGOD.
Extra! Extra!: According to Gallup, Bush's approval rating tanked this week to 40%. See PollingReport.com
I've learned not to ask...
Why this got stuck in my head this morning.
Jesus loves me
He loves me a bunch
That's why he puts Skippy
In my lunch
Jesus loves me
He loves me a bunch
That's why he puts Skippy
In my lunch
25 August 2005
Random Crap
Blogger Crap:
That list of 7s is interesting. I find it interesting that Cillic took the 5 songs and just added it to the list and everyone seemed to start calling it the Lucky Sevens.
I also wonder if there's something telling in which sections were easiest and hardest to complete for everyone? My hardest was things I can do, and the easiest was things I can't - an interesting way of looking at my pessimism and self doubt huh? I mean - there's lots of things that I CAN do, but how many are interesting enough to make the top 7. Tie my shoes? wipe? ya know? It's weird. Anyone have problems with a particular section?
Baby Crap:
I'm going to a past-due baby shower this weekend. My cousin had an emergency c-section and the shower was postponed until now. She was having siezures and was in and out of the hospital for a while too. Public Service Announcement: If you know anyone taking anti-seizure medication AND using the birth control patch - it don't work. OOPS. I got her a book called The Three Martini Playdate: A Practical Guide to Happy Parenting. It's one of the funniest books I've seen in a while. I have a habit of getting people strange books when they have kids. I figure they have enough pacifiers and onesies and blankets and whatnot, and they probably need a laugh. My favorites thus far are:
Baby's First Tattoo: A Memory Book for Modern Parents
"Millions of people think children are the cutest, cuddliest, most wonderful, saintly creatures in the entire world. These people do not have children. .." This lovely memory book includes all the moments most memory books forget: Baby's first projectile vomit, most parents ever paid for a 2 oz serving of squash, and first time baby ate dirt.
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Troubleshooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance.The great thing about this one is it's not just funny, it's useful. It displays common baby advice that appears in other such books in a funny, owner's manual format, including the handy "parts list". Instructions on how to install and troubleshoot your new baby are entertaining and useful.
Three Martini Playdate: A Practical Guide to Happy Parenting My favorite chapter (yes, I've sneeked a peek) is practical childproofing, how to know when you've gone overboard. The author recounts her experience of almost peeing on her friends floor before figuring out the complicated lock on her toilet seat, wondering how many children really drown in toilets and wouldn't a hook on the door do the trick just as well.
So for my friends, when you have kids, expect one of these or something like it. Except H-Bomb and Cillic - you're getting Nair in addition to a silly book.
Doggie Crap:
Dogs are amazing to me. I know I sound like some new parent saying that their kid is the smartest little twirp in his class, but Annie is a pretty damn smart dog. She now knows that if she sees a squirrel (a word she knows and sends her into a searching frenzy) in one tree, that she should run to the adjacent tree because they jump across. She isn't smart enough, however, to realize that no matter how hard she tries, she can't climb trees.
This morning, I took her out for her morning walk - which is getting harder and harder by the way because 6am is becoming progressively darker. We go around the block, she does her thing, and we're coming back home. Since it was a quick walk, I was going to take her "squirrel hunting" in the park. She loves to chase them. We walk past our house and she goes immediately up the steps. I figure something spooked her (she's still afraid of sudden noises) so I took her inside. She's all excited about something. I take off her leash, and she's running around the apartment, obviously LOOKING for something. I have no idea what her deal is. 2 minutes later, John walks in from outside - scaring the shit out of me I might add. See, he figured he could surprise us at the park, thinking I would take Annie there. He left shortly after we did. Annie didn't see him - but it became clear that the reason she was so excited to go inside is that she knew he was awake. She must have smelled him. Weird huh?
Political Crap:
I know you, my faithful readers, need no more evidence that Pat Robertson is a total idiot. Alas, I just have to ask:
How can one person encourage both communism and Muslim extremism? That's what Pat Robertson accused Hugo Chavez of doing? Wasn't one of the US's big beefs with communism that it was "godless". Supression of religious freedom by supressing religion itself? So pray tell, how can someone advocate both? Just curious.
I loved Jon Stewart's take on this whole thing - that it's nice to be able to say whatever you want if you own your own television station. Emphasizing his point by saying "Fuck" a bunch of times and being bleeped.
That list of 7s is interesting. I find it interesting that Cillic took the 5 songs and just added it to the list and everyone seemed to start calling it the Lucky Sevens.
I also wonder if there's something telling in which sections were easiest and hardest to complete for everyone? My hardest was things I can do, and the easiest was things I can't - an interesting way of looking at my pessimism and self doubt huh? I mean - there's lots of things that I CAN do, but how many are interesting enough to make the top 7. Tie my shoes? wipe? ya know? It's weird. Anyone have problems with a particular section?
Baby Crap:
I'm going to a past-due baby shower this weekend. My cousin had an emergency c-section and the shower was postponed until now. She was having siezures and was in and out of the hospital for a while too. Public Service Announcement: If you know anyone taking anti-seizure medication AND using the birth control patch - it don't work. OOPS. I got her a book called The Three Martini Playdate: A Practical Guide to Happy Parenting. It's one of the funniest books I've seen in a while. I have a habit of getting people strange books when they have kids. I figure they have enough pacifiers and onesies and blankets and whatnot, and they probably need a laugh. My favorites thus far are:
Baby's First Tattoo: A Memory Book for Modern Parents
"Millions of people think children are the cutest, cuddliest, most wonderful, saintly creatures in the entire world. These people do not have children. .." This lovely memory book includes all the moments most memory books forget: Baby's first projectile vomit, most parents ever paid for a 2 oz serving of squash, and first time baby ate dirt.
The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Troubleshooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenance.The great thing about this one is it's not just funny, it's useful. It displays common baby advice that appears in other such books in a funny, owner's manual format, including the handy "parts list". Instructions on how to install and troubleshoot your new baby are entertaining and useful.
Three Martini Playdate: A Practical Guide to Happy Parenting My favorite chapter (yes, I've sneeked a peek) is practical childproofing, how to know when you've gone overboard. The author recounts her experience of almost peeing on her friends floor before figuring out the complicated lock on her toilet seat, wondering how many children really drown in toilets and wouldn't a hook on the door do the trick just as well.
So for my friends, when you have kids, expect one of these or something like it. Except H-Bomb and Cillic - you're getting Nair in addition to a silly book.
Doggie Crap:
Dogs are amazing to me. I know I sound like some new parent saying that their kid is the smartest little twirp in his class, but Annie is a pretty damn smart dog. She now knows that if she sees a squirrel (a word she knows and sends her into a searching frenzy) in one tree, that she should run to the adjacent tree because they jump across. She isn't smart enough, however, to realize that no matter how hard she tries, she can't climb trees.
This morning, I took her out for her morning walk - which is getting harder and harder by the way because 6am is becoming progressively darker. We go around the block, she does her thing, and we're coming back home. Since it was a quick walk, I was going to take her "squirrel hunting" in the park. She loves to chase them. We walk past our house and she goes immediately up the steps. I figure something spooked her (she's still afraid of sudden noises) so I took her inside. She's all excited about something. I take off her leash, and she's running around the apartment, obviously LOOKING for something. I have no idea what her deal is. 2 minutes later, John walks in from outside - scaring the shit out of me I might add. See, he figured he could surprise us at the park, thinking I would take Annie there. He left shortly after we did. Annie didn't see him - but it became clear that the reason she was so excited to go inside is that she knew he was awake. She must have smelled him. Weird huh?
Political Crap:
I know you, my faithful readers, need no more evidence that Pat Robertson is a total idiot. Alas, I just have to ask:
How can one person encourage both communism and Muslim extremism? That's what Pat Robertson accused Hugo Chavez of doing? Wasn't one of the US's big beefs with communism that it was "godless". Supression of religious freedom by supressing religion itself? So pray tell, how can someone advocate both? Just curious.
I loved Jon Stewart's take on this whole thing - that it's nice to be able to say whatever you want if you own your own television station. Emphasizing his point by saying "Fuck" a bunch of times and being bleeped.
24 August 2005
Lucky Sevens
7 Things you plan to do before you die.
1. Go to Japan, Alaska, Italy, Ireland, Israel/Palestine and England
(and other places, but I didn't want to use all 7 spaces and those are tops on my list)
2. Finish my Master's
3. Publish something (my thesis would be nice, but I doubt it will be worthy)
4. Go scuba diving
5. Teach
6. Get at least 2 more tattoos
7. Buy a house
7 Things you can do.
1. Spew my brainfarts into cyberspace
2. Be sarcastic
3. Read a map
4. Quantitative research
5. Whistle most the pieces from Amadeus from memory
6. Curl my tongue
7. Cook
7 Things you can't do.
1. Multivariate statistics
2. Remember names
3. Tolerate ignorance
4. Live in the suburbs
5. Eat octopus
6. Draw
7. Walk in high heels
7 Things that attract you to the opposite sex.
1. Eyes
2. Honesty
3. Self Confidence
4. Sense of Humor
5. Mutual respect
6. Intelligence
7. Smile
7 Things you say most.
1. Fuck
2. Chriiist
3. Dude
4. (to the dog) Gotta go potty?
5. Oy (I'm not Jewish, but it's such a good general expression)
6. Heya
7. I love you (aawwwwwwwwww)
7 Celebrity crushes.
1. Johnny Depp
2. Jason Lee
3. Chris Cornell
4. Denzel
5. Young Marlon Brando (it didn't say "alive")
6. Nick Cage
7. Harrison Ford (a la Indy not Han Solo)
7 People you want to take this quiz.
Nah, I won't antagonize anyone in particular. if you like - feel free. If you post it on your blog, lemme know.
And another one of these 5 Songs I'm currently digging
American Music by The Violent Femmes
Verdis Quo by Daft Punk
Somebody Told me by The Killers
Pencil Thin Mustache by Jimmy Buffett
Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood by Santa Esmeralda (Kill Bill Soundtrack)
1. Go to Japan, Alaska, Italy, Ireland, Israel/Palestine and England
(and other places, but I didn't want to use all 7 spaces and those are tops on my list)
2. Finish my Master's
3. Publish something (my thesis would be nice, but I doubt it will be worthy)
4. Go scuba diving
5. Teach
6. Get at least 2 more tattoos
7. Buy a house
7 Things you can do.
1. Spew my brainfarts into cyberspace
2. Be sarcastic
3. Read a map
4. Quantitative research
5. Whistle most the pieces from Amadeus from memory
6. Curl my tongue
7. Cook
7 Things you can't do.
1. Multivariate statistics
2. Remember names
3. Tolerate ignorance
4. Live in the suburbs
5. Eat octopus
6. Draw
7. Walk in high heels
7 Things that attract you to the opposite sex.
1. Eyes
2. Honesty
3. Self Confidence
4. Sense of Humor
5. Mutual respect
6. Intelligence
7. Smile
7 Things you say most.
1. Fuck
2. Chriiist
3. Dude
4. (to the dog) Gotta go potty?
5. Oy (I'm not Jewish, but it's such a good general expression)
6. Heya
7. I love you (aawwwwwwwwww)
7 Celebrity crushes.
1. Johnny Depp
2. Jason Lee
3. Chris Cornell
4. Denzel
5. Young Marlon Brando (it didn't say "alive")
6. Nick Cage
7. Harrison Ford (a la Indy not Han Solo)
7 People you want to take this quiz.
Nah, I won't antagonize anyone in particular. if you like - feel free. If you post it on your blog, lemme know.
And another one of these 5 Songs I'm currently digging
American Music by The Violent Femmes
Verdis Quo by Daft Punk
Somebody Told me by The Killers
Pencil Thin Mustache by Jimmy Buffett
Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood by Santa Esmeralda (Kill Bill Soundtrack)
23 August 2005
Rant: College Rankings or Don't Let A Marketing Ploy Influence Such A Big Decision
A public service announcement for all those looking for colleges or helping someone else look for colleges. Many of you may already know or suspect this, but some may not.
I remember when I was looking for colleges (though I only had one in mind that I really wanted to go to) we got the little guidbooks and such. Those are worth the money you pay for them - Peterson's in my opinion is the best and most informative.
The one you should avoid the most is US News and World Report, Best Colleges. The reason is this: Best for who? That is a question they cannot answer, because their methodology is skewed towards the four-year, residential, research-oriented, traditional full-time colleges like Harvard, U of C, Northwestern, etc. Basically the rankings are one big circle-jerk for the schools with the largest endowments and research grants, most competitive students, highest selectivity, and richest alumni.
The reason for this is the formula they use to derive the ranks - which, of course, they won't share in its entirety with educational researchers since, well, then they wouldn't be able to sell magazines. Certain aspects are weighted more heavily than others, tipping the scales to more traditional schools. US News gotten better, with their "planning tools" but the main selling point for the issue is the rankings - and those themselves are a bunch of horseshit.
I won't get into the methodology, but if you're interested, you can find it here.
I know, this may sound like sour grapes coming from someone who has worked at non-first-tier schools. But it's not. If they put out a standard guide that would be one thing, but to artificially label schools "best" is another. They're really only the best schools for a very particular kind of student - namely an 18-year old, new Freshman, intending to live on campus, attend full-time for four years and go on to graduate school. According to the National Center for Education Statistics 37% of undergraduates in Fall 2004 attended college part-time and about one-third of new undergraduates at four-year universities in Fall 2004 entered as transfers.
Is Harvard or Yale best for them? Or the 30 year-old mother of two deciding to finish her Bachelor's degree? Not really. I'm not saying it's wrong to strive for Harvard. I'm just saying that the rankings set the precedent that Harvar is the best for everyone. Maybe they have the biggest endowment and international recognition, and it is an outstanding school - for a certain type of student. But it's not the best FIT for everyone, and it shouldn't be promoted as such.
Then there's the raucous these things cause within University administrations. Every september it's the same... Everyone needs to know where we ranked! And they need to know it NOW or the sky will fall! You try explaining, in vain, that it's really not that important, that we increased or decreased two points. That it was because of a shift in the formula not because of some new policy. That in reality it means nothing.
But reality and marketing are two different worlds. It only means nothing from a methodological point of view. From the marketing perspective it means free advertising if you make one of the high tiers. It means word of mouth and reputation.
But it's only a marketing tool because people buy them and make it into o. It only matters because mommy and daddy want "the best" for little Timmy - maybe not realizing that "the best" for little Timmy isn't necessarily the same as "the best" for little Tammy down the block. They want to be able to tout that their little darling got into "the best" college in the country (going back to my hatred of parents that use their kids as props in their social dramas). There's nothing wrong with wanting the best for yourself or your kids - but think about what the best means them. It could mean going to a community college for a couple years and transferring. It could mean going part-time so they can work. And it could mean Harvard.
So people, please, make my life easier and stop buying that damn thing!
Use the guidebooks and online search tools offered by Peterson's. They collect the same data as US News, in addition to more in-depth information on programs of study, and they don't try to tell you what's best for you.
I remember when I was looking for colleges (though I only had one in mind that I really wanted to go to) we got the little guidbooks and such. Those are worth the money you pay for them - Peterson's in my opinion is the best and most informative.
The one you should avoid the most is US News and World Report, Best Colleges. The reason is this: Best for who? That is a question they cannot answer, because their methodology is skewed towards the four-year, residential, research-oriented, traditional full-time colleges like Harvard, U of C, Northwestern, etc. Basically the rankings are one big circle-jerk for the schools with the largest endowments and research grants, most competitive students, highest selectivity, and richest alumni.
The reason for this is the formula they use to derive the ranks - which, of course, they won't share in its entirety with educational researchers since, well, then they wouldn't be able to sell magazines. Certain aspects are weighted more heavily than others, tipping the scales to more traditional schools. US News gotten better, with their "planning tools" but the main selling point for the issue is the rankings - and those themselves are a bunch of horseshit.
I won't get into the methodology, but if you're interested, you can find it here.
I know, this may sound like sour grapes coming from someone who has worked at non-first-tier schools. But it's not. If they put out a standard guide that would be one thing, but to artificially label schools "best" is another. They're really only the best schools for a very particular kind of student - namely an 18-year old, new Freshman, intending to live on campus, attend full-time for four years and go on to graduate school. According to the National Center for Education Statistics 37% of undergraduates in Fall 2004 attended college part-time and about one-third of new undergraduates at four-year universities in Fall 2004 entered as transfers.
Is Harvard or Yale best for them? Or the 30 year-old mother of two deciding to finish her Bachelor's degree? Not really. I'm not saying it's wrong to strive for Harvard. I'm just saying that the rankings set the precedent that Harvar is the best for everyone. Maybe they have the biggest endowment and international recognition, and it is an outstanding school - for a certain type of student. But it's not the best FIT for everyone, and it shouldn't be promoted as such.
Then there's the raucous these things cause within University administrations. Every september it's the same... Everyone needs to know where we ranked! And they need to know it NOW or the sky will fall! You try explaining, in vain, that it's really not that important, that we increased or decreased two points. That it was because of a shift in the formula not because of some new policy. That in reality it means nothing.
But reality and marketing are two different worlds. It only means nothing from a methodological point of view. From the marketing perspective it means free advertising if you make one of the high tiers. It means word of mouth and reputation.
But it's only a marketing tool because people buy them and make it into o. It only matters because mommy and daddy want "the best" for little Timmy - maybe not realizing that "the best" for little Timmy isn't necessarily the same as "the best" for little Tammy down the block. They want to be able to tout that their little darling got into "the best" college in the country (going back to my hatred of parents that use their kids as props in their social dramas). There's nothing wrong with wanting the best for yourself or your kids - but think about what the best means them. It could mean going to a community college for a couple years and transferring. It could mean going part-time so they can work. And it could mean Harvard.
So people, please, make my life easier and stop buying that damn thing!
Use the guidebooks and online search tools offered by Peterson's. They collect the same data as US News, in addition to more in-depth information on programs of study, and they don't try to tell you what's best for you.
22 August 2005
Fabulous Thunderbirds
So I went Saturday with the Queen of the Universe to her friend's 25th floor condo overlooking North Ave Beach to watch the Air & Water Show. What a view from the balcony! To the right, Hancock to the left - Lake Michigan, as far as the curvature of the Earth. That is the only way to watch the show in my opinion, as I hate crowds. After the show was over we got to watch the droves flee from the ant farm that was Lincoln Park.
So we got to see a Harrier hover over the lake, a B-52 bomber fly over downtown (scary thing that is if it's not on your side, lemme tell ya). There were some F-15s spinning upside down and whatnot. Four stunt prop-planes doing loops in the air. Then there were some parachute drops over the city - which man, with that wind you have to know what you're doing. They actually landed on the tiny strip of sand south of North Ave. At one point we saw 4 guys jump (or so we thought) and one looked like he was just falling, then it inverted and what we thought was a person got caught in the chute that didn't open and just fell. We thought for a few minutes "I hope that wasn't a person!" The radio said it was a spare chute one guy had to ditch because it didn't open.
Then the 6 Thunderbirds came (The Air Force's version of the Blue Angels). They did a few things and then they stopped and two planes just left. We knew something was wrong, but we didn't see anything happen. We saw the boats start to gather in one area and circle, and that's when the radio said something fell off one of the planes into the lake. Turns out a missle rail fell off one of the wing tips, so the Thunderbirds got grounded.
"The Air Force canceled a performance by the Thunderbirds precision flying team after two of the group's F-16 fighter jets touched in flight on Saturday, sending a missile rail from one of the aircraft plunging into Lake Michigan about 2,500 feet from spectators on North Avenue Beach."
--Chicago Tribune
"The midair collision occurred with the F-16s in diamond formation, speeding along the lakefront at 350 mph."
--Chicato Sun-Times
Yipes - that could have been REALLY bad. Especially since they fly only 18 inches apart at times. And it's not like they're over a field or anything - they're over the lakefront, apartment buildings, people's homes. They're grounded until further notice - which is the safe thing to do.
I like the air show, it's really fun to watch. But I hate that recruiters set up shop there. I know, I know, that's WHY they do the airshows - to show everyone how great the US Military is. But at the same time - the pilots and crews performing in the air shows are the tip-top of each of their divisions. Some 19-year old schlep might actually believe a recruiter who told him "you could be a thunderbird too son" when in fact he'd most likely end up as Earl the fuel boy. If they're being honest in their methods (some are, some aren't) then I have no problem. But they shouldn't be allowed to pump up the hopes of 18 year old kids that maybe someday they'll be in that cockpit. The chances of that are pretty slim in the long run.
So we got to see a Harrier hover over the lake, a B-52 bomber fly over downtown (scary thing that is if it's not on your side, lemme tell ya). There were some F-15s spinning upside down and whatnot. Four stunt prop-planes doing loops in the air. Then there were some parachute drops over the city - which man, with that wind you have to know what you're doing. They actually landed on the tiny strip of sand south of North Ave. At one point we saw 4 guys jump (or so we thought) and one looked like he was just falling, then it inverted and what we thought was a person got caught in the chute that didn't open and just fell. We thought for a few minutes "I hope that wasn't a person!" The radio said it was a spare chute one guy had to ditch because it didn't open.
Then the 6 Thunderbirds came (The Air Force's version of the Blue Angels). They did a few things and then they stopped and two planes just left. We knew something was wrong, but we didn't see anything happen. We saw the boats start to gather in one area and circle, and that's when the radio said something fell off one of the planes into the lake. Turns out a missle rail fell off one of the wing tips, so the Thunderbirds got grounded.
"The Air Force canceled a performance by the Thunderbirds precision flying team after two of the group's F-16 fighter jets touched in flight on Saturday, sending a missile rail from one of the aircraft plunging into Lake Michigan about 2,500 feet from spectators on North Avenue Beach."
--Chicago Tribune
"The midair collision occurred with the F-16s in diamond formation, speeding along the lakefront at 350 mph."
--Chicato Sun-Times
Yipes - that could have been REALLY bad. Especially since they fly only 18 inches apart at times. And it's not like they're over a field or anything - they're over the lakefront, apartment buildings, people's homes. They're grounded until further notice - which is the safe thing to do.
I like the air show, it's really fun to watch. But I hate that recruiters set up shop there. I know, I know, that's WHY they do the airshows - to show everyone how great the US Military is. But at the same time - the pilots and crews performing in the air shows are the tip-top of each of their divisions. Some 19-year old schlep might actually believe a recruiter who told him "you could be a thunderbird too son" when in fact he'd most likely end up as Earl the fuel boy. If they're being honest in their methods (some are, some aren't) then I have no problem. But they shouldn't be allowed to pump up the hopes of 18 year old kids that maybe someday they'll be in that cockpit. The chances of that are pretty slim in the long run.
21 August 2005
More on flags
The Queen of the Universe figured out that anyone who has posted since last week has a flag button, but the flag button is not an actual flag - it just gives you the option to flag the blog. Blogger then decides if you really should be flagged.
What I want to know is, how do you determine if you have been flagged?
What I want to know is, how do you determine if you have been flagged?
20 August 2005
Blatant Theivery
I've stolen this off SecretRudy's blog. If you're looking for a one-stop-shop of odd internet content - see Rudy, he's the master.
I felt that you, constant reader, would enjoy.
I felt that you, constant reader, would enjoy.
An Exercise in Patience
That's what the Queen of the Universe called Great America (the Chicago-area Six-Flags theme park). We went yesterday with my folks, and it was surprisingly empty. I know it's an off day and all, but it's still summer. There were only long waits on a few rides (Superman, Dejavu - which we didn't go on because it was 2hrs, and the Eagle). The Eagle is one of the greatest roller coasters ever, in my opinion. It was built in 1981, and at the time, had the largest drop of any wooden roller coaster (147 ft, at 55 degrees, reaching 66mph). What makes it special though is that it runs two tracks, side by side. Sometimes they race them, and other times, like yesterday, they run one train backwards. We didn't go backwards because that's just insane. It took a lot longer than we thought though, because they usually run 2 trains on each track, load one while the other is starting. For whatever reason, they were only running one each. That makes me sad because I think the Eagle is not long for this world. It's just not as big of a draw as the steel monstrosities anymore. But it's a great ride.
During the wait for Superman, in an effort to entertain the sheep in the corral, they had wooden cut-outs of superman characters, with their stats (including height, weight - really cheeseball). So we're standing in line, and off to the side there's a walkway for passers by. John thinks I'm looking at the cutout of Doomsday, when I'm really amazed at the bohemoth of an ass that just walked by. This woman's ass was enormous - four times the size of mine I'd say. Thinking I'm reading about Doomsday, John says "That's the only thing that ever killed Superman" and I just busted up. "What, her ass?" we got a good laugh out of that one.
I also saw a woman walking around with a full Iranian chador (a black head covering veil with just a slit for her eyes). Her two friends were wearing the standard hijab (usually a veil made of nice fabric covering her hair and neck). I've seen them before, but never up close and never in such an odd juxtoposition of culture. Here we are in Great America, people running around, screaming, being gluttonous pigs. It was interesting. Hijab is probably one of the most debated Muslim customs for Western feminists. Westerners see that as a form of oppression, but many women who wear hijab will tell you that it's a) their commitment to their faith or b) it frees them from becoming sex objects to the world. Most of them will also tell you that hijab is the LEAST of the worries for women in the Muslim world, but that westerners focus on it because it's such a compelling image and is more media-friendly than boring discussions of marital laws or educational reform. I say as long as it's the woman deciding if she wants to show her committment in that way, then I could care. At the same time, where is the line between social pressure and free choice? Definitely one of the more interesting debates within the world of cross-cultural feminism.
That brings me to safety issues. Anyone ridden on a carosel lately? We had to have seat belts on the fucking carosel! What is that going to do, really? If you fall off a carosel horse and fall a whole 3 feet to the ground, what's the belt going to do except suspend you, sideways from the side of the horse, kicking and screaming and possibly hurting you more? I mean, come on! I know it's the sue-or-be-sued culture we live in, but it's ridiculous. Little Timmy bumped his head, give me $2 million. There should be a disclaimer on the back of the ticket saying "barring mechanical malfunction of a ride, if you hurt yourself here it's not our fault, fuck off".
During the wait for Superman, in an effort to entertain the sheep in the corral, they had wooden cut-outs of superman characters, with their stats (including height, weight - really cheeseball). So we're standing in line, and off to the side there's a walkway for passers by. John thinks I'm looking at the cutout of Doomsday, when I'm really amazed at the bohemoth of an ass that just walked by. This woman's ass was enormous - four times the size of mine I'd say. Thinking I'm reading about Doomsday, John says "That's the only thing that ever killed Superman" and I just busted up. "What, her ass?" we got a good laugh out of that one.
I also saw a woman walking around with a full Iranian chador (a black head covering veil with just a slit for her eyes). Her two friends were wearing the standard hijab (usually a veil made of nice fabric covering her hair and neck). I've seen them before, but never up close and never in such an odd juxtoposition of culture. Here we are in Great America, people running around, screaming, being gluttonous pigs. It was interesting. Hijab is probably one of the most debated Muslim customs for Western feminists. Westerners see that as a form of oppression, but many women who wear hijab will tell you that it's a) their commitment to their faith or b) it frees them from becoming sex objects to the world. Most of them will also tell you that hijab is the LEAST of the worries for women in the Muslim world, but that westerners focus on it because it's such a compelling image and is more media-friendly than boring discussions of marital laws or educational reform. I say as long as it's the woman deciding if she wants to show her committment in that way, then I could care. At the same time, where is the line between social pressure and free choice? Definitely one of the more interesting debates within the world of cross-cultural feminism.
That brings me to safety issues. Anyone ridden on a carosel lately? We had to have seat belts on the fucking carosel! What is that going to do, really? If you fall off a carosel horse and fall a whole 3 feet to the ground, what's the belt going to do except suspend you, sideways from the side of the horse, kicking and screaming and possibly hurting you more? I mean, come on! I know it's the sue-or-be-sued culture we live in, but it's ridiculous. Little Timmy bumped his head, give me $2 million. There should be a disclaimer on the back of the ticket saying "barring mechanical malfunction of a ride, if you hurt yourself here it's not our fault, fuck off".
18 August 2005
do you have a FLAG??
Sorry, no flag no blog.
For all those poor Eddie Izzard Ignoramuses, that's from "Dress to Kill".
So John noticed I have a Flag button at the top, right hand corner of my blog now - see it? Blogger is starting to flag "questionable content" so that it doesn't come up in their listings, but is still available on the web. We thought at first it was the NAMBLA post, but it seems everyone I blog with has this little flag now - go check yours, it's there. Except for the Great White Bear - he's totally clean.
Isn't that odd?
At first I was all jazzed, wearing that like a badge of honor, but all you schleps seem to have them, so I guess it's nothing special :-p
For all those poor Eddie Izzard Ignoramuses, that's from "Dress to Kill".
So John noticed I have a Flag button at the top, right hand corner of my blog now - see it? Blogger is starting to flag "questionable content" so that it doesn't come up in their listings, but is still available on the web. We thought at first it was the NAMBLA post, but it seems everyone I blog with has this little flag now - go check yours, it's there. Except for the Great White Bear - he's totally clean.
Isn't that odd?
At first I was all jazzed, wearing that like a badge of honor, but all you schleps seem to have them, so I guess it's nothing special :-p
DPA: Addressing Meth as a Public Health Issue
"The problem of methamphetamine abuse has the attention of the country. The media has captured it with horrifying pictorial spreads and catchy terms like "meth babies" and "meth mouth," while lawmakers are inundating legislatures with bills to raise minimum sentences and restrict access to materials used to make methamphetamine. It is easy to be seduced by dramatic headlines about the nation's latest drug epidemic, but that hype should not change the underlying premise of how to deal with the problem.
Sensational reporting and legislating aside, methamphetamine abuse should be addressed as a public health, not a criminal justice issue. This means focusing on creating more effective preventive education, increasing treatment resources, promoting harm reduction measures, and dealing with the environmental consequences of methamphetamine labs...
...Over half the people who enter Prop 36 are methamphetamine users, according to a new UCLA report, and those users have the same rate of treatment success as users of other drugs."
Sensational reporting and legislating aside, methamphetamine abuse should be addressed as a public health, not a criminal justice issue. This means focusing on creating more effective preventive education, increasing treatment resources, promoting harm reduction measures, and dealing with the environmental consequences of methamphetamine labs...
...Over half the people who enter Prop 36 are methamphetamine users, according to a new UCLA report, and those users have the same rate of treatment success as users of other drugs."
Babies Everywhere!
The Queen of the Universe and I went to visit our friends who just had a baby boy, and I agree, he looks like a little buddha. Well, a white buddha, but we are all one in the nothingness so he could be green as far as Siddartha would care. I do have to wonder where baby fat comes from, seeing how both his parents are sticks. We had a nice visit. Their daughter is about two now and she's handled the transition very well. She's talking more, though I must admit I have a hard time determining if she's babbling in English or Ukranian, since they're teaching her both.
Today at work will be roaring good fun. They'll be rehearsing for the Air & Water show this afternoon. Apparently it's the largest of its kind in the nation. Since I hate people, however, I shant be marching to North Avenue Beach with 1,000,000 of my closest friends. I may go to a private party in a highrise overlooking the beach though. That would be something I can handle. There's nothing stranger than looking out your window to see fighter jets fly by. My cynical side says this would be the weekend to fly a plane into a building - no one would notice an unauthorized plan flying over downtown, and those fighter jets - totally unarmed. The other best time, of course, being during the monthy air-raid/tornado siren test. I always feel sorry for the poor tourists or new arrivals who probably think they're under attack - it's quite an intimidating sound. I just look up and say "oh, first tuesday, 10am, yep".
Today at work will be roaring good fun. They'll be rehearsing for the Air & Water show this afternoon. Apparently it's the largest of its kind in the nation. Since I hate people, however, I shant be marching to North Avenue Beach with 1,000,000 of my closest friends. I may go to a private party in a highrise overlooking the beach though. That would be something I can handle. There's nothing stranger than looking out your window to see fighter jets fly by. My cynical side says this would be the weekend to fly a plane into a building - no one would notice an unauthorized plan flying over downtown, and those fighter jets - totally unarmed. The other best time, of course, being during the monthy air-raid/tornado siren test. I always feel sorry for the poor tourists or new arrivals who probably think they're under attack - it's quite an intimidating sound. I just look up and say "oh, first tuesday, 10am, yep".
16 August 2005
Quick Question
Imagine coming home from a long day at work to this gem of a question:
John: "What's creepier, a NAMBLA Christmas Card or a NAMBLA Valentine?"
After a few seconds of "whaaaaaaaa?" I reply, NAMBLA daycare... but that's just my sick sense of humor. I guess given those two choices, I would have to say Valentine, especially if you're under 16.
Thanks to South Park, I now know that NAMBLA is, the North American Man Boy Love Association - yes, it's a real organization promoting pedophilia.
Apparently he'd been talking to Donna about this Whitehouse.org article and it just cascaded from there... Such are the oddities of my life.
By the way - as far as political satire goes - it doesn't get much better than Whitehouse.org
Edited to add: So what do you think? Christmas or Valentine?
John: "What's creepier, a NAMBLA Christmas Card or a NAMBLA Valentine?"
After a few seconds of "whaaaaaaaa?" I reply, NAMBLA daycare... but that's just my sick sense of humor. I guess given those two choices, I would have to say Valentine, especially if you're under 16.
Thanks to South Park, I now know that NAMBLA is, the North American Man Boy Love Association - yes, it's a real organization promoting pedophilia.
Apparently he'd been talking to Donna about this Whitehouse.org article and it just cascaded from there... Such are the oddities of my life.
By the way - as far as political satire goes - it doesn't get much better than Whitehouse.org
Edited to add: So what do you think? Christmas or Valentine?
Gotta Love Charlie Madigan
He's a columnist/editor for the Tribune and I love his writing style:
God's imperfect world
If God's so intelligent, why is every last thing on Earth so messed up?
Published August 16, 2005
As best I can tell, the intelligent design argument holds that God created everything and somehow decided, in the process, female praying mantises should chomp the heads from their mates as soon as they have done the deed for reasons that, to me, would suggest sooner or later the boys are going to get the message and then ...
No more praying mantises!
I don't mind buying a good dinner before mating, which is a part of our treasured food-and-movie-in-exchange-for-sex cultural history, but I don't want to be dinner afterward. That's how I would view it as a male praying mantis.
God also decided that raccoons should have markings that look like sunglasses, cats should present a collection of adorable behaviors that hone killing instincts and dogs should like to sniff and lick fresh minor wounds and store the memory away just in case someday you should become an available meal.
Further, God filled the oceans up with such a creepy collection of unlikely things you would never go to the beach again if you could see some of them gathered in one place. I'm talking bug-eyed fish with teeth like needles and marshmallow-size glow-in-the-dark lures hanging from their noses.
And when he created man and woman, in addition to busting out a rib and gathering up a wad of clay to complete the girls, he decided to install a useless part, the appendix, that would sometimes go bad. He also decided to make our shoulder joints so complicated they would trouble us much of our lives because, basically, they were designed to support something that walked on all fours.
Then he said, "Let there be bowel disorders!"
He decided that women would get severe cramps every month even though, happily, nothing was wrong and men of a certain age would become sexually stimulated at an instant's notice, watching a train go into a tunnel or waves breaking on the beach, or stallions on television, or even walking past women at the perfume counter.
Or in church.
And then later in life, just when you might need that kind of thing, well no way, fellow, your spontaneous days are over!
Whoops, I've said too much.
What a jokester that God was.
Hence, I am not buying intelligent design.
I do believe strongly in God. I give him a great deal of credit for whatever it is that he does. But why would he create so many unusual pieces, given the power to make it all perfect? If we're so hot, why do we all wear out so quickly? Why do we lose our teeth? Why do beans create wind? Why are we sometimes vicious? Why do we drink too much? Curse? Make trouble?
A perfect God setting out to make a whole universe could do a lot better, one would think, because as we were taught, God can do anything.
On the other side, we have folks who argue that the whole shebang was the result of an explosion that led to some chemical developments that created interesting pond scum out of which crawled something that evolved, in time, into Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt (one of whom, apparently, was not far from the pond).
Along the way, survival of the fittest ensured that only smart, tough, good, aggressive things made it through this challenge. It makes sense. That's why we have evolved into such perfect beings, because all of the weakness has been bred out and eliminated by evolution. We are grand.
See, it's that simple! Science has all the answers.
I am trying to work up my own scenario that would include both my strong belief in God and my need to recognize that it is probably rational to conclude monkeys were among our ancestors. That at least explains our sense of humor, our youthful tendency toward lots of body hair and our affection for bananas.
I have drifted beyond the pale in this examination. I now feel, for example, that there is no conflict between believing God was involved at the very beginning and embracing, fully, lots of evolutionary rhetoric that makes abundant good sense, at least to me.
What if God just said to the bubbling pond scum, "Be not afraid, someday you will be Jennifer Aniston" and then let it play out, good, bad or ugly, over all of time?
I can't prove any of this, of course.
But neither can you, so you should all just shut up and stop fighting over what can't be known and, beyond everything else, thank goodness that you are not a male mantis in a mating mood.
God's imperfect world
If God's so intelligent, why is every last thing on Earth so messed up?
Published August 16, 2005
As best I can tell, the intelligent design argument holds that God created everything and somehow decided, in the process, female praying mantises should chomp the heads from their mates as soon as they have done the deed for reasons that, to me, would suggest sooner or later the boys are going to get the message and then ...
No more praying mantises!
I don't mind buying a good dinner before mating, which is a part of our treasured food-and-movie-in-exchange-for-sex cultural history, but I don't want to be dinner afterward. That's how I would view it as a male praying mantis.
God also decided that raccoons should have markings that look like sunglasses, cats should present a collection of adorable behaviors that hone killing instincts and dogs should like to sniff and lick fresh minor wounds and store the memory away just in case someday you should become an available meal.
Further, God filled the oceans up with such a creepy collection of unlikely things you would never go to the beach again if you could see some of them gathered in one place. I'm talking bug-eyed fish with teeth like needles and marshmallow-size glow-in-the-dark lures hanging from their noses.
And when he created man and woman, in addition to busting out a rib and gathering up a wad of clay to complete the girls, he decided to install a useless part, the appendix, that would sometimes go bad. He also decided to make our shoulder joints so complicated they would trouble us much of our lives because, basically, they were designed to support something that walked on all fours.
Then he said, "Let there be bowel disorders!"
He decided that women would get severe cramps every month even though, happily, nothing was wrong and men of a certain age would become sexually stimulated at an instant's notice, watching a train go into a tunnel or waves breaking on the beach, or stallions on television, or even walking past women at the perfume counter.
Or in church.
And then later in life, just when you might need that kind of thing, well no way, fellow, your spontaneous days are over!
Whoops, I've said too much.
What a jokester that God was.
Hence, I am not buying intelligent design.
I do believe strongly in God. I give him a great deal of credit for whatever it is that he does. But why would he create so many unusual pieces, given the power to make it all perfect? If we're so hot, why do we all wear out so quickly? Why do we lose our teeth? Why do beans create wind? Why are we sometimes vicious? Why do we drink too much? Curse? Make trouble?
A perfect God setting out to make a whole universe could do a lot better, one would think, because as we were taught, God can do anything.
On the other side, we have folks who argue that the whole shebang was the result of an explosion that led to some chemical developments that created interesting pond scum out of which crawled something that evolved, in time, into Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt (one of whom, apparently, was not far from the pond).
Along the way, survival of the fittest ensured that only smart, tough, good, aggressive things made it through this challenge. It makes sense. That's why we have evolved into such perfect beings, because all of the weakness has been bred out and eliminated by evolution. We are grand.
See, it's that simple! Science has all the answers.
I am trying to work up my own scenario that would include both my strong belief in God and my need to recognize that it is probably rational to conclude monkeys were among our ancestors. That at least explains our sense of humor, our youthful tendency toward lots of body hair and our affection for bananas.
I have drifted beyond the pale in this examination. I now feel, for example, that there is no conflict between believing God was involved at the very beginning and embracing, fully, lots of evolutionary rhetoric that makes abundant good sense, at least to me.
What if God just said to the bubbling pond scum, "Be not afraid, someday you will be Jennifer Aniston" and then let it play out, good, bad or ugly, over all of time?
I can't prove any of this, of course.
But neither can you, so you should all just shut up and stop fighting over what can't be known and, beyond everything else, thank goodness that you are not a male mantis in a mating mood.
15 August 2005
Summer is fading
you know how I can tell? Because I'm more tired lately. I've got seasonal depression, and as the days get darker, I get more sluggish. I'm like a plant, I need sunlight. It'll be fun to watch me drag my ass out of bed at 6am to walk the dog in December. My guess is it won't be happening.
We'll see how this year goes, but I may have to dig up the pills. Maybe invest in a lightbox this year. Yes, they actually make special lamps that emit a certain intensity of light similar to sunlight and it actually triggers chemicals in the brain to counteract depression - weird huh? Or maybe I should just try some vitamins :P
It is extremely hard to concentrate on tedious crap like pages of little numbers when your mind is constantly drifting off. It's only 4pm and I'm already thinking about bedtime... ugh.
We'll see how this year goes, but I may have to dig up the pills. Maybe invest in a lightbox this year. Yes, they actually make special lamps that emit a certain intensity of light similar to sunlight and it actually triggers chemicals in the brain to counteract depression - weird huh? Or maybe I should just try some vitamins :P
It is extremely hard to concentrate on tedious crap like pages of little numbers when your mind is constantly drifting off. It's only 4pm and I'm already thinking about bedtime... ugh.
Backing down...
Some people call me stubborned. So be it. Backing down from a challenge is something I do not do easilly. This is not to say my opinions never change in light of new evidence - I'm not pigheaded - just stubborned. If someone tells me I can't do something, that makes me more likely to do it. Sometimes that's a weakness, other times a strength.
I made an off-handed comment on ZombieSlayer's blog in response to someone else's snarky reply:
Laura said... I think the Israelis would have a problem with that ;-)
Since that was not the subject of the blog, I didn't mean to open that can of worms, but I can't help it, it's what popped in my head, and I don't censor myself. I have a sick sense of humor. Sue me.
There was a brief discussion of the subject, to which there was this response:
An Israeli said...
Gotta love democracy! Keep your opinion to yourself? Sorry, no can do buddy.
First - I don't base my opinions on this subject solely on newsreports - to do so is stupid, as yes, I agree, they are skewed. But I have read accounts of the conflict from people on both sides of the issue. I can see it from each party's perpsective.
Second - I do not have to actually visit a place to understand what is happening there. That's what books are for. I don't have to travel to Rwanda to empathize with what happened there, I don't have to teleport myself back in time to understand Pol Pot's Cambodia, I don't have to be Israeli or Palestinian to see events from anothers' point of view.
So - I open it up for you, so as not to bog down ZSs post about .50 caliber rifles with the Middle East conflict.
You can't simplifiy the situation in Israel/Palestine into laying blame. The blame lies squarely on BOTH parties. Each side has acted in deplorable ways toward the other. World governments are also to blame, particularly the British & French, for manipulating events in that region toward their colonial goals. America's historically unwavering support of Israel is also to blame, a one-sided approach will not solve the problem. So in a nutshell, Israel has a right to exist - absolutely. But so does an independent Palestinian state. How do we get there? I have no idea. Generations of political and religious hatred cannot be solved easily. But we need to try, because both Israelis and Palestinians deserve the right to live in peace. Is the Gaza pullout a good thing? That remains to be seen.
And never, ever tell me I don't have a right to discuss something or have (or voice) my opinion.
I made an off-handed comment on ZombieSlayer's blog in response to someone else's snarky reply:
Laura said... I think the Israelis would have a problem with that ;-)
Since that was not the subject of the blog, I didn't mean to open that can of worms, but I can't help it, it's what popped in my head, and I don't censor myself. I have a sick sense of humor. Sue me.
There was a brief discussion of the subject, to which there was this response:
An Israeli said...
I don't typically post the type of response I'm about to post, but I have to say something because I find it very frustrating.
All of you who have never been to Israel, never lived in Israel and cannot read Hebrew - keep your opinions to yourselves.
Your understanding of the events in the Middle East is based on the media's skewed point of view.
Sign me,
An Israeli blogger
Gotta love democracy! Keep your opinion to yourself? Sorry, no can do buddy.
First - I don't base my opinions on this subject solely on newsreports - to do so is stupid, as yes, I agree, they are skewed. But I have read accounts of the conflict from people on both sides of the issue. I can see it from each party's perpsective.
Second - I do not have to actually visit a place to understand what is happening there. That's what books are for. I don't have to travel to Rwanda to empathize with what happened there, I don't have to teleport myself back in time to understand Pol Pot's Cambodia, I don't have to be Israeli or Palestinian to see events from anothers' point of view.
So - I open it up for you, so as not to bog down ZSs post about .50 caliber rifles with the Middle East conflict.
You can't simplifiy the situation in Israel/Palestine into laying blame. The blame lies squarely on BOTH parties. Each side has acted in deplorable ways toward the other. World governments are also to blame, particularly the British & French, for manipulating events in that region toward their colonial goals. America's historically unwavering support of Israel is also to blame, a one-sided approach will not solve the problem. So in a nutshell, Israel has a right to exist - absolutely. But so does an independent Palestinian state. How do we get there? I have no idea. Generations of political and religious hatred cannot be solved easily. But we need to try, because both Israelis and Palestinians deserve the right to live in peace. Is the Gaza pullout a good thing? That remains to be seen.
And never, ever tell me I don't have a right to discuss something or have (or voice) my opinion.
14 August 2005
My case against guns
I know many of you will jump all over me for this one - and that's fine - feel free to disagree.
First, there's the argument I hear a lot that "More guns = less crime/violence". That's just as naiive and simplistic as "Less guns=less crime/violence". It's not that simple.
I don't blame guns themselves for violence, but I believe they create the potential to make a semi-violent situation deadly. Take a barfight for example - two guys beat the crap out of each other for, and each walks away with a black eye. If one, or both of those guys had been packin, one, or both, plus maybe some bystanders could be dead.
Ahh, but you say that if everyone carried guns then we'd think twice about starting fights in the first place. I disagree, and here's why:
People are stupid. I would agree with that logic if I believed that most people were half as intelligent as my faithful blog readers. But we all know that's not the case. I'm not talking intelligence as in IQ, I'm talking intelligence in terms of logical, forward, consequence-oriented thinking. This type of thinking normally develops in the late teens to early twenties, and in some people, not at all. And there's really no way to "test" for it. This type of cognitive development is needed to critically evaluate a situation, and many people just don't have it.
People get caught up in the moment. Have you ever gotten so mad that you've lost track of everything around you. All you can think of is your rage and how much you just want to beat the crap out of the other guy? Combine that with the lack of intelligence it would take to suck it up, and walk away, rather than pulling your gun. Emotions cloud judgement.
Then there's the issue of living in constant fear. If I constantly have to watch what I say or how I act, for fear of pissing off some asshole who just might be stupid enough to pull his gun without thinking, then I'm not exactly living free, am I? I want the freedom to scream and yell at some asshole that almost hits me with his car as I'm crossing the street, without worrying that he's crazy enough to pull a gun. Yeah, yeah. You say I'm paranoid. It's not like I'm walking around in fear now - not at all. What I'm saying is that I don't trust the average person (let alone the 50% who are below average) with life and death situations involving firearms.
More guns means more federalized law enforcement. What? How can that be? Well, if everyone owns and carries a loaded weapon, you need much more clear laws on the books regarding where the lines between law and order and vigilantism are drawn. And those laws will need to be enforced consistently - at a federal level. Dealing with instant life and death decisions that involve guns, you must have one, clear set of laws that decide when it is appropriate to use your weapon - and those laws cannot vary from state to state. If I travel to Florida, for example, and am not aware of the new law that makes it legal to shoot someone if they "threaten" (try to define threaten) you - I could be dead. No mumbo-jumbo rhetoric either. Clearly spelled out - in this situation, it is ok to use your weapon, in this other situation, it is not. Period. You can't fuck around with semantics when people's lives are on the line. Well, that's not realistically possible. We can't spell out every possible situation, nor can we prevent people from manipulating the law for purposes for which it was not intended. And when you're dealing with people's lives potentially ending in a fraction of a second, that's unacceptable.
So there you have it: People are emotional and stupid, and it would require more federal oversight and unrealistically precise codes of conduct that you'd never get everyone to agree upon.
First, there's the argument I hear a lot that "More guns = less crime/violence". That's just as naiive and simplistic as "Less guns=less crime/violence". It's not that simple.
I don't blame guns themselves for violence, but I believe they create the potential to make a semi-violent situation deadly. Take a barfight for example - two guys beat the crap out of each other for
Ahh, but you say that if everyone carried guns then we'd think twice about starting fights in the first place. I disagree, and here's why:
People are stupid. I would agree with that logic if I believed that most people were half as intelligent as my faithful blog readers. But we all know that's not the case. I'm not talking intelligence as in IQ, I'm talking intelligence in terms of logical, forward, consequence-oriented thinking. This type of thinking normally develops in the late teens to early twenties, and in some people, not at all. And there's really no way to "test" for it. This type of cognitive development is needed to critically evaluate a situation, and many people just don't have it.
People get caught up in the moment. Have you ever gotten so mad that you've lost track of everything around you. All you can think of is your rage and how much you just want to beat the crap out of the other guy? Combine that with the lack of intelligence it would take to suck it up, and walk away, rather than pulling your gun. Emotions cloud judgement.
Then there's the issue of living in constant fear. If I constantly have to watch what I say or how I act, for fear of pissing off some asshole who just might be stupid enough to pull his gun without thinking, then I'm not exactly living free, am I? I want the freedom to scream and yell at some asshole that almost hits me with his car as I'm crossing the street, without worrying that he's crazy enough to pull a gun. Yeah, yeah. You say I'm paranoid. It's not like I'm walking around in fear now - not at all. What I'm saying is that I don't trust the average person (let alone the 50% who are below average) with life and death situations involving firearms.
More guns means more federalized law enforcement. What? How can that be? Well, if everyone owns and carries a loaded weapon, you need much more clear laws on the books regarding where the lines between law and order and vigilantism are drawn. And those laws will need to be enforced consistently - at a federal level. Dealing with instant life and death decisions that involve guns, you must have one, clear set of laws that decide when it is appropriate to use your weapon - and those laws cannot vary from state to state. If I travel to Florida, for example, and am not aware of the new law that makes it legal to shoot someone if they "threaten" (try to define threaten) you - I could be dead. No mumbo-jumbo rhetoric either. Clearly spelled out - in this situation, it is ok to use your weapon, in this other situation, it is not. Period. You can't fuck around with semantics when people's lives are on the line. Well, that's not realistically possible. We can't spell out every possible situation, nor can we prevent people from manipulating the law for purposes for which it was not intended. And when you're dealing with people's lives potentially ending in a fraction of a second, that's unacceptable.
So there you have it: People are emotional and stupid, and it would require more federal oversight and unrealistically precise codes of conduct that you'd never get everyone to agree upon.
Review: The Aristocrats
Before I start the review, I thought I'd share my dream. It's nothing as elaborate as going on a scavenger hunt with John Kerry or anything, but I rarely remember my dreams so any tidbit is usually a treat for me. I dreamt some CIA agents were leading me through one of their compounds, and we come to a door, and there, behind the door, was all the world's lost umbrellas. That's all I remember. What can I say, t's been raining the past couple days...
Anyway... on to the review.
Shock
1. The disturbance of function, equilibrium, or mental faculties caused by such a blow; violent agitation.
2. A severe offense to one's sense of propriety or decency; an outrage.
3. A potentially fatal physiological reaction to a variety of conditions, including illness, injury, hemorrhage, and dehydration, usually characterized by marked loss of blood pressure, diminished blood circulation, and inadequate blood flow to the tissues.
The Aristocrats:
1. The disturbance of function, equilibrium, or mental faculties caused by such a blow; violent agitation.
2. A severe offense to one's sense of propriety or decency; an outrage.
3. A potentially fatal physiological reaction to extreme poor taste, usually characterized by uncontrollable fits of laughter.
George Carlin once said: "Lots of groups in this country want to tell you how to talk. Tell you what you can't talk about. Well, sometimes they'll say, well you can talk about something but you can't joke about it. Say you can't joke about something because it's not funny. Comedians run into that shit all the time. Like rape. They'll say, "you can't joke about rape. Rape's not funny." I say, "fuck you, I think it's hilarious. How do you like that?" I can prove to you that rape is funny. Picture Porky Pig raping Elmer Fudd. ...I believe you can joke about anything. It all depends on how you construct the joke. What the exaggeration is. ... Because every joke needs one exaggeration. Every joke needs one thing to be way out of proportion"
--Parental Advisory, Explicit Lyrics (1990)
The Aristocrats must have been what he had in mind.
The Aristocrats, as we learn in this comelling documentary, is an old vaudville joke. It's really nothing special, and isn't even particularly funny. But it has been used to push the boundaries of humor to the absolute limit. It's a simple joke, where all you have to memorize is the setup and the punchline. Everything in between is yours to do with what you please. About a hundred comedians talk about their experiences with this joke and how they tell their versions. It's become a legend in the comedy world.
That said, if you are offended by feces, urine, anal sex, incest, beastiality - you won't like this movie. It doesn't sound funny when you put it that way. But trust me, Gilbert Gotfried (who I normally cannot stand to watch) explaining so matter of factly where the blood comes from had me in convulsions of laughter. It's not the words themselves, it's the juxtaposition, the way they're used that make this funny. Some comedians describe everything to the last detail, stretching the joke on for 20 minutes. Others prefer to have you fill in the blanks with your own imagination. I haven't laughed that hard in a long, long time. Think of the sickest, most lurid acts you can think of - got it? You've come nowhere close to where some of these comdedians take this joke.
I caught myself once or twice going "I can't laugh at THAT?!" - of course I can. It's a joke, and it's meant to push ever last one of your buttons.
I was happy to see, however, that there were no children in the theatre, except, of course, the ones in the joke.
Anyway... on to the review.
Shock
1. The disturbance of function, equilibrium, or mental faculties caused by such a blow; violent agitation.
2. A severe offense to one's sense of propriety or decency; an outrage.
3. A potentially fatal physiological reaction to a variety of conditions, including illness, injury, hemorrhage, and dehydration, usually characterized by marked loss of blood pressure, diminished blood circulation, and inadequate blood flow to the tissues.
The Aristocrats:
1. The disturbance of function, equilibrium, or mental faculties caused by such a blow; violent agitation.
2. A severe offense to one's sense of propriety or decency; an outrage.
3. A potentially fatal physiological reaction to extreme poor taste, usually characterized by uncontrollable fits of laughter.
George Carlin once said: "Lots of groups in this country want to tell you how to talk. Tell you what you can't talk about. Well, sometimes they'll say, well you can talk about something but you can't joke about it. Say you can't joke about something because it's not funny. Comedians run into that shit all the time. Like rape. They'll say, "you can't joke about rape. Rape's not funny." I say, "fuck you, I think it's hilarious. How do you like that?" I can prove to you that rape is funny. Picture Porky Pig raping Elmer Fudd. ...I believe you can joke about anything. It all depends on how you construct the joke. What the exaggeration is. ... Because every joke needs one exaggeration. Every joke needs one thing to be way out of proportion"
--Parental Advisory, Explicit Lyrics (1990)
The Aristocrats must have been what he had in mind.
The Aristocrats, as we learn in this comelling documentary, is an old vaudville joke. It's really nothing special, and isn't even particularly funny. But it has been used to push the boundaries of humor to the absolute limit. It's a simple joke, where all you have to memorize is the setup and the punchline. Everything in between is yours to do with what you please. About a hundred comedians talk about their experiences with this joke and how they tell their versions. It's become a legend in the comedy world.
That said, if you are offended by feces, urine, anal sex, incest, beastiality - you won't like this movie. It doesn't sound funny when you put it that way. But trust me, Gilbert Gotfried (who I normally cannot stand to watch) explaining so matter of factly where the blood comes from had me in convulsions of laughter. It's not the words themselves, it's the juxtaposition, the way they're used that make this funny. Some comedians describe everything to the last detail, stretching the joke on for 20 minutes. Others prefer to have you fill in the blanks with your own imagination. I haven't laughed that hard in a long, long time. Think of the sickest, most lurid acts you can think of - got it? You've come nowhere close to where some of these comdedians take this joke.
I caught myself once or twice going "I can't laugh at THAT?!" - of course I can. It's a joke, and it's meant to push ever last one of your buttons.
I was happy to see, however, that there were no children in the theatre, except, of course, the ones in the joke.
12 August 2005
Aristocrats, cat puke and a PT Cruiser
That will be the nature of our weekend. We're hopefully going to see the Aristocrats this weekend, maybe even Friday night. It's only playing in two theatres in Chicago - the one's that always get the limited release films (Piper's Alley & Esquire). We'll get to see it one way or another.
Today after work, we're heading out to OP to get my mom's car. No, we don't own a car - there's no need. But my folks are going out of town and my mom offered hers if we need it. We have to take Penny to the vet tomorrow morning. Not that I can't just throw her in the back of a cab and take her that way, which is what we've always done.
Earlier this week she puked up what John described as "green glop". I had visions of my sweet little kitty being posessed by a demon ala the Exorcist and spewing pea soup. Of course, I forgot that to John all puke and poop is "horrifying," reason #8,091 why we won't have kids. We'd have to get a toxic waste suit if John were ever to change a diaper.
Well, it wasn't green and it wasn't glop. It was just a nasty hairball. But she's been throwing up a lot lately, and has gone back to eating her own fur. She's had nothing but peachfuzz left on her entire belly for a couple years now because she ate it all. She stopped for a while and is now back at it. The belly is kind of cute - you just want to rub it like she's the kitty Buddha.
But puking that much isn't healthy and so we've gotta take her in.
Maybe we'll take Annie to the dog beach if we can figure out a way not to get sand all over the car. That's probably just a bad idea on second thought.
Several people have asked for photos of John driving what I can only describe as the queerest car in the universe. Don't get me wrong, we appreciate the use of the car, and it totally fits my mom's personality. But it's a PT Cruiser, and there's all kinds of gecko stuff on the inside. My mom has a thing for geckos, she even got a tattoo of one on her arm. The steering wheel cover is geckos, there's a little gecko charm hanging from the rear view mirror. Oh, and the license plate "says" Cute PT... So the thought of John driving this thing is pretty funny. But I don't think he'd allow me to take a picture, let alone post it. So Joe- you're outta luck. Sorry man.
I'm actually busy at work today, which is unusual for August. In 3 weeks classes start again, and all hell breaks loose...
Today after work, we're heading out to OP to get my mom's car. No, we don't own a car - there's no need. But my folks are going out of town and my mom offered hers if we need it. We have to take Penny to the vet tomorrow morning. Not that I can't just throw her in the back of a cab and take her that way, which is what we've always done.
Earlier this week she puked up what John described as "green glop". I had visions of my sweet little kitty being posessed by a demon ala the Exorcist and spewing pea soup. Of course, I forgot that to John all puke and poop is "horrifying," reason #8,091 why we won't have kids. We'd have to get a toxic waste suit if John were ever to change a diaper.
Well, it wasn't green and it wasn't glop. It was just a nasty hairball. But she's been throwing up a lot lately, and has gone back to eating her own fur. She's had nothing but peachfuzz left on her entire belly for a couple years now because she ate it all. She stopped for a while and is now back at it. The belly is kind of cute - you just want to rub it like she's the kitty Buddha.
But puking that much isn't healthy and so we've gotta take her in.
Maybe we'll take Annie to the dog beach if we can figure out a way not to get sand all over the car. That's probably just a bad idea on second thought.
Several people have asked for photos of John driving what I can only describe as the queerest car in the universe. Don't get me wrong, we appreciate the use of the car, and it totally fits my mom's personality. But it's a PT Cruiser, and there's all kinds of gecko stuff on the inside. My mom has a thing for geckos, she even got a tattoo of one on her arm. The steering wheel cover is geckos, there's a little gecko charm hanging from the rear view mirror. Oh, and the license plate "says" Cute PT... So the thought of John driving this thing is pretty funny. But I don't think he'd allow me to take a picture, let alone post it. So Joe- you're outta luck. Sorry man.
I'm actually busy at work today, which is unusual for August. In 3 weeks classes start again, and all hell breaks loose...
11 August 2005
The short version
I believe it was Jason that requested the "best" list, after my "worst movies ever" post. I figure with the effort he's been putting in posting his life story lately, I could put in 1/4 of the effort for this.
Let me preface this by saying that I don't like doing "best" or "favorite" lists, because whether it's movies or music, it depends on the genre and my mood. And is the best of one genre better than the best of another? I don't think so. So I won't rank these, they're just alphabetical. I also have probably forgotten something. The problem with loving movies so much is that it's difficult to A) remember all the one's you've ever seen and B) remembering which of those from group A are truly great. It's also difficult for me distinguish between the "Best" and my "Favorite". While a film could be one of my favorites, I know that doesn't make it one of the best movies ever made. I'll admit I still have a place in my moviegoing heart for the original Muppet Movie, even though it was, as movies go, pretty terrible. But I can't help but love it.
I've narrowed it as far as I can, and even that was hard. I wanted to write a short blurb about each movie, but this ended up getting WAY longer than I wanted it to. So here's the short version. If anyone really wants the long version, I'll think about finishing it. I got about halfway done and tabled it.
- African Queen
- Aliens
- Amadeus
- American Beauty
- American History X
- Animal House
- As Good as it Gets
- The Big Chill
- Big Fish
- The Blues Brothers
- Cinema Paradiso
- City of Lost Children
- Clerks
- Coming to America
- Dead Alive
- Dogma
- Dr. Strangelove or How I learned to stop worrying and love the bomb.
- Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
- Face/Off
- Fallen
- Fargo
- Full Metal Jacket
- Glory
- The Godfather
- Goodfellas
- Groundhog Day
- Jaws
- LA Story
- The Life of Brian
- Lord of the Rings (all 3, though I like 2 best)
- Monsters Inc.
- Moonstruck
- O Brother Where Art Thou
- Office Space
- One Hour Photo
- Raiders of the Lost Ark
- Ray
- Reservoir Dogs
- Run Lola Run
- Scarface
- Seven
- Silence of the Lambs
- Sleeping Beauty
- Suspiria
- Swimming with Sharks
- The Thing
- Unforgiven
- The Usual Suspects
Surprise...
During his visit to Illinois yesterday, Bush had trouble pronoucing Governor Blagojevich (Blah-goy-eh-vich)
From the Tribune:
A shout-out to Mayor Richard Daley and a minor dis of Gov. Rod Blagojevich.
President Bush, visiting Illinois to sign into law a $286 billion federal transportation bill that will fund a number of local projects, introduced some of the assembled dignitaries to the crowd Wednesday at the Caterpillar Inc. plant near Montgomery.
But with scandals tainting City Hall, was it possible that Bush might want to keep some distance from the mayor? Not so.
"Somebody said His Honor may be here. There he is," Bush said, pointing at Daley from the lectern. The president called him a great mayor and said he was proud Daley was there.
"Let me just say," Bush added, "you want him on your side."
But when it came time to nod to the governor, the president wasn't so smooth. He stumbled over Blagojevich's name, getting it on the third try.
"In fairness to President Bush," the governor said later, "he's from Texas and you gotta think there aren't a lot of Blagojevichs down in Texas." A quick search of the Internet site whitepages.com turned up zero.
That's nice of Blago and all, but you'd think Rove could make little flashcards for Bush - you know, the kind they make for kindergarten with a picture of an Apple and the word spelled and shown phonetically? Then again, before the 2004 elections, Bush thought an Obama campaign button said Osama. "Never heard of him" he said, when assured no one was campaigning Osama for Senate. How can you miss him now?
From the Tribune:
A shout-out to Mayor Richard Daley and a minor dis of Gov. Rod Blagojevich.
President Bush, visiting Illinois to sign into law a $286 billion federal transportation bill that will fund a number of local projects, introduced some of the assembled dignitaries to the crowd Wednesday at the Caterpillar Inc. plant near Montgomery.
But with scandals tainting City Hall, was it possible that Bush might want to keep some distance from the mayor? Not so.
"Somebody said His Honor may be here. There he is," Bush said, pointing at Daley from the lectern. The president called him a great mayor and said he was proud Daley was there.
"Let me just say," Bush added, "you want him on your side."
But when it came time to nod to the governor, the president wasn't so smooth. He stumbled over Blagojevich's name, getting it on the third try.
"In fairness to President Bush," the governor said later, "he's from Texas and you gotta think there aren't a lot of Blagojevichs down in Texas." A quick search of the Internet site whitepages.com turned up zero.
That's nice of Blago and all, but you'd think Rove could make little flashcards for Bush - you know, the kind they make for kindergarten with a picture of an Apple and the word spelled and shown phonetically? Then again, before the 2004 elections, Bush thought an Obama campaign button said Osama. "Never heard of him" he said, when assured no one was campaigning Osama for Senate. How can you miss him now?
10 August 2005
That damn elevator
Working in a National Historic Landmark is nice sometimes, except of course when the only elevator going to your floor hasn't been replaced since 1975 and is being repaired every other week for all kinds of problems.
The Auditorium Building was one of the first multi-functional buildings - it was designed as a theatre, attached to a hotel, with an office building in a tower. The tower is a stand-alone structure, detached from the rest of the building and serviced by its own elevator, which goes from the 8th to the 18th floors.
Don't ask me why they put the two, old, retired President Emeriti on the 17th floor. Making a 70 year old man walk up 9 flights is just wrong. I usually end up having to walk from 8 to 13 (yes, I work on the 13th floor) at least once every other week. Part of the problem is that they have to move everyone out of the tower and shut down the elevator for at least 2 months for a full replacement.
A few years ago the disabled secretary for the Psychology department (on 18) was hurt and the paramedics had to walk up to get to her because of the elevator. I believe they gave us a citation for that. Good thing it wasn't a police emergency - watching two overweight CPD officers have heart attacks in the stairwell would not be fun.
This morning, I got in about 8am, everything is working fine. The window washer startled me a little. I'm not used to seeing strange men hang outside my windows. Then I hear the alarm bell - someone is stuck in the elevator. Not only is someone stuck - it's a bunch of firemen, trapped in the elevator with one of our security guards. They were on their way to rescue the window washer! I guess his pully was stuck and he couldn't get down. I couldn't help but laugh at the irony.
If we don't get a citation for that, I don't know what it will take for them to replace that thing.
The Auditorium Building was one of the first multi-functional buildings - it was designed as a theatre, attached to a hotel, with an office building in a tower. The tower is a stand-alone structure, detached from the rest of the building and serviced by its own elevator, which goes from the 8th to the 18th floors.
Don't ask me why they put the two, old, retired President Emeriti on the 17th floor. Making a 70 year old man walk up 9 flights is just wrong. I usually end up having to walk from 8 to 13 (yes, I work on the 13th floor) at least once every other week. Part of the problem is that they have to move everyone out of the tower and shut down the elevator for at least 2 months for a full replacement.
A few years ago the disabled secretary for the Psychology department (on 18) was hurt and the paramedics had to walk up to get to her because of the elevator. I believe they gave us a citation for that. Good thing it wasn't a police emergency - watching two overweight CPD officers have heart attacks in the stairwell would not be fun.
This morning, I got in about 8am, everything is working fine. The window washer startled me a little. I'm not used to seeing strange men hang outside my windows. Then I hear the alarm bell - someone is stuck in the elevator. Not only is someone stuck - it's a bunch of firemen, trapped in the elevator with one of our security guards. They were on their way to rescue the window washer! I guess his pully was stuck and he couldn't get down. I couldn't help but laugh at the irony.
If we don't get a citation for that, I don't know what it will take for them to replace that thing.
09 August 2005
It must be stopped
So we're getting ready to eat dinner, and unbeknownst to me I am whistling, as I tend to do. John stops, turns, and says "OH NOOO".
I was whistling that goddamned song from the creepy McDonaldcize commerical!
Someone please help me. I am not well. Not well at all.
John said he's considering divorce... :-P
On a happier note, we finally got our originals & negatives from our wedding photos. We just never got around to ordering any extra prints besides our album. So two years later, we have every photo they took, digital and large format negatives. Now we gotta figure out which ones we want printed.
I was whistling that goddamned song from the creepy McDonaldcize commerical!
Someone please help me. I am not well. Not well at all.
John said he's considering divorce... :-P
On a happier note, we finally got our originals & negatives from our wedding photos. We just never got around to ordering any extra prints besides our album. So two years later, we have every photo they took, digital and large format negatives. Now we gotta figure out which ones we want printed.
I love crazy people
As I went to go get a sandwich for lunch today, I passed by a man who was obviously crazy. Another woman passed him at the same time as me and he started ranting about the "stinky wenches" in a thick Jamaican accent. Since I showered this morning, I can only assume he meant the other woman. With the popularity of wireless, hands-free cell phone devices, it's even harder to spot the crazies. It's fun to imagine that everyone is just talking to themselves though.
I could turn this into a rant on the state of mental health care (and health care in general) in this country. But that's just too depressing. It's sad that a large percentage of the homeless, impoverished and convicts in prisons are also in need of psychiatric care. But sometimes you see a crazy person and you can't help but chuckle a little bit. Am I a bad person?
Like Pigeonman. He sits by the fountain in Lincoln Square and lets the pigeons stand all over him, even on his head, eating the seed in his lap. Maybe he's not crazy, just weird, and filthy.
The paranoid man on the el who accused some yuppie of being an undercover cop following him was interesting too. When the Chad protested and said he wasn't a cop, the guy without skipping a beat, said "I never knew a cop to tell the truth"... oh-kay.
The street preachers are fun sometimes too. I try to ignore them unless they don't accept "no thank you" as a valid response to their offers of pamphlets.
My favorite, all time legendary crazyperson is Queen Tequila (teh-kwee-lah) as we so lovingly refer to her now.
We were on the Green Line train going out to my parent's house. The Green Line goes through the heart of one of Chicago's worst ghettos. Vacant lots, junk yards, boarded up buildings, and liquor stores is just about all you see amidst the mostly dilapidated houses and apartments. It's pretty depressing really. There's always a few crazies on the trains too - and for some reason, they LOVE me. John was wearing on of those stupid shirts "One Tequila, Two Tequila, Three Tequila, Floor". I think he was going for the meathead-fratboy look that day. The woman sees his shirt and starts reading it, very...slowly...
"One...teh-kweelah... two...teh-kweelah... Teh-kweelah? What's Teh-kweelah?"
We explained how it was pronounced and what it was. That was it. We were her's for the duration of the trip. She was dressed in one of those smock dresses that a lot of black women wear, and she had this huge gold lamme "I love Jesus" sash, and a couple of WWJD pins, and this tote bag that can only be described as the bastard lovechild of Rainbow Brite and an airline pillow. It had legs, and eyes, and she held it by the handles and made it dance on the floor of the el amidst her impromptu "Praiiiiise Jesus" chants. Occasionally she'd just stop, mid sentence, and start singing hymns and clapping.
Her. Eyes.
She would get excited and her eyes would open really wide and bug out of her head and she'd show this really toothy smile and she just looked like a maniacal demon. Then she asked us if we went to church. Afraid that she might devour our souls if we said "no" we just smiled and nodded and said "sure do". She got off the train at Central.
This was a good 6 years ago or so, and we still remember her. Many crazies come and go, but she is forever etched into my memory.
I could turn this into a rant on the state of mental health care (and health care in general) in this country. But that's just too depressing. It's sad that a large percentage of the homeless, impoverished and convicts in prisons are also in need of psychiatric care. But sometimes you see a crazy person and you can't help but chuckle a little bit. Am I a bad person?
Like Pigeonman. He sits by the fountain in Lincoln Square and lets the pigeons stand all over him, even on his head, eating the seed in his lap. Maybe he's not crazy, just weird, and filthy.
The paranoid man on the el who accused some yuppie of being an undercover cop following him was interesting too. When the Chad protested and said he wasn't a cop, the guy without skipping a beat, said "I never knew a cop to tell the truth"... oh-kay.
The street preachers are fun sometimes too. I try to ignore them unless they don't accept "no thank you" as a valid response to their offers of pamphlets.
My favorite, all time legendary crazyperson is Queen Tequila (teh-kwee-lah) as we so lovingly refer to her now.
We were on the Green Line train going out to my parent's house. The Green Line goes through the heart of one of Chicago's worst ghettos. Vacant lots, junk yards, boarded up buildings, and liquor stores is just about all you see amidst the mostly dilapidated houses and apartments. It's pretty depressing really. There's always a few crazies on the trains too - and for some reason, they LOVE me. John was wearing on of those stupid shirts "One Tequila, Two Tequila, Three Tequila, Floor". I think he was going for the meathead-fratboy look that day. The woman sees his shirt and starts reading it, very...slowly...
"One...teh-kweelah... two...teh-kweelah... Teh-kweelah? What's Teh-kweelah?"
We explained how it was pronounced and what it was. That was it. We were her's for the duration of the trip. She was dressed in one of those smock dresses that a lot of black women wear, and she had this huge gold lamme "I love Jesus" sash, and a couple of WWJD pins, and this tote bag that can only be described as the bastard lovechild of Rainbow Brite and an airline pillow. It had legs, and eyes, and she held it by the handles and made it dance on the floor of the el amidst her impromptu "Praiiiiise Jesus" chants. Occasionally she'd just stop, mid sentence, and start singing hymns and clapping.
Her. Eyes.
She would get excited and her eyes would open really wide and bug out of her head and she'd show this really toothy smile and she just looked like a maniacal demon. Then she asked us if we went to church. Afraid that she might devour our souls if we said "no" we just smiled and nodded and said "sure do". She got off the train at Central.
This was a good 6 years ago or so, and we still remember her. Many crazies come and go, but she is forever etched into my memory.
08 August 2005
Ronald McDonald was never called an asshole
Until now.
So John and I were sitting, watching an episode of The Tick we recorded (they're replaying all the old cartoons - we love them because they're just insane) when all of the sudden on comes this McDonald's commercial. We couldn't keep our eyes off of it, except for the occasional glance over to eachother to see if we both thought it was the most fucked up thing we've seen in a while.
I won't try to describe it in too much detail, because, after Googling "McDonald's Activiation Station" I've found several other people who describe it much better. Basically it was Ronald McDonald, goin all Wigga (just as the Boondocks predicted) and trying to motivate children to exercise.
Digital Malaise likens Ronald McDonald to "a fun house Tony Little" and Steve Brandon says "Ronald McDonald was in full Richard Simmons mode... It was creepier than finding the Burger King in bed with you!" John said he "beheld what no man should behold". I just stood in horrified awe.
John spent about 45 minutes converting this from the Tivo into a .wmv and getting the file size down as much as possible. It's driven him slightly mad in the process, so you better fuckin appreciate it.
Behold.
Ronald's Activation Station (9 MB)
(Note: I'm not leaving this link active for long, as I don't want to kill the service provider.)
So John and I were sitting, watching an episode of The Tick we recorded (they're replaying all the old cartoons - we love them because they're just insane) when all of the sudden on comes this McDonald's commercial. We couldn't keep our eyes off of it, except for the occasional glance over to eachother to see if we both thought it was the most fucked up thing we've seen in a while.
I won't try to describe it in too much detail, because, after Googling "McDonald's Activiation Station" I've found several other people who describe it much better. Basically it was Ronald McDonald, goin all Wigga (just as the Boondocks predicted) and trying to motivate children to exercise.
Digital Malaise likens Ronald McDonald to "a fun house Tony Little" and Steve Brandon says "Ronald McDonald was in full Richard Simmons mode... It was creepier than finding the Burger King in bed with you!" John said he "beheld what no man should behold". I just stood in horrified awe.
John spent about 45 minutes converting this from the Tivo into a .wmv and getting the file size down as much as possible. It's driven him slightly mad in the process, so you better fuckin appreciate it.
Behold.
Ronald's Activation Station (9 MB)
(Note: I'm not leaving this link active for long, as I don't want to kill the service provider.)
Sports & Society
Here's a great piece from The Nation on how Sports not only provides an escape and reflects our society's values, but also provides opportunities for social change.
"The story of the women's movement is incomplete without mention of Billie Jean King's match against Bobby Riggs. The struggle for gay rights has to include a chapter on Martina Navratilova. When we think about the Black freedom struggle, we picture Jackie Robinson and Muhammad Ali along with Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. And, of course, when remembering the movement for Black Power, we can't help but visualize one of the most stirring sights of our sports century: Tommie Smith and John Carlos's black-gloved medal stand salute at the 1968 Olympics."
I, personally, think sports is used to the advantage of the political and corporate elite to control the masses. Sure, it has its good qualities and provides opportunities for many people. But it's become corporatized to the point where social statements would be stifled by management before they ever beamed their way into our homes.
Marx may have called religion the "opiate of the people," he never experienced Monday Night Football.
"The story of the women's movement is incomplete without mention of Billie Jean King's match against Bobby Riggs. The struggle for gay rights has to include a chapter on Martina Navratilova. When we think about the Black freedom struggle, we picture Jackie Robinson and Muhammad Ali along with Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. And, of course, when remembering the movement for Black Power, we can't help but visualize one of the most stirring sights of our sports century: Tommie Smith and John Carlos's black-gloved medal stand salute at the 1968 Olympics."
I, personally, think sports is used to the advantage of the political and corporate elite to control the masses. Sure, it has its good qualities and provides opportunities for many people. But it's become corporatized to the point where social statements would be stifled by management before they ever beamed their way into our homes.
Marx may have called religion the "opiate of the people," he never experienced Monday Night Football.
Pablo Picasso was never called an asshole
That was just going through my head since we watched Repo Man last night. It's such a fun movie, with a great soundtrack.
So the Drug Policy Alliance is having it's annual meeting this year in November in Long Beach, CA. My friend Kathie is presenting her research on Harm Reduction, Heroin & Methodone and maybe some of her stuff on Methamphetamines. She wants me to go, but I've got our statewide professional conference to go to the week prior in Peoria, Ill (ooh fun).
The thought of California in November is nice, but do I really want to travel that much in 2 weeks? Especially since I'm taking a class this Fall and mid-November is when all our Federal reports are due for the Dept of Education. So, it probably won't happen. I've been there before anyway. Our national professional conference was in Long Beach 3 or 4 years ago, and it was fun. Our friend Michael found a place called Hamburger Mary's, a fun little gay bar. He reveled in getting us free drinks by flirting with the bartenders. Then again, when we go to conferences it's usually: breakfast, sessions, lunch, sessions, bar, dinner, bar, bed... so it's fun no matter where it's held, provided it's not Utah. Next year is in New Orleans - talk about a FUN time. I'm taking John with me to that one. He's never been there. I was there when I was about 13- far too young to enjoy it. Hopefully it doesn't get wiped off the map by the ever increasing number of hurricanes.
So the Drug Policy Alliance is having it's annual meeting this year in November in Long Beach, CA. My friend Kathie is presenting her research on Harm Reduction, Heroin & Methodone and maybe some of her stuff on Methamphetamines. She wants me to go, but I've got our statewide professional conference to go to the week prior in Peoria, Ill (ooh fun).
The thought of California in November is nice, but do I really want to travel that much in 2 weeks? Especially since I'm taking a class this Fall and mid-November is when all our Federal reports are due for the Dept of Education. So, it probably won't happen. I've been there before anyway. Our national professional conference was in Long Beach 3 or 4 years ago, and it was fun. Our friend Michael found a place called Hamburger Mary's, a fun little gay bar. He reveled in getting us free drinks by flirting with the bartenders. Then again, when we go to conferences it's usually: breakfast, sessions, lunch, sessions, bar, dinner, bar, bed... so it's fun no matter where it's held, provided it's not Utah. Next year is in New Orleans - talk about a FUN time. I'm taking John with me to that one. He's never been there. I was there when I was about 13- far too young to enjoy it. Hopefully it doesn't get wiped off the map by the ever increasing number of hurricanes.
06 August 2005
Advice for renters...
...never rent in a building where a unit is occupied by a long-term friend of the landlord. You'll always get the sharp end of the stick.
So the saga of the backyard continues.
When we were looking for apartments, we specifically looked at 3-flats vs. building complexes since we like the feel of a flat and we wanted a yard for Annie (our 3-year old shepard-and-god-knows-what-else). We found this place, the right price, it was a duplex, and it fit all of our criteria except central a/c. A few window units and some creative space solutions in the kitchen solved most of our issues.
We didn't hide anything from our landlord. We explained we wanted the yard for our dog - for playing and for well, you know. We also explained we had a motorcycle and a Shell that would need to be kept in the back yard (for security reasons). The place has no garage, and the shell was in the yard of our old place. The landlord told us the garden in the yard was one tenant's (We'll call her Lucy) pride and joy, and gave us the impression we might be seen as interlopers. When we brought this concern to her, she said no, we'd misunderstood and of course Annie was allowed in the yard (supervised - which is fine since we don't leave her unattended anyway) and that we'll find a spot for the shell. She said Lucy might not be happy, but we'll just "tell her" what's the deal.
Still uneasy, but knowing I have the landlord's ok, we moved ahead. Then we find out that Lucy was never informed (according to her - she may have fibbed) about the shell or Annie being allowed in the yard.
Great.
Turns out she's afraid of dogs. You'd think her friend of 20 years and our new landlord would have been aware of this, but she was too proud to tell any of her friends of her fear. Kind of an important detail if your friend is listing a place as dog-friendly, don'tcha think? So we've been walking Annie more than ever, something we're not used to since our old yard was basically a giant dog run, and our old landlord's and neighbors were total dog lovers. We let her out when Lucy isn't sitting out there. I know, it would be nice to let them get to know each other - but Annie can been intimidating to dog lovers, not to mention the canine-phobic. She's just very defensive around strangers. Come fall & winter when there's no more garden to tend, it's fair game and we'll be out there all the time. But for now, it's actually good for all of us to go walking. And now that Annie seems to be getting over her fear of noises, we may just be able to play in the park more.
So that's the status of the dog situation.
The shell is a different story. We compromised with her and put it in the alley, where she usually parks her car. She said she would rather have to park on the street than "look at that thing". Understandable, as it's just an ugly silver tent. We were a little concerned about security - it doesn't lock, and really you're only one bolt-cutter away from the bike being stolen. We want to be neighborly, so we try it. The first night we took the bike out, we found neighborhood kids using the empty shell as a tent to do god-knows-what when we got back. We threw them out and told their parents. John was really close to hitting one really cocky kid - but it totally wasn't worth it. If they had messed with the bike, I'd say fair game. "Don't mess with another man's vehicle".
Since then, we've noticed several times the zipper being messed with, the metal rod that locks down being messed with. We put padlocks on the parts where they'd fit, but the thing really doesn't have a secure lock. It's meant for storage and weather protection.
Well finally today, I noticed the metal bar, which goes around the perimeter of the base and locks into place, was bent up between the locking pegs about a good 4-5 inches. Someone really yanked on that thing - which means they weren't just curious. Someone was trying to break in. We still have to figure out how to bend a 1/4" steel bar back into place, but until then, John has moved it into the space in the yard where we originally intended to put it.
Lucy wasn't home, but I was not leaving it out there another night in the alley. That bar wasn't bent yesterday. If someone put that much effort into it, they'd be back.
We left her a note, saying we know it's ugly, but we can't afford to have anything stolen or wrecked by vandals. The bluebook value on the bike is less than $1,000, since it's a 1983 Shadow. That wouldn't come close to replacing the bike.
So we'll see what she says tomorrow. Frankly, I don't care if it's ugly. I understand "her" yard is her pride and joy, but we're renters on the property too. Friend of the landlord or not, she doesn't own the yard.
Why can't people just leave what doesn't belong to them alone?
So the saga of the backyard continues.
When we were looking for apartments, we specifically looked at 3-flats vs. building complexes since we like the feel of a flat and we wanted a yard for Annie (our 3-year old shepard-and-god-knows-what-else). We found this place, the right price, it was a duplex, and it fit all of our criteria except central a/c. A few window units and some creative space solutions in the kitchen solved most of our issues.
We didn't hide anything from our landlord. We explained we wanted the yard for our dog - for playing and for well, you know. We also explained we had a motorcycle and a Shell that would need to be kept in the back yard (for security reasons). The place has no garage, and the shell was in the yard of our old place. The landlord told us the garden in the yard was one tenant's (We'll call her Lucy) pride and joy, and gave us the impression we might be seen as interlopers. When we brought this concern to her, she said no, we'd misunderstood and of course Annie was allowed in the yard (supervised - which is fine since we don't leave her unattended anyway) and that we'll find a spot for the shell. She said Lucy might not be happy, but we'll just "tell her" what's the deal.
Still uneasy, but knowing I have the landlord's ok, we moved ahead. Then we find out that Lucy was never informed (according to her - she may have fibbed) about the shell or Annie being allowed in the yard.
Great.
Turns out she's afraid of dogs. You'd think her friend of 20 years and our new landlord would have been aware of this, but she was too proud to tell any of her friends of her fear. Kind of an important detail if your friend is listing a place as dog-friendly, don'tcha think? So we've been walking Annie more than ever, something we're not used to since our old yard was basically a giant dog run, and our old landlord's and neighbors were total dog lovers. We let her out when Lucy isn't sitting out there. I know, it would be nice to let them get to know each other - but Annie can been intimidating to dog lovers, not to mention the canine-phobic. She's just very defensive around strangers. Come fall & winter when there's no more garden to tend, it's fair game and we'll be out there all the time. But for now, it's actually good for all of us to go walking. And now that Annie seems to be getting over her fear of noises, we may just be able to play in the park more.
So that's the status of the dog situation.
The shell is a different story. We compromised with her and put it in the alley, where she usually parks her car. She said she would rather have to park on the street than "look at that thing". Understandable, as it's just an ugly silver tent. We were a little concerned about security - it doesn't lock, and really you're only one bolt-cutter away from the bike being stolen. We want to be neighborly, so we try it. The first night we took the bike out, we found neighborhood kids using the empty shell as a tent to do god-knows-what when we got back. We threw them out and told their parents. John was really close to hitting one really cocky kid - but it totally wasn't worth it. If they had messed with the bike, I'd say fair game. "Don't mess with another man's vehicle".
Since then, we've noticed several times the zipper being messed with, the metal rod that locks down being messed with. We put padlocks on the parts where they'd fit, but the thing really doesn't have a secure lock. It's meant for storage and weather protection.
Well finally today, I noticed the metal bar, which goes around the perimeter of the base and locks into place, was bent up between the locking pegs about a good 4-5 inches. Someone really yanked on that thing - which means they weren't just curious. Someone was trying to break in. We still have to figure out how to bend a 1/4" steel bar back into place, but until then, John has moved it into the space in the yard where we originally intended to put it.
Lucy wasn't home, but I was not leaving it out there another night in the alley. That bar wasn't bent yesterday. If someone put that much effort into it, they'd be back.
We left her a note, saying we know it's ugly, but we can't afford to have anything stolen or wrecked by vandals. The bluebook value on the bike is less than $1,000, since it's a 1983 Shadow. That wouldn't come close to replacing the bike.
So we'll see what she says tomorrow. Frankly, I don't care if it's ugly. I understand "her" yard is her pride and joy, but we're renters on the property too. Friend of the landlord or not, she doesn't own the yard.
Why can't people just leave what doesn't belong to them alone?
05 August 2005
Demon Dogs, R.I.P
I just realized today that Demon Dogs, the iconic Lincoln Park / DePaul hot dog joint is no more. I noticed the building empty a couple weeks ago when I happened to be at the Fullerton el stop. But I didn't think of it until just now, when John and I went to get a sandwich and the radio was playing "Hard To Say I'm Sorry" by Chicago.
Let me essplain... no, is too much. Let me sum up:
Demon Dogs was owned by Peter Schivarelli, the manager of the band Chicago and a former Notre Dame football player. The entire joint, which was not that large, was crammed with Chicago memorabilia, gold records, album covers, and Notre Dame football stuff. They had Chicago playing on an endless loop. All your "favorite" hits as well as some of the really bad stuff (or should I simply say worse stuff? it was all bad), like a horrible cover of the big band favorite Sing, Sing, Sing. My chocolate malt nearly came out my nose when I first heard that.
Being poor college students at the time, we frequented this establishment. Even better was that since the DePaulia student newspaper negotiated a deal with Demon Dogs - free advertising in exchange for feeding the regular DePaulia staff members - we ate there a lot. The food wasn't particularly good, the Polish sausage was tolerable. I don't eat hot dogs, so that was pretty much all I ate there, and every time I did, I felt like I had eaten 50lbs of bricks.
Jimmy Buffett rated Demon Dogs one of the best Cheeseburgers, the joke being that they really didn't serve anything other than hot dogs, polish and tamales. He just went there a lot.
So needless to say, this afternoon, I got the familiar pavlovian indigestion, and a nostalgic flutter for an era gone.
So long Demon Dogs...
Let me essplain... no, is too much. Let me sum up:
Demon Dogs was owned by Peter Schivarelli, the manager of the band Chicago and a former Notre Dame football player. The entire joint, which was not that large, was crammed with Chicago memorabilia, gold records, album covers, and Notre Dame football stuff. They had Chicago playing on an endless loop. All your "favorite" hits as well as some of the really bad stuff (or should I simply say worse stuff? it was all bad), like a horrible cover of the big band favorite Sing, Sing, Sing. My chocolate malt nearly came out my nose when I first heard that.
Being poor college students at the time, we frequented this establishment. Even better was that since the DePaulia student newspaper negotiated a deal with Demon Dogs - free advertising in exchange for feeding the regular DePaulia staff members - we ate there a lot. The food wasn't particularly good, the Polish sausage was tolerable. I don't eat hot dogs, so that was pretty much all I ate there, and every time I did, I felt like I had eaten 50lbs of bricks.
Jimmy Buffett rated Demon Dogs one of the best Cheeseburgers, the joke being that they really didn't serve anything other than hot dogs, polish and tamales. He just went there a lot.
So needless to say, this afternoon, I got the familiar pavlovian indigestion, and a nostalgic flutter for an era gone.
So long Demon Dogs...
Thank his noodly appendage it's Friday
Well that was inspired guys. I have to say, I am totally uncreative when it comes to such things. Thank you for entertaining us (well, at least yourselves and me). I had no idea that was going to take off as it did - but some of that had me falling off my chair. See what you started Queenie?
I have today off! I realized I have vacation time to use before September. Our fiscal year follows the academic year, so everything is from Sept to August. Gotta use it before September 1.
Annie seems ok going back to the park now. We haven't taken her off leash since the July 3rd incident. No more fireworks are being set off, and really, not much is making any noise at 6am. There's about 4 other people with dogs that congregate in the park in the morning and Annie - who is usually afraid of strangers, especially men, let a strange man pet her head. She was too interested in the other dogs to notice him touching her. So she ran around for a few minutes with the other dogs - I still get butterflies when she wanders off too far - I don't want a repeat incident. John says letting her off leash is gonna bite me in the ass (i.e. she's gonna book again one day and really get hit this time). But it's hard not to let her because she has so much fun. Anyway, we didn't go today since she's going back to doggy daycare today - where she can play safely with other dogs. Among them, her "boyfriend" - Murray the Golden Retriever. She loves Goldens - she's a mutt, we don't know what the hell she is. But I have no idea why she's attracted to Goldens so much. Strange.
I'm working on a side project cleaning up some data from the College of Education, so hey, extra $. I'll probably do that today and hang a few more pictures.
We still have to hang our two monstrous Lichtenstien's - they're still sitting up against the wall in the basement. We know where they're gonna go, but we're just lazy I guess.
Apparently my George Bush giving the finger gif image on the left hand side doesn't appear for Internet Explorer users. Sorry guys, you're just SOL.
must...make...coffee
I have today off! I realized I have vacation time to use before September. Our fiscal year follows the academic year, so everything is from Sept to August. Gotta use it before September 1.
Annie seems ok going back to the park now. We haven't taken her off leash since the July 3rd incident. No more fireworks are being set off, and really, not much is making any noise at 6am. There's about 4 other people with dogs that congregate in the park in the morning and Annie - who is usually afraid of strangers, especially men, let a strange man pet her head. She was too interested in the other dogs to notice him touching her. So she ran around for a few minutes with the other dogs - I still get butterflies when she wanders off too far - I don't want a repeat incident. John says letting her off leash is gonna bite me in the ass (i.e. she's gonna book again one day and really get hit this time). But it's hard not to let her because she has so much fun. Anyway, we didn't go today since she's going back to doggy daycare today - where she can play safely with other dogs. Among them, her "boyfriend" - Murray the Golden Retriever. She loves Goldens - she's a mutt, we don't know what the hell she is. But I have no idea why she's attracted to Goldens so much. Strange.
I'm working on a side project cleaning up some data from the College of Education, so hey, extra $. I'll probably do that today and hang a few more pictures.
We still have to hang our two monstrous Lichtenstien's - they're still sitting up against the wall in the basement. We know where they're gonna go, but we're just lazy I guess.
Apparently my George Bush giving the finger gif image on the left hand side doesn't appear for Internet Explorer users. Sorry guys, you're just SOL.
must...make...coffee
04 August 2005
Noodly Appendage
Ok, this is my new favorite phrase.It's just so goddamned funny and I don't know why. John and I were saying it to each other all evening. Why is it so funny?
So thanks to Paul, whoever you are, for giving me that website. We are now members of the First United Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster. Since it appears that in order to be considered equal citizens that we must believe in something, this is as good as any I say.
I was skeptical at first, but when they proved global warming was due to the reduction in the number of Pirates - I nearly fell off my chair! Did you know there's also a positive correlation between increasing ice cream sales and increasing murder rates*? It's true! We better do something about Hagen Daas before it's too late. The obvious answer -
We need more Pirates to rid the world of ice cream or we're all gonna die!
*Actually that's the example most Stats teachers use to show the difference between correlation and causation, just because it's so ludicrous. Just because two variables show a similar pattern doesn't mean one causes the other. I know most of you got the joke, but I felt the need to explain in case anyone might get the idea that I was serious and start shooting at their freezers.
03 August 2005
(un)Intelligent Design
I've seen several postings about this, and I have to throw in my $0.02.
I personally think "Intelligent Design" is just a more palatable way for Bush to push his evangelical agenda on the country. Sure, it works for all those "people of faith" - but what about those who aren't sure? What about those who are athiests? What about those impressionable children who have yet to develop their own views and are having their ability to think rationally attacked in the very institutions where their critical thinking skills are supposed to be developed?
The Constitution was worded the way it was worded (sans mention of God or particular religion) not only to protect religion from government interference, but also to protect government from religious interference. We all know what lovely results we get when religion and politics meet. The Constitution was also created to protect the minority populations from having the majority beliefs shoved down their throats.
I have a new curriculum requirement for the Nation's schools: A mandatory viewing and intelligent discussion of Inherit the Wind. I know kids don't watch old movies, so maybe we can re-make this classic with Vin Diesel.
Why does everyone think that evolution and religion are mutually exclusive systems of belief?
Now, granted, if you take the Bible literally then I can see the problem. But then if you take the Bible literally you also believe that Jonah lived inside a giant whale. I love how "literal" believers take the parts they want, and discard the rest. The Bible "literally" says you shouldn't cut your hair or your beard (Lev 19:27) and to treat immigrants or "strangers to your land" as neighbors (Lev 19:34). We certainly know where some conservative evangelical Christians stand on the issue of immigration... Yes, yes, I know that's the Old Testament. There's plenty in the New Testament that is fodder for this analysis, but I am just too pissed off to go searching for them.
Then of course, there's the issue of translation. Which version do we take literally? They surely do differ.
Not to knock on faith, because I respect everyone's right to believe what they want. But I don't ask that MY faith and opinions be legislated and forced on everyone and I only ask the same respect in return.
Those who take a less literal interpretation have less problems with evolution. 6 days could be metaphor. God could have put into motion the process. Endless possibilities emerge for those who take the Bible as a guideline and a story and take home the messages and lessons rather than the rhetoric.
I'm fucking sick and tired of all this bickering about evolution & creationism in school.
And STOP calling creationism a theory. A theory is a scientific term used for an idea that can be empirically tested and that is always at risk for being proven false. Scientists don't draw a conclusion (God created earth) and then collect all the facts that support their view and ignore the rest of the evidence. That's what Bush does when he's planning a war.
A theory is always open to re-interpretation and re-evaluation. Creationism does not fit that description. And it does not belong in a publicly funded school.
I personally think "Intelligent Design" is just a more palatable way for Bush to push his evangelical agenda on the country. Sure, it works for all those "people of faith" - but what about those who aren't sure? What about those who are athiests? What about those impressionable children who have yet to develop their own views and are having their ability to think rationally attacked in the very institutions where their critical thinking skills are supposed to be developed?
The Constitution was worded the way it was worded (sans mention of God or particular religion) not only to protect religion from government interference, but also to protect government from religious interference. We all know what lovely results we get when religion and politics meet. The Constitution was also created to protect the minority populations from having the majority beliefs shoved down their throats.
I have a new curriculum requirement for the Nation's schools: A mandatory viewing and intelligent discussion of Inherit the Wind. I know kids don't watch old movies, so maybe we can re-make this classic with Vin Diesel.
Why does everyone think that evolution and religion are mutually exclusive systems of belief?
Now, granted, if you take the Bible literally then I can see the problem. But then if you take the Bible literally you also believe that Jonah lived inside a giant whale. I love how "literal" believers take the parts they want, and discard the rest. The Bible "literally" says you shouldn't cut your hair or your beard (Lev 19:27) and to treat immigrants or "strangers to your land" as neighbors (Lev 19:34). We certainly know where some conservative evangelical Christians stand on the issue of immigration... Yes, yes, I know that's the Old Testament. There's plenty in the New Testament that is fodder for this analysis, but I am just too pissed off to go searching for them.
Then of course, there's the issue of translation. Which version do we take literally? They surely do differ.
Not to knock on faith, because I respect everyone's right to believe what they want. But I don't ask that MY faith and opinions be legislated and forced on everyone and I only ask the same respect in return.
Those who take a less literal interpretation have less problems with evolution. 6 days could be metaphor. God could have put into motion the process. Endless possibilities emerge for those who take the Bible as a guideline and a story and take home the messages and lessons rather than the rhetoric.
I'm fucking sick and tired of all this bickering about evolution & creationism in school.
And STOP calling creationism a theory. A theory is a scientific term used for an idea that can be empirically tested and that is always at risk for being proven false. Scientists don't draw a conclusion (God created earth) and then collect all the facts that support their view and ignore the rest of the evidence. That's what Bush does when he's planning a war.
A theory is always open to re-interpretation and re-evaluation. Creationism does not fit that description. And it does not belong in a publicly funded school.
02 August 2005
Bride Kidnapping
So last week, there was a discussion on the Zombieslayer blog about how there aren't any "real" men anymore. Most people seemed to agree that there really isn't such a thing as a concrete, static "real" man. The traits we expect in a particular gender are defined by culture and society, and are fluid and ever-changing. The concept also differs between cultures. The American definition (if there is a universal American definition at all) differs from what it means to be a man in other cultures. Here is a glaring example. We just saw a program on the Discovery Times channel Monday night and it was truly disturbing.
Bride Kidnapping of Kyrgyzstan details the technically illegal, but ancient customary tradition of men who can't afford the dowry a woman's family asks for her marriage, to simply kidnap her. Upon kidnapping, the girl's family usually agrees to a lower dowry amount. Sometimes the men know the women, sometimes they are complete strangers. Like many of the former Soviet-controlled Central Asian countries, customary law and legal law are often two very different things. Weak central governments cannot stamp out patriarchal customary traditions (like honor killings, or forced marriages) in the rural, more remote areas. The practice was kept somewhat in check by the Soviet government, but not eradicated altogether. After the fall of the Soviet Union, the practice began to resurface. Much of the problem is that the rural, mostly uneducated, populations are unaware that the practice is illegal - probably because it is so common.
Over and over again during the program, the men say it is a matter of honor and pride to kidnap a bride. It proves their manhood to take what they want. A woman said "a woman who loves, submits. A man who loves, takes". John and I were horrified by this - because it's strange to us. They actually videotape the kidnappings, and the attempts at the would-be groom's family to wear the woman down emotionally to agree to marriage. Many times the girl's own family is called in - and they are rarely on her side. Women who aren't married by 25 are considered spinsters, and it is socially desireable that they marry. Most weddings are still arranged anyway, and this is seen as another form of arranged marriage.
Now, the women do have the choice to leave. If they can overcome the physical force of the several women who are holding them down and the social pressures of being unmarried and having a tarnished reputation for refusing to marry. We shrug our shoulders at that, and don't really understand why reputation is so important. But think back only 50 years ago to the social pressures American women faced to be proper housewives. Sure some rebelled, but many, in the face of severe social pressure, succumbed to societal expectations. Being ostracized from your family and your community is a very strong motivator.
It's horrifying to watch the poor girls cry and protest as the other women (including their own mothers) physically hold her down and bark at her about honor, and how she'll be happy if she just submits. Apparently only about 1 in 5 kidnapped brides refuses and gets away.
Now, I know this isn't anywhere close to the American ideal of masculinity, but this is what happens when the ideals of masculinity or feminity are too rigid, unquestioned, and taken too literally.
If anyone wants more information, I just did a quickie google search. I'm sure if I did an academic library search, I'd find more. I might do that if I have time. If anyone is interested, I can post the citations if I do.
Bride Kidnapping: What Makes Women Stay: Academic study from the American University-Central Asia.
PBS synopsis of the film
Academy for Educational Development: Information on bride kidnapping.
Human Rights Databank
Implications of International Human Rights Law and Bride Kidnapping in Kyrgyzstan, Tufts University (PDF) : This article outlines the history and current practice of a serious human rights violation against women in Kyrgyzstan: bride kidnapping.
Human Rights Watch report from 2002 about the practice in Georgia.
US State Department Report, 2005: One study indicated that up to one-third of ethnic Kyrgyz women living in the northern part of the country might be married against their will as a result of this practice.
Bride Kidnapping: Benign Custom or Savage Tradition?: By Burulai Pusurmankulova, Junior student of the Journalism Department, Jalalabad State University
Bride Kidnapping of Kyrgyzstan details the technically illegal, but ancient customary tradition of men who can't afford the dowry a woman's family asks for her marriage, to simply kidnap her. Upon kidnapping, the girl's family usually agrees to a lower dowry amount. Sometimes the men know the women, sometimes they are complete strangers. Like many of the former Soviet-controlled Central Asian countries, customary law and legal law are often two very different things. Weak central governments cannot stamp out patriarchal customary traditions (like honor killings, or forced marriages) in the rural, more remote areas. The practice was kept somewhat in check by the Soviet government, but not eradicated altogether. After the fall of the Soviet Union, the practice began to resurface. Much of the problem is that the rural, mostly uneducated, populations are unaware that the practice is illegal - probably because it is so common.
Over and over again during the program, the men say it is a matter of honor and pride to kidnap a bride. It proves their manhood to take what they want. A woman said "a woman who loves, submits. A man who loves, takes". John and I were horrified by this - because it's strange to us. They actually videotape the kidnappings, and the attempts at the would-be groom's family to wear the woman down emotionally to agree to marriage. Many times the girl's own family is called in - and they are rarely on her side. Women who aren't married by 25 are considered spinsters, and it is socially desireable that they marry. Most weddings are still arranged anyway, and this is seen as another form of arranged marriage.
Now, the women do have the choice to leave. If they can overcome the physical force of the several women who are holding them down and the social pressures of being unmarried and having a tarnished reputation for refusing to marry. We shrug our shoulders at that, and don't really understand why reputation is so important. But think back only 50 years ago to the social pressures American women faced to be proper housewives. Sure some rebelled, but many, in the face of severe social pressure, succumbed to societal expectations. Being ostracized from your family and your community is a very strong motivator.
It's horrifying to watch the poor girls cry and protest as the other women (including their own mothers) physically hold her down and bark at her about honor, and how she'll be happy if she just submits. Apparently only about 1 in 5 kidnapped brides refuses and gets away.
Now, I know this isn't anywhere close to the American ideal of masculinity, but this is what happens when the ideals of masculinity or feminity are too rigid, unquestioned, and taken too literally.
If anyone wants more information, I just did a quickie google search. I'm sure if I did an academic library search, I'd find more. I might do that if I have time. If anyone is interested, I can post the citations if I do.
Bride Kidnapping: What Makes Women Stay: Academic study from the American University-Central Asia.
PBS synopsis of the film
Academy for Educational Development: Information on bride kidnapping.
Human Rights Databank
Implications of International Human Rights Law and Bride Kidnapping in Kyrgyzstan, Tufts University (PDF) : This article outlines the history and current practice of a serious human rights violation against women in Kyrgyzstan: bride kidnapping.
Human Rights Watch report from 2002 about the practice in Georgia.
US State Department Report, 2005: One study indicated that up to one-third of ethnic Kyrgyz women living in the northern part of the country might be married against their will as a result of this practice.
Bride Kidnapping: Benign Custom or Savage Tradition?: By Burulai Pusurmankulova, Junior student of the Journalism Department, Jalalabad State University
Bush Has "Complete Confidence" In Leaker
From the Center for American Progress. See the link under "News" to the left to visit the website.
Karl Rove, through his attorney, has admitted telling Columnist Robert Novak and Time Magazine reporter Matt Cooper that Joe Wilson's wife was a CIA agent. President George H. W. Bush said people who expose the identities of undercover CIA agents are "the most insidious of traitors." Times have changed. Yesterday, despite Rove's acknowledged role as a leaker, President George W. Bush said "Karl's got my complete confidence." The comment comes as new information raises questions about the honesty of Rove and his surrogates during the past several weeks.
EVIDENCE THAT ROVE LEARNED OF PLAME'S IDENTITY FROM CLASSIFIED DOCUMENT: Rove's lawyer, Robert Luskin, has publicly suggested that Rove learned Valerie Plame's identity from a journalist. Luskin told the Washington Post that Rove Told the grand jury "he believes he may have heard it [Plame's identity] from a journalist." Asked which journalist told Rove, Luskin added, "I don't think he's able to identify that, or to identify precisely when he may have heard it." A new report from Time Magazine helps explain why Luskin is being so shifty. Time reports that, in early June 2003 "Under Secretary of State Marc Grossman asked for and received a memo on the Wilson trip from Carl Ford, head of the State Department's Bureau of Intelligence and Research...which disclosed Plame's relationship to Wilson." After Washington Post Walter Pincus wrote an article referencing the Wilson trip on June 12 "the circle of senior officials who knew about the identity of Wilson's wife expanded," perhaps from the memo. Time concludes that the existence of the memo "increases the chances that White House official Karl Rove and others learned about Plame from within the Administration rather than from media contacts." If Rove learned Plame's identity from government document, rather than a reporter, it makes it more likely he violated the law when he leaked Plame's identity to reporters.
NOVAK DEBUNKS ROVE TALKING POINT: Karl Rove has insisted he was innocent because he never used the name "Valerie Plame" with reporters. In August 2004, Rove told CNN "I didn't know her name and didn't leak her name." Rove's lawyer subsequently admitted that he identified Plame's position at the CIA without using her name. In a column yesterday, Robert Novak noted "once it was determined that Wilson's wife suggested the mission, she could be identified as 'Valerie Plame' by reading her husband's entry in 'Who's Who in America.'" The distinction also has no legal significance. Under section 421 of the Intelligence Identities Protection Act, the disclosure of "any information identifying [a] covert agent" -- not just the agent's name -- is illegal. (Also, as Josh Marshall notes "The disclosure was identifying Wilson's wife as a CIA operative, not that he had a wife, which needless to say was not a state secret.")
THE VICTIMIZATION OF NOVAK: Novak's column had a larger message for the world: he's a victim. Novak complained that his "integrity as a journalist" had been unfairly abused. Novak uses prime real estate in the nation's op-ed pages to parse a quote by former CIA spokesman Bill Harlow that appeared in the 16th paragraph of an article in the Washington Post. But the central facts remain undisputed. Harlow specifically requested Novak not to publish the information he had about Valerie Plame. He told Novak it would create "problems." (Which was as much as Harlow could say, since her position as an undercover operative was classified.) Novak ignored Harlow and published the story anyway. It was his own July 14, 2003 column, not Harlow, that damaged Novak's "integrity as a journalist."
01 August 2005
It's the little differences
Vincent: You know what the funniest thing about Europe is?
Jules: What?
Vincent: It's the little differences. I mean they got the same shit over there that they got here, but it's just, just there it's a little different.
Jules: Example.
Jules: What?
Vincent: It's the little differences. I mean they got the same shit over there that they got here, but it's just, just there it's a little different.
Jules: Example.
CNN.com: "Bush names Bolton as U.N. ambassador. Recess appointment bypasses Senate, ends nomination impasse.
"Ending a five-month standoff over a controversial nomination, President Bush on Monday used a recess appointment to name John Bolton the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations.
Translation: What a Guy! He ended the evil standoff!
Guardian: "Bush bypasses Senate to install neo-con at UN"
"The US president, George Bush, today bypassed the senate and installed the controversial neo-conservative John Bolton as ambassador to the UN. Mr Bush took advantage of his power to fill vacancies without senate approval while Congress is in recess."
Translation: What an arrogant cock-knocker.
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