Good grammar just might be the key to a good time

Written by steven hall on Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 2:32 PM

Dear readers, I have no idea who originally penned this story, otherwise I would attribute it. If you happen to know the identity of the author, please hook a brothah up so I can doc it. Now then; on to the lesson:

"On my 60th birthday, I got a gift certificate from my wife. The certificate paid for a visit to a shaman living on a nearby reservation who was rumored to have a wonderful cure for erectile dysfunction. After being persuaded, I drove to the reservation, handed my ticket to the shaman, and wondered what I was in for. The old man slowly, methodically produced a potion, handed it to me, and with a grip on my shoulder, warned, 'This is powerful medicine and it must be respected. You take only a teaspoonful and then say '1-2-3.' When you do that, you will be more manly than you have ever been in your life, and you will be able to perform as long as you want.' As he turned and began to walk away, I asked, 'How do I stop the medicine from working?'

The shaman turned his head back over his shoulder and responded, 'Your partner must say '1-2-3-4, but when she does, the medicine will not work again until the next full moon.'

I was eager to see if it worked. I went home, showered, shaved, took a spoonful of the medicine, and then invited Cara to join me in the bedroom. When she came in, I took off my clothes and said, '1-2-3!' Immediately, I was the manliest of men. Cara was excited and began throwing off her clothes. And then she asked, 'What was the 1-2-3 for?'

And that, boys and girls, is why we should never end our sentences with a preposition."

Thanks, @MikeChadwick, for forwarding this to me!

Transcendental grade for bad grammar: Nevermind, the result was punishment enough.

Spammed on my PHONE! Thanks www.f411.com.....

Written by steven hall on Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at 9:57 AM

What a great way to start my day. Get up late, check. Quick shower, check. Eat an apple on the fly, check. Drive to work, check. Recieve txt message from a 3rd-party spammer, check--wait, WHAT?

Why hello there, www.free411.com, or rather www.f411.us with a splash page pointing to the .com URL. I imagine the "f" representative of what they do to your data bill.

I called the number listed in the txt reply. I was greeted with normal bs diatribe, "Welcome to 1-800-free-411, a service of Jingle Networks..." followed by a shallow option listing. Cust service, media inquiries, etc... all of which require you to leave your information and they'll get back to you--I'm sure they *will* get back to you--in your phone txt messages.

Upon realizing I wasn't going to be able to speak with someone, whom I'm sure probably wouldn't speak english anyway, I called AT&T to light them up a bit.

The girl I spoke with was knowledgeable it would seem, very nice, and spoke clearly. She took all of their information, fed it in to the system, submitted a complaint regarding the texts received, and refunded me the, oh-I-don't-know probably $.21 charged for the messages. I felt she did *her* job. I hope AT&T does *their* job and follows up with this to help insure others don't get the same text goodness.

And to my good friends--well they *must* be if their texting me in the a.m.--at free411.com: Thank you for your kind considerations. During these holiday seasons may you receive everything you certainly deserve.



Transcendental grade for no-consideration spamming SOB's: 5.5/7 Suks*.
Have to use the Wang Saen Suk scale for this one.
Transcendental grade for pleasant AT&T agent: 5/7 Chakras.

McCain top advisors fume over Palin

Written by steven hall on Wednesday, November 05, 2008 at 5:49 PM

NEWSWEEK has reported that Sarah Palin may have had quite a good time shopping in preparation for the RNC Convention:

While publicly supporting Palin, McCain's top advisers privately fumed at what they regarded as her outrageous profligacy. One senior aide said that Nicolle Wallace had told Palin to buy three suits for the convention and hire a stylist. But instead, the vice presidential nominee began buying for herself and her family—clothes and accessories from top stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. According to two knowledgeable sources, a vast majority of the clothes were bought by a wealthy donor, who was shocked when he got the bill. Palin also used low-level staffers to buy some of the clothes on their credit cards. The McCain campaign found out last week when the aides sought reimbursement. One aide estimated that she spent "tens of thousands" more than the reported $150,000, and that $20,000 to $40,000 went to buy clothes for her husband. Some articles of clothing have apparently been lost. An angry aide characterized the shopping spree as "Wasilla hillbillies looting Neiman Marcus from coast to coast," and said the truth will eventually come out when the Republican Party audits its books.

A Palin aide said: "Governor Palin was not directing staffers to put anything on their personal credit cards, and anything that staffers put on their credit cards has been reimbursed, like an expense. Nasty and false accusations following a defeat say more about the person who made them than they do about Governor Palin."

McCain himself rarely spoke to Palin during the campaign, and aides kept him in the dark about the details of her spending on clothes because they were sure he would be offended. Palin asked to speak along with McCain at his Arizona concession speech Tuesday night, but campaign strategist Steve Schmidt vetoed the request.
There are so many things about this, if confirmed, that continue to reassure me regarding my vote. I truly believe if McCain had, all along, been as gracious and personal throughout the race as he was giving his concession speech, he may very well have been President. That notwithstanding, I am reassured about the team of Barack and Joe.

It concerns me that McCain may not have actually spoken with Palin much during the race--how wierd is that? If true, it says *volumes* about the state of that "team".

And also, if true, learning about Palin's shopping spree is alarming at best. Inconsiderate. Inappropriate. You feel in the rest of the adjectives. Having JR aides pay for things? They make like what, coal for pay? It's just not right. I love the quote, "Wasilla hillbillies looting Neiman Marcus from coast to coast". We'll see what happens when the books are audited I guess.

Sketch credit, The Huffington Post
Photo credit, "You Decide 2008"



Transcendental grade for Palin's inappropriatness if confirmed: 5/7 Suks.
yes--can't use the chakra scale, have to use the Wang Saen Suk scale for this one.

Re-post: How Will Terrorists Respond to Obama’s Election: Open Thread

Written by steven hall on at 11:04 AM

I was asked by Culture Feast founder Daniel Dessinger, a.k.a. @DanielthePoet, to weigh in on this question on the Culture Feast blog. They have permitted me to re-post here. My response to the question is below. I invite your comments whether in agreement or telling me I'm full of crap:

Posted on 05 November 2008 by Daniel Dessinger

It's safe to say that in this neck of the world, there are two predominant ideals regarding the anti-American terrorist response to United States Presidential Election. This is an open thread, so we'll state the two opposing views and allow you to discuss.

View #1: Anti-American Sentiment Will Lessen As a Direct Result of Obama's Election
Many people hold Republicans and, more specifically, President George W. Bush, responsible for the militant anti-American sentiment around the world. Those holding this view believe that America has now proven it's true heart by electing Barack Obama, and that the rest of the world will take note and not hold the entire country responsible for past presidential "atrocities."

Perhaps terrorists, Iran, Syria, Korea, and others will see the United States differently now that George W. Bush and his worldview are being removed from office. If so, a new era of peaceful negotiations and resolutions to conflicts could begin. Or at the very least, these sovereign nations will not pursue terrorist action because they expect to be respected as sovereign nations and left alone by the previous "world police".

View #2: Electing Obama Has Opened the Floodgates for Terrorism Against American Interests
According to this view, Republican military strength was necessary to express and demonstrate American strength to terrorist factions and dictatorships around the globe. Now that the United States has elected a leader who prefers talks to a show of military force, the impact upon groups most likely to plan a terrorist or military strike is minimal. These groups have a blood feud with the United States and its ideals, and will not be deterred by a Democratic Obama.

In fact, Obama represents weakness. His expressed unwillingness to make difficult preemptive military decisions makes his presidency a prime target for terrorist activity. According to this view, we can expect to see a surge of military/terrorist moves during Obama's first term. They expect Obama will waste too much time trying to negotiate with terrorist/military leaders while they are free to conduct black ops and behind the scenes preparations for attacks against our nation.

Now it's your turn to weigh in.
What affect will Obama's presidency have on anti-American sentiment among terrorist and dictatorial military factions? Keep in mind, we're not talking the world at large - only those who would consider doing harm against our citizens, our interests, and our nation.
My response:
"This is a bit of a conundrum. Anti-American sentiments are not relegated to terrorists. It has been spreading, slowly, from France in the years after WWII.

With WWII being completed the U.S. played a major part in the financing and rebuilding of France. And then we played there "majorly" as if it were the new playground we had built. We did this without much regard of the French culture, and as a result anti-American sentiments slowly but steadily arose to the point it becomes a by-line joke in National Lampoons "European Vacation" with Chevy Chase.

The tie-in around the world, is the perceived philosophy of our actions. We are seen as a country that simply does what it wants, frequently without regard for our global neighbors. That may not be simply a Republican thing, but it is arguable that they have been worse at it. Now, it is also argued that, being the most powerful country, we have protected others (or tried to) and therefore have an "excuse" to "jump to the front of the line" or do what we want when most other countries are bound by a more extensive international decorum.

In interviews in Spain, Italy, South America, etc... we were described as a disrespectful people--of our elderly, our sick, our neighbors etc... That our priorities were wrong with healthcare and education and a visible disdain was the result. Despite our tremendous power.

Terrorism, on the other hand, is about chaos interruption, and skewed religious beliefs resulting statement actions.

Whereas I am inclined to think that the steady, methodical approach and controlled demeanor we have seen from Obama will continue in his interaction with our global neighbors, probably resulting over time in less anti-American sentiment; I'm not sure if it will lessen terrorism bent on U.S. disruption. Because they are about statement actions, terrorists will strive to make the largest statements when possible.

America is an advanced target. Whereas part of the activity, on our soil which we have seen, has been reprisal for our actions abroad (arguable) and may lessen *some*, we are still seen as the place to make the biggest statement. "Attack the infidel power!" I'm not convinced we're much more, or less, of a target due to an immanent change in leadership and subsequently global decorum and perception. Their actions can't be just about targeting strength--China is arguably stronger in military might. But they tend to keep to themselves relative to our activity abroad. Perhaps they too will become more of a target. They have had some small activity, in 1992, and a "foiled plot" in Beijing in 2009. Other than some minor Seperatist Muslim activity, they're okay.

Simply put, I believe *general* anti-American sentiments will lessen, but I am inclined to think that any planned path of terrorist interruptions will continue more or less as they have; even with this new President-Elect. Whether or not they will step things up because Obama is a Democrat which some perceive as militarily flacid, who can know? I *do* think they see him differently than many Americans do. I think they seem him as shrewd. Intellegent. Controlled. Perhaps even unpredicable. That may not equate to a desired conflict."

We invite you to join the conversation--what do you think? Agree? disagree? have more options to add to the consideration?

YES WE CAN: Barack Obama's Presidential Acceptance Speech

Written by steven hall on at 2:14 AM

(Speech below) At the time of writing, 90% of all precincts have reported, John McCain has conceded and delivered one of the most gracious and stirring concession speeches in recent history, and Barack Obama has won the new designation of "President Elect" with 338 of the electoral votes (270 were needed).

It feels like we are now, as a country, huddled, looking forward to new possibilities and daring to hope for wisdom and a brighter future for our families, our jobs, our homes, our economy. However this has been a hard fought battle for both parties, and the residue left for many are the harsh words that have sometimes passed among friends impassioned for their respective candidate. May we all mirror the graciousness and wisdom that was heard in the speeches of both. May we put aside our partisan divides and remember we are, and have been, friends. May we move forward seeking to be a part of promised change, doing our part to increase hope as the spark of new leadership, Presidential leadership, is immanent and preparing for the task at hand. Great thanks to both Senator John McCain for his service to this nation, and to President Elect Barack Obama for answering the call from relative political obscurity to embody the phrase, "YES WE CAN!"

President-Elect Barack Obama's Acceptance Speech

Grant Park, Chicago
November 4
Listen as you read:

BARACK OBAMA:

Hello Chicago!

If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.

It's the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has never seen; by people who waited three hours and four hours, many for the very first time in their lives, because they believed that this time must be different; that their voice could be that difference.

It's the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled -- Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been a collection of Red States and Blue States: we are, and always will be, the United States of America.

It's the answer that led those who have been told for so long by so many to be cynical, and fearful, and doubtful of what we can achieve to put their hands on the arc of history and bend it once more toward the hope of a better day.

It's been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America.

I just received a very gracious call from Senator McCain. He fought long and hard in this campaign, and he's fought even longer and harder for the country he loves. He has endured sacrifices for America that most of us cannot begin to imagine, and we are better off for the service rendered by this brave and selfless leader. I congratulate him and Governor Palin for all they have achieved, and I look forward to working with them to renew this nation's promise in the months ahead.

I want to thank my partner in this journey, a man who campaigned from his heart and spoke for the men and women he grew up with on the streets of Scranton and rode with on that train home to Delaware, the Vice President-elect of the United States, Joe Biden.

I would not be standing here tonight without the unyielding support of my best friend for the last sixteen years, the rock of our family and the love of my life, our nation's next First Lady, Michelle Obama. Sasha and Malia, I love you both so much, and you have earned the new puppy that's coming with us to the White House. And while she's no longer with us, I know my grandmother is watching, along with the family that made me who I am. I miss them tonight, and know that my debt to them is beyond measure.

To my campaign manager David Plouffe, my chief strategist David Axelrod, and the best campaign team ever assembled in the history of politics -- you made this happen, and I am forever grateful for what you've sacrificed to get it done.

But above all, I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to -- it belongs to you.

I was never the likeliest candidate for this office. We didn't start with much money or many endorsements. Our campaign was not hatched in the halls of Washington -- it began in the backyards of Des Moines and the living rooms of Concord and the front porches of Charleston.

It was built by working men and women who dug into what little savings they had to give five dollars and ten dollars and twenty dollars to this cause. It grew strength from the young people who rejected the myth of their generation's apathy; who left their homes and their families for jobs that offered little pay and less sleep; from the not-so-young people who braved the bitter cold and scorching heat to knock on the doors of perfect strangers; from the millions of Americans who volunteered, and organized, and proved that more than two centuries later, a government of the people, by the people and for the people has not perished from this Earth. This is your victory.

I know you didn't do this just to win an election and I know you didn't do it for me. You did it because you understand the enormity of the task that lies ahead. For even as we celebrate tonight, we know the challenges that tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime -- two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century. Even as we stand here tonight, we know there are brave Americans waking up in the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan to risk their lives for us. There are mothers and fathers who will lie awake after their children fall asleep and wonder how they'll make the mortgage, or pay their doctor's bills, or save enough for college. There is new energy to harness and new jobs to be created; new schools to build and threats to meet and alliances to repair.

The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We may not get there in one year or even one term, but America -- I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there. I promise you -- we as a people will get there.

There will be setbacks and false starts. There are many who won't agree with every decision or policy I make as President, and we know that government can't solve every problem. But I will always be honest with you about the challenges we face. I will listen to you, especially when we disagree. And above all, I will ask you join in the work of remaking this nation the only way it's been done in America for two-hundred and twenty-one years -- block by block, brick by brick, calloused hand by calloused hand.

What began twenty-one months ago in the depths of winter must not end on this autumn night. This victory alone is not the change we seek -- it is only the chance for us to make that change. And that cannot happen if we go back to the way things were. It cannot happen without you.

So let us summon a new spirit of patriotism; of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves, but each other. Let us remember that if this financial crisis taught us anything, it's that we cannot have a thriving Wall Street while Main Street suffers -- in this country, we rise or fall as one nation; as one people.

Let us resist the temptation to fall back on the same partisanship and pettiness and immaturity that has poisoned our politics for so long. Let us remember that it was a man from this state who first carried the banner of the Republican Party to the White House -- a party founded on the values of self-reliance, individual liberty, and national unity. Those are values we all share, and while the Democratic Party has won a great victory tonight, we do so with a measure of humility and determination to heal the divides that have held back our progress. As Lincoln said to a nation far more divided than ours, "We are not enemies, but friends...though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection." And to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn -- I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your President too.

And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of our world -- our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand. To those who would tear this world down -- we will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security -- we support you. And to all those who have wondered if America's beacon still burns as bright -- tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from our the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity, and unyielding hope.

For that is the true genius of America -- that America can change. Our union can be perfected. And what we have already achieved gives us hope for what we can and must achieve tomorrow.

This election had many firsts and many stories that will be told for generations. But one that's on my mind tonight is about a woman who cast her ballot in Atlanta. She's a lot like the millions of others who stood in line to make their voice heard in this election except for one thing -- Ann Nixon Cooper is 106 years old.

She was born just a generation past slavery; a time when there were no cars on the road or planes in the sky; when someone like her couldn't vote for two reasons -- because she was a woman and because of the color of her skin.

And tonight, I think about all that she's seen throughout her century in America -- the heartache and the hope; the struggle and the progress; the times we were told that we can't, and the people who pressed on with that American creed: Yes we can.

At a time when women's voices were silenced and their hopes dismissed, she lived to see them stand up and speak out and reach for the ballot. Yes we can.

When there was despair in the dust bowl and depression across the land, she saw a nation conquer fear itself with a New Deal, new jobs and a new sense of common purpose. Yes we can.

When the bombs fell on our harbor and tyranny threatened the world, she was there to witness a generation rise to greatness and a democracy was saved. Yes we can.

She was there for the buses in Montgomery, the hoses in Birmingham, a bridge in Selma, and a preacher from Atlanta who told a people that "We Shall Overcome." Yes we can.

A man touched down on the moon, a wall came down in Berlin, a world was connected by our own science and imagination. And this year, in this election, she touched her finger to a screen, and cast her vote, because after 106 years in America, through the best of times and the darkest of hours, she knows how America can change. Yes we can.

America, we have come so far. We have seen so much. But there is so much more to do. So tonight, let us ask ourselves -- if our children should live to see the next century; if my daughters should be so lucky to live as long as Ann Nixon Cooper, what change will they see? What progress will we have made?

This is our chance to answer that call. This is our moment. This is our time -- to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American Dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth -- that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we can't, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people:

Yes We Can. Thank you, God bless you, and may God Bless the United States of America.

-- Taken from the public domain

Watch the complete speech on CNN.com here.

<Transcendental Grade for our strong and embattled candidate: 6/7 Chakras

Gary Vaynerchuk's Keynote at Tech Cocktail Building Community and Becoming a R.A.T

Written by steven hall on Monday, October 27, 2008 at 5:24 PM



From the Chicago Tech Report

Danny Choo - Rick Trooper

Written by steven hall on Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at 12:30 AM




Yes, this is Danny Choo - former site manager for AMAZON.com...product manager for Microsoft and CEO of Mirai, Inc.

Transcendental grade for booty-shakin storm trooper: 6.5/7 chakras. Good boy, Danny.

Breaking News: Obama Roasts McCain at Al Smith Dinner.

Written by steven hall on Saturday, October 18, 2008 at 4:07 PM



This...is...hilarious.

Transcendental grade for A+ speech writers: 6/7 chakras

The 3rd Presidential Debate

Written by steven hall on Wednesday, October 15, 2008 at 8:39 PM

Wow.

Okay. I have sat on the couch, watching now, until the whole ACORN thing. It's not that I don't think that McCain is a bad guy or couldn't do the job better the W did; he may vey well be able to. BUT. The guy is childish. Cutting off Obama and jumping on his statements left and right. He has a couple of points, and re-routes whatever question is currently being asked back to being able to give those same answers. again. Yes, this is a political debate tactic. But not THIS much. An apologist, and make no mistakes the POTUS *should* be, can use that tactic and not seem evasive. Because they are sharp.

Am I making a comparison against normal public office? NO. I'm making a comparison against the needs of, arguably, the most powerful office in the world, and what it will take to have that office respected around the world again. 10 years ago, McCain was sharp enough to marshal the enormous skillset the office demands. A skillset belonging to the likes of Reagan, Clinton, and Nixon, with a bit of Bush Sr. thrown in.

We haven't had a *President* in a long time. We've had someone sitting at the desk. Nothing against McCain stance or knowledge--he's just not sharp enough apologetically, and with regards to his demeanor.

Now about Obama. He's not the whole package either--he has the skillset but not the experience. Here's the thing--he can council with people with experience and then implement those stances by himself. McCain may have some of the answers, but doesn't purport himself in adrenaline situations as someone garning the awe and respect a President should. Obama will get experience. McCain, with all due respect, will get older and lose more of his ability to do this. Even just now he said, "I admire [Obamas] eloquence..." duh. His eloquence can be shaped by a cabinet with the clout to do it. McCain will still come across like a needy, slightly frenetic Bush, with a sprinkling of crotchity emotionalism, cutting people off and chiming the same things over and over again.

On Economy - Still waiting for McCain to talk long term.
Starting watch twitter to get some other feedback. Here is:

@Sara, "Sarah Palin will NEVER be my role model." or

@timoni, "McCain is a big baby." and then a few minutes later, "McCain is a big--oh, wait, I just twittered that." or
@ricksanchezcnn, "what's with the loud breathing? seriously, it may be getting on people's nerves. he really should be looking at his opponent..."

The things that are being tweeted by *hoardes* of people isn't nearly about McCain's policies--they're writing that he simply doesn't have what it takes to BE the President. I am not alone. Go to Twitter search, and search on #debate08. Read what the 1000's of comments are saying.

A GREAT comment by Obama deals with the fact that so many of the "ugly" issues and campaign comments, are difficult issues that *great* leaders are divided on. We may have to perform some triage on America and Americans. At least Obama is leaning to care for the needs of the many. McCain is so busy pointing the finger at everything that may *sound* ugly, but will actually do the job over the long term, it further demonstrates he isn't fit for office -- he simply wants to win.

Worst Best-Man EVER

Written by steven hall on at 5:19 PM

See more funny videos and TBT Videos at Today's Big Thing.


Transcendental Grade for the Best Man: Yup--were back to the Wang Saen Suk scale for this: 6.1/7 Suks.

Palin as President Website / Game

Written by steven hall on at 3:39 PM

Very funny spoof site / game that is very well done, creative, and should provide some laughs from just about everyone I think. At least everyone without a stick in their bum. Just because I voted for W last time didn't mean I didn't laugh like a coot when JibJab vids hit the scene over and over again... NOW then; enjoy:


Even though there are no attributions on the site as to who created it, after digging through registrant entries I'd like to offer a special shout-out to Steve Yee of LA, who appears to be the registrant of the site and possibly the creator too? hmm? hmm? And also a big *thanks* to @JackJett for breaking this on twitter. You can hear him on the Jack E. Jett Show on Rational Radio.

Transcendental grade for Palin as President website: 5.78 / 7 chakras

Packing. Sucks.

Written by steven hall on Saturday, October 11, 2008 at 11:00 PM

I'm slowly packing my apartment. My island in the sky that has, in so many ways, been a place of fun, but also a place of solace. Right now I'm sitting at my desk; about a foot and a half from the wall of glass that makes up the end wall of my apartment. The one granting me the view that spans the new Cowboys stadium construction, the Anatole, 35E, a couple of hospitals, Texas stadium, Love Field, DFW, Turtle Creek alley, and more. Here it is:

I'm feeling very nostalgic for this view already, and I have not yet left. Back to packing. There's more of this entry to come.

Transcendental grade for "The View": 7/7 chakras

McCain loses it and calls us "my fellow prisoners" oops

Written by steven hall on Thursday, October 09, 2008 at 12:45 PM

McCain loses it and calls us "my fellow prisoners" instead of Americans:


Vice Presidential Candidate Sarah Palin watches the debate...

Written by steven hall on Tuesday, October 07, 2008 at 10:05 PM

...from the "Boli's on the Boulevard" restaurant in Greenville, North Carolina. (PHOTO CREDIT: BETHANY SWAIN CNN)

Now...I'm just a simple lad from Scotland. But I can see Russia from my penthouse when I wear the blue kilt. So be patient with me as I muse over this great photo by CNN's Bethany Swain. So--McCain is having a debate with Obama. [aside] "okay so that's a pretty big deal; probably a great moment to show party peep solidarity.. or..." [end aside]. Okay so *why* isn't she someplace more official to watch this? Like the wings of the venue? Or backstage? Or party headquarters? Oh, wait, judging my the beer (go Palin!) I guess it IS party HQ...

I really feel for a poor dunce who may be feeling like they should be ready to stand and support, or maybe make an official statement about a running mate having a debate--but it takes someone with huge, "possibly-presidential" swagger and a true aloofness of national leadership style...to throw on a wind-breaker and head down to the local for a pitcher of Bud. Judging by the lack of an ostensible security perimeter, it would appear no one was really worried for her safety while out mingling with the bar folk. She was told to leave the gun in her hotel room... My friends--there can be no substitute for top-tier-leadership class -- er, wait, no wait-- it just might be Stella Artois she's drinking. Note the fine light-golden hue and effervescance. Nevermind, I take it all back.

Transcendental grade for coming across *so* regular you look out of place in a Presidential Election race: sorry folks we're going to have to go to the Wang Saen Suk scale for this: 5/7 Suks.

Holy Hocky Mom! After further investigatoryishness I have the official story!:

Boli's on the Boulevard is located at 703 S.E. Greenville Blvd., across the parking lot from Kmart in the former location of Courtyard Tavern. It's the sister restaurant of Boli's on Fifth Street, 123 E. Fifth St. in downton Greenville.[Near the KMART--it's starting to make sense]

The dining room has sage green walls and light wood trim. There is seating for 120 at booths, tables and bar stools. There are eight high-definition televisions and a big screen TV over the bar, but Tesoriero said the new restaurant is “more a family-friendly restaurant than a sports bar.”[NO Moose heads or other taxidermy]

It's primarily Italian, with a variety of pizzas, calzones, strombolis and pasta dishes. Several new pasta dishes have been added, including manicotti, blackened chicken pasta, eggplant parmesan pasta, crab meat lasagna and ravioli. Pasta dishes are served with a house salad and range in price from $9.95-$14.95.Pizzas range in price from a $3 personal pizza to the large Behemoth with multiple toppings for $21.45.

Boli's on the Boulevard has all ABC permits. [It's a good thing with no moose heads hanging...]

So there you have it! She was watching the debate across from K-Mart!

What. oh. you wanted the other scoop? picky picky... here ya go:

Palin Watching Debate at N.C. Pizzeria

The Post's Perry Bacon Jr. is in Greenville, N.C., where he filed a pool report on GOP vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin watching the presidential debate. A modified version of his report follows:

The Alaska governor arrived at Boli's on the Boulevard here in Greenville about ten minutes before 9 p.m. She had changed from her suit and high heels into jeans, an Eastern Carolina purple windbreaker and brown shoes. She shook hands and posed for pictures for about ten minutes. She then sat down at a table with N.C. Republican Sens. Richard Burr and Elizabeth Dole, Burr's wife, and the mayor of Charlotte. Palin dined on pizza and spaghetti.[So this oviously IS an official gathering of powers - my bad. I was completely and utterly wrong and I apologize for focusing on the proximity to K-mart and lack of moose heads]

During the debate, when McCain spoke, Palin exclaimed "yes" when he answered a bailout question by talking about energy independence. She had a pen and paper out and occasionally took notes, but mostly either watched the screen or typed on her mobile phone. [do I really need to make a statement about her taking notes--possibly something to do with "cramming for a test" or some other telling event in her future?...]

Disclaimer:
Even though it may appear so, I did not go to NC to hunt this story down. I re-posted it, with [editorial additions], for the purpose of making light of a circumstance that might actually be troubling to some. No animals were hurt in the article. And similarity to persons living, or deceased is strictly coincident...oops, wrong disclaimer.

Folks--don't take this too seriously. It's a joke. In a way not to terribly unlike many points in this race...

Oh btw, here's how CNN scored the debate. Not definitive, mind you, but still:

Obama won.

The New Dollar Bill

Written by steven hall on at 6:22 PM


With the downward spiral of the stock markets, the government has released this special edition of the dollar.

Time for Fulmer to go

Written by steven hall on at 9:53 AM

TN is one of the premier athletics programs in the country. When it comes to fund-raising, the alumni association and the annual fund, the VOLS have got to live up to expectations, otherwise donations diminish.

Now--Fulmer did his part garnering a national title, and raising the VOL bar so expectations sit where they do. However "what have you done for me lately" is still the name of the game. It comes down to fiscal matters. And it comes down to the coach being the place where the buck stops. Whether it is coincidental fumbles multiple times in a season resulting in losses, or starting line members in jail, or bad coaching decisions, or simply getting beat--it can only happen for a limited time before no one dealing with money cares.

The university will deal on friendly relationships as long as possible but when push comes to shove business is business and Fulmer has needed to FIND a way to get the victory and he hasn't. And doesn't appear to be any closer to do it either.

I thank him for what he's done in the past, but it is time for him to move to another venue and allow new blood to shake up the Vol Nation.

I particularly agree with "Saturday in Blogtober's" diatribe. Fulmer HAS done a lot for the program as stated above. But despite liking him, it doesn't appear he will be able to "right the ship". See SIB for a great list of possible coaching replacements.

Transcendental grade for Phillip Fulmer: 4/7 chakras. And 3 of the 4 are for the national title he won back in '98.

Sarah Palin Debate Flowchart

Written by steven hall on Friday, October 03, 2008 at 4:05 PM

-- mad props to Aden Nak for this one. www.adennak.com --
And before the rest of my peeps from the right jihad my blog for posting this -- I'm just waiting for someone to send me a Biden or Obama chart...ya know just to keep politics nice and balanced.

Transcendental grade for Palin's debate skills: 4.5/7 chakras when I thought they'd be 1.352/7 chakras.
Transcendental grade for the viral nature of this darn chart: 5.5/7 chakras.


a bit later....

and now this tidbit--props to Kristin for the lead and to the General for the art:

http://patriotboy.blogspot.com/

And I reiterate: I'm waiting for the Democratic charts to pop over to me so I can post them too--because I know they're out there *somewhere*!

Jessica Alba Muzzled

Written by steven hall on Thursday, October 02, 2008 at 11:39 PM


This is you when you choose not to vote.

www.DeclareYourself.com


Don't Vote. Why would you?

Written by steven hall on at 4:29 PM


www.DeclareYourself.com

Trancendental grade for stars who lead: 6.99/7 chakras. (what, they still have stardom...)

props to Meredith for the heads up on this. thanks m-fo.

Movie Heads Up: "The Soloist" starring Jamie Foxx & Robert Downey, Jr.

Written by steven hall on at 4:25 PM


Downey Jr. is on fire these days with the success of Iron Man. We all know Jamie can act. Watch this trailer. It will begin to move you before it's over. Watch for this movie--it's gonna be a big hit. Opens November 21.


Baltika Nos. 6, 7 & 9 Now at the Ginger Man Pub

Written by steven hall on Wednesday, October 01, 2008 at 11:30 AM

Last year I was at the home of Alexander Rom, the Ukrainian-born Chorusmaster for the Dallas Opera. We normally were inclined to vodka, with Findlandia being his choice, but this evening he had something special. He said, "Steven. You must see this. I have something you will like..." and he pulls from the ice cooler a bottle of the Baltika No. 9 Extra Lager; bottled and brewed in St. Petersburg, Russia.

Think Mared Sous 10, only much creamier. As if it had been made with hint of nitrogen.

It is without a doubt one of my favorite beers on the planet, if not the favorite. I bounce back and forth between it, the Mared Sous, and, of course, the Guinness.

Such a fan of it, I invited Courtney & Neil from the G-man to come over to my place for a tasting of the lineup. I think the Dark Lager may have been the fav, but also they were impressed by the 9. After finding them a sales rep out of Houston, who sent them a case of samples which took 2.3 seconds to inhale, I'm proud to announce that 3 Baltika offerings are now available at the G-man:

Baltika 6 Porter
60 kcal/100 g beer
6 g carb / 100 g beer
7% by Volume
Initial wort concentration: 17.0%
"This traditional dark beer is brewed according to ancient English recipes. Baltika's Porter is one of the most eminent varieties of Russian beer with a long heritage. Such dark porters are usually termed 'Baltic Porters.'"

Transendental grade for Baltika 6 Porter: 5/7 chakras.

Baltika 7 Export Lager
44 kcal/100 g beer
4.5g carb / 100 g beer
5.4% by Volume
Initial wort concentration: 12.5%
"This elite beer is notable for its special mildness and full-bodied taste."
Transendental grade for Baltika7 Export Lager: 4.5/7 chakras.

Baltika 9 Extra
62 kcal/100 g beer
3.7 g carb / 100 g beer
8% by Volume
Initial wort concentration: 16.5%
"This beer is brewed from select ingredients using the most up-to-date technology. It uniquely combines a strong beverage with lightness of taste."
Transendental grade for Baltika 9 Extra Lager: 6/7 chakras.

About Baltika Brewery
Baltika Brewery began production in 1990. The majority of the company's shares (85%) are owned by Baltic Beverages Holding (BBH), which is a subsidiary of Carlsberg Group. Baltika has eighteen breweries, ten of which are located in Russia: two in Saint Petersburg and one each in Khabarovsk, Tula, Rostov-na-Donu, Samara, Yaroslavl, Voronezh, Chelyabinsk and Krasnoyarsk. Their combined output totals 24 million hectoliters per year. Along with the Baltika plants, the BBH consortium operates ten smaller breweries producing its Yarpivo, Pikra and Vena brands.

LINKS: Ginger Man Pub Dallas | Baltika U.S. | Baltika Russia (Eng) | Baltika Russia (Русско)

Big sky sunsets from deep in the 20B

Written by steven hall on Tuesday, September 30, 2008 at 5:30 PM

These photos are taken from my balcony with a Casio EX-Z1000 10mp camera. I'll be moving in a couple of weeks and will sorely miss the view. To see more photos, visit my flickr.









All rights reserved. All photos are by Steven Hall and are restricted from use without express permission of the photographer. Copyright 2008.

Transcendental grade for God's sunsets 7/7 chakras.

The Meridian Room Closes. RIP

Written by steven hall on at 10:03 AM

http://www.TheMeridianRoom.com

Gone are the green fairies.

Gone is the Scza. The cheese plates. The great beers. Scarioke. The best club sandwich in Dallas. The Guinness Steak Sandwich. The portabello mushroom fries. The half-priced food on Wednesdays. The echos of laughter with friends. The dark corners to disappear in to.

After a 7-year run, as so many area businesses have done, The Meridian Room has closed their doors. A moment of silence please.

A long time favorite of Dallas Opera peeps, we headed over there last night to catch up and have a few cocktails only to find ourselves looking at stacked chairs, a somber staff collecting up their personal items, taking pictures and having a few last minutes together within the confines of, what has been, one of two places in the fair park area in which it was worth investing time and hard-earned cash. The other is Amsterdam bar around the corner. God bless Mike Sheel for keeping his doors open. It was quiet in there. Quiet. As in you could hear the faint refrains from the back hallway of the Galaga/Ms. Packman game. So sad.

We, Alexander & I, had a moment with the owner of Meridian Room inquiring as to what happened. The soft-spoken response was simply that, having had Libertine [bar] open on Greenville for nearly 2 years successfully, they had decided to "move their interest there fully."

But right at the beginning of the Fair? When they would have been packed nightly? Doesn't seem to make sense to me. But then crying over spilt milk doesn't either--even if it's some of the best milk this area has seen in a long while. I think DART killed her. Meridian was to drink and song (karaoke) what Hungree's deli was, for so long, to food. Who can forget their "Cubano" sandwich? And, just like Hungree's died before her time was right--so has The Divine Miss M.

If you have a particular memory to share, comment back and leave it for others to see and remember.

One of my favorite, albeit shocking, memories that comes to mind is during Thursday night Scarioke. I had just finished singing some Bon Jovi, it was about midnight, the place was packed. As I muddled my way back to all the opera peeps I heard the next song start up--"I've got big balls" by AC/DC. I turned, thinking to myself, "yeah I love this song" only to see who was singing it....Naked Bruce, in all his glory, with his beer standing on his belly. good times.
Transcendental grade for The Meridean Room's 7-year itch: 7/7 chakras

Also see article in D Magazine's frontburner

On the Aftermath of the Failed $700B Bailout

Written by steven hall on Monday, September 29, 2008 at 5:58 PM

Here is an excerpt on "Where we go now" by Jon Hilsenrath of the Wall Street Journal:

3 things to look for in the aftermath of the House's failure to pass the $700 Billion bailout:

1. Congress: seems to be an opening act. Members of both sides will be going back to the drawing board to see if there are any changes to be made to reach a middle ground.

2. Markets: The DOW is way off today, as are credit markets, and will probably continue tomorrow. As long as these pressures continue to build the pressure will be on the house to find a resolution.

3. Treasury Department & Federal Reserve: Not clear at this point if Congress will be able to find a resolution, therefore the Fed may have to also go back to the drawing board to look for new ways to address this financial crisis. This could involve interest rate cuts, but the Fed has been reluctant to do this any more. They must also look for new ways to inject liquidity in to the financial markets.
What should investors do now?

Jason Zweig writes in "The Intelligent Investor":
Wall Street is dead.

Whether it was murder or suicide is beside the point; Wall Street as it has operated for the past 75 years has been obliterated in a matter of weeks. And witnessing this violent death in broad daylight has traumatized investors everywhere.

The Wall Street domino has toppled everything in sight: U.S. stocks large and small, within the financial industry and outside of it; foreign stocks; oil and other commodities; real estate investment trusts; formerly booming emerging markets like India and China. Even gold, although it has inched up lately, has lost 10% from its highs earlier this year. Not even cash seemed entirely safe, as money-market funds barely averted a "run on the bank."

Of all the dominos that have tipped over, the most psychologically damaging collapse was the last: the very notion of diversification itself.

According to the researchers at Morningstar, Inc., 91% of all mutual funds in existence have lost money so far this year. To put that in perspective, in 2001 – the year Enron imploded, Internet stocks kept crashing and al Qaeda attacked the U.S. – more than one out of every three funds still managed to generate positive returns.

...the resolve of the Fed is not in question; nor is there any doubt that the Treasury department is willing to provide the financing it takes to get the economy moving again. Furthermore, U.S. non-financial companies have just under $1 trillion in cash on their books. Even though Wall Street is dead, innovation is not: In the months to come, clever new financial go-betweens will spring up and find a way to get that cash flowing again. It's hard to see how a depression could get underway when so much capital is waiting in the wings.

Whatever happens with the bailout, don't bail out.
Read the Full article here on "The Intelligent Investor"

Utilizing Technology in the Presidential Campaigns

Written by steven hall on Saturday, September 27, 2008 at 1:52 AM

There is no questions that even among the last 10 years of technological increase it seems we are perpetually, exponentially, increasing still. So it my curiosity is whet as I look to see how each of the two primary Presidential candidates have utilized this industry to reach their constituents, both new and old.

The clear edge in tech clearly goes to Obama, as he has predominantly relied on it to both raise money (record amounts) yet also to keep his "followers" apprised of his goings-on. Just a few moments ago, as I have daily, it seems, I recieved this email from Obama:

Steven --

I just finished my first debate with John McCain.

Millions of Americans finally got a chance to see us take on the fundamental choice in this election -- the change we need or more of the same.

...[edited out the rest]

Thank you for all that you're doing,
Barack

Twitter.com, which has feeds for both candidates is also a telling factor: McCain has 5 posts to Obama's 200+.

okay my battery light is flashing at me so there is more to come on this--but I welcome your thoughts and responses!

Okay back on line here. My battery did, indeed die about 20 seconds after I finished the above....

For me the importance of this topic is that we live in a world of technology--it is absolutely pervasive in our lives in America--for most the world too. Be it economy, emergent health trends, communications, warfare, intelligence--all of this is utterly dependent on technology or we find ourselves back in the stone age in pretty short order.

Is it important for the leader of the greatest country in the world to have a grasp on technology? I think so--and I recognize that no one really can know it all. But take in to account that in this election race, we are, as a nation, sitting at our TVs, but probably spending more time at our PCs just *waiting* to be talked to, I find it odd that only one of the candidates is reaching out utilizing the very ordinary technologies of the day--online video and email. He's also tapping in to some new technology to, like twitter.com and a website with some very advanced programming. To be sure CNN and others have plenty of that for us to consume -- but Obama's crowd have taken the technology "bull" by the horns and made it subservient to the goal of his possible Presidency. Should he win, I believe it will be as much for this reason as it is his message.

I see this insight to act in ways that resonate with our times as an important one. It means he's aware. It means he is willing to go a different route, stepping outside the boundaries of the historic technological campaign trends.

This is not to say he'll win because of the planks in his platform. This isn't about that. It's about an opinion that thinks we ought to consider that the way a candidate pursues his goals may be as telling, to a degree, as the goal itself.

If McCain didn't realize the best way to get the message out to millions of Americans should also include very ordinary, not to mention inexpensive, technologies--in what other antiquated ways will he act? Will he be cutting edge in a world full of advances? I think it is a consideration worth weighing.

The Dallas Summer Musicals 2008-09 Season Lineup

Written by steven hall on at 12:56 AM

I have just turn on,about an hour ago at midnite, the new website for Dallas Summer Musicals showing the new lineup of shows. I am particularly excited about RAT PACK LIVE FROM THE SANDS and possibly RENT, which I have never seen. TARZAN, of course should be very entertaining, and MARY POPPINS, from what I could tell from the video snippet on the showpage, offers a very cool presentation of a timeless classic. Here's the lineup:

Democrat & Republican Convention Schedules

Written by steven hall on at 12:34 AM

Here was the originally proposed schedules for the democrat and republican conventions.

2008 Democratic National Convention Schedule

7:00 P.M. Opening flag burning.
7:15 P.M. Pledge of Allegiance to the United Nations.
7:30 PM. Ted Kennedy proposes a toast.
7:30 till 8:00 P.M. Nonreligious prayer and worship: Jessie Jackson and Al Sharpton.
8:00 P.M. Ted Kennedy proposes a toast.
8:05 P.M Ceremonial tree hugging.
8:15- 8:30 P.M. Gay Wedding: Barney Frank, presiding.
8:30 P.M. Ted Kennedy proposes a toast.
8:35 P.M. Free Saddam Rally: Cindy Sheehan, Susan Sarandon.
9:00 P.M. Keynote speech: "The Proper Etiquette for Surrender" French President Jacques Chirac.
9:15 P.M. Ted Kennedy proposes a toast.
9:20 P.M. Collection to benefit Osama Bin Laden Kidney Transplant Fund.
9:30 P.M. Unveiling of plan to free freedom fighters from Guantanamo Bay: Sean Penn.
9:40 P.M. Why I hate the Military: A short talk by William Jefferson Clinton.
9:45 P.M. Ted Kennedy proposes a toast.
9:50 P.M. Dan Rather receives "Truth in Broadcasting" award, presented by Michael Moore.
9:55 P.M., Ted Kennedy proposes a toast.
10:00 P.M. Presentation: "How George Bush and Donald Rumsfeld brought down the World Trade Center Towers", by Howard Dean.
10:30 P.M. Nomination of Hillary Rodham Clinton for President by Mahmud Ahnadinejad.
11:00 P.M. Ted Kennedy proposes a toast.
11:05 P.M. Al Gore reinvents the Internet.
11:15 P.M. "Our Generals are War Criminals", presented by John Kerry.
11:30 P.M Coronation of Mrs. Hillary Rodham Clinton.
12:00 AM. Ted Kennedy proposes a toast.
12:05 A.M Bill asks Ted to drive Hillary home.


2008 Republican National Convention Schedule

7:00 pm - Ceremonial burning of the U.S. Constitution
7:15 pm - Spiritual Medium Sylvia Browne performs psychic séance in desperate attempt to raise Ronald Reagan from the grave
7:35 pm - "The Pleasures of Adultery" - with Newt Gingrich & Rudy Giuliani
8:05 pm - Gay sex party in Men's Restroom hosted by Senator Larry Craig
8:35 pm - Transvestite Ann Coulter - "My Life as a Man"
8:55 pm - Live satellite feed from Federal Prison - Ohio Rep. Bob Ney
9:05 pm - Guest speaker ex-Florida Congressman Mark Foley " Joys with Young Boys"
9:25 pm - Oliver North - " Iran is Evil, but I sold them weapons anyway"
9:40 pm - Bill O' Reilly - " The costs of sexual harassment and phone sex with employees", and a discussion on "Fooling America with fake news"
10:00 pm - Gay sex party in Men's Room hosted by Ken Mehlman and Geraldo Rivera
10:25 pm - Check John McCain to see if he's still breathing and if his adult diaper needs changed.
10:35 pm - N.R.A. President hosts an assault riffle target practice on Gays and Mexicans.
10:45 pm - Call emergency squad after a drunken Dick Cheney accidentally shoots his friend in the face.
11:00 pm - President Bush performs his hilarious comedy routine where he looks for Iraq's fictitious WMD's under guests tables while ignoring Bin Laden.
11:15 pm - Governor Mike Huckabee does his famous uncanny imitation of Gomer Pyle.
11:20 pm - Group intervention to get Rush Limbaugh back into drug rehab
11: 45 pm - Go up on rooftop and throw rocks down at homeless Vets sleeping in alley.
12:00 am - Live satellite feed from Federal Prison - California Congressman Randy "Duke" Cunningham 12:20 am - Convicted felon/Fox News analyst G. Gordon Liddy - Lock picking secrets and disinformation campaigns
12: 40 am - Guest speakers Donald Rumsfeld and Paul Wolfowitz - "How to lie your Country into a War"
1:00 am - Former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay - "Tips on Money Laundering"
1:15 am - Hookers arrive for after party

okay 10 paces then turn and fire...

Transcendental grade for no political party *really* worth following 3/7 chakras.

Greatest prank phone call ever

Written by steven hall on at 12:08 AM


This is completements of Nick French, a buddy of mine in CO. It does, however bring to mind the 100s of annoying solicitation calls I get on my phone each day. Another buddy of mine, Mike, has frequently spoken of having a air-horn available to blast into the receiver. My personal method is to suddenly morph in to the needy guy who is lonely and wants to have a new friend, begging them to stay on the line.

Transcendental grade for "Murder Scene Phone Prank" 6/7 chakras.

Dallas Summer Musicals 2008-09 Season Announcement

Written by steven hall on Thursday, September 25, 2008 at 12:51 PM

Hitler carnies of fair ground parking

Written by steven hall on Wednesday, September 24, 2008 at 10:03 AM

So this morning I'm in a bit of a hurry getting to work, and as I pulled into the front gate of the fair grounds, which haven't even opened yet, an old crotchety parking attendant jumps out in front of me, wearing coke bottles (I know, I know: bless his heart.), and yells SLOOWW DOOOWWNN! Of course I'm already stopped at this point.

Aside: It's not that he told me to slow down that annoyed me. It was the wide-eyed frantic waving of the hands by a person who can't see well enough to know I was already stopping, and then aggressively addressed me. It's the fact that during the fair, these people--carnies, really--come out of the wood-work to claim their temporary "4 weeks out of the year" power and proceed to go hitler on everyone who works there year round. It's ridiculous.

Now then, where was I? Ah yes, I rolled down my window and mentioned I was headed to the music hall and was in a hurry, to which he replied, "where are you going?"...[really? I just told you.] "to the music hall--I work there"...."well what do you do?"...."sorry no time to talk" [squealing tires because my saturn is a beast]...

SLLLOOOOOWWWW DDOOOWWNNN!
kiss my grits old man.

Transcendental grade for old hitler parking dude 1/7 chakras.

Insomnia. Can't turn my brain off.

Written by steven hall on at 1:26 AM

We are, at DSM, preparing to release our 2009 lineup of shows. I am a little on over-load (as is all of marketing) trying to get the new website completed so it can go live Friday at midnite. This is another one of those times that a wise person will, in the midst of being overwhelmed, admit the fact and then "hunker down" and maintain organization and communication until the jobs done.

Being organized is usually never an issue with me. The problem that I face now is that I can't turn my brain off at night. It is constantly bouncing through to-do's and a never-ending list of tasks that must be completed, complete with crystalline break-downs of each work-flow. That with opera rehearsals at night are slightly kickin' my ass. So I try to eat well, get whatever sleep I can, and make sure to exercise. Rode 5 miles tonight at 10pm just so I could keep from missing a day.

Five Finger Barefootin'

Written by steven hall on Tuesday, September 23, 2008 at 12:42 PM

Saw these on the street, then while reading one of my favorite blogs, "the Magnificent Bastard", saw them again. On the website, www.vibramfivefingers.com, they are described as:

"When you go barefoot, your movements become the movements of a child—playful and sensitive, yet purposeful and confident. You experience the unbound joy of stepping, hopping, and running across any surface on earth, simply to get from here to there.

Vibram FiveFingers® allow you to relive that sensation. Unlike conventional shoes that insulate you from your surroundings, FiveFingers footwear deepens your connection to the earth and your surroundings. FiveFingers enhance your sense of touch and feel, while improving foot strength, balance, agility, and range of motion. Because wearing Vibram FiveFingers is so close to going barefoot, you’ll enjoy the health and performance benefits of barefooting without some of the risks.

Outdoor enthusiasts have found FiveFingers to be the ideal crossover shoe for multiple sports and activities—from ChiRunning and bouldering to kayaking and windsurfing. Fitness enthusiasts use FiveFingers for core strength training, yoga and Pilates. Our customers continually discover new and creative uses for our alternative performance footwear."
I *must* have a pair of these soon.

Transcendental grade: 5.5 / 7 chakras

*picture from official site www.vibramfivefingers.com

Why is good leadership & organization so hard to find?

Written by steven hall on Monday, September 22, 2008 at 9:32 AM

I just love Mondays... not really, but I do love life. There so many things I love. Exceptional dumbass-ness is not one of them.

I work on the the State of Texas Fair Grounds and they are in full swing prepping everything for the grand opening of this year's state fair in just a few weeks. The amount of stupidity that is running around under hard-hats and helmets out there is awe-inspiring. Let's take parking: Each year the State Fair Administration under the direction of one E.M. commandeers all parking spaces and entrances/exits for the purpose of the fair. The problem is that for all of the staff, who work year-round at one of the venues, parking is removed. And the temp-working, little english-speaking tards who are supposed to direct us to our monthly hell of a parking situation, simply look at us with a blank expression of, "did I change my underpants this morning?" and then refuse to let us in the grounds.

To this end I attribute the title of this blog. I know there are people who are conscienciously working to maintain professionalism and good organization--and I work with a couple of them. So I wonder why it seems so few and far between that I encounter them? In an overload, it seems the first thing to go is communication. Like, "hey tard--when one of the valued staff needs to get in to park--LET THEM." See how that would take care of it? So simple; so overlooked.

If you *are* in a position of leadership, I emplore you to stay organized, get help when you need it, *recognize* that you need help, and then communicate, communicate, communicate. Please don't be a tard.

Here is a quiz to see if you're a good leader or a tard--good luck.

Transcendental grade for parking attendants: 0 out of 7 chakras

Have a similar or contrary opinion? Lemme have it!

ADDENDUM
Having now issued this diatribe on leader vs. tard -- thought I should take the quiz too. Looks like I'm not *too* far off!

SHW 2004 Shiraz / Sangiovese

Written by steven hall on Sunday, September 21, 2008 at 11:54 PM

It may be either fitting or horrific that I choose, as my first post, a review of the 2004 Southern Highland Winery Shiraz Sangiovese. Primarily because even though I have a distinct affinity for wine and the knowledge of it, I am mostly through the bottle and it is late. I also run the risk of having a reader (should there be one) think that this is a wine blog, which would be the current transcendental perception, only. There will be many entries on wine, but also on just about everything else from my current disdain for bad management to my pursuit of purchasing a Mercedes SL-500. So we shall see.

Let me start with a little background of the varietals. Shiraz is considered the 'workhorse grape' of Australia producing everything from light, sweet blush wines to fortified "ports" while Sangiovese is touted as the backbone of the Chianti blend. -society of wine educators

TRANSCENDENTAL GRADE: 4 out of 7 chakras

TRANSCENDENTAL STEVE (TS) REVIEW
On the nose there is most apparently to me aromas of raspberry, lavender and jam with spicy notes beneath.Also just a hint of earth and fungal notes. It is fruit-forward and acidic, to a point, However as the taste lingers you'll find the residual effects of the acidity linger too. I find this wine medium-bodied with

SHW WINERY TASTING NOTES
60% Shiraz + 40% Sangiovese

Grapes Picked
Sangiovese harvested April 2006 Shiraz harvested April 2006

Winemaking
The Sangiovese grapes were transported to the winery and crushed directly into an open stainless steel vessel. Warm fermentation at 28c for the complete 10 day ferment with a daily pumpover; this is a traditional old world winemaking technique. The shiraz followed, the batches were kept separate. The shiraz was fermented at 28c for a period of three days, cooling was applied to bring the ferment down to 22c for a further 10 days. During the ferment the shiraz was pumped over daily as well a malolatic culture added. Once both parcels were complete they were pressed off into stainless steel tanks. Following bench blends the 60% shiraz and 40% Sangiovese blend was selected, the wine was then racked and filtered. After six months the wine was balanced and prepared for bottling.

Region*
Australia's cool-climate regions are gaining world-wide pre-eminence. One such region is the Southern Highlands of New South Wales. The wines from this region have distinctive characters, elegance and varietal definition traditionally found in the world's classiest most elegant wines. Emergence of the region has occurred over a short period when recently the Geographical Indications Committee of the Australian Wine Board declared that it was a viticultural region of cool-climate significance. Vines were first planted in the region during the 1870's. It has only been in the last fifteen years that serious plantings have been undertaken again. The region now has sixty vineyards and eight wineries/cellar door.

A booming tourist destination just an hour down the M5 from Sydney Airport lies potentially one of the most exciting wine destinations in NSW. The Southern Highlands is yet to determine its best varieties, (that's how new it is!) early indications of outstanding wines from chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, riesling, pinot gris, pinot noir, merlot and some notable wines from cabernet sauvignon.

Southern Highland Wines Estate is situated near the delightful village of Sutton Forest on the Illawarra Highway. Our location is a tremendous asset, just over an hour from Sydney and Wollongong and under a leisurely two hours from Canberra. The extensive complex at Southern Highland Wines extends a warm welcome to all visitors, the tasting room is open for your discovery between 10.00am and 5.00pm every day.
*as stated on the SHW website