Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Beatles Update
Beatles Fans Await Upgraded Re-Releases - NYTimes.com: "Finally. After watching the Beatles’ company, Apple Corps, devote the last few years to developing a site-specific show in Las Vegas, a video game and a line of pricey memorabilia, Beatles fans are finally getting something they’ve been demanding for at least the last decade: sonically upgraded reissues of the group’s original British albums, in stereo and mono. Apple Corps and EMI announced on Tuesday that the much-postponed remasters would be released on individual stereo CDs and in two boxed sets — one stereo, the other mono — on Sept. 9, the same day the Beatles edition of Rock Band, the music video game, is scheduled for release."
Car Sales
Okay, Ed Gorman brought you the "trimming" commercial, so I'll bring you this one, via YesButNoButYes.
Wow. Deja Vu.
Remaking of films from the 1980s new trend in Hollywood | The Daily Telegraph: "With the US's No.1 movie Fast & Furious, a remake and basically the same cast as the 1991 movie of the same name . . . perhaps budding writers should take a look through mum and dad's old video collection.
Romancing the Stone, Footloose, A Nightmare on Elm Street, Dune, The Karate Kid, Red Dawn, RoboCop, The Big Chill, Arthur, Ghostbusters and The NeverEnding Story are all being developed into new movies, The Hollywood Reporter states.
Neil Moritz, who produced Fast & Furious, is developing a new version of the 1990 sci-fi hit Total Recall, which starred Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sharon Stone.
Lara Croft is being reborn eight years after the Angelina Jolie original.
Fox is reported to want to relaunch of its Fantastic Four franchise, which help launch the career of Jessica Alba.
Sony has also announced it will bring back Men in Black, which starred Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith in 1997 and 2002, for a third time."
Romancing the Stone, Footloose, A Nightmare on Elm Street, Dune, The Karate Kid, Red Dawn, RoboCop, The Big Chill, Arthur, Ghostbusters and The NeverEnding Story are all being developed into new movies, The Hollywood Reporter states.
Neil Moritz, who produced Fast & Furious, is developing a new version of the 1990 sci-fi hit Total Recall, which starred Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sharon Stone.
Lara Croft is being reborn eight years after the Angelina Jolie original.
Fox is reported to want to relaunch of its Fantastic Four franchise, which help launch the career of Jessica Alba.
Sony has also announced it will bring back Men in Black, which starred Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith in 1997 and 2002, for a third time."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Nimoy Stuns Austin Crowd with Secret Star Trek Premiere | The Underwire from Wired.com: "While a world of Trekkers believed the new J.J. Abrams Star Trek would premiere in Sydney, Australia Tuesday, Leonard Nimoy made a surprise appearance in Austin, Texas Monday night to screen the film for an unsuspecting audience."
Top 10 Lavish Ballpark Foods
RealClearSports - Top 10 Lavish Ballpark Foods - Top 10 Lavish Ballpark Foods: "The Major League Baseball season got in full swing Monday afternoon, with a majority of teams beginning their 2009 season. If you were one of the lucky fans that attended and Opening Day game, you may have noticed some new eats at your favorite ballpark. More and more teams are introducing new, lavish foods – it ain’t peanuts and Cracker Jacks anymore."
A tip of the Crider Astros cap to Art Scott.
A tip of the Crider Astros cap to Art Scott.
I'll Be at the Holiday Inn
Germany's first nudist hotel reveals all | Germany - Times Online: "It will be the most German of combinations: nudity and beach towels. After decades of sunbathing and camping in the buff, the legions of Teutonic naturists are about to get their very own holiday heaven — a completely clothing-free hotel."
Let the Right One In
A vampire moves in next door to a kid who's being bullied in school. He's lonely, she's lonely, and they're both 12 years old (she's been 12 for a long time). He accepts her without question, but then he doesn't know about her familiar, or whatever he is, who goes around killing people and draining their blood for her. Just why is never explained (or I missed it). Maybe she doesn't want to get caught, but this guy is the most inept serial killer in history if the two examples in the film are anything to go by. Could be he's just starting out, I guess. She doesn't mind killing when the occasion calls for it.The less said about the rest of the film, the better. I wouldn't want to spoil it for you. Let's just say that things go wrong, young love blooms, and it's not bad to have a vampire on your side.
I liked the quiet horror of this movie. This is no "show me the entrails!" gorefest, but it's certainly scary at times. I have a feeling the upcoming U. S. remake will be a lot bloodier, louder, and faster. And less effective. I'd say see this version instead. It's not a standard vampire movie in any sense, more of a coming-of-age story, and well worth the time.
Here's a problem, though. Should a vampire's breath condense in the cold air? Do vampires even breathe? Much is made about how cold she is, how she goes out into the freezing snow without shoes or jacket. The condensing breath just seemed wrong to me. But what do I know?
10 Recent Scientifically Solved Mysteries
10 Recent Scientifically Solved Mysteries - Listverse: "Since the beginning of modern science we have been solving the great mysteries around us. Because of recent advances in science and technology we now have the ability to unravel some unknowns like never before."
Monday, April 06, 2009
Bud Shank, R. I. P.
Alto Saxophonist Bud Shank Dies at 82 - Spinner.com: "Clifford 'Bud' Shank, an alto saxophonist, arranger and flutist who performed on the Mamas and the Papas hit 'California Dreamin',' died last Thursday from pulmonary failure at his Tucson home. He was 82.
Raised in Ohio, Shank began playing clarinet at age 10 before switching to saxophone two years later. He briefly attended the University of North Carolina in the late '40s, before dropping out to pursue a career in music. He was a member of big bands led by Charlie Barnet and Alvino Rey before joining pianist Stan Kenton's influential Innovations in Modern Music Orchestra -- a big band that featured strings and French horns."
Thanks to Todd Mason for the link.
Raised in Ohio, Shank began playing clarinet at age 10 before switching to saxophone two years later. He briefly attended the University of North Carolina in the late '40s, before dropping out to pursue a career in music. He was a member of big bands led by Charlie Barnet and Alvino Rey before joining pianist Stan Kenton's influential Innovations in Modern Music Orchestra -- a big band that featured strings and French horns."
Thanks to Todd Mason for the link.
I'm Gonna Be in Trouble
A.P. Moving to Halt Use of Articles on Web Sites - NYTimes.com: "The Associated Press and its member newspapers will take legal action against Web sites that use newspaper articles without legal permission, the group said on Monday, in a clear shot at aggregators like Google.
In a speech at The A.P.’s annual meeting in San Diego, William Dean Singleton, chairman of the group, said, “We can no longer stand by and watch others walk off with our work under misguided legal theories.”"
In a speech at The A.P.’s annual meeting in San Diego, William Dean Singleton, chairman of the group, said, “We can no longer stand by and watch others walk off with our work under misguided legal theories.”"
I'm Glad I Don't Wear Jewelry
Majikthise : Weird crafts: Dismembered Barbie jewelry and Katamari-enhanced thrift store art: "Margaux Lange is an art jeweler in Brooklyn, New York who specializes in ornaments fashioned from dismembered Barbie Dolls. The aesthetics and craftsmanship of her work are really impressive.
Hat tip to Steve Stilwell.
And You Thought Your Kid Had Long Hair
Daily Express | Odd News :: How to stay healthy... don't cut your hair: "A doctor claims his patients remain healthy because he does not cut his hair.
The medic, 79, made the link between healing patients and not trimming his locks more than 60 years ago.
[. . . .]
The hirsute healer now has to carry his eight-pound mane rolled up in a bag on his back, according to the Austrian Times. It stretched nearly nine feet the last time he measured."
The medic, 79, made the link between healing patients and not trimming his locks more than 60 years ago.
[. . . .]
The hirsute healer now has to carry his eight-pound mane rolled up in a bag on his back, according to the Austrian Times. It stretched nearly nine feet the last time he measured."
The Real Schindler's List
BBC NEWS | Asia-Pacific | Schindler's List found in Sydney: "A list compiled by the German industrialist Oskar Schindler has been discovered by a researcher at a library in Australia.
Schindler's list helped hundreds of Jewish workers escape death in the Holocaust during World War II.
It was found in research notes which belonged to the Australian author of Schindler's Ark - the basis for the Oscar-winning film, Schindler's List.
The document was found at the New South Wales Library in Sydney.
There are 13 pages of fragile, yellowing paper, upon which are typed the names and nationalities of 801 Jewish people."
Schindler's list helped hundreds of Jewish workers escape death in the Holocaust during World War II.
It was found in research notes which belonged to the Australian author of Schindler's Ark - the basis for the Oscar-winning film, Schindler's List.
The document was found at the New South Wales Library in Sydney.
There are 13 pages of fragile, yellowing paper, upon which are typed the names and nationalities of 801 Jewish people."
Dan Brown's Next Novel?
Knights Templar hid the Shroud of Turin, says Vatican -Times Online: "Medieval knights hid and secretly venerated The Holy Shroud of Turin for more than 100 years after the Crusades, the Vatican said yesterday in an announcement that appeared to solve the mystery of the relic’s missing years.
The Knights Templar, an order which was suppressed and disbanded for alleged heresy, took care of the linen cloth, which bears the image of a man with a beard, long hair and the wounds of crucifixion, according to Vatican researchers."
The Knights Templar, an order which was suppressed and disbanded for alleged heresy, took care of the linen cloth, which bears the image of a man with a beard, long hair and the wounds of crucifixion, according to Vatican researchers."
Croc Update (The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency Edition)
Those of you who watched last night's episode of The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency no doubt noticed the important role played by the crocodile. Sadly, the scene wasn't very realistic. You can kill a croc with one shot from a rifle, maybe, but the croc isn't going to lie still and quiet immediately afterward. No matter how good a shot you are, there's going to be a certain amount of thrashing about. But that's okay. Any show with a croc is okay in my book.
Aaron Allston Update
I just read on Martha Wells' blog that Aaron Allston had multiple by-pass surgery. Aaron's probably best known for his Star Wars novels, but I also liked his two books about Doc Sidhe. I've talked to Aaron at various conventions over the years. He's a great guy, and I wish him a speedy recovery.
May 1, 2009
It's "International Buy Indie Day."
Here's now you can be a part of it. On May 1, 2009, buy a book -- any book, paperback, hardcover, audiobook -- at an independent bookstore. You can also Join the 'Buy Indie' Facebook group for more info and a list of local activities in your area. To find a list of local independent bookstore in your area, just visit www.indiebound.org.
Here's now you can be a part of it. On May 1, 2009, buy a book -- any book, paperback, hardcover, audiobook -- at an independent bookstore. You can also Join the 'Buy Indie' Facebook group for more info and a list of local activities in your area. To find a list of local independent bookstore in your area, just visit www.indiebound.org.
From Beyond the Grave
2 Michael Crichton Novels to Be Published Posthumously by HarperCollins - NYTimes.com: "Michael Crichton, the best-selling author of technological thrillers like “The Andromeda Strain” and “Jurassic Park” who died of cancer in November, left behind at least one finished novel and about one-third of a second. Both will be released over the next year and a half, his publisher said.
HarperCollins, Mr. Crichton’s publisher for his previous three books, will release “Pirate Latitudes,” an adventure story set in Jamaica in the 17th century, on Nov. 24. The company also plans to publish a technological thriller in the fall of 2010, a novel that Mr. Crichton was working on when he died."
Hat tip to Jeff Meyerson.
HarperCollins, Mr. Crichton’s publisher for his previous three books, will release “Pirate Latitudes,” an adventure story set in Jamaica in the 17th century, on Nov. 24. The company also plans to publish a technological thriller in the fall of 2010, a novel that Mr. Crichton was working on when he died."
Hat tip to Jeff Meyerson.
Unclog the System
Revealed: why we need a good night's sleep -
Science, News - The Independent: "To sleep, perchance to dream, said Hamlet. Now scientists have shown that sleep is more about getting rid of the previous day's mental rubbish than it is about dreaming.
A study into slumber has found that the nerve connections built up in the brain during a busy day are pruned back during the night in an attempt to keep the mind from overloading on junk information.
The findings lend support to the idea that a good night's sleep is essential for consolidating important memories of the previous day and getting rid of things that would otherwise clog up the system."
Science, News - The Independent: "To sleep, perchance to dream, said Hamlet. Now scientists have shown that sleep is more about getting rid of the previous day's mental rubbish than it is about dreaming.
A study into slumber has found that the nerve connections built up in the brain during a busy day are pruned back during the night in an attempt to keep the mind from overloading on junk information.
The findings lend support to the idea that a good night's sleep is essential for consolidating important memories of the previous day and getting rid of things that would otherwise clog up the system."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Judge's 100 drug cases to be reviewed | AP Texas News | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "The El Paso County district attorney is promising reviews of about 100 drug cases presided over by a newly elected state judge now under federal indictment.
A federal grand jury in El Paso indicted State District Judge Manuel Barraza on Wednesday on four counts, including mail fraud, wire fraud and lying to a federal agent.
The 10-page indictment alleges the 53-year-old judge took cash bribes and asked for sex from defendants, including an undercover FBI agent, in exchange for his help in felony cases."
A federal grand jury in El Paso indicted State District Judge Manuel Barraza on Wednesday on four counts, including mail fraud, wire fraud and lying to a federal agent.
The 10-page indictment alleges the 53-year-old judge took cash bribes and asked for sex from defendants, including an undercover FBI agent, in exchange for his help in felony cases."
Sunday, April 05, 2009
No Comment Department
3 News > Entertainment > Story > Star Trek boldly going where it hasn't before: "Porn magazine Hustler is about to go beyond the final frontier by turning Star Trek into an X-rated movie.
The film, starring Evan Stone and Tony DeSergio - as Captain Kirk and Mr Spock respectively - is set to go before the cameras next month."
The film, starring Evan Stone and Tony DeSergio - as Captain Kirk and Mr Spock respectively - is set to go before the cameras next month."
Slammer -- Al Guthrie
We've had noir, and now we we have neo-noir, so there must have been proto-noir, right? Some people would argue for Oedipus Rex as the best proto-noir, but I like Medea, myself. The ultimate femme fatale and the ultimate slow-witted guy who falls for her, with disastrous consequences.But to get to a little more recent example, let's look at Hawthorne's "Young Goodman Brown." We get one of the bleaker endings in fiction, but along with it we get something more. An unreliable narrator. At the end of the story, we don't know what really happened. Was Faith faithful? Is everybody hiding a secret sin? Did YGB see and hear what he thinks he saw and heard, or did he just dream it all?
Which brings me, in my usual roundabout way, to Allan Guthrie's latest, Slammer. Nick Glass is a prison guard, and the whole story's told from his point of view. Nick's no hero, just a guy trying to make it in his low-end job. (I've known any number of prison guards, and I even have something to say on the subject. Too bad I didn't write a book.) Glass is not unlike YGB, who goes out to meet the Devil in a forest. When the man YGB meets says they've gone only a little way into the forest, YGB says, "Too far. Too far." Or something like that. I'm going by memory here. Anyway, Nick is persuaded to do a favor for one of the tougher prisoners. Like YGB, he thinks he can go only a little way and then turn back. Or at least save himself. Fat chance.
So one thing leads to another, and then . . . . And then Guthrie pulls the rug out, though he's set it up earlier. I've said enough about that, I think. You can find out the rest for yourself.
This book's not as violent as some of Guthrie's earlier work, but it's plenty violent. The prose is pared down so there's very little description of the prison or anything else. There are no characters you're going to like or identify with, but you can empathize, which is what matters. This is potent stuff that stretches the boundaries of crime fiction. Check it out.
Froggie
Okay, admit it, you've been wondering about Froggie. Well, he seems to be doing fine. He first poked his head out of the water spout on the hanging basket last June 18. I thought he'd be gone the next day, but I was wrong. He didn't show himself much at all this winter. For all I know, he was hibernating. He's been out and looking around quite a bit lately, though, and he appears to be pretty healthy. Maybe he'll stick around a while longer.
Smokey and the Serial Killers
FBI database links long-haul truckers, serial killings - Los Angeles Times: "The FBI suspects that serial killers working as long-haul truckers are responsible for the slayings of hundreds of prostitutes, hitchhikers and stranded motorists whose bodies have been dumped near highways over the last three decades.
Federal authorities first made the connection about five years ago while helping police link a trucker to a string of unsolved killings along Interstate 40 in Oklahoma and several other states. After that, the FBI launched the Highway Serial Killings Initiative to track suspicious slayings and suspect truckers."
Federal authorities first made the connection about five years ago while helping police link a trucker to a string of unsolved killings along Interstate 40 in Oklahoma and several other states. After that, the FBI launched the Highway Serial Killings Initiative to track suspicious slayings and suspect truckers."
Saturday, April 04, 2009
He Wanted to See the State that Leads the Way
Va. boy drove 1,300 miles to Texas rodeo grounds: "A 13-year-old Virginia boy apparently loaded his family's pickup truck with food, clothes and his dog, hitched up a trailer with two horses in tow and drove nearly 1,300 miles to Texas, police said. The teen's parents found him safe Friday.
Police are unsure why the boy ran away Wednesday morning from his Jetersville-area home. He apparently was well-prepared, even bringing extra propane tanks along."
Police are unsure why the boy ran away Wednesday morning from his Jetersville-area home. He apparently was well-prepared, even bringing extra propane tanks along."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Ark. funeral wake turns into brawl over beer - FOX16.com: "MAGNOLIA, Ark. (AP) - Sheriff's deputies say a Texas woman started a brawl at a wake in Arkansas when she arrived with a beer can in her hand.
Anna Sindelar, 52, of Splendora, Texas, faces a third-degree domestic battery charges, as does Cynthia J. Hall, 46, of Magnolia, over the fight March 29. Deputies say Sindelar arrived at the Christies Chapel Church with a beer can in hand and that she refused to leave."
Anna Sindelar, 52, of Splendora, Texas, faces a third-degree domestic battery charges, as does Cynthia J. Hall, 46, of Magnolia, over the fight March 29. Deputies say Sindelar arrived at the Christies Chapel Church with a beer can in hand and that she refused to leave."
Croc Update (Milwaukee Edition)
Milwaukee officials confiscate crocodile, snakes -- chicagotribune.com: "MILWAUKEE - Milwaukee officials are monitoring a crocodile and stash of exotic snakes that authorities confiscated from a local home.
The animals include a five-foot Nile crocodile, a 14-foot reticulated python and four snapping turtles."
The animals include a five-foot Nile crocodile, a 14-foot reticulated python and four snapping turtles."
You Say Your Kid Seems Jet-Propelled?
CDC: Rocket fuel chemical found in baby formula: "ATLANTA – Traces of a chemical used in rocket fuel were found in samples of powdered baby formula, and could exceed what's considered a safe dose for adults if mixed with water also contaminated with the ingredient, a government study has found."
Friday, April 03, 2009
Mike Ripley's Latest Column Now On-Line
Shots Ezine: Getting Away With Murder, The Mike Ripley Column - Get The Latest Trade News and Gossip from the Crime, Mystery and Thriller genres
Among other things, Mike has discovered Jonathan Latimer.
Stephen King Update
Stephen King completes epic novel after 25 years |
Books |
guardian.co.uk: "It's been incubating for 25 years but Stephen King is finally ready to show the world the 1,000-plus page epic he first attempted writing in the 1980s. Under the Dome, in which an invisible force field seals off a Maine town from the world, is due to be published this November, his publishers have said.
Weighing in at a whopping 1,120 pages, Under the Dome is a return for the bestselling author to the arm-breaking heft of his classic novels The Stand and It. King told an audience at the Library of Congress in Washington DC last year that he'd first had the idea for the book 25 years ago, and made a stab at writing it. 'I tried this once before when I was a lot younger, but the project was just too big for me and I let it go, I let it slide,' he said. 'But it was a terrific idea and it never entirely left my mind. It just kinda stayed there and hung out, and every now and then it would say write me, and eventually I did.'"
Books |
guardian.co.uk: "It's been incubating for 25 years but Stephen King is finally ready to show the world the 1,000-plus page epic he first attempted writing in the 1980s. Under the Dome, in which an invisible force field seals off a Maine town from the world, is due to be published this November, his publishers have said.
Weighing in at a whopping 1,120 pages, Under the Dome is a return for the bestselling author to the arm-breaking heft of his classic novels The Stand and It. King told an audience at the Library of Congress in Washington DC last year that he'd first had the idea for the book 25 years ago, and made a stab at writing it. 'I tried this once before when I was a lot younger, but the project was just too big for me and I let it go, I let it slide,' he said. 'But it was a terrific idea and it never entirely left my mind. It just kinda stayed there and hung out, and every now and then it would say write me, and eventually I did.'"
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
About 15 miles from Alvin.
Police in Texas City said a construction crew found a live World War II-era hand grenade in the attic of a home Thursday.
Police say an FBI bomb technician was called and the grenade was detonated at a shooting range with no injuries."
20 All-Time Coolest Heroes in Pop Culture?
Alias, Jennifer Garner | 20 All-Time Coolest Heroes in Pop Culture | Photos | EW.com: "Along with their villainous counterparts, the good guys are the undisputed kings and queens of our favorite entertainments. Here, we rank the best of the good; then, click through for the elite of evil."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
DWI suspect's Ferarri totaled after getting stuck on railroad track | Latest News | WFAA.com: "'I'm scared, I'm lost, I'm stranded out on a railroad track,' Sabold told a 911 operator.
'I took a wrong turn somewhere, I'm so lost.'
Sabold told the operator he saw a train coming and the operator told him to get out of the car. He did shortly before the train slammed into his car, totaling it."
Hat tip to Jeff Meyerson.
'I took a wrong turn somewhere, I'm so lost.'
Sabold told the operator he saw a train coming and the operator told him to get out of the car. He did shortly before the train slammed into his car, totaling it."
Hat tip to Jeff Meyerson.
Duuuuude!
Marijuana ingredient may reduce tumours-study | Antiwar Newswire: "LONDON, April 1 (Reuters) - The active ingredient in marijuana appears to reduce tumour growth, according to a Spanish study published on Wednesday.
The researchers showed giving THC to mice with cancer decreased tumour growth and killed cells off in a process called autophagy."
The researchers showed giving THC to mice with cancer decreased tumour growth and killed cells off in a process called autophagy."
Gator Update (Moonlighting Edition)
Drought is big business for alligator trappers: "SEFFNER - Julie Harter is pulling double duty these days. She’s a school teacher by day and the rest of the time she’s the only female in the state trapping cold blooded, carnivorous alligators.
“The alligator job is the safer job,” said Harter."
“The alligator job is the safer job,” said Harter."
Forgotten Books: A WINTER SPY -- MacDonald Lloyd
Okay, I'll admit it. I'm cheating on this one. Someone's already written about it. What's that you say? You've read every single Forgotten Book blog post, and you don't remember this one? Well, before you go on, click here. Read the post (with which I wholeheartedly agree), and come on back. I'll wait for you.Back so soon? You didn't cheat, did you? If you didn't, you might be scratching your head and thinking I made a mistake. After all, the link takes you to a review of Isle of Joy by Don Winslow, published in England in 1996 by Arrow books, whereas the photo on my blog is of A Winter Spy by MacDonald Lloyd. It was published in the U. S. by Signet Books in 1997.
And it's the same book as Isle of Joy, though there's no mention of that title anywhere on the cover or copyright page, just as there's no mention of any previous publication. The copyright page does mention Don Winslow, but this book's not included in the bibliography on his website (Isle of Joy is). I don't know what the deal is, but I thought it was interesting. Maybe you don't, but, after all, it's my blog. Also, it's my excuse for talking about the book. It's the same one, all right, but then again, it's got a different title and author's name. It's also a lot easier to find and a lot cheaper to buy than Isle of Joy.
Winslow is one of my current favorites, and this book is extremely good. It's a Cold War spy novel, set between Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, 1958, back in the days before the world changed. Walter Withers has left the C.I.A. and joined a big private investigations firm. He's asked to bodyguard Madeleine Keneally, the wife of presidential candidate Joe Keneally. You can read the Kennedys into this easily enough. There's no question about who the characters "really" are, and plenty of other familair folks appear. Some of them even go by their own names. J. Edgar Hoover comes to mind, along with Carroll Rosenbloom. (Winslow's description of the NFL Championship Game of 1958 between the Colts and the Giants is both entertaining and highly cynical.)
Winslow takes his time in this book, introducing the characters, setting up the situation, and describing New York City. (The book is a love story in more ways than one. But one of them is about Walter Withers' love for the city. Anybody who lived in New York around 1959 should really like this novel.) By the second half of the book, everything comes together in a series of dazzling single, double, and triple crosses. Winslow has so many balls in the air that you wonder how he'll ever manage them, but he does, with the help of a bit of coincidence here and there. Mostly, though, we learn that, as Freud said, there are no accidents. Everything was planned from the start, or at least set in motion.
One thing I particularly liked was Withers' occasional reading to the very ill wife of one of his colleagues. The book Withers chooses is One Lonely Night, which is an entirely different sort of Cold War novel, the antithesis of A Winter Spy, and I love this comment: ". . . the G-men . . .had little to do until Mickey Spillane alerted them to the communist menace and Hoover started to do his Michael Palmer impersonation and saw Red spies everywhere." This is the first time I've seen Spillane blamed for the Red Scare, and of course Winslow's kidding. At least a little bit.
Why didn't this book sell a ton? I have no idea. Great writing, wonderful characters, loving recreation of a time and a place, a love story, a spy thriller, and more. What do people want, anyway? I know, I know. They want James Patterson, but they're missing a heck of a great read.
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
GP AirHogs to host 'Octomom Night' | Latest News | WFAA.com: "GRAND PRAIRIE -- Games like 'Guess How Many Buns Are in My EZ Bake Oven' will be among the featured events when minor-league baseball's Grand Prairie AirHogs host 'Octomom Night.'
In honor of the Suleman octuplets in California, the independent league club said Wednesday it will also have a Diaper Derby and a stroller race the night of the June 13 game.
Groups of eight or more will be offered half-price admission and if the AirHogs score eight or more runs during the game, every fan will get a ticket to another game."
Hat tip to Jeff Meyerson.
In honor of the Suleman octuplets in California, the independent league club said Wednesday it will also have a Diaper Derby and a stroller race the night of the June 13 game.
Groups of eight or more will be offered half-price admission and if the AirHogs score eight or more runs during the game, every fan will get a ticket to another game."
Hat tip to Jeff Meyerson.
Seepy Benton
Some of you might have read my books. In many of the recent ones, there's a character named Seepy Benton. Well, he's written a book of his own. You can buy your copy here.
Robocroc, R. I. P.
Miami Metrozoo's Robocroc dead: American Crocodile that received metal plates and screws during reconstructive surgery has died at Miami Metrozoo -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel.com: "MIAMI-DADE COUNTY - An American crocodile that underwent so much reconstructive surgery with metal plates and screws that he was dubbed 'Robocroc' has died, according to NBC 6.
State wildlife officers found the severely injured, 10-foot long, male crocodile along a roadside in the Keys in December. The animal was brought to Miami Metrozoo where spokesman Ron Magill described the front part of his skull as 'shattered.'
During an extensive surgery on March 17, veterinarians used 4 metal plates, 41 screws and other materials to rebuild the reptile's skull."
State wildlife officers found the severely injured, 10-foot long, male crocodile along a roadside in the Keys in December. The animal was brought to Miami Metrozoo where spokesman Ron Magill described the front part of his skull as 'shattered.'
During an extensive surgery on March 17, veterinarians used 4 metal plates, 41 screws and other materials to rebuild the reptile's skull."
All Righty, Then
To urban hunter, next meal is scampering by | detnews.com | The Detroit News: "Detroit - When selecting the best raccoon carcass for the special holiday roast, both the connoisseur and the curious should remember this simple guideline: Look for the paw.
'The paw is old school,' says Glemie Dean Beasley, a Detroit raccoon hunter and meat salesman. 'It lets the customers know it's not a cat or dog.'
Beasley, a 69-year-old retired truck driver who modestly refers to himself as the Coon Man, supplements his Social Security check with the sale of raccoon carcasses that go for as much $12 and can serve up to four. The pelts, too, are good for coats and hats and fetch up to $10 a hide."
'The paw is old school,' says Glemie Dean Beasley, a Detroit raccoon hunter and meat salesman. 'It lets the customers know it's not a cat or dog.'
Beasley, a 69-year-old retired truck driver who modestly refers to himself as the Coon Man, supplements his Social Security check with the sale of raccoon carcasses that go for as much $12 and can serve up to four. The pelts, too, are good for coats and hats and fetch up to $10 a hide."
April Is the Cruelest Month
Got caught in the rain while out on the run. Soaked. Rain followed immediately by icy blast of norther that was (according to last night's "AccuWeather Forecast") supposed to arrive this afternoon. Froze. Later today: dental appointment. It's gonna be one of those days. It already is one of those days.
Pass the Carrots
Too much red meat could leave you blind, scientists warn | Mail Online: "Eating too much red meat can raise the risk of going blind by half, research has shown.
Those who tuck into beef, lamb or pork at least ten times a week are nearly 50 per cent more likely to develop the leading cause of blindness than those who eat red meat fewer than five times a week, a study revealed."
Those who tuck into beef, lamb or pork at least ten times a week are nearly 50 per cent more likely to develop the leading cause of blindness than those who eat red meat fewer than five times a week, a study revealed."
Bill Cosby Update
Bill Cosby Will Receive the Kennedy Center's Mark Twain Prize for American Humor - washingtonpost.com: "Bill Cosby, the enduringly familiar funnyman, has been selected to receive this year's Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, the Kennedy Center announced yesterday.
Cosby, 71, has been in showbiz for 50 years, with hit stand-up recordings, sitcoms, Saturday-morning cartoons and best-selling books to his credit. His wide-ranging television work includes 'The Electric Company' to 'I Spy' to 'Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids' to 'The Cosby Show.'"
Cosby, 71, has been in showbiz for 50 years, with hit stand-up recordings, sitcoms, Saturday-morning cartoons and best-selling books to his credit. His wide-ranging television work includes 'The Electric Company' to 'I Spy' to 'Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids' to 'The Cosby Show.'"
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Turn off the Lights, . .
. . . the party's over.
CBS Turning Off ‘Guiding Light’ - ArtsBeat Blog - NYTimes.com: "CBS announced Wednesday the cancellation of the longest-running scripted program in broadcasting history, the soap opera “Guiding Light.”
It has been on radio and then television for 72 years, beginning on NBC radio in 1937 and moving to CBS television in 1952. The last broadcast is scheduled for Sept. 18."
CBS Turning Off ‘Guiding Light’ - ArtsBeat Blog - NYTimes.com: "CBS announced Wednesday the cancellation of the longest-running scripted program in broadcasting history, the soap opera “Guiding Light.”
It has been on radio and then television for 72 years, beginning on NBC radio in 1937 and moving to CBS television in 1952. The last broadcast is scheduled for Sept. 18."
That Settles It -- I'm Writing a Joke Book
Funny men laugh ladies into bed because they're seen as 'more intelligent' | Mail Online: "Having trouble impressing the ladies? Try telling them a joke or two.
A sense of humour makes men seem more intelligent, trustworthy - and a better bet for a relationship, a study found."
A sense of humour makes men seem more intelligent, trustworthy - and a better bet for a relationship, a study found."
40 Years Ago Today
Looking through some old photos, found this one from April 1, 1969. Angela wasn't easy to pose in those days.
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Texas on front line in U.S. battle against border gun trade | Houston & Texas News | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "Texas, particularly Houston, is a central hub for purchasing guns that get smuggled into Mexico and end up in the hands of drug cartels."
Video of the Day
It's from Qualcomm. You just can't go wrong with Crocodeagles. (I think George Kelley owns Qualcomm.)Link and photo via YesButNoButYes.
An April Fool?
My grandfather, Cox Brodnax, was born on April Fool's Day. (He died on a Friday 13th.) He was nobody's fool, but he was quite a character. I think of him often, but especially on April 1. This photo of him was made in 1939. That's my grandmother in the background.
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Austin ER's got 2,678 visits from 9 people over 6 years: "n the past six years, eight people from Austin and one from Luling racked up 2,678 emergency room visits in Central Texas, costing hospitals, taxpayers and others $3 million, according to a report from a nonprofit made up of hospitals and other providers that care for the uninsured and low-income Central Texans.
One of the nine spent more than a third of last year in the ER: 145 days. That same patient totaled 554 ER visits from 2003 through 2008."
One of the nine spent more than a third of last year in the ER: 145 days. That same patient totaled 554 ER visits from 2003 through 2008."
Short Mystery Fiction Society Announces Derringer Award Finalists
The finalists for the 2009 Derringer Awards are:
BEST FLASH STORY (Up to 1,000 Words)
Black Pearls by James C. Clar
Incident in Itawamba by Gary Hoffman
No Flowers for Stacy by Ruth McCarty
No Place Like Home by Dee Stuart
This Bird has Flown by BV Lawson
BEST SHORT STORY (1,001-4,000 Words)
Independence Day by Allan Leverone
Regrets, I’ve Had a Few by Allan Leverone
Stalkers* by Lew Stowe
Taste for It by Sophie Littlefield
The Cost of Doing Business by Mike Penncavage
Wishing on Whores* by John Weagly
*tie score in the judging
BEST LONG STORY (4,001-8,000 Words)
Bonnie and Clyde Caper by O’Neil De Noux
Dead Even by Frank Zafiro
The Art of Avarice by Darrell James
The Big Score by Chris Holm
The Quick Brown Fox by Robert S. Levinson
BEST NOVELETTE (8,000-17,500 Words)
Haven’t Seen You Since the Funeral by Ernest B. Brown
Jack Best and the Line in the Sand by Steve Olley
Panic on Portage Path by Dick Stodghill
Too Wise by O’Neil De Noux
Vegetable Matters by Terry W. Ervin II
BEST FLASH STORY (Up to 1,000 Words)
Black Pearls by James C. Clar
Incident in Itawamba by Gary Hoffman
No Flowers for Stacy by Ruth McCarty
No Place Like Home by Dee Stuart
This Bird has Flown by BV Lawson
BEST SHORT STORY (1,001-4,000 Words)
Independence Day by Allan Leverone
Regrets, I’ve Had a Few by Allan Leverone
Stalkers* by Lew Stowe
Taste for It by Sophie Littlefield
The Cost of Doing Business by Mike Penncavage
Wishing on Whores* by John Weagly
*tie score in the judging
BEST LONG STORY (4,001-8,000 Words)
Bonnie and Clyde Caper by O’Neil De Noux
Dead Even by Frank Zafiro
The Art of Avarice by Darrell James
The Big Score by Chris Holm
The Quick Brown Fox by Robert S. Levinson
BEST NOVELETTE (8,000-17,500 Words)
Haven’t Seen You Since the Funeral by Ernest B. Brown
Jack Best and the Line in the Sand by Steve Olley
Panic on Portage Path by Dick Stodghill
Too Wise by O’Neil De Noux
Vegetable Matters by Terry W. Ervin II
As If You Needed Another Excuse
Could going to the gym be making you fatter? | Mail Online: "The awful truth for every would-be slimmer is that going to the gym is unlikely to make you thin. It may even have the opposite effect: it could actually make you fatter. This will have personal trainers chewing their smelly insoles in fury, but there is sound science behind the theory that gym-going could actually impede weight loss."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Jalopnik - Dallas Mercedes Driver Parks In Wet Concrete - Mercedes In Concrete: "Houstonians view people from Dallas, Texas as rich, class-obsessed morons. This photo of a Dallas citizen who decided to ignore the bright orange warning cones and park in freshly-poured concrete only confirms this theory."
Photo at link; hat tip to Jeff Meyerson.
Photo at link; hat tip to Jeff Meyerson.
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