Find me a Valentine and make it snappy - Cambridge News: "LOVE is in the air at Europe's only crocodile farm - but when Romeo goes wooing his intended partners Cuddles and Kisses he is more likely to be taking a dead quail with him than a bunch of roses.
If Romeo plays his cards right this year's Valentine's Day could see the eventual birth of the first crocodiles at Church Farm, Old Hurst, setting farmer Andy Johnson on the way to crocodile meat production."
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
KXAN.com - News, Weather, Sports - Austin, TX | City Of Austin Gives Away Free Toilets: "The City of Austin is giving away free low-flow toilets. The reason is that more than 60,000 homes and condos have toilets that are wasting water.
'The commodes typically use more water in the home than any other fixture or appliance,' said Mark Wieland with the City of Austin Water Conservation.
The City of Austin wants residents to change to low-flow commodes, because water treatment facilities are near capacity for treating the water you flush."
'The commodes typically use more water in the home than any other fixture or appliance,' said Mark Wieland with the City of Austin Water Conservation.
The City of Austin wants residents to change to low-flow commodes, because water treatment facilities are near capacity for treating the water you flush."
The Best Sandwiches in America
The Best Sandwiches in America - Esquire: "Unranked, unimpeachable, and incomplete, Esquire’s coast-to-coast list of the finest meals on sliced bread. No burgers allowed."
Croc Update (Penis Edition)
A Tyrannical Romance - The Wild Side - Olivia Judson - Evolution - Opinion - New York Times Blog: "Male crocodiles have a penis — just one — which, most of the time, they keep tucked inside their cloacae. (In most species of crocodile, it’s hard to determine the sex of living animals without an intimate exam, never mind dead ones.) Compared with the mammalian penis, the crocodile’s has an oddity: sperm is transported along an external groove, rather than through an internal tube."
But did T. Rex have one? Nobody knows for sure. You'll have to read the article.
But did T. Rex have one? Nobody knows for sure. You'll have to read the article.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Will the Persecution Never End?
Now they're after her little brother.
Paris Hilton's Little Brother Arrested for DUI - Crime & Courts, Content Item : People.com: "Like sister, like brother? Paris Hilton's 18-year-old younger brother, Barron Hilton, was arrested Tuesday morning on charges of driving under the influence and carrying a fake driver's license, authorities confirm."
Paris Hilton's Little Brother Arrested for DUI - Crime & Courts, Content Item : People.com: "Like sister, like brother? Paris Hilton's 18-year-old younger brother, Barron Hilton, was arrested Tuesday morning on charges of driving under the influence and carrying a fake driver's license, authorities confirm."
Star Wars Update
Blockbuster Buzz - Times Online - WBLG: Star Wars returns to the cinemas: "Depending on your level of geekiness you describe either Revenge of the Sith or Return of the Jedi as the ‘last’ Star Wars movie. Now it looks as if there will be another possibility to further confuse matters. The official Star Wars website has confirmed the recent rumours bubbling throughout the web that Lucasfilm will be releasing their new, all-CGI, ‘Clone Wars’ feature in cinemas before transferring to television for a weekly series. It's thought that Lucas also still intends to continue with the live-action Star Wars TV series that was widely reported in 2007."
Winter Issue of Demolition Now On-Line
The winter issue of Demolition magazine is now ready for reading. As always, some fine stories. Check it out.
Pulp Writer -- Paul S. Powers
Paul Powers wrote this memoir around 1943, though it's just now being published. His granddaughter, Laurie Powers, found the manuscript among his papers as she was searching through her own past to discover something about her family and herself. She provides the introduction and conclusion of the volume.The first part of the book is Laurie Powers' own detective story, and it's a pretty good one, though readers of this blog will probably be shocked at her lack of knowledge about the pulps. (If you're like me, you tend to think everybody knows about that kind of thing.) Her slightly condescending attitude toward them won't surprise anybody, though. The second part of her intro is a sort of history of the pulps. You know that stuff already.
The memoir is the reason for reading the book, of course. Powers started writing in high school, mainly two-line jokes that magazines and newspapers used for filler. He dropped out of high school to become a full-time writer, but it was several years until he became a regular in Wild West Weekly, writing under several names and creating a number of popular series characters for the magazine. Unlike a lot of pulpsters, Powers seems to have tied his career to that one magazine, which in retrospect seems like a mistake, though he did very well for many years.
There are no more pulps, but some of the things Powers talks about (writers' groups, vanity presses) might have been written yesterday. And to me, what he has to say about his writing about about his editors is quite interesting. He even reprints some of the letters his editor sent him, commenting on his stories.
Laurie Powers' chapter on "After the Pulps" lets us know a little of what happened to Powers after the pulp market collapsed. He wasn't able to make the transition to other markets, but he at least managed to stay around books.
Gator Update (Doggin' It Edition)
Alligator eats dog in middle of popular Tampa park - Tampa Bays Local News: "Tampa, Florida - A Bay area pet owner is in shock after her dog was eaten by an alligator in the middle of one of Tampa’s most popular parks. The attack happened near a walking trail at Al Lopez Park just north of Raymond James Stadium.
Sarah Frey says she and her Cairn Terrier were walking on a trail in the park around 9:30 a.m. Monday when she allowed her dog off its leash.
“I think he was hot, and he saw the water, and he took a big leap towards the water,” says Frey.
Suddenly others in the park started to scream, but before Sarah could get to the edge of the lake everything was over."
Sarah Frey says she and her Cairn Terrier were walking on a trail in the park around 9:30 a.m. Monday when she allowed her dog off its leash.
“I think he was hot, and he saw the water, and he took a big leap towards the water,” says Frey.
Suddenly others in the park started to scream, but before Sarah could get to the edge of the lake everything was over."
Monday, February 11, 2008
The Spiral Staircase
When people say "they don't make 'em like that anymore," this is the kind of movie they're talking about (the 1945 version, not the later ones). It has just about everything: A small town just after the turn of the 20th century. An old dark house. A dark and stormy night. A serial killer on the loose. Beautiful B&W photography, as atmospheric as you'll ever see. Spooky soundtrack. Eccentric characters. A cute dog. Plenty of suspense. Good performances all around. A heavy dose of Freud. And probably stuff I'm forgetting.Dorothy McGuire is the young woman who works in the old dark house for Ethel Barrymore, an invalid. McGuire's character can't speak because of a traumatic childhood experience, so that adds to the complications. Barrymore's two sons, Kent Smith and George Brent alternately menace and charm. Rhonda Fleming plays a secretary who practically has "Doomed" tattooed on her forehead.
I had some serious problems with the plot, but I still liked this a lot. As I've said before, I'm an old-fashioned guy, so you have to take my recommendations with that mind. In fact, I'm so old-fashioned that I'm listening to the top 30 songs of 1948 as I write this. Kay Kyser at the moment. Great stuff.
The Movie Will Have Explosions
Cezanne, Degas, Van Gogh And Monet Paintings Stolen In Zurich |Sky News|World News: "Paintings by some of the world's most famous artists have been stolen by an armed gang from a museum in Zurich.
Four oil paintings worth more than 80m Euros by Cezanne, Degas, van Gogh and Monet were taken in the weekend robbery from the E.G. Buehrle museum.
A police statement said the three robbers wearing ski masks and dark clothing entered the museum a half-an-hour before closing on Sunday."
Four oil paintings worth more than 80m Euros by Cezanne, Degas, van Gogh and Monet were taken in the weekend robbery from the E.G. Buehrle museum.
A police statement said the three robbers wearing ski masks and dark clothing entered the museum a half-an-hour before closing on Sunday."
Croc Update (Overeating Edition)
Crocs divert blood to avoid busting a gut (ABC Science Online): "Crocodiles and alligators eat so much in a single meal that they need to divert gas-rich blood away from their lungs into their stomachs to digest it, US research suggests.
The study, which was conducted in American alligators, shows they can eat 23% of their own mass at once."
The study, which was conducted in American alligators, shows they can eat 23% of their own mass at once."
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Roy Scheider, R. I. P.
The Associated Press: 'Jaws' Actor Scheider Dies at 75: "LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) — Roy Scheider, the actor best known for his role as a police chief in the blockbuster movie 'Jaws,' has died. He was 75.Scheider died Sunday at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences hospital in Little Rock, hospital spokesman David Robinson said. The hospital did not release his cause of death."
A lot of great roles. Fifty-Two Pick-Up, The Seven-Ups, Jaws, Marathon Man, and too many more to name.
Paris's Birthday Party
Photos at the link.
Frock horror! Paris celebrates her birthday as a punk princess | the Daily Mail: "Paris Hilton ditched her usual heiress style to celebrate her birthday as a punk princess.
Wearing a tiara, patterned multi-coloured tights and a mint green strapless mini-dress, the starlet, who turns 27 on February 17, was barely recognisable when she arrived at an LA club last night."
Frock horror! Paris celebrates her birthday as a punk princess | the Daily Mail: "Paris Hilton ditched her usual heiress style to celebrate her birthday as a punk princess.
Wearing a tiara, patterned multi-coloured tights and a mint green strapless mini-dress, the starlet, who turns 27 on February 17, was barely recognisable when she arrived at an LA club last night."
You Want Your MTV?
Here's a link to three hours of MTV from 1983, back when they had music videos. You also get all the cool commercials. The first video on the clip features Night Ranger. Remember them?
Hat tip to the Mike McGruff blog.
Hat tip to the Mike McGruff blog.
John Alvin, R. I. P.
John Alvin was one of the great movie poster artists. He passed away last week, but his work will be around for a long time.
Charley's Aunt
Four words: Jack Benny in drag. That will either sell you on this one or make you run in the opposite direction. The movie is based on a play that was old when the movie was made, but the play is still being revived. There must be something about men in drag that appeals to a lot of audiences.As for me, I thought this was pretty funny in places, not so much in others. One of the funny things is that Benny, who tries on a British accent for about two words of every ten in the first scene soon tries it for only about one word in a hundred. Some of the physical comedy works very well, too, and of course the idea that anyone would be fooled, even for a second, into thinking Benny is female is amusing. That Edmund Gwen, sprightly as ever, falls for him is also funny, if hard to believe.
Laird Cregar plays the father of James Ellison and remarks about what good shape he (Cregar) is in for a man of fifty. And no wonder. Cregar was about twenty-five at the time, several years older than his "son." Cregar's very good in the part, too. Then there's Kay Francis, who's lovely.
This is very old-fashioned stuff, but then I'm an Old Guy. I enjoyed it.
Gator Update (Babe Ruth Edition)
Rays: St. Pete's best spring training stories: "But two of the most famous stories had to do with an alligator and a president. In 1925, during the Yankees' first spring in St. Petersburg, Ruth bolted off the practice field near Crescent Lake. 'I ain't going out there anymore,' Ruth told manager Miller Huggins. 'There's an alligator.'"
Saturday, February 09, 2008
Phyllis A. Whitney, R. I. P.
Over on Mystery*File, Steve Lewis reports that Phyllis Whitney has died at the age of 104. She had a long and highly successful career.
Paris Is Undeterred
In hot pursuit of a Hottie interview | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "Paris said she was especially excited about her next flick, Repo! The Genetic Opera, a horror opera directed by Darren Lynn Bousman of Saw fame, due out this spring.
'It's basically about organ repossession in the year 2056,' Paris said. 'People's organs can fail, and you have to get an organ transplant. But if you can't pay for it, then a repo man will come and like rip it out of you.'
'It's like really scary. Creepy. Gory.'
Paris said her character uses plastic surgery to change her face every day. 'You'll never recognize me from scene to scene.'"
'It's basically about organ repossession in the year 2056,' Paris said. 'People's organs can fail, and you have to get an organ transplant. But if you can't pay for it, then a repo man will come and like rip it out of you.'
'It's like really scary. Creepy. Gory.'
Paris said her character uses plastic surgery to change her face every day. 'You'll never recognize me from scene to scene.'"
A Sad State of Affairs
Hat tip to Vince Keenan.
• Hollywood Elsewhere •: "The weekend's biggest disaster, however, is unquestionably Paris Hilton's The Hottie & The Nottie, Mason reports. It opened yesterday on 111 screens 'and managed only $76 in ticket sales per location. That means that approximately 10 people showed up and bought a ticket at each of those 111 theatres today. Hottie will sell only an anticipated $23,000 during the 3-day weekend for a $207 perscreen average. That's about 26 ticket buyers per location for Friday-Sunday.'"
• Hollywood Elsewhere •: "The weekend's biggest disaster, however, is unquestionably Paris Hilton's The Hottie & The Nottie, Mason reports. It opened yesterday on 111 screens 'and managed only $76 in ticket sales per location. That means that approximately 10 people showed up and bought a ticket at each of those 111 theatres today. Hottie will sell only an anticipated $23,000 during the 3-day weekend for a $207 perscreen average. That's about 26 ticket buyers per location for Friday-Sunday.'"
The Accidental Time Machine -- Joe Haldeman
I've enjoyed Joe Haldeman's work for many years. I even have a couple of his Attar the Merman books written under some pen name or other. So when a friend recommended this book, I picked it up.Matt Fuller is a grad student at MIT and kind of a loser. He's never going to finish his dissertation, which he realizes isn't much good, anyway. But then he accidentally discovers a time machine. It works only in one direction, and each time it leaves, it goes farther into the future. He tries it with a turtle, and then, when things go downhill for him, he goes himself. After that, he lands in a number of different futures, and in one of them he falls for Martha, who accompanies him on his next trip and gives him a chance to grow up a little. What Matt really wants to do is get back to his own time, but no society he lands in has the capability to send him there. At least not until he lands in a far-distant future.
I wouldn't want to spoil the fun by telling you what goes on, but I'll give you one thing: Matt has a troubling encounter with Jesus. There are more surprises along the way, too.
I saw this novel on the Locus list of recommended books, and Haldeman's effortless prose and satirical take on the various futures makes if fun to read.
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
The Herald-Zeitung: "The San Antonio area has been found to be in compliance with the Clean Air Act, becoming the only major metropolitan city in the country which can make that claim.
“I think it’s a monumental achievement for the San Antonio region,” said Pct. 2 Commissioner Jay Millikin, who also serves as chairman of the Air Improvement Resources Committee for the Alamo Area Council of Governments."
“I think it’s a monumental achievement for the San Antonio region,” said Pct. 2 Commissioner Jay Millikin, who also serves as chairman of the Air Improvement Resources Committee for the Alamo Area Council of Governments."
Croc Update (Eye Surgery Edition)
winnipegsun.com - Winnipeg News - Rare surgery saves croc eye: "You don't need to shed any crocodile tears for Dirk -- the little guy is on the mend.
Dirk the crocodile will soon see things much clearer thanks to veterinary surgeons who performed a rare eye operation this week at the Assiniboine Park Zoo.
Doctors removed an ulcer from the 14-year-old African dwarf crocodile's cornea and stitched the reptile's third eyelid shut to protect the affected area from harm during the healing process."
Dirk the crocodile will soon see things much clearer thanks to veterinary surgeons who performed a rare eye operation this week at the Assiniboine Park Zoo.
Doctors removed an ulcer from the 14-year-old African dwarf crocodile's cornea and stitched the reptile's third eyelid shut to protect the affected area from harm during the healing process."
James Reasoner Update
I'm moving this up as a reminder, and maybe some of you missed it earlier. If you want to send books or money to James, here's how.
Longtime Western writer and WWA member James Reasoner and wife Livia lost their house and studio, and all their belongings, in a fire earlier this week. They're OK, as are their dogs and children, but got out with only their clothes they were wearing. Books, pulps, comics, everything else, gone. "This is totally overwhelming," James says.
To help the family, Western Writers of America and Kensington Books have agreed to make sizable contributions and ask anyone who would also like to contribute to send cash donations to the WWA Executive Director's office in Albuquerque, N.M. Make the check out to Western Writers of America and put in the memo that the money is for the James Reasoner Emergency Fund.
Checks should be mailed to:
WWA
MSC06 3770
1 University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001
Since James and Livia also lost their sizable library, donations are also being sought to help restock their bookcases whenever they have a new home. Kim Lionetti, Livia's agent at BookEnds, has generously agreed to accept any BOOK donations and keep them until the Reasoners have a place to put them. Books should be sent to:
Kim Lionetti
BookEnds Inc.
136 Long Hill Road
Gillette, NJ 07933
Our thoughts and prayers are with James, Livia and family during this trying time. Thanks for your help.
Johnny D. Boggs
WWA Vice President
Longtime Western writer and WWA member James Reasoner and wife Livia lost their house and studio, and all their belongings, in a fire earlier this week. They're OK, as are their dogs and children, but got out with only their clothes they were wearing. Books, pulps, comics, everything else, gone. "This is totally overwhelming," James says.
To help the family, Western Writers of America and Kensington Books have agreed to make sizable contributions and ask anyone who would also like to contribute to send cash donations to the WWA Executive Director's office in Albuquerque, N.M. Make the check out to Western Writers of America and put in the memo that the money is for the James Reasoner Emergency Fund.
Checks should be mailed to:
WWA
MSC06 3770
1 University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001
Since James and Livia also lost their sizable library, donations are also being sought to help restock their bookcases whenever they have a new home. Kim Lionetti, Livia's agent at BookEnds, has generously agreed to accept any BOOK donations and keep them until the Reasoners have a place to put them. Books should be sent to:
Kim Lionetti
BookEnds Inc.
136 Long Hill Road
Gillette, NJ 07933
Our thoughts and prayers are with James, Livia and family during this trying time. Thanks for your help.
Johnny D. Boggs
WWA Vice President
Friday, February 08, 2008
Anna Nicole Smith Update
Anna Nicole Smith's death -- one year later -- chicagotribune.com: "HOLLYWOOD - It's was one year on Friday since Anna Nicole Smith was found unconscious in her room at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino near Hollywood.
The former Playboy centerfold later died the same day at a hospital. Her sudden death started a tabloid frenzy in a Broward County courtroom over her body and the paternity and custody of her infant daughter.
California officials and the Seminole Police Department continue to investigate the numerous prescriptions written for Smith by her doctors. An autopsy showed she died of an accidental overdose."
The former Playboy centerfold later died the same day at a hospital. Her sudden death started a tabloid frenzy in a Broward County courtroom over her body and the paternity and custody of her infant daughter.
California officials and the Seminole Police Department continue to investigate the numerous prescriptions written for Smith by her doctors. An autopsy showed she died of an accidental overdose."
Intentional Farting Update
Bangor Publishing Company: "The original newsletter article, published the week of Feb. 4, was erroneous, she said. 'I learned about it the day after, on Thursday.'
Libby said the headline, 'Farting is banned from CRMS?' was wrong.
'We didn’t ban anything,' she said."
Libby said the headline, 'Farting is banned from CRMS?' was wrong.
'We didn’t ban anything,' she said."
No Comment Department
Sheriff: Cross-dressing driver 'unsettling' | Portland Press Herald: "The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office is searching for a man who has a mustache and has been seen wearing women's underwear, a garter belt and black high-heel boots.
Since last spring, the sheriff's office has received six reports that a motorist wearing that outfit has pulled in front of female drivers, jumped out of his vehicle and modeled his attire in the roadway."
Since last spring, the sheriff's office has received six reports that a motorist wearing that outfit has pulled in front of female drivers, jumped out of his vehicle and modeled his attire in the roadway."
These are the People Who Keep Our Country Safe
U.S. military loses records for bin Laden's driver - Yahoo! News: "GANTANAMO BAY U.S. NAVAL BASE, Cuba (Reuters) - The U.S. military has lost a year's worth of records describing the Guantanamo confinement of Osama bin Laden's driver, a prosecutor said at the Yemeni captive's war court hearing on Thursday.
Lawyers for the driver, Salim Ahmed Hamdan, asked for the records to support their argument that prolonged isolation and harassment at the Guantanamo prison have mentally impaired him and could affect his ability to aid in his defense against war crimes charges.
'All known records have been produced with the exception of the 2002 Gitmo records,' one of the prosecutors, Navy Lt. Cmdr. Timothy Stone, told the court. 'They can't find it.'"
Lawyers for the driver, Salim Ahmed Hamdan, asked for the records to support their argument that prolonged isolation and harassment at the Guantanamo prison have mentally impaired him and could affect his ability to aid in his defense against war crimes charges.
'All known records have been produced with the exception of the 2002 Gitmo records,' one of the prosecutors, Navy Lt. Cmdr. Timothy Stone, told the court. 'They can't find it.'"
100 Best Movie Soundtracks?
The first movie soundtrack album I ever bought (in 1958) is on this list. The movie was based on a book by a writer I didn't know at the time but who became a huge favorite of mine only a few years later. The movie was The Big Country, and the writer was Donald Hamilton.
100 best movie soundtracks - Telegraph: "From 'A Fistful of Dollars' to 'Some Like it Hot', from Mozart and Wagner to Rodgers & Hammerstein... may we present cinema's greatest scores."
100 best movie soundtracks - Telegraph: "From 'A Fistful of Dollars' to 'Some Like it Hot', from Mozart and Wagner to Rodgers & Hammerstein... may we present cinema's greatest scores."
Gator Update (Fence Repair Edition)
Local News - Driver Slams Into Alligator Farm: "ST. AUGUSTINE, FL -- Crews at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm quickly worked to repair a fence after a driver on A1A slammed into it Thursday morning around 6:30.
'The first thing we did was make sure all the animals were in place,' Alligator Farm Director John Brueggen said.
The driver tore through the exterior fence on the north side of the park, knocking the large 'Alligator Farm' sign down."
'The first thing we did was make sure all the animals were in place,' Alligator Farm Director John Brueggen said.
The driver tore through the exterior fence on the north side of the park, knocking the large 'Alligator Farm' sign down."
Thursday, February 07, 2008
More Bad News
I've just heard from Lynn Meyers that the wife of Wayne Dundee, author of the Joe Hannibal series, passed away Sunday night. She was 58 years old. My sympathies to Wayne and the families.
Waco Doesn't Lead the Way
Mexia Daily News - Waco council downs statue: "WACO, Texas (AP) — The City Council rejected a proposal for a giant statue of a Texas Ranger lawman designed to loom over Interstate 35 and the Brazos River, citing a lack of public support.
The council voted 5-1 Tuesday against allowing the 65-foot concrete statue to be erected on city land in front of the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum."
The council voted 5-1 Tuesday against allowing the 65-foot concrete statue to be erected on city land in front of the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum."
A Hairy Deal
Report: Tom Jones has chest hair insured: "t's Not Unusual ... it's really unusual.
Ageless heartthrob Sir Tom Jones has reportedly insured his chest hair for almost $7 million.
Though the 67-year-old crooner's management told a British tabloid that Jones has been 'working far too hard in the recording studio' for such frivolity, media reports have confirmed the policy was taken out with the world-renowned Lloyd's of London."
Ageless heartthrob Sir Tom Jones has reportedly insured his chest hair for almost $7 million.
Though the 67-year-old crooner's management told a British tabloid that Jones has been 'working far too hard in the recording studio' for such frivolity, media reports have confirmed the policy was taken out with the world-renowned Lloyd's of London."
Shaq Attack
Sheriff's Uniform Waiting for Shaq: "Sheriff Joe Arpaio is excited that Shaq's coming to town.
Arpaio deputized Shaquille O'Neal, who became a Phoenix Sun on Wednesday, two years ago.
``Actually, I made him a colonel after he won the NBA championship (with the Miami Heat in 2006),' Arpaio said after learning of the trade.
``He's a great addition to the Valley. He's a good guy and likes law enforcement, and I hope he'll be good for the Phoenix Suns.'
The sheriff added, ``I'm glad he's coming out to my turf. I'm hoping we'll recruit him for our posse. Maybe we'll go after illegal immigrants and other crime.'"
Arpaio deputized Shaquille O'Neal, who became a Phoenix Sun on Wednesday, two years ago.
``Actually, I made him a colonel after he won the NBA championship (with the Miami Heat in 2006),' Arpaio said after learning of the trade.
``He's a great addition to the Valley. He's a good guy and likes law enforcement, and I hope he'll be good for the Phoenix Suns.'
The sheriff added, ``I'm glad he's coming out to my turf. I'm hoping we'll recruit him for our posse. Maybe we'll go after illegal immigrants and other crime.'"
James Bond/Amy Winehouse Update
Amy Winehouse to write & sing the bond theme tune - if she kicks the drugs | Showbiz Gossip, Showbiz News, Entertainment News - Showbiz Spy: "Troubled Amy Winehouse will get to write the theme tune and sing the theme tune for the new James Bond movie - if she can stay off the drugs for two months, it has been revealed.
The ‘Back to Black’ songstress - who’s currently battling her drugs demons in a London rehab clinic - has been told by film bosses she must clean up her act by April to make the record.
A source said last night: “That’s when the Bond people make a final decision on who sings the theme. If Amy is clean then, it’s hers.”"
The ‘Back to Black’ songstress - who’s currently battling her drugs demons in a London rehab clinic - has been told by film bosses she must clean up her act by April to make the record.
A source said last night: “That’s when the Bond people make a final decision on who sings the theme. If Amy is clean then, it’s hers.”"
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Will Texas Lead the Way?
Burnt Orange Report::: Will Texas Pick the President?: "Barack Obama's strong performance on Super Tuesday all but guarantees that Texas primary voters will play a key role, maybe the key role, in selecting the Democratic nominee for president of the United States."
How Pollution Created the Creepiest Movie Mutants
The second movie mentioned is a personal favorite.
Horrorhead: How Pollution Created the Creepiest Movie Mutants: "Back in the 1950s, it seemed like every monster was created by radiation: giant ants, a giant tarantula, and even a giant dinosauroid thing called Gojira. But ever since the 1970s, an even scarier byproduct of human invention has been creating gloopy crawlies: pollution."
Horrorhead: How Pollution Created the Creepiest Movie Mutants: "Back in the 1950s, it seemed like every monster was created by radiation: giant ants, a giant tarantula, and even a giant dinosauroid thing called Gojira. But ever since the 1970s, an even scarier byproduct of human invention has been creating gloopy crawlies: pollution."
Texan Not Leading the Way
But staying in the race. He's also the first man ever to see my sister-in-law naked, but that's another story.
Star-Telegram.com: | 02/06/2008 | 'Message' candidate doesn't plan to drop out: "One month into the 2008 presidential primaries, Texan Ron Paul has outlasted a half-dozen other GOP hopefuls.
The 72-year-old doctor-turned-politician says he has no plans to quit no matter how everything shakes out today after the Super Tuesday votes are counted."
Star-Telegram.com: | 02/06/2008 | 'Message' candidate doesn't plan to drop out: "One month into the 2008 presidential primaries, Texan Ron Paul has outlasted a half-dozen other GOP hopefuls.
The 72-year-old doctor-turned-politician says he has no plans to quit no matter how everything shakes out today after the Super Tuesday votes are counted."
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Of All Sad Words
The street date is the 19th, but you might want to order one now, either from your favorite independent bookseller or Amazon. Do your part to help me remain rich and famous.
Great News
This press release was sent to me by Jayme Lynn Blaschke.
AUSTIN, Texas -- Home-grown Texas authors Joe R. Lansdale and Ardath Mayhar have been named Toastmaster and Author Emeritus, respecitvely, by the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America for the 2008 Nebula Awards® Weekend April 25-27 in Austin, Texas.
The event will take place at the Omni Austin Hotel Downtown. The event will be hosted by the Austin Literary Arts Maintenance Organization (ALAMO), with the assistance of SFWA members Elizabeth Moon, John Moore and Lee Martindale.
Joe R. Lansdale of Nacogdoches, Texas, is widely regarded as one of the most thoroughly Texan authors writing today. The author and editor of more than two dozen novels, short story collections and anthologies, he has won a variety of awards in multiple fields including the Edgar award for The Bottoms, the Bram Stoker Award six times and the British Fantasy Award. In 2007 he was named Grandmaster by the World Horror Convention. He has also written westerns, comics, dark suspense, humorous pieces and gonzo fiction that can only be described as “Lansdale-esque.” In addition to his writing, Lansdale is the founder and grandmaster of the martial arts system Shen Chuan and an inductee of the International Martial Arts Hall of Fame. His website can be found at www.joerlansdale.com.
Ardath Mayhar of Nacogdoches, Texas, is widely known for her sweet, grandmotherly appearance which belies a quick wit and fast tongue. The author of 36 novels along with numerous short stories and poems, her publishing career began in 1979 with the philosophical fantasy How the Gods Wove in Kyrannon, and in 1982 she published Golden Dream: A Fuzzy Odyssey, a sequel to H. Beam Piper’s Little Fuzzy. From there she published a wide variety of works including science fiction (The World Ends in Hickory Hollow), fantasy (Exile on Vlahil), westerns (under the pseudonym Frank Cannon), a mountain man series (under the pseudonym John Kildeer), horror (The Wall), folklore (Slewfoot Sally and the Flying Mule) and contemporary fiction (Medicine Walk). She also served on the Writers Digest instructional staff, passing her knowledge and critical eye on to younger writers. Her website can be found at www.geocities.com/Area51/Corridor/7172/ardath.html
AUSTIN, Texas -- Home-grown Texas authors Joe R. Lansdale and Ardath Mayhar have been named Toastmaster and Author Emeritus, respecitvely, by the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America for the 2008 Nebula Awards® Weekend April 25-27 in Austin, Texas.
The event will take place at the Omni Austin Hotel Downtown. The event will be hosted by the Austin Literary Arts Maintenance Organization (ALAMO), with the assistance of SFWA members Elizabeth Moon, John Moore and Lee Martindale.
Joe R. Lansdale of Nacogdoches, Texas, is widely regarded as one of the most thoroughly Texan authors writing today. The author and editor of more than two dozen novels, short story collections and anthologies, he has won a variety of awards in multiple fields including the Edgar award for The Bottoms, the Bram Stoker Award six times and the British Fantasy Award. In 2007 he was named Grandmaster by the World Horror Convention. He has also written westerns, comics, dark suspense, humorous pieces and gonzo fiction that can only be described as “Lansdale-esque.” In addition to his writing, Lansdale is the founder and grandmaster of the martial arts system Shen Chuan and an inductee of the International Martial Arts Hall of Fame. His website can be found at www.joerlansdale.com.
Ardath Mayhar of Nacogdoches, Texas, is widely known for her sweet, grandmotherly appearance which belies a quick wit and fast tongue. The author of 36 novels along with numerous short stories and poems, her publishing career began in 1979 with the philosophical fantasy How the Gods Wove in Kyrannon, and in 1982 she published Golden Dream: A Fuzzy Odyssey, a sequel to H. Beam Piper’s Little Fuzzy. From there she published a wide variety of works including science fiction (The World Ends in Hickory Hollow), fantasy (Exile on Vlahil), westerns (under the pseudonym Frank Cannon), a mountain man series (under the pseudonym John Kildeer), horror (The Wall), folklore (Slewfoot Sally and the Flying Mule) and contemporary fiction (Medicine Walk). She also served on the Writers Digest instructional staff, passing her knowledge and critical eye on to younger writers. Her website can be found at www.geocities.com/Area51
The 20 Bestselling Albums and the 20 Most Influential
Click here. I love the album that's #1 on the "most influential" list. I bought it, and I didn't form a band. I still have it, of course.
Paris Noir
I've read only three stories in the book so far, but I've enjoyed all of them. The question I'd ask, however, is "are they noir?" Sparkle Hayter's "Deus ex Machina" is very funny and a bit dark. I'm a sucker for a story about a writer with problems. You can count on Jason Starr for an effective bit of violence. Or two. And you get them in "Bar Fight," a clever story with a couple of nice twists. The closest one to noir, by my definition, is Michael Moorcock's "The Flaneur of Les Arcades de l'Opera." There was a time, more than 30 years ago, when I immersed myself in the Chronicles of Corum, the accounts of Count Brass, the tales of Elric (Elric, for me, is noir), and many other novels of the multiverse, but I haven't kept up with Moorcock's huge production, and I'm not well-versed in the adventures of the Metatemporal Detectives. However, I knew enough to follow the story quite well, and it made me want to read more of this series. I'll be reading more of the stories in the book, which has a great line-up of authors.
Monday, February 04, 2008
The Real Paris (Hilton, That Is)
Will the real Paris Hilton please stand up? - Movie interviews- msnbc.com: "LOS ANGELES - Because of her checkered past, most folks don’t expect much from Paris Hilton. She, however, made it clear that she has high expectations of herself, while promoting “The Hottie and the Nottie,” a romantic comedy hitting theaters on Friday that she executive produced and stars in."
Thanks to the ever-alert John Duke for the link.
Thanks to the ever-alert John Duke for the link.
Famous Writer Quits Day Job
Duane Swierczynski resigns as City Paper editor | Philadelphia Daily News | 02/04/2008: "City Paper editor Duane Swierczynski gave notice today that Feb. 15 he'll be leaving the weekly that he's run since October 2004. Swierczynski told us moments ago that he's leaving to focus more on the mystery novels that he now writes only on nights and weekends. His latest, 'The Blonde,' is out from St. Martin's Minotaur."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
The Associated Press: Man Says Exorcism Led to Wife's Death: "ODESSA, Texas (AP) — A man accused of killing his wife says he was trying to exorcise a demon from her when the devil entered his body and caused her to die, according to a police probable cause statement.
Jan David Clark, 60, was arrested Friday after authorities went to his home and found Susan Kay Clark's body wrapped in a bed sheet with a cross and sword on top of it."
Jan David Clark, 60, was arrested Friday after authorities went to his home and found Susan Kay Clark's body wrapped in a bed sheet with a cross and sword on top of it."
Soon We'll Have No Rights Left at All
New Rule: No Farting In School :: Legal Juice: "As reported in The Knox County Times, Camden-Rockport Middle School in New Jersey has banned farting, apparently due to a bunch of superfarting eighth-graders."
Croc Update (Cane Toad Edition)
Cane toads threaten rare crocodile population - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation): "North Australian environmentalists say time is running out to save a rare miniature crocodile from extinction.
Ten dead freshwater crocodiles have been discovered in a remote billabong on Auvergne Station near the Northern Territory and Western Australia border.
Post-mortem results showed they died from eating cane toads."
Ten dead freshwater crocodiles have been discovered in a remote billabong on Auvergne Station near the Northern Territory and Western Australia border.
Post-mortem results showed they died from eating cane toads."
Sunday, February 03, 2008
Will the Persecution Never End?
50 CENT - 50 CENT MAKES PARIS HILTON CRY: "Rap superstar 50 CENT kicked PARIS HILTON offstage and reduced her to tears during a pre-Super Bowl concert on Thursday (31Jan08). Hilton hosted the bash for 944 magazine in Scottsdale, Arizona and was stunned when the headliner turned on her."
Worst Movie Dialogue Ever?
Photo 1 | 15 Nominees for Worst Movie Dialogue Ever | Photos | EW.com: "Some of the most regrettable lines in Hollywood history come from the mouths of babes (Drew Barrymore), Oscar nominees (Tom Cruise), and superheroes (Halle Berry). Here are 15 of the all-time silliest."
A Trip to Bountiful?
The reason for the sparse posting today is that Judy and I took her mother home for a quick visit and to pick up a few things from her house. I don't think the idea that she'd probably never see the place again sunk in, and Judy and I certainly didn't mention it. A few of her friends saw the car in the driveway and stopped in. We took her to the new church to see the pews that hadn't been put in when she came here for Christmas. We came back here. Life goes on.
Frenzy -- James O. Causey
James O. Causey is one of those writers about whom I know nothing at all. I have three or four books by him, and that's it. This one is the real thing, right there in Jim Thompson territory.The narrator is a self-described two-bit grifter, a small-timer who screws up every time he gets close to the big time. After his most recent beating, he goes back to his hometown and sees the opportunity to make his big score at last. He's willing to do whatever it takes to get to the top. He'll lie to anyone, use anyone, cheat anyone. Old friends? Screw 'em. Family members? Screw 'em. When you think he's gone about as low as possible, he sinks lower. And finally . . . well, that's what you'll have to find out for yourself. The ending packs quite a noir punch.
Frenzy has a lot of sex and even more violence, along with one of the most despicable characters you'll ever run across. I'm surprised this one hasn't been reprinted, but reading copies turn up cheap now and then. Check it out if you like the down and dirty.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Hollywood Elsewhere on The Friends of Eddie Coyle
• Hollywood Elsewhere •: "Six years and three months ago, I begged Paramount Home Video to please think about issuing a DVD of Peter Yates' The Friends of Eddie Coyle. Beloved by serious crime fans, one of greatest hard-boiled noirs of the '70s, a classic of its kind and still absent from the shelves and the Netflix rent list in early '08."
Anna Nicole Smith Update
E! News - Daniel Smith's Pictorial Postmortem? - Anna Nicole Smith: "If only these pictures could speak for themselves.
Howard K. Stern took several photographs of Daniel Smith's lifeless body, thinking he could make a profit on the morbid shots, a former companion of Anna Nicole Smith's testified Wednesday during the ongoing inquest into her 20-year-old son's 2006 death."
Howard K. Stern took several photographs of Daniel Smith's lifeless body, thinking he could make a profit on the morbid shots, a former companion of Anna Nicole Smith's testified Wednesday during the ongoing inquest into her 20-year-old son's 2006 death."
Friday, February 01, 2008
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Popular dancing video game making its way to area P.E. classes: "Midway elementary schools have a new secret weapon to get kids moving — video games.
“Dance Dance Revolution,” the hit video game from Japanese arcades to American living rooms, is now the hot new activity in South Bosque Elementary School’s physical education classes.
“It’s good for cardiovascular, rhythm, coordination, timing,” said South Bosque PE teacher Brenda Schaefer. “It really is a well-rounded blend of things.”"
“Dance Dance Revolution,” the hit video game from Japanese arcades to American living rooms, is now the hot new activity in South Bosque Elementary School’s physical education classes.
“It’s good for cardiovascular, rhythm, coordination, timing,” said South Bosque PE teacher Brenda Schaefer. “It really is a well-rounded blend of things.”"
This Year's List
You'll have to excuse me. I'm going to put on my shawl and sit in front of the fire.
Beloit College Public Affairs: "Most of the students entering College this fall, members of the Class of 2011, were born in 1989. For them, Alvin Ailey, Andrei Sakharov, Huey Newton, Emperor Hirohito, Ted Bundy, Abbie Hoffman, and Don the Beachcomber have always been dead."
Beloit College Public Affairs: "Most of the students entering College this fall, members of the Class of 2011, were born in 1989. For them, Alvin Ailey, Andrei Sakharov, Huey Newton, Emperor Hirohito, Ted Bundy, Abbie Hoffman, and Don the Beachcomber have always been dead."
Which Predictions Did Golden Age Science Fiction Get Right & Wrong?
SF Signal: MIND MELD: Which Predictions Did Golden Age Science Fiction Get Right & Wrong?: "Although science fiction fans know better, the general populace likes to think of sf as being written with the express purpose of predicting the future. So we posed the following question to a bunch of people in the since fiction community:
Science fiction is often accused of being The Great Predictor. Which predictions did Golden Age science fiction get right? Which ones were way off the mark?"
Science fiction is often accused of being The Great Predictor. Which predictions did Golden Age science fiction get right? Which ones were way off the mark?"
Gator Update (Sawed-Off Edition)
Man convicted of having sawed-off shotgun in stuffed alligator -- amNY.com: "ALBANY, N.Y. - A 50-year-old man faces up to 15 years in prison for having a sawed-off shotgun inside his stuffed alligator, according to prosecutors."
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Cheeseburger in a Can Update
If you click here, you can get the whole experience in pictures, from the purchase to the eating. You have to scroll through a number of posts, but it's all there.
Croc Update (Missing Link Edition)
Brazil finds fossil of missing link to crocodile | Science | Reuters: "RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) - Brazilian paleontologists said on Thursday they had found the fossil of a new species of prehistoric predator that represented a 'missing link' to modern-day crocodiles.
The well-preserved fossil of Montealtosuchus arrudacamposi, a medium-sized lizard-like predator measuring about 5 1/2 feet (1.7 meters) from head to tail, dates back about 80 million years to the Late Cretaceous period.
'This is scientifically important because the specimen literally is the link between more primitive crocodiles that lived in the era of the dinosaurs 80-85 million years ago and modern species,' said paleontologist Ismar de Souza Carvalho of Rio de Janeiro Federal University."
The well-preserved fossil of Montealtosuchus arrudacamposi, a medium-sized lizard-like predator measuring about 5 1/2 feet (1.7 meters) from head to tail, dates back about 80 million years to the Late Cretaceous period.
'This is scientifically important because the specimen literally is the link between more primitive crocodiles that lived in the era of the dinosaurs 80-85 million years ago and modern species,' said paleontologist Ismar de Souza Carvalho of Rio de Janeiro Federal University."
UFO Update Update (Yes, Another One from Stepheville)
Secret technology might account for UFO sightings : Big Country : Abilene Reporter-News: "WASHINGTON -- Put the alien theories on hold; at least that's what some experts would suggest.
Instead of beings from outer space visiting Big Country skies, the Air Force could be secretly working out the kinks in the next U-2 spy plane or B-2 stealth bomber.
U.S. military pilots could have been at the helm of unidentified flying objects decked out with secret technology, accounting for reports from Erath, Brown and Comanche counties in the past month.
After all, the military possesses experimental technologies the public might not know about until decades after development."
Instead of beings from outer space visiting Big Country skies, the Air Force could be secretly working out the kinks in the next U-2 spy plane or B-2 stealth bomber.
U.S. military pilots could have been at the helm of unidentified flying objects decked out with secret technology, accounting for reports from Erath, Brown and Comanche counties in the past month.
After all, the military possesses experimental technologies the public might not know about until decades after development."
Couldn't they Arrest the Baggage Handlers?
For dwarf tossing?
Thanks to Steve Stilwell for the link.
Dwarves zipped in suitcases steal from Swedes - Telegraph: "Criminal gangs are using dwarves in a ruse to steal from the luggage holds of long-distance coaches, by hiding them inside suitcases, according to police.
The bizarre crime is on the rise in Sweden and officers say thieves have got away with thousands of pounds in cash, jewellery and other valuables in recent months.
Gangs are said to sneak the dwarves into the luggage hold, hidden inside baggage.
Then, once the journey has begun, the stowaways are free to rifle through the bags of other passengers without fear of being apprehended."
Thanks to Steve Stilwell for the link.
Dwarves zipped in suitcases steal from Swedes - Telegraph: "Criminal gangs are using dwarves in a ruse to steal from the luggage holds of long-distance coaches, by hiding them inside suitcases, according to police.
The bizarre crime is on the rise in Sweden and officers say thieves have got away with thousands of pounds in cash, jewellery and other valuables in recent months.
Gangs are said to sneak the dwarves into the luggage hold, hidden inside baggage.
Then, once the journey has begun, the stowaways are free to rifle through the bags of other passengers without fear of being apprehended."
Spinetingler Awards
Congratulations to all and especially to the winners.
And the new issue of Spinetingler is up, too.
Then there's At Central Booking, a new networking site. Sandra Ruttan's been busy.
Check it all out.
And the new issue of Spinetingler is up, too.
Then there's At Central Booking, a new networking site. Sandra Ruttan's been busy.
Check it all out.
We're UN Troops . . .
. . . and we're here to deface your prehistoric art.
UN vandals spray graffiti on Sahara’s prehistoric art - Times Online: "Spectacular prehistoric depictions of animal and human figures created up to 6,000 years ago on Western Saharan rocks have been vandalised by United Nations peacekeepers, The Times has learnt.
Archaeological sites boasting ancient paintings and engravings of giraffes, buffalo and elephants have been defaced within the past two years by personnel attached to the UN mission, known by its French acronym, Minurso."
UN vandals spray graffiti on Sahara’s prehistoric art - Times Online: "Spectacular prehistoric depictions of animal and human figures created up to 6,000 years ago on Western Saharan rocks have been vandalised by United Nations peacekeepers, The Times has learnt.
Archaeological sites boasting ancient paintings and engravings of giraffes, buffalo and elephants have been defaced within the past two years by personnel attached to the UN mission, known by its French acronym, Minurso."
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
James Reasoner Update
This is from Rusty Burke and was posted on the REHUPA list. I'm reprinting it with Rusty's permission.
I just talked to Jim, he seemed in pretty good spirits, all things considered -- he was bein' Jim. Says they don't have any real immediate needs -- Red Cross gave them some assistance, insurance gave them some (and house, truck, etc. were insured, though of course the books and pulps and such are probably irreplaceable). They're staying with his in-laws for now. But in spite of my bringing up the offer several times, he says they don't need any immediate help, they are well taken care of.
He did say that once they get settled and he has the space, he would certainly appreciate donations such as Larry is talking about, books about the West, copies of his own work, etc.
He lost the book he was working on, which was about half done. He emailed his editor when he was at the library and says he was told "I would drive nails through my hands before I'd take that book away from you." Now there's a good editor! Has five books lined up and is going to get working as soon as he can pick up a new laptop.
As to the origin of the fire: as most of you know, it's been dry in Texas, and there are burn bans all over the state. He says the wind was blowing like hell yesterday, and the fire department thinks that some electrical wires blew together and arced, sending sparks into the dry grass, the wind whipped it up and sent it racing right at his house. He was at home alone -- the girls were off at their schools student teaching and Livia was running errands -- and he smelled smoke. He went outside and saw the field on fire, racing toward the house. He grabbed the hose, turned back around and saw how fast the fire was coming, said the hell with it, threw down the hose and ran into the house and grabbed the dog and ran like hell. Said the whole time from when he saw the flames to when he was running for his life was about a minute and a half. That fire must have been damned hot to take the house and studio as quickly and totally as it did. He also lost that beautiful new F-150 I was admiring when I saw him at the REH Birthday Bash just a little over a week ago.
I should let Jim tell his story himself once he gets up and running again -- he promises that once he has the laptop he'll find a wireless joint and get back online and bring us up to date. But like I say, he seemed to be in pretty good spirits. So keep sending good thoughts their way, but we don't need to organize any immediate relief efforts.
If you have or can get copies of his books or the anthologies with his contributions, or books about Texas and the West, I know that when the time comes that he can start putting a library together again he will appreciate it.
I just talked to Jim, he seemed in pretty good spirits, all things considered -- he was bein' Jim. Says they don't have any real immediate needs -- Red Cross gave them some assistance, insurance gave them some (and house, truck, etc. were insured, though of course the books and pulps and such are probably irreplaceable). They're staying with his in-laws for now. But in spite of my bringing up the offer several times, he says they don't need any immediate help, they are well taken care of.
He did say that once they get settled and he has the space, he would certainly appreciate donations such as Larry is talking about, books about the West, copies of his own work, etc.
He lost the book he was working on, which was about half done. He emailed his editor when he was at the library and says he was told "I would drive nails through my hands before I'd take that book away from you." Now there's a good editor! Has five books lined up and is going to get working as soon as he can pick up a new laptop.
As to the origin of the fire: as most of you know, it's been dry in Texas, and there are burn bans all over the state. He says the wind was blowing like hell yesterday, and the fire department thinks that some electrical wires blew together and arced, sending sparks into the dry grass, the wind whipped it up and sent it racing right at his house. He was at home alone -- the girls were off at their schools student teaching and Livia was running errands -- and he smelled smoke. He went outside and saw the field on fire, racing toward the house. He grabbed the hose, turned back around and saw how fast the fire was coming, said the hell with it, threw down the hose and ran into the house and grabbed the dog and ran like hell. Said the whole time from when he saw the flames to when he was running for his life was about a minute and a half. That fire must have been damned hot to take the house and studio as quickly and totally as it did. He also lost that beautiful new F-150 I was admiring when I saw him at the REH Birthday Bash just a little over a week ago.
I should let Jim tell his story himself once he gets up and running again -- he promises that once he has the laptop he'll find a wireless joint and get back online and bring us up to date. But like I say, he seemed to be in pretty good spirits. So keep sending good thoughts their way, but we don't need to organize any immediate relief efforts.
If you have or can get copies of his books or the anthologies with his contributions, or books about Texas and the West, I know that when the time comes that he can start putting a library together again he will appreciate it.
Script Doctor
Dr. Mark R. Brinker not ready to quit his day job | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "Houston doctor Mark R. Brinker has scored his first Hollywood credit: as a co-screenwriter of Untraceable, the moody cyber-thriller starring Diane Lane that opened last week. Better still, he and writing partner Robert Fyvolent have already signed for their next project: They're adapting Fatal Frame, a popular video game, into a horror flick for DreamWorks Pictures.
But that doesn't mean Brinker is ready to quit his day job.
Based in Houston since 1993, the 47-year-old Brinker is a top-notch orthopedic surgeon, specializing in trauma, acute injury and reconstructive repair. He holds active staff appointments at Texas Orthopedic Hospital and Hermann Hospital."
But that doesn't mean Brinker is ready to quit his day job.
Based in Houston since 1993, the 47-year-old Brinker is a top-notch orthopedic surgeon, specializing in trauma, acute injury and reconstructive repair. He holds active staff appointments at Texas Orthopedic Hospital and Hermann Hospital."
Judy Update
I'm still reeling from the news about James and Livia Reasoner's house and studio being lost, but I do have some good news. Judy and I went to M. D. Anderson today to find out about the battery of tests she had on Monday. The results were excellent. She's completely free of the lymphoma. The doctor says that 50% of patients who receive "standard of care" treatment go five or more years before symptoms return. He hopes, as we do, that the clinical trial Judy was on will have even better results.
Thanks to all of you for your support during this tough time. All the good thoughts, prayers, and positive energy were more help than I can say. Don't forget us, but turn some of that stuff Jame and Livia's way.
Thanks to all of you for your support during this tough time. All the good thoughts, prayers, and positive energy were more help than I can say. Don't forget us, but turn some of that stuff Jame and Livia's way.
There Just Aren't any Words
After reading this, I can't imagine what James and Livia must be feeling and going through. I'm stunned and sick about it. I know you'll all want to remember them in your thoughts and prayers.
Smoked Rat Update
Customs officers seize hundreds of headless rats destined for London restaurants | the Daily Mail: "Customs officers have seized hundreds of headless rats which were being smuggled to London So African diners could crunch into their bones and flesh.
Hundreds of rat corpses - which had been smoked to improve their flavour - were found at Tilbury Docks, in London.
The grisly discovery was made by customs officials as they made a routine inspection of a shipment of synthetic hair at the docks."
Hundreds of rat corpses - which had been smoked to improve their flavour - were found at Tilbury Docks, in London.
The grisly discovery was made by customs officials as they made a routine inspection of a shipment of synthetic hair at the docks."
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Crime Update
Thanks to John Duke for the link.
The Associated Press: Archivist Accused of Stealing
Artifacts: "NEW YORK (AP) — A state archivist was charged with stealing hundreds of artifacts — documents representing 'the heritage of all Americans,' according to the history buff who found some of them on eBay — to pay his household bills.
Daniel Lorello, 54, is accused of taking the rare items from the New York State Library, including Davy Crockett Almanacs, Currier and Ives lithographs and the 1865 railroad timetable for Abraham Lincoln's funeral train. Authorities believe he hawked them for tens of thousands of dollars, using much of that to pay off his daughter's credit card debt."
The Associated Press: Archivist Accused of Stealing
Artifacts: "NEW YORK (AP) — A state archivist was charged with stealing hundreds of artifacts — documents representing 'the heritage of all Americans,' according to the history buff who found some of them on eBay — to pay his household bills.
Daniel Lorello, 54, is accused of taking the rare items from the New York State Library, including Davy Crockett Almanacs, Currier and Ives lithographs and the 1865 railroad timetable for Abraham Lincoln's funeral train. Authorities believe he hawked them for tens of thousands of dollars, using much of that to pay off his daughter's credit card debt."
Croc Headline of the Day
Man dies in crocodile orgy | The Courier-Mail: "AMOROUS crocodiles are causing so much havoc to a Papua New Guinean coastal community that authorities have ordered a cull.
Police on the northern PNG island of Manus asked licensed firearm holders to form a hunting party after mating crocodiles killed one man last week.
Earlier in the month a youth from nearby Kali Island was diving with friends when he was attacked by crocodiles."
Police on the northern PNG island of Manus asked licensed firearm holders to form a hunting party after mating crocodiles killed one man last week.
Earlier in the month a youth from nearby Kali Island was diving with friends when he was attacked by crocodiles."
Bond. James Bond.
James Bond: the spy who changed me - Telegraph: "The films are flawed, the books somewhat crude, so why, in his creator's centenary year, are we still in love with James Bond? The writer Anthony Horowitz, whose Rider novels were inspired by 007, says he's a Byronic hero of our time - with a touch of Harry Potter."
Liar's Diary -- Patry Francis
Today, January 29, is the day a lot of bloggers are helping out Patry Francis, who's not able to tour for her book because of her fight with cancer. I'm glad to do what I can for her, and here's a link to the Amazon page if you'd like to buy her book. The paperback is available now. It would be particularly nice if you'd buy from January 29-February 1.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Seeker -- Jack McDevitt
Not so long ago, I mentioned Jack McDevitt's Ancient Shores. George Kelley wrote to say that Seeker was even better, and to prove it, he sent me a copy of the novel. since I had a long day in waiting rooms yesterday, I thought I'd give it a try.Not that I ever doubted it, but George was right. This is the kind of book I'd have loved when I was 15, which is to say it's got all the stuff I like: deep space, the far future, mystery, exploration, lost planets, and readable prose. And I like it that even many thousands of years in the future, people still read books and remember Byron's line about the Assyrians.
Alex Benedict and Chase Kolrath deal in antiquities. When they come across a cup that appears to have been on a ship presumed lost thousands of years previously, a ship that carried colonists from Old Earth to a new home, they're naturally curious. Their investigation leads to them to some dangerous characters and some wonderful discoveries. This is prime stuff, and I enjoyed it.
Dino Update: Save the Tracks!
The first time I saw this exhibit, I was just a tot. It was a big deal for me at the time. I hope they can to something to preserve it.
Dinosaur tracks could be relocated - Top Stories: "UT's Texas Memorial Museum is pressuring University officials to help salvage the remains of a set of prehistoric dinosaur tracks, one of the last of its kind in the world.
Because of improper preservation during the initial excavation in 1938, the 30-ton slab of fossilized sauropod and theropod dinosaur footprints has been deteriorating for more than two decades in the small trackway house outside of the museum."
Dinosaur tracks could be relocated - Top Stories: "UT's Texas Memorial Museum is pressuring University officials to help salvage the remains of a set of prehistoric dinosaur tracks, one of the last of its kind in the world.
Because of improper preservation during the initial excavation in 1938, the 30-ton slab of fossilized sauropod and theropod dinosaur footprints has been deteriorating for more than two decades in the small trackway house outside of the museum."
Fred Savage is 31? Good Grief.
Usmagazine.com | Actor Fred Savage and Wife Expecting Second Child: "Fred Savage and his wife Jennifer Stone have another little one on the way!
'We are expecting baby number 2!” the actor, 31, told Usmagazine.com at the 60th annual Directors Guild of America Awards in L.A. Saturday."
'We are expecting baby number 2!” the actor, 31, told Usmagazine.com at the 60th annual Directors Guild of America Awards in L.A. Saturday."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
WFAA TV: Denton County prosecutors decided Friday to wash their hands of a case against a Lewisville middle school student accused of trying to get high by sniffing his teacher's hand sanitizer.
Three days after filing delinquency charges against the youth, prosecutors did a turnaround and decided that the common cleaning gel is not an abusive inhalant under the Texas Health and Safety Code.
"It's not a crime. Hand sanitizer does not fall within that statute," said Jamie Beck, first assistant district attorney in Denton County. "The police agency brought it up mistakenly thinking it was."
Three days after filing delinquency charges against the youth, prosecutors did a turnaround and decided that the common cleaning gel is not an abusive inhalant under the Texas Health and Safety Code.
"It's not a crime. Hand sanitizer does not fall within that statute," said Jamie Beck, first assistant district attorney in Denton County. "The police agency brought it up mistakenly thinking it was."
Free Music Update Update
Daily Mail: Music fans around the world faced confusion today as it was announced they would be able to download unlimited, free songs without breaking the law.
A revamped online file-sharing service had vowed to offer a catalogue of 30million free songs that are compatible with iPods, but record labels have denied they had granted permission to share the songs.
Free Music Update
From today, feel free to download another 25 million songs - legally - Times Online: "After a decade fighting to stop illegal file-sharing, the music industry will give fans today what they have always wanted: an unlimited supply of free and legal songs.
With CD sales in free fall and legal downloads yet to fill the gap, the music industry has reluctantly embraced the file-sharing technology that threatened to destroy it. Qtrax, a digital service announced today, promises a catalogue of more than 25 million songs that users can download to keep, free and with no limit on the number of tracks."
With CD sales in free fall and legal downloads yet to fill the gap, the music industry has reluctantly embraced the file-sharing technology that threatened to destroy it. Qtrax, a digital service announced today, promises a catalogue of more than 25 million songs that users can download to keep, free and with no limit on the number of tracks."
Another Day at MDA
Judy and I will be at MD Anderson all day today. She's going to get the full array of tests: bone marrow biopsy, CT-scan, PET scan. Our son is visiting from Austin, and he'll stay here at the house with his grandmother while we're gone. We hope this is going to be the last of the testing for a while, and of course we're hoping that the results are all positive. Judy's feeling like a lab rat about now, and she thinks that once you get into the hands of the medical establishment, they never let you go. But at least maybe they'll give her a short break.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Duck and Cover
The Associated Press: Defunct Spy Satellite Falling From Orbit: "WASHINGTON (AP) — A large U.S. spy satellite has lost power and propulsion and could hit the Earth in late February or March, government officials said Saturday.
The satellite, which no longer can be controlled, could contain hazardous materials, and it is unknown where on the planet it might come down, they said. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because the information is classified as secret.
'Appropriate government agencies are monitoring the situation,' said Gordon Johndroe, a spokesman for the National Security Council. 'Numerous satellites over the years have come out of orbit and fallen harmlessly. We are looking at potential options to mitigate any possible damage this satellite may cause.'"
The satellite, which no longer can be controlled, could contain hazardous materials, and it is unknown where on the planet it might come down, they said. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because the information is classified as secret.
'Appropriate government agencies are monitoring the situation,' said Gordon Johndroe, a spokesman for the National Security Council. 'Numerous satellites over the years have come out of orbit and fallen harmlessly. We are looking at potential options to mitigate any possible damage this satellite may cause.'"
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