2 elderly women on trial in murder plot - Yahoo! News: "LOS ANGELES - Two elderly women accused of killing two transient men with a car so they could collect nearly $3 million in insurance money were videotaped talking about the scheme while in FBI custody, the prosecutor said in opening statements Tuesday.
'It's your fault,' Olga Rutterschmidt, 75, told co-defendant Helen Golay, 77, in the tape played for the jury. 'You can't have that many insurers. ... You were greedy. That's the problem.'"
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Zombie Strippers
You gotta admit it's a great title. Whether the movie is great is another question. Link via Hollywood Elsewhere.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Arthur C Clarke, R. I. P.
When I was a kid, Clarke's work knocked me out: Childhood's End, The City and the Stars, "The Star," "The Nine Billion Names of God."Science fiction author Arthur C Clarke dies aged 90 - Times Online: "Science fiction writer Sir Arthur C Clarke has died aged 90 in his adopted home of Sri Lanka, it was confirmed tonight.
Clarke, who had battled debilitating post-polio syndrome since the 1960s and sometimes used a wheelchair, died at 1:30am after suffering breathing problems, his personal secretary Rohan De Silva said.
“Sir Arthur passed away a short while ago at the Apollo Hospital [in Colombo]. He had a cardio-respiratory attack,” he said."
"Like Paris Hilton or Something."
Vodka Brand Wants Call Girl to Be Latest 'Butt Girl' - Advertising Age - News: "CHICAGO (AdAge.com) -- The owner of Georgi vodka said he is in talks to put the derriere of former New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer's call girl on the backside of every bus in New York.
Star Industries CEO Martin Silver, who owns U.S. rights to the brand, told Ad Age his firm is making headway in talks to pay Ashley Dupre a low six-figure amount to be this year's Georgi 'butt girl,' the annual pinup the brand posts on the backs of city buses and the tops of taxicabs.
'The girls' butt we have on there now is pretty good, but if you can get [Dupre] to do it, and to make some personal appearances, it's like Paris Hilton or something,' said Mr. Silver. 'We are trying to work out a contract,' he added."
Thanks to Todd Mason for the link.
Star Industries CEO Martin Silver, who owns U.S. rights to the brand, told Ad Age his firm is making headway in talks to pay Ashley Dupre a low six-figure amount to be this year's Georgi 'butt girl,' the annual pinup the brand posts on the backs of city buses and the tops of taxicabs.
'The girls' butt we have on there now is pretty good, but if you can get [Dupre] to do it, and to make some personal appearances, it's like Paris Hilton or something,' said Mr. Silver. 'We are trying to work out a contract,' he added."
Thanks to Todd Mason for the link.
A Podcast by David Jack Bell
David Jack Bell, a friend of the blog, sends word of a podcast of his reading from his novel The Condemned. Check it out.
100 Best Last Lines
This is a pdf file, so be warned. I 've read a heck of a lot of the books represented, but the coolest thing to me is that #16 is from a book translated by one of my former students, a kid I gave a copy of Tom Robbins' Another Roadside Attraction, which blew his mind. It was a long time ago.
Link via Neatorama.
Link via Neatorama.
FreeCell
I can quit any time I want to.
growabrain: Why is FreeCell so popular?: "FreeCell is a solitaire 52-card game with “no stunning graphics, no sound and a workmanlike game engine”. But for sheer addictive compulsion and appeal, it deserves a place in the hall of fame."
growabrain: Why is FreeCell so popular?: "FreeCell is a solitaire 52-card game with “no stunning graphics, no sound and a workmanlike game engine”. But for sheer addictive compulsion and appeal, it deserves a place in the hall of fame."
Monday, March 17, 2008
But it Was Still Better than Cafeteria Food
Boy Says Teacher Forced Him To Urinate In Lunchbox During Class - News Story - WFTV Orlando: "ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. -- Orange County Public Schools is investigating claims that a student was forced to use a lunchbox as a toilet in front of his class at Meadowbrook Middle School."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
We were in Galveston on Saturday. I'm glad we weren't there yesterday.
Rap concert brawl overwhelms Galveston police | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "GALVESTON — An outdoor rap concert ended in multiple fights and unruly partying that police say 'completely overwhelmed' officers who struggled to restore order and herd nearly 5,000 cars off the beach in this island city.
At least 12 people were arrested and one officer broke his finger Sunday trying to control the crowd, Galveston police Lt. Jorge Trevino said. Almost four hours passed before police cleared the streets."
Rap concert brawl overwhelms Galveston police | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "GALVESTON — An outdoor rap concert ended in multiple fights and unruly partying that police say 'completely overwhelmed' officers who struggled to restore order and herd nearly 5,000 cars off the beach in this island city.
At least 12 people were arrested and one officer broke his finger Sunday trying to control the crowd, Galveston police Lt. Jorge Trevino said. Almost four hours passed before police cleared the streets."
Mr. Brooks
Judy, in spite of her mild exterior, likes serial killer movies. She'd wanted to see Mr. Brooks in the theater, but we missed it. Today we caught it on DVD, and we both liked it.Kevin Costner plays the title character, the Businessman of the Year in Portland, who also happens to be the Thumbprint Killer. He has an alter ego, Marshal, played by William Hurt. Costner and Marshal do a fine job and have great conversations. Costner also has a beautiful wife, a daughter who's dropped out of college and is pregnant. He's being hunted by a cop played by Demi Moore (and she's very good), who's quite wealthy (worth $60 million) and who's involved in a messy divorce. She's also being pursued by an escaped serial killer known as the Hangman. On his last job, Costner was seen and photographed by "Mr. Smith," played very well by Dane Cook, who's decided that he wants to be an apprentice serial killer. And, finally, Costner has a leaky kitchen sink that defies the local plumber.
Okay, I made that last one up, but everything else I said is in the movie, and there's even more than that. But I didn't want to spoil everything for you. The movie didn't do well at the box office, so I suppose we'll never get the promised sequel. Dang.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
It's Time for a Love Vacation!
Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition - Home: "Finnish Parliament debates proposal for 'love vacations'
A proposal by MP Tommy Tabermann (SDP) to grant all employees a paid 7-day 'love vacation' once a year led to an exceptionally colourful debate in Parliament on Thursday evening.
Mostly those MPs who had signed the proposal took part in the debate, but also others regarded the idea as recommendable.
According to Tabermann, the purpose of such vacations would be to prevent relations from disintegrating and the spouses from drifting apart.
During the seven days, couples could devote themselves to each other ”both at an erotic and emotional level” and ”find their way back to the path of love in order to find the wellspring of love again”.
Some MPs suspected that the proposal might discriminate against single persons, but others said that a love vacation would be the privilege of all, even the singles and the single parents."
A proposal by MP Tommy Tabermann (SDP) to grant all employees a paid 7-day 'love vacation' once a year led to an exceptionally colourful debate in Parliament on Thursday evening.
Mostly those MPs who had signed the proposal took part in the debate, but also others regarded the idea as recommendable.
According to Tabermann, the purpose of such vacations would be to prevent relations from disintegrating and the spouses from drifting apart.
During the seven days, couples could devote themselves to each other ”both at an erotic and emotional level” and ”find their way back to the path of love in order to find the wellspring of love again”.
Some MPs suspected that the proposal might discriminate against single persons, but others said that a love vacation would be the privilege of all, even the singles and the single parents."
Peru Update
Lawmakers defend traditional coca use - Yahoo! News: "LIMA (Reuters) - Lawmakers defiantly chewed coca in Peru's Congress on Thursday while criticizing a U.N. recommendation to criminalize traditional uses of the plant.
The coca leaf, the raw ingredient of cocaine, is used by millions of people to stave off hunger and fight altitude sickness. It is also used in teas, in cooking and by fortune tellers.
'The coca leaf has existed for thousands and thousands of years. It's part of our agriculture, our food and our medicine. It's sacred,' Congresswoman Hilaria Supa told Reuters before the start of Thursday's session."
The coca leaf, the raw ingredient of cocaine, is used by millions of people to stave off hunger and fight altitude sickness. It is also used in teas, in cooking and by fortune tellers.
'The coca leaf has existed for thousands and thousands of years. It's part of our agriculture, our food and our medicine. It's sacred,' Congresswoman Hilaria Supa told Reuters before the start of Thursday's session."
Once Again, I Didn't Make the List
The world's 50 most powerful blogs | Technology | The Observer: "The world's 50 most powerful blogs
From Prince Harry in Afghanistan to Tom Cruise ranting about Scientology and footage from the Burmese uprising, blogging has never been bigger. It can help elect presidents and take down attorney generals while simultaneously celebrating the minutiae of our everyday obsessions. Here are the 50 best reasons to log on."
From Prince Harry in Afghanistan to Tom Cruise ranting about Scientology and footage from the Burmese uprising, blogging has never been bigger. It can help elect presidents and take down attorney generals while simultaneously celebrating the minutiae of our everyday obsessions. Here are the 50 best reasons to log on."
Gator Update (Education Edition)
Photo of Maximo, the largest croc at the gator park, can be found at the link.
Oh My! | TheLedger.com: "It's pretty easy to find an alligator in these parts. The reptile associated with Florida is not difficult to locate. For a real education about the animal, a trip to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is a good source.
Nothing in St. Augustine goes without history, and the park has its own. In fact, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was founded in 1893 and is considered one of Florida's oldest attractions."
Oh My! | TheLedger.com: "It's pretty easy to find an alligator in these parts. The reptile associated with Florida is not difficult to locate. For a real education about the animal, a trip to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is a good source.
Nothing in St. Augustine goes without history, and the park has its own. In fact, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was founded in 1893 and is considered one of Florida's oldest attractions."
Alley Girl -- Jonathan Craig
I like Jonathan Craig's Gold Medal series about Pete Selby quite a bit. It was Craig's try at capturing the magic of Dragnet in novel form, and I thought it worked pretty well. Most, if not all, the books in the series were later reprinted by Belmont/Tower, but for some reason I didn't buy the reprints. I always thought Craig write these with a copy of Psychopathia Sexualis open beside him on the desk.Alley Girl was written before the Selby series, and it was later reprinted by Berkley as Renegade Cop, a title that's much more descriptive of the contents. Maybe Lion Books was trying to cash in on the "Girl" titles so popular with Gold Medal writer Charles Williams, who'd already published Hill Girl, Big City Girl, and River Girl by the time Alley Girl appeared. Anyway, Alley Girl is a hardboiled noir story about Steve Lambert, a renegade cop. You think those guys on The Badge are tough and corrupt? You should read about Lambert. He makes them look like wussies. He's got a guy in jail as a material witness, when someone offers him $5000 to get the guy convicted. He's happy to do it, but he wants $20,000. He's also banging the guy's wife, who submits in the hope that he'll get her husband freed. And those things are just the start. Lambert is one bad dude.
Craig takes pains to show that not all cops are like Lambert, but of course Lambert's the interesting one. Craig also had his copy of Psychopathia Sexualis open when he was writing this one. There's some kinky stuff, along with some very '50s attitudes that are now very unPC. Don't say I didn't warn you.
In honor of Craig, I've posted a slideshow of covers over on the right. Or I will post it when Slide starts working again. There seems to be a glitch at the moment.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Simply Ballroom
This afternoon Judy and drove down to Galveston to see Simply Ballroom. It's a show that has overtones of Dancing with the Stars and American Idol. With Debbie Reynolds thrown in for good measure. Nine couples, all dance champions from around the world, do the quick step, foxtrot, waltz, and so on. Reynolds is the host, and two Idol finalists provide some vocals. I've never seen a single episode of Idol, but the two are Kimberley Locke and Anthony Fedorov from season four.It's a lot of fun to watch the dancers, who are all young and full of a lot more energy than I remember having when I was their age. It was kind of nice to see Debbie Reynolds, a native Texan, and her monologs were amusing. She even sang "Tammy," and did a fine job of it, too.
Why did we go to this show? Because Judy loves ballroom dancing. She's tried for years to get me interested in signing up for classes, but I have the dancing ability of a brick. It's a lost cause, so the least I could do was take her to see this. It was the first sort of "normal" outing we've had in a very long time, and we both enjoyed it.
Crimson Orgy -- Austin Williams
Crimson Orgy is both the title of the novel and the title of the movie that the characters in the book are making. The setting is Florida, c. 1965, and one of the nice things about the book is that we learn a good bit about how low-budget exploitation films were made back in those days. The industry started with nudies, very popular in the south, until Herschel Gordon Lewis changed the game with Blood Feast.Gene Hoffman and Shel Meyer want to get in on a good thing, so they're making Crimson Orgy, a movie now available only in grainy bootleg VHS copies because the original footage has disappeared. We learn this in the prologue, in which we also learn that a member of the crew died in mysterious circumstance during the filming. What really happened on the shoot? No one knows. Those who might know have either disappeared or kept silent.
But now we have the whole story in the novel. There's a lot more going on than is even hinted in the prologue. If ever the phrase "troubled production" was justified, this is the time. No spoilers here, though. You'll have to get the book if you want to find out all the problems.
Is there gore? Yes, both real and the movie kind. Is there sex? Sure. Humor? Yes, believe it or not. If you're interested in exploitation movies or just some entertaining reading, check it out.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Gator Update (Mystery Solved Edition)
Mystery of Alligator Movement Solved | LiveScience: "Instead of swishing fins, feet or flippers, alligators surprisingly move their lungs around inside their body to dive, surface and roll in water.
This newly discovered strategy may be one that many animals have been employing for millennia to maneuver and avoid creating ripples in the water — helping them sneak toward prey or away from predators.
Up until now, it was a mystery as to how gators 'manage to maneuver so gracefully without the fins and flippers used by fish, seals and other adept swimmers,' said researcher C.G. Farmer, a biologist at the University of Utah at Salt Lake City."
This newly discovered strategy may be one that many animals have been employing for millennia to maneuver and avoid creating ripples in the water — helping them sneak toward prey or away from predators.
Up until now, it was a mystery as to how gators 'manage to maneuver so gracefully without the fins and flippers used by fish, seals and other adept swimmers,' said researcher C.G. Farmer, a biologist at the University of Utah at Salt Lake City."
Vote for Me!
Thanks to Todd Mason for the link.
MTV Green-Lights Paris Hilton Reality Show - 3/13/2008 9:30:00 PM - Broadcasting & Cable: "MTV is saying, 'That's hot,' to Paris Hilton: The network green-lit a 10-episode series starring the socialite to run during the fourth quarter.
Paris Hilton's My New BFF (working title) will star Hilton on a hunt for a new best friend and will be paired with online voting site ParisBFF.com, which launched Thursday. The network planned to announce the series in a press conference in Santa Monica, Calif., Thursday night."
MTV Green-Lights Paris Hilton Reality Show - 3/13/2008 9:30:00 PM - Broadcasting & Cable: "MTV is saying, 'That's hot,' to Paris Hilton: The network green-lit a 10-episode series starring the socialite to run during the fourth quarter.
Paris Hilton's My New BFF (working title) will star Hilton on a hunt for a new best friend and will be paired with online voting site ParisBFF.com, which launched Thursday. The network planned to announce the series in a press conference in Santa Monica, Calif., Thursday night."
Goodbye Sister Disco -- James Patrick Hunt
I've read and enjoyed three of James Patrick Hunt's previous books, which should surprise nobody since he writes the kind of books I like to read: lean, fast, unpretentious, well-plotted stories peopled with vivid characters. [The fact that one (very) minor character is named "Crider" has absolutely nothing to do with my enjoyment of the book, by the way.]This one's about a kidnapping. Nothing new there, but the procedural details, the city of St. Lewis, the feelings of the people involved all seen real and just right. There's humor, too. Not too much, but just enough to keep things balanced. If you've never tried Hunt's work before, this might be a good place to start. You'll probably want to go back and try some of the others, too. I seem to have missed one, and I'm looking for it right now.
Iced
Mystery shrouds discovery of woman's ice-packed body - Examiner.com: "NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. (Map, News) - Police thought they were handling a routine drug bust at a ritzy hotel until they opened a large container and found a woman's body preserved on a bed of dry ice.
In the days since the macabre discovery, the tale has only gotten more bizarre."
In the days since the macabre discovery, the tale has only gotten more bizarre."
Scarlett Update
Cap'n Bob didn't win.
Date with Scarlett sells for $40,100 on eBay - Access Hollywood - msnbc.com: "LOS ANGELES - Scarlett Johansson put herself on the auction block — and it paid off well for the actress and the Oxfam relief organization.
The eBay auction, which was for charity, closed with a winning bid of $40,100 by a lucky bidder who lives in England, Page Six reports. The winner will get to accompany the star to the premiere of her upcoming film, “He’s Just Not That Into You.”"
Date with Scarlett sells for $40,100 on eBay - Access Hollywood - msnbc.com: "LOS ANGELES - Scarlett Johansson put herself on the auction block — and it paid off well for the actress and the Oxfam relief organization.
The eBay auction, which was for charity, closed with a winning bid of $40,100 by a lucky bidder who lives in England, Page Six reports. The winner will get to accompany the star to the premiere of her upcoming film, “He’s Just Not That Into You.”"
Croc Update (Method Edition)
Hopkins' Lecter inspired by tarantula, crocodile - 13 Mar 2008 - NZ Herald: Entertainment News, Reviews and Gossip from New Zealand and around the World: "Sir Anthony Hopkins has revealed to Jim Carrey he based his most famous character Hannibal Lecter on a tarantula and a crocodile.
The screen legend - who won an Oscar for his portrayal of the cannibalistic serial killer in The Silence of the Lambs - revealed his animal inspiration to Jim Carrey."
The screen legend - who won an Oscar for his portrayal of the cannibalistic serial killer in The Silence of the Lambs - revealed his animal inspiration to Jim Carrey."
But Can They Keep Whippersnappers off My Lawn?
The Smart Goggles that could make lost keys, mobile phones or iPod a thing of the past | the Daily Mail: "Those frustratingly frantic searches for mislaid car keys or mobile phones could soon be a thing of the past.
Japanese scientists have invented a pair of intelligent glasses that remembers where people last saw their keys, handbag, iPod or mobile phone."
Japanese scientists have invented a pair of intelligent glasses that remembers where people last saw their keys, handbag, iPod or mobile phone."
The Further Erosion of our Precious Rights
Lafayette, Indiana Weather, News, Sports and Entertainment WLFI.com News Channel 18, Its News Where You Live: Pet store owner accused of posing as veterinarian: "HIGHLAND, Ind. (AP) - Indiana Department of Natural Resources investigators say a Highland pet store owner posed as a veterinarian and allowed a 9-foot alligator to roam the store after hours.
Reptile Emporium owner Brian Robenhorst has been charged with practicing veterinary medicine without a license and theft. He's scheduled to appear in court Monday for an initial hearing."
Reptile Emporium owner Brian Robenhorst has been charged with practicing veterinary medicine without a license and theft. He's scheduled to appear in court Monday for an initial hearing."
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Know Your Cuts of Meat
What's the Beef? Making the Grade At Meat Judging - WSJ.com: "GREELEY, Colo. -- It was cold, at 38 degrees, and noisy enough to require earplugs when Jace Hollenbeck approached the bloody competition floor. Tired from a week of 12-hour practices, he awaited the opening whistle with trepidation.
When the whistle blew, Mr. Hollenbeck says, he steadied himself for competition by remembering his coach's words of the night before: 'We didn't come here to lose.'
Intercollegiate meat-judging competitions have become a serious pursuit with more at stake than the trophies that go to winners of categories like lamb carcasses and pork butts. WSJ's Justin Scheck reports.
Then something happened that could help clinch the victory: He noticed the hardbone."
When the whistle blew, Mr. Hollenbeck says, he steadied himself for competition by remembering his coach's words of the night before: 'We didn't come here to lose.'
Intercollegiate meat-judging competitions have become a serious pursuit with more at stake than the trophies that go to winners of categories like lamb carcasses and pork butts. WSJ's Justin Scheck reports.
Then something happened that could help clinch the victory: He noticed the hardbone."
An Idea Whose Time Has Come
The Typo Eradication Advancement League (TEAL) : What's This All About?: "The Typo Eradication Advancement League (TEAL) is dedicated to a more perfectly spelling union.
This March through May, we, sworn members of TEAL, will be taking a road trip around the country to stamp out as many typos as we can find, in public signage and other venues where innocent eyes may be befouled by vile stains on the delicate fabric of our language. We do not blame, nor chastise, the authors of these typos. It is natural for mistakes to occur; everybody will slip now and again. But slowly the once-unassailable foundations of spelling are crumbling, and the time has come for the crisis to be addressed."
This March through May, we, sworn members of TEAL, will be taking a road trip around the country to stamp out as many typos as we can find, in public signage and other venues where innocent eyes may be befouled by vile stains on the delicate fabric of our language. We do not blame, nor chastise, the authors of these typos. It is natural for mistakes to occur; everybody will slip now and again. But slowly the once-unassailable foundations of spelling are crumbling, and the time has come for the crisis to be addressed."
Tommy Westphall's Mind
Know who Tommy Westphall is? If you do, you might be interested in this exploration of a multiverse almost as complicated as the one created by Michael Moorcock. Link via Neatorama.
Tommy Westphall - A Multiverse Explored: "Tommy Westphall's Mind explores the most elaborate television crossover universe in the history of the medium!"
Tommy Westphall - A Multiverse Explored: "Tommy Westphall's Mind explores the most elaborate television crossover universe in the history of the medium!"
Million Dollar Murder (aka Four Dead Mice) -- Thomas Black
So who's Thomas Black? I know nothing more about him than that he wrote this book narrated by private-eye Al Delaney. The book was published in hardcover by Rinehart and went through at least two printings in paperback from Bantam (my copy is of the second). After that, as far as I know, Black and Delaney disappeared. Maybe Black is a pen name. I looked on the Thrilling Detective website and found no trace of either him or Delaney, but maybe I wasn't careful enough.Anyway, what about the book? Well, it sure has a complicated plot. Al Delaney works for a big detective agency, and he's called in when one of their clients, a bakery, wants to find out about four dead mice found in the dough. From there we get into an old crime, a dead man, a currently planned caper, and lots of tangled relationships. And a San Quentin Quail. That's what Delaney calls her, and this part of the book might make some readers these days a big squeamish. The SSQ is about fourteen, but she has a lot of appeal to adult men. And she's sexually active. She even appeals to Delaney. She's murdered fairly early on, and it's her murder that drives him through the rest of the plot. When it's finally all wrapped up, you might be like me, with your jaw dropped to the floor, or you might just go with it.
I liked the narration, and I even liked the complexity for a while. Then it all got away from me and veered over into the too-hard-to-believe. I'd read another book by black, though, if there was one.
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
My Way News - Sheriff Threatens Reporters With Jail: "SAN DIEGO, Texas (AP) - When the Duval County sheriff said he would lock up reporters from local newspapers if they kept 'interfering' in his business, no one took the threat lightly.
For 20 years, Sheriff Santiago Barrera Jr. had done what he pleased with no challenges to his reign. He decided who sat in his jail and when they were released. Sometimes it was before a judge got involved and other times it was after.
'I brought the sheriff's department from nothing to what it is right now,' said the 67-year-old Barrera."
For 20 years, Sheriff Santiago Barrera Jr. had done what he pleased with no challenges to his reign. He decided who sat in his jail and when they were released. Sometimes it was before a judge got involved and other times it was after.
'I brought the sheriff's department from nothing to what it is right now,' said the 67-year-old Barrera."
Gator Update (Hang 'Em High! Edition)
Top Stories - Vandals Trash Alligator Farm: "ST. AUGUSTINE, FL -- Investigators are looking for three people caught on tape vandalizing the Alligator Farm in St. Augustine.
The director of the farm says the vandalism happened sometime Tuesday between 11 p.m. and midnight.
Surveillance video shows three people, possibly boys in their late teens, entering the farm."
Update: They caught 'em.
The director of the farm says the vandalism happened sometime Tuesday between 11 p.m. and midnight.
Surveillance video shows three people, possibly boys in their late teens, entering the farm."
Update: They caught 'em.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
I Suspect Juri Was Involved
Yes, I'd like to renew this, please... - Yahoo! News: "HELSINKI (Reuters) - A Finnish library-goer apparently thought 'better late than never' and quietly returned a book on loan for more than 100 years to a library in Vantaa, in southern Finland.
The library had long since lost track of the loan but welcomed back to its collections the bound copy of a 1902 volume of Vartija, an active religious monthly periodical at the time.
'We are unclear when exactly it was borrowed and who returned it. There weren't any documents with it,' librarian Minna Saastamoinen told Reuters.
'There is an old note attached to the book which says there is a fine of 10 pennies a week for late returns,' she added.
The library sticker inside the cover, and the old-fashioned handwriting on it, showed the book was last officially loaned out at the beginning of the last century, she said."
The library had long since lost track of the loan but welcomed back to its collections the bound copy of a 1902 volume of Vartija, an active religious monthly periodical at the time.
'We are unclear when exactly it was borrowed and who returned it. There weren't any documents with it,' librarian Minna Saastamoinen told Reuters.
'There is an old note attached to the book which says there is a fine of 10 pennies a week for late returns,' she added.
The library sticker inside the cover, and the old-fashioned handwriting on it, showed the book was last officially loaned out at the beginning of the last century, she said."
There Are No Losers Here Tonight, Folks
Today I read in an unimpeachable source that until 1989, Oscar presenters had always opened the envelope and said, "And the winner is . . . ." In that year, however, someone pointed out that calling one of the nominees a winner implied that the others were, well, losers. So from that day forward, Oscar presenters have said, "And the Oscar goes to . . . ."
Of course, as we all know, it's an honor just to be nominated.
Of course, as we all know, it's an honor just to be nominated.
Gator Update (Photo Edition)
Henry and Mary Ann Melton have been traveling again, and they stopped for Mary Ann to get some nice gator photos. Check 'em out.
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
The Associated Press: Legislative Aide Quits Over Phone Fakery: "AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — A veteran legislative aide to a Texas state senator has resigned over allegations that he impersonated a state representative and a newspaper reporter in politically motivated schemes.
Todd Gallaher, who worked for state Sen. Bob Deuell, resigned Monday after acknowledging he had called an ethics watchdog and identified himself as a reporter, asking about an ethics complaint the watchdog had filed against the Republican lawmaker.
Gallaher already had been on leave since February, when he admitted to Deuell that he had used an e-mail address that appeared to belong to a Democratic lawmaker to send out embarrassing 20-year-old photos of a South Texas sheriff who was up for re-election."
Todd Gallaher, who worked for state Sen. Bob Deuell, resigned Monday after acknowledging he had called an ethics watchdog and identified himself as a reporter, asking about an ethics complaint the watchdog had filed against the Republican lawmaker.
Gallaher already had been on leave since February, when he admitted to Deuell that he had used an e-mail address that appeared to belong to a Democratic lawmaker to send out embarrassing 20-year-old photos of a South Texas sheriff who was up for re-election."
TV Sweeps
You know how during Sweeps Month your stations all turn to news stories of housewife hookers and such? Well, here's a pretty funny parody of the promos for those news shows.
Link via Mike McGruff.
Link via Mike McGruff.
Croc Update (Interview Edition)
This is a great piece. Highly recommended for croc fans.
Adam Britton interview - Den of Geek: "Want a crocodile in your movie? Then you need to call Adam Britton. That's what the makers of Black Water did...
'They wanted the crocodile to leap out of the water, into a boat, and chase someone out of the boat and then jump out the other side. And obviously we said well, it's the kind of thing that's actually not that difficult to do'
Adam Britton left England for Australia to study crocodiles, and in the process, became a stop-off point for any movie and TV companies looking for quality croc footage in their features. He spared some time - via a mobile phone call to Australia that we suspect has cost us thousands - to tell us more..."
Adam Britton interview - Den of Geek: "Want a crocodile in your movie? Then you need to call Adam Britton. That's what the makers of Black Water did...
'They wanted the crocodile to leap out of the water, into a boat, and chase someone out of the boat and then jump out the other side. And obviously we said well, it's the kind of thing that's actually not that difficult to do'
Adam Britton left England for Australia to study crocodiles, and in the process, became a stop-off point for any movie and TV companies looking for quality croc footage in their features. He spared some time - via a mobile phone call to Australia that we suspect has cost us thousands - to tell us more..."
Don't Bogart that Joint, Gilligan
Mary Ann from Gilligan's Island busted for pot in Idaho | KTVB.COM | Idaho News: "A surprise birthday party for Dawn Wells, the actress who played Mary Ann on 'Gilligan's Island,' ended with a nearly three-hour tour of the Teton County Sheriff's Office and jail when the 69-year-old was caught with marijuana in her vehicle while driving home.
Wells is now serving six months' unsupervised probation for the crime. She was sentenced Feb. 29 to five days in jail, fined $410.50 and placed on probation after pleading guilty to one count of reckless driving."
Wells is now serving six months' unsupervised probation for the crime. She was sentenced Feb. 29 to five days in jail, fined $410.50 and placed on probation after pleading guilty to one count of reckless driving."
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
U.S. Bowling Congress leaves Milwaukee for Texas - Examiner.com: "MILWAUKEE (Map, News) - Milwaukee's attempts to keep its bowling heritage appear to have gone into the gutter.
The United States Bowling Congress, bowling's governing body, has decided to move its headquarters from suburban Milwaukee to Arlington, Texas. The group, which has more than 2.5 million members, had been in Milwaukee for more than 100 years."
The United States Bowling Congress, bowling's governing body, has decided to move its headquarters from suburban Milwaukee to Arlington, Texas. The group, which has more than 2.5 million members, had been in Milwaukee for more than 100 years."
Gator Update (Egg Hunt Edition)
A great idea. More states should adopt it.
Newspaper - Leland, NC - Leland, North Carolina - Brunswick County - Lifestyle - Recreation - Entertainment: "KURE BEACH – The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher invites 3- to ten-year-olds to participate in its 7th annual Alligator Egg Hunt on Mar. 22. The program includes candy, prizes and fun ways to learn about alligators.
Participants will make their own alligator egg baskets, handle alligator skulls and teeth and get a close-up look at a live ‘gator hatchling. The event culminates in the aquarium’s memorial garden with a search for hidden “alligator eggs.”"
Newspaper - Leland, NC - Leland, North Carolina - Brunswick County - Lifestyle - Recreation - Entertainment: "KURE BEACH – The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher invites 3- to ten-year-olds to participate in its 7th annual Alligator Egg Hunt on Mar. 22. The program includes candy, prizes and fun ways to learn about alligators.
Participants will make their own alligator egg baskets, handle alligator skulls and teeth and get a close-up look at a live ‘gator hatchling. The event culminates in the aquarium’s memorial garden with a search for hidden “alligator eggs.”"
Ice Axe Update
BBC NEWS | England | Norfolk | Ice Age axes found in North Sea: "Axes from the Ice Age used by mammoth hunters when the North Sea was dry have been found from under the water off the Norfolk coast.
Dutch amateur archaeologist Jan Meulmeester found the 100,000-year-old hand axes in gravel dredged from eight miles (13km) off Great Yarmouth.
Bones and teeth were also found along with the 28 axes.
Man used to roam the area now covered by the North Sea using flint tools to butcher animals such as mammoths."
Dutch amateur archaeologist Jan Meulmeester found the 100,000-year-old hand axes in gravel dredged from eight miles (13km) off Great Yarmouth.
Bones and teeth were also found along with the 28 axes.
Man used to roam the area now covered by the North Sea using flint tools to butcher animals such as mammoths."
I'm Crushed
But I love the guy's initials.
Celebrity gossip on Now Magazine: "Paris Hilton has sparked speculation she's engaged after she was snapped with a ring on her third finger, left hand.
The heiress has been dating Good Charlotte rocker Benji Madden for only a month.
But at the Grand Opening of the Kim Vo Salon in Las Vegas on Friday, she proudly displayed the diamond-encrusted ring with the initials BM."
Celebrity gossip on Now Magazine: "Paris Hilton has sparked speculation she's engaged after she was snapped with a ring on her third finger, left hand.
The heiress has been dating Good Charlotte rocker Benji Madden for only a month.
But at the Grand Opening of the Kim Vo Salon in Las Vegas on Friday, she proudly displayed the diamond-encrusted ring with the initials BM."
Monday, March 10, 2008
Sordid Lives
Judy and I sat down on Sunday and watched a movie for the first time in more than a month. This one had arrived from Netflix and had been sitting on the kitchen table since February 8. Wouldn't you know it would be about the effects that the death of a mother has on her family?Turns out that didn't bother us, though. The movie's very funny, very much in the vein of Greater Tuna and the sequels, with the same kind of quirky characters and some great lines. In fact, the transvestite, Brother Boy, seems to have studied the Tuna guys with avid intensity.
I looked up the movie in the Wikipedia just for kicks and discovered that it's a cult fave with the LGBT crowd, especially in the South. It's easy to see why.
The tag on the poster ("A Black Comedy about White Trash") doesn't really cover it, but it's close enough. If you like that kind of thing, this is the kind of thing you'll like. Quite a few people must like it because it's going to become a TV series this summer.
Whatever Lola Wants . . .
Dierker musical to have 2 free readings | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "While most people know Larry Dierker as a former Houston Astros pitcher and manager and two-time All-Star, he's also (as most may not know), the author of a new musical, his first.
Drawing on his four decades in baseball, Dierker has written the book and lyrics for Old Stories, which depicts the fictitious 1970 Washington Capitols and their star right fielder Arthur 'King' Cole. While his team is making a run for the National League pennant, Cole is fielding problems with a new love and declining career.
Houston pianist/composer Paul English has written the music."
Drawing on his four decades in baseball, Dierker has written the book and lyrics for Old Stories, which depicts the fictitious 1970 Washington Capitols and their star right fielder Arthur 'King' Cole. While his team is making a run for the National League pennant, Cole is fielding problems with a new love and declining career.
Houston pianist/composer Paul English has written the music."
The Return of The Saint
The Saint is coming back to TV - TV Squad: "The Saint is rising again. The venerable character, who was created by writer Leslie Chareris in novels in the 1920's, will be back on television in a contemporary setting, and actor James Purefoy (Rome) has been in talks to play Simon Templar, the suave, British 'good guy' thief. Aside from Purefoy, the Hollywood Reporter writes that the production team includes first class talent: Homicide's Barry Levinson and Tom Fontana (Oz), writer Jorge Zamacona, Bill Macdonald, and the original TV Saint himself, Roger Moore, and his son Geoffrey Moore."
Not That There's Anything Wrong with That
::: The NEW Voice of New Orleans ::: 995fm.com :::: "New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin says he is 'a vagina-friendly Mayor.'
Nagin made the remark while welcoming the author of the Vagina Monlogues, Eve Ensler to the city to promote the 'V-Day' celebration in New Orleans next month."
Nagin made the remark while welcoming the author of the Vagina Monlogues, Eve Ensler to the city to promote the 'V-Day' celebration in New Orleans next month."
Ned Kelly Update
Outlaw Ned Kelly's remains 'found' - Telegraph: "Australian archeologists said they believe that they have found the grave of Ned Kelly, the notorious bushranger who was captured by police troopers in 1880.
He was brought down in a hail of bullets with shots to his legs, arms and groin, which his home-made suit of armour had left unprotected.
The son of an Irish convict, Kelly was hanged at Old Melbourne Jail in 1880, but documents show his remains and those of 32 other executed prisoners were exhumed and reburied at"
He was brought down in a hail of bullets with shots to his legs, arms and groin, which his home-made suit of armour had left unprotected.
The son of an Irish convict, Kelly was hanged at Old Melbourne Jail in 1880, but documents show his remains and those of 32 other executed prisoners were exhumed and reburied at"
Inquiring Minds Want to Know
Hat tip to TechBlog.
Amazon: What are you hiding? | Computerworld Blogs: "Now, it's March, 2008, and Amazon is still stubbornly hiding the most basic facts about the Kindle while trying at the same time to paint a picture of success based entirely on the very facts it conceals. For example: How many Kindles has Amazon sold?"
Amazon: What are you hiding? | Computerworld Blogs: "Now, it's March, 2008, and Amazon is still stubbornly hiding the most basic facts about the Kindle while trying at the same time to paint a picture of success based entirely on the very facts it conceals. For example: How many Kindles has Amazon sold?"
Scott Cupp Has a Web Page
And there's a link to his latest story, "Johnny Cannabis and Tony, the Purple Paisley (Sometimes) Colored Lab Rat." Check it out.
The Greatest Living Sci-Fi Short Story Writer in San Antonio, TX | Scott A. Cupp: "Welcome to the website of Scott A. Cupp, your guide to the world of the weird tomorrow, the odd today and the abnormal yesterday. We will strive to show you the ins and outs of Scott's mind. (Even though it has been banned by the Good Taste League.) So get your tourbooks ready and start your audio player when you see the stoned rat. It's going to be a wild ride."
The Greatest Living Sci-Fi Short Story Writer in San Antonio, TX | Scott A. Cupp: "Welcome to the website of Scott A. Cupp, your guide to the world of the weird tomorrow, the odd today and the abnormal yesterday. We will strive to show you the ins and outs of Scott's mind. (Even though it has been banned by the Good Taste League.) So get your tourbooks ready and start your audio player when you see the stoned rat. It's going to be a wild ride."
No Comment Department
Kentucky Lawmaker Wants to Make Anonymous Internet Posting Illegal - Video - WTVQ 36 - Lexington, Kentucky: "Kentucky Representative Tim Couch filed a bill this week to make anonymous posting online illegal.
The bill would require anyone who contributes to a website to register their real name, address and e-mail address with that site.
Their full name would be used anytime a comment is posted.
If the bill becomes law, the website operator would have to pay if someone was allowed to post anonymously on their site. The fine would be five-hundred dollars for a first offense and one-thousand dollars for each offense after that."
The bill would require anyone who contributes to a website to register their real name, address and e-mail address with that site.
Their full name would be used anytime a comment is posted.
If the bill becomes law, the website operator would have to pay if someone was allowed to post anonymously on their site. The fine would be five-hundred dollars for a first offense and one-thousand dollars for each offense after that."
Sunday, March 09, 2008
The Sword-Edged Blonde -- Alex Bledsoe
If you're looking for a solid mystery/fantasy crossover, you could do worse than The Sword-Edged Blonde. The book started off a bit slowly for me. Maybe it was the fact that the opening violated one of Elmore Leonard's rules about beginning with the weather. Or maybe it was the fact that the first episode doesn't have much, if anything, to do with the rest of the novel. But when the story gets rolling, it works just fine.Eddie LaCrosse has sword, will travel, but he's not eager to go to work for his former best friend, who's now a king. If he takes the job, Eddie will have to confront an unpleasant event from his past, one that he's never told the truth about to anyone. However, the king is the one person Eddie can't turn down, so he takes the case. After that, we get a mystery plot that works pretty well, a fantasy setting that's not overly heavy with magic and wizardry, the streetwise atmosphere of a good hardboiled novel with some of the trappings of noir, a narrator with an engaging voice, plenty of action, and a satisfactory resolution. Good stuff. Check it out.
Darrell Awards
I just read on Henry Melton's blog that his Emperor Dad is up for a Darrell Award at MidSouthCon. I enjoyed the book, and I hope Henry scores.
No More Spotted Dick?
British home-cooking 'is becoming extinct' - Telegraph: "Traditional British dishes such as toad in the hole and spotted dick could disappear from dining tables by 2021 as households increasingly turn to foreign cuisine, it has been claimed.
New research shows that Britons rarely make dishes such as steak and kidney pie or jam roly-poly from scratch any more, and are far more likely to cook curries and pasta meals from recipes."
New research shows that Britons rarely make dishes such as steak and kidney pie or jam roly-poly from scratch any more, and are far more likely to cook curries and pasta meals from recipes."
Happy Birthday, Mickey Spillane!
I wish he were here to celebrate.The Writer's Almanac from American Public Media: "It's the birthday of crime novelist Mickey Spillane, (books by this author) the pen name of Frank Morrison, born in Brooklyn, New York (1918). He spent his childhood defending himself as the only Irish boy in a tough Polish neighborhood. His father worked in a hardware store, and it was there that Spillane saw a typewriter for the first time. He later said, 'I would type on it. ... I loved the sound it made ... [and] I knew I was going to be a writer.'
As a high school student, he wrote for a local newspaper, and he covered bootlegging scams and other criminal activity. He would make carbon copies of the newspaper stories and turn one copy in as a writing assignment for school and get paid for the other. In 1940, he got a job as a scripter of comic books for Funnies, Inc. Other writers required a week to produce a Captain Marvel story while Spillane could write one in a day."
Lost and Gilligan: a Comparison
Six Original And Creative Coincidences Between Lost and Gilligan's Island: "Lost and Gilligan's Island are more alike than you might think. Sure, they both are shows about people being stranded and forced to live on an Island (don't even get me started on the �it is a peninsula� ending) but it goes much deeper than that. The creators of Lost must have watched and dissected every episode of good ole Gilligan's isle and took the craziest parts from it to use in their new show. Here are just a few examples.
WARNING: If you are not caught up on Lost (as of this writing Season 4, episode 6) or Gilligan's Island (as of this writing, most of the original cast is dead) then do NOT read further."
WARNING: If you are not caught up on Lost (as of this writing Season 4, episode 6) or Gilligan's Island (as of this writing, most of the original cast is dead) then do NOT read further."
Saturday, March 08, 2008
They're Baaaaaaack!
Photo at the link.
ABC News: Bird Long Believed Extinct Found Alive: "A pale-bellied bird species last seen in the 1920s and long thought to be extinct has been rediscovered near Papua New Guinea. The Beck's petrel was photographed last summer by an Israeli ornithologist in the Bismarck Archipelago, a group of islands northeast of Papua New Guinea."
ABC News: Bird Long Believed Extinct Found Alive: "A pale-bellied bird species last seen in the 1920s and long thought to be extinct has been rediscovered near Papua New Guinea. The Beck's petrel was photographed last summer by an Israeli ornithologist in the Bismarck Archipelago, a group of islands northeast of Papua New Guinea."
Keep off this Guy's Flooring!
I have a 30ft catapult filled with chicken droppings – and I’m not afraid to use it - Times Online: "The headquarters of Joe Weston-Webb’s portable flooring empire is protected by security fencing, motion-sensor lights and CCTV cameras.
None of these conventional measures has deterred arsonists, however, and in desperation, Mr Weston-Webb has now fortified his defences with less orthodox technology left over from his time as a travelling showman.
A 30ft Roman catapult, loaded with chicken droppings from a nearby farm is primed each evening. And a cannon, which Mr Weston-Webb once used to shoot his wife across the River Avon, will fire a railway sleeper if triggered by an intruder."
None of these conventional measures has deterred arsonists, however, and in desperation, Mr Weston-Webb has now fortified his defences with less orthodox technology left over from his time as a travelling showman.
A 30ft Roman catapult, loaded with chicken droppings from a nearby farm is primed each evening. And a cannon, which Mr Weston-Webb once used to shoot his wife across the River Avon, will fire a railway sleeper if triggered by an intruder."
I Miss the Old Days
I just heard on the radio that it was this week in 1956 that Dwight Eisenhower announced he'd run for a second term. I really do hate the current system of picking candidates. I've received at least one phone call a day from Hillary's campaign for the last three weeks or more. Very annoying.
Come One, Come All
I'd almost forgotten about this. I have a signing today at 4:30 at Murder by the Book in Houston. If you're in the neighborhood, stop by.
Happy Birthday, Leslie Fiedler!
The Writer's Almanac from American Public Media: "It's the birthday of the literary critic Leslie Fiedler, (books by this author) born in Newark, New Jersey (1917). He's best known for his book Love and Death in the American Novel (1960). He believed that the great theme of American literature was the search for identity. He said, 'Americans have no real identity. We're all ... uprooted people who come from elsewhere.'"
Gator Update: Could Alcohol Have Been Involved?
Naked Man Found Stalking Alligator - Orlando News Story - WKMG Orlando: "POLK COUNTY, Fla. -- A man who was rescued from the jaws of an alligator by deputies two years ago was taken into custody after officers spotted him naked and apparently stalking an alligator, according to a sheriff's report."
Lost and Gilligan: a Comparison
Six Original And Creative Coincidences Between Lost and Gilligan's Island: "Lost and Gilligan's Island are more alike than you might think. Sure, they both are shows about people being stranded and forced to live on an Island (don't even get me started on the �it is a peninsula� ending) but it goes much deeper than that. The creators of Lost must have watched and dissected every episode of good ole Gilligan's isle and took the craziest parts from it to use in their new show. Here are just a few examples.
WARNING: If you are not caught up on Lost (as of this writing Season 4, episode 6) or Gilligan's Island (as of this writing, most of the original cast is dead) then do NOT read further."
WARNING: If you are not caught up on Lost (as of this writing Season 4, episode 6) or Gilligan's Island (as of this writing, most of the original cast is dead) then do NOT read further."
Long, Long Ago . . .
. . . before most of you were born, I read a book of short stories by Jack Finney. The title was The Third Level, and I still remember a number of the stories vividly. In fact, I bought another copy of the book several years ago and re-read some of them. Steve Steinbock, over at Criminal Brief, pointed me to this website, where you can read "The Third Level" and a bunch of other Finney Stories. If you've never read any of them, you're in for a real treat.
Friday, March 07, 2008
Croc Update (Vacation Edition)
Time for a trip to Belize. Have fun and save a croc.
Plenty Magazine - Environmental News and Commentary: "Tourists may go on Lamanai Outpost Lodge’s “Crocodile Encounter” for the thrill of watching guides spot, wrestle, and tag the river-dwelling reptiles in their natural habitat. But what many visitors don’t know is that the guides are also researchers, and profits from the adventure fund an ongoing project.
For the past five years, residents from Lamanai and scientists from the University of Florida have been tracking and monitoring the formerly endangered Morelet’s crocodiles. The mainly freshwater reptiles measure up to 14 feet, and are only found in Belize, Guatemala, and parts of Mexico. Researchers hope that the data they acquire will uncover more information about the creature, which scientists know little about."
Plenty Magazine - Environmental News and Commentary: "Tourists may go on Lamanai Outpost Lodge’s “Crocodile Encounter” for the thrill of watching guides spot, wrestle, and tag the river-dwelling reptiles in their natural habitat. But what many visitors don’t know is that the guides are also researchers, and profits from the adventure fund an ongoing project.
For the past five years, residents from Lamanai and scientists from the University of Florida have been tracking and monitoring the formerly endangered Morelet’s crocodiles. The mainly freshwater reptiles measure up to 14 feet, and are only found in Belize, Guatemala, and parts of Mexico. Researchers hope that the data they acquire will uncover more information about the creature, which scientists know little about."
Snow
In Central Texas. In March. Hard to believe, and I'm pretty sure it's something I haven't seen in my lifetime. Not deep, but a nice covering on the ground and trees. I have a crummy little camera here, but no USB cord to hook it to the computer. I'll post some pictures later. We're leaving for Alvin around noon, and we'll be trying to get our lives back to what we call normal over the next few weeks. The last nine months or so have been a little discombobulating, and we'd sure like a few weeks with no surprises of any kind, especially bad ones.
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Hat tip to Evil J Winter.
Farmers helper: the flying cockroach - Yahoo! News: "LUBBOCK, Texas - Loathed by homeowner and restaurateur, the lowly cockroach is gaining some respect in the agricultural community.
Researchers in South Texas are beginning to sing the praises of a flying cockroach from Asia that has shown a voracious appetite for pests that plague farmers. They concede, however, that most people would still be revolted at the sight of the helpful predator."
Farmers helper: the flying cockroach - Yahoo! News: "LUBBOCK, Texas - Loathed by homeowner and restaurateur, the lowly cockroach is gaining some respect in the agricultural community.
Researchers in South Texas are beginning to sing the praises of a flying cockroach from Asia that has shown a voracious appetite for pests that plague farmers. They concede, however, that most people would still be revolted at the sight of the helpful predator."
Thursday, March 06, 2008
A Funeral
This afternoon we held the funeral for Pet Stutts, Judy's mother. First, of course, there was the big lunch provided by the members of the church. Fried chicken, meatloaf, ham, macaroni and cheese, casseroles, and desserts galore.
After lunch came the service, which was better than I'd expected. Quite nice, in fact. Pet had requested on song, "Sunrise," and she wanted it sung by John Nance, who sang at Judy's and my wedding. John's quit singing as he got older, so the pianist played the song. (John was at the funeral, sitting on the front row.)
The weather was terrible, in the 40s with high winds and drenching rain. Not so bad for the service in the church, but the graveside was another story. I felt sorry for the pallbearers, who had to carry the casket quite a distance. I felt sorry for the rest of us, too, because we had to make that same trip, though not loaded down. Everyone under the tent was cold, wet, and probably miserable, but preacher didn't dilly-dally. He read a couple of verses and sent us on our way.
It's been odd to stay in Pet's house without her. Eerie, even. And it's tough to think she'll never be here again to fix fried steak and black-eyed peas for us when we visit.
As long as Pet was alive, I could tell myself that I wasn't part of the oldest generation in the family. I can tell myself that now, but I'll know it's a lie. The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down . . . .
After lunch came the service, which was better than I'd expected. Quite nice, in fact. Pet had requested on song, "Sunrise," and she wanted it sung by John Nance, who sang at Judy's and my wedding. John's quit singing as he got older, so the pianist played the song. (John was at the funeral, sitting on the front row.)
The weather was terrible, in the 40s with high winds and drenching rain. Not so bad for the service in the church, but the graveside was another story. I felt sorry for the pallbearers, who had to carry the casket quite a distance. I felt sorry for the rest of us, too, because we had to make that same trip, though not loaded down. Everyone under the tent was cold, wet, and probably miserable, but preacher didn't dilly-dally. He read a couple of verses and sent us on our way.
It's been odd to stay in Pet's house without her. Eerie, even. And it's tough to think she'll never be here again to fix fried steak and black-eyed peas for us when we visit.
As long as Pet was alive, I could tell myself that I wasn't part of the oldest generation in the family. I can tell myself that now, but I'll know it's a lie. The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down . . . .
Croc Update (Bird Trap Edition)
While Scooter the Wayward Crocodile might not be a great name for a rock band, it would be a pretty good name for a kids' book.
Elusive croc ends up in bird trap | NEWS.com.au: "SCOOTER the wayward crocodile has surprised scientists by turning up inside a cage used to trap wild birds in north Queensland.
The 1.8m long saltwater crocodile earned his name after eluding professional trappers.
But scientists from James Cook University were shocked to find him while checking whether birds at a wildlife sanctuary near Townsville had avian influenza."
Elusive croc ends up in bird trap | NEWS.com.au: "SCOOTER the wayward crocodile has surprised scientists by turning up inside a cage used to trap wild birds in north Queensland.
The 1.8m long saltwater crocodile earned his name after eluding professional trappers.
But scientists from James Cook University were shocked to find him while checking whether birds at a wildlife sanctuary near Townsville had avian influenza."
Do You Feel Lucky, Punk?
Flying Off the Shelves - Books - The Stranger, Seattle's Only Newspaper: "In my eight years working at an independent bookstore, I lost count of how many shoplifters I chased through the streets of Seattle while shouting 'Drop the book!' I chased them down crowded pedestrian plazas in the afternoon, I chased them through alleys at night, I even chased one into a train tunnel. I chased a book thief to the waterfront, where he shouted, 'Here are your fucking books!' and threw a half-dozen paperbacks, including Bomb the Suburbs and A People's History of the United States, into Puget Sound, preferring to watch them slowly sink into the muck rather than hand them back to the bookseller they were stolen from. He had that ferocious, orgasmic gleam in his eye of somebody who was living in the climax of his own movie: I suppose he felt like he was liberating them somehow."
Croc Update (Don't Pose with a Croc Edition)
Nice photo at the link.
Crocodile attack a snap he won't forget | Herald Sun: "THIS huge crocodile came within 1m of making a meal of a fisherman on a Northern Territory river. The croc came alongside the small boat -- probably looking for a free feed of fish -- and suddenly exploded out of the water.
It almost sank its teeth into Novon Mashiah, 27, who was leaning over the back of the dinghy posing for a photo.
The crocodile, estimated to be more than 4m long, landed on the side of the boat then crashed back into the water.
'I was shocked -- the animal clearly wanted to kill me,' Mr Mashiah said."
Crocodile attack a snap he won't forget | Herald Sun: "THIS huge crocodile came within 1m of making a meal of a fisherman on a Northern Territory river. The croc came alongside the small boat -- probably looking for a free feed of fish -- and suddenly exploded out of the water.
It almost sank its teeth into Novon Mashiah, 27, who was leaning over the back of the dinghy posing for a photo.
The crocodile, estimated to be more than 4m long, landed on the side of the boat then crashed back into the water.
'I was shocked -- the animal clearly wanted to kill me,' Mr Mashiah said."
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Happy Birthday, Frank Norris!
I was reminded of this birthday by Bill Peschel's Reader's Almanac. Why does it matter to me? Because at one time I was enamored by Norris's novels. Certainly McTeague is one of the earliest American noirs, and I enjoyed the pulpy sea story Moran of the Lady Letty tremendously. The Octopus is a fine muckraking tale, and one of Norris's books, The Pit, even inspired a popular card game. Long ago, when such things had to be chiseled on stone, I wrote my MA thesis on Norris's work. Those were the days!
The Scots are Scary
Latest find at ex-children's home may be more human remains - Scotsman.com News: "The news came after the first picture of a 'punishment room' at the former home was released, revealing a haunting message. On a wooden post against the wall of a secret chamber under the building was written: 'I've been bad for years and years.'"
Update from Al (Sunshine) Guthrie:
Bill,
The Scots may indeed be scary (thank you!), but the article you've linked to about the remains found in the children's home in Jersey is entirely absent of Scots.
http://jersey.com/wij/wij_en.htm
Ahem.
Al
Update from Al (Sunshine) Guthrie:
Bill,
The Scots may indeed be scary (thank you!), but the article you've linked to about the remains found in the children's home in Jersey is entirely absent of Scots.
http://jersey.com/wij/wij_en.htm
Ahem.
Al
Gary Gygax, R. I. P.
Gary Gygax, Game Pioneer, Dies at 69 - New York Times: "Gary Gygax, a pioneer of the imagination who transported a fantasy realm of wizards, goblins and elves onto millions of kitchen tables around the world through the game he helped create, Dungeons & Dragons, died Tuesday at his home in Lake Geneva, Wis. He was 69."
Dang.
National Grammar Day: Do you adore clean, correct sentences? Do ungrammatical advertisements make you cringe? We understand completely, and this is why the Society for the Promotion of Good Grammar and MSN Encarta have designated March 4, 2008 as National Grammar Day.
As usual, I'm a day late for the big celebration.
As usual, I'm a day late for the big celebration.
Gator Update (Tough Guy Edition)
Man drives to hospital after alligator attack -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel.com: "WESTON - A man drove himself to the hospital shortly after a seven-foot alligator he was handling bit him on the hand Tuesday afternoon, the Broward Sheriff's Office said.
Authorities say the man was trying to move the large reptile inside the Big Cypress Reservation when the animal bit him. The man, said to be 38 years old, then got in his car and drove himself to the Cleveland Clinic Hospital in Weston, the Sheriff's Office said."
Authorities say the man was trying to move the large reptile inside the Big Cypress Reservation when the animal bit him. The man, said to be 38 years old, then got in his car and drove himself to the Cleveland Clinic Hospital in Weston, the Sheriff's Office said."
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Another One
Author admits acclaimed memoir is fantasy - International Herald Tribune: "In 'Love and Consequences,' a critically acclaimed memoir published last week, Margaret B. Jones wrote about her life as a half-white, half-Native American girl growing up in South-Central Los Angeles as a foster child among gang-bangers, running drugs for the Bloods.
The problem is that none of it is true.
Margaret B. Jones is a pseudonym for Margaret Seltzer, who is all white and grew up in the well-to-do Sherman Oaks section of Los Angeles, in the San Fernando Valley, with her biological family. She graduated from the Campbell Hall School, a private Episcopal day school in the North Hollywood neighborhood. She has never lived with a foster family, nor did she run drugs for any gang members. Nor did she graduate from the University of Oregon, as she had claimed."
The problem is that none of it is true.
Margaret B. Jones is a pseudonym for Margaret Seltzer, who is all white and grew up in the well-to-do Sherman Oaks section of Los Angeles, in the San Fernando Valley, with her biological family. She graduated from the Campbell Hall School, a private Episcopal day school in the North Hollywood neighborhood. She has never lived with a foster family, nor did she run drugs for any gang members. Nor did she graduate from the University of Oregon, as she had claimed."
Zelma Mozelle (Pet) Stutts, R. I. P.
Judy's mother was born on September 16, 1912. She passed away last night. She lived all her life in a little town whose population was probably never more than 700 people. She loved her church, and she loved working in her yard. Even at age 95 she still lived independently, drove 20 miles to the store, mowed her lawn, raked her leaves, and kept the cleanest house in Texas. You've heard of houses where you could eat off the floor? You could eat off the floor of Pet's garage! She was as nice a person as I've ever known, and we're going to miss her terribly.
I'll probably be off-line for a while.
I'll probably be off-line for a while.
Crimespot
Crimespot is about to take down the widget that allows you to contribute to the United Way. If you want to make a donation, now's the time to click on through and do it.
Monday, March 03, 2008
I'm Not a Subscriber
But there's a photo at the link, for which thanks go to the alert John Duke.
Paris Hilton Poses Topless For 944 Magazine: "Paris Hilton has posed topless for the February issue of 944 magazine. The socialite is featured wearing only Calvin Klein underwear and a hat."
Paris Hilton Poses Topless For 944 Magazine: "Paris Hilton has posed topless for the February issue of 944 magazine. The socialite is featured wearing only Calvin Klein underwear and a hat."
He Can't Prove a Thing!
Jayme Lynn Blaschke has a nice photo of Kasey Lansdale and another one of some guy filming something or other. But not filming Kasey's performance. No way.
Best Setting for a Novel You'll Find Today
In 'Gibtown,' Life Is A Carnival
GIBSONTON - In the carnival capital of the world, a clown rides to Wal-Mart on a tricycle.
Ferris wheels rise out of backyards.
Cotton candy booths line the streets. Bags of stuffed animals spill into a trailer park.
For generations, carnies have wintered in Gibsonton, called "Gibtown," in south Hillsborough County.
They eat and drink at the Showtown Bar & Grill. For business, they visit the annual trade show of the Showmen's Association.
When they die, they wind up in a local mausoleum called Showmen's Rest.
Bid Early and Often
Scarlett Johansson offers one lucky man the chance to spend a night with her - Sunday Mirror: "Scarlett Johansson is offering one lucky man the chance to spend a night with her.
The date of a lifetime will be auctioned on eBay from tomorrow with money raised going to Oxfam.
The highest bidder will get up close and personal with Scarlett, 23, at the premiere of her film He's Just Not That Into You in Los Angeles next June."
The date of a lifetime will be auctioned on eBay from tomorrow with money raised going to Oxfam.
The highest bidder will get up close and personal with Scarlett, 23, at the premiere of her film He's Just Not That Into You in Los Angeles next June."
Wisconsin is Tough on Lawbreakers
Woman Jailed For Failing To Return Books - News Story - WISC Madison: "BELOIT, Wis. -- In Beloit, failing to return overdue library books is apparently a serious offense. It landed Keely Givhan behind bars for six days.
Beloit Public Library director Dan Zack said when books aren't returned, the library sends three overdue notices. After the third notice, a citation is sent that could include court date.
Givhan said she was in the process of moving so she never got the notices.
When a police officer pulled her over for a traffic violation in November, the officer found out about her outstanding warrant and took her to jail.
She and her family couldn't afford to pay her fine so she remained in jail for six days."
Beloit Public Library director Dan Zack said when books aren't returned, the library sends three overdue notices. After the third notice, a citation is sent that could include court date.
Givhan said she was in the process of moving so she never got the notices.
When a police officer pulled her over for a traffic violation in November, the officer found out about her outstanding warrant and took her to jail.
She and her family couldn't afford to pay her fine so she remained in jail for six days."
Sunday, March 02, 2008
Conan and the Songs of the Dead -- Joe Lansdale and Timothy Truman
Since this was Joe Lansdale's take on Conan, with artwork by Timothy Truman, I was naturally expecting a new vision of the barbarian, with cuddly kitty cats, pink unicorns, maybe some pocket dragons.Hahahaha! Just kidding. I was expecting violence, gore, sex, and some humor. I got it all. Heads roll (I didn't bother to count, but then I didn't bother to count the number of synonyms for "pig's dick," either), Conan gets it on with a djinn, there are battles galore (with monsters, humans, living dead, etc.), there's a quest, there's more.
Great artwork, fine storytelling, laughs, blood, sex. If that's not what you're looking for, Dark Horse has some excellent Little Lulu reprints you'd like. (Actually I like Little Lulu a lot, but that's another story.)
The Party's Over
The whole article is worth a look.
It's lights out for the Dick Tracy museum | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "WOODSTOCK, ILL. — A case had been building to close the Dick Tracy museum in Woodstock, and the clues were uglier than Flattop Jones.
The guest book hasn't been signed in weeks. The shelves are lined with unsold Dick Tracy pens, yellow fedoras and coffee mugs. And on a recent February morning, a broken furnace kept museum director Jim Johnson shivering until closing. Only a few visitors stopped by, one of them a repairman who got the heat turned back on.
With attendance plunging, museum officials have decided to close in June the 1,000-square-foot shrine to the comic strip detective and his creator — longtime Woodstock resident Chester Gould. The decision was difficult for Gould's daughter, Jean Gould O'Connell, who said her father's estate could not keep funding it."
It's lights out for the Dick Tracy museum | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "WOODSTOCK, ILL. — A case had been building to close the Dick Tracy museum in Woodstock, and the clues were uglier than Flattop Jones.
The guest book hasn't been signed in weeks. The shelves are lined with unsold Dick Tracy pens, yellow fedoras and coffee mugs. And on a recent February morning, a broken furnace kept museum director Jim Johnson shivering until closing. Only a few visitors stopped by, one of them a repairman who got the heat turned back on.
With attendance plunging, museum officials have decided to close in June the 1,000-square-foot shrine to the comic strip detective and his creator — longtime Woodstock resident Chester Gould. The decision was difficult for Gould's daughter, Jean Gould O'Connell, who said her father's estate could not keep funding it."
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