McDonald's invades Mona Lisa's lair, will open eatery inside Louvre: "Sacre bleu!
In a move guaranteed to wipe the famous smile off Mona Lisa's mug, McDonald's is planning to open an eatery inside France's great temple of culture: the Louvre museum.
The London Telegraph reported the restaurant will open next month in the underground shopping plaza beneath I.M. Pei's glass pyramid in the museum courtyard."
Hat tip to Patrick Bowles.
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Monday, October 05, 2009
Ummmmmmmm
Meet the 1,500-calorie 'Craz-E Burger': beef patty, bacon and cheese on Krispy Kreme donut: "The donut burger - a bacon cheeseburger with a buttered Krispy Kreme glazed donut standing in for a bun - is becoming a hit on the fair circuit and among some far-out foodies.
Amusingly, the heart-stopping sandwich was sold just outside the West Springfield agricultural fair's 'Better Living Center.'"
Artery-clogging photo at the link, which was provided by Art Scott.
Amusingly, the heart-stopping sandwich was sold just outside the West Springfield agricultural fair's 'Better Living Center.'"
Artery-clogging photo at the link, which was provided by Art Scott.
I'm Shocked
Supreme Court Strikes Down Case From Man Claiming to Be Elvis Presley's Son - Political News - FOXNews.com: "On its first day of a new term, the U.S. Supreme Court refused Monday to hear a case from a man claiming to be Elvis Presley's first-born son.
Jason Presley of West Valley City, Utah, who is suing for rights to the entire Presley family estate, had penned a petition to the high court asking for it to review his case -- full of wild accusations including an allegation that the famous singer was murdered in 1977 and did not die from a drug overdose."
Jason Presley of West Valley City, Utah, who is suing for rights to the entire Presley family estate, had penned a petition to the high court asking for it to review his case -- full of wild accusations including an allegation that the famous singer was murdered in 1977 and did not die from a drug overdose."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Religious group sued for allegedly inciting harm through prayers - On Deadline - USATODAY.com: "A former military lawyer who served in the Reagan White House is suing a Dallas-based religious group for allegedly inciting harm upon him through prayers, The Dallas Morning News reports.
The newspaper says the suit could test the limits of free speech and prayer."
The newspaper says the suit could test the limits of free speech and prayer."
I Don't Know Much about Art, . . .
The Press Association: Heap of dust on art prize shortlist: "A whale's skull, a heap of dust made up of the remains of a jet engine and a workman's naked backside are among the artworks featuring in a display by this year's shortlisted Turner Prize artists.
Roger Hiorns, Enrico David, Lucy Skaer and Richard Wright are the artists in the running for the award, which is worth €25,000 to the prize winner and €5,000 for each of those shortlisted.
Among the exhibits at Tate Britain is a heap of metal dust from an atomised passenger jet engine by Hiorns."
Roger Hiorns, Enrico David, Lucy Skaer and Richard Wright are the artists in the running for the award, which is worth €25,000 to the prize winner and €5,000 for each of those shortlisted.
Among the exhibits at Tate Britain is a heap of metal dust from an atomised passenger jet engine by Hiorns."
Wait, You Mean Somebody's Getting Freebies and Payments?
FTC: Bloggers must disclose payments for reviews - Yahoo! Finance: "The Federal Trade Commission will require bloggers to clearly disclose any freebies or payments they get from companies for reviewing their products."
And They Wonder Why Newspapers are Dying
Book tells you when you should do ... everything | Life | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "Or, as you’re holding a glass of wine, saddle up to someone new and dazzle them with this bit of trivia: Valentine’s Day is the only day of the year you can get married on top of the Empire State Building."
Italics are mine.
Italics are mine.
Happy Birthday, Monty Python's Flying Circus!
Is Monty Python's Flying Circus dead as a parrot? - Features, Comedy - The Independent: "It began with a shaggy, Ancient Mariner figure dragging himself along a seashore. Its jaunty credit sequence intertwined cartoon flowers and the photographed heads of Victorian grandees.
It introduced viewers to Arthur 'Two Sheds' Jackson and the Funniest Joke in the World – and it was the start of a five-year love affair between the British TV audience and a world of cosily surreal humour. Monty Python's Flying Circus first hit the airwaves 40 years ago, on 5 October, 1969."
It introduced viewers to Arthur 'Two Sheds' Jackson and the Funniest Joke in the World – and it was the start of a five-year love affair between the British TV audience and a world of cosily surreal humour. Monty Python's Flying Circus first hit the airwaves 40 years ago, on 5 October, 1969."
Land of the (Sort of) Free
New York City to Establish Surveillance Network in Midtown - NYTimes.com: "Asked Sunday about criticism of the increased surveillance, Mr. Bloomberg said: “We live in a world where we have to have a balance. We can’t just say everybody can go everyplace and do anything they want.”"
Soon to be a Movie on the SyFy Channel
Sheriff describes raccoon "gang attack" on Lakeland woman | 10connects.com | Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater: "A Lakeland woman is recovering from serious injuries in the hospital after sheriff's investigators say she was 'gang attacked' by five raccoons Saturday afternoon."
Alcohol Was Certainly Involved
Alleged assault prompts charges against local man - Carlsbad Current-Argus: "A man pleaded not guilty to three charges after allegedly punching two people, crashing his car into theirs, and telling police officers they couldn't tell him what to do, a criminal complaint stated.
'____ you pig, I don't have to do what you tell me,' Jeremy Rodgers, 28, of the 300 block of Russell Street, reportedly told a police officer when asked to go talk to another officer."
'____ you pig, I don't have to do what you tell me,' Jeremy Rodgers, 28, of the 300 block of Russell Street, reportedly told a police officer when asked to go talk to another officer."
Okay, Now the Recession is Getting Serious
Louisiana gator farming takes a hit as recession chokes off interest in luxury goods | New Orleans Business News - - NOLA.com: "Louisiana alligator farmers are struggling through their worst season in 25 years as the national recession chokes off sales of luxury items."
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Another Twilight Zone Tribute (with Sound Clips)
wbur.org � News � After 50 Years, ‘The Twilight Zone’ Still Knows What Scares Us: "A HALF CENTURY AGO, a young writer walked across an empty set and pitched a new idea to television advertisers.
“What you’re about to see, gentlemen, is a series called ‘The Twilight Zone’,” the young man said. “We think it’s a rather special kind of series. The thing we’re concerned with, the thing we’re aiming for, the thing we’re working toward is entertainment. This is a series for the storyteller.”"
Hat tip to Ted (The Younger) Fitzgerald.
“What you’re about to see, gentlemen, is a series called ‘The Twilight Zone’,” the young man said. “We think it’s a rather special kind of series. The thing we’re concerned with, the thing we’re aiming for, the thing we’re working toward is entertainment. This is a series for the storyteller.”"
Hat tip to Ted (The Younger) Fitzgerald.
Croc Update (Jailbird Edition)
Crocodile thrown in jail cell for loitering | Weird True Freaky | News.com.au: "NORTHERN Territory police were forced to arrest a grumpy crocodile and throw it in jail after it was discovered loitering in a town."
Gabriel Hunt Interview
Charles Ardai talks about discovering adventure fiction in a series of short audio clips here. Find out how Indiana Jones influenced the Gabriel Hunt series, and more.
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
(CBS) A Texas woman has a unique home defense system - hurling billiard balls at would-be robbers from the roof of her house.
Paula Ollie heard noises outside of her North Richland Hills home Wednesday afternoon and took action, reports CBS station KTVT. The 27-year-old mother collected several pool balls and placed them in her son's bicycle helmet.
[. . . .]
Ollie went out through the back door and climbed a tree to get to her roof - all while clenching the bike helmet's strap in her teeth. Once on the roof, she unleashed her unconventional defense.
"I hollered out 'Death from above!' I'm not kidding. And no sooner than I said that, I started chucking pool balls at them."
Hat tip to Jeff Meyerson.
Paula Ollie heard noises outside of her North Richland Hills home Wednesday afternoon and took action, reports CBS station KTVT. The 27-year-old mother collected several pool balls and placed them in her son's bicycle helmet.
[. . . .]
Ollie went out through the back door and climbed a tree to get to her roof - all while clenching the bike helmet's strap in her teeth. Once on the roof, she unleashed her unconventional defense.
"I hollered out 'Death from above!' I'm not kidding. And no sooner than I said that, I started chucking pool balls at them."
Hat tip to Jeff Meyerson.
The U. S. Doesn't Lead the Way
Sweden's Internet connection speed gutsy: "Sweden ranks third in the world in average Internet connection speed, way ahead of the US.
The report by the Communications Workers of America (CWA) said the average download speed in South Korea is 20.4 megabits per second (mbps) -- four times faster than the US average of 5.1 mbps, ranked 28th.
Japan trails South Korea with an average of 15.8 mbps followed by Sweden at 12.8 mbps and the Netherlands at 11.0 mbps, the report said."
The report by the Communications Workers of America (CWA) said the average download speed in South Korea is 20.4 megabits per second (mbps) -- four times faster than the US average of 5.1 mbps, ranked 28th.
Japan trails South Korea with an average of 15.8 mbps followed by Sweden at 12.8 mbps and the Netherlands at 11.0 mbps, the report said."
Saturday, October 03, 2009
Sounds Reasonable to Me
Recording women's rears not necessarily illegal, it turns out: "'I saw a couple of decent looking women and had this feeling come over me. I got like a drunk feeling and I couldn't control myself,' Ajvalia told deputies in a statement."
They'd Only Just Begun
Surprising first products of 14 famous companies - CNN.com: "Some companies find their niche and stick to it. Others, though, have to adapt to changing markets in order to thrive. Here's a look at some companies that switched industries at some point in their histories, usually for the better."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
DA Accused of Stealing Money From Motorists Wants To Defend Herself With Money She's Accused of Stealing From Motorists - Hit & Run : Reason Magazine: "Here's the crazy part: Russell is attempting to use proceeds from the county's forfeiture fund to pay for her legal defense. That is, she wants to raid the fund she's accused of stealing from motorists to fund in order to defend herself from accusations that she stole from motorists to fund it."
Alligator Man
ALLIGATOR MAN Thousands of nuisance gators have met their match in La. hunter - State - SunHerald.com: "For eight years, he’s dragged their scaly hides from ditches, storm drains, airport runways, the living rooms of terrified housewives and anywhere else a brash alligator might decide to make a pest of itself.
He lost count long ago, but nuisance-alligator hunter Easton DeHart estimates he’s tangled with thousands of the reptiles since he made “fooling with gators” his full-time job.
Judging by the hundreds of severed, shellacked heads grinning from shelves in his trophy room, their glass eyes gleaming and toothy mouths gaping, it’s safe to assume he isn’t exaggerating."
He lost count long ago, but nuisance-alligator hunter Easton DeHart estimates he’s tangled with thousands of the reptiles since he made “fooling with gators” his full-time job.
Judging by the hundreds of severed, shellacked heads grinning from shelves in his trophy room, their glass eyes gleaming and toothy mouths gaping, it’s safe to assume he isn’t exaggerating."
Friday, October 02, 2009
Monkeying Around
Ted Williams' Severed Head Abused In Cryonics Facility: Former Exec: "The New York Daily News is reporting that Red Sox Hall of Famer Ted Williams' severed head was mistreated at an Arizona cryonics facility, according to details from a new book.
In 'Frozen,' Larry Johnson, a former executive at the Alcor Life Extension Foundation in Scottsdale, Ariz., writes that Williams' head, which had been severed and frozen for storage, was abused at the facility. Johnson claims a technician took baseball-like swings at Williams' frozen head with a monkey wrench."
Thanks to Walter Satterthwait for the link.
In 'Frozen,' Larry Johnson, a former executive at the Alcor Life Extension Foundation in Scottsdale, Ariz., writes that Williams' head, which had been severed and frozen for storage, was abused at the facility. Johnson claims a technician took baseball-like swings at Williams' frozen head with a monkey wrench."
Thanks to Walter Satterthwait for the link.
Happy Birthday to The Twilight Zone!
SYRACUSE, N.Y. (AP): On a Friday night in October 1959, Americans began slipping into a dimension of imagination as vast as space and as timeless as infinity. They've really never returned.
"The Twilight Zone," first submitted for the public's approval by a reluctant CBS, has resonated with viewers from generation to generation with memorable stories carrying universal messages about society's ills and the human condition.
Here's the Plot of Your Next Lost Race Novel
Mysterious Orang Pendek apeman spotted by British expedition - Telegraph: "The team of four British explorers and their Indonesian guide tracked through dense and treacherous jungle in the Kerinci National Park of Sumatra where two of them caught a glimpse of the Orang Pendek - or short man.
The team have brought back hair samples and a piece of palm they hope will provide DNA evidence of the Orang Pendek - a creature sighted in the area since colonial times and reputed to be immensely powerful."
Hat tip to Fred Zackel.
The team have brought back hair samples and a piece of palm they hope will provide DNA evidence of the Orang Pendek - a creature sighted in the area since colonial times and reputed to be immensely powerful."
Hat tip to Fred Zackel.
Forgotten Books: THE ASSASSINATOR -- David Vowell
How forgotten is this book? Well, it was nominated for an Edgar® in 1976, and the last time I looked at the Edgar® database, the title was listed incorrectly (as The Assassination). It's a first-person police procedural in the Dragnet vein, about a serial killer. And it's 138 pages long. Now that's my kind of book.When I read this book back in the middle '70s, I was taken by the narrative voice, which reminded me a bit of Joe Friday, but not quite. Maybe it's time to mention that the only other book I have by David Vowell is Dragnet: 1968. I haven't read that one, but Vowell was also the writer on a number of the much-maligned '60s revival of Dragnet on TV.
Reading The Assassinator now, I find it disturbingly homophobic, something I didn't notice thirty-odd years ago, to my shame, I guess. I was still taken in by the voice, though. Imagine a book, even one as short as this, with almost no dialog. That's what you have here. It's a tough trick to pull of, but Vowell does it, and you almost don't even notice it. The procedural part's good, too, very Dragnet, as I said. Good book if you can get past the gay-bashing, and worth a read. It sure won't take you long.
Croc Update (Could Alcohol Have Been Involved? Edition)
B.C. man gets crocodile bites from urinating in a lagoon | VANCOUVERITE: "Urinating in a crocodile infested lagoon in Mexico has left a 20-year-old B.C. man with bite marks – to his legs.
According to Richmond cops, the man telephoned his family and told a story suggesting he had been kidnapped, forced to fight, got shot in the shoulder and then was dumped in water where he was attacked by crocodiles."
According to Richmond cops, the man telephoned his family and told a story suggesting he had been kidnapped, forced to fight, got shot in the shoulder and then was dumped in water where he was attacked by crocodiles."
As If We Didn't Know
Meeting pretty women makes men feel good - Telegraph: "Researchers found that just being in the presence of a pretty member of the opposite sex causes a temporary boost in levels of testosterone and cortisol – both hormones associated with alertness and wellbeing.
However hanging around with other men has the opposite affect – reducing the levels of both substances in the body."
However hanging around with other men has the opposite affect – reducing the levels of both substances in the body."
Thursday, October 01, 2009
New Cross-Genre Fiction E-Zine
BITTER WATER BLOG: Call for Submissions: The Feral Pages: "Lyman Feero is taking submissions for his new cross-genre e-zine, The Feral Pages. The October/November issue goes live on 10/15. Featured stories include Chris F. Holm's wonderfully disturbing 'A Better Life' and [Patrick Shawn Bagley's] 'The Cove.' Submission guidelines can be found here. I hope all of you writers and readers will help support what promises to be a unique new venue for short fiction."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Perry's cousin killed by sheriff's deputies | Houston & Texas News | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "The Texas Rangers are investigating the shooting death of a cousin of Gov. Rick Perry in a mysterious exchange of gunfire with sheriff's deputies.
[. . . .]
Perry's office wouldn't elaborate on his relationship with Wheeler, a retired social worker listed as a member of Perry's 2006 re-election campaign steering committee."
[. . . .]
Perry's office wouldn't elaborate on his relationship with Wheeler, a retired social worker listed as a member of Perry's 2006 re-election campaign steering committee."
Top 10 Great Movie Deaths
Top 10 Great Movie Deaths – RopeofSilicon.com Movie News, Trailers, Reviews and More: "Movies love to kill people, and actors love to die (preferably slowly and with a great close-up). Yet, more often than not, film fatalities are an accountant's errand. Just another tally mark in the body count. This isn't a list celebrating the art of ludicrous squibs and exploding craniums. The following movie deaths deliver more oomph than henchmen #4 getting steamrolled by the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile."
Link via Neatorama.
Link via Neatorama.
Harry Whittington Update
When the 38 Harry Whittington porn titles were revealed by David Laurence Wilson in the Stark House Whittington triple-decker, we learned that Whittington used the house names Curt Colman, John Dexter, and J. X. Williams. I've now seen two different eBay dealers offering books with the Dexter and Williams by-lines as Whittington's work, even though the titles they're offering aren't among the 38 listed. Before long, we'll probably see people crediting Whittington with everything under those by-lines. All I can say is that if you're looking for the Whittington titles, better check the list in the Stark House edition before you buy.
They Need to Hurry Up and Get This on the Market
Scientists 'reverse ageing process' | Mail Online: "Building up muscles wasted away by age could one day be as simple as taking a pill. Scientists believe they may have found the secret to making muscles young again.
The key is a protein that sends signals to kickstart stem cells which can repair muscles.
Now it is hoped that a muscle-boosting drug can be developed to slow the ageing process."
The key is a protein that sends signals to kickstart stem cells which can repair muscles.
Now it is hoped that a muscle-boosting drug can be developed to slow the ageing process."
They Will Be too Busy to Worry about Their Lawns
Senior citizens offered brothel discount | National Breaking News | News.com.au: "SAUCY senior citizens can receive a generous discount at Melbourne brothels next week.
The Moorabbin Glen Eira Leader reports as thousands of old-timers celebrate national Seniors Week, those who present their seniors’ discount card at some brothels and escort services can mark the occasion in an entirely different way."
The Moorabbin Glen Eira Leader reports as thousands of old-timers celebrate national Seniors Week, those who present their seniors’ discount card at some brothels and escort services can mark the occasion in an entirely different way."
Texas Led the Way until the Newt Changed His Mind
Owner of Dallas topless club The Lodge stripped of entrepreneur award | News for Dallas, Texas | Dallas Morning News | Latest News: "Dawn Rizos didn't need any formal recognition that The Lodge, one of the best-known gentlemen's clubs in Dallas, was a successful small business.
But when former House Speaker Newt Gingrich's conservative group named her an 'Entrepreneur of the Year,' she was thrilled by the opportunity to accept the award in Washington and speak about ways to help small businesses.
That all changed, however, when Gingrich realized that The Lodge was a topless bar, not some other business in Virginia. He rescinded Rizos' invitation to a private dinner and returned the $5,000 donation she made to his group, American Solutions for Winning the Future."
But when former House Speaker Newt Gingrich's conservative group named her an 'Entrepreneur of the Year,' she was thrilled by the opportunity to accept the award in Washington and speak about ways to help small businesses.
That all changed, however, when Gingrich realized that The Lodge was a topless bar, not some other business in Virginia. He rescinded Rizos' invitation to a private dinner and returned the $5,000 donation she made to his group, American Solutions for Winning the Future."
A Mafia Quiz
Family Matters: A Mafia Quiz: "So you've memorized five scenes from The Godfather. How's your knowledge of real American Mafia history? Take this quiz to find out."
I missed one.
I missed one.
Gator Update (Movie Edition)
JournalOnline: If you want to see a movie depicting the destruction of Des Plaines, you'll have to wait a while longer.
Until then, perhaps a few clips from "Gator Gal", also known as "Alligator Monster", might whet your appetite.
[. . . .]The plot---if that's what you want to call it---of "Gator Gal" calls for the DNA of an alligator somehow being injected into a voluptuous woman who is miraculously transformed into a half alligator, half woman creature.
Wasn't that the plot of Alligator People?
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Pasadena police find goldfish fried, others eaten | Bryan/College Station, Texas - The Eagle: "A Houston-area woman apparently burned up at her former common-law husband fried their pet goldfish and ate some of them.
Pasadena police say it's a civil matter and no charges will be filed. The seven goldfish were purchased together by the couple during happier times."
Pasadena police say it's a civil matter and no charges will be filed. The seven goldfish were purchased together by the couple during happier times."
A Musical Based on a Carter Brown Novel
It’s Astounding: A Musical Revival from ‘Rocky Horror’ Creator - ArtsBeat Blog - NYTimes.com: "Variety is reporting that Mr. O’Brien is about to stage a British tour of his musical “The Stripper,” based on the Carter Brown pulp novel. Mr. Brown also wrote the book of the musical, about a policeman trying to solve a murder in California in 1961. (Given the title and Mr. O’Brien’s involvement, we’re guessing that fishnet stockings will somehow be involved.) The music is by Richard Hartley, who was a band member of the original “Rocky Horror Show” stage production and arranged music for the film. The tour, which starts on Aug. 29, will be followed by a new British tour of “Rocky Horror,” which begins in Wimbledon on Sept. 17."More here.
Original cast album and much more about the play here.
Somehow I missed the big news about this revival when it was announced, but I was reminded of it yesterday when I received the most recent mailing of DAPA-Em (the world's only apa devoted to crime and mystery fiction).
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
This Rarely Happens at School Fetes in Texas
Decapitation: School fete turns violent - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation): "Police in Papua New Guinea are hunting for a notorious criminal after violence at a school fete left eight people dead and a severed head hanging from a power pole."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Perry camp uses Amway as model | Rick Casey | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "You know those ads that promise to show you how to make thousands of dollars working at home on your personal computer?
They're mainly bogus, of course.
But Gov. Rick Perry, ever dedicated to helping the Texas economy, has come up with a program to allow Texans to do just that.
It's sort of a campaign version of Facebook meets Amway.
The Dallas Morning News called attention Tuesday to the program, which is described at hq.rickperry.org/about, a Perry campaign Web site.
Here is the deal.
• You sign up at the Perry Web site to obtain your own campaign Web page.
• You then get 11 of your friends, located anywhere in Texas, to commit to voting for Perry as part of your team and put their names on your page.
• You make sure your 11 friends get to the polls during the early voting period next spring. You call them, you cajole them and you drive them to the polls if necessary.
Once you do all those things, you get paid $20 for each friend you recruit."
They're mainly bogus, of course.
But Gov. Rick Perry, ever dedicated to helping the Texas economy, has come up with a program to allow Texans to do just that.
It's sort of a campaign version of Facebook meets Amway.
The Dallas Morning News called attention Tuesday to the program, which is described at hq.rickperry.org/about, a Perry campaign Web site.
Here is the deal.
• You sign up at the Perry Web site to obtain your own campaign Web page.
• You then get 11 of your friends, located anywhere in Texas, to commit to voting for Perry as part of your team and put their names on your page.
• You make sure your 11 friends get to the polls during the early voting period next spring. You call them, you cajole them and you drive them to the polls if necessary.
Once you do all those things, you get paid $20 for each friend you recruit."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Police department gets boot in west Texas town | Latest News | KENS5.com: "Marfa's quiet country lifestyle and thriving art scene make this tiny west Texas town a favorite getaway.
But the city won't keep its police chief and two officers when the police department shuts down October 1.
'It's all about consolidation. What we're trying to do is run our community as efficiently as possible,' said Marfa mayor, Dan Dunlap.
According to the mayor, the city will save $90,000 a year by hiring the Presidio County Sheriff's Office to replace the local police department. The sheriff's office already patrols the rest of the rugged border city."
As you're all aware, the town of Clearview has always hired the Sheriff's Office in place of a local police department. Sheriff Rhodes is appreciative of the deal.
But the city won't keep its police chief and two officers when the police department shuts down October 1.
'It's all about consolidation. What we're trying to do is run our community as efficiently as possible,' said Marfa mayor, Dan Dunlap.
According to the mayor, the city will save $90,000 a year by hiring the Presidio County Sheriff's Office to replace the local police department. The sheriff's office already patrols the rest of the rugged border city."
As you're all aware, the town of Clearview has always hired the Sheriff's Office in place of a local police department. Sheriff Rhodes is appreciative of the deal.
Wild Bunch Wednesday Short Story
Meridian Bridge � Wild Bunch Wednesday Short Story Challenge 9: "The Western Story With No Name began its exciting run on Ian Parnham’s blog, The Culbin Trail. During the next seven weeks it loped across an open range under the rein of some terrific writers, and this week I’m honored to have Part Nine appear at Meridian Bridge."
Can I Just Get a Burger?
Vitamin cafes: Japan's latest health injection - CNN.com: "In trendy neighborhoods of Tokyo customers are lining up for vitamin injections that promise to improve health and beauty.
A Japanese woman receives an intravenous vitamin supplement at the Tenteki Caf�in Tokyo.
These intravenous vitamin 'drips' are part of the latest quick-fix, health fad catching on in Japan: the IV cafe.
Each drip pack contains saline solution and specific vitamins and minerals to target a particular health ailment or beauty concern."
A Japanese woman receives an intravenous vitamin supplement at the Tenteki Caf�in Tokyo.
These intravenous vitamin 'drips' are part of the latest quick-fix, health fad catching on in Japan: the IV cafe.
Each drip pack contains saline solution and specific vitamins and minerals to target a particular health ailment or beauty concern."
Gator Update (Texas Edition)
5 year old catches a 800 pound Gator - KTRE.com Lufkin and Nacogdoches |: "A young Livingston boy caught an alligator taller than a Texas tale.
Harvesting an alligator that's 20 times your size is a piece of cake, according to 5 year old Simon Hughes. 'Well, its pretty much simple,' said Simon who caught the alligator."
Photos and video at the link.
Harvesting an alligator that's 20 times your size is a piece of cake, according to 5 year old Simon Hughes. 'Well, its pretty much simple,' said Simon who caught the alligator."
Photos and video at the link.
Gator Update (Duct Tape Edition)
Police tape up alligator in Texas: "San Antonio police said officers used duct tape and a prisoner transport van to capture and relocate a 4-foot alligator found in a residential neighborhood."
Sheriff Dan Rhodes used this method in Murder in Four Parts.
Sheriff Dan Rhodes used this method in Murder in Four Parts.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Stephen King Update
Stephen King chills tube again - Entertainment News, TV News, Media - Variety: "Stephen King is taking another stab at the smallscreen, signing on to turn his novella 'The Colorado Kid' into an hourlong series for indie studio E1 Entertainment ('Hung').
Titled 'Haven,' the project centers on a spooky town in Maine where cursed folk live normal lives in exile. When those curses start returning, FBI agent Audrey Parker is brought in to keep those supernatural forces at bay -- while trying to unravel the mysteries of Haven."
Titled 'Haven,' the project centers on a spooky town in Maine where cursed folk live normal lives in exile. When those curses start returning, FBI agent Audrey Parker is brought in to keep those supernatural forces at bay -- while trying to unravel the mysteries of Haven."
Gene Hackman -- Author
Gene Hackman's War - The Daily Beast: "Hackman told The Daily Beast about sparring with Civil War re-enactors on his book tour, how he nearly adapted Silence of the Lambs for the big screen, and why he gave up acting for writing."
I Knew I Left College Too Soon
Film 445* Special Topics:
Hat tip to Jeff Segal.
Film and Media / Winter 2010 / Frank Burke
The 1950s Italian and American Sword-and Sandal Film. This course will explore"sword-and-sandal" films of the 1950s and early 1960s, focusing both on schlock Italian products such as the Steve Reeves Hercules films that enjoyed surprising economic success and the more "serious" Hollywood epics of the same period, many of which were shot in Italy. Neither the Hollywood nor the Italian versions would have been possible without the strong interpenetration of Hollywood and Italian film, practically and economically, during the 1950s. The focus will not be so much on the history of a genre as on the analysis of a significant moment in the postwar history of media and representation. The western world was, in the late 1950s, beginning to undergo the transformation in capitalism, media (with the emergence of television), and cultural signification that has now acquired the label "postmodernity." The sword-and-sandal epic in terms of both production modes and signification provides a great deal of insight into this transformation. In relation to the Italian films, we will also examine the "seriousness" of seemingly airhead cinema, exploring how mass entertainment, seemingly empty of serious intent or meaning, and intended only to reap profit can become, through its popularity and "timeliness," a bearer of major social meaning. Other issues to be discussed in relation to the sword and sandal film will be melodrama, spectacle vs. narrative, camp, and kitsch. Assignments will include group presentations, brief bi-weekly individual assignments on screenings and readings, a group Mystery Science Theatre 3000 overdub, and a 15-page final essay.Hat tip to Jeff Segal.
Uh-Oh
A Writer's Life: DiCaprio is Travis McGee: "Variety reports that Leonardo DiCaprio has signed to portray Travis McGee in a movie version of John D. �MacDonald's THE DEEP BLUE GOODBYE . Dana Stevens wrote the script, and Peter Chernin will produce, but no director has been set yet."
Crooked Little Vein -- Warren Ellis
I've read and reviewed several of Warren Ellis' graphic novels, so I thought I'd read his purely prose work. It's supposedly a p.i. novel, but it's really a road novel masquerading as a p.i. novel. Or maybe it's a p.i. novel masquerading as a road novel.Here's the deal: Self-proclaimed "shit magnet" Mike McGill is a down on his luck p.i. (is there any other kind?). Then the White House Chief of Staff shows up and pays him half a million bucks to find the Mcgugffin, which is a book that contains the real Constitution of the U. S. It's bound in the skin of an alien who pestered Ben Franklin and paid the price, and it's a document that could change the world as we know it. McGill hooks up with a young woman named Trix, and they travel to Columbus, San Antonio, Las Vegas, and finally Los Angeles in pursuit of the book.
Along the way Mike and Trix encounter enough warped characters, deviant sex, and just plain weirdness to fill a book. According to Ellis, it's all based on stuff he found in the Internet. Maybe that's true, or maybe not. One thing's for sure: There's something here to offend just about everybody. In fact, if you find Joe Lansdale too polite and restrained, maybe you should read this book. It's funny, and it moves right along, but if you're looking for a standard p.i. novel, you're looking in the wrong place.
Banned Books Week
New Page 1: "There are hundreds of challenges to books in schools and libraries in the United States every year. According to the American Library Association (ALA), there were at least 513 in 2008. But the total is far larger. 70 to 80 percent are never reported."
It's Banned Books Week. The link above goes to an interactive map. You can see what titles were banned or challenged in the different locations.
It's Banned Books Week. The link above goes to an interactive map. You can see what titles were banned or challenged in the different locations.
Crank: High Voltage
This is the second of the Crank movies. When Jason Statham's eye popped open at the end of the first one after his long, long fall from a helicopter, you knew there'd be a sequel. And if you saw the first movie, you know what you'll get here except more of it. If you didn't see the first one, you're not in the target audience for this one, either. The first one was loud, fast, and out of control. This one is louder, faster, and even more out of control. By the end, I don't think anybody knew what it was about anymore, and certainly nobody cared.Okay, that's not fair. They knew, all right. It's about sex, nudity, and violence. Lots of all three. Mix 'em together, amp 'em up (joke intended), and you get this movie.
Of course, that's not all. No, there's more. There's also the sensitive Wizard of Oz subtext that us more astute critics noticed. What? You didn't see it. Well, that's what I'm here for. Someday people will be writing dissertations on how this movie is really about a caring but indestructible man who's looking for a heart. He has to follow the Yellow Brick Road, or what passes for it in Los Angeles to find it, but the Wizard (Dwight Yoakum) is there to help. There's no wicked witch, but there are plenty of obstacles. And there's David Carradine, in a role that's become something to talk about, I suppose, since his ignominious death.
Plot? Who cares? It's all action, and if that's what you're looking for, along with humor and the aforementioned sex, nudity, and violence, you'll find plenty of everything. This is a B-movie that knows it's a B-movie, and it just wants you to have a good time.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Lucy Vodden, R. I. P.
Lucy Vodden, of "Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds" Song Fame, Dies - Speakeasy - WSJ: "Lucy Vodden (n�e O’Donnell), who was the inspiration for the Beatles’ song “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds,” has died, following a long battle with the autoimmune disease lupus. The British housewife — whose passing was announced by the St Thomas’ Lupus Trust charity — was 46."
Hat tip to Scott Cupp.
Hat tip to Scott Cupp.
Truckers Lead the Way
Driven to Distraction - Truckers Insist on Keeping Computers in the Cab - Series - NYTimes.com: "Crisscrossing the country, hundreds of thousands of long-haul truckers use computers in their cabs to get directions and stay in close contact with dispatchers, saving precious minutes that might otherwise be spent at the side of the road.
Like many truckers, Kurt Long uses a dispatching computer. “We’re supposed to pull over,” he said, “but nobody ever does.”
The trucking industry says these devices can be used safely, posing less of a distraction than BlackBerrys, iPhones and similar gadgets, and therefore should be exempted from legislation that would ban texting while driving."
Like many truckers, Kurt Long uses a dispatching computer. “We’re supposed to pull over,” he said, “but nobody ever does.”
The trucking industry says these devices can be used safely, posing less of a distraction than BlackBerrys, iPhones and similar gadgets, and therefore should be exempted from legislation that would ban texting while driving."
Move Along, Citizen, Nothing to See Here
The Associated Press: Attorney: OKC bombing tapes appear edited: "'Four cameras in four different locations going blank at basically the same time on the morning of April 19, 1995. There ain't no such thing as a coincidence,' Trentadue said.
He said government officials claim the security cameras did not record the minutes before the bombing because 'they had run out of tape' or 'the tape was being replaced.'
'The interesting thing is they spring back on after 9:02,' he said. 'The absence of footage from these crucial time intervals is evidence that there is something there that the FBI doesn't want anybody to see.'
A spokesman for the FBI in Oklahoma City, Gary Johnson, declined to comment and referred inquiries about the tapes to FBI officials in Washington, who were not immediately available for comment Sunday."
He said government officials claim the security cameras did not record the minutes before the bombing because 'they had run out of tape' or 'the tape was being replaced.'
'The interesting thing is they spring back on after 9:02,' he said. 'The absence of footage from these crucial time intervals is evidence that there is something there that the FBI doesn't want anybody to see.'
A spokesman for the FBI in Oklahoma City, Gary Johnson, declined to comment and referred inquiries about the tapes to FBI officials in Washington, who were not immediately available for comment Sunday."
Uh-Oh
DNA test shows Hitler skull is that of a woman | World News | News.com.au: "ADOLF Hitler may not have died in a bunker after fresh research suggests the skull thought to be the tyrant's was from a woman."
Caiman Update (London Edition)
Welcome to CTV Southwestern Ontario: "Police are keeping watch on a storm water pond in London where a caiman has taken up residence.
Police and animal control officers tried to corral the crocodile-like reptile yesterday, but it repeatedly eluded their grasp."
Police and animal control officers tried to corral the crocodile-like reptile yesterday, but it repeatedly eluded their grasp."
Ageist Swine
Too Old for Action - Celebrity Gossip | Entertainment News | Arts And Entertainment - FOXNews.com: "Willis' new film brings to mind a whole bunch of aging stars who we think are simply too old for action."
I'd Help Out, but it's Just too Far Away
Wanted: volunteers to move 400 crocs - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation): "A Northern Territory wildlife park is seeking volunteers to relocate some of its dangerous inhabitants.
Crocodylus Park, which operates as a zoo and commercial crocodile farm in Darwin, needs helpers to shift about 400 saltwater crocodiles into new ponds."
Crocodylus Park, which operates as a zoo and commercial crocodile farm in Darwin, needs helpers to shift about 400 saltwater crocodiles into new ponds."
Sunday, September 27, 2009
William Safire, R. I. P.
NY Times columnist William Safire dead at 79 | Entertainment | People | Reuters: "William Safire, the former speechwriter for Richard Nixon who won a Pulitzer Prize for columns on politics and language for The New York Times, died on Sunday, the newspaper said. He was 79."
All Righty, Then
For men's eyes only: boob-ogling good as 30 minutes in gym: "A study by German scientists showed that 10 minutes a day of ogling women’s breasts by men was as good at warding off heart disease, high blood pressure and stress as 30 minutes of aerobic exercise."
I was going to call this "The Stilwell Workout," but I thought better of it.
I was going to call this "The Stilwell Workout," but I thought better of it.
Harlequin Retro!
Learned about this from a post by Dave Zeltserman on the Rara-Avis list. Harlequin is reprinting six of its titles from the long ago with the original covers. The books are also available on Amazon.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
I Suppose the Drivers Believe that Gorillas Wear Sneaker and Run Upright
COPS stopped a charity runner in an ape costume ... because they thought he was an escaped GORILLA | The Sun |News: "A CHARITY runner in an ape costume jogs along - after being stopped by police who thought he was an escaped GORILLA.
Drivers had alerted officers, who swooped on Rory Coleman, 45, by the A6 near Leicester during a 143-mile run for The Gorilla Organisation.
The personal trainer said: 'I told the police I'd come quietly as long as they gave me a banana.'"
Drivers had alerted officers, who swooped on Rory Coleman, 45, by the A6 near Leicester during a 143-mile run for The Gorilla Organisation.
The personal trainer said: 'I told the police I'd come quietly as long as they gave me a banana.'"
The Youngest Templar: Keeper of the Grail -- Michael Spradlin
It's 1191. A young boy named Tristan, who has been brought up in a monastery and who has no idea who his parents were, is taken on as a squire by a Templar knight, and before long he's met King Richard and made a powerful enemy, one who seems to know the secret of Tristan's birth. Tristan isn't with the Templars long. Soon he's escaping Acre with the holiest relic of them all: the grail, which he has promised to take to England.It's a tough trip, but Tristan falls in with some entertaining companions, a skilled young archer named Robard Horde and a beautiful young Muslim assassin named Maryam. There's lots of action in this novel that's aimed at readers in about the fifth through the eighth grades. Lots of violence, too, and hair's-breadth escapes aplenty. The ending is a cliffhanger in the classic tradition.
While reading the book, I was reminded a little of a very old favorite of mine, Howard Pyle's Men of Iron. Great stuff.
I do have two complaints of the grouchy old English teacher sort. One is the hissing of the unhissable ("Hold him!" I hissed.) and the other is a sentence that the copy editor should have spotted ("After many hours in the saddle the sun moved lower in the western sky"). They certainly won't keep me from reading the second book in the series, The Youngest Templar: Trail of Fate, which should be out next month.
What If It Had Been a Doughnut?
'Bagelgate' leaves businesses, police to question officers' ethics - News - Citizens Voice: "On Wednesday afternoon, witnesses say an on-duty officer in a Plymouth police sport utility vehicle held up the drive-through lane of the Curry Donuts on Route 11 waiting for a toasted bagel with a coffee he was given free. When told he had to pay for the bagel, the officer claimed he didn't have his wallet, said 'If it's not free, I don't want it' and drove off."
"The Fanged Frogs" Would be a Good Name for a Rock Band
Fanged Frog Found in Bangkok - Biology | Astronomy | Chemistry | Physics - FOXNews.com: "Among the stars in the new list is a fanged frog in eastern Thailand. Given the scientific name Limnonectes megastomias, the frog lies in wait along streams for prey including birds and insects. Scientists believe it uses its fangs during combat with other males."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Police ready to 'take on' commenters, chief says: "Austin Police Chief Art Acevedo says he and some of his officers have been harassed, lied about and had their identities falsely used in online blogs and in reader comment sections on local media Internet sites.
[. . . .]
They have since researched their legal options and decided that from now on, they might launch formal investigations into such posts, Acevedo said. He said investigators might seek search warrants or subpoenas from judges to learn the identities of the authors — he thinks some could be department employees — and possibly sue them for libel or file charges if investigators think a crime was committed."
[. . . .]
They have since researched their legal options and decided that from now on, they might launch formal investigations into such posts, Acevedo said. He said investigators might seek search warrants or subpoenas from judges to learn the identities of the authors — he thinks some could be department employees — and possibly sue them for libel or file charges if investigators think a crime was committed."
Gator Update (Man's Best Friend Edition)
Clearwater woman bitten but escapes alligator - St. Petersburg Times: "A Clearwater woman walking her dog by Sawgrass Lake Park was bitten by an 8-foot alligator before she fought back and escaped.
[. . . .]
Suddenly, the alligator surfaced and bit Blackwood, who was about three feet from the water's edge. The gator began to drag her toward the lake. Her dog took off running.
Blackwood's calf was in the gator's jaws when she reached back and stuck her thumb in its eye, Morse said. The gator released its grip and bit at her thumb, allowing her to run away."
[. . . .]
Suddenly, the alligator surfaced and bit Blackwood, who was about three feet from the water's edge. The gator began to drag her toward the lake. Her dog took off running.
Blackwood's calf was in the gator's jaws when she reached back and stuck her thumb in its eye, Morse said. The gator released its grip and bit at her thumb, allowing her to run away."
Friday, September 25, 2009
What Would the Burj Dubai Look Like in Midtown Manhattan?
This Is What the Burj Dubai Would Look Like in Midtown Manhattan - Burj Dubai - Gizmodo: "What would the Burj Dubai, the world's tallest building, look like if it was in NYC? It would look something like this."
Photo at the link.
Photo at the link.
The Fly? Why?
DAVID CRONENBERG IN TALKS TO REBOOT THE FLY | FilmDrunk.com: The only movie blog by and for handsome sex machines: "directed The Fly, the heartwarming true story of how Geena Davis got impregnated by an insect-man. 23 years later, Cronenberg is in talks with Fox to possibly write and direct the reboot of his own movie."
National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims
Thousands across U.S. remember slain loved ones, plead for justice | Houston & Texas News | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "Crime Stoppers of Houston this week highlighted five unsolved murder cold cases, including Wilson's, in recognition of the local observance."
Once Again, Texas Leads the Way
Woman charged with theft from a corpse: "A 22-year-old woman who told police she was collecting a debt for pornography faces a charge of theft from a corpse.
Austin police say Linda Dynell Rushing with took money from the wallet of Samuel Stewart, whose body was found July 27 in his apartment on Burton Drive in East Austin, according to an affidavit filed Thursday in Travis County District Court.
Rushing told a police detective she also took coins and pornographic movies from Stewart's apartment, according to the affidavit. She said she was reclaiming pornography she had sold to Stewart for $20 but for which she had not been paid, the affidavit said."
Austin police say Linda Dynell Rushing with took money from the wallet of Samuel Stewart, whose body was found July 27 in his apartment on Burton Drive in East Austin, according to an affidavit filed Thursday in Travis County District Court.
Rushing told a police detective she also took coins and pornographic movies from Stewart's apartment, according to the affidavit. She said she was reclaiming pornography she had sold to Stewart for $20 but for which she had not been paid, the affidavit said."
The Seventh Seal Has Been Opened
Not plastic: Barbie to be focus of live-action film: "Model, pilot, veterinarian, astronaut and sometime-mermaid Barbara Millicent Roberts has been a star for nearly half a century. Now the famous blonde — better known as Barbie — is ready for her big-screen close-up.
Universal Studios has acquired the rights to make a live-action movie about the iconic doll, to be produced by the Laurence Mark, the man behind 'Jerry Maguire' and 'Julie & Julia,' according to the Hollywood Reporter and The Associated Press. No word yet on casting."
Universal Studios has acquired the rights to make a live-action movie about the iconic doll, to be produced by the Laurence Mark, the man behind 'Jerry Maguire' and 'Julie & Julia,' according to the Hollywood Reporter and The Associated Press. No word yet on casting."
Vanish in an Instant
How to Disappear and Escape the System Without a Trace - Asylum.com: "In these crazy times, have you ever wanted to know how to disappear, vanish or completely exit the life you've led? Well, Frank M. Ahearn is an expert on the matter. The skip tracer and privacy consultant has even written a guide on the matter: 'How to Disappear ... and Fall Off the Grid.'
'Simply put, [disappearing is] the reverse engineering of skip tracing,' says Ahearn, referring to the process by which you locate missing persons."
'Simply put, [disappearing is] the reverse engineering of skip tracing,' says Ahearn, referring to the process by which you locate missing persons."
That's $10K More than I Paid for My First House
Stylish New Beds for Men - WSJ.com: "After years of catering to women, manufacturers are setting their sights on men. The new macho mattresses they're introducing have 'muscle-recovery properties' and cooling technology, on the theory that men are more likely to feel too hot in bed. The bed frames feature built-in TVs, iPod docking stations, wine coolers, safes and other guy-friendly gadgetry.
Dave Shapiro, a 33-year-old real-estate investor in Philadelphia, paid $30,000 for a Hollandia International adjustable bed that offers a built-in 32-inch Sony flat-screen TV, surround-sound speakers and outlets for laptops. 'The best thing is the TV,' he says. 'You don't have to get up.'"
Dave Shapiro, a 33-year-old real-estate investor in Philadelphia, paid $30,000 for a Hollandia International adjustable bed that offers a built-in 32-inch Sony flat-screen TV, surround-sound speakers and outlets for laptops. 'The best thing is the TV,' he says. 'You don't have to get up.'"
More Good News for the Ice Pirates
Scientists See Water Ice in Fresh Meteorite Craters on Mars | UANews.org: "Scientists are seeing sub-surface water ice that may be 99 percent pure halfway between the north pole and the equator on Mars, thanks to quick-turnaround observations from orbit of fresh meteorite impact craters on the planet."
Forgotten Books: The Augustus Mandrell Series
The three books about master of disguise and assassin for hire Augustus Mandrell make up one of my very favorite series.
You want clever plotting? You'll never find better than in these books, each one of which is made up of four "commissions," all of which take place around the time of WWII (The Big One). The commissions aren't published in linear order. They jump back and forth in time, and they're all interconnected. This is one series that should definitely be read in order if you want to appreciate what a great job McAuliffe did. The plotting within each story is a marvel, but when you read all of them, you'll be in awe. Okay, maybe you won't, but I am.
In fact, the plotting would be enough to recommend these books, but they're also hilariously funny. When I bought Of all the Bloody Cheek way back there in 1965, I had no idea what I was getting. It was a wonderful surprise to read the commissions and marvel and laugh aloud. I eagerly awaited other books by McAuliffe, but it was three years before Rather a Vicious Gentleman appeared, and three more years before I got to read For Murder I Charge More. And that was it. As far as I knew, there were no more Mandrell stories to read.
I was wrong, however. There's a fourth book. I've read it. Supposedly it will be published one of these days. That's been the case for years now, so I'm not counting on it. It would be great if it happened. Maybe it will, since Point Blank did reprint Of all the Bloody Cheek.
I'm not alone in my admiration for this series. Check out this website, for a more detailed overview than I've given. It's a real shame that this series is forgotten. It's one of the greats.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
I Thought the Lattes Cost that Much Anywhere
Local News | Flashing bikini baristas in Everett accused of prostitution | Seattle Times Newspaper: "Five baristas have been charging customers to touch their breasts and buttocks at an espresso stand where servers wear bikinis to draw business, police said.
The five were charged Wednesday with prostitution. Charging money for that kind of touching falls under the city's definition of prostitution.
The Everett Herald reports the women were charging up to $80 to strip down while fixing lattes and mochas."
Hat tip to Vince Keenan, who claims he's not a coffee-drinker.
The five were charged Wednesday with prostitution. Charging money for that kind of touching falls under the city's definition of prostitution.
The Everett Herald reports the women were charging up to $80 to strip down while fixing lattes and mochas."
Hat tip to Vince Keenan, who claims he's not a coffee-drinker.
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