Excerpt from the San Francisco Chronicles New Flicks newsletter: "The Hottie and the Nottie:
Paris Hilton's acting strengths (her sensitivity to dialogue? Her approach to character development?) are put to the test in this best-friends comedy about a glamorous bachelorette who beats back the lustful guys while keeping protective watch over her less-attractive friend (Christine Lakin). Rated PG-13. "
This sounds too horrible.
Friday, February 08, 2008
One more interesting column
David Brooks's examination of the election divided by educational attainment lines.
Krugman on Recession
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/08/opinion/08krugman.html?th&emc=th
Today's Krugman column is excellent. I've held this view for awhile now and I'm sure you've gathered that I think we're headed straight for a recession, and not a mild one. This helps explain why - which leads me to my second point, the candidates need to start talking more about the economy. Unfortunately, we are in a period where we need a leader who understands all of the forces in play. But, I think we're also going to need to question our own behavior, particularly as consumers. I read another article today alleging that Wal-Mart gift card holders are using the cards for necessities, NECESSITIES! Typically, gift cards would be used for iPods, dvds, etc. Retailers apparently had their worst January in 40 years. And this is all small beans compared to the China problem. Seriously, everyone should be educated about at least the basics of our economy and what it is going through now. And our next leader is going to need a good sense of what's happening with the economy and some VERY good advisors.
Today's Krugman column is excellent. I've held this view for awhile now and I'm sure you've gathered that I think we're headed straight for a recession, and not a mild one. This helps explain why - which leads me to my second point, the candidates need to start talking more about the economy. Unfortunately, we are in a period where we need a leader who understands all of the forces in play. But, I think we're also going to need to question our own behavior, particularly as consumers. I read another article today alleging that Wal-Mart gift card holders are using the cards for necessities, NECESSITIES! Typically, gift cards would be used for iPods, dvds, etc. Retailers apparently had their worst January in 40 years. And this is all small beans compared to the China problem. Seriously, everyone should be educated about at least the basics of our economy and what it is going through now. And our next leader is going to need a good sense of what's happening with the economy and some VERY good advisors.
FAIL
Apparently, there are a few failure blogs out there. Here's a sampling, but if you're bored, I'd recommend checking out Shipment of Fail and The FAIL Blog sometime. Just a little harmless Schadenfreude on a foggy Friday.
And my favorite...
Thursday, February 07, 2008
You know what really steams my clams?
Books written to propel the idea that it is ok, even desirable, for a girl or woman to be a brat or bitch. And actually this applies to movies, television, all forms of media. Sometimes the information contained within is valuable, but as consumers, we have spoken and the only way to make it big is to appeal to the desier of today's females to be... well, Paris Hilton. Or a number of other "great role model" celebrities. I first became disgusted when I read a couple paragraphs out of the New York Times bestseller Skinny Bitch. My sister bought the book after Christmas, in hopes of getting healthier. And the information inside is good. But the presentation seeks out the absolute worst in today's pop culture. In case you're unfamiliar, here are some excerpts, courtesy of Amazon. Why couldn't it provide the information in a "tough talk" manner without pigeon-holing women into this stereotype of wanting to be a "skinny bitch"? I'm not a terribly sensitive person, but I do find the whole concept to be offensive.
My hatred of this genre (can I call it that?) was re-inflamed this morning when I got my email from Borders. Apparently there's a series for teens, in which the 9th book (it made it to nine!) is called Bratfest at Tiffany's (don't even get me started on the name...) aimed at middle school students that encourages girls to be total and complete brats (and many other nasty names). Here's a truly awful excerpt courtesy of Borders. Now, one of the many, many things I find troubling about this trend is the fact that middle school is a terrible time no matter what. It's just an awkward, horrific age. Add to that, literature (if one can call it that) supporting the idea that pretty, popular people should be ruthless and dominant in the grand social world of your average middle school. The inkling, I'm sure, was there before - but now these girls, and ultimately I'm sure this affects the boys too, are actually finding reinforcement for their selfish and petty behavior. I haven't read these books, and I can safely warrant that I never will, but I'm making an educated guess that the end doesn't include some heart-warming lesson about how it's best to be kind, tolerant, open-minded, sensitive, etc. And that is what I believe our children need now, more than ever. These "brats" seem to almost follow the lead of our current administration - establish your dominance, do whatever you feel, and screw anyone who doesn't agree - you're fabulous, so who cares? 
I see more and more of these sort of publications every day. Fascination with the worst in people seems to run rampant. I don't think it's hard to see that we have quite a degree of moral decay going on in this country (note that it was during a time when the "family values" party was in control that the bulk of this happened, at least from my point of view). Why do we play into the idea that terrible people are somehow "cool"? Does anyone have any insight? I sure don't. My classmates may have varying views, but for the most part, I felt like the admired parties in our school were generally the good students, sometimes athletes, and overall nice people. What was your experience? And I'd love to hear any thoughts you may have on this trend.
My hatred of this genre (can I call it that?) was re-inflamed this morning when I got my email from Borders. Apparently there's a series for teens, in which the 9th book (it made it to nine!) is called Bratfest at Tiffany's (don't even get me started on the name...) aimed at middle school students that encourages girls to be total and complete brats (and many other nasty names). Here's a truly awful excerpt courtesy of Borders. Now, one of the many, many things I find troubling about this trend is the fact that middle school is a terrible time no matter what. It's just an awkward, horrific age. Add to that, literature (if one can call it that) supporting the idea that pretty, popular people should be ruthless and dominant in the grand social world of your average middle school. The inkling, I'm sure, was there before - but now these girls, and ultimately I'm sure this affects the boys too, are actually finding reinforcement for their selfish and petty behavior. I haven't read these books, and I can safely warrant that I never will, but I'm making an educated guess that the end doesn't include some heart-warming lesson about how it's best to be kind, tolerant, open-minded, sensitive, etc. And that is what I believe our children need now, more than ever. These "brats" seem to almost follow the lead of our current administration - establish your dominance, do whatever you feel, and screw anyone who doesn't agree - you're fabulous, so who cares? I see more and more of these sort of publications every day. Fascination with the worst in people seems to run rampant. I don't think it's hard to see that we have quite a degree of moral decay going on in this country (note that it was during a time when the "family values" party was in control that the bulk of this happened, at least from my point of view). Why do we play into the idea that terrible people are somehow "cool"? Does anyone have any insight? I sure don't. My classmates may have varying views, but for the most part, I felt like the admired parties in our school were generally the good students, sometimes athletes, and overall nice people. What was your experience? And I'd love to hear any thoughts you may have on this trend.Mile High
Firstly, this is hilarious. Secondly, do you think they made it with the intent of ratifying every stereotype about San Francisco? Thirdly, this actually comes on television out here. Usually around the time Futurama is on Comedy Central. Cracks me up every single time.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Privacy
I was researching privacy rights today and came upon this oldie but goodie from The Onion. The satirical article was connected with this real case. I plan to write more about privacy in the future, as it is a subject about which I have very strong feelings. Do you? If so, share them (but only if you want).
Super Tuesday Follow-up
So, I doubt anyone was terribly surprised at the results. And, as much as I wanted hard evidence of a sea change in American politics, the Obama campaign could certainly benefit from their "viable underdog" position in the coming months. Finally, I'm glad it's not over for Barack - that was my biggest fear and America did well to keep his campaign afloat. That being said, I'm still not pleased that "Hil-dog" is on top. However, unlike many I have spoken with, I'm not a huge Hillary hater. I prefer Obama, certainly. But considering the noxious atmosphere of American politics since 2000, I think nearly any change (*confession: I feel much more comfortable saying that given Romney's performance yesterday) would be beneficial. I guess I'm just arguing for open-mindedness. I read some disturbing things on both sides of the Hillary debate (she has an almost uncanny ability to spark passionate extremism regarding her character) today. This column from Stanley Fish in the New York Times details how crazy some of the claims about Hillary are, and I agree that some of the "haters" have gotten out of control. On the other side, a rumor is circulating that Chelsea Clinton forwarded this rant from feminist Robin Morgan called "Goodbye to All That (#2)" around to friends. I read most of this rant, and while some points are valid, most of it is anger-driven nonsense. So on either side, this extremism is ridiculous, but I suppose I can understand it. But as far as analysis of the vast majority of the American population, I guess I'm still a little perplexed by their support. Hillary supposedly carries women (not a huge surprise), Latinos and the elderly. Besides feminism which I get, I'm curious as to the basis for these votes. Anyone have some insight? Have a link to an article that provides some insight? Anything? Just trying to understand the dynamics here...
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
The Shepherd's Dog
This album, by Iron & Wine, is excellent. It has taken a couple months to really sink in, but The Shepherd's Dog is a great album. One thing I noticed, however, is that often times the prettiness of the music distracts from the content of the lyrics. This is not a problem I typically run into, if one can even call it a "problem." Both are excellent (music and lyrics), but I've had scattered revelations regarding the lyrical content (whereas I noticed the beauty of the music straight away). Basically, once every couple of weeks since I popped the album onto my iPod, a song will come on shuffle at exactly the right time - a time when I can truly listen to the words. Today that song was "Innocent Bones". I've posted the lyrics below, but I just wanted to recommmend the album to any lover of beautiful music out there.
Innocent Bones
Cain got a milk-eyed mule from the auction
Abel got a telephone
And even the last of the blue-eyed babies know
That the burning man is the color of the end of day
And how every tongue that gets bit always has another word to say
Cain bought a blade from some witch at the window
Abel bought a bag of weed
And even the last of the brown-eyed babies see
That the cartoon king has a tattoo of a bleeding heart
There ain’t a penthouse Christian wants the pain of the scab, but they all want the scar
How every mouth sings of what it’s without so we all sing of love
And how it ain’t one dog who’s good at fucking and denying who he’s thinking of
Cain heard a cat tumble limp off the rooftop
Abel heard his papa pray
And even the last of the black-eyed babies say
That every saint has a chair you can borrow and a church to sell
That the wind blows cold across the back of the master and the kitchen help
There’s a big pile of innocent bones still holding up the garden wall
And it was always the broken hand we learned to lean on after all
How God knows if Christ came back he would find us in a poker game
After finding out the drugs were all free but they won't let you out the door again
Innocent Bones
Cain got a milk-eyed mule from the auction
Abel got a telephone
And even the last of the blue-eyed babies know
That the burning man is the color of the end of day
And how every tongue that gets bit always has another word to say
Cain bought a blade from some witch at the window
Abel bought a bag of weed
And even the last of the brown-eyed babies see
That the cartoon king has a tattoo of a bleeding heart
There ain’t a penthouse Christian wants the pain of the scab, but they all want the scar
How every mouth sings of what it’s without so we all sing of love
And how it ain’t one dog who’s good at fucking and denying who he’s thinking of
Cain heard a cat tumble limp off the rooftop
Abel heard his papa pray
And even the last of the black-eyed babies say
That every saint has a chair you can borrow and a church to sell
That the wind blows cold across the back of the master and the kitchen help
There’s a big pile of innocent bones still holding up the garden wall
And it was always the broken hand we learned to lean on after all
How God knows if Christ came back he would find us in a poker game
After finding out the drugs were all free but they won't let you out the door again
Alternative Energy
Some of you may have noticed, but I'm a bit progressive. I'm particularly passionate about progress in the environmental sphere. Americans need to start adopting alternative forms of energy sooner, rather than later, and we need to let go of some old hang-ups in order to do so. I still need to do more research on nuclear power, but it seems like a reasonable (though certainly not the ideal) option. However, wind farms are something I'd definitely like to see more of. Many of the major arguments against building more wind farms are based on NIMBY ("not in my backyard") politics - basically, people think they are ugly. I disagree. Take a look at the above (which is available for purchase through the New York Times) and below, then compare with the coal plants below. Oh and don't forget this. What would you rather look at? What would you rather breathe?
As a follow-up, you can affect the way you, and people in your local area, get their energy in two ways - from the supply side and the demand side. From the supply side, one can stay politically savvy, write your senators and congresspeople, and vote for clean and alternative energy initiatives. From the demand side, you can send the message that this is what the people want by exercising your power as a consumer. Many energy companies give you the option of getting a percentage of your energy consumption from renewable sources only. It typically is slightly to moderately more expensive. I know my grandparents in New Jersey are doing this and many other states have similar options. If you really want to get involved, then there are many, many non-profit organizations seeking to help the environment. http://www.1sky.org/ is one of my favorites.
Super Tuesday!
I voted! I'm sure you can all figure out for whom. So excited to see tonight (tomorrow?) which one of our candidates takes home the most delegates. Speaking of the candidates, however, take a look at this collage by the New York Times. There is no way that picture of Mitt Romney was not meant to make him look like an evil overlord. Haha, the first time I scanned this, I actually did a double take. Happy...happy...happy...holy crap that man wants to kill me!
Monday, February 04, 2008
Another one of my favorite things about San Francisco
SPECIALTY'S COOKIES
Not only are these butter-laden beauties sublimely delicious - but you can make sure to get them fresh out of the oven thanks to the wonders of information technology.
Not only are these butter-laden beauties sublimely delicious - but you can make sure to get them fresh out of the oven thanks to the wonders of information technology.
Super Bowl
I'm pretty pleased with the result, but very pleased with the drama at the end of the game. I think that's the most important thing - that it's not a boring game. I was also happy to hear that Paul was watching across the pond - I knew everyone in my country would be watching, but I hadn't anticipated that. But I was somewhat disappointed with the commercials. Granted, I was cooking simultaneously, so I may have missed some good ones - any recommendations?
I was a fan of Ferrell's Bud Light ads - but that's pretty much a given, the man is hilarious.
Sunday, February 03, 2008
Both inspiring and cheesy.
I just can't help liking this man. Vote for him in your respective primaries.
Also, Scarlett Johansson is too stunning. I have such a woman-crush.
Friday, February 01, 2008
Musicians whose awesomeness is not reflected in the amount of attention they get
Jens Lekman
Animal Collective
Ray LaMontagne
Andrew Bird
Band of Horses
Patrick Wolf
Do yourself a favor and check these artists out!
Animal Collective
Ray LaMontagne
Andrew Bird
Band of Horses
Patrick Wolf
Do yourself a favor and check these artists out!
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