I like this story. "Flippin' burgers" is now gonna be a cool job!!
That's the power a President has if he gets out in the real world. Real people, real food. (Sounds like a slogan I should trademark).
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Reminder to East Bay/SF Residents
Kevin Berne will have the second weekend of his Open Studio this coming weekend. I recommend you stop by and see his photography and maybe even pick up a print to decorate that boring wall you have somewhere in your house.
See his photos here:
http://www.kevinberne.com/
Kevin Berne will have the second weekend of his Open Studio this coming weekend. I recommend you stop by and see his photography and maybe even pick up a print to decorate that boring wall you have somewhere in your house.
See his photos here:
http://www.kevinberne.com/
Today's Violence at Holocaust Museum
There is a lot being written about the threat of right wing extremist terrorism in this country and recent killings attest to that. A new book that covers that subject very well, and the author was just quoted this week saying that more violence by wingnuts was probable. Today's crime bore his warning out.
There is a lot being written about the threat of right wing extremist terrorism in this country and recent killings attest to that. A new book that covers that subject very well, and the author was just quoted this week saying that more violence by wingnuts was probable. Today's crime bore his warning out.
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Oakland's Fenton Ice Cream Shop Has Role in Movie "UP."
Anyone who has seen "UP" may have missed the reference to Fentons in Oakland (I won't give anything away) so in an effort to be of assistance to people curious, I visited Fentons last week and took the following photos. The sundae was delicious. They make their own ice cream in the rear of the kitchen, complete with glass walls so you can view the process. My BLT lunch was excellent as well.
Pix taken with my iPhone
Anyone who has seen "UP" may have missed the reference to Fentons in Oakland (I won't give anything away) so in an effort to be of assistance to people curious, I visited Fentons last week and took the following photos. The sundae was delicious. They make their own ice cream in the rear of the kitchen, complete with glass walls so you can view the process. My BLT lunch was excellent as well.
Pix taken with my iPhone
Saturday, June 06, 2009
Solid Air Remains A Favorite Musical Group
Saw them again last night at French Garden Restaurant, Sebastopol, and enjoyed them as much as ever. Found out that you can audition their songs at CDBaby.com and buy their music there as well. They have been performing here in Sonoma county for several years now, typically at outdoor festivals (like the Forestville Youth Barbcue this weekend) and are always a crowd pleaser. I recommend that you catch them when they play in your area.
Sample CD:
Saw them again last night at French Garden Restaurant, Sebastopol, and enjoyed them as much as ever. Found out that you can audition their songs at CDBaby.com and buy their music there as well. They have been performing here in Sonoma county for several years now, typically at outdoor festivals (like the Forestville Youth Barbcue this weekend) and are always a crowd pleaser. I recommend that you catch them when they play in your area.
Sample CD:
Friday, June 05, 2009
Mary McCarty, Chair of George W. Bush Campaign, Sentenced to 42 Months in Prison For Corruption
Another corrupt Bush associate goes to jail. Stop the Presses!
About George Bush
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
Gas Price Gouging Returns
The price of gas has gone up here in Sebastopol and environs 2-3 cents per gallon everyday of this week. We are now averaging $2.87 per gallon, while at the beginning of the week it was $2.71.
There have been no major news events that justify the traders and speculators raising the price of oil, in fact as far as I can see, the price of oil is the same today as it was Monday.
And of course the corporate media has too many shiny objects to dwell on at the moment to concentrate on the "why" of the price increases, so profiteering continues unabated.
Glad I have a new bicycle, a Trek Navigator, to use and which allows me to thumb my nose at the gas stations as I pass them by.
Book recommendation: "Incendiary" by Chris Cleave. Mother who lost husband and son in a terrorist attack in London writes a letter to Osama bin Laden detailing the affect on her life.
It's very humorous, as unlikely as that sounds, and well told original story.
And just because I haven't posted one in a while, here's another of those exciting "goats on a roof" photo:
These goats are found in Door County, Wisconsin.
The price of gas has gone up here in Sebastopol and environs 2-3 cents per gallon everyday of this week. We are now averaging $2.87 per gallon, while at the beginning of the week it was $2.71.
There have been no major news events that justify the traders and speculators raising the price of oil, in fact as far as I can see, the price of oil is the same today as it was Monday.
And of course the corporate media has too many shiny objects to dwell on at the moment to concentrate on the "why" of the price increases, so profiteering continues unabated.
Glad I have a new bicycle, a Trek Navigator, to use and which allows me to thumb my nose at the gas stations as I pass them by.
Book recommendation: "Incendiary" by Chris Cleave. Mother who lost husband and son in a terrorist attack in London writes a letter to Osama bin Laden detailing the affect on her life.
It's very humorous, as unlikely as that sounds, and well told original story.
And just because I haven't posted one in a while, here's another of those exciting "goats on a roof" photo:
These goats are found in Door County, Wisconsin.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Friday Wrap Up
New bicycles are fun to ride. Trek Navigator 3, Comfort line lives up to its claim: very comfortable to ride and gear shifts work splendidly. We rode to breakfast at the Parkside Cafe in Santa Rosa on Memorial Day, a round trip distance of about 20 miles.
Photo taken with my trusty old Coolpix 5700.
Visited Photographer buddy Kevin Berne's new studio in Oakland this week. He's gearing up for an open studio event the first two weekends in June, but took the time to give me a tour. We hope to do some lighting seminars there for wanna be video pros, or for folks who put a lot of video up on social sites and would like them to look more professional.
His site is kevinberne.com and has some great images on it. You can also get the dates for the Open Studio days.
Couple views of the studio, courtesy Kevin:
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Something to think about this Memorial Day
AP released this fact today:
Read that figure then ask me how much I detest Cheney.
AP released this fact today:
Your request is being processed...
US military deaths in Iraq war at 4,299
That figure does not include the suicide deaths that take place once a GI is home.Read that figure then ask me how much I detest Cheney.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Fox Exec Takes On Nielsen
Something I have been waiting for: Murdoch taking on the only entity beyond his control and to which his empire's destiny is joined.
I wrote about this just this morning on my blog:
Mediamarv.blogspot. com
This will be a story to follow.
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
Don't Trust Neilsen Ratings - Never Have, Never Will.
This has long been a mantra of mine that the ratings games is totally a guessing business, estimates that are taken as gospel, mostly by advertisers who buy into the system.
And I have long thought that Rupert Murdoch's empire was too big to kowtow to someone's elses' rules (ratings) and eventually I expect him to buy Nielsen.
Here's the first step in that process:
http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118003924.html?categoryid=14&cs=1
This has long been a mantra of mine that the ratings games is totally a guessing business, estimates that are taken as gospel, mostly by advertisers who buy into the system.
And I have long thought that Rupert Murdoch's empire was too big to kowtow to someone's elses' rules (ratings) and eventually I expect him to buy Nielsen.
Here's the first step in that process:
http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118003924.html?categoryid=14&cs=1
Friday, May 15, 2009
Pelosi Uproard in a Nutshell:
From Hannity's show yesterday, a former federal prosecutor summed up neatly why the Repubs are so desperately using Pelosi as a diversion:
From Hannity's show yesterday, a former federal prosecutor summed up neatly why the Repubs are so desperately using Pelosi as a diversion:
"...Later, Sonny Hostin raises the really relevant point:
Yes, why aren't Repubs talking about that?The issue here is that everybody knows that waterboarding is torture. And that was an approved policy. It is torture! Everyone knows that. And that was the policy of the Bush administration. Why don't we talk about that?
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Thanks to Fire Dog Lake for the following chart
showing Democrats voted against credit card interest rate caps and the amount of money they received from the financial world:
showing Democrats voted against credit card interest rate caps and the amount of money they received from the financial world:
| Senator | Credit Card Interest Rate Caps | TARP I Bank Bailout Oct 2008 | TARP II Bank Bailout Jan 2009 | Lifetime FIRE Donations |
| Akaka (D-HI) | No | Yes | Yes | $551,095 |
| Baucus (D-MT) | No | Yes | Yes | $4,633,243 |
| Bayh (D-IN) | No | Yes | No | $3,988,480 |
| Bingaman (D-NM) | No | Yes | Yes | $492,042 |
| Byrd (D-WV) | No | Yes | Yes | $421,000 |
| Cantwell (D-WA) | No | No | No | $1,828,540 |
| Carper (D-DE) | No | Yes | Yes | $2,160,628 |
| Hagan (D-NC) | No | N/A | Yes | $545,000 |
| Johnson (D-SD) | No | No | Yes | $3,025,166 |
| Kaufman (D-DE) | No | Yes | Yes | $0* |
| Landrieu (D-LA) | No | No | Yes | $2,388,634 |
| Lieberman (ID-CT) | No | Yes | Yes | $9,981,924 |
| Lincoln (D-AR) | No | Yes | No | $1,672,292 |
| Murray (D-WA) | No | Yes | Yes | $1,394,807 |
| Nelson (D-FL) | No | No | Yes | $2,667,406 |
| Nelson (D-NE) | No | Yes | No | $3,058,968 |
| Pryor (D-AR) | No | Yes | Yes | $1,322,948 |
| Shaheen (D-NH) | No | Yes | No | $659,000 |
| Specter (D-PA) | No | Yes | Yes | $5,757,910 |
| Stabenow (D-MI) | No | No | Yes | $1,736,406 |
| Tester (D-MT) | No | No | "Present" (Yes) | $473,226 |
| Warner (D-VA) | No | Yes | Yes | $1,950,479 |
Monday, May 11, 2009
More Proof Gas Prices Are A Farce:
From a post on Huffington Post by Mark Williams:
(snip)
From a post on Huffington Post by Mark Williams:
(snip)
Regardless, oil prices continue to rise even though demand has hit its lowest level since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Crude inventories are at their highest levels since 1990 when Iraq invaded Kuwait.
"In my mind, this is a market that is looking for an excuse to go higher," said Phil Flynn of Alaron Trading Corp."
Supply and demand my arse. Profiteering is more like it.
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Back From Austin - full of beer and smelling like barbque.
After 5 days of Austin's best beer, music and food, we are booked solidy at the club for the next two weeks. But...
A very special find: One of the best biscuits I've ever had. At a wine bar!!! They do light breakfasts, have a natural food market and bakery in the back and an excellent wine selection. We stopped by this place several times. Would have been back once more but they were closed on Mondays, the day we left.
Biscuit sandwich of cheese, egg and bacon. Biscuit was flaky, full of flavor and was just dense enough to hold together as a sandwich.
Located on South Congress, half mile or so past the Ann Richardson bridge (aka Congress St. bridge)
After 5 days of Austin's best beer, music and food, we are booked solidy at the club for the next two weeks. But...
A very special find: One of the best biscuits I've ever had. At a wine bar!!! They do light breakfasts, have a natural food market and bakery in the back and an excellent wine selection. We stopped by this place several times. Would have been back once more but they were closed on Mondays, the day we left.
Biscuit sandwich of cheese, egg and bacon. Biscuit was flaky, full of flavor and was just dense enough to hold together as a sandwich.
Located on South Congress, half mile or so past the Ann Richardson bridge (aka Congress St. bridge)
Monday, April 27, 2009
Why are We Paying $50 a Barrel for $20 Barrel Oil??
That's a Question I Have Been Asking Myself For Two Years or More!
About Saudi Arabia
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
About Saudi Arabia
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
Spring Has Sprung: Photo To Prove It Here:
Kay enjoys the wisteria while it lasts. Delicate, fragrant but short lived.
Photo taken downtown Sebastopol by my trusty Nikon D70s, set on raw resolution which automatically gives me a jpg work print and fill flash boosted by half a stop. I have not processed the image so the exposure is a little hot.
And Another One!!
Got Flu? Thank Susan Collins!By: Teddy Partridge Monday April 27, 2009 10:09 am |
Flu And You - Part V - Watch more Videos at Vodpod.
"Does it belong in this bill? Should we have $870 million in this bill? No, we should not." Susan Collins bragged about stripping pandemic flu preparation money from the stimulus bill in February. Doesn't seem so moderate now, does it?
Watch her brag about it right here.
Her website still posts a glowing Wall Street Journal article about her wonderful leadership on the stimulus entitled "GOP Wields More Influence on the Stimulus Bill" [that page as now been scrubbed, but we saved it as a PDF -ed.]
After meeting with Mr. Obama, Sen. Collins expressed concern about a number of spending provisions, including $780 million for pandemic-flu preparedness. "I have no doubt that the president is willing to negotiate in good faith, that he wants to have a bipartisan bill," Sen. Collins said
Hope we sure get more of that wonderful good-faith negotiation with the GOP soon!
Any Doubts That Republicans Are Intrinsically Evil Washed Away
At least the Rep leadership in DC is.
Great article from Susie Madrak in CrooksandLiars today:
Sad that in the time of the country's greatest need, the GOP always says "screw america" and puts party ideology first.
At least the Rep leadership in DC is.
Great article from Susie Madrak in CrooksandLiars today:
As I often tell myself, there is rarely any situation in which the attentions of the Republican party can't make it even worse. Dave Johnson at Seeing the Forest points out one major problem:
We face a potential swine flu pandemic, and we do not have the people in place in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that we need. Why not? The Republicans are blocking confirmation of Obama’s nominee, Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius.
Why are they blocking this nomination? Because Gov. Sebelius won’t approve Kansas Republican bills to block abortion even if the abortion will save the mother’s life. They say she is “an enemy of the unborn,” because she thinks doctors should be able to save the mother’s life.
So as you worry about this possible flu pandemic, think about why your government is not yet fully up and running to do its part and protect us. As we saw when hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, government-hating Republicans destroyed our ability to respond to emergencies, and instead set up a system where contracts were awarded to cronies who collected the cash but never delivered the services. And now they continue to block our government’s ability to protect us, because they think that a mother’s life is not as important as a fetus.
The Democrats should start a big public relations push to get the Republicans to drop their opposition for the sake of the country.
It might work, but who knows? After all, Republicans always put party above country. Because guess what the Republicans (including "moderate" Susan Collins, helped along by Karl Rove's attacks) stripped out of the stimulus bill? You guessed it: pandemic flu preparedness! (They insisted it had nothing to do with the economy.) From John Nichols in today's The Nation:
When House Appropriations Committee chairman David Obey, the Wisconsin Democrat who has long championed investment in pandemic preparation, included roughly $900 million for that purpose in this year's emergency stimulus bill, he was ridiculed by conservative operatives and congressional Republicans.
Obey and other advocates for the spending argued, correctly, that a pandemic hitting in the midst of an economic downturn could turn a recession into something far worse -- with workers ordered to remain in their homes, workplaces shuttered to avoid the spread of disease, transportation systems grinding to a halt and demand for emergency services and public health interventions skyrocketing. Indeed, they suggested, pandemic preparation was essential to any responsible plan for renewing the U.S. economy.
Sad that in the time of the country's greatest need, the GOP always says "screw america" and puts party ideology first.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Do You Know the Proper Way to Cough in Public?
This post has an informative (and somewhat humorous) video demonstrating the only approved way to cough or sneeze in public these days:
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/4/26/724688/-Swine-Flu-Update:-Public-Health-Emergency-Declared
This post has an informative (and somewhat humorous) video demonstrating the only approved way to cough or sneeze in public these days:
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/4/26/724688/-Swine-Flu-Update:-Public-Health-Emergency-Declared
The Tragedy of Alyssa Peterson.
In case you aren't familiar with her story, this post from FDL is very powerful and informative and I recommend a quiet reading of it.
http://firedoglake.com/2009/04/26/torture-and-the-united-states-of-alyssa-peterson/
In case you aren't familiar with her story, this post from FDL is very powerful and informative and I recommend a quiet reading of it.
http://firedoglake.com/2009/04/26/torture-and-the-united-states-of-alyssa-peterson/
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Very Different Sort of Website.
Perhaps this site is another reason I'm glad that I have never lost my luggage.
http://www.isthisyourluggage.com/Site/Luggage_home.html
Perhaps this site is another reason I'm glad that I have never lost my luggage.
http://www.isthisyourluggage.com/Site/Luggage_home.html
Friday, April 24, 2009
Great News From Camile Cusumano From Argentina
If you click on the image, it will open to a larger, much easier to read mode.
For more info, go to her website: CamilleCusumano.com
If you click on the image, it will open to a larger, much easier to read mode.
For more info, go to her website: CamilleCusumano.com
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Mother's Day Family Photo
Had a photo session with Ann Marie Dale, her daughter Alexandria and husband Ryan Polite in Ragle Park yesterday for a traditional Mother's Day present: a current portrait.
I think outdoor portraits are best and the most fun to shoot. And my trademark, as it were, is to use the sun as my backlight.
I used my Nikon D70s, in the raw mode, which also produces a small reference jpg which is what this photo is. Fill flash was with my trusty old Vivatar 285 into a bounce card on a Bogen light stand. Nice thing about the raw format is that in Photoshop CS3 I can totally control the color temp, in this case warming up the photo and reducing highlights as needed.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Amazing English Singer!
If you've not yet seen this video (and you will) here's a link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxPZh4AnWyk
If you've not yet seen this video (and you will) here's a link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxPZh4AnWyk
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Conservatives are planning for fun times!
They got all these teabagging parties scheduled, so not only will there be lots of fun activities, I'm sure the video coverage will be priceless.
Not sure what they have planned? Here's a web page that describes their planned activities in detail.... maybe too much detail!
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=teabagging
They got all these teabagging parties scheduled, so not only will there be lots of fun activities, I'm sure the video coverage will be priceless.
Not sure what they have planned? Here's a web page that describes their planned activities in detail.... maybe too much detail!
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=teabagging
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Fun, Music-filled Video.
Thanks to Redvale over at Twitter, I learned about this little film. Watch and enjoy:
http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=2539741
Thanks to Redvale over at Twitter, I learned about this little film. Watch and enjoy:
http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=2539741
Saturday, April 04, 2009
Fun Golf video on Youtube.
I'm not a golfer but I found this video to be rather astounding... if you can afford it.
http://www.crunchgear.com/2009/04/03/golf-holersquos-tee-box-is-1400-feet-above-the-green/
I'm not a golfer but I found this video to be rather astounding... if you can afford it.
http://www.crunchgear.com/2009/04/03/golf-holersquos-tee-box-is-1400-feet-above-the-green/
Friday, April 03, 2009
Rot In Hell Drudge- Part 1
Proof that right wing fools like him are only in it for the money..
http://wonkette.com/407530/hey-this-is-not-appropriate-matt-drudge
Proof that right wing fools like him are only in it for the money..
http://wonkette.com/407530/hey-this-is-not-appropriate-matt-drudge
Binghamton NY Tragedy - Take Action
If you are upset, divert your anger to a good cause:
http://www.bradycampaign.org/action/getconnected/
If you are upset, divert your anger to a good cause:
http://www.bradycampaign.org/action/getconnected/
Harman Stabs Fellow Dems in Back!
Rep. Jane Harman [D, CA-36] voted with Repugs to gut the Grayson bill, allowing the Banks which received TARP money, to pay bonuses as they want. Someone should ask how much the banks had to contribute to her campaigns to get her vote.
I trust her actions will be scrutinized during her next election cycle.
For more on the story, Firedoglake has more detail.
Rep. Jane Harman [D, CA-36] voted with Repugs to gut the Grayson bill, allowing the Banks which received TARP money, to pay bonuses as they want. Someone should ask how much the banks had to contribute to her campaigns to get her vote.
I trust her actions will be scrutinized during her next election cycle.
For more on the story, Firedoglake has more detail.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Fave Wingnut Photo of the Day
Saw this at Crooks and Liars blog. Made me chuckle... perhaps you will too. We all admire competence, right?
Photo credit:
(TIA ANN CHAPMAN / HARTFORD COURANT
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Frank Partnoy: Derivative Dangers
Listen to him on Fresh Air at the link below as he explains how derivatives work, how they began, why he used to sell them and how now he will have nothing to do with them.
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=102325715
Star Wars Gadgest Cont'd
Gotta have one of these:
See them at this site: http://www.firebox.com/product/2158/Star-Wars-Phone-Flashers
Gotta have one of these:
See them at this site: http://www.firebox.com/product/2158/Star-Wars-Phone-Flashers
Economic Meltdown Had Warning in 1999!
Very interesting story on the FireDogLake blog about Senator Byron Dorgan who called this economic mess, very accurately, almost alarmingly so.
Read and watch the video with Maddow here:
http://christyhardinsmith.firedoglake.com/2009/03/26/kudos-to-sen-byron-dorgan/
Very interesting story on the FireDogLake blog about Senator Byron Dorgan who called this economic mess, very accurately, almost alarmingly so.
Read and watch the video with Maddow here:
http://christyhardinsmith.firedoglake.com/2009/03/26/kudos-to-sen-byron-dorgan/
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Sex, Spitzer, Derivatives: Using Our Outrage
Fascinating reading. I would like to think that Obama administration members read this and take appropriate action, using the outrage as justification for making politically difficult remedies.
I won't be holding my breath, tho.
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
We Star Wars Fans Have New Cause To Celebrate!!
Wow, am I excited! A new Star Wars toy, one that every fan should have... and why has no one thought of it before.
Yes, I'm talking about a Darth Vader Hula Doll for you dashboard. See for yourself:
Follow the link below to find out how this work of art came to be!! And watch the video of Darth doing the hula. The force is strong with him.
http://community.livejournal.com/starwarscrafts/63882.html
Wow, am I excited! A new Star Wars toy, one that every fan should have... and why has no one thought of it before.
Yes, I'm talking about a Darth Vader Hula Doll for you dashboard. See for yourself:
Follow the link below to find out how this work of art came to be!! And watch the video of Darth doing the hula. The force is strong with him.
http://community.livejournal.com/starwarscrafts/63882.html
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Wine Recommendations!
Since I am fortunate enough to live here in Provence-like Sonoma county, I frequently get requests for wine recommendations. Apparently there is an impression "out there" that I qualify as a wino.
The correct word in enophile, thank you very much.
So, here are three wines that Kay and I drink often, me more than her, each under $10 here in the county (might be higher out of state, if available). We are especially fortunate that we are close to several wineries that periodically have warehouse type sales, open to the local public only. We are drinking a Viansa Barbera that was sold in such a manner just before the holidays. Fab stuff and only $5 a bottle, since it was all overrun and they wanted to dump it, so to speak.
Anyway, here are the three:
Menage a Trois is a blend of Rhone style reds and is available nationally, thanks to it being purchased by a conglomerate from the local Napa owners. I put a detailed shot so you can see how the name is spelled. There is also a white version. Usually around $9.
Next is a Chilean Sauvignon Blanc that I really enjoy. Very typical of the style, very crisp, minerally with tons of fruit. There is a strong connection between Chilean and CA winemakers
.
This Laurier Cab is a fruit bomb. Blended nicely from several vineyards, I think it's the runoff of a well known Napa winery that chooses to remain anonymous. This is usually priced in the $8 a bottle range, tho I find it on sale for just under $7 here. Cost Plus World Market might have this, Trader Joes does not.
Since I am fortunate enough to live here in Provence-like Sonoma county, I frequently get requests for wine recommendations. Apparently there is an impression "out there" that I qualify as a wino.
The correct word in enophile, thank you very much.
So, here are three wines that Kay and I drink often, me more than her, each under $10 here in the county (might be higher out of state, if available). We are especially fortunate that we are close to several wineries that periodically have warehouse type sales, open to the local public only. We are drinking a Viansa Barbera that was sold in such a manner just before the holidays. Fab stuff and only $5 a bottle, since it was all overrun and they wanted to dump it, so to speak.
Anyway, here are the three:
Menage a Trois is a blend of Rhone style reds and is available nationally, thanks to it being purchased by a conglomerate from the local Napa owners. I put a detailed shot so you can see how the name is spelled. There is also a white version. Usually around $9.
Next is a Chilean Sauvignon Blanc that I really enjoy. Very typical of the style, very crisp, minerally with tons of fruit. There is a strong connection between Chilean and CA winemakers
.This Laurier Cab is a fruit bomb. Blended nicely from several vineyards, I think it's the runoff of a well known Napa winery that chooses to remain anonymous. This is usually priced in the $8 a bottle range, tho I find it on sale for just under $7 here. Cost Plus World Market might have this, Trader Joes does not.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Fun News From Daily Kos.
That wonderful republican side show continues. Sometimes, when on a bad roll, it's best to quit. But nooooo...
Read this story:
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/3/22/711845/-BeavisButt-Head-vs.-The-Volcano
That wonderful republican side show continues. Sometimes, when on a bad roll, it's best to quit. But nooooo...
Read this story:
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/3/22/711845/-BeavisButt-Head-vs.-The-Volcano
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Flashback: It Was Bush, GOP That Opposed Executive Compensation Caps
Republicans conveniently forget their duplicity and the corporate press never seem to remember it either. Grleat post.
About Mitch McConnell
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
Monday, March 16, 2009
Attention Star Wars Fans!!
Found an incredible little Star Wars item on a British web site, link below. Perfect for when you're in a meeting where the phones have to be off but you would like to know when you get a call. Also a good way to let other people know just how "ahead of the curve" you are.
http://www.firebox.com/product/2158/Star-Wars-Phone-Flashers
Found an incredible little Star Wars item on a British web site, link below. Perfect for when you're in a meeting where the phones have to be off but you would like to know when you get a call. Also a good way to let other people know just how "ahead of the curve" you are.
http://www.firebox.com/product/2158/Star-Wars-Phone-Flashers
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Sure Signs of Spring!
One, the flowers are erupting into bursts of color, as this daffodil photo demonstrates:
Two, the birthday children get together for the annual food and wine bash, this time Chez Moi and Kay. Judy has the same birthday as me, March 20; Richard's is the 21st and Susan's the 22nd. Photo taken last night (Saturday) in an early gathering this year. A good time was had by all and no one got their clothes dirty!
Photo lineup:Me, Richard, Susan and Judy.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
"Dotcom(e) Again" - A Story in the Works.
I've decided that the world needs to know the reasons why so many internet companies (Twitter, Second Life, 12Seconds.tv, et al) are headquartered in San Francisco and the Bay Area. What is it about this area that germinates so many successful media entities that become part of the national mediascape? Inquiring minds want to know, so I am beginning a series of interviews with CEO's of many of these companies to get their takes on it. Stay tuned!!
And if you know of a dotcom startup that is doing well, pass it along to me so I can include it in my story (whose publisher must remain anonymous at this time).
I've decided that the world needs to know the reasons why so many internet companies (Twitter, Second Life, 12Seconds.tv, et al) are headquartered in San Francisco and the Bay Area. What is it about this area that germinates so many successful media entities that become part of the national mediascape? Inquiring minds want to know, so I am beginning a series of interviews with CEO's of many of these companies to get their takes on it. Stay tuned!!
And if you know of a dotcom startup that is doing well, pass it along to me so I can include it in my story (whose publisher must remain anonymous at this time).
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
New 12 Second TV post
I just posted a new video, 12 seconds long, at this address:
http://12seconds.tv/channel/Biscuitboy/108734
let me know what you think!!
I just posted a new video, 12 seconds long, at this address:
http://12seconds.tv/channel/Biscuitboy/108734
let me know what you think!!
Monday, March 09, 2009
Watch This Space - New Video Coming!!
Soon as I upload from my Sony Mini-DV tape deck, I have a fun video clip of Tom Smothers demonstrating a yo-yo trick on stage at a Sonoma Valley Wine Auction several years ago. He gave me permission to post it when our paths crossed in Santa Rosa a few weeks ago. I had to do a conversion from DVCAM to mini-dv so that I could use it in my player.
Let me know what you think, once it is up.... probably tonight or tomorrow for sure.
Soon as I upload from my Sony Mini-DV tape deck, I have a fun video clip of Tom Smothers demonstrating a yo-yo trick on stage at a Sonoma Valley Wine Auction several years ago. He gave me permission to post it when our paths crossed in Santa Rosa a few weeks ago. I had to do a conversion from DVCAM to mini-dv so that I could use it in my player.
Let me know what you think, once it is up.... probably tonight or tomorrow for sure.
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Mainstream Media Getting It All Wrong - Again!
Here's a website I monitor a lot to get progressive news coverage. Today's entry that caught my eye:
Here's a website I monitor a lot to get progressive news coverage. Today's entry that caught my eye:
Memo to the media
by kos
Wed Mar 04, 2009 at 09:50:04 AM PST
Dear media,
95 percent of Americans are getting a tax cut with Obama's budget. So framing this as a tax hike makes you look pretty stupid. And dishonest. And wrong. So stop it.
Hugs and kisses,
kosFriday, February 27, 2009
RIP Delaney Bramlett
I just learned today that Delaney Bramlett passed away in December. Us flower children remember him and Bonnie making great music in the 60's and 70's. "Never Ending Song of Love" was always a favorite of mine. Eric Clapton owes a lot to Delaney, and acknowledged it on many occasions. I have a link to an old video performance featuring George Harrison and Eric Clapton as well as Jim Gordon on sax. Well worth the viewing.
Very sorry to hear about him leaving us. I gotto go dig out some Derek and the Dominos music, since he played on those albums too!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EOxy3TF3OY
I just learned today that Delaney Bramlett passed away in December. Us flower children remember him and Bonnie making great music in the 60's and 70's. "Never Ending Song of Love" was always a favorite of mine. Eric Clapton owes a lot to Delaney, and acknowledged it on many occasions. I have a link to an old video performance featuring George Harrison and Eric Clapton as well as Jim Gordon on sax. Well worth the viewing.
Very sorry to hear about him leaving us. I gotto go dig out some Derek and the Dominos music, since he played on those albums too!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EOxy3TF3OY
Friday, February 20, 2009
Wanted: Sony DSR-300A Video Camera!
This is what it looks like. I have missed two on eBay now... need it to replace the Sony PD-100A that I used to tape Camille's Tango video. DVCAM format, which is a pro, broadcast quality format, digital and easy to integrate with my Apple Final Cut Pro editing system.
This is what it looks like. I have missed two on eBay now... need it to replace the Sony PD-100A that I used to tape Camille's Tango video. DVCAM format, which is a pro, broadcast quality format, digital and easy to integrate with my Apple Final Cut Pro editing system.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
ATT Now Says iPhone Has Shipped!!
What an amazing turn of events... one day after getting the backordered notice, here comes an email saying that the iPhone has shipped, complete with FedEx tracking number... so now I'm just keeping an eye out for the truck to show up... then the learning curve begins!!
Now, if Apple would only come up with a way to use Skype on the iPhone.
What an amazing turn of events... one day after getting the backordered notice, here comes an email saying that the iPhone has shipped, complete with FedEx tracking number... so now I'm just keeping an eye out for the truck to show up... then the learning curve begins!!
Now, if Apple would only come up with a way to use Skype on the iPhone.
Monday, February 09, 2009
ATT's Service Sucks....
At least the "The AT&T Premier Team" does... now it turns out that the iPhone which they were selling to employees, 3G. 8gb, are now on backorder... despite the fact that the order form said in stock at the time Kay paid for it.
I felt all along that ATT could not keep up with the demand.. these are Factory Refurbished models, which is why they are $50 cheaper than all the other deals. Comes with Apple one year warranty so I have no qualms about buying it. But, they can't meet the damand and of course there are only so many refurbished ones anyway.
So I got all excited for nothing. Who knows how long it will be.
At least the "The AT&T Premier Team" does... now it turns out that the iPhone which they were selling to employees, 3G. 8gb, are now on backorder... despite the fact that the order form said in stock at the time Kay paid for it.
I felt all along that ATT could not keep up with the demand.. these are Factory Refurbished models, which is why they are $50 cheaper than all the other deals. Comes with Apple one year warranty so I have no qualms about buying it. But, they can't meet the damand and of course there are only so many refurbished ones anyway.
So I got all excited for nothing. Who knows how long it will be.
Sunday, February 08, 2009
Sebastopol's Paris Connection- Who Knew?
Picture below is of a major Paris thoroughfare....Sebastopol Blvd. Took this shot back in 05 when Kay and I were in Paris together for the first time. It's near the Pompedieu center (I'll check that spelling and get back to you), not too far from the Louvre.
Consider this your geography lesson for the day.
Picture below is of a major Paris thoroughfare....Sebastopol Blvd. Took this shot back in 05 when Kay and I were in Paris together for the first time. It's near the Pompedieu center (I'll check that spelling and get back to you), not too far from the Louvre.
Consider this your geography lesson for the day.
Bluetooth The New Passenger in Our QX4!
The little gadget over there is a Motorola T305 Bluetooth speakerphone which is making life behind the wheel much easier
these days for Kay as she commutes to Petaluma.
Fits on the visor and linked to her cell phone, she can now make calls to me while on the road without breaking the "no hand held devices" law here in CA. I can attest that it works well; very little background noise and I can hear her very clearly.
Tip: don't buy one at the ATT store, which Kay did, cause they are going for less than $30 on eBay, where I am actively bidding these days for one of my own, to go with my iPhone, if it ever arrives (see below).
Saturday, February 07, 2009
HDMI cont'd.
Remember this photo:
Shows my set up using component video connections from my Dish Receiver to our Panasonic Viera Plasma monitor. Also in the pic is the HDMI cable, the dark on the right, altho I am not using it at the moment. The big difference between the two cables, and one I failed to mention, is that you would use the HDMI to connect if you were using the TV monitor's speakers. HDMI sends uncompreseed video and audio thru the same cable. I don't use it cause I have a separate audio feed going to my AV receiver/amp. The component (RGB) signal is equal in quality to HDMI (or better). However, when I get a blu-ray dvd player I will use the HDMI cable to connect it to the TV.
Twang Ditty is a new favorite band!
Check them out here.
I'll be there this Sunday when they play the Ace in the Hole Pub in Sebastopol.
I may even come back with some video.
Check them out here.
I'll be there this Sunday when they play the Ace in the Hole Pub in Sebastopol.
I may even come back with some video.
Still Waiting for iPhone!
Yes, I bought a 3g 8gb from ATT's employee program but have yet to receive it!! They promised 2-5 days, has now been over 10 days... my friend Thomas Savellit at Focus Audio Visual, has one and has been showing me some of the apps!! The GPS-Google Earth combination works great!
I'll get a pic up of me using it if I ever receive it.
Yes, I bought a 3g 8gb from ATT's employee program but have yet to receive it!! They promised 2-5 days, has now been over 10 days... my friend Thomas Savellit at Focus Audio Visual, has one and has been showing me some of the apps!! The GPS-Google Earth combination works great!
I'll get a pic up of me using it if I ever receive it.
Friday, February 06, 2009
Just in - Video production stills!
Thanks to Richard, who edited the video, I have some video production stills to show...
Used my Sony PD100A DVCAM camera which shoots beautiful images on Mini-DV tapes, also will operate in the 16x9 format, tho we didn't use that in this video. Arri light kit for lights and Camille did the rest.
Thanks to Richard, who edited the video, I have some video production stills to show...
Used my Sony PD100A DVCAM camera which shoots beautiful images on Mini-DV tapes, also will operate in the 16x9 format, tho we didn't use that in this video. Arri light kit for lights and Camille did the rest.
Camille's Video Now Showing on her Website.
Richard and I finished Camille's video promoting her new book, "Tango: An Argentine Love Story" just before she headed back down to Argentina. You can watch it yourself at CamilleCusumano.com.
And feel free to let us know what you think of it... and if you want a video of your own, let us know. Our new startup, ClickWebSpots.com is here to get you onto all those webvideo sites!!
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Bailed-Out Wells Fargo Plans Vegas Casino Junkets
"Chase recently received $25 billion in federal funding. What effect will that have on the business side and will it change our strategic lending policy?"
Chase is now raising interest rate on its credit cards.... out of the blue, I have a perfect credit history, but now I am expected to pay an additional 7% interest or APR. This after getting all that taxpayer money.
AAA members who have Chase cards (it's the official AAA Visa partner) will suddenly find that the advantage of using your Chase card to save money has disappeared.
Needless to say, I'm doing a balance transfer to my Citi card which so far has remained stable.
Chase apparently thinks we are all sheep.
About Bailout Bandits
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
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Here’s a piece about the son of our local rep, right wing nut Paul Broun