I have a hobby. It involves food. This weekend, while my dear Jeff was camping in Death Valley, I was at home trying to make myself study for an exam, do research for a paper on postpartum psychosis, finish a piece for our writing group, clean the apartment, work out and organize our finances. The apartment is cleaner, I’m worked out, the laundry is clean and folded, my credit card is paid, the short story is posted, and by end of weekend, I have a good start on the whole exam thing with Monday to cement it.
But back to my hobby. I figured I needed some fun. Fun in my terms involves trying new restaurants, trying new foods, getting a feel for the character of the place. I’m fortunate that my neighborhood is chock-full of restaurants, some of which are brand new. And, figured I could do some recon for when Jeff gets back, maybe find our new favorite place. I tried two places; here are the results.
Saturday night, I tried Restaurant Three, which is located where Mama Kwan’s Tiki Bar (lasted a summer, never went there) existed before. 3 is an upscale, medium-priced (for this area) restaurant with soothing, eye-easy lighting and sophisticated seating inside and out. The group of three in front of me were told there was a half-hour wait to be seated, which seemed odd since I could see empty tables. I thought uh-oh, pretension, but I asked anyway and was pleasantly surprised when the gal said I could eat at the “VIP” bar (the smaller one) instead of waiting for a table. And the whole place is non-smoking. Jackpot! – that worked perfectly – and I was seated immediately.*
I ordered the field greens salad and then the grouper filet over risotto, with prawn, scallops and artichokes. The salad was pretty and tasty with a decent vinaigrette and diced veggie accents, but… not wow. You must understand, I’m the queen of salads. And my vinaigrettes tend to be spicy, which seems to be an odd concept in the mainstream [perspective, folks]. The grouper dish was very tasty, fresh and substantial, but why do all these upscale places have to over-salt their food? I had the same experience at Liberty Tavern, with an otherwise delicious gnocchi dish. Also, except for the sautéed grape tomatoes, the dish looked kind of beige – could have used some delicate asparagus spears for color. The bartender/waiter was attentive yet not overbearing and the manager came out to introduce himself and applaud my tolerance of a Polish businessman who had been bending my ear. It was altogether a pleasant evening and I’d certainly be willing to go there again with Jeff and try some new stuff.
The other night, I tried Me Jana, a new Lebanese place in the spot where the very bland Sala Thai used to be (I didn’t expect that S/T would last as it had direct competition from a number of non-bland Thai places within a block). Anyhoo, was very interested in trying the place & I think I found our new favorite place, just a block away! Me Jana has a wonderful menu of reasonably-priced hot and cold mezzes as well as some higher-priced main courses. For the money though, I think anyone would be very happy ordering a few of the small plates. I had the fettoush and zucchini fritters for dinner. The fettoush was what I would consider a perfect salad with a tangy vinaigrette, tomatoes, Italian parsley, radishes and cucumbers – and not over-salted. The “fritters,” more like little patties, had mint and were served with a delightful, garlicky sauce. Again, not over-salted. I then tried one of the desserts, I think called Halewat, which was some sort of soft cheese with a sort of syrup and pistachios – very nice and different. The dish looked small and delicate, but I definitely could have shared it – very dense and maybe due to my slight lactose intolerance, made me very full. All the flavors were very distinct and bright, as were the presentations. The service was very attentive and I didn’t have to wait for “my” waiter to accommodate, the wait-staff seemed to be tag-teaming. And I gathered that the place was non-smoking! I REALLY want to go back with Jeff and try a bunch of new things. This place was a stand-out and would be a great place for a book club meeting (hint, hint) or for any casual and relaxing evening among friends.
*Very few restaurants are worth a half-hour wait. Anything more than that is ridiculous – there are so many good restaurants that would value your patronage. As a matter of fact, if I hadn’t been seated so quickly, I would have marched down to our favorite sushi place – and I know they would be happy to see me!
Monday, October 22, 2007
Friday, October 19, 2007
A nasty frame of mind
I'm sitting here in the coffee/gourmet shop on the ground floor of my apartment building, trying to finish a piece for my writing group. Two different groups around me are having VERY LOUD and EMOTIVE conversations in spanish.
What comes to mind besides "shut up" and/or "speak English" is "ya'll are invading my country and my government is doing less than nothing about it. In fact, they're aiding and abetting it. Unbelievable!" I'm thinking some other things, but they're not really printable.
Nice to think that my country will become the same cesspool as so many latin american countries if this is allowed to continue. I really need to start finding the time to write letters to those who "represent" me - before it's too late.
What comes to mind besides "shut up" and/or "speak English" is "ya'll are invading my country and my government is doing less than nothing about it. In fact, they're aiding and abetting it. Unbelievable!" I'm thinking some other things, but they're not really printable.
Nice to think that my country will become the same cesspool as so many latin american countries if this is allowed to continue. I really need to start finding the time to write letters to those who "represent" me - before it's too late.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Book Review: A Thousand Splendid Suns
A Thousand Splendid Suns, by Khaled Hosseini, tells the story of two Afghan women whose lives intersect forcibly through their marriage to the same abusive man. It reveals, through their lives and experiences, the turbulent, harsh and often chaotic history of Afghanistan.
What is immediately apparent is that Hosseini is a wonderful story-telller. You start reading, then suddenly realize you're half-way through the book. He pulls you in right away and makes you care about his characters; they provoke some sort of response right off the bat. What I appreciated, though, was that Hosseini's characters were rather nuanced, not easy stereotypes. Even the “villains” have their soft spots, which you can at least acknowledge, yet still revile them.
A Thousand Splendid Suns was a thoroughly enjoyable read. I didn’t compare the book to Hosseini’s first story, The Kite Runner, because I haven’t read it yet. Folks who have read both, however, say this is even better than Kite Runner. Hmmm…I’ll have to find that out for myself. In closing I’ll say that unlike some stories I've read which are set in Afghanistan, this leaves the reader with a sense of optimism.
What is immediately apparent is that Hosseini is a wonderful story-telller. You start reading, then suddenly realize you're half-way through the book. He pulls you in right away and makes you care about his characters; they provoke some sort of response right off the bat. What I appreciated, though, was that Hosseini's characters were rather nuanced, not easy stereotypes. Even the “villains” have their soft spots, which you can at least acknowledge, yet still revile them.
A Thousand Splendid Suns was a thoroughly enjoyable read. I didn’t compare the book to Hosseini’s first story, The Kite Runner, because I haven’t read it yet. Folks who have read both, however, say this is even better than Kite Runner. Hmmm…I’ll have to find that out for myself. In closing I’ll say that unlike some stories I've read which are set in Afghanistan, this leaves the reader with a sense of optimism.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Random Bamboo
This last Saturday, we went hiking at Great Falls with a friend of ours. It was the perfect day for a hike - not too hot, not too cool - and we saw many cool things on the trail - the falls, deer, interesting fungi, other hikers and their dogs, runners and cyclists (all observing “trail etiquette,” I must say). One of the coolest things, though, was this random wall of bamboo at a random place along the trail. It was so neat and unexpected. I wondered why we don’t see more bamboo since it basically grows anywhere, provides very effective shade and cover, and probably is good for preventing soil erosion. All that, and you can make stuff with it.
Book Review: Memoirs of a Geisha
Memoirs of a Geisha, by Arthur Golden, tells the enchanting and bittersweet tale of a girl sold into a slavery that ultimately gives her a sense of purpose, her own beauty and strength. It’s also about a culture that is all but extinct in its native country; through this poignant fiction the reader gets a sense of that history through the author‘s obviously extensive research. Mostly, though, Memoirs is just such a beautifully written story and Golden does an uncanny job of portraying the sensibilities of the young apprentice as she navigates the treacherous and demanding, yet exquisite life of a geisha.
Book Review: Invasion
In Invasion: How America Still Welcomes Terrorists, Criminals, and Other Foreign Menaces to Our Shores, Michelle Malkin gives us a sobering and quite frankly, anxiety-provoking look at how our government has abdicated one of its most basic and critical charges, that of national security. She backs up her assertions with lots of solid research and concrete examples of failures from whatever source - incompetence, inattention, bureaucratic inertia, political posturing, you name it - and shows that there are many who have and are presently taking advantage of those substantial chinks in the armor. It got my blood boiling, especially in light of the fact that I’m financially supporting - as are all taxpayers in this country - a system that reinforces its own mistakes and poor judgment, and puts all of us in increasing peril. The take-away is this: we as Americans, cannot afford to be lulled by vague promises; rather, we must hold our government accountable for the job we hired it to do.
Friday, October 05, 2007
Treo "premium" hard case
A month and a half ago, I ordered a metallic red hard case cover for my Treo 680 to protect it from the "ravages" of my purse/satchel. Initially, the cover looked sharp, seemed secure and was very reasonably priced ($4.95 plus shipping); however, after using it under normal conditions (not extreme, didn't drop it or throw it around) for a month and a half, the case is crumbling at the connect points, making it useless. Not only that, but the red coating has been chipping off around the edges and at the stylus insertion site for a while. I contacted the vendor, Accessory Export, and they said they have a 30-day return/exchange policy and but that they have no control over normal wear and tear. After this unacceptable response and a shoddy product that lasted 1.5 months, I will not buy anything more from this vendor & will certainly not replace this case with another of the same product. Caveat emptor!
Thursday, October 04, 2007
It's for the chiiiildddren!
This SCHIP business burns me up. As a matter of fact, the only part I like is that the proposed expansion would be funded with cigarette taxes. Trust me, there are enough die-hard (heh) smokers still around to fund a program.
But back to the story. Advocates of this program reference all the uninsured CHILDREN who desperately need coverage. Now, this involves all those NOT covered by Medicaid. So, we're talking about children from MIDDLE CLASS families.
First, it's politically expedient (especially on the left) to verbally isolate CHILDREN as if they just popped up on their own, defenseless, and need to be taken care of. This rhetoric disregards and relieves of the responsibility, the duties and obligations of the PARENTS. Now, I believe that anyone who cannot provide ALL the basic requirements for children - healthcare definitely included - should not have the children in the first place. But what still endures from the hippie days is that freedom (e.g., sexual freedom and "reproductive freedom" and in this case) means doing anything you want regardless of the consequences and sloughing off the responsibility of those consequences to someone else.
Second, this program is to cover those children whose parents make too much to be eligible for Medicaid. So, we're increasing the level of the nanny state for those who are middle class. There's a lot of talk about those parents who work hard and yet have no healthcare coverage. Why not? If you had kids, wouldn't you target jobs that offered healthcare coverage as part of the compensation package? I mean, when I was working at GWU Medical Center, everyone who was a full-time, permanent employee - regardless of pay-grade - had access to a selection of HMOs & PPOs, partially subsidized by GWU.
Third, proponents claim that illegals are excluded from this program. And because the federal government has done such a terrific job of keeping them out of the country, I really believe they can keep them from taking advantage of this program too. Sarcasm. You got that?
So, what this expansion of an EXISTING program means bigger nanny state, less personal responsibility expected of the parents and people in general, and you can take advantage of this even if you're middle class and probably even if you're illegal. BAD.
Here's a recent article about President Bush's veto of the current version of this bill, fyi.
But back to the story. Advocates of this program reference all the uninsured CHILDREN who desperately need coverage. Now, this involves all those NOT covered by Medicaid. So, we're talking about children from MIDDLE CLASS families.
First, it's politically expedient (especially on the left) to verbally isolate CHILDREN as if they just popped up on their own, defenseless, and need to be taken care of. This rhetoric disregards and relieves of the responsibility, the duties and obligations of the PARENTS. Now, I believe that anyone who cannot provide ALL the basic requirements for children - healthcare definitely included - should not have the children in the first place. But what still endures from the hippie days is that freedom (e.g., sexual freedom and "reproductive freedom" and in this case) means doing anything you want regardless of the consequences and sloughing off the responsibility of those consequences to someone else.
Second, this program is to cover those children whose parents make too much to be eligible for Medicaid. So, we're increasing the level of the nanny state for those who are middle class. There's a lot of talk about those parents who work hard and yet have no healthcare coverage. Why not? If you had kids, wouldn't you target jobs that offered healthcare coverage as part of the compensation package? I mean, when I was working at GWU Medical Center, everyone who was a full-time, permanent employee - regardless of pay-grade - had access to a selection of HMOs & PPOs, partially subsidized by GWU.
Third, proponents claim that illegals are excluded from this program. And because the federal government has done such a terrific job of keeping them out of the country, I really believe they can keep them from taking advantage of this program too. Sarcasm. You got that?
So, what this expansion of an EXISTING program means bigger nanny state, less personal responsibility expected of the parents and people in general, and you can take advantage of this even if you're middle class and probably even if you're illegal. BAD.
Here's a recent article about President Bush's veto of the current version of this bill, fyi.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Treo 680 learning curve...
...getting shallower! I recently loaded "Documents to Go," cut-down, PDA friendly versions of Word, Excel & Acrobat that came with the Treo, onto my desk-top.
As you know, I have a sucky class schedule, especially on Tuesdays, that involves my shuttling and metro-ing back and forth between apt and school, essentially wasting a lot of time. Well, in my unending quest to make this time somewhat productive, I started using the Word application on my Treo and guess what? I did most of a critical review on my tiny superphone! Wahoo! Then when I got home, all I had to do to transfer the file to my desk-top was synchronize the Treo (which is a good idea to do regularly anyway, to back up your calendar and contact updates).
Oh, did I mention that you can attach photos to your contact list entries? That's a cool feature. But not as cool as using some otherwise deadtime to actually produce do homework...or craft blog entries...or...
Enough already, I must sleep!
As you know, I have a sucky class schedule, especially on Tuesdays, that involves my shuttling and metro-ing back and forth between apt and school, essentially wasting a lot of time. Well, in my unending quest to make this time somewhat productive, I started using the Word application on my Treo and guess what? I did most of a critical review on my tiny superphone! Wahoo! Then when I got home, all I had to do to transfer the file to my desk-top was synchronize the Treo (which is a good idea to do regularly anyway, to back up your calendar and contact updates).
Oh, did I mention that you can attach photos to your contact list entries? That's a cool feature. But not as cool as using some otherwise deadtime to actually produce do homework...or craft blog entries...or...
Enough already, I must sleep!
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Famous sister-in-law
Brother Chris's wife Steph was featured in an article in the Baltimore Sun about a very interesting dig she was on (both she and Chris are archaeologists). Steph's the one holding the tile and if you click on "The Search for Artifacts," you can see her in action. Cool, huh? Congrats, Steph!
Monday, September 24, 2007
Restaurant Review: Ella's Pizza
On Saturday, DH Jeff & I went out with brother Chris and wife Steph to celebrate their birthdays. Chris suggested we try Ella's Pizza which had gotten good reviews for their pizza, sangria, and also had a nice list of small plates that looked interesting. Well, I would highly recommend this bright, cheery and easy-going restaurant. We tried a variety of things including some small plates, salad, some pizzas (a little larger than strictly "personal" size), cocktails, sangria, desserts.
Here are some highlights:
- The small plates: basically tapas - really good, fresh and gourmet (think fresh herbs, shaved parmesan). We had one with asparagus & one with shitake mushrooms. One could just have a meal of several of those and be happy.
- The pizzas were noteworthy as well. We chose, three of the "standard" (off the menu) pizzas that looked interesting: one with mushrooms & goat cheese, one with pepperoni and one with onions and gorgonzola. All tasty and habit-forming (they went very quickly), but my favorite was the mushroom and goat cheese - plenty of wonderful shitake with slightly tart, soft goat cheese. If you wish to guide your own toppings, you can do that, too.
- For dessert, we tried the trio of fresh ice creams (choco-choco chip, caramel and vanilla), the tiramisu and the chocolate pudding. Although I'm not such a dessert person, everything was really good and not cloyingly sweet. Since they have changing fresh ice cream selections, I would be inclined to try others they may offer.
- Ella's has a full bar and offers some specialty drinks. I tried the Ellatini, which reminds me of my version of a Cosmo: pink, sweet-tart. I'd definitely have it again. The sangria is also good, though I'm not sure if I prefer it to, let's say, Jaleo's version.
Ella's has something for everyone, including plenty of vegetarian selections (salads, small plates, pizza), and is very reasonably priced. The place is casual, friendly, and they didn't mind seating DH Jeff & I before Chris and Steph arrived. Definitely a keeper!
Here are some highlights:
- The small plates: basically tapas - really good, fresh and gourmet (think fresh herbs, shaved parmesan). We had one with asparagus & one with shitake mushrooms. One could just have a meal of several of those and be happy.
- The pizzas were noteworthy as well. We chose, three of the "standard" (off the menu) pizzas that looked interesting: one with mushrooms & goat cheese, one with pepperoni and one with onions and gorgonzola. All tasty and habit-forming (they went very quickly), but my favorite was the mushroom and goat cheese - plenty of wonderful shitake with slightly tart, soft goat cheese. If you wish to guide your own toppings, you can do that, too.
- For dessert, we tried the trio of fresh ice creams (choco-choco chip, caramel and vanilla), the tiramisu and the chocolate pudding. Although I'm not such a dessert person, everything was really good and not cloyingly sweet. Since they have changing fresh ice cream selections, I would be inclined to try others they may offer.
- Ella's has a full bar and offers some specialty drinks. I tried the Ellatini, which reminds me of my version of a Cosmo: pink, sweet-tart. I'd definitely have it again. The sangria is also good, though I'm not sure if I prefer it to, let's say, Jaleo's version.
Ella's has something for everyone, including plenty of vegetarian selections (salads, small plates, pizza), and is very reasonably priced. The place is casual, friendly, and they didn't mind seating DH Jeff & I before Chris and Steph arrived. Definitely a keeper!
Friday, September 21, 2007
Book Review: Devil in the White City
Devil in the White City, by Erik Larson, tells the incredible story of the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago: the fight to hold it in Chicago; the drive to out-do the previous French-held World’s Fair; the desire to garner world admiration and respect not only for the U.S., but specifically for Chicago; the personalities involved in the planning, design and execution of this monumental feat. It also told of Herman Webster Mudgett, an especially prolific serial killer who preyed on the scores of women (and others) who came to Chicago during this time for work, excitement and independence. I take it this is the “devil” in the title, but that “devil” could also refer to the Fair itself and its genesis, i.e., the devil is in the details.
I really enjoyed this book because it enlightened me about an event and an era about which I knew very little. The story of the Fair, this amazing idea-made-reality, was, especially when time was short and things didn’t look too promising for a successful opening, an act of sheer will and of sterling minds over matter to make it happen. The book was also about this horrendous sociopath who took advantage of the environment of the times and of the Fair, to satisfy his diabolical urges. I found this aspect of the story compelling as well…but thought they were two distinct stories which would have been better told as separate, i.e., in different books. Minor matter – it’s very much worth the read. And I now know the origin of the Ferris Wheel.
I really enjoyed this book because it enlightened me about an event and an era about which I knew very little. The story of the Fair, this amazing idea-made-reality, was, especially when time was short and things didn’t look too promising for a successful opening, an act of sheer will and of sterling minds over matter to make it happen. The book was also about this horrendous sociopath who took advantage of the environment of the times and of the Fair, to satisfy his diabolical urges. I found this aspect of the story compelling as well…but thought they were two distinct stories which would have been better told as separate, i.e., in different books. Minor matter – it’s very much worth the read. And I now know the origin of the Ferris Wheel.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
One of my least favorite things
One of my abiding attitudes is my aversion to depending on others. I really would prefer to just to do everything myself - that way, if things fall through, the only person to blame is myself and I don't have to deal with the "vagaries" of someone else's mentality, schedule, "foibles." Plus, I'm really reliable.
Yesterday, I was pondering this thought as I waited six minutes for the metro; then getting on the escalator at Ballston on the left side, waiting for the two self-absorbed morons in front of me to move along (stand to the right, walk to the left - how difficult a concept is that?) so I could catch my Marymount shuttle, only to get to the pick-up point and see the shuttle drive off, therein leaving me the specter of having to wait for another shuttle, twenty minutes off & making me late for my class. I took a cab instead. I was disgruntled. Not only did I waste precious time, but had the aggravation of seeing my school fees wasted on a system I couldn't count on. Uggh. And $10 for the cab.
Moral of the story: Be self-reliant and avoid depending on others. Sometimes folks come thru, but don't count on it. I'm going to find other ways of getting to/from school that don't involve a lot of waiting around. And invest in a laptop. More on this story as it develops...
Yesterday, I was pondering this thought as I waited six minutes for the metro; then getting on the escalator at Ballston on the left side, waiting for the two self-absorbed morons in front of me to move along (stand to the right, walk to the left - how difficult a concept is that?) so I could catch my Marymount shuttle, only to get to the pick-up point and see the shuttle drive off, therein leaving me the specter of having to wait for another shuttle, twenty minutes off & making me late for my class. I took a cab instead. I was disgruntled. Not only did I waste precious time, but had the aggravation of seeing my school fees wasted on a system I couldn't count on. Uggh. And $10 for the cab.
Moral of the story: Be self-reliant and avoid depending on others. Sometimes folks come thru, but don't count on it. I'm going to find other ways of getting to/from school that don't involve a lot of waiting around. And invest in a laptop. More on this story as it develops...
Thought for the day
If I'm really bored, is this a result of the situation or my lack of creativity in entertaining my mind?
Treo 680: friend or foe, revisited
Ok, there's one really irritating thing about the Treo 680, but as I understand, it's not only the Treo but all PDA-type superphones: their batteries run down super-quick, so one must essentially re-charge every day. And it takes a while to re-charge. Blah - that's a hassle!
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Who knew?
This article in Sunday's WaPo alerted me to the unlikely fact that 1) there are actually Republicans in Arlington County Government and 2) they actually give a damn about illegal immigration in Arlington. Who knew?
I think I'll make some time to shoot them some emails...
I think I'll make some time to shoot them some emails...
Sunday, September 09, 2007
Restaurant Review: The Liberty Tavern
Saturday evening I convinced DH Jeff that we needed to check out this new place in Clarendon called The Liberty Tavern. I had walked by there and had seen an area with lounge-y couches and thought, hmmm...looks like my kind of place. Then lo and behold, WaPo featured it in the Weekend Section's Fare Minded, giving it good scores for food, noting the area and even restaurant produced fare (think cheeses, butter, bread).
Ah, so it's not just a barstaurant or another one of the area's ubiquitous Irish bars! Hurrah! Here's the set-up: the ground floor is occupied by the bar, tall bar-type tables and chairs, and the lounge-y area with coffee-type tables at which you can eat and drink in a relaxed fashion. Upstairs, where we ate, is a soothing, wooden-floored dining room with cool red-shaded lighting.
We shared a very nice, light fritto misto (calamari, shrimp, zucchini spears) and a very fresh chopped salad. I had the "intermezzo" portion (a smaller portion of their entrees) of their gnocci dish and Jeff had the fish and chips. I tried the blackberry cocktail & a glass of shiraz. Food run-down: fritto misto was very good and not greasy; the chopped salad had enough field greens and blue cheese to keep me happy; the gnocci was a tad too salty but consisted of perfect little tasty pillows mixed with beans instead of the standard big, doughy lumps & the smaller portion size suited me after the well-sized appetizers; the fish and chips are HUGE and very crispy (note that before ordering heavy appetizers); and the bread basket offered a nice variety, freshly baked with wonderful whipped local butter. The drinks: Jeff didn't have anything that night, but I tried two: the blackberry cocktail was good, not cloyingly sweet, a little tart - nice, but not wowing. The shiraz was not one I was familiar with but was very enjoyable - I'd order it again. Service: our waiter was attentive, informative (food origins-wise) friendly and seemed sad to see us go without dessert. We never had to ask for water-glass refills - water-bearers were alert and proactive. The atmosphere was very comfortable and relaxing; however, the upstairs dining room does get noisy, especially when a large family came in.
I definitely want to go back and sit downstairs. The menu also has pizzas - I'd imagine the smaller, personal pizzas, which could be nice with a little salad. Oh, and did I mention - the entire place is NON-SMOKING! How enlightened.
Ah, so it's not just a barstaurant or another one of the area's ubiquitous Irish bars! Hurrah! Here's the set-up: the ground floor is occupied by the bar, tall bar-type tables and chairs, and the lounge-y area with coffee-type tables at which you can eat and drink in a relaxed fashion. Upstairs, where we ate, is a soothing, wooden-floored dining room with cool red-shaded lighting.
We shared a very nice, light fritto misto (calamari, shrimp, zucchini spears) and a very fresh chopped salad. I had the "intermezzo" portion (a smaller portion of their entrees) of their gnocci dish and Jeff had the fish and chips. I tried the blackberry cocktail & a glass of shiraz. Food run-down: fritto misto was very good and not greasy; the chopped salad had enough field greens and blue cheese to keep me happy; the gnocci was a tad too salty but consisted of perfect little tasty pillows mixed with beans instead of the standard big, doughy lumps & the smaller portion size suited me after the well-sized appetizers; the fish and chips are HUGE and very crispy (note that before ordering heavy appetizers); and the bread basket offered a nice variety, freshly baked with wonderful whipped local butter. The drinks: Jeff didn't have anything that night, but I tried two: the blackberry cocktail was good, not cloyingly sweet, a little tart - nice, but not wowing. The shiraz was not one I was familiar with but was very enjoyable - I'd order it again. Service: our waiter was attentive, informative (food origins-wise) friendly and seemed sad to see us go without dessert. We never had to ask for water-glass refills - water-bearers were alert and proactive. The atmosphere was very comfortable and relaxing; however, the upstairs dining room does get noisy, especially when a large family came in.
I definitely want to go back and sit downstairs. The menu also has pizzas - I'd imagine the smaller, personal pizzas, which could be nice with a little salad. Oh, and did I mention - the entire place is NON-SMOKING! How enlightened.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Fred is official
Fred Thompson finally declared his candidacy for president. Let's see if he actually has any ideas or positions that distinguish himself from his eight (unimpressive) competitors.
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Treo 680: friend or foe?
Well, except for the price tag and the "New AT&T," mostly friend. For instance, in the calendar function you can color code your appointments and have different views of your calendar (daily, weekly, monthly), which means I can code my workouts and see at a glance how I'm doing that week. Yeh, it's OCD, but it's meaningful to me.
Also, it has cool built-in ring tones that you can assign variously to your contact list (or even unknown callers). DH Jeff has his own special one, and there's an inoffensive flute-like one I use for general callers. And it always asks you if you want to include the "unknown" phone number in your contact list.
And, of course, being able to read my email wherever is cool. Although answering via the tiny keyboard takes a bit of practice.
Ok, that's the update.
Also, it has cool built-in ring tones that you can assign variously to your contact list (or even unknown callers). DH Jeff has his own special one, and there's an inoffensive flute-like one I use for general callers. And it always asks you if you want to include the "unknown" phone number in your contact list.
And, of course, being able to read my email wherever is cool. Although answering via the tiny keyboard takes a bit of practice.
Ok, that's the update.
More on immigration
Robert Samuelson opines that uncontrolled immigration effects "importing poverty" in this piece in yesterday's WaPo. This to me is common sense, but as he states, often overlooked in discussing poverty rates in this country. If you have a large, low paid, low-skilled, undereducated (remember, education in countries like Mexico is much more tenuous than our system) populace and has a very high fertility rate (ie, no "family planning"), then it follows that if this population is included in your census, the national poverty rate is going to be exaggerated. (Side note: evidently the Census Bureau has in the past asked agencies to halt anti-illegal proceedings/procedures so they could get an accurate count - so you know illegals are included in the census. If I had more time, I'd actually look up a link for you, but I don't, so I won't).
More localities enact their own solutions in this WaPo article and others encounter road blocks to enforcement.
Roadblocks are typically pro-illegal activist groups ("Mexicans without Borders," anyone?) that say these attempts at the re-establishing rule of law are "anti-immigrant" and "racist," and who file all sorts of law suits to stop or impede these initiatives. Sounds like the rhetoric used by another demographic to stop meaningful discussion of an issue. Then they embolden illegals to march around and protest these legal and reasonable measures (doubly reasonable and understandable considering the Feds' near-total abdication of their sworn duties).
Have any of you actually lived in Mexico (or places like it)? I have, and let me tell you, rule of law is notional. Things folks here take for granted - such as the fact that you call 911 and someone actually comes to help you - such as the fact that mostly, you can trust cops to carry out the law instead of aiding and abetting it for profit or extorting bribes out of you. These are two small examples and no, I'm not kidding. And I didn't see the worst of it. Read Daughters of Juarez for an idea of goverance (or the complete lack thereof) extant in Mexico. Do you really want to import that? It's no wonder most of these illegals don't think they've done anything wrong. But neither they nor their home country "governments" should be lecturing us on how to run OUR country.
I applaud locales (as you well know if you've read my blog for awhile) that take the initiative to deal with their very local and impactful illegal f/n (foreign national) issues. It's a pity they have so much blow-back from fellow Americans that have no clue what they're really supporting.
Update 9/6/07: Coincidentally, there's an editorial in the WaPo about the 2010 census and how ICE claims they won't halt raids for illegals during the census. Yeh, 'cause now they're getting serious about enforcement! The writer, typical of WaPo's (pro-illegal) stance, actually wants a period of non-enforcement so that the Census Bureau can get an accurate count of who's here. Uh-huh. So they can get appropriate representation or some such. Well, a halt is unlikely to reveal how many illegals are here because they're unlikely to admit as much. I say it's high time we started enforcing laws already on the books, regardless of what it could mean for the damned Census.
More localities enact their own solutions in this WaPo article and others encounter road blocks to enforcement.
Roadblocks are typically pro-illegal activist groups ("Mexicans without Borders," anyone?) that say these attempts at the re-establishing rule of law are "anti-immigrant" and "racist," and who file all sorts of law suits to stop or impede these initiatives. Sounds like the rhetoric used by another demographic to stop meaningful discussion of an issue. Then they embolden illegals to march around and protest these legal and reasonable measures (doubly reasonable and understandable considering the Feds' near-total abdication of their sworn duties).
Have any of you actually lived in Mexico (or places like it)? I have, and let me tell you, rule of law is notional. Things folks here take for granted - such as the fact that you call 911 and someone actually comes to help you - such as the fact that mostly, you can trust cops to carry out the law instead of aiding and abetting it for profit or extorting bribes out of you. These are two small examples and no, I'm not kidding. And I didn't see the worst of it. Read Daughters of Juarez for an idea of goverance (or the complete lack thereof) extant in Mexico. Do you really want to import that? It's no wonder most of these illegals don't think they've done anything wrong. But neither they nor their home country "governments" should be lecturing us on how to run OUR country.
I applaud locales (as you well know if you've read my blog for awhile) that take the initiative to deal with their very local and impactful illegal f/n (foreign national) issues. It's a pity they have so much blow-back from fellow Americans that have no clue what they're really supporting.
Update 9/6/07: Coincidentally, there's an editorial in the WaPo about the 2010 census and how ICE claims they won't halt raids for illegals during the census. Yeh, 'cause now they're getting serious about enforcement! The writer, typical of WaPo's (pro-illegal) stance, actually wants a period of non-enforcement so that the Census Bureau can get an accurate count of who's here. Uh-huh. So they can get appropriate representation or some such. Well, a halt is unlikely to reveal how many illegals are here because they're unlikely to admit as much. I say it's high time we started enforcing laws already on the books, regardless of what it could mean for the damned Census.
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Alcohol-induced insomnia...
...has the most surprising results. Last night, we went out for a good-bye dinner for a friend and we imbibed. As is the case sometimes when I imbibe a bit much, I woke up very early and couldn't get back to sleep. Well, this occurred at 4:30am this morning, and I decided - no benefit to just lying here, so I pulled on some clothes and went running. It wasn't even light yet. Yet, I was perfectly clear-headed and energetic. For those of you who know Arlington, you'll know the distance I mean when I say I ran to the Ballston Gold's Gym and back. It was something I was wondering about - how long it would take me to run to that gym, as my classes are in the Ballston area.
I report: 1) the run didn't take that long, 2) it was absolutely PERFECT temperature and humidity level, 3) besides a handful of stragglers from Friday night, I saw another female runner doing her morning constitutional, as well as a cop car speeding up and down Wilson/Clarendon Blvds. Funny thing: DH Jeff didn't even realize I had left I told him when he finally woke up.
Parting shot: why is it that it usually takes a crowbar to get me out of bed at 7am, but sometimes alcohol provokes a cheery and energetic pre-dawn awakening?
I report: 1) the run didn't take that long, 2) it was absolutely PERFECT temperature and humidity level, 3) besides a handful of stragglers from Friday night, I saw another female runner doing her morning constitutional, as well as a cop car speeding up and down Wilson/Clarendon Blvds. Funny thing: DH Jeff didn't even realize I had left I told him when he finally woke up.
Parting shot: why is it that it usually takes a crowbar to get me out of bed at 7am, but sometimes alcohol provokes a cheery and energetic pre-dawn awakening?
Friday, August 24, 2007
Book Review: The Road
The Road, by Cormac McCarthy, is a post-apocalyptic story of a man and his son, trudging through America towards a coast. The reader isn’t informed about what the apocalyptic event was; we’re just to understand that all life EXCEPT humans was annihilated in some event ten years prior. Many humans turn to cannibalism to survive. Father and son try to maintain their humanity (sans cannibalism), while trying to survive along their journey.
While the relationship between the two was kind of sweet, it wasn’t enough to sustain a story that 1) made no sense, 2) went on and on and 3) ended far too neatly in what was supposed to be uplifting but wasn’t, necessarily. An example of the nonsensical nature of the story was that if an event caused all other life to be extinguished, how did humanity make it out alive in the first place? And after ten years, how could humans survive without the necessary bacteria and other interdependent species? And if bacteria, insects and fungi weren’t around to break things down, why weren’t there huge piles of undecayed, dead matter? You get the picture.
The story, if one reads it as just narrative, has so many holes in logic and begs so much suspension of disbelief to make it ridiculous. Even if one takes it as an allegory of the devolution of human behavior when there is no hope for the future, then a MUCH better story is P.D. James’ The Children of Men (see review below). James introduces a single, inexplicable event that starts the devolution, but the rest of the story is consistent and well, sadly plausible. Do yourself a favor: skip this one.
While the relationship between the two was kind of sweet, it wasn’t enough to sustain a story that 1) made no sense, 2) went on and on and 3) ended far too neatly in what was supposed to be uplifting but wasn’t, necessarily. An example of the nonsensical nature of the story was that if an event caused all other life to be extinguished, how did humanity make it out alive in the first place? And after ten years, how could humans survive without the necessary bacteria and other interdependent species? And if bacteria, insects and fungi weren’t around to break things down, why weren’t there huge piles of undecayed, dead matter? You get the picture.
The story, if one reads it as just narrative, has so many holes in logic and begs so much suspension of disbelief to make it ridiculous. Even if one takes it as an allegory of the devolution of human behavior when there is no hope for the future, then a MUCH better story is P.D. James’ The Children of Men (see review below). James introduces a single, inexplicable event that starts the devolution, but the rest of the story is consistent and well, sadly plausible. Do yourself a favor: skip this one.
The gift that keeps on giving
Otherwise known as “the smartphone saga continued.” Last Friday I finally received the prepaid return label from “The New AT&T” to return the defective smartphone for credit. Ironically, that morning I had mailed the phone back after getting account credit for mailing it myself. I looked at the postmark. It said August 15th – which was a full week AFTER my first call to customer service about the return. So they waited for a full week to mail the thing. Why? My guess is that they could have more time with my money – see I was charged for BOTH phones until I returned the defective one for credit. Now, there could be other explanations why the label wasn’t mailed immediately. Incompetence comes to mind. What do you think? Did they think I would just forget about this if enough time elapsed? Just keep the defective phone?
I mailed the phone UPS two-day so I could track it. Now the thing MUST have been received by now (I’ll have to track) and yet my bill still reflects the replacement phone charge. How do I know this? There’s a feature on my new phone in which I can get the up-to-the minute balance on my account. The irony just kills me. {Sigh} I guess I’ll have follow-up with ANOTHER phone call to customer service to 1) confirm that they’ve received the blasted thing and 2) inquire about exactly when I’ll be credited for the returned phone…hopefully before my bill is due!
Gentle readers, there could actually be more to this story yet! Stay tuned.
Update 8/25/07: I called The New AT&T today, after confirming with UPS that the returns center had in fact received the defective phone, in order to find out when my account would be credited. I suspected I wouldn't like the answer and I was right: the credit will show up on my NEXT bill. This means that I'll have to pay $483 on this bill and have to wait ANOTHER MONTH-PLUS for the actual credit. The customer service person had the nerve to say "we appreciate your business." Of course you do, dear, you're making out like a bandit on me!
I mailed the phone UPS two-day so I could track it. Now the thing MUST have been received by now (I’ll have to track) and yet my bill still reflects the replacement phone charge. How do I know this? There’s a feature on my new phone in which I can get the up-to-the minute balance on my account. The irony just kills me. {Sigh} I guess I’ll have follow-up with ANOTHER phone call to customer service to 1) confirm that they’ve received the blasted thing and 2) inquire about exactly when I’ll be credited for the returned phone…hopefully before my bill is due!
Gentle readers, there could actually be more to this story yet! Stay tuned.
Update 8/25/07: I called The New AT&T today, after confirming with UPS that the returns center had in fact received the defective phone, in order to find out when my account would be credited. I suspected I wouldn't like the answer and I was right: the credit will show up on my NEXT bill. This means that I'll have to pay $483 on this bill and have to wait ANOTHER MONTH-PLUS for the actual credit. The customer service person had the nerve to say "we appreciate your business." Of course you do, dear, you're making out like a bandit on me!
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
"Pregnant and homeless" revisited
Day before yesterday, after work, I was again accosted by a female demanding money because she was "pregnant and homeless." I found out that there's a homeless shelter around the corner, so the female residents must get together on this one and develop tactics - unfortunately for them, they all use the same message. Also unfortunately for them, the mere thought of irresponsible pregnancy makes me disgusted, ie, not motivation to give them money. And lying about being pregnant makes me even more disgusted. And anyone demanding money from me for their sorry life when I'm leaving from a long day of GAINFUL EMPLOYMENT is sadly mistaken to think I'm going to give them anything except a lecture.
You'll be happy to know that I didn't read her the riot act OR punch her like I wanted to. I just kept moving along home. I'm so civil it's not funny.
You'll be happy to know that I didn't read her the riot act OR punch her like I wanted to. I just kept moving along home. I'm so civil it's not funny.
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Cow + Yak = new commodity?
Here's a recent WaPo article about two guys who are hybridizing cows and yaks in hopes of developing a new meat-commodity. The skinny is that they want to combine yak's much lower fat content with beef's consistency (yak meat is stringy). Let's see if this "yattle" thing takes off. I'm "game"!
The smartphone saga
Well, my current cell phone was crashing and I thought, I'll upgrade. Thinking that it would be nice to have more functionality on my phone (email, PDA, with a complete keyboard, etc), I decided to buy a Treo 680 - expensive at over 400 clams, but then there was a rebate included for $200. Still expensive, but I thought, I'm making an investment that's going to make my life easier. Or so I thought.
Well, the first phone arrived and I tried to activate, per instructions, on the web. Mind you, I went thru my existing AT&T/Cingular account online to order the upgrade in the first place, so theoretically I'd just follow instructions and my phone would be activated. But no. So I called the customer service activation line and the helpful person stated that no, in fact, the new upgraded phone wasn't even associated with my account and they would have to associate it and activate it. Fine, do that.
Oh, but that wouldn't be the end of it. I couldn't access any of the menus on the phone, at all, or make calls, so I called them again. The woman tried to assess the problem and concluded that the unit I had was defective, and that I should return it. Ok. But that meant I had to also get a replacement. So the next day I called their Online Sales Dept to discuss return and replacement. The guy was exceeding nice and helpful, ordered the replacement and requested that a prepaid return label be sent to me. Now, mind you, the new phone is charged to me until the old phone is returned and credited. They use two-day delivery for the phone, but regular snail-mail for the return address label. I rec'd the phone yesterday. The label hasn't yet arrived.
So, I go online to activate the new phone. I get an error message that says that all phones associated with my account are activated and if I think this is in error, I should call a number. By that time it's late & I figure I'll just call today. I called a few minutes ago only to get the message that the customer service function is not open, that I should call back during regular business hours. At this point I'm in the possession of two hideously expensive paperweights.
But the story gets better: you know that $200 rebate I mentioned? Well, I read the fine print and in addition to buying the the phone at full price, I also must sign up for what amounts to service (voice & data) plans costing $80 per month! I pay $30 and change for my existing phone plan and I knew I would be spending a bit more per month, but $80? Oh, and that's not including taxes.
At this point, I'm ready to return both phones and order the cheapest upgrade phone I can get. All thanks to the "New AT&T"! Thanks guys!
More on this as the story develops...
UPDATE 8/13/07: I called AT&T this morning and a very nice customer service person walked me thru activation (both of the phone & SIM card). The phone still said No Service. She advised me to go to a specific store and have the SIM card replaced because it must be that the SIM card was defective. I thanked her (while starting a whole new frustration) and hung up. I conveyed this to DH Jeff & he said let me look at it, whereby he popped out the battery & put it back in. And guess what? I now have a useable phone. Yippee! Now all I have to do is choose an appropriate plan, sync the bluetooth and set up Palm OS and all will be well. I'll still have to suck up the full cost of the thing, probably, because I don't want to pay $80 a month.
UPDATE 8/15/07: I checked the data plans available and got one that suits for $15/month for messaging and internet, to be added to my existing voice plan for which I pay $30/month (and don't even use all the minutes), for a reasonable total of $45/month. Now, with their "great deal," I would have paid $220 MORE for the first year WITH the $200 rebate, as compared to the plan arrangement I chose WITHOUT the phone rebate. What a rip-off. And did I mention that I haven’t received the pre-paid return address label to return the defective phone? If I haven’t received it by the time I get home this evening, I’m going to have to call AGAIN to see what’s up. I mean snail-mail doesn’t take a week for a damned label!
Talking to a coworker recently, I discovered that she had had a very similar experience with AT&T/Cingular. Word to the wise out there – read everything and ask questions before buying and signing up for anything, especially with the “New AT&T”; evidently, it’s all about getting you to pay the highest possible price before you realize what you’re getting into!
UPDATE 8/16/07: Last evening I had NOT received the dang return label for the defective phone. So, I called this morning and now I have an address where I can send the phone & a credit on my account for the postage. A little victory.
Well, the first phone arrived and I tried to activate, per instructions, on the web. Mind you, I went thru my existing AT&T/Cingular account online to order the upgrade in the first place, so theoretically I'd just follow instructions and my phone would be activated. But no. So I called the customer service activation line and the helpful person stated that no, in fact, the new upgraded phone wasn't even associated with my account and they would have to associate it and activate it. Fine, do that.
Oh, but that wouldn't be the end of it. I couldn't access any of the menus on the phone, at all, or make calls, so I called them again. The woman tried to assess the problem and concluded that the unit I had was defective, and that I should return it. Ok. But that meant I had to also get a replacement. So the next day I called their Online Sales Dept to discuss return and replacement. The guy was exceeding nice and helpful, ordered the replacement and requested that a prepaid return label be sent to me. Now, mind you, the new phone is charged to me until the old phone is returned and credited. They use two-day delivery for the phone, but regular snail-mail for the return address label. I rec'd the phone yesterday. The label hasn't yet arrived.
So, I go online to activate the new phone. I get an error message that says that all phones associated with my account are activated and if I think this is in error, I should call a number. By that time it's late & I figure I'll just call today. I called a few minutes ago only to get the message that the customer service function is not open, that I should call back during regular business hours. At this point I'm in the possession of two hideously expensive paperweights.
But the story gets better: you know that $200 rebate I mentioned? Well, I read the fine print and in addition to buying the the phone at full price, I also must sign up for what amounts to service (voice & data) plans costing $80 per month! I pay $30 and change for my existing phone plan and I knew I would be spending a bit more per month, but $80? Oh, and that's not including taxes.
At this point, I'm ready to return both phones and order the cheapest upgrade phone I can get. All thanks to the "New AT&T"! Thanks guys!
More on this as the story develops...
UPDATE 8/13/07: I called AT&T this morning and a very nice customer service person walked me thru activation (both of the phone & SIM card). The phone still said No Service. She advised me to go to a specific store and have the SIM card replaced because it must be that the SIM card was defective. I thanked her (while starting a whole new frustration) and hung up. I conveyed this to DH Jeff & he said let me look at it, whereby he popped out the battery & put it back in. And guess what? I now have a useable phone. Yippee! Now all I have to do is choose an appropriate plan, sync the bluetooth and set up Palm OS and all will be well. I'll still have to suck up the full cost of the thing, probably, because I don't want to pay $80 a month.
UPDATE 8/15/07: I checked the data plans available and got one that suits for $15/month for messaging and internet, to be added to my existing voice plan for which I pay $30/month (and don't even use all the minutes), for a reasonable total of $45/month. Now, with their "great deal," I would have paid $220 MORE for the first year WITH the $200 rebate, as compared to the plan arrangement I chose WITHOUT the phone rebate. What a rip-off. And did I mention that I haven’t received the pre-paid return address label to return the defective phone? If I haven’t received it by the time I get home this evening, I’m going to have to call AGAIN to see what’s up. I mean snail-mail doesn’t take a week for a damned label!
Talking to a coworker recently, I discovered that she had had a very similar experience with AT&T/Cingular. Word to the wise out there – read everything and ask questions before buying and signing up for anything, especially with the “New AT&T”; evidently, it’s all about getting you to pay the highest possible price before you realize what you’re getting into!
UPDATE 8/16/07: Last evening I had NOT received the dang return label for the defective phone. So, I called this morning and now I have an address where I can send the phone & a credit on my account for the postage. A little victory.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Yet another book review: The Daughters of Juarez
The Daughters of Juarez, by Teresa Rodriguez (with Diana Montané and Lisa Pulitzer), chronicles a series of horrific murders of young women (and teens) in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, over the last fourteen years, the law enforcement/governmental response to them, and the myriad theories as to the perpetrator(s). Over this period, a good part of 400 poor women were raped, tortured and strangled (and some mutilated), then dumped in desert areas and vacant lots around the city, many of them having been abducted on their way to or from work or school. The book details a rich tapestry of police and governmental brutality, corruption, blatant sexual discrimination, disregard for public safety, and just plain incompetence (which supports my long-held belief that rule of law in Mexico is merely notional).
Although many suspects have been charged and held (and tortured), it is doubtful that any of the murders can ever be considered legitimately solved because of this pervasive and persistent institutional dysfunction. In fact, one can say that this is a glaring example of how not to run a criminal justice system. It’s heartbreaking to consider that the families of these slain women will never see justice done. Additionally, it must have been so frustrating for those [few, evidently] in law enforcement and government who made efforts to run effective investigations, only to be stymied at every turn by the very system they should have been able to trust, forced out of their jobs because they wouldn’t falsify results or analyses, or even physically threatened.
Daughters is definitely a compelling, true tale and Rodriguez does a service to those affected by these horrors by airing them for everyone to examine. The book, however, suffers from Rodriguez’s lack of organization: she bounces around dates, people and events so much so that it’s hard to keep them all straight. Also, she makes a point of maudlin over-description of the women and their families so as to make them more sympathetic. This in my mind is unnecessary; most people will find the thought of someone (not to mention hundreds) being subjected to the extreme violence that these women experienced and the grief (on multiple levels) that their loved ones were forced to endure to be inconceivably horrible – no matter who the reader is. I also think Rodriguez could have used some citations to support what must have been years of research and investigation. In the end, I would recommend this book as a real eye-opener, but with these reservations.
Although many suspects have been charged and held (and tortured), it is doubtful that any of the murders can ever be considered legitimately solved because of this pervasive and persistent institutional dysfunction. In fact, one can say that this is a glaring example of how not to run a criminal justice system. It’s heartbreaking to consider that the families of these slain women will never see justice done. Additionally, it must have been so frustrating for those [few, evidently] in law enforcement and government who made efforts to run effective investigations, only to be stymied at every turn by the very system they should have been able to trust, forced out of their jobs because they wouldn’t falsify results or analyses, or even physically threatened.
Daughters is definitely a compelling, true tale and Rodriguez does a service to those affected by these horrors by airing them for everyone to examine. The book, however, suffers from Rodriguez’s lack of organization: she bounces around dates, people and events so much so that it’s hard to keep them all straight. Also, she makes a point of maudlin over-description of the women and their families so as to make them more sympathetic. This in my mind is unnecessary; most people will find the thought of someone (not to mention hundreds) being subjected to the extreme violence that these women experienced and the grief (on multiple levels) that their loved ones were forced to endure to be inconceivably horrible – no matter who the reader is. I also think Rodriguez could have used some citations to support what must have been years of research and investigation. In the end, I would recommend this book as a real eye-opener, but with these reservations.
Another locality stands up for itself
Today in WaPo Metro section is an article about another locality, in this case Culpeper County, VA, that has had it with illegal immigration. A resolution that was approved unanimously by county lawmakers affirms English as official language, e.g., printing public documents only in English. I think this right on: anyone who lives and works in Culpeper County (or anywhere in the US, to my mind) should be able to read, write and speak English. No brainer. Now, this might not seem like a lot, especially compared to what other localities are doing, but it does send a message. Lawmakers opine that the Hispanic immigrant population is just not assimilating vis-Ã -vis English language proficiency; therefore, if the county refuses to accommodate their language deficiency, they might move elsewhere. A small step, to be applauded.
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Writing about nothing
Well, you'll all be happy to know that I've labeled every single post I've ever written, so you can pull them up by topic (side bar). I know, too much excitement for one day.
In other news, my face is breaking out like a teenager's, for some ungodly reason. For some other reason, my eyes were all puffy. Not just baggy. Gaack.
Dog days of summer are definitely here - temps in high 90s and nasty humidity. It was rather uncomfortable last evening at Screen on the Green. More on that experience a little later.
In other news, my face is breaking out like a teenager's, for some ungodly reason. For some other reason, my eyes were all puffy. Not just baggy. Gaack.
Dog days of summer are definitely here - temps in high 90s and nasty humidity. It was rather uncomfortable last evening at Screen on the Green. More on that experience a little later.
Monday, August 06, 2007
Another Book Review: World War Z
World War Z, by Max Brooks, describes what might happen if a virus got loose and caused a world-wide pandemic of re-animated people, i.e., zombies. It is cleverly told through a series of interviews with various survivors around the world about their experience with or rather against the zombie hoards and how they managed to emerge from the plague uninfected. A nice touch is how Brooks adds in “footnotes” which explain details of the subject’s narrative – what a certain acronym means, what a piece of equipment did, etc. Furthermore, Brooks effectively gives distinct voices to each of his “interviewees,” not an easy thing to do, especially given the number of subjects in the book. World War Z manages, for its outlandish premise, to convey an impression of veritas through very readable, creative, yet plausible story-telling. Towards the end, I must confess, I was looking forward to finishing Z but that was probably more a function of my impatience to start another book, than any defect in the narrative.
Sunday, August 05, 2007
Restaurant Review: Sorriso
On Saturday, DH Jeff & I tried out an Italian restaurant that I've been wanting to try for a while, called Sorriso Ristorante, 3518 Connecticut Avenue NW, WDC 20008, (202) 537-4800.
We decided, upon Jeff's suggestion, to share a bunch of appetizers rather than appetizers and a heavier entree. This turned out well. Here was our menu:
Caprese salad
beef carpaccio on bed of arugula with shaved parmesan
steamed mussels in white wine and garlic
antipasto with grilled vegetables, salami, goat cheese
bottle of red wine
espressos
lemoncellos
Sound good? It was! Very fresh ingredients & very tasty. Our favorite was probably the carpaccio. The weakest item - although still very good and fresh - was the mussels - a little more garlic needed. The staff was very pleasant, and provided as much yummy bread as we wanted. The environment was the sunny and comfortable; even the bathrooms were nice. My only thought was that it would have been nice if they offered lower-priced wines (or cut down the mark-up) - the least expensive bottle was around $30. Although, they did have a good selection of wines by the glass, but who wants to keep re-ordering glasses, hence the bottle. Anyhoo, minor detail! I definitely would recommend the place, which is conveniently located right off Cleveland Park Metro. There's a pasta dish with truffle oil that I MUST try!
We decided, upon Jeff's suggestion, to share a bunch of appetizers rather than appetizers and a heavier entree. This turned out well. Here was our menu:
Caprese salad
beef carpaccio on bed of arugula with shaved parmesan
steamed mussels in white wine and garlic
antipasto with grilled vegetables, salami, goat cheese
bottle of red wine
espressos
lemoncellos
Sound good? It was! Very fresh ingredients & very tasty. Our favorite was probably the carpaccio. The weakest item - although still very good and fresh - was the mussels - a little more garlic needed. The staff was very pleasant, and provided as much yummy bread as we wanted. The environment was the sunny and comfortable; even the bathrooms were nice. My only thought was that it would have been nice if they offered lower-priced wines (or cut down the mark-up) - the least expensive bottle was around $30. Although, they did have a good selection of wines by the glass, but who wants to keep re-ordering glasses, hence the bottle. Anyhoo, minor detail! I definitely would recommend the place, which is conveniently located right off Cleveland Park Metro. There's a pasta dish with truffle oil that I MUST try!
Saturday, August 04, 2007
Book Review: The Roaches Have No King
The Roaches Have No King, by Daniel Evan Weiss, is a clever tale of cockroach “societal” dynamics, told from the perspective of the cockroach. Mind you, this is not a book for everyone – the “Ew Factor” is very high, especially in passages concerning the interaction between human and cockroach; some may find it downright unreadable for this reason. Even the non-squeamish will want to immediately scrub down their entire home with bleach. That said, I found it a funny, creative and involving story of roach sensibilities and their take on the world around them. The grossness isn’t gratuitous – we are talking about cockroaches, aren’t we?
Hat-tip to AJ for recommending this book!
Hat-tip to AJ for recommending this book!
Friday, August 03, 2007
Book Review: Soldiers of God
I read Soldiers of God, by Robert Kaplan, at the same time that I read The Bookseller of Kabul (for book club) and found Soldiers to be an enlightening companion read because while Bookseller focused on one family in Kabul, its interpersonal dynamics, and how religion and culture affected its members, Soldiers gave a broader view of various groups and their political and personal dynamics in Afghanistan. Also, both books were written by Western journalists, which gave the books a somewhat similar (though by no means identical) perspective on Afghanistan, although differing in scope.
Specific to Soldiers, I enjoyed Robert Kaplan’s story telling (part travelogue, part reportage), his ability to gain access to some very insular groups, and his obvious desire to present them and their goals as accurately as possible. It was compelling reading for me as I knew little about the country, its myriad elements and history.
Specific to Soldiers, I enjoyed Robert Kaplan’s story telling (part travelogue, part reportage), his ability to gain access to some very insular groups, and his obvious desire to present them and their goals as accurately as possible. It was compelling reading for me as I knew little about the country, its myriad elements and history.
Blog changes
For my regular readers (all five!), you will notice that I've been changing format and adding various new things to the blog. Hopefully, these additions will make the site more user-friendly, navigable (is that a word?), interesting and maybe even useful. Let me know what you think!
40 ain't what it used to be
There was a rather triumphant (and encouraging) article in WaPo yesterday concerning the comeback of multi-Olympic medal winning swimmer Dara Torres - at age 40. Evidently, she's like a woman possessed and blowing away the much-younger competition. Nice to hear - you go girl! Read the whole thing here.
More bad news about national security
In WaPo today is an article about how the computer system that contains all sorts of border-control-related personal information on passports, visas, SSNs, etc. has poor security and is vulnerable to cyber-attacks, data theft, data manipulation. And it's costing us $1.7 BILLION!!!
First it's just disturbing that we, the taxpayers, are supporting a very expensive computer system in the name of border control (hah!) that is essentially a huge liability. Second, it's disturbing that WaPo is publishing this story for the world to read, basically advertising a significant weakness. It's like a warm little invitation for all sorts of criminals and terrorists to jump in and hack. Gee, thanks!
What's wrong with this country and its leadership (one of the things) is that there are gaping [expensive, taxpayer funded] holes in our security, starting with the systems and agencies put in place to protect us with zero accountability. Now, some may just blame everything on Bush, but this sort of nonsense has been going on for a long time, ie, before Bush. What's the rationale for allowing this to continue? How do you sell your incompetence and spend-thriftiness to the people who are paying for it? Evidently, easily. It seems that wherever one looks today, there are government approved, aided and abetted ways to ensure our demise.
First it's just disturbing that we, the taxpayers, are supporting a very expensive computer system in the name of border control (hah!) that is essentially a huge liability. Second, it's disturbing that WaPo is publishing this story for the world to read, basically advertising a significant weakness. It's like a warm little invitation for all sorts of criminals and terrorists to jump in and hack. Gee, thanks!
What's wrong with this country and its leadership (one of the things) is that there are gaping [expensive, taxpayer funded] holes in our security, starting with the systems and agencies put in place to protect us with zero accountability. Now, some may just blame everything on Bush, but this sort of nonsense has been going on for a long time, ie, before Bush. What's the rationale for allowing this to continue? How do you sell your incompetence and spend-thriftiness to the people who are paying for it? Evidently, easily. It seems that wherever one looks today, there are government approved, aided and abetted ways to ensure our demise.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Identity theft in Virginia
Talk about pertinent current events – in the WaPo day-before-yesterday was a story about this woman who, with her husband’s complicity, used someone else’s identity (“lost” drivers license, etc.) to get a mortgage on a $400k townhouse. The victim got suspicious when he received a refund check from the mortgage broker for overpayment of closing costs – for a mortgage he didn’t have, for a townhome he didn’t own.
What’s troublesome about the article is that WaPo seems to insinuate that all is well, because the guy wasn’t out any money (the thief was making payments) and the thief eventually was caught and now prosecuted. Furthermore, the woman is Hispanic with a slew of kids. WaPo doesn’t state as much, but I’m wondering about her immigration status as well. Poor, poor immigrant must use someone else’s docs to buy a home for her family. American Dream shouldn't be denied to immigrants, wah-wah! Like hell – DH Jeff and I probably couldn’t get a $400k mortgage – and we have good jobs with no kids!
The bottom line is that yes, the thief was caught and prosecuted (and should be to the full extent of the law!), and no, there weren’t any financial costs to the victim; however, it is up to him to clear up the situation with the bank regarding the mortgage, it’s up to him to correct his credit record with the reporting agencies, and up to him to do any other follow-up to clear his name. I’m sure he must feel very vulnerable and now wonders – is this it or is my name and credit still compromised, another bomb waiting to drop? Read the whole story here.
What’s troublesome about the article is that WaPo seems to insinuate that all is well, because the guy wasn’t out any money (the thief was making payments) and the thief eventually was caught and now prosecuted. Furthermore, the woman is Hispanic with a slew of kids. WaPo doesn’t state as much, but I’m wondering about her immigration status as well. Poor, poor immigrant must use someone else’s docs to buy a home for her family. American Dream shouldn't be denied to immigrants, wah-wah! Like hell – DH Jeff and I probably couldn’t get a $400k mortgage – and we have good jobs with no kids!
The bottom line is that yes, the thief was caught and prosecuted (and should be to the full extent of the law!), and no, there weren’t any financial costs to the victim; however, it is up to him to clear up the situation with the bank regarding the mortgage, it’s up to him to correct his credit record with the reporting agencies, and up to him to do any other follow-up to clear his name. I’m sure he must feel very vulnerable and now wonders – is this it or is my name and credit still compromised, another bomb waiting to drop? Read the whole story here.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Las Vegas Eats
As promised, here are some of the restaurants that we really enjoyed while in Vegas and why.
Café Ba Ba Reeba, 3200 South Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, (702) 258-1211. We both love tapas and this place was fun, had tasty, garlicky favorites, had some selections we hadn’t tried before (like these yummy mild peppers in sea salt), and reasonably priced (comparable to that of Jaleo’s here in DC). OT.
Todd’s Unique Dining, 4350 East Sunset, Henderson, NV 89014, (702) 259-8633. This was probably the star of our stay, restaurant-wise. The restaurant is actually in a strip mall and has a cozy, neighborhood feel to it. The service is pleasant and attentive. But the real draw is their exceptional food. For instance, I had a seared ahi filet over wasabi mashed potatoes, with a spray of enoki mushrooms – yum! The pricing is a bit high – best for a treat evening – but well-worth it. OT.
Emperor’s Garden, 4215 Spring Mountain Road, Las Vegas, NV 89102, 702-889-6777. This place has really good Chinese food – the Sichuan selections are spicy and full-flavored, with plenty of sauce to soak up with rice. Pleasantly different from the preparation here in DC and reasonably/comparably priced.
Verandah, Four Seasons Hotel/ Mandalay Bay Resort, 3960 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas, NV 89119, (702) 632-5000. Beautiful ambience, exceptionally attentive and pleasant service (I did have to giggle when they brought a little foot stool for my purse), and wonderful food – very fresh ingredients with wonderful seasonings. The pricing is high, so again, best for a treat evening out once in a while. OT.
Honorable mention to the Charlie Palmer’s Restaurant lounge, right beside Verandah, Four Seasons Hotel, 3960 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, NV 89119, (702) 632-5120. Big, cushy chairs in little groupings around a coffee table, with soothing lighting and pleasant staff who don’t rush you. Very relaxing! Next time we go to Vegas, we’ll have to check out the restaurant.
OT = Listed on OpenTable.com, wherein you can make reservations online.
Café Ba Ba Reeba, 3200 South Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, (702) 258-1211. We both love tapas and this place was fun, had tasty, garlicky favorites, had some selections we hadn’t tried before (like these yummy mild peppers in sea salt), and reasonably priced (comparable to that of Jaleo’s here in DC). OT.
Todd’s Unique Dining, 4350 East Sunset, Henderson, NV 89014, (702) 259-8633. This was probably the star of our stay, restaurant-wise. The restaurant is actually in a strip mall and has a cozy, neighborhood feel to it. The service is pleasant and attentive. But the real draw is their exceptional food. For instance, I had a seared ahi filet over wasabi mashed potatoes, with a spray of enoki mushrooms – yum! The pricing is a bit high – best for a treat evening – but well-worth it. OT.
Emperor’s Garden, 4215 Spring Mountain Road, Las Vegas, NV 89102, 702-889-6777. This place has really good Chinese food – the Sichuan selections are spicy and full-flavored, with plenty of sauce to soak up with rice. Pleasantly different from the preparation here in DC and reasonably/comparably priced.
Verandah, Four Seasons Hotel/ Mandalay Bay Resort, 3960 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas, NV 89119, (702) 632-5000. Beautiful ambience, exceptionally attentive and pleasant service (I did have to giggle when they brought a little foot stool for my purse), and wonderful food – very fresh ingredients with wonderful seasonings. The pricing is high, so again, best for a treat evening out once in a while. OT.
Honorable mention to the Charlie Palmer’s Restaurant lounge, right beside Verandah, Four Seasons Hotel, 3960 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, NV 89119, (702) 632-5120. Big, cushy chairs in little groupings around a coffee table, with soothing lighting and pleasant staff who don’t rush you. Very relaxing! Next time we go to Vegas, we’ll have to check out the restaurant.
OT = Listed on OpenTable.com, wherein you can make reservations online.
Book & movie review: The Children of Men
The Children of Men, by P.D. James, the book on which the recent film was based, is a dire what-if tale of a world without a future, caused by sudden, inexplicable universal sterility. The story unfolds twenty-five years after the last baby was born, around a middle-aged university professor in London, who had become detached from life and humanity far before this crisis. Through his journal entries the reader learns how society is dying: the emergent pathologies, the devolutions, the apathy. One day, however, a compelling young woman crosses his path and captures his attention. This is where the story takes off.
The basic premise of the book and film are the same (worldwide inability to procreate); however, James tells a much better, a much more psychologically and emotionally haunting story. I saw the movie first and thought that it was a pretty good story and well-acted (by Michael Caine, Clive Owen, Julianne Moore) despite the pro-illegal sob-story subplot. Then I read the book and thought, this a great story as is, but the Hollywood lefties had to impose their politics, ignore the book's well-crafted characters, nuances and compelling issues - pretty much dumped the whole plot of the book. Essentially, the film-makers took a neat idea from the book and fabricated their own, politically slanted and fractured narrative - in my mind, a much inferior one to the original.
The basic premise of the book and film are the same (worldwide inability to procreate); however, James tells a much better, a much more psychologically and emotionally haunting story. I saw the movie first and thought that it was a pretty good story and well-acted (by Michael Caine, Clive Owen, Julianne Moore) despite the pro-illegal sob-story subplot. Then I read the book and thought, this a great story as is, but the Hollywood lefties had to impose their politics, ignore the book's well-crafted characters, nuances and compelling issues - pretty much dumped the whole plot of the book. Essentially, the film-makers took a neat idea from the book and fabricated their own, politically slanted and fractured narrative - in my mind, a much inferior one to the original.
Identity Theft: what you can do - PSA
After returning from Las Vegas recently, I checked my credit card account online and almost had a heart attack when I noticed $8000 in pending charges. My first thought was some scumbag clerk or wait staff in Vegas had lifted my number and went to town. So I called the credit card company and learned that no, no credit card fraud, just my school accidently done multiple charges for the one tuition bill - and those pending repeat charges would just fall off eventually, not to worry. They have in the mean time, but thank goodness I called!
Short-story-long, my first thought was that this was a case of identity theft, which is BIG business and costs victims not only financially, but in hassle and time lost trying to correct the situation. Coincidentally, I had done a presentation last semester on identity theft and had put together a list of steps & contacts of what to do if you're victimized. Below is that list with links to government agencies' websites for more information and to submit a report online.
-----------
What should you do if you think your identity has been stolen?
1. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC):
· By phone (FTC identity theft hotline): 1-877-438-4338
· Online: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/
The FTC maintains a database of identity theft cases used by law enforcement agencies for investigations.
2. Contact the fraud departments of any one of the three major credit bureaus:
· Equifax: 800-525-6285 or write to P.O. Box 740250, Atlanta, GA 30374-0250
· Experian: 888-397-3742, fax to 800-301-7196, or write to P.O. Box 1017, Allen, TX 75013.
· Trans Union: 800-680-7289 or write to P.O. Box 6790, Fullerton, CA 92634
The credit bureaus will place a fraud alert on your credit file, requesting creditors to contact you before opening any new accounts or making any changes to your existing accounts. Once the credit bureau confirms your fraud alert, the other two credit bureaus will automatically be notified to place fraud alerts. All three credit reports will be sent to you free of charge.
3. Close the accounts that you know or believe have been tampered with or opened fraudulently.
4. File a police report.
5. Submit a copy of the report to your creditors and others that may require proof of the crime.
6. Call IRS at 1-800-829-1040 if you think your identity has been stolen and used inappropriately for tax purposes.
Sources: IRS, FTC, DOJ
Short-story-long, my first thought was that this was a case of identity theft, which is BIG business and costs victims not only financially, but in hassle and time lost trying to correct the situation. Coincidentally, I had done a presentation last semester on identity theft and had put together a list of steps & contacts of what to do if you're victimized. Below is that list with links to government agencies' websites for more information and to submit a report online.
-----------
What should you do if you think your identity has been stolen?
1. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC):
· By phone (FTC identity theft hotline): 1-877-438-4338
· Online: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/
The FTC maintains a database of identity theft cases used by law enforcement agencies for investigations.
2. Contact the fraud departments of any one of the three major credit bureaus:
· Equifax: 800-525-6285 or write to P.O. Box 740250, Atlanta, GA 30374-0250
· Experian: 888-397-3742, fax to 800-301-7196, or write to P.O. Box 1017, Allen, TX 75013.
· Trans Union: 800-680-7289 or write to P.O. Box 6790, Fullerton, CA 92634
The credit bureaus will place a fraud alert on your credit file, requesting creditors to contact you before opening any new accounts or making any changes to your existing accounts. Once the credit bureau confirms your fraud alert, the other two credit bureaus will automatically be notified to place fraud alerts. All three credit reports will be sent to you free of charge.
3. Close the accounts that you know or believe have been tampered with or opened fraudulently.
4. File a police report.
5. Submit a copy of the report to your creditors and others that may require proof of the crime.
6. Call IRS at 1-800-829-1040 if you think your identity has been stolen and used inappropriately for tax purposes.
Sources: IRS, FTC, DOJ
Friday, July 27, 2007
Thoughts on the morning
I’ve successfully worked out in the mornings 3 days this week – very exciting! – and run for 2 of them. A few observations:
- It’s a very nice time to work out – peaceful, even.
- there are a lot of runners quietly running around at 6am.
- My butt and sometimes lower back hurts after a run even though I stretch before and after, and have proper running shoes. My courses are up and downhill as my courses are hilly. Maybe I just have to run more often?
- It’s a very nice time to work out – peaceful, even.
- there are a lot of runners quietly running around at 6am.
- My butt and sometimes lower back hurts after a run even though I stretch before and after, and have proper running shoes. My courses are up and downhill as my courses are hilly. Maybe I just have to run more often?
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Gangs & stuff
Sort of good news in Maryland: an MS-13 scumbag who orchestrated the gang rape of two teenage girls was sentenced to 37 years behind bars (evidently, this isn’t the same judge who dismissed charges of a Liberian child rapist in Montgomery County –see below). This criminal was caught and charged through a RICO operation. Yeah, RICO!
Now, although I’m gratified that this SOB will be behind bars for a long time, he’s still taking up public (taxpayer) resources – food, shelter, medical/dental, etc. And he’ll probably meet up with his MS-13 buddies already in prison – and still operate from the inside. And, ok, the article in WaPo mentioned that he spoke through an interpreter, which I take to mean he’s an illegal. And probably, too, are the scads of relatives present in the courtroom who, along with the defendant, wept at the injustice of the verdict. Read the whole thing for yourself, especially the part where the scumbag says that God knows his heart and that he didn’t do anything wrong. Rich. My only hope is that the system doesn’t allow time off for good behavior.
Now, although I’m gratified that this SOB will be behind bars for a long time, he’s still taking up public (taxpayer) resources – food, shelter, medical/dental, etc. And he’ll probably meet up with his MS-13 buddies already in prison – and still operate from the inside. And, ok, the article in WaPo mentioned that he spoke through an interpreter, which I take to mean he’s an illegal. And probably, too, are the scads of relatives present in the courtroom who, along with the defendant, wept at the injustice of the verdict. Read the whole thing for yourself, especially the part where the scumbag says that God knows his heart and that he didn’t do anything wrong. Rich. My only hope is that the system doesn’t allow time off for good behavior.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Oh, yeh, I'm back from Vegas
I guess from the last post, you've figured out that I'm back at the ol' homestead. Vegas was a blast, and not only in temperature.
Speaking of heat, though, the average high temp during our stay was 108 degrees Fahrenheit. At that temp, it does feel like a furnace, albeit a dry one. Here are some musts, if you're to remain healthy and conscious during your stay:
- water, water, water! And by "water" I mean H20, not soda or anything else. DH Jeff & I were constantly drinking water because the dry, hot air sucks the moisture right out of you. And fast. I've heard tales of dehydration and it's not pretty.
- sunblock, sunblock, sunblock! I used SPF 45 and sunbathed. Evidently I missed a spot or two and burned after only about two hours in the sun. I mean REALLY red in the missed parts. Those spray-sunblocks are good - just get someone to spray your back.
In up-coming posts, I'll share what we did & the best places to go (restaurants, etc.).
Speaking of heat, though, the average high temp during our stay was 108 degrees Fahrenheit. At that temp, it does feel like a furnace, albeit a dry one. Here are some musts, if you're to remain healthy and conscious during your stay:
- water, water, water! And by "water" I mean H20, not soda or anything else. DH Jeff & I were constantly drinking water because the dry, hot air sucks the moisture right out of you. And fast. I've heard tales of dehydration and it's not pretty.
- sunblock, sunblock, sunblock! I used SPF 45 and sunbathed. Evidently I missed a spot or two and burned after only about two hours in the sun. I mean REALLY red in the missed parts. Those spray-sunblocks are good - just get someone to spray your back.
In up-coming posts, I'll share what we did & the best places to go (restaurants, etc.).
Miscarriage of justice writ large
In today's WaPo, there's an article that totally infuriated me - and not just in the usual outrage-y way, but in the where's-the-justice way, in the incompetent judge way, in the child-advocacy way. Ok, here's what it's about: in Montgomery County (MD), a Liberian man was charged with raping and repeatedly molesting a 7-year-old girl over a year's period. He was brought to trial. Now, the judge, a Katherine D. Savage, is dropping the charges because over the three year period of the trial, the courts couldn't retain a suitable interpreter for him under the period acceptable to uphold speedy trial rights.
Other interesting facts:
- the accused [sexual predator/child molester scumbag] attended high school in Montgomery County, where presumably the standard operating language is English;
- the accused [sexual predator/child molester scumbag] was taking classes at a community college in Maryland, where presumably the standard operating language is English;
- a court-appointed psychiatrist recommended that "an interpreter be appointed." (WaPo, July 22, 2007). The court followed suit and was evidently bound by this recommendation. I have to wonder why the shrink recommended that, why the justification.
- Montgomery County cannot retry this scumbag again for these charges;
- WaPo claims to have found at least one agency that could provide Vai (a tribal language spoken in Liberia & Sierra Leone) interpreters at short notice.
- the prosecution not only had DNA evidence against the accused, but eye witnesses to the crimes.
- the accused is free to go now.
The prosecution will probably appeal, but what the hey - the guy is free as a bird to rape and molest again, and the victim has received absolutely no justice under our wonderful legal system. The scumbag's rights were upheld, the victim's were - well - at best, theoretical. Now she and her parents must live in the fear that this rapist (a relative, no less), is released back into her community.
The moral of the story? Let's see...If you're raped, make damn sure your rapist speaks & understands English, and understands that what he was doing was actually wrong (that wasn't brought up in the article, but judging from the incidence of rape by all types - UN "peacekeepers", child soldiers, other soldiers, every other Moslem male, etc, in many parts of Africa, I'll make the leap that the accused was bringing up the cultural variance defense). Or maybe: we gratefully import poverty, crime & all sorts of predation in the name of a multi-culti sense of diversity - and our courts happily evidence the kind of incompetence and disfunctionality existent in the courts in countries from which these criminals come. And if you're a kid, you quite literally screwed. Your parents can't protect you everywhere, not even (especially???) from predatory relatives. The courts won't protect you either.
Our justice system, specifically in Montgomery County, specifically in the court of Judge Savage (interesting name, huh, considering the case and her action in it?), failed miserably in bringing to justice a heinous criminal and henceforth, failed in protecting not only this 7-year-old from further injury, but other children who are vulnerable to this free violent criminal. I would not be surprised, nor particularly troubled, if this community took it upon itself to exact a justice unanswered by our supposed rule of law.
A further thought: perhaps the moral of the story is to promptly kill your or child's attacker, because the court system, especially certain judges, will focus solely on the constitutional rights of the accused and disregard the wellbeing of the victim and society at large.
Other interesting facts:
- the accused [sexual predator/child molester scumbag] attended high school in Montgomery County, where presumably the standard operating language is English;
- the accused [sexual predator/child molester scumbag] was taking classes at a community college in Maryland, where presumably the standard operating language is English;
- a court-appointed psychiatrist recommended that "an interpreter be appointed." (WaPo, July 22, 2007). The court followed suit and was evidently bound by this recommendation. I have to wonder why the shrink recommended that, why the justification.
- Montgomery County cannot retry this scumbag again for these charges;
- WaPo claims to have found at least one agency that could provide Vai (a tribal language spoken in Liberia & Sierra Leone) interpreters at short notice.
- the prosecution not only had DNA evidence against the accused, but eye witnesses to the crimes.
- the accused is free to go now.
The prosecution will probably appeal, but what the hey - the guy is free as a bird to rape and molest again, and the victim has received absolutely no justice under our wonderful legal system. The scumbag's rights were upheld, the victim's were - well - at best, theoretical. Now she and her parents must live in the fear that this rapist (a relative, no less), is released back into her community.
The moral of the story? Let's see...If you're raped, make damn sure your rapist speaks & understands English, and understands that what he was doing was actually wrong (that wasn't brought up in the article, but judging from the incidence of rape by all types - UN "peacekeepers", child soldiers, other soldiers, every other Moslem male, etc, in many parts of Africa, I'll make the leap that the accused was bringing up the cultural variance defense). Or maybe: we gratefully import poverty, crime & all sorts of predation in the name of a multi-culti sense of diversity - and our courts happily evidence the kind of incompetence and disfunctionality existent in the courts in countries from which these criminals come. And if you're a kid, you quite literally screwed. Your parents can't protect you everywhere, not even (especially???) from predatory relatives. The courts won't protect you either.
Our justice system, specifically in Montgomery County, specifically in the court of Judge Savage (interesting name, huh, considering the case and her action in it?), failed miserably in bringing to justice a heinous criminal and henceforth, failed in protecting not only this 7-year-old from further injury, but other children who are vulnerable to this free violent criminal. I would not be surprised, nor particularly troubled, if this community took it upon itself to exact a justice unanswered by our supposed rule of law.
A further thought: perhaps the moral of the story is to promptly kill your or child's attacker, because the court system, especially certain judges, will focus solely on the constitutional rights of the accused and disregard the wellbeing of the victim and society at large.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Hiatus
Well, as of late I've been pretty good about posting; however, for the next week and change, I'll be off to Vegas with DH Jeff to see the in-laws and I will be having TOO MUCH FUN to post. Sorry about that but facts are facts. BUT I'm going to take notes on my favorite places (besides the Wynn Hotel) out there & post my thoughts, well, post-vacation. heh. See you then, renewed!
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
On depression
There's a good article in the Health section of WaPo yesterday (7/10/07) on depression from a sufferer's perspective. I can identify with much of what she says about not wanting to use meds to alleviate it; feeling like it was the easy way out; feeling relief and a sense of optimism and purpose when the meds kicked in; acknowledging that meds can make things more tolerable; but they don't magically resolve anything; however, they can be a good and useful tool when dealing with depression. Check it out.
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Morning workout update
Well, this might be an emerging habit after all. I mean working out in the morning. Yesterday, both of us worked out early in the AM & today, I went to AM spin class. If we can keep this going, it'll be a major coup! For now, I'm basking in the well-accomplished week. Yippee!
5 things: hot sauces
In the continuing series of 5 things, I’ve decided that today’s highlighted items are of a hot sauce persuasion. Now, my philosophy on hot sauces is that the perfect one is thick, chunky, garlicky and at the same time, capable of making your nose run and your mouth burn. Smoky, chipotle flavors are good too. Thin, vinegary varieties are at the lower end of pleasure – ok as a stopgap when having nothing else and when faced with bland airline food. The bounty of available thicker, hotter & tastier sauces available make this a moot point. So…here are my 5 favorites of the moment:
1. Uncle Brutha’s Fire Sauce No. 9: Chile verde, garlic & ginger. This is the most flavorful, spicy, garlicky, wonderful sauce I’ve had the pleasure to sweat over in a while. Has a nice thick consistency. My personal favorite of the moment. Can be purchased online or at Whole Foods.
2. Uncle Brutha’s Fire Sauce No. 10: Four chiles & garlic. From the same company as #1 above. Smoky, full-flavored, garlicky and with the same thick consistency as #1. Can be purchased online or at Whole Foods.
3. King Street Blues Chipotle Kick Pepper Sauce. Smoky, full-flavored, garlicky and with thick consistency. DH Jeff’s personal favorite of the moment. Personally, I prefer the Uncle Brutha’s chipotle sauce (#2 above) to this, but they’re very similar. Can be purchased at Whole Foods or I reckon, at the local King Street Blues restaurants (Arlington & Alexandria, VA).
4. D.L. Jardine’s Blazin’ Saddle Habanero Pepper Sauce. This is a nice, bright, spicy habanero (is that redundant?) sauce with a slightly thinner consistency than #s 1-3 above. Still in Renée range of thickness though. Can be purchased online, Whole Foods, or at any hot sauce emporium.
5. D.L. Jardine’s Texas Kicker Habanero Pepper Sauce. Another nice, bright, spicy habanero sauce from the D.L. Jardine’s family of sauces. This sauce is at the threshold of the acceptable thickness and consistency. Any thinner and you’ve got, well, Tabasco sauce. Can be purchased online, Whole Foods, or at any hot sauce emporium.
Honorable mentions to Melinda’s family of hot sauces* and Day of the Dead Hot Sauces. For those chile heads in your world, samplers of these make great gifts!
* Just a quick visit to Melinda’s web site revealed new varieties which I haven’t had the opportunity to taste. Honorable mention is primarily for the XXXtra Hot Sauce, readily available at grocery and gourmet stores. I’ll get back to you when I’ve had a chance to try the new ones. Wahoo! New potential favorites!
1. Uncle Brutha’s Fire Sauce No. 9: Chile verde, garlic & ginger. This is the most flavorful, spicy, garlicky, wonderful sauce I’ve had the pleasure to sweat over in a while. Has a nice thick consistency. My personal favorite of the moment. Can be purchased online or at Whole Foods.2. Uncle Brutha’s Fire Sauce No. 10: Four chiles & garlic. From the same company as #1 above. Smoky, full-flavored, garlicky and with the same thick consistency as #1. Can be purchased online or at Whole Foods.
3. King Street Blues Chipotle Kick Pepper Sauce. Smoky, full-flavored, garlicky and with thick consistency. DH Jeff’s personal favorite of the moment. Personally, I prefer the Uncle Brutha’s chipotle sauce (#2 above) to this, but they’re very similar. Can be purchased at Whole Foods or I reckon, at the local King Street Blues restaurants (Arlington & Alexandria, VA).
4. D.L. Jardine’s Blazin’ Saddle Habanero Pepper Sauce. This is a nice, bright, spicy habanero (is that redundant?) sauce with a slightly thinner consistency than #s 1-3 above. Still in Renée range of thickness though. Can be purchased online, Whole Foods, or at any hot sauce emporium.
5. D.L. Jardine’s Texas Kicker Habanero Pepper Sauce. Another nice, bright, spicy habanero sauce from the D.L. Jardine’s family of sauces. This sauce is at the threshold of the acceptable thickness and consistency. Any thinner and you’ve got, well, Tabasco sauce. Can be purchased online, Whole Foods, or at any hot sauce emporium.
Honorable mentions to Melinda’s family of hot sauces* and Day of the Dead Hot Sauces. For those chile heads in your world, samplers of these make great gifts!
* Just a quick visit to Melinda’s web site revealed new varieties which I haven’t had the opportunity to taste. Honorable mention is primarily for the XXXtra Hot Sauce, readily available at grocery and gourmet stores. I’ll get back to you when I’ve had a chance to try the new ones. Wahoo! New potential favorites!
Run, Nic, run!
I must confess, I'm between bemused and smitten with the new French president, Nicolas Sarkozy. He's pro-American, law and order, his own man - and not Chirac. Now I have one more reason to like him: in today's WaPo is an article about how he just loves to run (usually in his favorite NYPD tshirt!), which is causing a complete uproar in the French press and with French intellectuals because evidently it's "un-French" to jog. Sarkozy could care less. Ha! Read the whole article here.Photo credit: Remy De La Mauviniere, Associated Press; Washington Post, July 7, 2007.
Monday, July 02, 2007
More from the religion of heinous violence
Well, if you've been keeping up on current events, then you know about the whole Glasgow airport thing and the cars and stuff. And I suppose, you know by now that these actions were not taken by a bunch a sparked-up Presbyterian grandmothers from Boise, right?
My question is, why does the West think it can continue to appease, placate, pander to or just ignore these folks whose mission is to kill-kill-kill us? This must stop and we (the broad Western "we") must put our collective foot down. These actions are not just criminal, they're terrorist in nature. They will not stop. Why aren't we really fighting back?
I fear it's getting to be too late & the civilized world is done for. I'd love to see someone prove me wrong, but unless we start taking decisive action against this threat, it will be too late. Writing on wall, people!
My question is, why does the West think it can continue to appease, placate, pander to or just ignore these folks whose mission is to kill-kill-kill us? This must stop and we (the broad Western "we") must put our collective foot down. These actions are not just criminal, they're terrorist in nature. They will not stop. Why aren't we really fighting back?
I fear it's getting to be too late & the civilized world is done for. I'd love to see someone prove me wrong, but unless we start taking decisive action against this threat, it will be too late. Writing on wall, people!
Wonders never cease
Ok, so maybe it's not quite a pattern yet, but it cannot be called a complete fluke. Speaking of my early morning exercise, that is. This morning, I actually got myself up, pulled on clothes and running shoes & went running, then to the gym for some weights.
The mere fact that I was able to wrench myself from a perfectly comfortable bed with my perfectly cuddly husband this morning at 5:45am (imagine!) and actually was able to leave the apartment without wimping out and diving back into bed is noteworthy, don't you think?
Oh, if I could do this 5 times a week! Wow, having my whole evening free! Not having to motivate myself after work! Not having to fight crowds at the gym! Going to work knowing I've done right by my body! Wahoo!
Ok, here's the test: tomorrow morning, 6:15am, there's a spin class at the gym. Let's see if BOTH Renee & Jeff can make it! Wow, then when class is over, we could toddle down to Whole Foods and grab some coffee and noshes on the way home! I'm so excited! We must actualize this plan! Wahoo!
UPDATE: We didn't make it to spin, but we went and did weights. Anyhow, we made it to the gym! This could be a trend...
The mere fact that I was able to wrench myself from a perfectly comfortable bed with my perfectly cuddly husband this morning at 5:45am (imagine!) and actually was able to leave the apartment without wimping out and diving back into bed is noteworthy, don't you think?
Oh, if I could do this 5 times a week! Wow, having my whole evening free! Not having to motivate myself after work! Not having to fight crowds at the gym! Going to work knowing I've done right by my body! Wahoo!
Ok, here's the test: tomorrow morning, 6:15am, there's a spin class at the gym. Let's see if BOTH Renee & Jeff can make it! Wow, then when class is over, we could toddle down to Whole Foods and grab some coffee and noshes on the way home! I'm so excited! We must actualize this plan! Wahoo!
UPDATE: We didn't make it to spin, but we went and did weights. Anyhow, we made it to the gym! This could be a trend...
Friday, June 29, 2007
2nd shot at amnesty bill killed
And thank goodness for that. The bill, no matter what amendments were added, was still horrible legislation, which at best would have no effect (completely unenforceable and therefore ignored) and at worst, would reward illegal behavior; the added legalized foreign nationals completely overwhelming the already strained capacity of the FBI, DHS, etc., to process applications & background checks (I mean, come on, they already have backlogs in the hundreds of thousands and can’t seem to keep track of the files they’re currently processing); not to mention social and healthcare services (because with legalization comes greater access to welfare, food stamps, medicaid, etc., and the need to process even greater volumes of applicants than before).
No, the bill wasn’t “reform,” no, it wasn’t an “overhaul” and no, it wouldn’t have improved any immigration issues; it is just a misbegotten, voluminous mess and ultimately, a huge waste of taxpayers’ money. Illegals aren’t following the law anyway (either rushing the border or overstaying their visas), so what makes these yahoos think they would fall cooperatively in line and observe all the convoluted rules according to this proposed law (going back to their country, renewing guest-worker visas, etc.)? We have immigration laws on the books already, but what we’ve (the U.S.) shown them (the illegals), is that we’re willing to disregard our laws or unevenly apply them. To a person coming from somewhere like Mexico, wherein there are plenty of unenforced laws (rule of law is notional at best) and almost anything can be bought, maneuvered or extorted, this country and our governance thereof may only seem to be a better functioning variety of their native environment. And they have and will act accordingly.
Furthermore, because historically (read: after 1986 amnesty), such laws didn’t result in secure borders; because millions of tax dollars have been wasted on non-functioning systems (software, for instance) to track deportees, dangerous illegal alien criminals, or just visa over-stayers; and because even if the systems do work, they aren’t used consistently by agencies or available to and shared throughout law enforcement and intelligence agencies [read Michelle Malkin’s book Invasion for details about these fiascos], there is little hope that such a complicated, impractical scheme such as this bill would resolve anything at all. As it could make things a whole lot worse, I’m hoping this monster won’t be re-animated.
Read the WaPo article on its recent demise here.
No, the bill wasn’t “reform,” no, it wasn’t an “overhaul” and no, it wouldn’t have improved any immigration issues; it is just a misbegotten, voluminous mess and ultimately, a huge waste of taxpayers’ money. Illegals aren’t following the law anyway (either rushing the border or overstaying their visas), so what makes these yahoos think they would fall cooperatively in line and observe all the convoluted rules according to this proposed law (going back to their country, renewing guest-worker visas, etc.)? We have immigration laws on the books already, but what we’ve (the U.S.) shown them (the illegals), is that we’re willing to disregard our laws or unevenly apply them. To a person coming from somewhere like Mexico, wherein there are plenty of unenforced laws (rule of law is notional at best) and almost anything can be bought, maneuvered or extorted, this country and our governance thereof may only seem to be a better functioning variety of their native environment. And they have and will act accordingly.
Furthermore, because historically (read: after 1986 amnesty), such laws didn’t result in secure borders; because millions of tax dollars have been wasted on non-functioning systems (software, for instance) to track deportees, dangerous illegal alien criminals, or just visa over-stayers; and because even if the systems do work, they aren’t used consistently by agencies or available to and shared throughout law enforcement and intelligence agencies [read Michelle Malkin’s book Invasion for details about these fiascos], there is little hope that such a complicated, impractical scheme such as this bill would resolve anything at all. As it could make things a whole lot worse, I’m hoping this monster won’t be re-animated.
Read the WaPo article on its recent demise here.
Monday, June 25, 2007
States take on immigration
Today in WaPo There was an article about how several states are stepping up to the plate and putting forth bills that target illegal immigration in ways that could be effective in discouraging the continued presence of these scofflaws in their states. Clearly, many constituents are frustrated with the lack of meaningful action by federal government to stop the flood of illegal immigration, and their state-level representatives are actually doing something about that frustration. These bills include limits on illegals’ access to government services, ability to hold jobs and to acquire driver’s licenses, as well as enabling law enforcement to inquire about a person’s legal status and detain those who are here illegally. I think this is a very positive trend and if passed, these bills may indeed create a hostile environment for illegal immigrants in the respective states. There’s more than one way to skin this cat and it’s nice to see state lawmakers taking ownership of their own state’s situation. Read the whole article here.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Movie Review: Pan's Labyrinth
Pan’s Labyrinth involves a fairy tale, but make no mistake about it – this is not a kid’s story. The protagonist, a young girl named Ofelia creates this fairy tale world to buffer herself from the very traumatic and violent real world around her. Her pregnant mother is married to a sadistic captain in the Spanish army in 1944 fascist Spain. The captain insists that his wife join him at the front of current fighting against the communist rebellion even though she’s dangerously close to giving birth. As Ofelia’s real existence becomes more lonely, isolated and precarious, she delves deeper into the realm of the fantastic, wherein she attempts to prove herself as worthy to become Princess of that realm.
I would highly recommend this film. Even with subtitles (the movie is in Spanish), the movie draws you into the dark real and mystical action. Really good characters all around: the winsome and brave Ofelia, the brutal captain Vidal, the kindly Mercedes, the wise, old Pan and the creepy guy with eyes in his hands. The violence is shocking, but not gratuitous. And I found it interesting, even with my limited Spanish, to contrast what was actually being said with the subtitle translation.
I would highly recommend this film. Even with subtitles (the movie is in Spanish), the movie draws you into the dark real and mystical action. Really good characters all around: the winsome and brave Ofelia, the brutal captain Vidal, the kindly Mercedes, the wise, old Pan and the creepy guy with eyes in his hands. The violence is shocking, but not gratuitous. And I found it interesting, even with my limited Spanish, to contrast what was actually being said with the subtitle translation.
Friday, June 22, 2007
5 things to say
I had an interesting interpersonal encounter today while walking back from Corner Bakery (lunch). And by interesting, I mean “revolting.” A young black woman (I suspect teenage or early twenties) stopped me and after buttering me up (yes, I know this is a good outfit –I picked it out, didn’t I?), asked me for money for food, because: I’m homeless AND pregnant.
Ok, I’m irritated that anyone would come up to me, a stranger, and demand money. Like, don’t I pay enough taxes to take care of the problem and preclude such encounters? Aren’t I gouged in taxes because I DON’T have children? They have it backwards: I should be paid for NOT having children. But I digress.
I’m not quick in these situations; I never have a snappy come-back until later. Then it’s not so snappy. After all, I may have only 4 brain cells playing bumpercar upstairs, but this was obviously 3 more than the lonely one floating in the dark that this chick was entertaining. Very lonely and understimulated.
Rambling aside, I belatedly thought of a few things to say. Here goes:
1. So where’s the sperm-donor? Why not hit him up for cash? Oh, I know, because he’s out impregnating other stupid girls. So he can brag about all his progeny without actually supporting them.
2. Give me one good reason why I should care what happens to you or your bastard child? And don’t say, “because we need a larger underclass.”
3. What kind of moron throws contraceptive caution to the wind when already homeless? Oh, wait a minute, I’ve answered my own question.
4. Sorry, those funds are earmarked for my new Jimmy Choo’s.
5. Alternately: Sorry, those funds are earmarked for my new boobs.
Ok, I think that’s enough for now. My poor little neurons are tuckered out. If I come up with other zingers, I’ll let you know. And remember boys and girls, responsibility you have to work at, but stupidity is easy and free.
Ok, I’m irritated that anyone would come up to me, a stranger, and demand money. Like, don’t I pay enough taxes to take care of the problem and preclude such encounters? Aren’t I gouged in taxes because I DON’T have children? They have it backwards: I should be paid for NOT having children. But I digress.
I’m not quick in these situations; I never have a snappy come-back until later. Then it’s not so snappy. After all, I may have only 4 brain cells playing bumpercar upstairs, but this was obviously 3 more than the lonely one floating in the dark that this chick was entertaining. Very lonely and understimulated.
Rambling aside, I belatedly thought of a few things to say. Here goes:
1. So where’s the sperm-donor? Why not hit him up for cash? Oh, I know, because he’s out impregnating other stupid girls. So he can brag about all his progeny without actually supporting them.
2. Give me one good reason why I should care what happens to you or your bastard child? And don’t say, “because we need a larger underclass.”
3. What kind of moron throws contraceptive caution to the wind when already homeless? Oh, wait a minute, I’ve answered my own question.
4. Sorry, those funds are earmarked for my new Jimmy Choo’s.
5. Alternately: Sorry, those funds are earmarked for my new boobs.
Ok, I think that’s enough for now. My poor little neurons are tuckered out. If I come up with other zingers, I’ll let you know. And remember boys and girls, responsibility you have to work at, but stupidity is easy and free.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
This morning...
...I woke up at 4am and couldn't get back to sleep. Finally, after trying for about an hour and a half, I decided enough already. Better to get up and do something productive rather than lie in bed wide-awake and achieve nothing more than irritability. So, what was that productive activity at 5:30 in the morning, you ask? Well, I threw on clothes and went running in the neighborhood - and then went to the gym to do a weights workout. I know, this doesn't seem possible as it usually takes an act of God to get me going in the morning, but today it all fell into place.
Let me just say that running at that hour of the morning was the most beautiful experience I've had in awhile. It's quiet, calm and fresh, no humidity and the temperature perfect(70s?). The lawns are neatly mowed and green. There are just a few motorists out so it's safe. I ran down streets that I hadn't before and checked out the new houses being built. Oh, if I could rouse myself every morning to do this, I'd be a happy camper.
Now, however, I just want to curl up and go back to sleep.
Let me just say that running at that hour of the morning was the most beautiful experience I've had in awhile. It's quiet, calm and fresh, no humidity and the temperature perfect(70s?). The lawns are neatly mowed and green. There are just a few motorists out so it's safe. I ran down streets that I hadn't before and checked out the new houses being built. Oh, if I could rouse myself every morning to do this, I'd be a happy camper.
Now, however, I just want to curl up and go back to sleep.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
On manners
I've noticed - and have commented tangentially on - people's manners when it comes to social events at people's homes. You've heard my rants on the issues with Book Club and such. Well, pretty recently DH Jeff came up with the idea/concept of having a monthly "Sunday Dinner" like those dinners with family growing up. It was [originally] a chance for Jeff to stretch his culinary skills (as he is the primary cook in our household) and, of course, another excuse for us to be social.
It has been very successful, I think. This last Sunday I took the helm on cooking & was pleasantly surprised (?) how well everything came out. [Sidebar: part of my motivation was a little healthy competition for Jeff and part of it was not wanting to be pidgeon-holed as the booze-hound-in-chief. I am what I am, but who wants that as an epitaph? Also, no one notices all the hard work that went into making the place clean - they just notice when it's not clean] Also, that we attracted a good group and everyone seemed to be having a good time. So far, so good.
But: there were two people we invited who said they would come, who inexplicably didn't show up. There were no phone calls or emails saying they couldn't come, at the last minute. These were two who had done the same thing in the past. You know, at this age - and both parties are around my age - I don't think I should have to remind you to have manners, and yet...it seems beyond some people to exercise a little courtesy.
In the past - and I've mentioned this before - I used to be that way. I'd never give a solid response - just "maybe" and then if if I said yes, sometimes not show up. And then at some point I had an "Aha! Moment": these people don't have to invite me AT ALL and here I am treating them and their hospitality so casually, so dismissively. NOT ANY MORE. Now I'm usually the first to RSVP. No, you won't have to wait for me. I appreciate that you bothered to invite me to your whatever and understand that puting on even a small gathering involves time, effort, planning and yes, money. If I have no scheduling conflicts, I'll (now we'll) be there & will bring some token offering (wine, mostly).
Evidently, some folks can't grasp this concept...and are probably miffed when I bring it to their attention. Well, it's not all about you - do you get that?
Enough, already. I want to thank all of those who do have manners, who do bother, and show how they value our hospitality and friendship - it's most certainly not lost on me!
It has been very successful, I think. This last Sunday I took the helm on cooking & was pleasantly surprised (?) how well everything came out. [Sidebar: part of my motivation was a little healthy competition for Jeff and part of it was not wanting to be pidgeon-holed as the booze-hound-in-chief. I am what I am, but who wants that as an epitaph? Also, no one notices all the hard work that went into making the place clean - they just notice when it's not clean] Also, that we attracted a good group and everyone seemed to be having a good time. So far, so good.
But: there were two people we invited who said they would come, who inexplicably didn't show up. There were no phone calls or emails saying they couldn't come, at the last minute. These were two who had done the same thing in the past. You know, at this age - and both parties are around my age - I don't think I should have to remind you to have manners, and yet...it seems beyond some people to exercise a little courtesy.
In the past - and I've mentioned this before - I used to be that way. I'd never give a solid response - just "maybe" and then if if I said yes, sometimes not show up. And then at some point I had an "Aha! Moment": these people don't have to invite me AT ALL and here I am treating them and their hospitality so casually, so dismissively. NOT ANY MORE. Now I'm usually the first to RSVP. No, you won't have to wait for me. I appreciate that you bothered to invite me to your whatever and understand that puting on even a small gathering involves time, effort, planning and yes, money. If I have no scheduling conflicts, I'll (now we'll) be there & will bring some token offering (wine, mostly).
Evidently, some folks can't grasp this concept...and are probably miffed when I bring it to their attention. Well, it's not all about you - do you get that?
Enough, already. I want to thank all of those who do have manners, who do bother, and show how they value our hospitality and friendship - it's most certainly not lost on me!
Thursday, June 14, 2007
In memoriam
Yesterday, one of my uncles died after being on the healthwise decline for awhile. After talking with my mom, I understand he died peacefully, thank goodness.
Just wanted to post a little tribute to my Uncle Moses:
Although I didn’t know you well, I can say that you were a kind and giving person, a man who served your country well, a patriot, a real character and a heck of a good story-teller (that last part is high praise from me!).
May your afterlife be as interesting yet easier-going than your life here had been.
Cheers!
Just wanted to post a little tribute to my Uncle Moses:
Although I didn’t know you well, I can say that you were a kind and giving person, a man who served your country well, a patriot, a real character and a heck of a good story-teller (that last part is high praise from me!).
May your afterlife be as interesting yet easier-going than your life here had been.
Cheers!
Venting
[UPDATE]: Coordinator emailed me about the whole thing and all is well. Evidently, the late night wasn't alright with members, so the 9pm cut-off this week was an attempt to reign things in. Promised to review my piece the next critique. Call me fickle, but now I'm not sure I want the piece reviewed or want to continue with the story line at all. As much as I've been enjoying the group, I've also been addressing it like school - as in assignments. As in pressure. I need to just back off and take it easy. Especially with everything else going on. We'll see.
Ok, I know I should be “bigger person” or more of a grown-up about this, but tough, I’m not and I need to vent. Last evening at writing group we were critiquing works and my submission was supposed to be last because chronologically, I had submitted it last of the entries. No problem, that system is fair. After all the others had been addressed thoroughly, and I had given what I hoped were encouraging-yet-helpful comments and waited patiently for my turn, however, we “ran out of time” at 9pm. Which essentially means that my piece (a first chapter of a proposed novel) won’t be considered at all, even at a later time unless I press the issue at the next critiquing session. So, basically, it would just drop off the radar.
Now, last week, the meeting was going strong at 9:30-ish when DH Jeff & I left. But evidently, that was ok.
I tried to be an adult about it last night, at least until we left the meeting. Sure, folks can email me with comments. No problem. Now, one nice gal had actually written comments for me. I appreciated that. But no one else bothered.
But after we cleared the building, I expressed my really pissy mood. DH Jeff found it hard to relate because his story had been reviewed, thoroughly. But, he rightly suggested that next time I specifically ask to go first. Yes, good idea and so is submitting early so I’m first on the list. Yep, I’ll work on that. Doesn’t really help my mood now.
Let’s have some context for this situation:
- After an exceedingly tedious day at work, I was looking forward to the meeting & feedback
- I managed to review all the submitted works and gave the authors my notes, which clearly was a waste of effort on my part
- I had not exercised all week and in light of the lack of satisfaction with the meeting, my time would have been better spent at the gym. At the very least, I could have gotten some endorphins out the deal.
- To add insult to injury, it was thundershowering when we headed home and – our apartment lost power!
What a brilliant evening. The only high point was dinner out: a very good Japanese Rockfish and grilled asparagus dish. And the waiter was nice. And I didn’t have to clean up afterwards.
OK, rant over.
Ok, I know I should be “bigger person” or more of a grown-up about this, but tough, I’m not and I need to vent. Last evening at writing group we were critiquing works and my submission was supposed to be last because chronologically, I had submitted it last of the entries. No problem, that system is fair. After all the others had been addressed thoroughly, and I had given what I hoped were encouraging-yet-helpful comments and waited patiently for my turn, however, we “ran out of time” at 9pm. Which essentially means that my piece (a first chapter of a proposed novel) won’t be considered at all, even at a later time unless I press the issue at the next critiquing session. So, basically, it would just drop off the radar.
Now, last week, the meeting was going strong at 9:30-ish when DH Jeff & I left. But evidently, that was ok.
I tried to be an adult about it last night, at least until we left the meeting. Sure, folks can email me with comments. No problem. Now, one nice gal had actually written comments for me. I appreciated that. But no one else bothered.
But after we cleared the building, I expressed my really pissy mood. DH Jeff found it hard to relate because his story had been reviewed, thoroughly. But, he rightly suggested that next time I specifically ask to go first. Yes, good idea and so is submitting early so I’m first on the list. Yep, I’ll work on that. Doesn’t really help my mood now.
Let’s have some context for this situation:
- After an exceedingly tedious day at work, I was looking forward to the meeting & feedback
- I managed to review all the submitted works and gave the authors my notes, which clearly was a waste of effort on my part
- I had not exercised all week and in light of the lack of satisfaction with the meeting, my time would have been better spent at the gym. At the very least, I could have gotten some endorphins out the deal.
- To add insult to injury, it was thundershowering when we headed home and – our apartment lost power!
What a brilliant evening. The only high point was dinner out: a very good Japanese Rockfish and grilled asparagus dish. And the waiter was nice. And I didn’t have to clean up afterwards.
OK, rant over.
Friday, June 08, 2007
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Book Review: Death's Acre
Death’s Acre by Bill Bass and Jon Jefferson is the real-life story of how Dr. Bass started the Anthropological Research Facility at the University of Tennessee, otherwise known as the Body Farm. At the Body Farm, they do experiments to study human decomposition in all its aspects: entomologically, how it’s affected by temperature, weather conditions, clothing, location (such as in a car, in a structure, etc.), and just about anything one can think of.
Although the subject matter of the Body Farm has a high “Eww Factor,” the book is very accessible (even to those who don’t find this stuff as fascinating as I do) due to Dr. Bass’s way of describing his stops along the way, his motivations and his influences (both personal & professional) which led him to develop this research facility (which I believe is the only one of its kind in the world). After reading the book, one understands the importance of such research in crime-solving and even crime prevention. Plus, the real-life forensics stuff is just neat. Dr. Bass tells his story with humor, humility and a sense of mission. That’s refreshing no matter what the subject matter.
Although the subject matter of the Body Farm has a high “Eww Factor,” the book is very accessible (even to those who don’t find this stuff as fascinating as I do) due to Dr. Bass’s way of describing his stops along the way, his motivations and his influences (both personal & professional) which led him to develop this research facility (which I believe is the only one of its kind in the world). After reading the book, one understands the importance of such research in crime-solving and even crime prevention. Plus, the real-life forensics stuff is just neat. Dr. Bass tells his story with humor, humility and a sense of mission. That’s refreshing no matter what the subject matter.
Book Review: Beauty Junkies
Beauty Junkies, by Alex Kuczynski, gives us the history of plastic and cosmetic surgery, the charlatans, the risks, the popularity especially in the U.S. and its ridiculous extremes. The story is told deftly, with humor and a sense of veritas: the author herself had undergone several procedures, including one that had the unintended effect of swelling her mouth to grotesque proportions (a severe response and fortunately for her, a temporary one). This last experience compelled her to wean herself from her growing obsession with cosmetic surgery and procedures.
I’ve never been a fan of purely cosmetic surgery or injections. If it’s not broken, no need to operate on it or stick a needle in it (yeh, yeh, I’m for tattoos, but big difference between a little ink and a dangerous toxin). The thought of having foreign objects stuffed under my skin, especially since they can burst, harden, leak and migrate – just to fill someone’s aesthetic profile – pretty much disgusts me. Ditto, shots in the forehead or other places on the face, forceable Hoovering of fat from one’s rear-end, and the cutting and stretching of facial skin. I find it disturbing and ridiculous that younger and younger women are opting for procedures. I mean, it’s positively asshatted of parents to give their daughter a gift of new boobs for graduation.
Now, although this trend of surgical change doesn’t only apply to females, it’s with the females that it is most prevalent and to me, most offensive: to change oneself into the porn star mold (i.e., sexual object), to reduce one’s features so the result is a person indistinguishable form scores of other blandly appealing “beauties” (i.e., loss of that which makes us unique) or to chase youth as if it were the only thing worth having. We’ve come so far as women, only to reduce our efforts - by drastic and dangerous means - to, well, attracting men.
It’s sad that the inner selves of these people – intellect, creativity, personality, achievement – is so neglected and disparaged – in order to maintain a superficial and ultimately impermanent illusion. Ms. Kuczynski, in fact, discusses a woman for whom her appearance – and all the supporting procedures – is ALL she does with her time and money. This book is a cautionary tale, and an honest and entertaining – if disheartening – read.
I’ve never been a fan of purely cosmetic surgery or injections. If it’s not broken, no need to operate on it or stick a needle in it (yeh, yeh, I’m for tattoos, but big difference between a little ink and a dangerous toxin). The thought of having foreign objects stuffed under my skin, especially since they can burst, harden, leak and migrate – just to fill someone’s aesthetic profile – pretty much disgusts me. Ditto, shots in the forehead or other places on the face, forceable Hoovering of fat from one’s rear-end, and the cutting and stretching of facial skin. I find it disturbing and ridiculous that younger and younger women are opting for procedures. I mean, it’s positively asshatted of parents to give their daughter a gift of new boobs for graduation.
Now, although this trend of surgical change doesn’t only apply to females, it’s with the females that it is most prevalent and to me, most offensive: to change oneself into the porn star mold (i.e., sexual object), to reduce one’s features so the result is a person indistinguishable form scores of other blandly appealing “beauties” (i.e., loss of that which makes us unique) or to chase youth as if it were the only thing worth having. We’ve come so far as women, only to reduce our efforts - by drastic and dangerous means - to, well, attracting men.
It’s sad that the inner selves of these people – intellect, creativity, personality, achievement – is so neglected and disparaged – in order to maintain a superficial and ultimately impermanent illusion. Ms. Kuczynski, in fact, discusses a woman for whom her appearance – and all the supporting procedures – is ALL she does with her time and money. This book is a cautionary tale, and an honest and entertaining – if disheartening – read.
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
I woke up on the wrong side of the bed...
...well, actually I fell asleep in the living room floor after a late dinner last night and woke up at 4 this morning. Then when trying to sleep IN OUR COMFORTABLE BED, my stupid mind was racing along, making that difficult. I did doze off, only to have to wake up 3 hours later. I was not a happy camper. Actually I was UNPLEASANT. Not Jeff's fault, but he did have to deal with it.
To add insult to injury, that little goo on my lower abdomen that I was finally getting rid of - was back with a vengeance thanks to too much sangria as of late, and having pizza TWICE in one week (can't have just two slices!), and not having worked out AT ALL this week. You know, I may be 41, but my body hasn't been thru the ravages of pregnancy or childbirth, or any other major thing, so what the hell's my problem? Oh, I've answered my own question.
Then, I go to work and have a series of irritations that made me want to just go home and cry. or sleep. both at the same time?
And, I'm just feeling a bit overwhelmed about all the stuff we're trying to do: reading, writing, socializing, hosting, etc. It's been good and fun, but kinda crazy.
Not to mention, that heinous amnesty bill is probably going to pass. See the reader comment on my Thomas Sowell post below for the myriad reasons why this is stupid, unworkable, damaging, and the best part: punishes AmCits while rewarding the invaders overrunning the country. Watch our futures end. It would be less disingenuous for "our leaders" to say: we're selling out America; aiding the collapse of the healthcare and other systems; don't give a damn about assimilation or having one language; don't care about patriotism or even if the US survives as a nation. Heck, let's just give it away to whichever squatter happens to find his way into the country by whatever means. So, just suck it up, folks.
Anyhoo, tomorrow will be another day...the bill will still suck, the leadership still missing in action, but my attitude may indeed be better.
To add insult to injury, that little goo on my lower abdomen that I was finally getting rid of - was back with a vengeance thanks to too much sangria as of late, and having pizza TWICE in one week (can't have just two slices!), and not having worked out AT ALL this week. You know, I may be 41, but my body hasn't been thru the ravages of pregnancy or childbirth, or any other major thing, so what the hell's my problem? Oh, I've answered my own question.
Then, I go to work and have a series of irritations that made me want to just go home and cry. or sleep. both at the same time?
And, I'm just feeling a bit overwhelmed about all the stuff we're trying to do: reading, writing, socializing, hosting, etc. It's been good and fun, but kinda crazy.
Not to mention, that heinous amnesty bill is probably going to pass. See the reader comment on my Thomas Sowell post below for the myriad reasons why this is stupid, unworkable, damaging, and the best part: punishes AmCits while rewarding the invaders overrunning the country. Watch our futures end. It would be less disingenuous for "our leaders" to say: we're selling out America; aiding the collapse of the healthcare and other systems; don't give a damn about assimilation or having one language; don't care about patriotism or even if the US survives as a nation. Heck, let's just give it away to whichever squatter happens to find his way into the country by whatever means. So, just suck it up, folks.
Anyhoo, tomorrow will be another day...the bill will still suck, the leadership still missing in action, but my attitude may indeed be better.
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
On feminism
The other evening we had some guests for dinner and the topic of feminism came up. I made a face showing my distain. After the fact, I realized that my DH Jeff knew exactly in what context and from what attitude my distain came...because he's been around me awhile and he knows me. But others may be a little confused about my expression.
When "feminism" meant (if, indeed, it ever did) universal suffrage, full participation in one's country governance and political life (including holding office), equal pay for equal work, equal protection under the law, etc, then I say, "Go team!" But because it's become synonymous with "abortionista," (that is, the attitude that abortion rights are essential to women's power, an unalienable right, essential to women's health - I mean give me a break), with perpetual victimhood (the patriarchy! the patriarchy!), equal quantities of men-bashing, the NOW folks, etc - well, that's when I make the face. Come on, grow up.
OK, gotta go. I'm trying to get my thoughts out there...
When "feminism" meant (if, indeed, it ever did) universal suffrage, full participation in one's country governance and political life (including holding office), equal pay for equal work, equal protection under the law, etc, then I say, "Go team!" But because it's become synonymous with "abortionista," (that is, the attitude that abortion rights are essential to women's power, an unalienable right, essential to women's health - I mean give me a break), with perpetual victimhood (the patriarchy! the patriarchy!), equal quantities of men-bashing, the NOW folks, etc - well, that's when I make the face. Come on, grow up.
OK, gotta go. I'm trying to get my thoughts out there...
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Amnesty bill commentary must-read
Ok, ok, haven't been blogging much, but a lot has been going on. More about that to follow. Never-the-less, here is a spot-on commentary about the whole retched amnesty mess, by the wonderful Thomas Sowell.
Hat tip: The Stein Report.
Hat tip: The Stein Report.
Friday, April 27, 2007
It's about governance
Occasionally, when I talk to friends and coworkers who are from different countries (read: not American Citizens) living and working here, the subject of voting has come up. And by voting, I mean this: they posit that because they work - pay taxes - in the US, they should be able to vote in elections. Believe it or not, this has come up several times.
For the sake of argument, let's put my response this way: let's say I worked in YOUR country. I paid your taxes. Would I think that by virtue of that I had the right to participate in the governance of YOUR country? The answer is NO, resoundingly. I'm not a citizen or subject of YOUR country, therefore I have no stake in YOUR country, and I have no right to weigh in on its rule. If I don't like what YOUR country in any part is doing, if it's that offensive, I leave. Afterall, I'm a GUEST in YOUR country.
Why is it that just by virtue of paying taxes in another country, not YOUR own, would you presume the right to participate in its rule? Paying taxes in someone else's country is the cost of doing business - if you don't like it, well, you really don't have a say.
For the sake of argument, let's put my response this way: let's say I worked in YOUR country. I paid your taxes. Would I think that by virtue of that I had the right to participate in the governance of YOUR country? The answer is NO, resoundingly. I'm not a citizen or subject of YOUR country, therefore I have no stake in YOUR country, and I have no right to weigh in on its rule. If I don't like what YOUR country in any part is doing, if it's that offensive, I leave. Afterall, I'm a GUEST in YOUR country.
Why is it that just by virtue of paying taxes in another country, not YOUR own, would you presume the right to participate in its rule? Paying taxes in someone else's country is the cost of doing business - if you don't like it, well, you really don't have a say.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Sell-outs.
Yesterday's WaPo ran a story of a illegal haven town in New Jersey. Basically the town is making it attractive to illegals to be there, treating them as legitimate residents, offering all sorts of "free" services like bilingual computer classes, "health fairs," etc. Basically thumbing their noses at federal immigration law.
First, nothing is FREE - someone - taxpayers - is paying for it. Do the legal residents realize this or in their idiocy think that "the government" is paying for it?
Second, actually more important, is the fact that there are cities and towns across the country that are actively (as opposed to just accepting the uncontrolled influx of illegals) accomodating a population that has no business being in the country at all. So...if these invaders are acquiring so many rights and privileges - with no real accountability, legality, loyalty, legitimacy, choose your own word, what's left for those of us who are citizens? These cities and towns are selling us out, plain and simple. But, no moreso than our president and his administration.
First, nothing is FREE - someone - taxpayers - is paying for it. Do the legal residents realize this or in their idiocy think that "the government" is paying for it?
Second, actually more important, is the fact that there are cities and towns across the country that are actively (as opposed to just accepting the uncontrolled influx of illegals) accomodating a population that has no business being in the country at all. So...if these invaders are acquiring so many rights and privileges - with no real accountability, legality, loyalty, legitimacy, choose your own word, what's left for those of us who are citizens? These cities and towns are selling us out, plain and simple. But, no moreso than our president and his administration.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Science geek moment
So many things to comment on, so little time...which is why I'm far behind in my posts. However, here's a little science geek thrill moment in the news (yeh, yeh, last week, but still): a Rockville, MD, based team circumnavigated the world, collecting DNA from marine microbes. Evidently, there's a lot out there & this expedition was just a start, yielding discoveries of new life forms and ones that could prove extremely valuable in medicine as well as just neat. Read the whole thing here.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
On the bright side...
...did I mention how HAPPY I am that DC enacted its smoking ban in restaurants and bars?
This weekend DH Jeff & I were having sangria at the Jaleo's bar while we waited for friends to join us. And it was pleasant! No acrid smoke! No irritated lungs or watery eyes! I didn't even mind when it got crowded! Wow! Jeff mentioned the same thing. I'm like, "Yippee!"
This has to be the most enlightened legislation the District has enacted in - well, forever!
Now, you say, jeez, isn't that awfully nanny state of you, Renee? Well, here's where I explain that I'd be a libertarian if not for people and their human nature. Please explain to me why it ever was acceptable to share your smoke? Oh yeh, you have the right to carry out this systematic poisoning of YOURSELF, but do you have the right to impose it on others? And why should I avoid bars and other places because they haven't achieved enlightenment in this sense? Sometimes legislation is necessary to enforce behavior that folks won't voluntarily carry out on their own.
Virginia in general, however, hasn't reached this point of enlightenment, BUT, I was pleasantly surprised that a neighborhood restaurant, Clarendon Woodgrill, VOLUNTARILY went smoke-free! Wonders never cease!
Technorati topic: smoking, politics
This weekend DH Jeff & I were having sangria at the Jaleo's bar while we waited for friends to join us. And it was pleasant! No acrid smoke! No irritated lungs or watery eyes! I didn't even mind when it got crowded! Wow! Jeff mentioned the same thing. I'm like, "Yippee!"
This has to be the most enlightened legislation the District has enacted in - well, forever!
Now, you say, jeez, isn't that awfully nanny state of you, Renee? Well, here's where I explain that I'd be a libertarian if not for people and their human nature. Please explain to me why it ever was acceptable to share your smoke? Oh yeh, you have the right to carry out this systematic poisoning of YOURSELF, but do you have the right to impose it on others? And why should I avoid bars and other places because they haven't achieved enlightenment in this sense? Sometimes legislation is necessary to enforce behavior that folks won't voluntarily carry out on their own.
Virginia in general, however, hasn't reached this point of enlightenment, BUT, I was pleasantly surprised that a neighborhood restaurant, Clarendon Woodgrill, VOLUNTARILY went smoke-free! Wonders never cease!
Technorati topic: smoking, politics
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Because they're all so law-abiding
There's an article in WaPo today about an Arlngton woman (around my age, no less) who was attacked, beaten and sodomized with a stick by - anyone, anyone? - an illegal foreign national from El Salvador, while she walking on a bike path. Wow! Our county/state/country is richer for his inclusion! Wait a minute, no it's not - although he faces life in prison, that's on our dime and he's only 18-years-old. Why can't we just execute him and let whatever diety exists (if indeed one does) deal with his soul (if indeed he has one)? Furthermore, why was he in our country in the first place? Anyone, anyone, Bueller? Silence.
Technorati topic: immigration, crime
Technorati topic: immigration, crime
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