12.22.2008
Ever heard of a broom?!
[caption id="attachment_275" align="alignnone" width="400" caption="Snowing in the parking lot!"][/caption]
I'm going to vent for the next several lines/ paragraphs.
The first major winter storm of the season hit the Northeast this past weekend. Very good news indeed as I love winter, snow, and cold weather! Apparently this news isn't as well received for many people all over the area...
Why do I state such a random piece of conjecture? Driving around for merely an hour today proved that people are either lazy, ignorant, lazy, unsafe, lazy, ignorant, unsafe... you get the point. What I'm getting at is this:
Why don't people completely clean the snow off of their cars/ trucks? I don't get it- I saw dozens of cars moving along the roadways today as I was driving to/ from work, several of which were completely cleared off and many (too many) that were only partially cleared off.
I saw some cars that had only the windshield and back window cleared, some cars with a foot of snow on the roof, some cars with only the windshield and drivers side window cleared, and yes- even some cars with only a "peep hole" carved out on the windshield. Yes, you read all of those words correctly. Why is it that people can't be bothered to completely clear off their cars?
My immediate reaction was that I was seeing many older people who "can't" get to their entire vehicle for whatever myriad of reasons. Even if this was the case, I still can't understand why someone who isn't able to adequately prepare their vehicle for the driving process should even be driving- period. Age or physical limitations is not an allowable excuse.
So my next guess was that I was seeing "young'ns" out and about on Christmas break or shopping sprees... I figured that the "kids these days" phenomenon was taking hold of my mind and shifting my disposition to that of an old crotchety geezer. My assumption was that young people often times don't have the discipline, responsibility, or foresight to "do the right thing". Again, not that it absolves them of preparation, but it's what I thought to myself as I navigated the drifting snow upon the roads. But alas, this demographic was also not the preponderance of individuals on the road.
What I'm getting to (yes, my blanket stereotypes and generalizations are integral to an effective rant, full of vitriol and ridiculous assertions, haha) is that there was not one certain "type" of person out there "offending" this seemingly commonly sensible (a.k.a common sense) action. I saw all types of people driving around in all sorts of cars of varying conditions- some more egregious than others. I saw laborers (donned in Carhartt gear) in trucks with a spyhole for a windshield, I saw granny's with pristinely cleared cars, I saw teenagers with flickering ice and snow flying from their rooftops, and I saw middle aged businessmen speeding down the pavement with wipers waving rapidly due to the blustering snow from their hoods. I saw it all.
I just don't get it. Why can't people be bothered? I know it's a huge inconvenience and tragedy to head out to the car 10 minutes before you plan to leave and laboriously clear and scrape all the snow and ice from your gas guzzling SUV or tidy and cute sports car. It's a demanding task, I know. I know.
Not only is it just pure ignorance and laziness to not clear your car off, but it's also not safe- and in some places illegal. It takes an extra 5 or 10 minutes out of a day to properly clear your car, and it could save hassle in the long term, not to mention possibly saving an accident. It seems like it'd be common sense to clean off the entire car before driving, but apparently that's too much to ask of some people.
So what do I think the reasons excuses are for why people choose (yes choose) not to clear their cars? I think the foremost excuse would be that some people are simple lazy. They want to get in their car and go, no questions asked. I also think that some people are simply ignorant and lacking common sense- they don't have the proper foresight to adequately prepare themselves. There's also the "I couldn't get it all" excuse- for which comes my retort of, "yes you could, you just chose not to" or, "ever hear of a broom". I do think it's a choice by the driver/ operator to clear or not clear their cars, and if it becomes difficult or troublesome to get certain areas on the vehicle then one can always reach for the ubiquitous and ever present house broom! Albeit a fairly crude method, a broom will make quick work of snow clearing... it works- remember, form follows function!
I just don't think there's any legitimate answer for not having cleared off the car- period. (I'll temper my aggression for "pregnant wife", "heart attack", etc), but honestly what could be so important (maybe the new 50 Cent disc or the sweet suede boots you just got) that preparation gets ignored. Am I wrong?
My personal feelings about winter and snow and clearing the vehicle differ from those of most people. I enjoy winter and all that comes with it, provided that I'm prepared. Clearing off my truck is oftentimes fun and rewarding because I get to experience winter with my own hands- breathing the crisp clean air and feeling the cold on my face and the crunch of snow under my feet. I'll admit it, I enjoy winter, and I enjoy clearing my truck. But most of all, I like being prepared. I can't quite understand why I value preparation more than many other people do.
End rant.
Disclaimer:
Assuredly I came off pompous and condescending in the above rant. My apologies if I purport to be perfect and omniscient. I am not. I only wish to point out that which irks me, that is all.
I also do not use the terms "your" and "you" as direct accusations, but merely as an indirect object of a verb. Or as some may say, pointing the finger away from myself. Haha.
Peace
AM Son
I'm going to vent for the next several lines/ paragraphs.
The first major winter storm of the season hit the Northeast this past weekend. Very good news indeed as I love winter, snow, and cold weather! Apparently this news isn't as well received for many people all over the area...
Why do I state such a random piece of conjecture? Driving around for merely an hour today proved that people are either lazy, ignorant, lazy, unsafe, lazy, ignorant, unsafe... you get the point. What I'm getting at is this:
Why don't people completely clean the snow off of their cars/ trucks? I don't get it- I saw dozens of cars moving along the roadways today as I was driving to/ from work, several of which were completely cleared off and many (too many) that were only partially cleared off.
I saw some cars that had only the windshield and back window cleared, some cars with a foot of snow on the roof, some cars with only the windshield and drivers side window cleared, and yes- even some cars with only a "peep hole" carved out on the windshield. Yes, you read all of those words correctly. Why is it that people can't be bothered to completely clear off their cars?
My immediate reaction was that I was seeing many older people who "can't" get to their entire vehicle for whatever myriad of reasons. Even if this was the case, I still can't understand why someone who isn't able to adequately prepare their vehicle for the driving process should even be driving- period. Age or physical limitations is not an allowable excuse.
So my next guess was that I was seeing "young'ns" out and about on Christmas break or shopping sprees... I figured that the "kids these days" phenomenon was taking hold of my mind and shifting my disposition to that of an old crotchety geezer. My assumption was that young people often times don't have the discipline, responsibility, or foresight to "do the right thing". Again, not that it absolves them of preparation, but it's what I thought to myself as I navigated the drifting snow upon the roads. But alas, this demographic was also not the preponderance of individuals on the road.
What I'm getting to (yes, my blanket stereotypes and generalizations are integral to an effective rant, full of vitriol and ridiculous assertions, haha) is that there was not one certain "type" of person out there "offending" this seemingly commonly sensible (a.k.a common sense) action. I saw all types of people driving around in all sorts of cars of varying conditions- some more egregious than others. I saw laborers (donned in Carhartt gear) in trucks with a spyhole for a windshield, I saw granny's with pristinely cleared cars, I saw teenagers with flickering ice and snow flying from their rooftops, and I saw middle aged businessmen speeding down the pavement with wipers waving rapidly due to the blustering snow from their hoods. I saw it all.
I just don't get it. Why can't people be bothered? I know it's a huge inconvenience and tragedy to head out to the car 10 minutes before you plan to leave and laboriously clear and scrape all the snow and ice from your gas guzzling SUV or tidy and cute sports car. It's a demanding task, I know. I know.
Not only is it just pure ignorance and laziness to not clear your car off, but it's also not safe- and in some places illegal. It takes an extra 5 or 10 minutes out of a day to properly clear your car, and it could save hassle in the long term, not to mention possibly saving an accident. It seems like it'd be common sense to clean off the entire car before driving, but apparently that's too much to ask of some people.
So what do I think the reasons excuses are for why people choose (yes choose) not to clear their cars? I think the foremost excuse would be that some people are simple lazy. They want to get in their car and go, no questions asked. I also think that some people are simply ignorant and lacking common sense- they don't have the proper foresight to adequately prepare themselves. There's also the "I couldn't get it all" excuse- for which comes my retort of, "yes you could, you just chose not to" or, "ever hear of a broom". I do think it's a choice by the driver/ operator to clear or not clear their cars, and if it becomes difficult or troublesome to get certain areas on the vehicle then one can always reach for the ubiquitous and ever present house broom! Albeit a fairly crude method, a broom will make quick work of snow clearing... it works- remember, form follows function!
I just don't think there's any legitimate answer for not having cleared off the car- period. (I'll temper my aggression for "pregnant wife", "heart attack", etc), but honestly what could be so important (maybe the new 50 Cent disc or the sweet suede boots you just got) that preparation gets ignored. Am I wrong?
My personal feelings about winter and snow and clearing the vehicle differ from those of most people. I enjoy winter and all that comes with it, provided that I'm prepared. Clearing off my truck is oftentimes fun and rewarding because I get to experience winter with my own hands- breathing the crisp clean air and feeling the cold on my face and the crunch of snow under my feet. I'll admit it, I enjoy winter, and I enjoy clearing my truck. But most of all, I like being prepared. I can't quite understand why I value preparation more than many other people do.
End rant.
Disclaimer:
Assuredly I came off pompous and condescending in the above rant. My apologies if I purport to be perfect and omniscient. I am not. I only wish to point out that which irks me, that is all.
I also do not use the terms "your" and "you" as direct accusations, but merely as an indirect object of a verb. Or as some may say, pointing the finger away from myself. Haha.
Peace
AM Son
12.06.2008
Book Review: "The Audacity of Hope"
At times I had to remind myself that this was Obama's book and these were Obama's words, and not the thoughts and words from an historian or philosopher. Or maybe Obama should just be added to the list of such people...
I don't think it's difficult- after reading this excellent book- to realize Obama's capacity to be visionary, pragmatic, bi-partisan, bold, and forthright in his assessment and action on a whole host of important issues facing our country (and the world for that matter). I surely don't doubt his love and passion for our great country.
I approached this book in the summer of 2008 with calculated caution- I was an Obama supporter, but wanted to put his thoughts and politics through their paces- so that I may discover not only his true stance on the country's direction, but also probe my own thoughts and premonitions on just how I felt about him as I headed into the voting booth. He seemed to be treading closer and closer twards the "no mans land" of politics- which is to say that as the election loomed closer he would steer his rhetoric and statements back towards the safer and less argumentative middle ground. I felt as though this was hurting his chance of being elected, and more specifically hurting the chances that I would vote for the man. So, I started the book in early August with the guarded intention to cast my ballot in Obama's direction... but with the intention to make his book the final decisive factor in the process.
I took several weeks around the election off from reading the book; on one had I didn't want my visceral reaction from what I was reading to influence my vote- seeing as this book was written a few years prior to current days- and on the other hand I was sort of experiencing Obama/ political burnout. I needed a break, and also wanted the natural and exciting flow of the approaching election to help influence my decision. In short, I wanted to measure what I had read from Obama against what I was hearing, seeing, and feeling from his final campaign push.
I'll relent and guard against retelling my election story...
Talk is cheap, even for someone as stable and well spoken as Obama. That is why I had my skepticism about his words at times. It seems though, that he's provided enough sound insight and examples- both private and public- to make the case more and more that he "gets it". I like his tone, and his ability to seemingly reach across any divide to offer help or to act with empathy.
The fact that Obama is a former Constitutional law professor makes me feel confident that he not only understands the laws of our nation well, but also has the presence of mind to respect those laws and constraints no matter the situation. He doesn't seem like he'll start bending every amendment or tacking on a signing statement to every piece of legislation like the Bush administration has made so commonplace. His discussion of the Constitution made me feel safe and secure.
"There are stories you miss, I thought to myself, when you fly on a private jet." This quote is the last line from Chapter 5- and it perfectly represents that Obama understands the ease with which politicians can become disconnected from their constituents. But it also seemingly underscores his ability to realize that phenomenon and make the necessary adjustments to alleviate the circumstances. (read: not fly on a private jet 100% of the time.)
Overall, I'll say this:
Obama's world view, his appreciation for history, his understanding of right and wrong, and his seeming willingness to be questioned and always be pragmatic... are inspiring. He proved those qualities in this book. Weather it be his thoughts on local politics, foreign issues with North Korea and Iran, race issues all across the country, family ties and structure, our Constitution, or the role that faith does and should play in our politics, he's proven to me that he has the capacity to lead in a hopeful and straightforward manner. I'm a believer now...
This was a good book- once which I highly recommend. The whole way through I felt like I was having a warm and personal conversation with Obama... perhaps a "fireside chat"!
Go read the book!
Peace
AM Son
11.23.2008
A Few Links
Here's a few good reads I've come across lately. Although they are of opposite ends of the spectrum, I think they're both very well written and do a great job at conveying a soild idea.
Confessions of a 52 Year Old Gamer
- here's an extremely compelling account of a 52 year old guy's passion for video games. I feel very similarly, and presume that when I'm 52 I will have much of the same view.
Serious People
- a great argument for why Obama's starting out on the right foot in his cabinet and advisor selections. Too many people are quickly and ignorantly harping on him for some of the selections. Well, this article explains the objective reasons for some of Obama's picks.
I'll be back with more later.
Peace
AM Son
Confessions of a 52 Year Old Gamer
- here's an extremely compelling account of a 52 year old guy's passion for video games. I feel very similarly, and presume that when I'm 52 I will have much of the same view.
Serious People
- a great argument for why Obama's starting out on the right foot in his cabinet and advisor selections. Too many people are quickly and ignorantly harping on him for some of the selections. Well, this article explains the objective reasons for some of Obama's picks.
I'll be back with more later.
Peace
AM Son
11.05.2008
President-Elect
Congratulations to Barack Obama, who yesterday was elected to be the 44th President of the United States of America!
Lets put aside politics and partisanship for a moment... and regardless of political party or doctrine, there's got to be a sense of immense satisfaction in every American citizen today. Without hesitation, I can say it's an historic day in America. We should all stand tall and proud, because history will forever show that it was on November 4th, 2008 an African American was elected to the highest office of our great nation... and to be frank, this man will lift our nation from that of world power to that of preeminence!
Congratulations Sir, your campaign and this event have moved me to the purest of joy and pride!
Thank you, and best of luck Mr. Obama.
Peace
AM Son
11.04.2008
10.10.2008
What if...?
How would things be different today?
Peace
AM Son
9.29.2008
As Autumn nears... oh wait, it's here!
I always think to myself and say to others, "when fall gets here I'll have more time to... (to write, to visit, to listen to music, to relax, to travel, to read, to watch the entire Presidential debate, etc)". But alas, fall arrived nearly two weeks ago and I've still not updated the blog, caught up on reading, or taken a nap... so what gives?
Well, to put it simply, I'm still kind of busy haha! Soon though, I do hope to have more to share and write. This time of year sparks many curiosities, emotions, and thoughts which will surely find their way here at some point- so keep checking back!
Hope all is well,
Peace
AM Son
Well, to put it simply, I'm still kind of busy haha! Soon though, I do hope to have more to share and write. This time of year sparks many curiosities, emotions, and thoughts which will surely find their way here at some point- so keep checking back!
Hope all is well,
Peace
AM Son
8.20.2008
RIP Leroi Moore
Dave Matthews Band saxophonist Leroi Moore passed away unexpectedly yesterday due to complications from an accident he suffered in June. As a fan of the band, he will be immensely missed by myself and many millions more.
Here's the official site report:
Peace
AM Son
Here's the official site report:
LEROI MOORE 1961-2008
08/19/2008
We are deeply saddened that LeRoi Moore, saxophonist and founding member of Dave Matthews Band, died unexpectedly Tuesday afternoon, August 19, 2008, at Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center in Los Angeles from sudden complications stemming from his June ATV accident on his farm near Charlottesville, Virginia. LeRoi had recently returned to his Los Angeles home to begin an intensive physical rehabilitation program.
Peace
AM Son
8.05.2008
Tied to a leg of Sisyphus
The struggle mounts… this election thing has got me scared of my own urges, afraid of the facts I’ve yet to confront. My political peripheral vision is truncated by certain facts I wish not to heed; and blurred by ideals and ideologies I’ve grown scared to harbor.
This race has tired my soul already, and I don’t know if I’ve got the strength to even become aware of the “correct” approach and decisions…
Viva la Revolucion!
Peace
AM Son
This race has tired my soul already, and I don’t know if I’ve got the strength to even become aware of the “correct” approach and decisions…
Viva la Revolucion!
Peace
AM Son
7.27.2008
Admired Leader
Too many words can spoil the core of true sentiment, and too few words can fail to convey the gravity of a situation. Having stated that, I'll try to introduce this topic and let the weight and emotion of it do the heavy lifting.
Recently I was introduced (figuratively) to Randy Pausch- an inspirational professor from Carnegie Mellon University. Sadly, Randy died of pancreatic cancer a few days ago, but his story will live on in lore forever. There are people in this world who truly move a soul, and Mr. Pausch is one of those people. Even in the brief experience I've had with his message, I can say definitively that it's changed my life.
He gave a "Last Lecture" at Carnegie Mellon last autumn, and immediately became famous for the life message he impressed upon his audience. Soon after the lecture, his story became an internet phenomenon; inspiring millions of people with his courage, integrity, humor, and grace.
I challenge anyone to view this "Lecture" and not be moved to tears multiple times during its duration. Due to my personal history, I may be a fair bit more impressionable in situations like this, but I still think it's a story that will move anyone. From beginning to (especially) end it is an immensely powerful experience.
It's a fairly long video (1hour 16minutes), but please watch the entire thing- I guarantee you'll be glad you did.
There's also a book by the same name.
Try this for comfort and relief.
Peace & Good Health
AM Son
Recently I was introduced (figuratively) to Randy Pausch- an inspirational professor from Carnegie Mellon University. Sadly, Randy died of pancreatic cancer a few days ago, but his story will live on in lore forever. There are people in this world who truly move a soul, and Mr. Pausch is one of those people. Even in the brief experience I've had with his message, I can say definitively that it's changed my life.
He gave a "Last Lecture" at Carnegie Mellon last autumn, and immediately became famous for the life message he impressed upon his audience. Soon after the lecture, his story became an internet phenomenon; inspiring millions of people with his courage, integrity, humor, and grace.
I challenge anyone to view this "Lecture" and not be moved to tears multiple times during its duration. Due to my personal history, I may be a fair bit more impressionable in situations like this, but I still think it's a story that will move anyone. From beginning to (especially) end it is an immensely powerful experience.
It's a fairly long video (1hour 16minutes), but please watch the entire thing- I guarantee you'll be glad you did.
Lead your life the right way, and Karma will take over- the dreams will come to you
--Randy Pausch
There's also a book by the same name.
Try this for comfort and relief.
Peace & Good Health
AM Son
Labels:
Carnegie Mellon,
Last Lecture,
Pancreatic Cancer,
Randy Pausch
7.21.2008
TV & off the cable grid!
Yes, you read that right- Emily and I have taken the plunge- we canceled our crappy Charter cable service and purchased an AppleTV. We're no longer beholden to the draconian limits and restrictions of a cable company- we're the arbiters of our fate; we now have complete dominion over what we watch!! Well, OK, maybe that's getting a little carried away... but it is nice to now pay à la carte for what we watch rather than paying a blanket fee for the many, many shows and channels we didn't watch. Besides the fact that we're not huge television watchers anyhow, all that we really miss is live sporting events (ie. Pats, Sox, Celts)- especially since we watched almost all of our shows time shifted.
So, welcome TV and goodbye Charter.
So far it's been damn nice- we have more options of what to watch, when to watch, and how to watch. Aside from This Old House and Sports, we're not missing any of our major interests. And besides, this frees up our night times for more reading, video games, hanging out, chatting, etc... which is always a good thing. We definitely watch far less TV now than before, and when we do watch, we're totally committed and not just using the TV as a third companion in the room. And surprisingly, in a short period of time we will also save money. No static monthly amount to be charged anymore- if we watch zero programs then we pay zero dollars for that month's service. I remember many months in the past where each of us were busy enough where we didn't watch much (or any) TV and yet still had to fork over a ridiculous amount of cash just for the "chance" to watch.
In addition to TV programming, we also have the opportunity to rent/ buy movies. While we're also not huge movie people, it's nice to have the opportunity should we want to settle down with a good movie. And the prices are no worse then a video rental from the local conglomerate of a video store.
May favorite aspect of the TV is the ability to download and watch/ listen/ to audio and video podcasts directly through the device. There's access to hundreds of FREE (yes, FREE) podcasts- which we enjoy just as we would a television program. I love podcasts- as you all know- so it's no stretch to imagine my excitement for this feature. While most podcast video quality is less than great, it sometimes is superior to that of mainstream broadcasters or cable providers. Either way, it's the content that matters, and my tastes tend to align more with the podcast community than those of pop programming anyhow!! Bring on the p-casts!
The first show to hook us thus far has been The Wire- an HBO orignal series that began in 2001. We're totally into this show, and owe the opportunity to the AppleTV- because with cable the cost to order premium channels was uneconomical and wasteful. We now pay for each show we watch, which makes us think to ourselves, "do we really want to watch this now- or even at all?". It adds an element of existentialism to our viewing habits- which is absolutely a positive sign!
And the device is smaller than an ordinary cable box- so we're saving space to boot!!
Check it:
[caption id="attachment_193" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="AppleTV unboxing"][/caption]
[caption id="attachment_194" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="ATV's new home!"][/caption]
Just over a week off of Charter- and loving it!!
Now off to get some reading in!
Peace
AM Son
**written while listening to the mountain goats/ jason collett/ and john mellencamp**
7.13.2008
Zakaria engages Obama
I'm semi-back from my month long hiatus. Still trying to rest and recuperate from a few long weeks of prep at work, I'll be back on a more regular basis hopefully soon...
-----------
Just this afternoon, one of my favorite foreign policy experts- Fareed Zakaria- interviewed Barack Obama on his weekly political round-table show (Fareed Zakaria- GPS).
Here's a quick excerpt from the interview- of which in my opinion kind of paints the overall picture of why Obama is exactly what this country needs starting in January of 2009.
I'm a tad too tired to (nice alliteration eh!?) analyze the entirety of the excerpt, but I will say that answers with this much foresight, bipartisan sensitivity, intelligence, and "greater good" mentality have got to be remembered and considered when pulling that lever in November.
Peace and Barack the Vote!
AM Son
-----------
Just this afternoon, one of my favorite foreign policy experts- Fareed Zakaria- interviewed Barack Obama on his weekly political round-table show (Fareed Zakaria- GPS).
Here's a quick excerpt from the interview- of which in my opinion kind of paints the overall picture of why Obama is exactly what this country needs starting in January of 2009.
ZAKARIA: You are going to Europe and the Middle East. You know that in places like France you have 85 percent approval ratings.
Isn't that going to make some Americans very suspicious? If all of Europe likes you, if France likes you, there must be something wrong.
OBAMA: Well, I tell you what. You know, it's interesting. As I travel around the country, here in the United States, I think people understand that there has been a price to the diminished regard with which the world holds the United States over the last several years.
It's something that bothers people. It's something that's brought up.
You know, when I'm doing a town hall meeting in some rural community, invariably, somebody will raise their hand and they'll say, "When are we going to restore the respect that the world had for America?"
And, you know, the American people's instincts are good. It's not just a matter of wanting to be liked. It's the fact that, as a consequence of that diminished standing, we have less leverage on a whole host of critical issues that have to be dealt with.
So, I think the American people are ready for a president who is not alienating the world. And if that president is liked a little bit, well, that's just a bonus.
Now, I don't know how long that will last. We'll see if my approval ratings hold up after I'm president.
ZAKARIA: You're bound to disappoint people. I mean, with approval ratings that high, it's bound to be a letdown. Don't you think?
OBAMA: You know, my job is to make sure that, here in the United States, the American people feel confident that I'm going to be advocating for their interests, that I'm going to keep them safe.
The way to do that though, I believe, is to make sure that we're paying attention to the rest of the world, their hopes, their aspirations, as well, and that we're leading with our values and ideals, and not just with our military.
I'm a tad too tired to (nice alliteration eh!?) analyze the entirety of the excerpt, but I will say that answers with this much foresight, bipartisan sensitivity, intelligence, and "greater good" mentality have got to be remembered and considered when pulling that lever in November.
Peace and Barack the Vote!
AM Son
6.01.2008
Windy Willie Brown - Annual Lecture on Political Trends
Windy Willie Brown gives a great speech to The Commonwealth Club of California in San Francisco, CA,
May 7th, 2008.
Disclaimer: I'm not implying Mr. Brown is full of himself or talks too much by my "windy" description, I'm simply making light of the trees blowing in the backdrop (if you look through the backdrop you can see the trees blowing).
Former Mayor of San Francisco Willie Brown is seen here giving a great speech- in part about his new book, and also dealing with the current political landscape in our country. I've always enjoyed listening to Mr. Brown speak, and this talk is no different. I like his humor, his apparent candor, and I love the way he says "Oh-BA-MA"!!
Enjoy, and be forewarned that this is about an hour long speech.
[vodpod id=ExternalVideo.582045&w=425&h=350&fv=sViewClip%3D3449%26sWebHost%3Dfora.tv]
Take care,
AM Son
May 7th, 2008.
Disclaimer: I'm not implying Mr. Brown is full of himself or talks too much by my "windy" description, I'm simply making light of the trees blowing in the backdrop (if you look through the backdrop you can see the trees blowing).
Former Mayor of San Francisco Willie Brown is seen here giving a great speech- in part about his new book, and also dealing with the current political landscape in our country. I've always enjoyed listening to Mr. Brown speak, and this talk is no different. I like his humor, his apparent candor, and I love the way he says "Oh-BA-MA"!!
Enjoy, and be forewarned that this is about an hour long speech.
[vodpod id=ExternalVideo.582045&w=425&h=350&fv=sViewClip%3D3449%26sWebHost%3Dfora.tv]
more about "FORA.tv - Willie Brown - Annual Lectu...", posted with vodpod
Take care,
AM Son
Labels:
Commonwealth Club,
Democratic Primary,
Willie Brown
5.28.2008
6 Word Story Solemnly Modernized
Ernest Hemingway once penned a six-word story, which reads as follows:
"For sale: baby shoes, never worn."
He later credited this as his life's best work. Many regard Hemingway's "Baby Shoes" as the best of its kind. I'd have to agree with that sentiment, even though I've limited experience with the art form.
What I want to explore today is how the meaning of that simple six word story has changed over time. The apparent intention of Mr. Hemingway was to depict a sad tale of infant mortality. The obvious intent of a six word story is to be concise, but the mere simplicity in his word choices invoke not only the child's brief life and the implied grief of the family, but also the utter sadness and power of the tragedy. Unless anyone finds another way to interpret the story, there's really not much else to ponder.
I've been ruminating on this micro-story for some time now, and I keep returning to and pondering the incredible irony and revelation in the work when examined through a modern day lens. At the time of Hemingway's writing of this story, there was pretty much only one approach to its interpretation. Fast forward to today however, and there seems to be a new way to read his thoughts and intentions.
To explain this train of thought, I need to offer some historical perspective. In "those days", a family would most likely not purchase or acquire baby shoes (or anything for that matter) without absolute intention in utilizing that item. Weather it be hand me downs, new purchases, or other means; goods were obtained for specific and obvious utility, duration, and function. So the tragedy in this story comes from the fact that these baby shoes were fully intended for use- and when the situation arose that they were not needed and subsequently sold- the grief and sadness becomes apparent. Simple, heartbreaking, true.
When I think of this same story in the context of modern times, I come to very different conclusions. I am aware that todays world is very different. We now live in a society that sometimes urges us to consume for the sake of consuming. We buy much more than we need, live above our means, and often times resort to storage unit space because of this trend. We buy to keep up with the Jones', we spend to "feel better", we purchase to "better our lives", and sometimes we buy/ spend/ purchase because we "need". What a concept huh!?
So, think of Hemingway's masterpiece in this aforementioned context. Really- think about it. After having done so, I don't read his story with the same heartache and sadness. I don't read the story with the same clarity and vividness. I now read the story with the inflection of a question rather then the assertiveness of a strong statement. Why you ask?
It comes down to a basic premise- one which plays off my original evaluation of Hemingway's story. As read currently, I have options as to what the story may mean. Could the baby shoes be the wrong size; only to be thrown into a closet and never utilized? Could the parents have bought two different pairs of shoes- one name brand and one generic brand; and then decided to only use one pair, thus relegating the other to the "sale bin"? Could someone else have gotten the shoes for the baby/ family in a gifting manner, and again not be of any use at the present time?
Each of these scenarios could be true, as could several others. Either way, there doesn't seem to be the same relevance, immediacy, and genuine tug of the heart strings that the original had. I don't mean to infer that the story can't stand the test of time (or maybe I am?) I'm more ruminating on the fact that taken into current contexts, it just doesn't pack the punch it once did. It's almost as if it's been sullied by our "progress", where it now requires thought and context rather then a purely visceral response by the reader.
I don't quite know how to react to my thoughts on this one? Has the arc of time made us too complicated , to cumbersome in our materialism and consumerism, overly concerned with outlying status quo's and competition. Are we incapable of describing our worlds in six words anymore? I sure hope not, and I'm fairly certain that Mr. Hemingway would be astonished that someone could read his masterpiece and not come away with a clear and resolute feeling.
*********************
One of the reasons I began thinking about this topic is due to a recent chord that was struck in my mind. An NPR radio show (podcast) that I love called "On The Media" recently held their "12 Word Novel Contest", and it jogged this whole train of thought. While not the 6 word type that Hemingway nailed down, it's still a rewarding, enjoyable, and enlightening segment. It's worth checking out, as there is definitely hope for the simple and short form of writing. It's definitely not lost on today's world!
Have fun chewing on all this fat I put on your plate!
Peace
AM Son
"For sale: baby shoes, never worn."
He later credited this as his life's best work. Many regard Hemingway's "Baby Shoes" as the best of its kind. I'd have to agree with that sentiment, even though I've limited experience with the art form.
What I want to explore today is how the meaning of that simple six word story has changed over time. The apparent intention of Mr. Hemingway was to depict a sad tale of infant mortality. The obvious intent of a six word story is to be concise, but the mere simplicity in his word choices invoke not only the child's brief life and the implied grief of the family, but also the utter sadness and power of the tragedy. Unless anyone finds another way to interpret the story, there's really not much else to ponder.
I've been ruminating on this micro-story for some time now, and I keep returning to and pondering the incredible irony and revelation in the work when examined through a modern day lens. At the time of Hemingway's writing of this story, there was pretty much only one approach to its interpretation. Fast forward to today however, and there seems to be a new way to read his thoughts and intentions.
To explain this train of thought, I need to offer some historical perspective. In "those days", a family would most likely not purchase or acquire baby shoes (or anything for that matter) without absolute intention in utilizing that item. Weather it be hand me downs, new purchases, or other means; goods were obtained for specific and obvious utility, duration, and function. So the tragedy in this story comes from the fact that these baby shoes were fully intended for use- and when the situation arose that they were not needed and subsequently sold- the grief and sadness becomes apparent. Simple, heartbreaking, true.
When I think of this same story in the context of modern times, I come to very different conclusions. I am aware that todays world is very different. We now live in a society that sometimes urges us to consume for the sake of consuming. We buy much more than we need, live above our means, and often times resort to storage unit space because of this trend. We buy to keep up with the Jones', we spend to "feel better", we purchase to "better our lives", and sometimes we buy/ spend/ purchase because we "need". What a concept huh!?
So, think of Hemingway's masterpiece in this aforementioned context. Really- think about it. After having done so, I don't read his story with the same heartache and sadness. I don't read the story with the same clarity and vividness. I now read the story with the inflection of a question rather then the assertiveness of a strong statement. Why you ask?
It comes down to a basic premise- one which plays off my original evaluation of Hemingway's story. As read currently, I have options as to what the story may mean. Could the baby shoes be the wrong size; only to be thrown into a closet and never utilized? Could the parents have bought two different pairs of shoes- one name brand and one generic brand; and then decided to only use one pair, thus relegating the other to the "sale bin"? Could someone else have gotten the shoes for the baby/ family in a gifting manner, and again not be of any use at the present time?
Each of these scenarios could be true, as could several others. Either way, there doesn't seem to be the same relevance, immediacy, and genuine tug of the heart strings that the original had. I don't mean to infer that the story can't stand the test of time (or maybe I am?) I'm more ruminating on the fact that taken into current contexts, it just doesn't pack the punch it once did. It's almost as if it's been sullied by our "progress", where it now requires thought and context rather then a purely visceral response by the reader.
I don't quite know how to react to my thoughts on this one? Has the arc of time made us too complicated , to cumbersome in our materialism and consumerism, overly concerned with outlying status quo's and competition. Are we incapable of describing our worlds in six words anymore? I sure hope not, and I'm fairly certain that Mr. Hemingway would be astonished that someone could read his masterpiece and not come away with a clear and resolute feeling.
*********************
One of the reasons I began thinking about this topic is due to a recent chord that was struck in my mind. An NPR radio show (podcast) that I love called "On The Media" recently held their "12 Word Novel Contest", and it jogged this whole train of thought. While not the 6 word type that Hemingway nailed down, it's still a rewarding, enjoyable, and enlightening segment. It's worth checking out, as there is definitely hope for the simple and short form of writing. It's definitely not lost on today's world!
Have fun chewing on all this fat I put on your plate!
Peace
AM Son
Labels:
6 word story,
Ernest Hemingway,
Hemingway,
On The Media
5.17.2008
"Spygate", will you please die now!?
I hate to play a role in dragging out this scenario even longer; in sensationalizing a story that ought to be put to rest, but I just can't resist posting this video from CBS News.
First and foremost, I laud Belichick for his apparent candor and forthrightness during the interview. Many people will always feel that he's a sneak, a cheat, and arrogant; and that any truth he tries to spin at this point is just his way of putting his finger in the hole in the dam. I feel otherwise, he appears to have clear and concise answers and reasons for the "situation", and doesn't resort to emotional finger pointing and dodging of blame and reason. I like his demeanor and tone, and wish that an interview like this could be the sort of thing that puts an end to this melodrama.
I do wish that CBS News would have played the whole interview on their broadcast- instead of relying on viewers to surf to their website for the entirety of the conversation. The snippets from the TV broadcast are sensationalistic and shallow, and beget more questions than they answer.
Here's the entire interview. In my opinion, this "spygate" crap should be put to rest, and all the "cheating" talk should die along with it.
[vodpod id=ExternalVideo.554603&w=425&h=350&fv=link%3Dhttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbsnews.com%2Fsections%2Fi_video%2Fmain500251.shtml%3Fid%3D4104334n%26releaseURL%3Dhttp%3A%2F%2Frelease.theplatform.com%2Fcontent.select%3Fpid%3DZLrGTX0nbJ7vKjyWreX1e5VhCqPqyTLx%26partner%3Dnewsembed%26autoPlayVid%3Dfalse%26prevImg%3Dhttp%3A%2F%2Fthumbnails.cbsig.net%2FCBS_Production_News%2F710%2F476%2Fketeyian_full0516_480x360.jpg] from www.cbsnews.com posted with vodpod
First and foremost, I laud Belichick for his apparent candor and forthrightness during the interview. Many people will always feel that he's a sneak, a cheat, and arrogant; and that any truth he tries to spin at this point is just his way of putting his finger in the hole in the dam. I feel otherwise, he appears to have clear and concise answers and reasons for the "situation", and doesn't resort to emotional finger pointing and dodging of blame and reason. I like his demeanor and tone, and wish that an interview like this could be the sort of thing that puts an end to this melodrama.
I do wish that CBS News would have played the whole interview on their broadcast- instead of relying on viewers to surf to their website for the entirety of the conversation. The snippets from the TV broadcast are sensationalistic and shallow, and beget more questions than they answer.
Here's the entire interview. In my opinion, this "spygate" crap should be put to rest, and all the "cheating" talk should die along with it.
[vodpod id=ExternalVideo.554603&w=425&h=350&fv=link%3Dhttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbsnews.com%2Fsections%2Fi_video%2Fmain500251.shtml%3Fid%3D4104334n%26releaseURL%3Dhttp%3A%2F%2Frelease.theplatform.com%2Fcontent.select%3Fpid%3DZLrGTX0nbJ7vKjyWreX1e5VhCqPqyTLx%26partner%3Dnewsembed%26autoPlayVid%3Dfalse%26prevImg%3Dhttp%3A%2F%2Fthumbnails.cbsig.net%2FCBS_Production_News%2F710%2F476%2Fketeyian_full0516_480x360.jpg] from www.cbsnews.com posted with vodpod
5.11.2008
D-U-M-B Dumb, Dumb, Dumb!
When one takes to accusing another individual or even an entire sect of people of being "dumb", they are seemingly opening up themselves to a litany of criticisms and attacks. In essence, they had better be sure they aren't residing in a glass house. This is not to say that I'm accusing anyone of the pot calling the kettle black, but rather that it becomes relevant and important for one to understand what parameters of "knowledge" and "experience" and "information" we've set up in a scenario in which one individual or group calls another individual or group "dumb".
This scenario plays itself out in a new book entitled "The Dumbest Generation: How the Digital Age Stupefies Young Americans and Jeopardizes Our Future (Or, Don't Trust Anyone Under 30)", written by Mark Baurlein. Out of full disclosure, I've yet to read this book, so I've no real clue as to what is discussed, laid out, assumed, or discovered within its text. I am, however, intrigued by its premise and scope and plan to read it this summer. I just hope that it's not a blanketed condemnation of an entire generation. I also hope that the blame isn't placed solely on one sect- be it the generation in question, their parents, the media, religion, poverty/ economics, or any other possible influence or excuse.
I thought this book was an interesting tie-in to my previously aforementioned "GQ" article. As I mentioned, I plan to read the book, so look forward to a possible review and discussion here at the blog.
Edit: Here's a fascinating take on this book- a worthy read indeed! I like the tone of the article, and the way the writer stays relatively objective while still defending both sides passionately.
This scenario plays itself out in a new book entitled "The Dumbest Generation: How the Digital Age Stupefies Young Americans and Jeopardizes Our Future (Or, Don't Trust Anyone Under 30)", written by Mark Baurlein. Out of full disclosure, I've yet to read this book, so I've no real clue as to what is discussed, laid out, assumed, or discovered within its text. I am, however, intrigued by its premise and scope and plan to read it this summer. I just hope that it's not a blanketed condemnation of an entire generation. I also hope that the blame isn't placed solely on one sect- be it the generation in question, their parents, the media, religion, poverty/ economics, or any other possible influence or excuse.
I thought this book was an interesting tie-in to my previously aforementioned "GQ" article. As I mentioned, I plan to read the book, so look forward to a possible review and discussion here at the blog.
Edit: Here's a fascinating take on this book- a worthy read indeed! I like the tone of the article, and the way the writer stays relatively objective while still defending both sides passionately.
GQ (but not like you think)
Thomas Friedman is one of today's foremost experts on world economics and globalization. As a journalist of foreign affairs, he's written a few books- including an extremely lengthy and fascinating book entitled "The World Is Flat", which encompasses much of what has transpired in the global economic and socioeconomic spheres over the past forty or so years. In short, this dude knows what he's talking about when it comes to the interrelations of global economics and global politics. I liked "The World Is Flat", and also find some of his NY Times articles and columns interesting as well.
An October 2007 article titled, "Generation Q"- written by Friedman- has had my interests piqued for months now. Check it out and decide for yourself weather or not you're a member of Generation Q., and if so what it means to you. I'm fairly guilty of some of his accusations- both the good and the bad. I'm aware of my part time ambivalence, and looking for a way to give it some regularly scheduled vacations.
You?
Peace
AM Son
An October 2007 article titled, "Generation Q"- written by Friedman- has had my interests piqued for months now. Check it out and decide for yourself weather or not you're a member of Generation Q., and if so what it means to you. I'm fairly guilty of some of his accusations- both the good and the bad. I'm aware of my part time ambivalence, and looking for a way to give it some regularly scheduled vacations.
You?
Peace
AM Son
Labels:
Friedman,
Generation Q,
GQ,
The World Is Flat,
Thomas Friedman,
Tom Friedman
4.22.2008
Firefighters Make a Great TV Commercial!
I don't watch too much television, and most of what I watch is either sports or DVR'd shows that Em and I watch regularly. Because of that I rarely see many "mainstream" commercials, and the ones I do see I usually end up fast forwarding through (due to our timeshifted TV viewing habits).
But this commercial is one I've seen many times already, and it's a good one. I don't think I'll get sick of it...
check it out:
What a take/ parody/ satire on bureaucracy and red tape!! Why can't things just be this simple!?
Enjoy and take care,
Peace
AM Son
But this commercial is one I've seen many times already, and it's a good one. I don't think I'll get sick of it...
check it out:
What a take/ parody/ satire on bureaucracy and red tape!! Why can't things just be this simple!?
Enjoy and take care,
Peace
AM Son
Labels:
clean water,
firefighters,
firefighters ran the world,
nextel,
roads
4.19.2008
Obama and Race
A little late to the game here, but consequential nonetheless.
Obama never disappoints when he speaks. This guy's got a gift for oration and holding a crowds attention. He rarely makes a bad or mediocre speech, and here's an example of one of his finest. I won't go into any detail or review here, just enjoy Obama at his best.
November can't get here soon enough!!
Peace
AM Son
Obama never disappoints when he speaks. This guy's got a gift for oration and holding a crowds attention. He rarely makes a bad or mediocre speech, and here's an example of one of his finest. I won't go into any detail or review here, just enjoy Obama at his best.
November can't get here soon enough!!
Peace
AM Son
Labels:
More Perfect Union,
Obama,
Race,
Rev Wright,
speech
3.20.2008
Goin' Geek on ya here!
Haven't posted in a while. Been thinking of writing a little something. Just haven't done it. That is until now!
Been playing a ton of video games lately. Yes, I'm a 29 year old who loves video games. Heck, I grew up on these things, and they've advanced so much over the years that they're basically akin to theatrical releases nowadays. The depth and breadth of current generation videogames are mind-blowing. Some of today's games have stories that can rival or even surpass blockbuster movies, and budgets to go along with them. Sport simulation games can make the gamer feel like they're actually managing a big league game, or feeling the pressure in a late game situation. Graphics have approached reality, while sounds and soundtracks are sometimes more intimate and deep than the games themselves. Games sure have come a long way since the days of "Pong" and "Defender".
All in all, games aren't simple time sinks like they were back in the early days (circa 1980's). They've grown and matured, and the gamers who nurtured them in their infancy have also grown and matured. Simply put, we're a match made in heaven- and anyone who knows me well knows I'm a gamer and I spend much of my free time engaged in playing, discovering, reading about, and critiquing games.
So what have I been playing lately? I recently bought a Playstation 3 to go with my Xbox 360. So now that I have both "next-gen" systems, I can focus my attention on playing the best games possible rather then staying blindly loyal to one particular system.
The PS3 is a very powerful and capable system, but does lag behind the 360 in many areas- namely online functionality and friends integration. The Blu-ray player within the PS3 is a great side benefit, and I'm sure it'll be nice to have that Hi-Def option going forward.
It's springtime, and that means I'm getting into my baseball gaming mode. This year, it's MLB '08: The Show on the PS3. Great game, I just can't get enough of it.
I'm also knee deep in a few first person shooters (FPS). As of now Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare and Frontlines: Fuel of War are my main interests, but I'm sure a new game will appear on my radar (no pun intended) soon.
Looking forward, I think Grand Theft Auto 4 will take up much of my time in the coming months. What else I'll be playing in the near future is anyone's guess at the moment. Summer is generally considered a slow time of year for game releases.
So, there ya have it. For the last few weeks before the golf course takes much of my free time, I've been enjoying myself in the comfort of my living room (coffee close by) playing some great games!
Take it easy, Peace!
AM Son
Been playing a ton of video games lately. Yes, I'm a 29 year old who loves video games. Heck, I grew up on these things, and they've advanced so much over the years that they're basically akin to theatrical releases nowadays. The depth and breadth of current generation videogames are mind-blowing. Some of today's games have stories that can rival or even surpass blockbuster movies, and budgets to go along with them. Sport simulation games can make the gamer feel like they're actually managing a big league game, or feeling the pressure in a late game situation. Graphics have approached reality, while sounds and soundtracks are sometimes more intimate and deep than the games themselves. Games sure have come a long way since the days of "Pong" and "Defender".
All in all, games aren't simple time sinks like they were back in the early days (circa 1980's). They've grown and matured, and the gamers who nurtured them in their infancy have also grown and matured. Simply put, we're a match made in heaven- and anyone who knows me well knows I'm a gamer and I spend much of my free time engaged in playing, discovering, reading about, and critiquing games.
So what have I been playing lately? I recently bought a Playstation 3 to go with my Xbox 360. So now that I have both "next-gen" systems, I can focus my attention on playing the best games possible rather then staying blindly loyal to one particular system.
The PS3 is a very powerful and capable system, but does lag behind the 360 in many areas- namely online functionality and friends integration. The Blu-ray player within the PS3 is a great side benefit, and I'm sure it'll be nice to have that Hi-Def option going forward.
It's springtime, and that means I'm getting into my baseball gaming mode. This year, it's MLB '08: The Show on the PS3. Great game, I just can't get enough of it.
I'm also knee deep in a few first person shooters (FPS). As of now Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare and Frontlines: Fuel of War are my main interests, but I'm sure a new game will appear on my radar (no pun intended) soon.
Looking forward, I think Grand Theft Auto 4 will take up much of my time in the coming months. What else I'll be playing in the near future is anyone's guess at the moment. Summer is generally considered a slow time of year for game releases.
So, there ya have it. For the last few weeks before the golf course takes much of my free time, I've been enjoying myself in the comfort of my living room (coffee close by) playing some great games!
Take it easy, Peace!
AM Son
Labels:
cod4,
frontlines,
games,
gaming,
gta4,
mlb the show,
ps3,
videogames,
xbox 360
2.19.2008
Another Castro Revolution?
So, unless a large rock served as your home on the morning of February 19, 2008; you surely know that Fidel Castro resigned his position as President of Cuba.
I'm sure the pundits, philosopher kings, and bloggers of the world are having a field day with this news, especially seeing as Castro is one of the U.S's main adversaries in their "war on anything undemocratic, American, or un-imperial".
I don't share the putative view that paints Castro as the most severely evil man on the face of the earth- although I do concede that he's some sort of megalomaniacal nationalist. He's done some things worthy of the discontent and isolationist attitude from the U.S and other countries... but remember, we're currently under the reign and shade of a Cheney Bush (Hegemenous alatus). Who are we to criticize?
Now what will come of Fidel's resignation? Who knows- for his brother Raul has been rumored to have many of the same beliefs and misgivings that Fidel harbors. I hope that, for all Cubans sake- things begin to change for the better. I'm not sure if the U.S trade embargo against Cuba will be eased or lifted, but for the sake of all Cubans I do hope that they are at the dawn of a better Cuba.
We shall see...
Peace
AM Son
I'm sure the pundits, philosopher kings, and bloggers of the world are having a field day with this news, especially seeing as Castro is one of the U.S's main adversaries in their "war on anything undemocratic, American, or un-imperial".
I don't share the putative view that paints Castro as the most severely evil man on the face of the earth- although I do concede that he's some sort of megalomaniacal nationalist. He's done some things worthy of the discontent and isolationist attitude from the U.S and other countries... but remember, we're currently under the reign and shade of a Cheney Bush (Hegemenous alatus). Who are we to criticize?
Now what will come of Fidel's resignation? Who knows- for his brother Raul has been rumored to have many of the same beliefs and misgivings that Fidel harbors. I hope that, for all Cubans sake- things begin to change for the better. I'm not sure if the U.S trade embargo against Cuba will be eased or lifted, but for the sake of all Cubans I do hope that they are at the dawn of a better Cuba.
We shall see...
Peace
AM Son
1.29.2008
Dickerson, You Comic!!
Bush's last (yippee!) "State of the Union" address last night was just another pothole in the long winding one way path called Bush Street- a path we've been traveling down for 7 years now. He spoke with the same disgusting rhetoric and jingoistic flippancy that he's been lecturing us with for far too long. He seemed to- as usual- have a penchant for entertaining and speaking mostly to his "base", while saving snarky and blunt criticisms for the "other" side of the room. I'm going to save energy and not pick apart the entire speech (I think most of you know how I feel).
But, what I'd like to do is link you to an article that summarizes my feelings quite nicely. A Slate journalist named John Dickerson whom I read frequently has written a compelling, witty, and evocative article about Bush's little ditty from last night. I've sectioned out my favorite part of the article- as I think it offers a perfect glimpse into the mindset of this irreverent and irresponsible man we call our President.
For Democratic lawmakers in the audience, perhaps the most irksome item was the president's tough new approach to congressional earmarks, those little projects lawmakers insert not into the text of bills presented to the president but in reports that accompany them. He says he will veto spending bills this year unless Congress cuts in half the amount of money earmarked for lawmakers' pet projects, and he will order agencies to ignore future earmarks unless they are explicitly listed in the text of legislation.
I am all for this. Legislators should have to be honest about what they're trying to get us to pay for. Bush is playing a political angle here. He's picking an election-year fight with Democrats who control Congress to make them look like big spenders, and he's also trying to rehabilitate his reputation among Republicans as a spendthrift. But there is chutzpah in George Bush, who perfected the use of the signing statement to circumvent Congress when it worked its will, targeting earmarks because they circumvent the regular congressional process. "If these items are truly worth funding, the Congress should debate them in the open and hold a public vote," he said. Next, Bush will offer executive orders that demand better elocution from public officials and ban smirking.
Dickerson does a tremendous job of articulating the way in which Bush decided to essentially change policy positions on the fly in order to elicit applause from that "base". Not only is he changing policy position, he's flat out lying- he's been the most consistent abuser of some of what he claims to be against. I also like the example given and shot taken at Bush's oration skills- it's not only fitting and true, it's very funny!
Thankfully, the sun is almost at its midpoint in the final year of the Bush regime. My vision of an approaching Bush setting sun have me giddy and anxious, and articles like this only fan the flames of my disdain for and disappointment in this junta. Yes, I said junta!
Peace
AM Son
1.26.2008
Free=Good in '07
In the past year there were several albums released for free (legally) or for minimal costs to the user. A novel idea? Maybe? A profitable idea? Probably not? A good idea? I think most definitely so!
In an age of illegal music downloading and lawsuits against those involved in the pirating of music- it's comforting to know that there are visionary artists and labels out there willing to transcend the establishment and break down the archetype in favor of spreading music! Many bands can offer free or discounted albums because they make most of their profit from touring and merchandise sales- so spreading their music is basically free advertising!
So why do I care about free or low cost albums (other then the obvious)? Well, it just so happens that in 2007 the albums I obtained for free or for a reduced cost were all vying for top honors in my "best album" list. Yes, you read that correctly- they all were solid efforts- which dispels the theory that free music is cast-away sort of stuff or cutting room floor material. These albums aren't just free music to satiate a devoted fanbase, it's honest to goodness top flight music!
Big Head Todd & the Monsters- "All the Love You Need"
-Big Head Todd mailed actual copies of this album to mailing list members and radio stations- hoping to spread the word and garner interest. Everyone else can download the album for free at their website. They were sponsored by a few companies in this endeavor- including Croc (Soles United) as well as Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado. The album is still free- and as far as I can tell it will always be free. In my opinion, this album is classic Big Head Todd. It's great roots type rock music- with great craftsmanship in the writing as well as the playing. For me, this collection of songs was a strong contender for album of the year!
Saul Williams- "The Inevitable Rise and Liberation of Niggy Tardust"
Poet/ rapper/ actor/ writer Saul Williams released this album with options- pay either $5 or $0 for the download of the music. I paid nothing- and after hearing the album wished I had contributed! Admittedly, it's a strange blend of hip-hop, slam poetry, and (due to Trent Reznor production) hard hitting metal noises.... but it's a surprisingly good take on Saul's disjointed, frenetic, and blunt style of art!
Atmosphere-"Strictly Leakage"
One of my favorite rap duos, Atmosphere, have never been known to follow anyone's lead or compromise themselves, their personality, or their art. That is why they surprised their fans with a FREE treat called "Strictly Leakage". I found out about this album download a tad too late (2008) which removed it from consideration for top honors in 2007. Having said that, when one album is packed with tracks like "The Things that Hate Us", "Get it to Get Her", "Domestic Dog", and "You Played Yourself", it has got to be considered among the very best. To make matters even more exciting, Atmosphere is going to release an official new studio album on April 22- it just doesn't get any more exciting for fans of the Rhymesayers or MinneSNOWta hip hop!!
Radiohead- "In Rainbows"
I do not own this album- I kind of slept on this download, and when I came to my senses it was no longer available. This was the talk and buzz of entertainment circles for most of the last 6 months or so. Radiohead has always been known as a trailblazer- not only in their musical style but also in how they present themselves to the world. Radiohead, like Williams, gave fans the option of what they wanted to pay. Only this time, they let you decide just exactly how much to contribute. So, if desired, the album download could be had for $0.00. I like their style, but can't comment on the actual music here- although it's been reviewed quite favorably all over the place!
There were other free or reduced album releases in 2007- I'm fairly confident of that. These are the gems that happened to cross my path- and I'm sure glad they did. I hope this trend continues...
Peace
AM Son
In an age of illegal music downloading and lawsuits against those involved in the pirating of music- it's comforting to know that there are visionary artists and labels out there willing to transcend the establishment and break down the archetype in favor of spreading music! Many bands can offer free or discounted albums because they make most of their profit from touring and merchandise sales- so spreading their music is basically free advertising!
So why do I care about free or low cost albums (other then the obvious)? Well, it just so happens that in 2007 the albums I obtained for free or for a reduced cost were all vying for top honors in my "best album" list. Yes, you read that correctly- they all were solid efforts- which dispels the theory that free music is cast-away sort of stuff or cutting room floor material. These albums aren't just free music to satiate a devoted fanbase, it's honest to goodness top flight music!
Big Head Todd & the Monsters- "All the Love You Need"
-Big Head Todd mailed actual copies of this album to mailing list members and radio stations- hoping to spread the word and garner interest. Everyone else can download the album for free at their website. They were sponsored by a few companies in this endeavor- including Croc (Soles United) as well as Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado. The album is still free- and as far as I can tell it will always be free. In my opinion, this album is classic Big Head Todd. It's great roots type rock music- with great craftsmanship in the writing as well as the playing. For me, this collection of songs was a strong contender for album of the year!
Saul Williams- "The Inevitable Rise and Liberation of Niggy Tardust"
Poet/ rapper/ actor/ writer Saul Williams released this album with options- pay either $5 or $0 for the download of the music. I paid nothing- and after hearing the album wished I had contributed! Admittedly, it's a strange blend of hip-hop, slam poetry, and (due to Trent Reznor production) hard hitting metal noises.... but it's a surprisingly good take on Saul's disjointed, frenetic, and blunt style of art!
Atmosphere-"Strictly Leakage"
One of my favorite rap duos, Atmosphere, have never been known to follow anyone's lead or compromise themselves, their personality, or their art. That is why they surprised their fans with a FREE treat called "Strictly Leakage". I found out about this album download a tad too late (2008) which removed it from consideration for top honors in 2007. Having said that, when one album is packed with tracks like "The Things that Hate Us", "Get it to Get Her", "Domestic Dog", and "You Played Yourself", it has got to be considered among the very best. To make matters even more exciting, Atmosphere is going to release an official new studio album on April 22- it just doesn't get any more exciting for fans of the Rhymesayers or MinneSNOWta hip hop!!
Radiohead- "In Rainbows"
I do not own this album- I kind of slept on this download, and when I came to my senses it was no longer available. This was the talk and buzz of entertainment circles for most of the last 6 months or so. Radiohead has always been known as a trailblazer- not only in their musical style but also in how they present themselves to the world. Radiohead, like Williams, gave fans the option of what they wanted to pay. Only this time, they let you decide just exactly how much to contribute. So, if desired, the album download could be had for $0.00. I like their style, but can't comment on the actual music here- although it's been reviewed quite favorably all over the place!
There were other free or reduced album releases in 2007- I'm fairly confident of that. These are the gems that happened to cross my path- and I'm sure glad they did. I hope this trend continues...
Peace
AM Son
1.25.2008
Big Heart Helps Many
Simply put, IUPUI basketball coach Ron Hunter has a great heart!
Read this story about how one man did above and beyond what is expected in helping those in need.
There's not much to say except; Mr. Hunter I respect you immensely.
Peace
AM Son
Read this story about how one man did above and beyond what is expected in helping those in need.
There's not much to say except; Mr. Hunter I respect you immensely.
Peace
AM Son
1.24.2008
Once
Move over "Michael Clayton"- you've been bumped from the top spot. And the film to credit for this feat is- "Once"! (IMDb entry)
You've probably not heard of this (musical) movie, and if not for the fact that it stars one of my favorite musician/ songwriters I probably would never have heard of it either.
Yes, you read that correctly- I called the film a "musical". However, it's not a musical in the "Fiddler on the Roof", "Phantom of the Opera", or "Rent" sort of way, it's more of a modern "folk/ rock musical". The main male character is Glen Hansard- lead singer and front man for the Irish rock/ roots band "The Frames", while the lead female character is Marketa Irglová- a Czech singer/ songwriter. Being that these two are first and foremost musicians and not actors, the film takes on a real and authentic quality rarely seen in movies nowadays. There's a sense of urgency to the characters- the songs they perform infuse a fresh dose of reality into an already grounded and pedestrian atmosphere. Basically, when watching this movie one feels as if the lead characters could be anybody- even me or you.
The basic premise of the film is simple- ordinary guy meets ordinary girl, they find out they share a love for music, and through their shared love of music come closer together and discover that each other has a secret passion.... (I won't spoil the whole movie!).
Neither character has a specified name- whereas Glen Hansard is listed as "Guy" in the credits, and Marketa Irglová listed simply as "Girl". They never address each other directly either, which leads to an ordinary kind of vibe all the way through the movie. Guy is a street musician (busker) and vacuum repair man (which leads to one of the funniest movie moments of the year) and Girl is a house cleaner. They have an awkward sort of relationship- one which borders on the romantic side while still staying grounded in the acquaintance mold. Neither seems comfortable in their current situation- weather it be professional or personal, but each seems to find strength from one another in order to make the changes they've been longing to see in themselves. What's interesting throughout this movie is how the manner in which the characters interact becomes the driving force for how the viewer plots the outcome in their own head- whereas most dramas set a plot and lead you in a certain direction, this film lets your own perception of each characters actions lead you down your own self prescribed path. I enjoyed the feel this gave the movie... almost as if it could be my own life playing out in parts- I'd try and make decisions for the movie based on what seemed to be important or impending in my own mind.
All in all, I cannot say enough about this movie. The setting is beautiful- and how could it not be- it's Dublin! The characters are beautifully intertwined with each others insecurities and misgivings. The music is mostly that of Hansards solo work or from his band The Frames- which alone is incredible- but made even more powerful through the collaboration of Hansard and Irglová. They compliment each other wonderfully- neither displays any pretense or celebrity- and thusly their styles mesh and empower perfectly. In addition to the music being so wonderful is the fact that it does, in many instances, drive the storyline while adding emotion, elegance, and credence to the overall plot.
I could go on and on about this movie- but I doubt anyone would wish for that. So, I'll just wrap up my thoughts into this concise statement:
If you like
So, what does all the aforementioned stuff mean? It all adds up to mean "Once" was my favorite movie of 2007- and in turn it has a nice spot in my top 10 movies of all time. YEAH!
Peace
AM
Son
1.17.2008
Top 10 Tracks of '07
Here's my top 10 songs from 2007: (not in any certain order)
"Green Gloves"- The National
- a slow, pensive, and creepy account of a guy walking around his friends house with green gloves on- while they're not home. Just awesome atmosphere, lyrics, and music here!
"All the Love You Need"- Big Head Todd & the Monsters
- maybe one of the best songs BHT has ever written! Awesome and engaging chorus, nice message, and catchy as heck!
"Impossible Germany"- Wilco
- maybe one of Wilco's best songs ever too! The chorus draws you in the first time you hear it, and Wilco doesn't forget to add some guitar freestyling and showmanship in the middle of the song too!
"Two"- Ryan Adams
- when not acting out or becoming lost in his own ethereal world, Mr. Adams has a penchant for writing smooth and beautiful songs- to which "Two" shines through as one of his best.
"Mind's Made Up"- Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova
- a song about friendship and support- with a power and beauty all it's own. Great performance of a "Frames" song- and a GREAT movie to boot!
"The Underdog"- Spoon
- a fun tune about life- I think! a little Billy Joel-esque!
"Right Moves"- Josh Ritter
-brooding over past romance maybe? Feeling lost in love? Possibly, but either way this is a great song.
"Body Baby"- Pharoahe Monch
definitely the most fun and "danceable" (haha, even though I don't) song on the list.
"Ode to LRC"- Band of Horses
- I reviewed this puppy in my Album of the Year post a few days ago!
"A Bottle of Buckie"- Ted Leo & the Pharmacists
- I have absolutely no clue what this one's all about, but I just love it! Ted Leo's always got a message he's trying to pound home, but here I just don't know... haha.
Honorable Mention:
it was tough to pick just 10, so I'll stretch the concept a bit here!
"Fake Empire"- The National
- it was tough to pick just one from this GREAT alnum- and "Fake Empire" was first runner up here.
"Falling Slowly"- Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova
- I'll echo the sentiments from above ^^^^ - this album was awesome!
"Halloweenhead"- Ryan Adams
- if not for "Body Baby", here's the most fun song of the year- a bit wacky- yes indeed!!
"Set Me Up"- Shane Nicholson
- cool little pop love song. It's a little too simple to win outright, but it's still got teeth and is solid overall.
"Is There a Ghost"- Band of Horses
- I'll make it 3 times under the "great album, can't pick just one" sentiment from above^^!
In a year full of awesome music, it's tough to pick 10 songs... but I've tried my best.
Anyone agree with any of the selections? Either way, go check out some of these albums and tunes!
Peace
AM Son
"Green Gloves"- The National
- a slow, pensive, and creepy account of a guy walking around his friends house with green gloves on- while they're not home. Just awesome atmosphere, lyrics, and music here!
"All the Love You Need"- Big Head Todd & the Monsters
- maybe one of the best songs BHT has ever written! Awesome and engaging chorus, nice message, and catchy as heck!
"Impossible Germany"- Wilco
- maybe one of Wilco's best songs ever too! The chorus draws you in the first time you hear it, and Wilco doesn't forget to add some guitar freestyling and showmanship in the middle of the song too!
"Two"- Ryan Adams
- when not acting out or becoming lost in his own ethereal world, Mr. Adams has a penchant for writing smooth and beautiful songs- to which "Two" shines through as one of his best.
"Mind's Made Up"- Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova
- a song about friendship and support- with a power and beauty all it's own. Great performance of a "Frames" song- and a GREAT movie to boot!
"The Underdog"- Spoon
- a fun tune about life- I think! a little Billy Joel-esque!
"Right Moves"- Josh Ritter
-brooding over past romance maybe? Feeling lost in love? Possibly, but either way this is a great song.
"Body Baby"- Pharoahe Monch
definitely the most fun and "danceable" (haha, even though I don't) song on the list.
"Ode to LRC"- Band of Horses
- I reviewed this puppy in my Album of the Year post a few days ago!
"A Bottle of Buckie"- Ted Leo & the Pharmacists
- I have absolutely no clue what this one's all about, but I just love it! Ted Leo's always got a message he's trying to pound home, but here I just don't know... haha.
Honorable Mention:
it was tough to pick just 10, so I'll stretch the concept a bit here!
"Fake Empire"- The National
- it was tough to pick just one from this GREAT alnum- and "Fake Empire" was first runner up here.
"Falling Slowly"- Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova
- I'll echo the sentiments from above ^^^^ - this album was awesome!
"Halloweenhead"- Ryan Adams
- if not for "Body Baby", here's the most fun song of the year- a bit wacky- yes indeed!!
"Set Me Up"- Shane Nicholson
- cool little pop love song. It's a little too simple to win outright, but it's still got teeth and is solid overall.
"Is There a Ghost"- Band of Horses
- I'll make it 3 times under the "great album, can't pick just one" sentiment from above^^!
In a year full of awesome music, it's tough to pick 10 songs... but I've tried my best.
Anyone agree with any of the selections? Either way, go check out some of these albums and tunes!
Peace
AM Son
1.11.2008
Congrats to the bearded BoH!!
My Favorite Album of 2007:
"Cease to Begin"- Band of Horses
I became enamored with BoH in 2006, when I heard a song of theirs in a hockey video game soundtrack. I immediately went out and bought their album and was hooked.
Fast forward/ rewind to October 9, 2007 (release day for 'Cease to Begin"), I snagged a copy of this disc from Newbury Comics in Amherst (best music store around!), but didn't listen to it until the following day on a road trip...
Em and I listened to it on our drive to "football" that Sunday, and I then ripped to my iPod and took the music with me to work on Monday. Upon first listen, "The General Specific" stood out to the both of us as a fun, engaging, and solid song!
It was a slow process; the falling in love with this cd. Because the band was fresh and new to me in 2006, I couldn't expect the same "WOW" reaction this time around. Did I have expectations? Sure. Did I over estimate what this album would bring? Nope- that's entertainment sabotage! I went into this album with an open mind (save for the fact that it was being reviewed favorably in the press).
Over the course of a few days, there were a few songs that stood out to me as immediately good tunes- "Ode to LRC", "Is There a Ghost", and obviously "General Specific" all resonated with me right at first listen!
After a few more spins, the depth and breadth of the music totally took me over. This disc is definitely better taken as a whole, and with each subsequent listen that fact became more and more apparent. If this cd were a chocolate bar, it'd be a semi-sweet, semi-dark bar for the fact that the themes explored aren't dire or sad, but they're not sunshiny pop songs either. Between lead singer Ben Bridwell's high tenor which resembles Jim James of My Morning Jacket, and the hard driving and ethereal sound that the band brings to the fold, it just has a sort of real world mundane type of normalcy and sadness that drips from each chord, note, and lyric. Don't misunderstand those characterizations, the sound and feel isn't mundane or "normal", but it just has a "simple man" feel to it- there's no celebrity being shouted from the microphone, and there's definitely no facade of excess or embellishment anywhere in their music. Maybe that's why I gravitate to their sound?
I'm no professional music reviewer for sure, let that be known.... and I'm not keen on plodding through each song- so here's a snippet of what you'll find stored in this awesome collection of songs:
"Is There a Ghost" begins the album off with a bang, in the sense that it grabs your attention. The repeated lyrics of "when I lived alone/ is there a ghost in my house", and "I could sleep" don't lend much to explanation, but they're perfectly sung and are fun to sing and listen to. Meanwhile, the hard hitting drums and quick stops/ starts in a song like "Ode to LRC" are a perfect way to get your blood moving during a workout or otherwise- Bidwell chanting the chorus of, "the world is such a wonderful place" making you feel satisfied and calm. Further on down the line is the plaintive and sad "Detlef Schrempf", (titled after a 90's NBA player) which makes you ponder grief, wronging, and loss.... while at the same time making you wonder just what the song could be about. With lyrics like "And take a little walk/ when the worst is to come/ When I saw you looking like I never thought/ And say you're at a loss or forgot/ that words can do more than harm". Huh, what's an NBA player have to do with this, hahaha?? Well, anyway the song still rocks.... in the slow, methodical, introspective sort of way. "General Specific" is a rollicking and fun jaunt- fit to be a summery type song possibly- a happy sidestep for this band and this album. One more standout track is album closer "Window Blues", which comes perfectly after the working man's lament of "Cigarettes, Wedding Bands"- seamlessly offering a cacophony of the simple mans cure- booze and self destruction!
When taken as a whole, this album really shines. The music is real and grounded, it's not flashy or superficial. The overall song ratings don't reflect a super strong album, but when put together this collection really brings the emotion and makes sense. All in all, there was never much doubt about what cd would take 2007's "Album of the Year" for me! Congrats Band of Horses!
Runner up, and with strong consideration was Josh Ritter's "The Historical Conquests of Josh Ritter"- of which you can read my earlier review here. Also vying for consideration is "Boxer" by The National- another uber-solid collection of music!
Thanks for reading- and stay tuned for my top 10 songs of 2007, as well as other strong album candidates!
Peace
AM Son
"Cease to Begin"- Band of Horses
I became enamored with BoH in 2006, when I heard a song of theirs in a hockey video game soundtrack. I immediately went out and bought their album and was hooked.
Fast forward/ rewind to October 9, 2007 (release day for 'Cease to Begin"), I snagged a copy of this disc from Newbury Comics in Amherst (best music store around!), but didn't listen to it until the following day on a road trip...
Em and I listened to it on our drive to "football" that Sunday, and I then ripped to my iPod and took the music with me to work on Monday. Upon first listen, "The General Specific" stood out to the both of us as a fun, engaging, and solid song!
It was a slow process; the falling in love with this cd. Because the band was fresh and new to me in 2006, I couldn't expect the same "WOW" reaction this time around. Did I have expectations? Sure. Did I over estimate what this album would bring? Nope- that's entertainment sabotage! I went into this album with an open mind (save for the fact that it was being reviewed favorably in the press).
Over the course of a few days, there were a few songs that stood out to me as immediately good tunes- "Ode to LRC", "Is There a Ghost", and obviously "General Specific" all resonated with me right at first listen!
After a few more spins, the depth and breadth of the music totally took me over. This disc is definitely better taken as a whole, and with each subsequent listen that fact became more and more apparent. If this cd were a chocolate bar, it'd be a semi-sweet, semi-dark bar for the fact that the themes explored aren't dire or sad, but they're not sunshiny pop songs either. Between lead singer Ben Bridwell's high tenor which resembles Jim James of My Morning Jacket, and the hard driving and ethereal sound that the band brings to the fold, it just has a sort of real world mundane type of normalcy and sadness that drips from each chord, note, and lyric. Don't misunderstand those characterizations, the sound and feel isn't mundane or "normal", but it just has a "simple man" feel to it- there's no celebrity being shouted from the microphone, and there's definitely no facade of excess or embellishment anywhere in their music. Maybe that's why I gravitate to their sound?
I'm no professional music reviewer for sure, let that be known.... and I'm not keen on plodding through each song- so here's a snippet of what you'll find stored in this awesome collection of songs:
"Is There a Ghost" begins the album off with a bang, in the sense that it grabs your attention. The repeated lyrics of "when I lived alone/ is there a ghost in my house", and "I could sleep" don't lend much to explanation, but they're perfectly sung and are fun to sing and listen to. Meanwhile, the hard hitting drums and quick stops/ starts in a song like "Ode to LRC" are a perfect way to get your blood moving during a workout or otherwise- Bidwell chanting the chorus of, "the world is such a wonderful place" making you feel satisfied and calm. Further on down the line is the plaintive and sad "Detlef Schrempf", (titled after a 90's NBA player) which makes you ponder grief, wronging, and loss.... while at the same time making you wonder just what the song could be about. With lyrics like "And take a little walk/ when the worst is to come/ When I saw you looking like I never thought/ And say you're at a loss or forgot/ that words can do more than harm". Huh, what's an NBA player have to do with this, hahaha?? Well, anyway the song still rocks.... in the slow, methodical, introspective sort of way. "General Specific" is a rollicking and fun jaunt- fit to be a summery type song possibly- a happy sidestep for this band and this album. One more standout track is album closer "Window Blues", which comes perfectly after the working man's lament of "Cigarettes, Wedding Bands"- seamlessly offering a cacophony of the simple mans cure- booze and self destruction!
When taken as a whole, this album really shines. The music is real and grounded, it's not flashy or superficial. The overall song ratings don't reflect a super strong album, but when put together this collection really brings the emotion and makes sense. All in all, there was never much doubt about what cd would take 2007's "Album of the Year" for me! Congrats Band of Horses!
Runner up, and with strong consideration was Josh Ritter's "The Historical Conquests of Josh Ritter"- of which you can read my earlier review here. Also vying for consideration is "Boxer" by The National- another uber-solid collection of music!
Thanks for reading- and stay tuned for my top 10 songs of 2007, as well as other strong album candidates!
Peace
AM Son
1.03.2008
Obama!
Although I'm still wholly undecided in the 2008 political arena, I take great pleasure in the fact that Barack Obama took Iowa! I just don't feel comfortable with Hillary Clinton- I don't like her tone when she speaks, I don't like the fact that she resembles and embodies the "establishment", and frankly I don't like the conservative stances she has taken on some of the important issues.
So, does this mean much? I don't know... but it's a good start for the "change" candidate!!
Again, I'm still not even sure of the candidate whom I fully support just yet- but nonetheless, congrats Obama, now let's carry the momentum over into NH and onward.
Peace
AM Son
So, does this mean much? I don't know... but it's a good start for the "change" candidate!!
Again, I'm still not even sure of the candidate whom I fully support just yet- but nonetheless, congrats Obama, now let's carry the momentum over into NH and onward.
Peace
AM Son
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