There is nothing better in the world than a great breakfast-only restaurant.
Conversely, there is nothing worse for your diet than a great breakfast-only restaurant.
We tried one the other day (for what passes for "brunch" in our household) in Loma Linda, and it didn't disappoint, on either end.
The place was called the Homestyle Cafe, and was modeled just like any other place with that name (including the one that used to be in Guasti, and is now in Chino). There was a mish-mash of chairs surrounding the tables, and coffee came in a mug that led you to believe that other customers were not sharing the design (Gina's mug said something about work and needing the money). And the walls were covered with the proper amount of kitsch and pictures of family and friends.
Of course, just like every place like this, they claimed their pancakes were the biggest in the world. Didn't try one, because I've been down that road in a place like this. When they tell you that, you better be in the mood for a pancake. And no matter what you do, don't try two.
We looked over the menu, and decided to pass on omlettes. First off, the heading over all the choices said: All of our omlettes feature about six eggs. SIX. EGGS. That's how many we scramble together to serve the three of us. Then, they pack in the extras. One choice was a meat-lovers, featuring bacon, sausage, ground beef, ham and chorizo (I think it was all those. Maybe not the ground beef). It did not come with the angioplasty.
We opted for the basics. Gina got bacon and eggs, and I got the diced ham and scrambled eggs. Each of them came with only three eggs, with Gina being served five pieces of bacon. And both came with toast and a side of breakfast potatoes that covered half the plate.
That may not sound impressive until you realize that the plate was oval shaped and was about 24-inches long by 10-inches wide. And half of that was covered in potatoes.
Not that we were complaining, mind you. This restaurant was a little more expensive than some of the others we've gone to in the past (but we haven't been to one in nearly three years). But we went in, got our fill and left knowing that we weren't going to need to rush to a next meal.
OK, now I'm going to air a pet peeve of mine when it comes to burritos:
If you're going to put rice in a burrito, it better not be the ingredient I taste the most.
Frankly, I'd rather there not be rice in a burrito, period. And since I typically don't want beans overpowering the thing, I already order most of them sans frijoles. For me, a good burrito only need carne asada, a little cheese, salsa (and/or guacamole) and maybe small amounts of beans and rice, just to hold the thing together.
This comes up because I went to Tio's Tacos here in Riverside and got me a carne asada burrito and was mostly unimpressed. It wasn't bad, mind you, but when I pony up more than $5 for a burrito, I'd like to taste the meat I ordered to be put in that burrito, not rice.
Now, I know part of the attraction of Tio's is the art work outside. And it was very cool. If I weren't just running over on my lunch break from work, I would have spent more time exploring all the works that have been created using recycled materials. I'll probably go over again one day (with the family) to check it out more, and give the food another try. Overall, the experience wasn't bad (the food was still tasty, after all), but next time, I'll probably just go with tacos.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Stanley's Cup
Is going back to Pittsburgh.
There it is. I called my shot.
Why? Call it gut. Call it guess. Call it a little bit of history.
The last time two teams met in back-to-back finals was when Edmonton finally broke through the New York Islanders dynasty. This series gives off the same vibe.
You have the young, brash Penguins, who have so much talent and so much skill against a gritty, tough Red Wings team. The two teams know each other and they've been through this before. And this time, the kids from Pittsburgh have the advantage of experience.
Wayne Gretzky wrote in his autobioraphy of the first series against the Isles, that after it was over, he and his guys were walking away disappointed, but in good health. But, in the other locker room, while support staff was partying away, the players were tired, beat up, nursing the bumps, bruises and other injuries that come from sacrificing yourself as a team to achieve a singular goal.
The Penguins know that feeling now.
Also, they're healthy. The Red Wings, as deep as they are, are battered. Are they going to be able to keep up with younger legs, who, despite a grueling second round series against the Capitals, have had plenty of time to recover?
The X-factor in all this is in goal (as it usually is in the playoffs). Is Marc-Andre Fluery finally going to live up to the potential and promise of a first-round draft pick? Or will he disappear when it matters most, again? On the other end of the rink, you have the veteran Chris Osgood, who wants that one more Cup win, which likely will propel him from Hall of Fame consideration to near lock status.
One more thing: The Penguins players NEED this more. They fail again, and there will be lots written and said about their failures, and inability to play up to their potential. They need to prove that they're not just the team that comes out of the weaker conference by default. They have to prove they can hang with the big, bad boys from out West.
And while it would be a great story and emotional boost to the people in Detroit ...
Penguins in six.
There it is. I called my shot.
Why? Call it gut. Call it guess. Call it a little bit of history.
The last time two teams met in back-to-back finals was when Edmonton finally broke through the New York Islanders dynasty. This series gives off the same vibe.
You have the young, brash Penguins, who have so much talent and so much skill against a gritty, tough Red Wings team. The two teams know each other and they've been through this before. And this time, the kids from Pittsburgh have the advantage of experience.
Wayne Gretzky wrote in his autobioraphy of the first series against the Isles, that after it was over, he and his guys were walking away disappointed, but in good health. But, in the other locker room, while support staff was partying away, the players were tired, beat up, nursing the bumps, bruises and other injuries that come from sacrificing yourself as a team to achieve a singular goal.
The Penguins know that feeling now.
Also, they're healthy. The Red Wings, as deep as they are, are battered. Are they going to be able to keep up with younger legs, who, despite a grueling second round series against the Capitals, have had plenty of time to recover?
The X-factor in all this is in goal (as it usually is in the playoffs). Is Marc-Andre Fluery finally going to live up to the potential and promise of a first-round draft pick? Or will he disappear when it matters most, again? On the other end of the rink, you have the veteran Chris Osgood, who wants that one more Cup win, which likely will propel him from Hall of Fame consideration to near lock status.
One more thing: The Penguins players NEED this more. They fail again, and there will be lots written and said about their failures, and inability to play up to their potential. They need to prove that they're not just the team that comes out of the weaker conference by default. They have to prove they can hang with the big, bad boys from out West.
And while it would be a great story and emotional boost to the people in Detroit ...
Penguins in six.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Lightning Round
There are many things in this world that are just plain wrong. Here's a few of them:
People offering to sell kittens. Driving in their car. In the parking lot of Wal-Mart. After 9 at night.
Wal-Mart selling women's night shirts that say "America's Next Top Model" on the front. Really, Tyra, have you no shame?
Amish romance novels. And before you think I'm lying, go watch this story from Nightline.
The show "Deadliest Warrior" exploring terrorist groups (the IRA vs. the Taliban) in this Sunday's "season finale." The show does a pretty good job at looking at the weapons of historic warriors, but terrorist groups? What's warrior-like about that?
The Orlando Magic being up 3-1 on the Cleveland Cavaliers. Actually, that's pretty funny because you know ABC and the NBA are dying a little bit inside each day they creep closer to a possible Denver-Orlando final.
This clip from Sesame Street, featuring Jessica Alba teaching the children a new word. And making the father's of most of the children nodding their head furiously in agreement.
Pat Quinn still getting head coaching jobs in the NHL. Seriously. I suppose it's easier to go with a known quantity that's been out of the game for a while, but c'mon.
Peter Zezel, a hard-nosed center for 15 years in the NHL, dying at the age of 44.
Mike Tyson losing his 4-year-old. Hasn't that man suffered and dealt with enough in his life?
Adam Carrola hosting a party/fundraiser featuring super comics (including Bob Saget) and running out of beer less than an hour in, as was recounted on the KROQ's Kevin and Bean Cinco de la Tarde show.
A "Buffy, the Vampire Slayer" property in development in Hollywood, without Joss Whedon's input. Ten, 15 years from now, maybe. But now? That's beyond wrong.
The commercial for McDonald's I just saw while writing this. Hand puppets should not be food.
On that note, I think it's time to wrap up. Look for a original from my MySpace blog tomorrow, and a new Food Friday to finish the week. Have a good week.
On that note, I think it's time to wrap up. Look for a original from my MySpace blog tomorrow, and a new Food Friday to finish the week. Have a good week.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
News o' the day
Busy day in the political world, and of course, I couldn't just let that go...
First off, in California, the state Supreme Court upheld the passing of Prop. 8, making gay marriage illegal.
And while it's a sad and frustrating turn of events, I can't say I'm too surprised. Nor can I say was it the absolute wrong decision by the judges.
To turn over the "will of the people" — even if it was only 52 percent of the people — would have just opened up more criticism and more reasons for those "good Christians" to continue discriminating unjustly against a minority.
They may have won this battle, but they certainly have not won the war.
More conservative states are starting to come around. And as they come around, it may become easier for politicians in Washington (or aspiring for Washington) to stop hiding in closets, hoping that the issue will go away. Because if any of them took up the issue at this point, it would amount to committing career political suicide. There are still too many closed-minded people in this country — the ones who get creeped out at the idea of gay people just living together, let alone married — for anyone in their right (or left) mind to get elected to national office using a platform that includes the rights for gays to marry.
Even President Barack Obama backs away from the issue. President Bill Clinton didn't win any fans, either, with the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy for the military.
This can't happen overnight. And it's been a long time coming. But the war needs to be won at the ballot box. It can't be won in court, because the argument of "will of the people" will always be the trump card.
And it can be. It's just going to take some serious campaigning. Everyone thought that there was no way that Prop. 8 could pass, but the family-first-types went out and campaigned their closed-minded values off. Millions of bumper stickers and signs and commercials. You get enough of those going, and you're going to win votes (especially, as I said Monday, in the redder parts of the state).
So, next chance possible, get a measure on the ballot to repeal Prop. 8. And campaign. And if it fails, you try again. And again. And again.
Nothing worth having isn't worth fighting for. And equality and freedom, those are worth fighting for.
Meanwhile, in Washington, President Obama nominated a Latina for the Supreme Court. And just like Rush Limbaugh, he opened his mouth.
“Here you have a racist — you might want to soften that, and you might want to say a reverse racist."
Really? A reverse racist? What the hell is a reverse racist? The opposite of a racist is someone who isn't a racist you big dunderhead.
Oh my gawd Rush, just because a big bad Latina is coming to the High Court doesn't mean you're going to have to fire your cleaning lady. Or your gardening crew. Or your pool cleaners. Here's a news flash for ya: All of those people willing to do that work for you, they really don't like you because you're a big, fat, lazy American who was hopped up on pain pills. But your money is good, so they won't say it to your face.
Besides, since when is being proud of your heritage, and a life experience that was much different than yours, equated to being a racist?
And for the Republicans out there who are worried about her ruling by "feeling" and taking a common man's approach ... what's wrong with that? Most of the people you serve are the "common man." Just because your donors can afford high-priced lawyers doesn't mean that the rest of us can.
We need more centrist ideals in this country. We need to be thinking of everyone, not just those who can afford a $1,000 fundraising dinner. Those who's opinions on life and politics are not red or blue, but purple. And people who are tired of hot air being blasted up our behinds by people who aren't open-minded enough to accept that they're not perfect.
First off, in California, the state Supreme Court upheld the passing of Prop. 8, making gay marriage illegal.
And while it's a sad and frustrating turn of events, I can't say I'm too surprised. Nor can I say was it the absolute wrong decision by the judges.
To turn over the "will of the people" — even if it was only 52 percent of the people — would have just opened up more criticism and more reasons for those "good Christians" to continue discriminating unjustly against a minority.
They may have won this battle, but they certainly have not won the war.
More conservative states are starting to come around. And as they come around, it may become easier for politicians in Washington (or aspiring for Washington) to stop hiding in closets, hoping that the issue will go away. Because if any of them took up the issue at this point, it would amount to committing career political suicide. There are still too many closed-minded people in this country — the ones who get creeped out at the idea of gay people just living together, let alone married — for anyone in their right (or left) mind to get elected to national office using a platform that includes the rights for gays to marry.
Even President Barack Obama backs away from the issue. President Bill Clinton didn't win any fans, either, with the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy for the military.
This can't happen overnight. And it's been a long time coming. But the war needs to be won at the ballot box. It can't be won in court, because the argument of "will of the people" will always be the trump card.
And it can be. It's just going to take some serious campaigning. Everyone thought that there was no way that Prop. 8 could pass, but the family-first-types went out and campaigned their closed-minded values off. Millions of bumper stickers and signs and commercials. You get enough of those going, and you're going to win votes (especially, as I said Monday, in the redder parts of the state).
So, next chance possible, get a measure on the ballot to repeal Prop. 8. And campaign. And if it fails, you try again. And again. And again.
Nothing worth having isn't worth fighting for. And equality and freedom, those are worth fighting for.
Meanwhile, in Washington, President Obama nominated a Latina for the Supreme Court. And just like Rush Limbaugh, he opened his mouth.
“Here you have a racist — you might want to soften that, and you might want to say a reverse racist."
Really? A reverse racist? What the hell is a reverse racist? The opposite of a racist is someone who isn't a racist you big dunderhead.
Oh my gawd Rush, just because a big bad Latina is coming to the High Court doesn't mean you're going to have to fire your cleaning lady. Or your gardening crew. Or your pool cleaners. Here's a news flash for ya: All of those people willing to do that work for you, they really don't like you because you're a big, fat, lazy American who was hopped up on pain pills. But your money is good, so they won't say it to your face.
Besides, since when is being proud of your heritage, and a life experience that was much different than yours, equated to being a racist?
And for the Republicans out there who are worried about her ruling by "feeling" and taking a common man's approach ... what's wrong with that? Most of the people you serve are the "common man." Just because your donors can afford high-priced lawyers doesn't mean that the rest of us can.
We need more centrist ideals in this country. We need to be thinking of everyone, not just those who can afford a $1,000 fundraising dinner. Those who's opinions on life and politics are not red or blue, but purple. And people who are tired of hot air being blasted up our behinds by people who aren't open-minded enough to accept that they're not perfect.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Monday's Random Thoughts
Hey, I'm back after a brief break. Had lots to write about, just not enough time to do it in.
HATIN' THE GAME: When it comes to the pundits in the political arena, California is as blue as a state can be.
But if CNN's John King took his magical touch screen map that breaks down each state by counties and colors, I'd bet we'd see a bunch more red than people would expect.
I know. I live in the middle of it.
Everyone knows about the ultra-conservative enclave of Orange County, but head northeast into the Inland Empire, and you'll find Republicans have a pretty good stronghold here, from local government on up to federal office. How do you think Prop. 8 got passed in California, of all places? I saw more family first bumper stickers and signs per mile during election season. Heck, I saw someone driving with a No on Prop. 1A sticker on the back of their car Wednesday (as if that was going to pass).
It's actually a pretty good relationship. The Republican-types are able to make sure that things don't get out of control, while realizing that LA and San Francisco voters are going outnumber them in most of the national races.
But what gets me is when it gets all hateful.
I noticed it over the weekend when 3-year-old Briant Rodriguez was found alive in Mexico. It was a happy time to know that this child, taken from his home by intruders, was OK. It was going to be a happy reunion. And my paper was documenting it.
As with many papers, our stories allow comments from readers on the stories. And I made the mistake of reading them.
Things like (paraphrasing): "Just wait until the truth comes out." "That mom looks worried (in the picture) because he was her anchor baby, keeping her here." "I'm sure it had to do with a bad drug deal/coyote payment/immigration issue."
Sure, there most were offset with "Oh, we're glad he was found, but..." It was that way on our competition's comment boards as well.
How about we stop and take into consideration the circumstances before we speak. The comments about the picture really got me. Our picture (see it in this story) was of her, sitting in a car with her son on the way to the hospital, after he had been gone nearly two weeks, after she had been on what was probably her second airplane flight ever, after a wild two days after finding out her son was likely alive ... with a photographer snapping pictures nearly paparazzi style. How do you think she should look?
Thank goodness for the S.B. County Sheriff, Rod Hoops, too. When asked about the mom's immigration status, he turned it back around to "Who cares, the boy was born here, and he's our priority." I'm sure that pissed off the Minutemen types out there.
Probably Dick Cheney, too. Oh, there I go, getting started on him.
Ya know, Dick, if you're worried, why don't you get your huntin' rifle and go start shooting people in the face.
You're doing more damage to this country now than you were as Vice President (which, with his track record, is hard to believe). It's one thing to have meaningful dialogs. But the hate and fear that he's spewing from that pie hole is not doing anything to help the country. You have ideas, present them to the people making the decisions.
Let's face it, you had your turn, Dick. You ran the country for eight years, and had the right to run for the top office to give it another four. Stop going on TV and radio and reminding us of 9/11. We remember. Stop going on and saying that thanks to the changes after 9/11, there were no more attacks. If you'd have stopped that one in the first place, maybe we'd be impressed.
deep, cleansing breath ... count to 10 ... calming ... calming ... OK, better. What was I talking about again? Oh yeah...
So, what was a happy occasion, of a kidnapped boy, being found alive in Mexico after two weeks, suddenly became this bash the "illegals" campaign. And, hey, she admitted they're working to get their documents. But her husband is also working as a cabinet builder, supporting his family. They're paying taxes (we all do when we go shopping), and contributing to society. And now, fearing for their safety, thinking of moving.
It was a happy ending to a scary story. Let's just leave it at that, and let these folks have their lives, without judging them for reaching for their piece of the American dream in a way, that while technically illegal, is sadly not uncommon. It's not our job, as a society, to do that.
BROKEN NEWS: The whole story of the recovery of Briant Rodriguez was a big, fat exclusive that my paper, the Press-Enterprise, got late a couple of Fridays ago. It was so big, that the decision was made to keep the story off the paper's Web site overnight, so not even TV outlets could be tipped off about it.
The thrill of having an exclusive of that magnitude was one that a lot of us hadn't felt for a while, and we were reveling in it.
And for those of us who used to work for the Inland LANG papers, it was even more so. Just the thought of their faces the next morning was enough to make us want to dance jigs.
Then, we got 'em again, with a Web-only story Wednesday night documenting him being home. Our staff was working hard and getting the stories and getting it out there.
By Friday, though, I realized how hollow it all was.
Sam Maloof, the renowned woodworker, died. He was an icon in the area. Lived in Rancho Cucamonga. The flurry of e-mails from our top bosses to the Web team was overwhelming. Post this picture. Here's a timeline, post it. Here's more pictures. Here's another item. It was a massive effort.
Meanwhile, over on the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin's Web site, there was ... nothing. Oh, I saw a couple of blog postings from their reporters in the module that collects those. But no big photo. No big story. Nothing, until 10:25 or so at night (which was the earliest I checked and saw it).
It just made me shake my head. The staff over there has been cut so much that they weren't even able to put on their home page, the main portal to the site, anything of substance about a man who has brought more attention to the region than maybe anyone ever.
We journalists take pride in doing our best, and getting out in front on stories to bury the competition. But when the competition's already buried up to its neck by its own management, it's hard to enjoy the victory. It's actually rather sad.
I still know a few of the people who work there, and have the utmost respect for the job they continue to do under the most dire of conditions. But they deserve a better fate than this.
And so do the readers.
HATIN' THE GAME: When it comes to the pundits in the political arena, California is as blue as a state can be.
But if CNN's John King took his magical touch screen map that breaks down each state by counties and colors, I'd bet we'd see a bunch more red than people would expect.
I know. I live in the middle of it.
Everyone knows about the ultra-conservative enclave of Orange County, but head northeast into the Inland Empire, and you'll find Republicans have a pretty good stronghold here, from local government on up to federal office. How do you think Prop. 8 got passed in California, of all places? I saw more family first bumper stickers and signs per mile during election season. Heck, I saw someone driving with a No on Prop. 1A sticker on the back of their car Wednesday (as if that was going to pass).
It's actually a pretty good relationship. The Republican-types are able to make sure that things don't get out of control, while realizing that LA and San Francisco voters are going outnumber them in most of the national races.
But what gets me is when it gets all hateful.
I noticed it over the weekend when 3-year-old Briant Rodriguez was found alive in Mexico. It was a happy time to know that this child, taken from his home by intruders, was OK. It was going to be a happy reunion. And my paper was documenting it.
As with many papers, our stories allow comments from readers on the stories. And I made the mistake of reading them.
Things like (paraphrasing): "Just wait until the truth comes out." "That mom looks worried (in the picture) because he was her anchor baby, keeping her here." "I'm sure it had to do with a bad drug deal/coyote payment/immigration issue."
Sure, there most were offset with "Oh, we're glad he was found, but..." It was that way on our competition's comment boards as well.
How about we stop and take into consideration the circumstances before we speak. The comments about the picture really got me. Our picture (see it in this story) was of her, sitting in a car with her son on the way to the hospital, after he had been gone nearly two weeks, after she had been on what was probably her second airplane flight ever, after a wild two days after finding out her son was likely alive ... with a photographer snapping pictures nearly paparazzi style. How do you think she should look?
Thank goodness for the S.B. County Sheriff, Rod Hoops, too. When asked about the mom's immigration status, he turned it back around to "Who cares, the boy was born here, and he's our priority." I'm sure that pissed off the Minutemen types out there.
Probably Dick Cheney, too. Oh, there I go, getting started on him.
Ya know, Dick, if you're worried, why don't you get your huntin' rifle and go start shooting people in the face.
You're doing more damage to this country now than you were as Vice President (which, with his track record, is hard to believe). It's one thing to have meaningful dialogs. But the hate and fear that he's spewing from that pie hole is not doing anything to help the country. You have ideas, present them to the people making the decisions.
Let's face it, you had your turn, Dick. You ran the country for eight years, and had the right to run for the top office to give it another four. Stop going on TV and radio and reminding us of 9/11. We remember. Stop going on and saying that thanks to the changes after 9/11, there were no more attacks. If you'd have stopped that one in the first place, maybe we'd be impressed.
deep, cleansing breath ... count to 10 ... calming ... calming ... OK, better. What was I talking about again? Oh yeah...
So, what was a happy occasion, of a kidnapped boy, being found alive in Mexico after two weeks, suddenly became this bash the "illegals" campaign. And, hey, she admitted they're working to get their documents. But her husband is also working as a cabinet builder, supporting his family. They're paying taxes (we all do when we go shopping), and contributing to society. And now, fearing for their safety, thinking of moving.
It was a happy ending to a scary story. Let's just leave it at that, and let these folks have their lives, without judging them for reaching for their piece of the American dream in a way, that while technically illegal, is sadly not uncommon. It's not our job, as a society, to do that.
BROKEN NEWS: The whole story of the recovery of Briant Rodriguez was a big, fat exclusive that my paper, the Press-Enterprise, got late a couple of Fridays ago. It was so big, that the decision was made to keep the story off the paper's Web site overnight, so not even TV outlets could be tipped off about it.
The thrill of having an exclusive of that magnitude was one that a lot of us hadn't felt for a while, and we were reveling in it.
And for those of us who used to work for the Inland LANG papers, it was even more so. Just the thought of their faces the next morning was enough to make us want to dance jigs.
Then, we got 'em again, with a Web-only story Wednesday night documenting him being home. Our staff was working hard and getting the stories and getting it out there.
By Friday, though, I realized how hollow it all was.
Sam Maloof, the renowned woodworker, died. He was an icon in the area. Lived in Rancho Cucamonga. The flurry of e-mails from our top bosses to the Web team was overwhelming. Post this picture. Here's a timeline, post it. Here's more pictures. Here's another item. It was a massive effort.
Meanwhile, over on the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin's Web site, there was ... nothing. Oh, I saw a couple of blog postings from their reporters in the module that collects those. But no big photo. No big story. Nothing, until 10:25 or so at night (which was the earliest I checked and saw it).
It just made me shake my head. The staff over there has been cut so much that they weren't even able to put on their home page, the main portal to the site, anything of substance about a man who has brought more attention to the region than maybe anyone ever.
We journalists take pride in doing our best, and getting out in front on stories to bury the competition. But when the competition's already buried up to its neck by its own management, it's hard to enjoy the victory. It's actually rather sad.
I still know a few of the people who work there, and have the utmost respect for the job they continue to do under the most dire of conditions. But they deserve a better fate than this.
And so do the readers.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Lightning Round
It's been a rough week so far, but I have a few things to put together a quick Wednesday Lightning Round. UPDATE: 6:55 p.m.
I hate stupid people. Especially stupid people I don't know. It makes it easier to write about them.
Was driving to work, going down Lime Ave. toward the office, past the courthouse. For those who don't know the area, there is a bridge going from the courthouse to a parking lot for jury members.
Underneath the bridge that day was a woman talking on her cell phone. It was in the shade, so maybe she was just beating the heat. (But then I wouldn't have anything to write, would I?)
Sure enough, as soon as I went by, traffic was clear for her to jaywalk across the street, ignoring the conveniently place bridge that would have allowed her to cross without, oh, I don't know, BREAK THE LAW!
How ignorant do you have to be? So much so that they're not even worth spelling out ignorant.
I don't follow basketball much, but it was nice to see the Lakers didn't just choke things away. I'd rather hear about them playing for another couple of weeks than starting another soap opera offseason with Kobe and Phil being eliminated early in the playoffs.
Watched the NBA Draft Lottery and laughed when the Clippers got the first pick. Tell me your first thought wasn't "Well, how are the Clippers going to piss this away?"
How come those who have sworn to uphold the law are the first to break the law.
I've seen it a couple of times, and Gina sees it all the time in the desert — police officers talking on their cell phones while driving. Would it kill them to stick a silly looking Bluetooth in their ear?
After all, they're quick to pull you over for doing it, as they did to Gina's boss — which led to more hilarity. You can read about it here.
I am absolutely loving the whole mess between the WWE and the NBA/Denver Nuggets. First off, there's no court in the land that wouldn't side with the WWE. Knowing that Vince McMahon is going to milk this thing for everything it's worth (and he's going to get a nice pay day for backing out of his contract).
If I were him, there are only two options I'd consider for his show next Monday (he has a TV contract to fulfill, too).
One is I'd take the show to Staples Center (it's open, and they've offered), and I spend the whole night talking up the Lakers and bashing the Nuggets.
Or, I'd go to one of the outdoor venues in the Denver area (Mile High, Coors Field or the Colorado Rapids' soccer stadium). Exchange all the tickets for similar seats at the outdoor venue, and then give tickets for the bulk of the rest of the seats for $5 apiece (or just give 'em away) and PACK the place, and then spend the whole night talking up how you filled a huge outdoor stadium on a night the Nuggets were playing.
Either way, he's going to win.
Be interesting to see how the Blackhawks play once they're back home, in front of their frothing at the mouth fans.
It's no secret that there's a lot of NHL fans (not in Detroit) who are rooting for the Hawks just because it's good for the league to have Chicago be a success (and to see someone new in the Cup finals).
But for Kings fans, besides our past playoff rivalries with the Red Wings, we see a lot of hope in the Hawks run, because they've been rebuilt much like the Kings are currently in the process of doing. So we hope that Chicago's success is a sign of things that may come to LA.
Nope, not going to bash the Ducks on their way out. They played well this playoff year, and did it without the semi-goonery they used the year they won the Cup.
But it's a really interesting offseason for them. Lots of questions about who's coming back. Niedermayer going to retire for good this time? Trade Pronger while his value's still high? Selanne has another year on his contract, but will he retire? And Hiller just supplanted Giguere in the playoffs. Was this year just an anomaly for Giggy, or was it a sign of things to come?
Of course, Tim Leiweke — the man who oversees the Kings, Galaxy, Home Depot Center, Staples Center and LA Live for their primary owner, Phil Anschutz — was happy as a pig in slop Tuesday, seeing the company's products all over your TV.
One side of the street had the sports fans, with the Lakers playing at home in the playoffs. Over at the Nokia Theater, you had the finals of "American Idol." No matter the TV shot, you saw the downtown LA entertainment destination — the real reason the Kings are a part of their holdings.
The Kings were the reason he got to build a new arena (Lakers owner Jerry Buss wanted one, too, but I don't think he could have pulled it off on his own). And once it was in, and a success, it was easy to expand to add LA Live.
My brother's an umpire, so he was quick to defend John Lackey's tossing after two pitches. And I know why. But man, wouldn't a warning sufficed if you were worried after the first pitch?
Disney Channel changed the hours it plays its "Playhouse Disney" programs this week, ending the block at 10 a.m. after the "Imagination Movers." So we've moved over to Nick Jr., and I never thought I'd say this, but I kinda miss the "Little Einsteins," when faced with the "Backyardigans." Or maybe I'll just put on the Daily Show/Colbert block on for us to watch in the 10 a.m. hour.
"Dora and the Super Babies" commercial is playing in the background. Nothing more creepy than the thought of "Super Babies."
Item: Fans are starting a Twitter petition in the hope of saving "My Name is Earl." Reaction: I like the show, but let it go people. You got four years out of a show that many wrote off after season one. Besides, Fox may keep it going, because they already produce it, and it makes them money in syndication.
That's it. Hope to have something new tomorrow. May resort to posting an rerun (there are some things I wrote on my MySpace blog that would work here as well, including some more personal stories from my time working at Anaheim Stadium).
Have a good day.
Was driving to work, going down Lime Ave. toward the office, past the courthouse. For those who don't know the area, there is a bridge going from the courthouse to a parking lot for jury members.
Underneath the bridge that day was a woman talking on her cell phone. It was in the shade, so maybe she was just beating the heat. (But then I wouldn't have anything to write, would I?)
Sure enough, as soon as I went by, traffic was clear for her to jaywalk across the street, ignoring the conveniently place bridge that would have allowed her to cross without, oh, I don't know, BREAK THE LAW!
How ignorant do you have to be? So much so that they're not even worth spelling out ignorant.
I've seen it a couple of times, and Gina sees it all the time in the desert — police officers talking on their cell phones while driving. Would it kill them to stick a silly looking Bluetooth in their ear?
After all, they're quick to pull you over for doing it, as they did to Gina's boss — which led to more hilarity. You can read about it here.
**UPDATE: Sure enough, seven hours after posting this, I walked over to get a drink, and on the way back, saw a cop pull up to a red light with his hand on his phone, and the phone up to his ear.
If I were him, there are only two options I'd consider for his show next Monday (he has a TV contract to fulfill, too).
One is I'd take the show to Staples Center (it's open, and they've offered), and I spend the whole night talking up the Lakers and bashing the Nuggets.
Or, I'd go to one of the outdoor venues in the Denver area (Mile High, Coors Field or the Colorado Rapids' soccer stadium). Exchange all the tickets for similar seats at the outdoor venue, and then give tickets for the bulk of the rest of the seats for $5 apiece (or just give 'em away) and PACK the place, and then spend the whole night talking up how you filled a huge outdoor stadium on a night the Nuggets were playing.
Either way, he's going to win.
It's no secret that there's a lot of NHL fans (not in Detroit) who are rooting for the Hawks just because it's good for the league to have Chicago be a success (and to see someone new in the Cup finals).
But for Kings fans, besides our past playoff rivalries with the Red Wings, we see a lot of hope in the Hawks run, because they've been rebuilt much like the Kings are currently in the process of doing. So we hope that Chicago's success is a sign of things that may come to LA.
But it's a really interesting offseason for them. Lots of questions about who's coming back. Niedermayer going to retire for good this time? Trade Pronger while his value's still high? Selanne has another year on his contract, but will he retire? And Hiller just supplanted Giguere in the playoffs. Was this year just an anomaly for Giggy, or was it a sign of things to come?
One side of the street had the sports fans, with the Lakers playing at home in the playoffs. Over at the Nokia Theater, you had the finals of "American Idol." No matter the TV shot, you saw the downtown LA entertainment destination — the real reason the Kings are a part of their holdings.
The Kings were the reason he got to build a new arena (Lakers owner Jerry Buss wanted one, too, but I don't think he could have pulled it off on his own). And once it was in, and a success, it was easy to expand to add LA Live.
That's it. Hope to have something new tomorrow. May resort to posting an rerun (there are some things I wrote on my MySpace blog that would work here as well, including some more personal stories from my time working at Anaheim Stadium).
Have a good day.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Monday's Random Thoughts (TV edition)
Merry Monday to everyone. A little bit of a one-track mind today, but it was a long weekend full of breaking news, so I didn't get a lot of time to get rolling on any other topics... (Edit to add at 9:24 a.m.)
IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE ...: If you're a TV fan, then today starts a time of year that's a bit like Christmas morning.
You know, you unwrap your new toys for the world to see, and within five minutes, that sparkling new toy you had to have has been pushed aside. Or you've gotten jealous over the gift your sibling got. Or you got a "Go-Bot" instead of a "Transformer." Or someone gave you socks.
The TV networks up-front week is also a bit of an archaic exercise by an industry that is still grasping on to it's old business models, and hasn't adapted to a changing world.
Every May, the networks get together and show off the new shows they're going to put on your TV in the fall, mainly so advertisers can figure out which show will be safe for them to put their ad dollars behind.
And every one of those network suits will talk about how they're going to change television or bring a cutting-edge cable mentality to the shows you'll see on your free TV channels.
Uh-huh. Sure you are.
We've heard it all before. Wait until you see this new boundary pushing show ... it'll be great! Six weeks later, and it's off the air.
I think it's safe to say, that in most cases, America does not like "cutting edge." Or, more correctly, the America with Nielsen boxes does not like "cutting edge."
The America with Nielsen boxes likes safe. They like familiar. That's why there's three "CSI's" and three "Law and Order's." It's why Jim Belushi's sitcom is still on the air.
And, it's why NBC turned to Jay Leno to take up five hours a week in prime time. Those socks that you tossed aside when you opened the box on Christmas morning ... turns out they're nice, warm and comfortable.
THAT'S THE THING ABOUT SOCKS: Looking at the synopsis of some of the shows that will be coming to a screen near you, and it's easy to see Hollywood is trying to give you a warm and fuzzy feeling.
By not relying on things that are "new." Let's take a look at some of the "new" shows:
ABC has apparently picked up six episodes of "V." Yes, "V." That '80's miniseries that was turned into a one season series on NBC is back. Alan Tudyk (the pirate from the movie "Dodgeball," and Wash from "Firefly") is set to be one of the stars. I'm sure somewhere down the pike, the phrase "Well, it worked for Battlestar Galactica" was uttered.
Staying on ABC, they're adapting "The Witches of Eastwick" as a series. Rebecca Romijn will be the headliner star. Doubtful they'll be able to pull Jack away from the Lakers long enough for him to make an appearance.
Over at Fox, when they're not showing "American Idol," they'll be digging into the DC Comics archives for "Human Target," about a guy who keeps his clients safe by pretending to be the client. Oh, and ABC already tried it once with Rick Springfield in the title role.
NBC, not wanting to be left out, is rebooting the 1989 Steve Martin-starring, Ron Howard-directed movie "Parenthood." They've got some decent names coming in, though Peter Krause (from "Sports Night," "Six Feet Under" and "Dirty Sexy Money") has some big shoes to fill in the Steve Martin role. They're going the full-on drama route, as far as I can tell. Oh, and ABC (I think), also already tried it as a series.
The CW has a two-fer going this fall. The network that brought us a new version of "90210," is digging into the '90s Fox archive again, by rebooting "Melrose Place," which will include renowned lip-syncher Ashlee Simpson-Wentz. And since they were bringing one old classic up-to-date, they thought, why not go back to the '80s with a "Gossip Girl" spinoff that will look at one of the characters when she was a teen.
Speaking of spinoffs, CBS — the network that brought you three CSI's — is going to well from its other crime scene show, "NCIS." Chris O'Donnell (the former Robin) is set to star in a spinoff of the Mark Harmon-led show.
IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE ...: If you're a TV fan, then today starts a time of year that's a bit like Christmas morning.
You know, you unwrap your new toys for the world to see, and within five minutes, that sparkling new toy you had to have has been pushed aside. Or you've gotten jealous over the gift your sibling got. Or you got a "Go-Bot" instead of a "Transformer." Or someone gave you socks.
The TV networks up-front week is also a bit of an archaic exercise by an industry that is still grasping on to it's old business models, and hasn't adapted to a changing world.
Every May, the networks get together and show off the new shows they're going to put on your TV in the fall, mainly so advertisers can figure out which show will be safe for them to put their ad dollars behind.
And every one of those network suits will talk about how they're going to change television or bring a cutting-edge cable mentality to the shows you'll see on your free TV channels.
Uh-huh. Sure you are.
We've heard it all before. Wait until you see this new boundary pushing show ... it'll be great! Six weeks later, and it's off the air.
I think it's safe to say, that in most cases, America does not like "cutting edge." Or, more correctly, the America with Nielsen boxes does not like "cutting edge."
The America with Nielsen boxes likes safe. They like familiar. That's why there's three "CSI's" and three "Law and Order's." It's why Jim Belushi's sitcom is still on the air.
And, it's why NBC turned to Jay Leno to take up five hours a week in prime time. Those socks that you tossed aside when you opened the box on Christmas morning ... turns out they're nice, warm and comfortable.
THAT'S THE THING ABOUT SOCKS: Looking at the synopsis of some of the shows that will be coming to a screen near you, and it's easy to see Hollywood is trying to give you a warm and fuzzy feeling.
By not relying on things that are "new." Let's take a look at some of the "new" shows:
Oh, and it's not just the ideas that are getting new air time. So are the stars of shows you loved before. Besides Romijn, coming back to new shows, among others, are Courtney Cox-Arquette, Patricia Heaton, and Kelsey Grammer.
ABOUT THAT EDGE: ABC seems to be the network that likes to test its limits on that edge. They've tried and tried and tried over the years, it seems. But for every "Lost" that's worked, there are shows such as "Pushing Daisies" and "Life on Mars" that don't.
And it seems to leave them always in this mode of scrambling to fill.
Which is why it surprises me that they are continuing to push a little with shows that just raise red flags in my head.
One is a mockumentary sitcom that will star Ed O'Neill, among others, that is called either "Modern Family" or "Modern Life." The show follows three families. There's the typical American family, with mom and dad and three kids. There's the older guy (O'Neill) who's married to a younger woman with their kid. And then, there's the gay couple.
Oh, that's going to play in middle America. Sure, "Will and Grace" was a ratings success. But that was a simpler time, when America was just starting to accept that there were gay people in their midst, and that it was OK. Now, we're living in a world where we're fighting over their rights to get married, and, the Christians will love this, even raise children.
I actually have high hopes for the show, and hope it gets a real chance, but the cynic in me is worried that it will get tuned out and treated like "Arrested Development," a great show that was too smart for its own good.
REPRIEVED: Also happy to see that two shows I've been following are officially coming back for a bit.
Both "Chuck" and "Dollhouse" got 13 more episodes, but both will have to cut their budgets. So, expect a few deaths, or people leaving for new assignments next fall.
Also getting picked up was "Better Off Ted" and "Scrubs" on ABC. "Better" is one I just haven't gotten to, but I've heard good things about. And "Scrubs," well, ABC already produces it, and it's probably cheaper to keep it going than developing something new.
MUTE BUTTON: OK, so all I've done is talk about TV. But I'll shut up now. I'm off to LAX today to pick up my dad, and am writing this really early Monday morning. So, I'll try and get some rest and come up with something marginally more interesting (or at least more varied) for next time.
Have a good day.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Fast Food Friday
A couple of food notes for all of us on the go (and neither are your typical "fast food"):
Pepsi is starting to promote two new versions of its signature cola, looking to capitalize on the "natural" movement. And both aren't that bad.
But before we get to them, I like that the idea of "natural" for all these companies is code for "no high-fructose corn syrup." That's pretty much it. After all the bad press HFCS has gotten in causing the obesity problem in this country, I can imagine why these companies want to try and get as far away from it as they can.
But, of course, nothing that tastes good like that comes without a cost. They're replacing it all with SUGAR! Sugar, which will rot your teeth faster. Sugar, which is seemingly as bad for your waistline.
Oh well. At least they seem to be trying.
The two Pepsi products out there are Pepsi Throwback and Pepsi Natural, both touting the idea that there's no HFCS in them. Throwback has been getting the advertising dollars on your TV, while Natural had more of a soft launch.
We tried the Natural soda not long after it was released, and I have to say it is amazingly good — but expensive for the amount you get. It only comes in 12-ounce glass bottles, sold in four- and 12-packs (only seen them at Costco), and it'll cost you about a dollar per bottle.
Using sparkling water (instead of carbonated water), the Natural Pepsi has a nice bite to it, not unlike a handcrafted root beer. It also lists under its ingredients "kola nut extract," which sounds better than a regular Pepsi's "natural flavors."
Of course, just because it's "Natural" doesn't mean it's all that better for you. The calorie count is the same as a 12-ounce can (150 each), as is the amount of caffeine (38 mg). But it does come in with less grams of sugar (38 grams vs. 41 grams), and less carbs (39 vs. 41).
The Throwback version is more readily available at this point. It's taste is pretty close to the Natural version, but you can tell the little differences between the two (at least I could).
Nutritionally, it comes in pretty equal to the other two. The biggest difference: it's sodium count. Regular Pepsi (with the HFCS) has 30 grams of sodium per 12-ounce serving, versus 35 for the Natural and 40 for the Throwback.
The only problem I had with the Natural was that it was so darn good. It's become a nice change from the taste-bud numbing diet colas out there.
But the nice trade-off is it's packaging and price. By going in glass bottles, it makes it a little easier to stick to one of these a day (or less). Meaning you can space out your soda drinking, and drink more water (well, at least that's my justification).
The most evil fast food item I've had recently was at Farmer Bros.
Funnel Cake Fries.
It's hard to go wrong with fried anything, especially batter. And they were good.
But a funnel cake is something you get when you're at the fair or the amusement park. They're a nice diversion while you're having a good time, walking around and able to burn off all that fried goodness covered in powdered sugar.
At the dinner table? Not as much. If you're getting them on their own, I'd say go ahead. But when you've already had a sandwich with fries or rings, it's a bit much.
(What, you want nutritional information? It's fried batter covered in powdered sugar. You've gained two pounds just reading about it.)
One more quick thing. I've been getting a little burned out on all the chain restaurants, and have been trying to go try the independent fast food place.
Actually found a really good one in Grand Terrace, right off the 215 (the name escapes me). And I hit up another in Moreno Valley on my way to work recently. And you know the only place to get a really good, authentic burrito or taco is by going to somewhere without Del or Bell in their name.
So, let's hear some suggestions. You got a favorite, share it with us — either here or on Facebook.
Help everyone break out of the boredom of ordinary drive-thru fast food.
That's it for this week. Catch ya next time.
But before we get to them, I like that the idea of "natural" for all these companies is code for "no high-fructose corn syrup." That's pretty much it. After all the bad press HFCS has gotten in causing the obesity problem in this country, I can imagine why these companies want to try and get as far away from it as they can.
But, of course, nothing that tastes good like that comes without a cost. They're replacing it all with SUGAR! Sugar, which will rot your teeth faster. Sugar, which is seemingly as bad for your waistline.
Oh well. At least they seem to be trying.
The two Pepsi products out there are Pepsi Throwback and Pepsi Natural, both touting the idea that there's no HFCS in them. Throwback has been getting the advertising dollars on your TV, while Natural had more of a soft launch.
We tried the Natural soda not long after it was released, and I have to say it is amazingly good — but expensive for the amount you get. It only comes in 12-ounce glass bottles, sold in four- and 12-packs (only seen them at Costco), and it'll cost you about a dollar per bottle.
Using sparkling water (instead of carbonated water), the Natural Pepsi has a nice bite to it, not unlike a handcrafted root beer. It also lists under its ingredients "kola nut extract," which sounds better than a regular Pepsi's "natural flavors."
Of course, just because it's "Natural" doesn't mean it's all that better for you. The calorie count is the same as a 12-ounce can (150 each), as is the amount of caffeine (38 mg). But it does come in with less grams of sugar (38 grams vs. 41 grams), and less carbs (39 vs. 41).
The Throwback version is more readily available at this point. It's taste is pretty close to the Natural version, but you can tell the little differences between the two (at least I could).
Nutritionally, it comes in pretty equal to the other two. The biggest difference: it's sodium count. Regular Pepsi (with the HFCS) has 30 grams of sodium per 12-ounce serving, versus 35 for the Natural and 40 for the Throwback.
The only problem I had with the Natural was that it was so darn good. It's become a nice change from the taste-bud numbing diet colas out there.
But the nice trade-off is it's packaging and price. By going in glass bottles, it makes it a little easier to stick to one of these a day (or less). Meaning you can space out your soda drinking, and drink more water (well, at least that's my justification).
Funnel Cake Fries.
It's hard to go wrong with fried anything, especially batter. And they were good.
But a funnel cake is something you get when you're at the fair or the amusement park. They're a nice diversion while you're having a good time, walking around and able to burn off all that fried goodness covered in powdered sugar.
At the dinner table? Not as much. If you're getting them on their own, I'd say go ahead. But when you've already had a sandwich with fries or rings, it's a bit much.
(What, you want nutritional information? It's fried batter covered in powdered sugar. You've gained two pounds just reading about it.)
Actually found a really good one in Grand Terrace, right off the 215 (the name escapes me). And I hit up another in Moreno Valley on my way to work recently. And you know the only place to get a really good, authentic burrito or taco is by going to somewhere without Del or Bell in their name.
So, let's hear some suggestions. You got a favorite, share it with us — either here or on Facebook.
Help everyone break out of the boredom of ordinary drive-thru fast food.
That's it for this week. Catch ya next time.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Busy days and nights
OK, things have been a bit busy. Luc woke up before 6 a.m., and threw the whole day's schedule off. Things expect to get busier as the night wears on (two playoff games will make it so).
Have something heavier I'm still trying to get a handle on, so, in the meantime, I came up with something small and quick to fill out my entry today.
The top 10 good reasons working the much-maligned (by me) Wednesday through Sunday schedule:
1. Get to wear shorts and T-shirt to work twice a week.
2. A chance for actual, approved overtime.
3. More chances to have a dinner as a family (even if it's just fast food).
4. I'm still employed.
5. Luc gets more time around children his own age.
6. Won't have to work election nights (though, also means I'll miss election night food).
7. Going to be "off" on those holidays that every one else gets off on Mondays.
8. No bosses around twice a week.
9. The opportunity to catch up on missed sleep (though, likely not to happen)
10. More time to gripe on Facebook, MySpace and the blog.
Have something heavier I'm still trying to get a handle on, so, in the meantime, I came up with something small and quick to fill out my entry today.
The top 10 good reasons working the much-maligned (by me) Wednesday through Sunday schedule:
1. Get to wear shorts and T-shirt to work twice a week.
2. A chance for actual, approved overtime.
3. More chances to have a dinner as a family (even if it's just fast food).
4. I'm still employed.
5. Luc gets more time around children his own age.
6. Won't have to work election nights (though, also means I'll miss election night food).
7. Going to be "off" on those holidays that every one else gets off on Mondays.
8. No bosses around twice a week.
9. The opportunity to catch up on missed sleep (though, likely not to happen)
10. More time to gripe on Facebook, MySpace and the blog.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
The Lightning Round
Some quick hits as I head back to work from my weekend.
The more I hear and read from Dick Cheney, the more I wish he'd have stayed in hiding.
Seriously, if he thinks the things that are happening are making the country worse, maybe he should just go back into his bunker so when the "attacks" come, he can be safe.
Doesn't he realize that things that don't change with the times tend to atrophy, become useless and die off. Oh, wait, maybe he already does, and the process has already started.
You'd think a firefighter would know better than to hose down cement in the current California drought environment.
It looked like he was doing it because they'd been working on one of their cars. So, great, he was might have been washing hazardous materials down a drain. And with all the calls for being water wise ... hope they don't need that water to put out a fire soon.
Guy Fieri has the best job in the world. And man do I wish I knew of a place in the region like the ones he profiles on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.
Bigger sign it's time to move: Small amounts of graffiti start showing up in the neighborhood. Nothing that's affiliated with gangs, per se, but it's never a good start when the kids who live there don't respect the place they live.
That was a heckuva weekend for Corona police. An early morning stabbing that resulted in two young girls deaths (allegedly at the hands of their father), and then two people who allegedly tortured, killed and buried a 2 1/2-year-old girl in a shallow grave. Then the couple (one of them, the girl's mother) called the police to report her missing from a trip to the park.
Oh, and yes, that's the upper-scale CORONA, not dirt poor SAN BERNARDINO.
Not surprised to see scuttlebutt starting that the NHL's Atlanta Thrashers are being targeted as a team that could be in danger of moving in the near future. Never did like the NHL giving the area another chance in the first place. When your first franchise, the Flames, picks up and moves to Calgary, you know the market really doesn't want or appreciate hockey.
I wish Gary Bettman and the rest of the league would just let Jim Balsillie take the Coyotes already. Balsillie's the co-chief executive officer of BlackBerry maker Research in Motion, and this is his second or third shot at trying to buy a team to break to South Ontario (Canada). I know the guy's been generally an ass to deal with, and this end-around he's trying to pull on this deal is shady at best, but don't you want owners in the league who want to own teams and are dedicated to hockey?
Of course, the biggest reason they don't want him to take an existing team is they are hoping to get an even bigger payday out of him by getting him for an expansion fee. That's big bucks for the league, and every other owner. And with no solid TV deal generating money, they'd like the check he can write.
And I'd say the people in the Greater Toronto Area have a point about the need for a team to move in. They haven't had a team, in the Maple Leafs, worth watching in how many years now?
The Kings will be playing an exhibition game in Ontario this fall. Ticket prices are set, and be prepared to pay NHL prices to see a preseason game against the Sharks at the Bank. Great, one team that can't make the playoffs, and the other who can't win in the playoffs. (But I still plan on attending.)
One more NHL item: The league needs to find a way to get a presence back on ESPN. I don't care what it is, but since the World Wide Leader doesn't carry any of their games, they pretty much ignore the sport. Versus and the NHL Network are never going to get the households, or have the pull, that the family of networks has. I'd settle for a half-hour nightly highlights show on ESPN8 (THE OCHO!) about now.
That's all I got for now. Have a good day.
Seriously, if he thinks the things that are happening are making the country worse, maybe he should just go back into his bunker so when the "attacks" come, he can be safe.
Doesn't he realize that things that don't change with the times tend to atrophy, become useless and die off. Oh, wait, maybe he already does, and the process has already started.
It looked like he was doing it because they'd been working on one of their cars. So, great, he was might have been washing hazardous materials down a drain. And with all the calls for being water wise ... hope they don't need that water to put out a fire soon.
Oh, and yes, that's the upper-scale CORONA, not dirt poor SAN BERNARDINO.
That's all I got for now. Have a good day.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
(Not) Coming to a theater near you
Hey, in case you hadn't already noticed, but the Summer movie season has started!
(Memo to Hollywood: Summer doesn't start until June. The first weekend in May is still firmly supplanted in Spring. Kids are still in school. Parents are still at work. It's kind of like when the stores start putting Christmas decorations out before Halloween. Why the hurry to deem it "Summer"?)
Anyway, I spent part of my Monday off scrolling through some trailers for the movies coming to a theater near you, and man were they underwhelming. Underwhelming to the point that, man, there's not a one I'm pining to rush right out and see.
As a comic book guy, you'd think Wolverine would be at the top of my list. Nope. While Hugh Jackman did a nice enough job playing him in the X-Men movies, he had plenty of people around him so he didn't have to completely carry the thing. I know that there are plenty of other mutants around for this one, but, man, I can't say that any of them made me want to drop everything.
Star Trek? It looks intriguing, and is getting some good buzz. But I've never been a Trekker. Always a Star Wars guy first. Might make an effort to see it, but then again, probably won't.
Hey, there's a new Harry Potter movie, too. Unfortunately, I'm one of the 50 literate people in America who haven't read the books, and I've only seen a couple of the movies when they've been on Disney or ABC Family.
One of the full trailers I watched was for "G.I. Joe." Now, when I was a kid, I remember playing with my 12-inch figures all the time (until those cool Star Wars ones hit the shelves ... and the dog had his way with the dolls). And, of course, there was the G.I. Joe cartoon series that came when the new generation of figures came out (complete with morality lessons at the end of each episode). So, there certainly is a curiosity to see what they were going to do with it.
I watched that sucker twice. Not because it was that good, oh no. Because I had to make sure it was as craptastic as I thought it was. AND IT WAS. Oh my goodness. That is going to be this year's "Speed Racer" ... you know, the one that was green lit because of all the memories from childhood that turns into such a turd, that someone's going to get fired for it.
Sure, there are a couple of them I'd like to see. Some of the comedies have the pedigree to be very good: "The Hangover" certainly has the talent to be a very funny movie, with Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms and Zach Galifianakis going nuts in Vegas. "Year One" starring Jack Black and Michael Cera has Harold Ramis as a writer and director, and a ton of great comic cameos (Paul Rudd, David Cross and Hank Azaria) so it has to be considered a contender. And "Land of the Lost" certainly has a lot going for it, with Will Ferrell doing his thing, and a lot of Gen X love for the original series. And the Johnny Depp-Christian Bale movie "Public Enemies" will likely do boffo box office, and actually should be very good.
Of course, I have two major handicaps this summer. First is the schedule. Without sharing days off, it makes it difficult for my wife and I to find the time to get a babysitter and go together to a movie.
Second is the idea that we need to get a babysitter. The last two summers, we have been able to just pack Luc in the car and head to the drive-in to see most of the movies we wanted to see. He'd go to sleep, and we'd be fine to watch the movies.
But now that he's 2, sitting still is not his strongest suit. And trying to get him to pay attention to the big screen (even for a kid-friendly film such as "Up") will be a challenge. I'm sure he'd fall asleep eventually, but until that point, actually watching the movie will not be easy. And going to a walk-in with him ... HA!
And our babysitting situation is difficult. All the family is in Orange County. We haven't found anyone we can trust near us to sneak out to Ontario to theaters we trust at the Mills.
There's also the minor problem that movies just don't stay in the theaters as long as they used to. They're in the multi-plex for a couple of weeks to a month, and then gone. Prepared for the standard DVD, special edition DVD and Blu-Ray release, and put out for On Demand orders on your home television provider.
We never made it out to see "Watchmen," in part, because of that reason. And I read something Monday about the ultra-special things being planned for the Blu-Ray release (it'll have Facebook connectivity ... WHOO!).
Oh well, there's always next year. And poking around, you've already got "Iron Man 2" to look forward to, and a planned "Green Lantern" movie looks like it may come around sometime in 2010.
So, have fun at the movies this summer. You probably won't see me there ... until next year.
(By the way, can you even believe we're talking about next year being 2010. As a child of the 1970's, the idea of 2010 seemed like the time we'd all be living like the Jetsons ... or at the very least like the future presented in "Back to the Future.")
(Memo to Hollywood: Summer doesn't start until June. The first weekend in May is still firmly supplanted in Spring. Kids are still in school. Parents are still at work. It's kind of like when the stores start putting Christmas decorations out before Halloween. Why the hurry to deem it "Summer"?)
Anyway, I spent part of my Monday off scrolling through some trailers for the movies coming to a theater near you, and man were they underwhelming. Underwhelming to the point that, man, there's not a one I'm pining to rush right out and see.
As a comic book guy, you'd think Wolverine would be at the top of my list. Nope. While Hugh Jackman did a nice enough job playing him in the X-Men movies, he had plenty of people around him so he didn't have to completely carry the thing. I know that there are plenty of other mutants around for this one, but, man, I can't say that any of them made me want to drop everything.
Star Trek? It looks intriguing, and is getting some good buzz. But I've never been a Trekker. Always a Star Wars guy first. Might make an effort to see it, but then again, probably won't.
Hey, there's a new Harry Potter movie, too. Unfortunately, I'm one of the 50 literate people in America who haven't read the books, and I've only seen a couple of the movies when they've been on Disney or ABC Family.
One of the full trailers I watched was for "G.I. Joe." Now, when I was a kid, I remember playing with my 12-inch figures all the time (until those cool Star Wars ones hit the shelves ... and the dog had his way with the dolls). And, of course, there was the G.I. Joe cartoon series that came when the new generation of figures came out (complete with morality lessons at the end of each episode). So, there certainly is a curiosity to see what they were going to do with it.
I watched that sucker twice. Not because it was that good, oh no. Because I had to make sure it was as craptastic as I thought it was. AND IT WAS. Oh my goodness. That is going to be this year's "Speed Racer" ... you know, the one that was green lit because of all the memories from childhood that turns into such a turd, that someone's going to get fired for it.
Sure, there are a couple of them I'd like to see. Some of the comedies have the pedigree to be very good: "The Hangover" certainly has the talent to be a very funny movie, with Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms and Zach Galifianakis going nuts in Vegas. "Year One" starring Jack Black and Michael Cera has Harold Ramis as a writer and director, and a ton of great comic cameos (Paul Rudd, David Cross and Hank Azaria) so it has to be considered a contender. And "Land of the Lost" certainly has a lot going for it, with Will Ferrell doing his thing, and a lot of Gen X love for the original series. And the Johnny Depp-Christian Bale movie "Public Enemies" will likely do boffo box office, and actually should be very good.
Of course, I have two major handicaps this summer. First is the schedule. Without sharing days off, it makes it difficult for my wife and I to find the time to get a babysitter and go together to a movie.
Second is the idea that we need to get a babysitter. The last two summers, we have been able to just pack Luc in the car and head to the drive-in to see most of the movies we wanted to see. He'd go to sleep, and we'd be fine to watch the movies.
But now that he's 2, sitting still is not his strongest suit. And trying to get him to pay attention to the big screen (even for a kid-friendly film such as "Up") will be a challenge. I'm sure he'd fall asleep eventually, but until that point, actually watching the movie will not be easy. And going to a walk-in with him ... HA!
And our babysitting situation is difficult. All the family is in Orange County. We haven't found anyone we can trust near us to sneak out to Ontario to theaters we trust at the Mills.
There's also the minor problem that movies just don't stay in the theaters as long as they used to. They're in the multi-plex for a couple of weeks to a month, and then gone. Prepared for the standard DVD, special edition DVD and Blu-Ray release, and put out for On Demand orders on your home television provider.
We never made it out to see "Watchmen," in part, because of that reason. And I read something Monday about the ultra-special things being planned for the Blu-Ray release (it'll have Facebook connectivity ... WHOO!).
Oh well, there's always next year. And poking around, you've already got "Iron Man 2" to look forward to, and a planned "Green Lantern" movie looks like it may come around sometime in 2010.
So, have fun at the movies this summer. You probably won't see me there ... until next year.
(By the way, can you even believe we're talking about next year being 2010. As a child of the 1970's, the idea of 2010 seemed like the time we'd all be living like the Jetsons ... or at the very least like the future presented in "Back to the Future.")
Monday, May 11, 2009
Monday's Random Thoughts
Hey! It's Monday. That means it's time for a few random thoughts. Probably have a lightning round of random thoughts (more, but shorter) later in the week.
LANGUAGE PLEASE: Our apartment complex has seen an influx of children in the past few months. And they like to play near our door.
Actually, they tend to set up shop on the staircase leading up to our door. And, for the most part, they're not too bad. They clear the way when we have to go up and down (mostly) and if I ask them to be quiet so the baby can sleep, they tend to do so.
Now that I'm home on weekdays, I get to see and hear them a little more often.
It's ear opening.
The language that some of them use is outright bothersome. I'm trying to to be an old fuddy-duddy about this, but it's hard hearing someone who looks like they're 8 dropping F-bombs loud enough that the whole neighborhood can hear.
We can get into all the usual suspects when this subject comes up. You know, how the parents aren't around, or how Hollywood makes indecent programming accessible, or they're only repeating what they hear from the older siblings or parents. Yeah, we've heard 'em all.
But let's explore it from another avenue: The devaluing of the language.
In all likelihood, the kids don't really know any better. And they don't know any other way to express themselves. It's just easier (and cooler) to use words that they've been told not to use.
They don't realize the more you use a F-bomb or any other expletive, the less shock value it has, and the less people will listen to what you have to say.
For a good example, look at the movie "Idiocracy." Everyone talked that way — and ONLY that way. Fuddruckers got a creative new name (that, honestly, we've probably all thought about calling it already anyway). By the time the movie was done, you were so numb to the words, that you had to be worried that we sound that way sometimes now.
There was a while there in my late teens/early-to-mid 20's, when I cursed like a sailor. And there are times still when a bomb or two drops from my pie hole. But I try to be more judicious in their use (and not just because of Luc).
That especially goes here. This is my blog, and my posts, meaning I'm my own decency judge. I could go nuts and use every possible curse word or extremely off-color joke I've ever heard (and there have been a couple of posts that when I thought of them, I was upset enough that I was screaming obscenities in my head). But what would be the point?
After all, the pen (or in my case, the keyboard) is still mightier than the sword. And, hopefully one day, the kids will learn that a well-turned phrase is mightier that calling some one a (favorite expletive here)-head.
WATCHING THE ROAD: Coming home from a wedding last week, I saw something that frightened and disgusted me.
A truck/SUV in front of us had three video screens playing for the passengers in the back seat of the car. This, in itself, is not an uncommon occurrence these days.
What was, however, was the size of the one hanging down from the roof of the car.
The thing was huge. It was as big, if not bigger, than my main TV (which, admittedly, is only a 19-incher). It was scary big. It would have taken up half of our Saturn's back seat.
A flurry of thoughts ran through my mind:
* How ADD-riddled are the kids riding in that back seat? You need a screen that size (plus one embedded in each seat back) to keep them entertained? My child's only 2, but I can pretty much guarantee that there will be no monitors that size in my car. He wants to ignore us when he grows up, he can listen to his MP3 player. At least then I'll know it's because he doesn't share my choice of music.
* Recession? What recession? How much money do you have that you can put that into your vehicle? And the self-entitlement it implies. For chrissakes, get a smaller screen and donate some of the savings to charity. I see something like that, and I know it's a gas-guzzling, battery-draining, distracted-driving pain in my rear. And it's on the road in front of me?
* How out of their minds are the parents? You know that the program that was playing (it appeared to be a children's cartoon) has been seen by them and their kids probably about 5,000 times. It's their favorites. And you've seen it over-and-over-and-over-and-over ... you get the picture. I've done a pretty good job of mixing up the children's programs I watch with Luc, but when you're seeing the same episode of "Imagination Movers" for the 10th time, it's hard not to go a little crazy.
I know technology is marching on, and it's making it easier and cheaper for us to do this. But just because we can, doesn't mean we should. After all, none of us had TV's in our car growing up, and we turned out pretty damn good, I'd say.
SPEAKING OF THE IMAGINATION MOVERS: We were out shopping the other day at a Target, and Gina pointed out a new DVD featuring some of the episodes of the TV series.
Which, in and of itself, isn't a really big deal. Every TV show puts episodes out on DVD. Especially when they're involved with Disney.
But upon further inspection, there was something about it that struck a chord. On the packaging was a quote from a critic, telling you how good the show was, and how good it was for your kid to watch.
"The kind of TV parents want their kids watch," read the quote, attributed to Barry Garron of the Hollywood Reporter. Before I even saw the attribution, I looked at Gina and said I know that quote. I had read that quote on a blog I was regularly following from the Reporter. Before Barry Garron was laid off last year.
His review of the show was posted on Nov. 17. Word came down he was out of a job around Dec. 4. Which leaves me with two thoughts.
First: How's that for a lasting monument to a tenure in ones journalism career (even Hollywood trade journalism) — a small quote on the package of a children's DVD?
And second: What's going to happen when the last critic is laid off?
Already, the herd is thin. Where there used to be at least 20 to 30 movie reviews available on the wire from the various papers across the country. Now, you'll be lucky to get 10, and it's usually only for the week's big release(s). Only a couple of critics weigh in on every small movie.
And TV? Good luck with that. There's still a couple, but they are mostly relegated to doing feature stories disguised as insightful critiques. Music? A handful (including one still at the PE).
But what about the blogosphere, the free sharing of ideas on the 'Net?
Well, as much as I appreciate all of you reading, I can't imagine anyone taking my advice on their entertainment options, nor should my name and a quote from a "review" be used on any packaging.
On that note, thanks for reading.
LANGUAGE PLEASE: Our apartment complex has seen an influx of children in the past few months. And they like to play near our door.
Actually, they tend to set up shop on the staircase leading up to our door. And, for the most part, they're not too bad. They clear the way when we have to go up and down (mostly) and if I ask them to be quiet so the baby can sleep, they tend to do so.
Now that I'm home on weekdays, I get to see and hear them a little more often.
It's ear opening.
The language that some of them use is outright bothersome. I'm trying to to be an old fuddy-duddy about this, but it's hard hearing someone who looks like they're 8 dropping F-bombs loud enough that the whole neighborhood can hear.
We can get into all the usual suspects when this subject comes up. You know, how the parents aren't around, or how Hollywood makes indecent programming accessible, or they're only repeating what they hear from the older siblings or parents. Yeah, we've heard 'em all.
But let's explore it from another avenue: The devaluing of the language.
In all likelihood, the kids don't really know any better. And they don't know any other way to express themselves. It's just easier (and cooler) to use words that they've been told not to use.
They don't realize the more you use a F-bomb or any other expletive, the less shock value it has, and the less people will listen to what you have to say.
For a good example, look at the movie "Idiocracy." Everyone talked that way — and ONLY that way. Fuddruckers got a creative new name (that, honestly, we've probably all thought about calling it already anyway). By the time the movie was done, you were so numb to the words, that you had to be worried that we sound that way sometimes now.
There was a while there in my late teens/early-to-mid 20's, when I cursed like a sailor. And there are times still when a bomb or two drops from my pie hole. But I try to be more judicious in their use (and not just because of Luc).
That especially goes here. This is my blog, and my posts, meaning I'm my own decency judge. I could go nuts and use every possible curse word or extremely off-color joke I've ever heard (and there have been a couple of posts that when I thought of them, I was upset enough that I was screaming obscenities in my head). But what would be the point?
After all, the pen (or in my case, the keyboard) is still mightier than the sword. And, hopefully one day, the kids will learn that a well-turned phrase is mightier that calling some one a (favorite expletive here)-head.
WATCHING THE ROAD: Coming home from a wedding last week, I saw something that frightened and disgusted me.
A truck/SUV in front of us had three video screens playing for the passengers in the back seat of the car. This, in itself, is not an uncommon occurrence these days.
What was, however, was the size of the one hanging down from the roof of the car.
The thing was huge. It was as big, if not bigger, than my main TV (which, admittedly, is only a 19-incher). It was scary big. It would have taken up half of our Saturn's back seat.
A flurry of thoughts ran through my mind:
* How ADD-riddled are the kids riding in that back seat? You need a screen that size (plus one embedded in each seat back) to keep them entertained? My child's only 2, but I can pretty much guarantee that there will be no monitors that size in my car. He wants to ignore us when he grows up, he can listen to his MP3 player. At least then I'll know it's because he doesn't share my choice of music.
* Recession? What recession? How much money do you have that you can put that into your vehicle? And the self-entitlement it implies. For chrissakes, get a smaller screen and donate some of the savings to charity. I see something like that, and I know it's a gas-guzzling, battery-draining, distracted-driving pain in my rear. And it's on the road in front of me?
* How out of their minds are the parents? You know that the program that was playing (it appeared to be a children's cartoon) has been seen by them and their kids probably about 5,000 times. It's their favorites. And you've seen it over-and-over-and-over-and-over ... you get the picture. I've done a pretty good job of mixing up the children's programs I watch with Luc, but when you're seeing the same episode of "Imagination Movers" for the 10th time, it's hard not to go a little crazy.
I know technology is marching on, and it's making it easier and cheaper for us to do this. But just because we can, doesn't mean we should. After all, none of us had TV's in our car growing up, and we turned out pretty damn good, I'd say.
SPEAKING OF THE IMAGINATION MOVERS: We were out shopping the other day at a Target, and Gina pointed out a new DVD featuring some of the episodes of the TV series.
Which, in and of itself, isn't a really big deal. Every TV show puts episodes out on DVD. Especially when they're involved with Disney.
But upon further inspection, there was something about it that struck a chord. On the packaging was a quote from a critic, telling you how good the show was, and how good it was for your kid to watch.
"The kind of TV parents want their kids watch," read the quote, attributed to Barry Garron of the Hollywood Reporter. Before I even saw the attribution, I looked at Gina and said I know that quote. I had read that quote on a blog I was regularly following from the Reporter. Before Barry Garron was laid off last year.
His review of the show was posted on Nov. 17. Word came down he was out of a job around Dec. 4. Which leaves me with two thoughts.
First: How's that for a lasting monument to a tenure in ones journalism career (even Hollywood trade journalism) — a small quote on the package of a children's DVD?
And second: What's going to happen when the last critic is laid off?
Already, the herd is thin. Where there used to be at least 20 to 30 movie reviews available on the wire from the various papers across the country. Now, you'll be lucky to get 10, and it's usually only for the week's big release(s). Only a couple of critics weigh in on every small movie.
And TV? Good luck with that. There's still a couple, but they are mostly relegated to doing feature stories disguised as insightful critiques. Music? A handful (including one still at the PE).
But what about the blogosphere, the free sharing of ideas on the 'Net?
Well, as much as I appreciate all of you reading, I can't imagine anyone taking my advice on their entertainment options, nor should my name and a quote from a "review" be used on any packaging.
On that note, thanks for reading.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Fast Food Friday
We all know that eating out is bad for us. Especially your typical fast food meal. And I know that others are out there doing this (and someone I know who USED to do it), but I want to hit a relatively light topic as we hit the weekend (and typically no posts on Saturdays or Sundays), so I thought why not talk about the food at the restaurants we hit way too often.
(Oh, and it won't be just fast food. I'm going to try and get things from all the typical chains, as available).
We'll start with Jack In The Box's new Mini Sirloin Burgers.
Costing $3.99 on their own, the three-pack of burgers come in their own box, dressed with ketchup, cheese and grilled onions on toasted buns.
You look at the price, and you'll probably wonder if it's worth it to get three smaller burgers, versus one big burger. But when it comes to their comparable sirloin burgers, the minis provide the chance to taste the burger without all the extra toppings that load down the others. Their simplicity is its greatest attribute.
And these things aren't tiny, two bites and you're done. Each one gives you a chance to sit there, take a bite and enjoy. The toasted bun adds a nice extra taste, and the simplicity of the toppings leaves you without the worry of things dripping down onto your shirt. And the best part, they don't glob the ketchup on top of them, like many burger places tend to do (or, even better, do what I normally do, order it without ketchup. They're even better).
Oh, and if you're looking at the three burgers and thinking, oy, it's gonna hit me hard on the waistline, you'd be wrong. The company's listed nutrition information has the minis weighing in at 748 calories, with only 267 of those coming from fat (and 29 grams of fat). Their regular sirloin cheeseburger, meanwhile, comes in at 941 calories, with a whopping 538 of those from fat (and 59 grams of fat). And while the carbs are a little higher (77 vs. 60), I can't say it's enough to outweigh the fat intake.
(Quick side note, you can check out Jack In The Box's Web site for all the nutritional info, including an option to build your complete meal.)
So, go ahead and give them a try. If you like a good burger, it's definitely worth it.
Have a good weekend. See you back on Monday with the Random Thoughts.
(Oh, and it won't be just fast food. I'm going to try and get things from all the typical chains, as available).
We'll start with Jack In The Box's new Mini Sirloin Burgers.
Costing $3.99 on their own, the three-pack of burgers come in their own box, dressed with ketchup, cheese and grilled onions on toasted buns.
You look at the price, and you'll probably wonder if it's worth it to get three smaller burgers, versus one big burger. But when it comes to their comparable sirloin burgers, the minis provide the chance to taste the burger without all the extra toppings that load down the others. Their simplicity is its greatest attribute.
And these things aren't tiny, two bites and you're done. Each one gives you a chance to sit there, take a bite and enjoy. The toasted bun adds a nice extra taste, and the simplicity of the toppings leaves you without the worry of things dripping down onto your shirt. And the best part, they don't glob the ketchup on top of them, like many burger places tend to do (or, even better, do what I normally do, order it without ketchup. They're even better).
Oh, and if you're looking at the three burgers and thinking, oy, it's gonna hit me hard on the waistline, you'd be wrong. The company's listed nutrition information has the minis weighing in at 748 calories, with only 267 of those coming from fat (and 29 grams of fat). Their regular sirloin cheeseburger, meanwhile, comes in at 941 calories, with a whopping 538 of those from fat (and 59 grams of fat). And while the carbs are a little higher (77 vs. 60), I can't say it's enough to outweigh the fat intake.
(Quick side note, you can check out Jack In The Box's Web site for all the nutritional info, including an option to build your complete meal.)
So, go ahead and give them a try. If you like a good burger, it's definitely worth it.
Have a good weekend. See you back on Monday with the Random Thoughts.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
KROQ's Limp Weenie
(USING MY BEST RADIO ANNOUNCER VOICE): Hey everyone, tickets for the Weenie Roast y Fiesta go on sale today! Take a look at this lineup that's been gathered for one of the flagship events of the summer in Southern California! Aren't you excited?
I, for one, say meh.
The KROQ Weenie Roast, one of the great festival-type shows in the region for many years, is going soft. This year's lineup inspires so little excitement in me that I'm finding that it's not even worth it to try and call in to win tickets for free.
Now, in fairness, I've never been to a Weenie Roast, and have only been to one KROQ-run show, the first Inland Invasion (before it was moved to LA). And I'm far from a full-time music critic. But every year, when they announce the Roast, I find myself looking down the lineup with some sort of jealousy because I know I won't be able to go.
This year? Let's look at the headliners.
Weezer? OK, they're pretty cool, and Gina loves them, so they get a pass. But they're the headliner, so they're going to have to bring it.
Kings of Leon? I really can't say much about the band. They play the little snippets of their songs in the big promotion commercial, and they sort of blend in to the rest of the music on the radio. And that's not a good thing.
Jimmy Eat World? Have liked the songs I've heard from them ... which all got overplayed on stations across the dial. Probably would be cool to see them live, but...
The rest of the bill is filled with the usual "band-of-the-moment" acts, such as Silversun Pickups, Cage the Elephant, The Airborne Toxic Event and the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs. All of them fine bands, I'm sure.
But, and maybe I'm being overly harsh here, where's that one REALLY big act? Where's Green Day (who has an album the station has been "World Premiering" songs from coming out the weekend of the show)? Where's No Doubt (who's touring for the first time in years right now)? Heck, why not even the Offspring (who also are out supporting a new album)?
The problems are two-fold. First and foremost is the economy. We all know about that, and I won't belabor the point, other than ticket prices aren't astronomical for the show ($65 for seats, $55 for lawn, plus Ticketmaster's fees).
The bigger problem, though, is KROQ seems to be in the middle of an identity crisis. The "World Famous" is struggling with who it's audience is supposed to be at this point. Is it supposed to be me, the nearly 40-year-old who has been with the station for his adult life? Or is it supposed to be for the teen aged rocker who wants to hear the next big thing?
And if you listen, I'm not sure they know. Any given hour, you'll hear a song (or two) from Nirvana, Rage Against the Machine, Smashing Pumpkins or Pearl Jam. All cool jams, but all venturing into the 90's. Sure you'll also get new music from other "older" KROQ bands, such as Green Day, the Offspring or Red Hot Chili Peppers. But a lot of times, their back catalogs get as much play as the newer offerings.
This identity issue can be traced to the current music scene as well. Since the "emo" movement seems to have faded away (thankfully), there's not that one unifying genre of rock to play. The last time I can remember this happening was back in the mid-90's, when you could tune in and hear swing (Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Squirrel Nut Zippers), nu-metal (Limp Bizkit, Korn) and ska (Save Ferris, Reel Big Fish) on the radio, mixed in with the punks and grunge.
Blame the iPod. When everyone's walking around with 500+ songs in a tiny device, it makes it hard to program a station that's still trying to live up to its "World Famous" status.
Oh, I'm sure things will work out. They always seem to in the music business. Bands are still going to need airplay to generate interest and sales. It's not like they'll harness the power of the Internet, making over-the-air radio stations seem as obsolete as a printed newspaper.
Nah ... couldn't happen. Or could it?
I, for one, say meh.
The KROQ Weenie Roast, one of the great festival-type shows in the region for many years, is going soft. This year's lineup inspires so little excitement in me that I'm finding that it's not even worth it to try and call in to win tickets for free.
Now, in fairness, I've never been to a Weenie Roast, and have only been to one KROQ-run show, the first Inland Invasion (before it was moved to LA). And I'm far from a full-time music critic. But every year, when they announce the Roast, I find myself looking down the lineup with some sort of jealousy because I know I won't be able to go.
This year? Let's look at the headliners.
Weezer? OK, they're pretty cool, and Gina loves them, so they get a pass. But they're the headliner, so they're going to have to bring it.
Kings of Leon? I really can't say much about the band. They play the little snippets of their songs in the big promotion commercial, and they sort of blend in to the rest of the music on the radio. And that's not a good thing.
Jimmy Eat World? Have liked the songs I've heard from them ... which all got overplayed on stations across the dial. Probably would be cool to see them live, but...
The rest of the bill is filled with the usual "band-of-the-moment" acts, such as Silversun Pickups, Cage the Elephant, The Airborne Toxic Event and the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs. All of them fine bands, I'm sure.
But, and maybe I'm being overly harsh here, where's that one REALLY big act? Where's Green Day (who has an album the station has been "World Premiering" songs from coming out the weekend of the show)? Where's No Doubt (who's touring for the first time in years right now)? Heck, why not even the Offspring (who also are out supporting a new album)?
The problems are two-fold. First and foremost is the economy. We all know about that, and I won't belabor the point, other than ticket prices aren't astronomical for the show ($65 for seats, $55 for lawn, plus Ticketmaster's fees).
The bigger problem, though, is KROQ seems to be in the middle of an identity crisis. The "World Famous" is struggling with who it's audience is supposed to be at this point. Is it supposed to be me, the nearly 40-year-old who has been with the station for his adult life? Or is it supposed to be for the teen aged rocker who wants to hear the next big thing?
And if you listen, I'm not sure they know. Any given hour, you'll hear a song (or two) from Nirvana, Rage Against the Machine, Smashing Pumpkins or Pearl Jam. All cool jams, but all venturing into the 90's. Sure you'll also get new music from other "older" KROQ bands, such as Green Day, the Offspring or Red Hot Chili Peppers. But a lot of times, their back catalogs get as much play as the newer offerings.
This identity issue can be traced to the current music scene as well. Since the "emo" movement seems to have faded away (thankfully), there's not that one unifying genre of rock to play. The last time I can remember this happening was back in the mid-90's, when you could tune in and hear swing (Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Squirrel Nut Zippers), nu-metal (Limp Bizkit, Korn) and ska (Save Ferris, Reel Big Fish) on the radio, mixed in with the punks and grunge.
Blame the iPod. When everyone's walking around with 500+ songs in a tiny device, it makes it hard to program a station that's still trying to live up to its "World Famous" status.
Oh, I'm sure things will work out. They always seem to in the music business. Bands are still going to need airplay to generate interest and sales. It's not like they'll harness the power of the Internet, making over-the-air radio stations seem as obsolete as a printed newspaper.
Nah ... couldn't happen. Or could it?
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Quacked Up
It finally hit me.
I had the epiphany.
The thing that really, really bothers me about the Ducks.
It's the fans.
Not all of them, mind you. I know plenty of people who are fans of the team who are with them through thick and thin. Through the bad times and the good.
But when we're this deep into the playoffs, and they're winning that everyone in Orange County starts wearing orange and black, and proclaiming their love for the area's hockey team.
(And I really don't care about the non-goal that Detroit had go against it in Game 3. Those are the breaks. They tend to even out throughout the season. This just happened in a playoff game in front of the national media.)
The bandwagon is rolling along, and getting crowded. Full of people who didn't watch a single game this season, who are once again crowing about their Ducks.
Sure, every team in every sport has its share of frontrunners. But it seems to be a bigger problem in hockey than in other sports. So much so, the Yahoo Sports Puck Daddy blog dedicated a whole segment to weeding out the newbies from the long-time fans.
OK, so I'm just a bitter Kings fan who's stuck watching his cross-town rival make a run at their *shudder* second Stanley Cup (and mark my word, whoever wins this series will win the West and play for the Cup). And I take plenty of ribbing from my fellow hockey fans, who love to point out that any hockey still being played in Southern California is better than none. It's a valid point, but A) I don't have to like it; and B) It won't help a darn thing.
Face it. If you were a Dodgers fan in 2002, you had a heckuva time enjoying the World Series, seeing the Angels supplant you as the better-run team in SoCal, play against your hated rival, the San Francisco Giants. What would happen to Lakers fans if the Clippers went to the finals (besides hell freezing over and pigs flying, I mean)? I feel the same way about the Ducks. It's not fun.
And more Ducks games will mean more publicity for the sport in the local papers? Sure, they'll have coverage. But I can guarantee that there are people in management cursing about it, because it's taking space away from other local sports and it's going to eat up their budgets the longer they play.
Things aren't the same as they were two years ago, when papers were able to sell a special section full of ads to allow for more coverage (and got the Cup to make an appearance at my office). And when there's not enough reporters left to actually write any of the stories ...
So, real Ducks fans (and you know who you are), enjoy the ride. And I hope that real soon I'll be complaining about the bandwagon fans that are making it hard for me to enjoy a Kings game.
I had the epiphany.
The thing that really, really bothers me about the Ducks.
It's the fans.
Not all of them, mind you. I know plenty of people who are fans of the team who are with them through thick and thin. Through the bad times and the good.
But when we're this deep into the playoffs, and they're winning that everyone in Orange County starts wearing orange and black, and proclaiming their love for the area's hockey team.
(And I really don't care about the non-goal that Detroit had go against it in Game 3. Those are the breaks. They tend to even out throughout the season. This just happened in a playoff game in front of the national media.)
The bandwagon is rolling along, and getting crowded. Full of people who didn't watch a single game this season, who are once again crowing about their Ducks.
Sure, every team in every sport has its share of frontrunners. But it seems to be a bigger problem in hockey than in other sports. So much so, the Yahoo Sports Puck Daddy blog dedicated a whole segment to weeding out the newbies from the long-time fans.
OK, so I'm just a bitter Kings fan who's stuck watching his cross-town rival make a run at their *shudder* second Stanley Cup (and mark my word, whoever wins this series will win the West and play for the Cup). And I take plenty of ribbing from my fellow hockey fans, who love to point out that any hockey still being played in Southern California is better than none. It's a valid point, but A) I don't have to like it; and B) It won't help a darn thing.
Face it. If you were a Dodgers fan in 2002, you had a heckuva time enjoying the World Series, seeing the Angels supplant you as the better-run team in SoCal, play against your hated rival, the San Francisco Giants. What would happen to Lakers fans if the Clippers went to the finals (besides hell freezing over and pigs flying, I mean)? I feel the same way about the Ducks. It's not fun.
And more Ducks games will mean more publicity for the sport in the local papers? Sure, they'll have coverage. But I can guarantee that there are people in management cursing about it, because it's taking space away from other local sports and it's going to eat up their budgets the longer they play.
Things aren't the same as they were two years ago, when papers were able to sell a special section full of ads to allow for more coverage (and got the Cup to make an appearance at my office). And when there's not enough reporters left to actually write any of the stories ...
So, real Ducks fans (and you know who you are), enjoy the ride. And I hope that real soon I'll be complaining about the bandwagon fans that are making it hard for me to enjoy a Kings game.
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