Wednesday, December 31, 2008

words not to be uttered

Every year Lake Superior State University unveils its list of words and phrases that should be banished forever.





Since 1976, LSSU has been compiling this list based on nominations it receives. This year's unlucky words and phrases include "green" or "going green", "maverick", "from Wall Street to Main Street", "game-changing" and "monkey".





The term "first dude" as coined by almost VP Sarah Palin's husband, Todd Palin was also on the list as was the first emoticon to get the boot; the heart which apparently is made using the less than symbol and the #3.





I'd like to offer some of my own: How about "Joe the plumber", "I personally", "with all due respect", "at the end of the day", "it's not rocket science", "going forward", "not so much", "be that as it may", using the word "so" as an adverb as in, "I'm so going to the concert tonight" and my absolute least favorite is using the word "not" to contradict something that was just said. An example of this would be, "I'm so enjoying my time in the car with you...NOT!"



Feel free to send me the words or phrases from 2008 that you never want to hear again.



peace,



paul

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

This is a sad story and an admonition to all those parents of children who "had to walk 10 miles in the snow just to get to school."

peace,

paul

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/crime/2008/12/30/id.blizzard.death.charges.kmvt

movie minute

Love letters: The lovely Kristin Scott Thomas has been turning in spectacular performances since she burst onto the scene as unfortunate-in-love Fiona in 1994's Four Weddings & A Funeral. And yet she remains one of the most underrated actresses who just happens to be British & French.

She hits another homerun in her latest film I've Loved You So Long in which she plays Juliette who is released from prison after 15 years and goes to live with her sister Lea (played by the radiant Elsa Zylberstein). The two sisters are estranged to say the least but Juliette and Lea are determined to make it work even as Lea's husband struggles with having Juliette in the house and spending time with the couple's two adopted daughters.

The film is cleverly directed by first-time director Phillippe Claudel and it's wonderfully layered not just in the performances but in the revelations that are slowly shared with us along the way.

This is an intelligent film that follows the two women and the difficulties they face in rebuilding a once seemingly unbreakable friendship and sisterhood. And although Thomas gives an absolutely beautiful performance (most of it devoid of makeup) the climax of the film is a bit implausible but the two actresses make it work somehow and give us hope that the two will forge a new bond that is even stronger than we thought it could be.

Bags of popcorn (out of 5): 3

Oscar nominations

Best Actress-Kristin Scott Thomas
Best Supporting Actress-Elsa Zylberstein

movie minute

Button Up: First of all, if a person is born old as a baby then shouldn't they die young as an adult? That's what bothered me most about direction David Fincher's (Fight Club, Panic Room, Zodiac) new film The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button. The movie reteams Fincher with his golden boy Brad Pitt who plays the title character. After being born with a rare (does it even really exist?) condition, Benjamin ages backwards. He starts out as a baby who is about 80 years old and then proceeds to grow younger; he's his own fountain of youth.

The movie is adapted from F. Scott Fitzgerald's story of the same name but apparently the two have little in common with the exception of their title. Even though the film is 2 hours and 44 minutes long, this picaresque picture glides along at a brisk pace. The film starts just before Hurricane Katrina is due to hit with Daisy, an old woman on her deathbed, telling her daughter the story of how she and Benjamin met. It then moves to post WWI with the birth of Benjamin. As Benjamin begins to "age" he meets a 12-year old Daisy with whom he bonds. She is the same age chronologically that he is mentally. The two continue to meet up year after year as she stays with her grandmother at the boarding house in which he lives.

Benjamin eventually goes off to work on a tugboat and gets caught up in WWII. He also meets British woman Elizabeth Abbott (played by Tilda Swinton) although through it all he and Daisy continue their contact with one another.

Their lives continue to intersect in different ways and as Benjamin realizes Daisy (now a grown up played by the radiant Cate Blanchett) is his true love something awful happens which threatens to permanently tear them apart.

The film has been compared to Forrest Gump and rightly so but the difference is this is a beautfiully written love story of two people who literally meet in the middle to live their lives together.

Aside from the medical implausibility of the film, the only other complaint I had was the interludes with the man who "got struck by lightning seven times." The rest of the cast, particularly Taraji P. Henson who plays Benjamin's "mother" are all good too.

The movie is wonderfully directed and is a shoo-in for Best Picture, Best Director and will earn Brad Pitt another Oscar nomination. He has really matured as an actor and has proven just how deft he is at both drama and comedy (as witnessed by this year's earlier release Burn After Reading in which he played a gay gym employee).

Bags of popcorn (out of 5): 4.25

Oscar nominations:

Best Actor-Brad Pitt
Best Picture
Best Director-David Fincher
Best Screenplay
Best Adapted Screenplay

Monday, December 29, 2008

You, down front, Shhhhhh.....

Who would have thought a movie about a man who ages backwards could be so dangerous? Certainly not the Philadelphia, PA family who took in the film "The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button" on Christmas Day. The family were sitting in front of 29-year-old James Joseph Cialella who threw popcorn at the son in order to get them to stop talking. When that didn't work, Cialella argued with the family and then approached the family from the left. The father stood up and was then shot in the arm by Cialella with a .380 caliber handgun. Cialella was arrested and taken into custody.

I guess going to see the manager to get the family to be quiet was just too easy in this case. Now he'll never know the ending to this almost 3 hour movie!

peace,

paul

Friday, December 19, 2008

movie minute

Slumming for answers: You are reading this movie review because:

(A) You like me
(B) I encouraged you to
(C) It is written
(D) You have nothing better to do for five minutes

And thus begins the new film Slumdog Millionaire, cleverly crafted by maverick British director Danny Boyle (Millions, 28 Days Later, Trainspotting).

First off, the film is not an original idea which I was disheartened to discover. No, it's based on a novel titled Q&A by Indian diplomat Vikas Swarup. Having said that, the movie is still a must see if for no other reason than it's just the positive and uplifting push that India needs right now after the three days of terror that Mumbai experienced in late November; a terror that crippled the city and ended with some resignations by some government officials.

The film cuts between the past and present of street beggar Jamal Malik. When we first see Jamal, he is being interrogated and tortured by the police because they suspect him of cheating on the TV show Kaun Banega Crorepati (the Indian version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?). Despite the torture, Jamal continues to profess his innocence and that he made it to the final question on the show by actually knowing the answers.

From there, we actually get to see how he knew each of the answers that he was presented with on the show. We see him and his older brother Salim and how they learn to survive on the streets after the brutal death of their mother. Afterwards, one of the city's head gangsters grooms Salim to join his operation in which the brothers would beg for money. Along the way, the brothers also meet orphan Latika who proves to be the love of Jamal's life. He never stops searching for Latika no matter how many times they are separated.

The film moves along at a wonderfully brisk pace and we see each step of the way how the brothers and Latika survive the harsh streets. The past continually brings us back to the present and the next question on the game show and we clearly see how Jamal knew the answer; no matter how difficult the questions become. Fans of the show know that as the contestant racks up the money, the answers to the questions prove more and more elusive.

When Jamal does finally make it to the final question which is worth 20 million rupees, we discover that the slick host is the biggest skeptic as to how Jamal knows all the answers. The host is played by Hindi actor and producer Anil Kapoor; a better looking and suaver version of Regis Philbin. All of the actors in the film believably portray their characters; thus making the film even more engaging.

The end is touching as the whole city is brought together by an unlikely "hero" on a guilty pleasure game show.

This film has been called the Juno or Little Miss Sunshine of the year and I will be surprised if it doesn't go all the way and amass some Oscar nods. Whether it will win the big prize remains up in the air but I will say this: Considering the other movies that are up for nominations for Golden Globes (a good precursor to Oscar nods) Slumdog Millionaire has possibly a better chance of winning Best Picture than Juno or Little Miss Sunshine could have dreamed about.

Bags of popcorn (out of 5): 5

Oscar Nominations Predictions:

Best Picture
Best Director
Best Screenplay
Best Cinematography
Best Score

Friday, December 12, 2008

Viral video

No, it doesn't have a virus but it is all over the internet (hence, the word viral). Enjoy but do not try this yourself.

paul


http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/10/video-unhappy-shanghai-lady-tows-the-tow-truck/

Friday, December 05, 2008

Food fight

Well this is just bizarre. A man in Vero Beach, FL was arrested on December 4 and faces charges of assault. The weapon a Mickey D's cheeseburger. Yes, those pickles and processed meat can be quite dangerous.

Apparently, the man and his girlfriend were arguing in the car outside of their home. When the man would not let the woman out of the car, she threw his drink out the window (isn't that the logical response?) As a result, the man took his cheeseburger (or maybe it was hers) and smashed it into her face. After the two of them did finally get out of the car, he proceeded to mash the burger into her face a second time. Bluto would be so proud.

peace,

paul
A cool thing for the troops. This will only take a few seconds and is perfect to let troops know you are thinking about them; especially this time of year.

peace,

paul


http://www.letssaythanks.com/

Thursday, December 04, 2008

cinema craze

It's that time of year when movie studios begin pumping out the big guns. No, not the shoot-em-up, car chasing, guns ablazing films but the ones they have high hopes will score some nominations for little golden men. Oscar season is my absolute favorite time of year and this year is no exception and I've already begun my movie watching spree. However, some movies are more anticipated than others and this year there are 5 that I am absolutely chomping at the bit to watch. Sadly, I have to be at the beck and call of release dates and limited openings. In the meantime, I'll just talk about them (some more). Below the five films on my MUST SEE plate.

Slumdog Millionaire: This movie is the Juno or Little Miss Sunshine of 2008. Director Danny Boyle (Trainspotting, 28 Days Later) fashions a heartwarming movie that tells the tale of Jamal, a young lad living in modern day India who is constantly getting into trouble. After Jamal and his older brother witness their mother brutally murdered, they turn to the streets and become slumdogs.

The story takes a turn when Jamal finds himself on India's version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire and finds that he is smarter than he thought and becomes to win buckets of money. However, detractors are not far behind and soon begin questioning how a slumdog knows so much.

This film won the Audience Award at the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival and is sure to be a crowd pleaser. It's also been rumored that it could snag a nomination for Best Picture (just like Juno and Little Miss Sunshine did).

Milk: Gus Van Sant is back with the first non-documentary about activist and politician Harvey Milk. This film has LONG been in the making; not this particular film but it's been known for many years that different directors and actors were looking to make this movie. Sean Penn snagged the title role and completely immerses himself in the part and into the polyester era.

The movies follows Harvey's rise to being the first openly gay politician and his eventual assassination by city supervisor Dan White. White is played by Josh Brolin, who like Penn, seems to be getting better with age. James Franco, Diego Luna and Emile Hirsch also star in this film that screams OSCAR. By the way, if you look at a picture of the real Harvey Milk and Sean Penn in character as Milk, they really do look the same.

The Reader: Based on the book by Bernhard Schlink, The Reader is a WWII set movie in which a young boy becomes fascinated with an older woman. The woman is played by 5-time Academy Award nominee Kate Winslet. The two begin a relationship and then lose touch. Several years later, they happen upon each other again; this time the boy is in school doing research on and she is on trial. This movie is not a happy one (nor was the book) but the performances are sure to be terrific and Winslet is in not one, but two highly anticipated movies this season. The other is with her Titanic co-star Leonardo DiCaprio in Revolutionary Road. Winslet's biggest competition for her sixth Oscar nomination (which she is certain to get for Best Actress unless she get Supporting) is Meryl Streep.

Which brings me to the next film...

Doubt, starring Streep herself. Based on the Pulitzer Prize winning play and directed by John Patrick Shanley (the playwright himself), Doubt is set in the Bronx in 1964 and tells the story of domineering principal Sister Aloysius (Streep) who when she gets wind that the charismatic Father Flynn (Philip Seymour Hoffman) has been spending too much time with the school's first black studnet, Sister Aloysius decides that something is amiss and that Flynn has to go.

I did not have the pleasure of seeing the play but this film looks HOT. I've heard that some critics think Streep is unconvincing as Sister Aloysius but the trailer looks as if she might be able to pull it off. What makes this film really interesting is the boy's mother is Tony award winning Viola Davis (Nights In Rodanthe, Antwone Fisher) who decides to go toe to toe with Sister Aloysius over matters relating to her son. The scene with Davis and Streep better crackle with energy and the whole movie better be nothing short of brilliant because this is the one of all of them I'm looking most forward to. The cast is rounded out by Amy Adams (so good in Enchanted and Junebug) and there are rumors that this could be the first film in a long time to garner Oscar nominations from all four main actors.

I've Loved You So Long: Kristen Scott Thomas is one of those actresses whose beauty sometimes undermines just how talented she really is. The Academy award winning actress plays Juliette who has recently been released from prison. When she is picked up at the airport by her sister Lea (Elsa Zylberstein), the two realize how estranged they really are. From the trailer, it looks as if Thomas gives a heart-wrenching, not to mention makeup free performance which could score her her second Oscar nomination.

Honorable Mentions:

The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button: No, this is not an original screenplay (very few are anymore). The movie is adapted from a story by F. Scott Fitzgerald. A man, Benjamin Button (Brad Pitt in full make-up mode) is born in his 80's and slowly ages backwards. This is another movie that screams Oscar and it's a good bet this one could make it to the top race come January. That really is Brad Pitt's (almost a shoo-in for his second Oscar nom) face throughout the movie (and not Gollum's better looking cousin). The movie also features Cate Blanchett, Taraji P. Henson, Julia Ormond and last year's Supporting Actress winner Tilda Swinton.

Defiance: How could I resist the piercing blue eyes of James Bond portrayer Daniel Craig? He plays one of four Jewish brothers in this film based on the true story of said brothers helping Russian resistance fighters guide Jews to safety in Nazi occupied Poland during WWII. The movie also stars Jamie Bell (Billy Elliott all grown up).

Happy Viewing...


peace,

paul

Wednesday, December 03, 2008

music scene

Who says there's nothing good on the radio? There are a number of songs I'm enjoying that are currently in heavy rotation. By the way, the new album by The Killers (Day & Age) is definitely worth the price. Which brings us to the first song, the first single from that album...

"Human" by The Killers: Who cares if the lyrics are cryptic "Are we human or are we dancer? My sign is vital, my hands are cold." What???? It doesn't matter if you're still clueless because the driving beat in this song is a foot-stomping one and makes me want to bob my head and jump up and down with feel good excitement.

"So What" by Pink: Please do not exceed word count.'" by Pink: It's hard to believe that Pink has been around for about eight years. The first single from her fifth studio album is as in your face as ever. When she's not singing about losing her husband, getting into fights and grousing that her table was just given away to Jessica Simpson, Pink is telling that no good louse what a tool he is and how she's having more fun than she ever did when he was around. Ouch! Another foot stomper with some head banging thrown in for good measure.

"Just Dance" by Lady GaGa: Less famously known as Joanne Stefani Germanotta, New York born Lady GaGa's first single from her The Fame album is a perfect club song. We all know what it's like to be the center of attention on the dance floor, don't we? We're out with friends, having fun, maybe one too many drinks and then our ABSOLUTE FAVORITE song comes on and we have to strut our stuff right to the center of the floor. This one's a hip shaker.

"Love Story" by Taylor Swift: Swift's first single from her second album is one of those country songs that kind of sound like pop. In fact, the first time I heard it I thought it was Jewel (who's actually gone country). It's a sweet song that talks about love ala Romeo and Juliet. Two young lovers overcome seemingly insurmountable odds (including one very strict father) to become betrothed to each other.


"Right Now" by Akon: Let's face it Akon or Aliaune Thiam, is still hot (and I mean in terms of success). His first single from his third album is another one of those songs he's become famous for. The ones that get inside your head and refuse to exit. This time it's about a couple who break up (my guess is it was the guy's fault) and he realizes his mistake and pleads with her to make up and link up...right now. The song is a bit racy during the bridge when Akon sings "I wish you could dine with me, one that would grind with me". There's no subtlety there now is there?

"If I Were A Boy" by Beyonce: In this song, pop/R&B princess Beyonce ruminates on how she would act and treat her lady love if she were in fact of the male persuasion. And if I were a girl, I'd wear the flashiest dresses, strut around in the highest heels and stare at myself in the mirror remarking on how pretty I am (oh, wait, I already do that one).

So those are a few of the songs I'm liking these days. What are YOU listening to?

peace,

paul

Hunter becomes hunted

Deer season has started and fellows (and ladies) let's be careful out there. There have been so many stories of hunters being shot by their buddies (hello, Cheney) that it's ridiculous. Now there's a new danger to contend with; your kill striking back.

In Missouri, a hunter was nearly maimed to death by a 9-point, 240lb buck after he shot it twice. Randy Goodman used his .270-caliber rifle to kill the horned beast and was probably thinking about how proud his buddies would be as he approached the seemingly dead animal. Once Goodman reached Bambi's father, the deer jumped up and struck Goodman with an antler before trying to escape. Two more shots did the trick; for real this time. Goodman recalls the moment as "15 second of hell". He not only got bragging rights but also paid for it with a concussion, bruises and 7 new staples in his thick head. No word on whether he needed new underpants.

peace,

paul

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

movie minute

Oztalia: The magnificent and brilliantly artistic Baz Luhrmann is back with a movie that is as grand as the country it is set in. Australia is a sweeping epic that is visually stunning from start to finish.

The movie is set just before WWII and tells the story of Lady Sarah Ashley (the beautiful as ever Nicole Kidman) and her struggle to finish what her husband Maitland Ashley started; bringing a cattle farm in the harsh outback of Australia back to life. The film is told from the point of view of Nullah (played by Brandon Walters) an aborigine whose mother dies while hiding from the police. Sarah takes a maternal interest in the boy and does everything she can to protect him as. As Sarah and the company she has hired struggle to move the cattle to the wharf in order to sell them, she and cattle herder Drover (the talented Hugh Jackman) butt heads over how things should be done. Sarah and Drover are a modern day Rhett and Scarlett and it's clear from the day they first meet that these two are destined to be together.

The main story of the film is not about the fiery relationship between Lady Sarah and Drover but about young Nullah's quest for a home, family and sense of belonging. Nullah becomes a part of Sarah and Drover's family but once the war begins, he is wrenched away from the two and put with all of the other half-casts on Mission Island.

Like Scarlett in Gone With The Wind, Sarah undergoes a major transformation as she discovers within her a courage and strength she did not realize she had. Drover, like Nullah, realizes that he is longing for a family after closing himself off from the pain and disappointment of love. I have to say that this is arguably the best role I've seen Jackman in and the young boy who plays Nullah is incredibly precocious.

The film is a shoo-in for some major Academy Award nominations unless voters are put off by the length. At 2hours and 45 minutes, the film could have been about 20 minutes shorter. Having said that, however, the landscapes, scenery and costumes are amazing and Luhrmann does know how to keep the story moving swiftly.

If you are a fan of Kidman, Jackman or Luhrmann you'll enjoy this movie. If you are a fan of stunning cinematography, you'll enjoy it even more.

Bags of popcorn (out of 5): 3.5

Academy Award nominations predictions:

Best Director
Best Picture
Best Costume Design
Best Cinematography

Long Shot:
Best Actor: Hugh Jackman

encouraging video

My man Keith speaking out for the GLBT people...Yea!!!!

http://www.queerty.com/keith-olbermann-special-comment-on-gay-marriage-20081110/

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Enjoy!!!
Wanna quit your day job? Just do what Steve Demeter did. Write a game for a phone. Steve wrote the game "Trism" and put it on Apple's App Store for just $4.99. After just two months, the game earned him over $250,000. Steve promptly quit his job and started his own development studio. He's currently working on five new games, including a sequel to Trism. Trism can currently be played on the iPhone.

peace,

paul

powerful passing

A 13-year-old boy at a Martin County school was arrested by police on November 21 because he was disrupting his class by (get ready for it)....passing gas and turning off the computers of his classmates. What I don't understand is exactly how was he turning off the computers? Was it his mighty wind or was he actually getting up and turning them off? Either way, his mother must have been so proud (not!) when he was released into her custody. That's my boy!!!

peace,

paul

Friday, November 21, 2008

Help...I'm dead!

I may have posted this before but it's too funny NOT to post again. Cop confiscates pot and then bakes it into brownies. The second video is a parody of the first. Enjoy...


http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=1f4_1179038976

http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/5574/marijuana-brownies-the-911-call-from-secretfuntime

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Wouldn't hurt a fly

Another bank robbing story this time from California. An elderly grandmother has robbed two banks and both times told the tellers she was being forced into robbing the bank. She played up the fact that she was fearful for her life and even appeared to be strapped to a "bomb". Victim or Genius? You decide...Enjoy the clip.


http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=4226712&cl=10752950&src=news

Stop that chair...

A 45-year old man in a wheelchair was arrested in Florida last week after allegedly robbing a Space Coast Credit Union. The guy managed to wheel a whole block before being captured by police.

Christopher Reed, a paraplegic, entered the credit union and demanded money and saying he was armed with an explosive device (insert your own joke here).

After being captured, Reed told police that two men forced him to commit the robbery and that he had given the money to the men but eyewitnesses said Reed was the sole culprit and the money was found in Reed's prosthetic leg. Also found; a bottle of vodka in his motorized chair.

What I want to know is how in the world did he get out of the bank in the first place? Is his chair really that fast? And who held the door for him? Did people actually see the explosive device or did they just take his word for it? So many questions that will probably never be answered, alas!

Now Reed will be in jail and he'll have all that he needs: Food, water, exercise, entertainment...

Have a great day.

paul
These are always fun and they'll make you feel better about yourself (unless one of them is about you). Enjoy.

paul


Idiot Number One of 2008:

I am a medical student currently doing a rotation in toxicology at the poison control center. Today, this woman called in very upset because she caught her little daughter eating ants. I quickly reassured her that the ants are not harmful and there would be no need to bring her daughter into the hospital. She calmed down and at the end of the conversation happened to mention that she gave her daughter some ant poison to eat in order to kill the ants. I told her that she better bring her daughter in to the emergency room right away.

Here's your sign, lady. Wear it with pride.

Idiot Number Two of 2008:

Early this year, some Boeing employees on the airfield decided to steal a life raft from one of the 747's. They were successful in getting it out of the plane and home. Shortly after they took it for a float on the river, they noticed a Coast Guard helicopter coming toward them. It turned out that the chopper was homing in on the emergency locater beacon that activated when the raft was inflated. They are no longer employed at Boeing.

Here's your sign, guys. Don't get it wet; the paint might run.


Idiot Number Three of 2008:

A man, wanting to rob a downtown Bank of America, walked into the branch and wrote this, 'Put all your muny in this bag.' While standing in line, waiting to give his note to the teller, he began to worry that someone had seen him write the note and might call the police before he reached the teller's window. So he left the Bank of America and crossed the street to the Wells Fargo Bank. After waiting a few minutes in line, he handed his note to the Wells Fargo teller. She read it and, surmising from his spelling errors that he wasn't the brightest light in the harbor, told him that she could not accept his stickup note because it was written on a Bank of America deposit slip and that he would either have to fill out a Wells Fargo deposit slip or go back to Bank of America. Looking somewhat defeated, the man said, 'OK' and left. He was arrested a few minutes later, as he was waiting in line back at Bank of America.

Don't bother with this guy's sign. He probably couldn't read it anyway.


Idiot Number Four of 2008:

A motorist was unknowingly caught in an automated speed trap that measured his speed using radar and photographed his car. He later received in the mail a ticket for $40 and a photo of his car. Instead of payment, he sent the police department a photograph of $40. Several days later, he received a letter from the police that contained another picture, this time of handcuffs. He immediately mailed in his $40.

Wise guy.... . ... But you still get a sign


Idiot Number Five of 2008:

A guy walked into a little corner store with a shotgun and demanded all of the cash from the cash drawer. After the cashier put the cash in a bag, the robber saw a bottle of Scotch that he wanted behind the counter on the shelf. He told the cashier to put it in the bag as well, but the cashier refused and said, 'Because I don't believe you are over 21.' The robber said he was, but the clerk still refused to give it to him because she didn't believe him. At this point, the robber took his driver's license out of his wallet and gave it to the clerk. The clerk looked it over and agreed that the man was in fact over 21 and she put the Scotch in the bag. The robber then ran from the store with his loot. The cashier promptly called the police and gave the name and address of the robber that he got off the license. They arrested the robber two hours later.

This guy definitely needs a sign.


Idiot Number Six of 2008:

A pair of Michigan robbers entered a record shop nervously waving revolvers. The first one shouted, 'Nobody move!' When his partner moved, the startled first bandit shot him.

This guy doesn't even deserve a sign.


Idiot Number Seven of 2008 Arkansas :

Seems this guy wanted some beer pretty badly. He decided that he'd just throw a cinder block through a liquor store window, grab some booze, and run. So he lifted the cinder block and heaved it over his head at the window. The cinder block bounced back knocking him unconscious. It seems the liquor store window was made of Plexi-Glass.The whole event was caught on videotape.

Yep, here's your sign.


Idiot Number Eight of 2008:

I live in a semi-rural area. (Weyauwega, Wisconsin). We recently had a new neighbor call the local township administrative office to request the removal of the Deer Crossing sign on our road. The reason: 'Too many deer are being hit by cars out here! - I don't think this is a good place for them to be crossing anymore.'

STAY ALERT! They walk among us... and they REPRODUCE...and they VOTE!!!

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Goodbye, Charlie Brown...

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

Can I have one, mom, huh, huh, can I?


Found on the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia after an eight decade absence, these tiny nocturnal insectivores are reminiscent of the gremlins that were seen in the 1984 movie of the same name.
Researchers were hunting for the pygmy tarsiers that weigh 2 oz in order to fit them with tracking collars. An anthropology professor from Texas A&M had her finger bitten by one when she was putting a collar on one of them; they have the ability to turn their heads 180 degrees (move over, Linda Blair).
Although the lil creatures are of the primate family, they have claws instead of fingernails. They are the smallest and rarest primates on the planet and are probably house broken so chances are they wouldn't make that good of a pet. Besides, they don't like bright light and should NEVER EVER eat after midnight.
peace,
paul


Wednesday, November 05, 2008

weekly post from November 1, 2008

Hello friends & loved ones,

It's been a very weird week weather wise. We actually had some snowflakes in the chilly air this past week and yet today it's sunny and in the high 60's...Welcome to Western, NY weather; one day you could be in short sleeves and shorts and the next in your winter coat.


I've been in an introspective mood this week and I've been thinking a lot about love this past week and how we love certain people but want nothing to do with others. Two people can be exactly the same and yet we love one and can't imagine loving the other (for whatever reason). I've always maintained that I'm shallow when it comes to my first reaction to meeting or seeing someone. Yes, I do look at the physical appearance first and then everything else follows. Of course, what does follows is even more important...truth, morals, kindness, sensitivity, spontaneity, a zest for life, humor, humility, relaxed, strong Christian values and ability to life at the absurdity of life. It's puzzling what draws two people together and even more puzzling why two people who were so hot and heavy for each other can a month later be at each other's throats and claim to "not love the person anymore." I don't believe in the term "falling out of love" because you either love someone or you don't. If you truly love someone, you make it work with that person and stick it out through the good and bad times, no matter what. Unless your life is in danger or the person is just truly a jerk, you work it out and stay together. I have been guilty of not living up to that and have had the other person in my life decide they don't want to make it work. Relationships are difficult and sometimes can be complex but either you love the person or you don't People don't just magically fall out of love, they just stop trying It's still the same person you originally met but people seem to think that you can only love someone if they are who you want them to be instead of who they actually are.

I guess what I'm trying to say is let's have a lot more love and really try to make relationships work and if they're not working, try something different. Whatever it takes with the exception of cheating, lying or killig. If you're in a relationship, really take a long look at the person you're with and ask yourself, "Do I really love this person?" "Do I know what truly loving someone means?" and "Do I have what it takes to make this work, no matter what?" There's enough hate in the world...let's add a lot more love and drown the hate.

Be loving this weekend to everyone you know; even to people you don't know.

Pray for each other as I pray for you.

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Stocking Stuffers

Tina Fey better watch her back because there's a new rival for her Sarah Palin impersonation...she's a doll, literally.

The Sarah Palin cabbage patch doll is going to be auctioned off for charity on eBay's website. There's one thing wrong with this doll and I can't belive no one thought of it. It doesn't talk. There should be some Palinisms. Pull Sarah's string and you can hear such gems as "My record is out there", "Alaska is all over the map right now", "Gosh darn it", "Darn tootin'", "We're taking the high road", "You can actually see Russia from land here in Alaska", and some bonus ones like, "John McCain is my MAVERICK", "We need a change, not more of the same" (irony, anyone?), "I'd like to use one of my lifelines." Imagine the fun she'd be at a party.

Barack Obama, John McCain and Joe Biden have also been made into cabbage patch dolls. The proceeds will benefit the US Marine Corps' Toys for Tots foundation.

peace,

paul

Halloween Bowling

Have fun....

paul


http://www.itsga.com/fun/cat_new.swf

I can't see Russia but I can see the ocean from this house.






No, Gosh darn it this isn't the home of a terrorist or political hater. Instead it's a West Hollywood home who has decided to cross the line of tastelessness in the name of free speech. A dummy Sarah Palin (as opposed to the real dummy) is hanging in effigy while an angry looking John McCain burns in the chimney on the roof. Although I think it looks a bit more like Nixon than McCain. Officials have determined that no laws are being broken (except for the "white trash" law) although Secret Service officials did visit the house for fear that the owners were a threat to the Presidential and VP nominees. The city received dozens and dozens of calls from people all around the country complaining about the "decorations". No word on whether any of those calls were from Alaska.
peace,
paul

Bringing the tricks & treats back

For the town of Oil City, PA, this Halloween will be the first festive one in a long time. Sixteen years ago an 11-year-old girl was abducted and murdered and that began a long dry spell for trick or treating after dark. Yes, it was banned.

The only way this was going to be overturned was by the will of a child and that's exactly what happened. Fifth-grader Elizabeth Ross got all the necessary signatures, essayed her argument and spent an (exhausting, I'm sure) entire two months trying to get City Council to bring back nighttime trick or treating. Well, it worked. (However, I would like to know how involved her parents were in the City Council part).

Yes, some people are still skittish and will be taking extra precautions to protect their children; including tethering them (perfectly safe, I assure you). There will also be extra policemen out (a whole 7 instead of 4), extra security guards and some crossing guards too because if all else fails you can always use the huge STOP sign as a weapon to deter criminals.

Seriously, though, I do hope the town of Oil City has a blast tomorrow night and that no one takes the fun out of the "poor man's Christmas."

peace,

paul

Saturday, October 18, 2008

weekly post from October 17, 2008

Hello friends and loved ones,

The smell of autumn is permeating the air outside and the leaves are dropping from the trees fast and furiously. Even though I've been somewhat out of commission for the last week and a half, thanks to bronchitis and pneumonia, it's great to be alive and to be able to breathe.

This email was inspired by a brief conversation I particiapted in at church and as I was formulating how to begin and what to say, a song came on that I really like. A song, I might add, by a rapper I had brought up in the aforementioned conversation. The song is called "Lose Yourself" and I lost myself in it as I blasted as high as it would go without the bass starting to shake, rattle and roll the car.

If you're not familiar with the song, it's ok because you might be familiar with the artist: Eminem. Yes, I listen to the occasional rap song and, yes, I like Eminem's music. We hang out with friends and family everyday and think we know them like the back of our hands and then BOOM! we discover something we never would have guessed; such as Paul likes Eminem's music.

Now don't get me wrong, I don't like some of the things Eminem has said and done in the past but I can separate the two and realize that despite his messy personal life he is still a talented songwriter and has crafted some great tunes.

Just as we don't really have a rhyme or reason as to who we choose to love, I also believe that each person likes different things (even the most shocking) for different reasons. Would I let my kids listen to Eminem? Not a chance! At least not until they are 18.

Some other things I like: Fish (just about any kind), Survivor, Akon, country music, singing in the car, Newsweek magazine, silver as opposed to gold, Keith Olbermann, documentaries and a good bottle of Pinot Noir.

So, as you're going along this weekend and the coming days; don't be ashamed of what you like. You are you and nobody else. Therefore, enjoy what you like with pride. And remember it doesn't make you a bad person if you listen to rap...it might be a different story if you start taking some of the words to heart, however.

Next week: Falling out of love? Fact or Myth?

Until then pray for each other as I pray for you.

Stay safe, stay happy and stay healthy.

peace,

paul

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

weekly post from October 5, 2008

Hello friends & loved ones:

This is not the email I had planned to write but when the spirit calls, one should listen (or face the consequences).

I will get this out of the way first: This is the time of year that I begin to get excited because the new tv season has started (From late Sept. to May I am a tv junkie; look out if one of my shows is on) and it's also the time of year when the movies that will be nominated for major Academy Awards begin to be released. I enjoy the mad dash to see them all before the big show. But as excited as I am during this time of year, I'm also hit with a sadness of sorts. I'm a giver/doer/helper and it's hard when I meet someone or love someone who does not appreciate that or takes that for granted or does not know how to give back fully. Thanks to my Pastor I've learned to enjoy life to its fullest and I even wake up cheerful now which is something I NEVER used to do. I give with all my heart; live passionately; revel in laughter; seek the fun that each day has to offer and try to squash negativity at every turn. It's not easy (at least not for me but I did learn from a master at it). It's very liberating and even when everything is going wrong, as long as I look at the irony and oddity of life I know I'll be smiling and realizing that everything is going to be alright.

It's great to be alive and it's even better to give your love to someone. The hard part comes when that love is not appreciated or when that love is not readily accepted. One has to realize that not everyone is suited to be together and sometimes one person is just not ready to be loved or share their love. It might just not be the right time. It's difficult and also a life lesson. It helps to grow us and make us better people.

I feel like I'm rambling so I'm going to wrap it up; but I will leave you with this. Realize your gifts/talents/assets and use them 100%. Don't become discouraged if you come up against someone who does not appreciate what you have to offer. Instead pledge to strengthen your resolve and sharpen those gifts so that the next person you meet (one who will surely appreciate what you have to offer) will certainly be damned thankful they met you.

Continue to pray for each other as I pray for you.

Until next time: Stay safe, stay happy and stay healthy.

love,

paul

Friday, October 03, 2008

weekly post from September 26, 2008

Hello my friends & loved ones:

I'm sitting here in my office (thankfully I still have one, especially after last week's bombshell at the company) on my lunch break with the beautiful September sun shining at my back while the music pounds in my ears and I'm thinking how grateful I am for so many people and things. And that started the idea to write about this week's topic: Enjoying life.

It sounds so simple, I know but so many people go through life with no enjoyment. I'm not saying that we should all aspire to be Mary Poppins 24-hours a day; no one can do that, although it is possible to come close. What I'm talking about is enjoying the people, pleasures and daily activities that life brings our way each and every day. This includes being thankful, truly thankful for the loved ones and friends we have been blessed with. I will admit that I'm not the best at always staying in touch but I do try to do my best everyday. I can also appreciate the many beautiful things that surround me each day and find joy and laughter in just about everything. It's not an easy task if one is not used to doing it but it can be done and once you get in the habit, it becomes easier and you'll find you get more out of life. It is true what they say, 'Laughter is good for the soul.' I think that's what's wrong with so many people; they don't laugh (or smile) enough. Yes, life can be difficult and people can truly suck sometimes, however, it's what you make of this life that counts. What matters is how you treat others, the good you do, how passionately you love, the joy you try to bring to others, the smiles you share with those who aren't smiling, the truth you strive for, the honesty you strive for each day, the positive attitude you allow to permeate your soul and the laughter you elicit from others. The importance of each of the above are what should be stressed each day.

As I sit here, continuing to write and share these thoughts with you I'm thinking of how good it feels to be back sharing myself and letting each of you into my heart, mind and soul. It can be difficult to share and open up to someone, especially if the other person won't or can't do the same. It becomes troubling when someone you love doesn't share in your daily enthusiasm, passion and love. Where does one go from there? How much does one try to break through to someone before giving up? These are the thoughts I have roaming through my head on this cool, sunny and crisp September day.

Wherever you are today, I hope that you are praying for each other as I pray for each of you (even if you don't think you are a blip on my radar; I know who I'm writing to).


Stay safe, stay happy and stay healthy.

peace,

paul

fact checking

I like these...the day after the debates the real truths come out.

Click on the link to find out the real deal.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081003/ap_on_el_pr/debate_fact_check

VP voices

So, who really won the VP debate that aired last night? Does it really matter? Yes and no. No, because we're not technically voting for the VP and yes because I believe that the answers and attitudes of the VPs can have some effect on the running mate.

Between Sarah "gosh darn" Palin and Joe "bridge to nowhere" Biden I believe that Biden had the edge and took the debate. Palin, however, didn't do too badly except when she kept dodging McCain's healthcare plan. Also she was blinking too much and what was with the bangs in her eyes? Did she think she was back in high school? And, I'm sorry, but all I could see whenever I looked at her was the portrayal of her by Tina Fey. While we're on the subject of looks-has Biden had some sort of plastic surgery? His eyes seem funny.

Anyway, the two discussed Iraq, the economy, taxes and even touched on same-sex marriage. The Republican party must have been sighing with relief as soon as the debate concluded, especially after the recent embarrassing interviews Palin has had which have called into question her readiness for the high office. FYI: She's not ready!!!!! And one other thing: Palin made an odd comment when she shook hands with Biden. Her remark, "Nice to meet you...Hey, can I call you Joe?" Well, that is his name. What would you want to call him, ass? (Ass is in reference to the Democratic symbol of the donkey....oh, you got it, ok.)

The only thing that would have made this debate better is if it had been Hillary in Biden's spot. Now THAT would have been riveting television. Can you imagine the viewership? Two strong women; one smart, one eh, so so, both clashing on the important issues. It would have been akin to Crystal and Alexis on Dynasty. Wow!!!

The second Presidential debate is next week and I'll be watching. Maybe McCain will actually "talk" to Obama this time...or not.

peace,

paul

Wednesday, September 24, 2008


Let's all drink safely this Halloween, please. We don't want any accidents.


peace,


paul

movies vs. tv vs. dvds...decisions, decisions

A year ago I did not have a Netflix account; I had heard of Netflix but didn't really have a great interest. That all changed at the beginning of the year. After getting a subscription, I discovered the joy of having up to four movies at a time (movies that I want to see) and not having to worry about returning them "on time". I could return them whenever I got around to watching them AND I could return them at any post office I happened to pass by. How utterly convenient!!! I' still enjoying my subscription and plowing through the movies at record speed. If I time it just right, I can have the brand new releases mailed on Monday and delivered on Tuesday. If I time it absolutely perfectly, I can have up to four new releases delivered on Tuesday.

Having said that, now I've got the brand new tv season vying for my time and this is the time of year when the movies that end up getting major Academy Award nominations start being released. The first one is Burn After Reading (I'm betting Pitt will get a nod for his comedic turn). I don't have to worry about ALL of the tv shows I usually watch because they will eventually be released on DVD and I could put those in my Netflix queue. How utterly convenient. Having said that, any relationship I'm in will be threatened because I HAVE TO SEE ALL OF THE FILMS NOMINATED FOR MAJOR ACADEMY AWARDS (Picture, Director, Actor, Actress, Supporting Actor & Actress); it's a must for me and anyone I'm with who doesn't understand that must be discarded. Ok, I'm not that cavalier about relationships but I'm pretty darn close.

So, how does a full-time working guy manage all of the media and men vying for his attention. Well, there isn't men but man and the man has to take a backseat. I'm sorry but I like my tv and movies.

This won't last long; only about five months until the Academy Awards air and then I can just focus on tv and wonder if I can time my dvd returns just right to get the new releases delivered before I see the bright red writing saying "Long Wait" or horror of horrors "Very Long Wait."

Enjoy the season because I know I will.

peace,

paul

He's OUT, so what?

Clay Aiken, American Idol's 2003 runner-up, has finally confirmed the long swirling rumors that he is gay. On the heels of the birth of his son, Parker, Aiken has said, "I cannot raise a child to lie or hide things." The quote is from an interview that appears in the latest issue of People magazine.

That's quite a difference from what he was saying a mere two years ago when asked about his sexuality, "I don't really feel like I have anybody to answer to but myself and God and the people I love."

That's all well and good but he waits until he's no longer "hot" to drop this "bombshell." It would have been more daring had he come out while he was still on American Idol. But then again, it really wouldn't have been much of a surprise, would it have been?

peace,

paul

Thursday, September 18, 2008

DVD of the week

Heart & Souls: In the just released to DVD Young @ Heart, you'll be uplifted and entranced by the determination and energy displayed by the group of seniors the film features.

The story follows the group's beginning in Northampton back in 1982 and goes on to showcase the rehearsal process of one season as the group prepares to perform at the Academy Theatre. The film won raves when it played at several film festivals last year and speaks to the power and passion that singing can bring; even if the group being highlighted are singing some wildly unpredictable tunes.

Yes, the Young @ Heart group does not sing classical or showtunes. Instead, they sing songs like Coldplay's "Fix You"; Sonic Youth's "Schizophrenia"; Bruce Springsteen's "Dancing In The Dark"; and James Brown's "I Got You (I Feel Good)" among others.

Throughout the film, many of the members do personal interviews and we follow them through their daily lives when they aren't rehearsing. There are also some fun video style performances from various chorus members as they "film a video" to different hits.

Young @ Heart is a film that should not be missed but, be warned, this movie isn't all roses and laughs. Afterwards, you'll never look at a senior citizen quite the same again.

peace,

paul

It's Paul, not Paula

Too good to be missed...enjoy.

peace,

paul

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tu-YAMiS5wA

weekly post from September 14, 2008

Hello friends & loved ones,

Autumn is in the air. In fact, in a mere 8 days it will officially be the fall season. The leaves are already turning at an alarmingly fast rate and the air has the coolness that is only associated with the Sept-Dec. months. It's hard to believe that in only 140 days it will be a new year and only one more year until the next decade. Where does the time go?

Earlier this year I was raving about getting braces in the year 2008 and get them I did. I've had them for about four months now and, believe it or not, I've actually noticed a difference in both my upper and lower teeth. What's more (and even more gratifying) my dentist has noticed the difference as well. In the scheme of things it's still early (I'll be wearing them until at least next May) but I'm so excited by the movement thus far that I spend even more time than ever studying myself in the mirror.

Well as I sign off on this "way overdue" weekly email I want to wish each of you the best, happiness and much laughter in your life. Believe you me, life is way too short to take it seriously and to forget what is truly important in life. I continue to pray for each and every one of you even though I have not done an email in a long time. Each of you remain in my daily thoughts and prayers.

Continue to pray for one another as I pray for each of you every day.

peace,

paul

Friday, September 12, 2008

DVD of the week

First 'Son': The recently released to DVD movie Son Of Rambow (PG-13) tells the story of two schoolboys who, inspired by the film Rambo: First Blood, set out to film an action-adventure movie which they hope will win them a young filmmaker competition. Set in the early 80's, complete with accompanying early 80's music, the film follows the friendship that develops between the worst boy in school Lee Carter (played by Will Poulter) and Will (played by Bill Milner) who is a member of a Plymouth Brethren religious sect.

Will hits the ground running almost as soon as they begin filming as he imagines that Rambo is actually his father and dives headfirst into the role of "Rambo's son". As the film progresses, a new character enters the picture; one that threatens to permanently sever the already tenuous relationship between Will and Lee: The arrival of French exchange student Didier Revol (Jules Sitruk). The effiminate Didier proves to be a rival for Lee and eventually Didier and Will take over the film, leaving the just-wanting-to-be-loved Lee out in the cold.

A near fatal accident eventually sets the stage for the slow rebuilding of the relationship between Lee and Will.

The movie is well-acted, fresh, inventive and mostly unpredictable; the unpredictability becoming more and more a rarity in the world of independent films. Directed by Garth Jennings, Son Of Rambow is a charming, heartwarming story of friendship, betrayal and reconnection that is sure to soften even the hardest of hearts.

Rent it today.

peace,

paul

Monday, September 08, 2008

Make it a marvelous Monday

Here's something to brighten up your Monday morning. Click the link below and enjoy.

(http://www.peteyandpetunia.com/VoteHere/VoteHere.htm)

Thursday, September 04, 2008

Convention Critic

Today is the last day of the Republican National Convention and, having watched a lot of it and most of the Democratic National Convention, I thought I would offer up a few comments.

First of all, I really enjoyed Hillary's speech at the DNC, however, her orange pantsuit was not a good fashion statement. I am still sadly disappointed that she was not chosen to be Obama's running mate but, hey, maybe in four years something good will happen; you never know.

I thought that Obama's speech at the DNC was as smooth as all of his other speeches and I think he offered up a lot of rhetoric and made a lot of promises that he is going to be unable to keep.

As for the RNC, well, even the President stayed away and that should tell people something. What, I don't know but it's a sad day when the man in the White House can't even make a live appearance at his own party's convention. Par for the course I say.

Last night's speeches were vitriolic and mean-spirited; especially Giuliani's speech ripping into Obama. I think he's still bitter because he didn't have enough oomph to get the party's nomination so he's taking it out on the Dems; why not?

And, finally, the speech EVERYONE was waiting for: The speech by VP hopeful Sarah Palin. First of all let me just say this-she isn't a bad speaker and when I'm not distracted by how much she looks like Elaine from Seinfeld, I actually listen to her and she is similar to Obama in her speech. After hearing her speak, I thought, it wasn't bad but what did she really say? And I'm going to be blunt but inexperience was written all over her last night. She can give a good speech but I can see how green she is and that's not someone I would like to see in the VP position. And, by the way, what is with the names of her children? Her daughters' names are Willow, Piper and Bristol and her sons' names are Track and Trig. Odd.

Well, what I'm looking forward to now are the debates and I'm sure I'll have plenty to say after those too.

Until then...

peace,

paul

Back to school

Well, school is back in session and I recently had the experience of school supply shopping....complete with a detailed (and I might mention, long) list of things that each child needs. The list is broken down by grade and it's no wonder parents (especially parents with multiple children) get uptight as school draws closer; because they have to spend hundreds (not making that part up) on school clothes AND school supplies. It's a new day for schoolchildren. I remember growing up and we bought pens, pencils, folders and that was pretty much it. Today you have to buy EVERYTHING from glue sticks to storage bags; from highlighters and crayons to scissors and index cards. It's true what they say; schools don't provide much anymore (sadly, not even a very good education) with all the cutbacks and school closings. So, parents, I feel your pain but just think-once those kids grow up and get a good paying job they can continue to support you in the lifestyle you should be living.

peace,
paul

Monday, August 25, 2008

Medal Monitor

The games are over and shut down for another four years. The final tally of medals shows that the U.S. did not disappoint (110 medals to China's 100 and Russia's 72). China did lead the U.S. in the number of gold medals (51 to 36).

Hope everyone enjoyed the games.

peace,

paul

Friday, August 22, 2008

Medal Monitor

The U.S. has a healthy lead over China in number of medals received. With 102 medals to China's 89, the U.S. looks poised to end in the lead as the Olympics wind down. In third, is the currently controversial Russia. China does lead the U.S. in gold medals (47 to 31), however, the red, white and blue look to prevail.

peace,

paul
This is just silly...Real-life Quidditch.

Enjoy,
paul


http://gmy.news.yahoo.com/v/9395800

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Freaky friends

Click on this link to see Yoda, the cat with four ears and the two-headed turtle.

Enjoy...


http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/bestoftv/2008/08/20/ac.shot.tues.cnn

Medal monitor

The U.S. still leads China in overall medals but only by one. China is, however, in the lead with gold medals (45 to the U.S.'s 26) and Russia continues to hold the #3 spot in the medal race.

More to come....

paul

heat packin' mama

Here's one 85-year-old you don't want to mess with. Leda Smith from Port Marion, PA, heard someone break into her home, proceeded to go to her bedroom to retrieve her 22 caliber revolver and then hold it on the 17-year-old as she forced him to call 911. Not the first house to be hit in the neighborhood, Smith's is probably the last for the young man who will be charged with attempted burglary and other related offenses.

See, who says Grandma can't be tough?

peace,

paul

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Tuesday Temper Tantrum

I heard a news story recently about Lawrence Forbes "Larry" King, the 15-year-old from Oxnard, California who was shot by a classmate after he asked the classmate to be his valentine.

Apparently, King had been dressing in girls clothing and had become very aggressive in coming on to guys but that doesn't mean he deserved to be shot. Not only that but the school district didn't enforce the dress code with King because of a California law that bans gender discrimination. Come on, they could have done something and what's more, the people that ran the group home that King was living in should have done something. This boy was obviously troubled and trying to discover who he was. He should have had some help.

This is a tragedy that could have been avoided if the adults in the equation had been doing their job properly. How sad that a life was cut short because of ignorance and indifference.

We all need to be more vigilant when it comes to education and realizing that teenagers are going through one of the most difficult times in their lives...puberty and self-discovery.

peace,

paul

Medal monitor

Day 11 of the Olympics and the U.S. is still ahead (at least in overall medals). Leading China by 3 with 79 medals, the U.S. only has 26 gold to China's 43 and Russia is in 3rd place with 42 medals.

And, yes, Michael Phelps has broken Mark Spitz's record of the most gold medals in one Olympics.

stay tuned...

paul

cool pops

I have no idea whether or not this is real but I'm anxious to try it.

Enjoy....

paul


http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance/search/portable/video/x5odhh_pop-corn-telephone-portable-microon_news%C2%A0%C2%A0

Sunday, August 17, 2008

DVD of the week

Crime tale: Anyone thinking that Oscar nominee Ellen Page (Juno) can only play the young, acerbic, smarter than most adults role should check out the Showtime movie An American Crime (R). Directed by Tommy O'Haver, Crime tells the story of Indianapolis housewife Gertrude Baniszewski who holds teen Sylvia Likens prisoner, tortures her and eventually murders her. Page plays the beleaguered Likens and it's refreshing to see her in such a wildly different role.

The movie is based on court testimony during the 1966 trial and also stars Oscar nominee Catherine Keener and James Franco. The movie has some really uncomfortable scenes of abuse and torture and is a must-see for those itching to play 6 degrees with Ellen Page.

peace,

paul

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Medal Monitor-Day 8

Leading with 54 medals (16 gold) is the good ole U.S.A.
In 2nd place is China with 47, 27 of those being gold and third for the bronze is Australia with 25 (7 being gold).

More to come...

peace,
paul

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

What the heck is it?

Sightings have been reported as far south as Chile and as far north as Maine. Its name is spanish for goat sucker and it's believed to be an urban legend. However, new sightings of the chupacabra have surfaced in Dewitt County in south Texas. Thanks to a Sheriff's Deputy, the creature that got its name because it attacks and drinks the blood of livestock, particularly goats, a new video is making its rounds. The creature is about the size of a coyote and has a long snout (like a pig?). When sightings first occurred back in the 1990's, livestock was found with small puncture wounds in their necks and their blood drained (sounds like a very non-vegetarian Dracula).

Click the link below to watch the video and make sure the lights are on.

peace,

paul

http://www.inquisitr.com/2350/blood-sucking-chupacabra-spotted-in-texas/

More controversy from China


It's beginning to look like the Beijing Games are going to be synonymous with inflammatory controversy. A new ad for a Spanish courier company shows the Spanish Olympic basketball team posing for the picture while making their eyes slanted. The photo, (shown on the left) taken before the games began, appears at first glance to be racist not to mention childish but dig a little deeper and the story gets more interesting. The ad is sponsored by the Spanish courier company Seur but Spain's team is also sponsored by the Li-Ning Footwear company...which is a Chinese company. The company was founded by Li-Ning who was lifted along the top of the Beijing National Stadium during the finale of the Opening Ceremony.


Racist or not, it would appear that perhaps the players should have left well enough alone or perhaps we should all just stop looking to be offended and get on with our lives.

peace,


paul

viral video

Tori & Dean...together again as some really famous couples. This is a bit weird.

Enjoy,

paul

http://television.aol.com/tvtop5/toris-music-video-tori-and-dean/2196201?icid=100214839x1207645465x1200382081

Medal Monitor

The U.S. is still leading in awarded medals on day 5 of the Olympics. With 29 medals (10 of those gold), we're still 3 ahead of China and 17 ahead of South Korea. However, China leads in the gold category with 17.

More to come....

peace,
paul

Monday, August 11, 2008

Monday Mantra

Follow this and you'll be garbage free and smell nice too!

Law of the Garbage Truck

I hopped in a taxi and we took off for the airport.
We were driving in the right lane when suddenly a black car jumped out of a parking space right in front of us.
My taxi driver slammed on his breaks, skidded, and missed the other car by just inches!
The driver of the other car whipped his head around and started yelling at us.
My taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy.
And I mean, he was really friendly.
So I asked, 'Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined your car and sent us to the hospital!'
This is when my taxi driver taught me what I now call, 'The Law of the Garbage Truck.'
He explained that many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger and full of disappointment.
As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it and sometimes they'll dump it on you.
Don't take it personally. Just smile, wave, wish them well and move on. Don't take their garbage and spread it to other people at work, at home, or on the streets.
The bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take over their day.
Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets, so...
'Love the people who treat you right. Pray for the ones who don't.'

peace,

paul