An actor portraying Abraham Lincoln at the Smithsonian Museum of American History is swamped by guests for a photo op.
Monday, January 19, 2009
View #6
The Jumbotron before the Washington Monument at 17th Street broadcasts Marion Anderson singing "My County 'Tis Of Thee".
View #7
Two visitors to the Mall dance with abandon as the Jumbotrons' blare the reggae anthem "One World" performed on the previous day live at the concert "We Are One" by Will I. Am among others.
View #8
What goes up must come down! Workers disassemble the stage at the Lincoln Memorial the day after the Inaugural Concert "We Are One".
View #9
The reflecting pond from the Lincoln Memorial to the Washington Monument. A Metaphor? Frozen and unable to reflect our images in this present dark night of the American soul? If so, don't worry, "There's a change in the air!"
View #10
The crowds reminded me in number of the Cherry Blossom festival or the Folkways Summer Expositions. In composition, they were unique in my experience of nearly 15 years here in DC. At any other event that I have ever attended on the Mall (America's backyard) the ratio of Black Americans rarely reaches 1 in 20. Today, I was thrilled to see 50% of the people were African American.
From utter disenfranchisement to enthusiastic participation may not bring change overnight to heal this nation's deep wounds of racism, but until the wounded both feel and respond to a hope greater than the system--a hope NOT beholden to me, a white guy, and my perceived power and role in racist oppression, change will not occur.
There are jokes a plenty about Obama being a Messiah. Of course, in a religious context that's blasphemous. Yet, in a cultural way, he really is.
It's been a long time coming...and thank God, I am alive to see it happen!
From utter disenfranchisement to enthusiastic participation may not bring change overnight to heal this nation's deep wounds of racism, but until the wounded both feel and respond to a hope greater than the system--a hope NOT beholden to me, a white guy, and my perceived power and role in racist oppression, change will not occur.
There are jokes a plenty about Obama being a Messiah. Of course, in a religious context that's blasphemous. Yet, in a cultural way, he really is.
It's been a long time coming...and thank God, I am alive to see it happen!
View #11
The bleachers and phalanxes of barriers on the plaza right behind the White House. I presume that this will be where the Obama's view the parade.
View #12
"Change: All eyes are on you" A floor mural/message at the Farragut West Metro station alligned so that everyone exiting the station for the Inaugural events can read it as they walk over it.
Nothing like pressure!
Nothing like pressure!
It's Alive!
The poster for Hope has taken on a life of it's own. I find such creative interest hopeful.....not helpful.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Yes We Can
Yesterday, I posted a video poking a stick at the old, today let's shine a light on the present. Our dumb night of the national soul is almost over.
Yes We Can Obama Song by Will.I.Am
Yes We Can Obama Song by Will.I.Am
Friday, January 16, 2009
Die Du So
Something new from Rivo Drei! I love this German band. Their music is so utterly vicseral.
I don't speak German--or much of it; but then I hold tenuous claim to any of the languages I dabble in: Latin, French, Spanish, Mandarin, Italian, Portuguese, English. Yet it doesn't stop me from listening to music sung in or waching films spoken in any of those languages and Moldavian, Swedish, Russian, Japanese, and Dutch besides. The truth prevails. I experience the Joy, the Sorrow, the Anger, and the Mercy. And of all mediums, music transcends the linguistic barrier most perfectly.
Fortunate Friday!
After a long week at work, I decided to stop by a local Chinese Take Out for dinner. My choice was influenced by my need for gas, and so I went to Panda China off of Riggs Road nearest to the closest Shell station to my home. Immediately it was apparent that while it was 14˚ outside, inside this store front establishment it had to be all of 18˚! They had NO heat. I made my order and waited. And waited, and waited....and froze and still waited.
Naturally, most people would have left at the first sign of no heat; but having lived in China, I'm more tolerant of such things--they add a layer of authenticity to the restaurant.
When the food came, the hostess added two sodas gratis to apologize for the wait. And, as if to add icing to the cake, the fortune cookie offered this blessings: "You look pretty". Ha! Don't we all?
Naturally, most people would have left at the first sign of no heat; but having lived in China, I'm more tolerant of such things--they add a layer of authenticity to the restaurant.
When the food came, the hostess added two sodas gratis to apologize for the wait. And, as if to add icing to the cake, the fortune cookie offered this blessings: "You look pretty". Ha! Don't we all?
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Lego Factory Series #10
My latest creation inspired by the current urban buildings series is based on the Polish consulate built in New York City in the 19th century.
What I'm Watching #181
After watching the first commercially distributed gay themed film made in the United States, "A Very Natural Thing," I watched the first commercially distributed gay themed film made in the United Kingdom: "Nighthawks."
And, like, WOW.
The U.S. entry was made in 1973; the Brits weighed in five years later in 1978. The comparison ought forever dispel the notion of a liberal European ethos.
In a nutshell: the film demonstrates 1) why there was a closet, 2) why emulating Judeo-Christian heterosexual mores is like fitting a square peg into a round hole, and finally, 3) how breaking ground in this arena in the 70's was a career killer!
Only anthropologists, sociologists, and gay film buffs need apply.
And, like, WOW.
The U.S. entry was made in 1973; the Brits weighed in five years later in 1978. The comparison ought forever dispel the notion of a liberal European ethos.
In a nutshell: the film demonstrates 1) why there was a closet, 2) why emulating Judeo-Christian heterosexual mores is like fitting a square peg into a round hole, and finally, 3) how breaking ground in this arena in the 70's was a career killer!
Only anthropologists, sociologists, and gay film buffs need apply.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Senatorial Reality Check
Roland Burris is about to be sworn in as only the 6th Black member of the Senate. How is that a bad thing? Rod Blogoavich is an ego-maniacal syncophant with delusions of devine predestination--i.e. a spoiled freaking brat without limitations: Shame on BOTH of his PARENTS.
But why should Roland Burris be a victim when Blogo did his terchiary legal duty in appointing him? Such a legal act may not have been Rod's desire, but after the lights were turned on, he acted with propriety. Assign blame later. The act was and is lawful.
So enter Roland Burris into one of the most exclusive of exclusive clubs--no wonder he is photographed with a shit-wide smile! Who can blame him? In 232 years only 6 African Americans have served in the U.S.Senate and none together to that the percentage of representation has never risen above 1%. While the population of Black Americans has never dropped below 10%.
Here are photos of the 6. Can you name them?
Left to Right, here are their stories in brief:
1) Hiram Rhodes Revels (September 27, 1822 – January 16, 1901) was the first African American to serve in the United States Senate. Since he preceded any African American in the House, he was the first African American in the U.S. Congress as well. He represented Mississippi.
2) Blanche Kelso Bruce (March 1, 1841 – March 17, 1898) was an American politician. Bruce represented Mississippi as a Republican U.S. Senator from 1875 to 1881 and was the first Black American to serve a full term in the U.S. Senate.
3) Edward William Brooke, III (born October 26, 1919), is an American politician and was the first African American to be elected by popular vote to the United States Senate when he was elected as a Republican from Massachusetts in 1966, defeating his Democratic opponent, Endicott Peabody, 58%–42%. He was also the first African American elected to the Senate since the 19th century, and would remain the only person of African heritage sent to the Senate in the 20th century until Democrat Carol Moseley Braun in 1993. He remains, as of 2008, the last Republican senator from Massachusetts.
4) Carol Elizabeth Moseley Braun (born August 16, 1947) is an American politician and lawyer who represented Illinois in the United States Senate from 1993 to 1999. She was the first, and to date, the only, African-American woman elected to the United States Senate, the first African-American senator to be elected as a Democrat, the first woman to defeat an incumbent senator in an election, and the first female senator from Illinois. From 1999 until 2001, she was the United States Ambassador to New Zealand. She briefly participated as a candidate for the Democratic Party nomination in the 2004 U.S. presidential election.
5) Barack Hussein Obama II; born August 4, 1961) is the President-elect of the United States of America, and the first African-American to be elected President of the United States. Obama was the junior United States Senator from Illinois in 2004 and served until his resignation on November 16, 2008, following his election to the Presidency. His term of office as the forty-fourth U.S. president is scheduled to begin on January 20, 2009.
6) Roland Wallace Burris (born August 3, 1937) is a Democratic American politician and former statewide officer in the U.S. state of Illinois. Burris served as Comptroller of Illinois from 1979 to 1991 and as Attorney General of Illinois from 1991 to 1995. On December 30, 2008, Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich (D) announced he was naming Burris to fill the seat in the United States Senate vacated weeks earlier by President-elect Barack Obama.
But why should Roland Burris be a victim when Blogo did his terchiary legal duty in appointing him? Such a legal act may not have been Rod's desire, but after the lights were turned on, he acted with propriety. Assign blame later. The act was and is lawful.
So enter Roland Burris into one of the most exclusive of exclusive clubs--no wonder he is photographed with a shit-wide smile! Who can blame him? In 232 years only 6 African Americans have served in the U.S.Senate and none together to that the percentage of representation has never risen above 1%. While the population of Black Americans has never dropped below 10%.
Here are photos of the 6. Can you name them?
Left to Right, here are their stories in brief:
1) Hiram Rhodes Revels (September 27, 1822 – January 16, 1901) was the first African American to serve in the United States Senate. Since he preceded any African American in the House, he was the first African American in the U.S. Congress as well. He represented Mississippi.
2) Blanche Kelso Bruce (March 1, 1841 – March 17, 1898) was an American politician. Bruce represented Mississippi as a Republican U.S. Senator from 1875 to 1881 and was the first Black American to serve a full term in the U.S. Senate.
3) Edward William Brooke, III (born October 26, 1919), is an American politician and was the first African American to be elected by popular vote to the United States Senate when he was elected as a Republican from Massachusetts in 1966, defeating his Democratic opponent, Endicott Peabody, 58%–42%. He was also the first African American elected to the Senate since the 19th century, and would remain the only person of African heritage sent to the Senate in the 20th century until Democrat Carol Moseley Braun in 1993. He remains, as of 2008, the last Republican senator from Massachusetts.
4) Carol Elizabeth Moseley Braun (born August 16, 1947) is an American politician and lawyer who represented Illinois in the United States Senate from 1993 to 1999. She was the first, and to date, the only, African-American woman elected to the United States Senate, the first African-American senator to be elected as a Democrat, the first woman to defeat an incumbent senator in an election, and the first female senator from Illinois. From 1999 until 2001, she was the United States Ambassador to New Zealand. She briefly participated as a candidate for the Democratic Party nomination in the 2004 U.S. presidential election.
5) Barack Hussein Obama II; born August 4, 1961) is the President-elect of the United States of America, and the first African-American to be elected President of the United States. Obama was the junior United States Senator from Illinois in 2004 and served until his resignation on November 16, 2008, following his election to the Presidency. His term of office as the forty-fourth U.S. president is scheduled to begin on January 20, 2009.
6) Roland Wallace Burris (born August 3, 1937) is a Democratic American politician and former statewide officer in the U.S. state of Illinois. Burris served as Comptroller of Illinois from 1979 to 1991 and as Attorney General of Illinois from 1991 to 1995. On December 30, 2008, Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich (D) announced he was naming Burris to fill the seat in the United States Senate vacated weeks earlier by President-elect Barack Obama.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Tattoo Dreaming #9
From Aztec to Art Deco. It's a commitment to art no matter how you categorize it.
Tarot Time: Death
The cards teach us that death is only a transition. And while it manifests itself in ways that are violent to the heart, Birth is also violent.
After learning of Midge's transition to Ancestry, I got an email from my cousin Trish that her father and my uncle Carrol had died.
And then this afternoon, while napping, I was suddenly awakened with a chilling deathly sensation in my chest and images of Carrol and Midge in my thoughts. Who's to say what that was all about?
Something new is about to happen, something that will replace without challenge what was before.
After learning of Midge's transition to Ancestry, I got an email from my cousin Trish that her father and my uncle Carrol had died.
And then this afternoon, while napping, I was suddenly awakened with a chilling deathly sensation in my chest and images of Carrol and Midge in my thoughts. Who's to say what that was all about?
Something new is about to happen, something that will replace without challenge what was before.
What I'm Watching #180
"A Very Natural Thing" is a movie made at a time (1973) and about a subject (Gay Life) that automatically distinguishes it as anthropologically important. It's been described as the gay response to the 1970 straight iconoclast 'Love Story". And I don't find hubris in that comparison.
The story follows the coming out of David. He leaves a monastery and moves to NYC. There he meets Michael and they attempt a life together that lasts about 3 years before failing due to Michael’s wanderlust. Next, David meets Jason at the 1973 Pride Parade/Celebrations and the process of becoming a couple starts over again. Jason's journey has led him from his first marriage to a woman to wanting a life with another man.
So now Jason is the instigator, but a wiser David keeps things in perspective. The final scene of Jason and David playing in the surf of the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Cod adorns the cover and is an amazingly beautiful finale to the film.
The movie is stark in its portrayal of sex between men. Bold and I'm certain shocking for its time (FORGET "Last Tango in Paris," and "Midnight Cowboy"--they are sad wannabees.)
Of the three principal actors:
Michael - Curt Gareth ~ Was never heard from again
David - Robert Joel ~ Died in 1992 from AIDS
Jason - Bo White ~ Last acted in a bit part in 2004
"A Very Natural Thing" is a very important act of cinema. All three men took part in a statement of personhood that deserves to be seen and remembered.
The story follows the coming out of David. He leaves a monastery and moves to NYC. There he meets Michael and they attempt a life together that lasts about 3 years before failing due to Michael’s wanderlust. Next, David meets Jason at the 1973 Pride Parade/Celebrations and the process of becoming a couple starts over again. Jason's journey has led him from his first marriage to a woman to wanting a life with another man.
So now Jason is the instigator, but a wiser David keeps things in perspective. The final scene of Jason and David playing in the surf of the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Cod adorns the cover and is an amazingly beautiful finale to the film.
The movie is stark in its portrayal of sex between men. Bold and I'm certain shocking for its time (FORGET "Last Tango in Paris," and "Midnight Cowboy"--they are sad wannabees.)
Of the three principal actors:
Michael - Curt Gareth ~ Was never heard from again
David - Robert Joel ~ Died in 1992 from AIDS
Jason - Bo White ~ Last acted in a bit part in 2004
"A Very Natural Thing" is a very important act of cinema. All three men took part in a statement of personhood that deserves to be seen and remembered.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Merry 15 Days After Christmas!
I know....I'm late with this little Holiday Cheer. But better late than never!
Friday, January 09, 2009
Midge O'Brien RIP
I learned yesterday of the passing into ancestory of a dear friend. This picture goes back to the mid/late 1980's when we first met on a summer paint crew for the Fayette County Kentucky Public Schools. At the time she was working as a teacher's aid and painting to keep the hourly wages coming. A native of Wisconsin, I'm convinced it was our Great Lakes backgrounds that cemented our bonds of friendship.
There are so many stories that I am currently swimming through as I grieve. But suffice it to say that Midge tought me 1) The most valuable lesson of parenthood is "letting go", 2) No object is ever more important than any person, and 3) no matter that you have no matterial thing, you can still transform others with your presence.
Tonight I really cried.
Be at peace, Midge, and soar!
There are so many stories that I am currently swimming through as I grieve. But suffice it to say that Midge tought me 1) The most valuable lesson of parenthood is "letting go", 2) No object is ever more important than any person, and 3) no matter that you have no matterial thing, you can still transform others with your presence.
Tonight I really cried.
Be at peace, Midge, and soar!
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Congratulations
to Senator-elect Al Franken and his family on his triumph in the 2008 Minnesota Senatorial contest.
You go AL!
You go AL!
Sunday, January 04, 2009
What I'm Watching #179
Am I getting more sentimental in my middle age, or are the movies?
This is a beautifully told and acted story of two men who need to come to peace with themselves and their relationship to the "fathers" in their lives. Paul Preiss gives an exceptional performance as Nate.
Put it on your Netflick list, you won't be disappointed.
This is a beautifully told and acted story of two men who need to come to peace with themselves and their relationship to the "fathers" in their lives. Paul Preiss gives an exceptional performance as Nate.
Put it on your Netflick list, you won't be disappointed.
Today's Sermon #9
HE TOLD ME
He told me of a river bright;
it flows from him to me,
that I might be for his delight
a fair and fruitful tree.
~ Rabindranath Tagore, 1861-1941
He told me of a river bright;
it flows from him to me,
that I might be for his delight
a fair and fruitful tree.
~ Rabindranath Tagore, 1861-1941
Saturday, January 03, 2009
What I'm Listening To #47
"The Bird And The Bee" are Inara George and Greg Kurstin. I bought this CD on the strength of a totally kick-ass, techno-dance version of "Fucking Boyfriend" that I chanced upon online.
It's NOT the version that is recorded on this disc. Shame, really.....
It's NOT the version that is recorded on this disc. Shame, really.....
Friday, January 02, 2009
Random Quote #100
"To love the king is not bad, but a king who loves you is better."
~ Wolof Proverb, African
~ Wolof Proverb, African
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Random Quote #99
"One resolution I have made, and try always to keep, is this: To rise above the little things."
~ John Burroughs, 1837 - 1921
~ John Burroughs, 1837 - 1921
The Amazing Mr. Roscoe
In a close-up from my sun room, Mr. Roscoe checks out a golden butterfly Christmas gift from my friend, M.
Mr. Roscoe was purchased sometime in the autumn of 2007 and lived in the 2nd grade classroom of Ms. L. She placed him in a cup while packing away her classroom in June, and inadvertently left him in her closet over the summer. He was rescued in less than an inch of water after 9 weeks of absolute darkness and deprevation.
Thoughout the autumn he has lived in round bowl in the Library, and I brought him home over the holidays. Now he has a new home, large and roomy and complete with a source of nutrition.
Mr. Roscoe is an amazing little guy.
Mr. Roscoe was purchased sometime in the autumn of 2007 and lived in the 2nd grade classroom of Ms. L. She placed him in a cup while packing away her classroom in June, and inadvertently left him in her closet over the summer. He was rescued in less than an inch of water after 9 weeks of absolute darkness and deprevation.
Thoughout the autumn he has lived in round bowl in the Library, and I brought him home over the holidays. Now he has a new home, large and roomy and complete with a source of nutrition.
Mr. Roscoe is an amazing little guy.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Nature AND Nurture
Two gay penguins at Polar Land in Harbin, China have been stealthily stealing eggs from straight couples and replacing them with rocks. Brilliant!
But the deception has been noticed by other penguins at the zoo, who have ostracized the gay couple from their group. Now keepers have decided to segregate the pair of three-year-old male birds to avoid disrupting the rest of the community during the hatching season.
"One of the responsibilities of being a male adult is looking after the eggs. Despite this being a biological impossibility for this couple, the natural desire is still there," a keeper told the Austrian Times newspaper.
"It's not discrimination. We have to fence them separately, otherwise the whole group will be disturbed during hatching time," he added.
Well, if straight penguins are too neglegent to notice that their egg is now a rock, I say gay penguins might make better parents. You go "Happy Feet"!
But the deception has been noticed by other penguins at the zoo, who have ostracized the gay couple from their group. Now keepers have decided to segregate the pair of three-year-old male birds to avoid disrupting the rest of the community during the hatching season.
"One of the responsibilities of being a male adult is looking after the eggs. Despite this being a biological impossibility for this couple, the natural desire is still there," a keeper told the Austrian Times newspaper.
"It's not discrimination. We have to fence them separately, otherwise the whole group will be disturbed during hatching time," he added.
Well, if straight penguins are too neglegent to notice that their egg is now a rock, I say gay penguins might make better parents. You go "Happy Feet"!
Art I'm Seeing #34
In honor of the 400th anniversary of the founding of Quebec, the Canadian Embassy is hosting a wonderful little exhibition of maps, prints, and manuscripts. "Champlain's Dream/Le rêve de Champlain" features artifacts from the John Carter Brown library based in Rhode Island. To look at maps drawn over 400 years ago is to discover and admire an art form rarely presented for public consideration.
The exhibit retains a wonderfully Canadian point of view, with many references to "flawed" American players, and "undisciplined" American troops and leaders as it traces the history from Champlain's monumental explorations to the Battle of Quebec more than a century after Champlain's death.
This was my first visit inside the Canadian Embassy, the most prominent foreign outpost in the capital with it's unique assymetrical neo-classic/post-modern style. I don't think it will be my last.
The exhibit retains a wonderfully Canadian point of view, with many references to "flawed" American players, and "undisciplined" American troops and leaders as it traces the history from Champlain's monumental explorations to the Battle of Quebec more than a century after Champlain's death.
This was my first visit inside the Canadian Embassy, the most prominent foreign outpost in the capital with it's unique assymetrical neo-classic/post-modern style. I don't think it will be my last.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Our Latest American Hero #129
Marine Lance Cpl. Thomas Reilly Jr., 19, of London, Ky.; assigned to 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division, Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii; died Dec. 21 while supporting combat operations in Anbar province, Iraq.
"Marine From Kentucky Killed In Combat In Iraq"
A 19-year-old Marine from Kentucky was killed in a surprise attack in Anbar province, Iraq, his mother said. Lance Cpl. Thomas “T.J.” Reilly Jr., of London, died Dec. 21 during combat operations, according to the Department of Defense.
His mother, Gina Bray, said her son joined the military after graduating from South Laurel High School last year.
“I didn’t want him to go. He wanted to go. But I didn’t want to crush his dream,” Bray said.
But on Sunday, Bray said Reilly’s unit came under a surprise attack, and he was killed instantly.
“He was on a mission. There was a hostile situation, and they just hurt my baby. And they took him,” Bray said.
Bray said Reilly had a knack for baking in home economics classes and he had wanted to enter culinary school after the military.
“They used to tell him how good he made cakes,” Bray said.
One of Reilly’s former teachers, Mary King, said she kept in contact with him after he was deployed to Iraq over the summer.
“Needless to say, we have been heartbroken,” King told The Times Tribune in Corbin.
King said Bray was given the news of Reilly’s death at a hospital in Harlan, where her daughter Regina had just given birth.
“She’s had ups and downs over the past few days,” King said.
“He was very, very close with her, very tight with his mother, and so she is really struggling.”
King said Reilly was attracted to the opportunities in the military.
“He saw (the Marines) as a place he could excel and be a leader and be someone who could be in charge and move on up in the ranks,” King said.
"Marine From Kentucky Killed In Combat In Iraq"
A 19-year-old Marine from Kentucky was killed in a surprise attack in Anbar province, Iraq, his mother said. Lance Cpl. Thomas “T.J.” Reilly Jr., of London, died Dec. 21 during combat operations, according to the Department of Defense.
His mother, Gina Bray, said her son joined the military after graduating from South Laurel High School last year.
“I didn’t want him to go. He wanted to go. But I didn’t want to crush his dream,” Bray said.
But on Sunday, Bray said Reilly’s unit came under a surprise attack, and he was killed instantly.
“He was on a mission. There was a hostile situation, and they just hurt my baby. And they took him,” Bray said.
Bray said Reilly had a knack for baking in home economics classes and he had wanted to enter culinary school after the military.
“They used to tell him how good he made cakes,” Bray said.
One of Reilly’s former teachers, Mary King, said she kept in contact with him after he was deployed to Iraq over the summer.
“Needless to say, we have been heartbroken,” King told The Times Tribune in Corbin.
King said Bray was given the news of Reilly’s death at a hospital in Harlan, where her daughter Regina had just given birth.
“She’s had ups and downs over the past few days,” King said.
“He was very, very close with her, very tight with his mother, and so she is really struggling.”
King said Reilly was attracted to the opportunities in the military.
“He saw (the Marines) as a place he could excel and be a leader and be someone who could be in charge and move on up in the ranks,” King said.
Today's Sermon #7
TODAY, LIKE EVERY OTHER DAY
Today, like every other day, we wake up empty
and frightened. Don’t open the door to the study
and begin reading. Take down the musical instrument.
Let the beauty we love be what we do.
There are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the
ground.
~ Jelalu-Din Rumi
1207 - 1273
Today, like every other day, we wake up empty
and frightened. Don’t open the door to the study
and begin reading. Take down the musical instrument.
Let the beauty we love be what we do.
There are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the
ground.
~ Jelalu-Din Rumi
1207 - 1273
Saturday, December 27, 2008
True Colors?
Lord, I've been video crazy lately!
And this one is a commercial that is playing in Sweden for the company founded by tennis legend Bjorn Borg. Serve. Match. Set!
And this one is a commercial that is playing in Sweden for the company founded by tennis legend Bjorn Borg. Serve. Match. Set!
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Oh, Santa Baby.....
A Puurrrrfectly melancholy way to end this day. (What must it be like to die on Christmas? That's gotta be right up there with Adams and Jefferson croaking on the 4th of July!) And who orchestrated this fabulous video with the drag queens? All the details are completely with it, baby.
Mrs. Claus keep a kean eye on your man!
Mrs. Claus keep a kean eye on your man!
What I'm Watching #178
I went with my ex- and his grandmother, my beloved M., last weekend to see one of the latest computer generated animated cinematic features, "The Tales of Despereaux".
It's a delightfully rendered film, not too far from the original book in it's spirit and story.
The most curious aspect of it for me was it's inability to tug upon my heart-strings; something that the book was able to do... Something that most stories do to me! So, I cannot fault this film in any technical way. The voice cast is absolutely stellar. The images beautifully rendered. Yet, it never got under my considerably thin skin....for what that's worth!
It's a delightfully rendered film, not too far from the original book in it's spirit and story.
The most curious aspect of it for me was it's inability to tug upon my heart-strings; something that the book was able to do... Something that most stories do to me! So, I cannot fault this film in any technical way. The voice cast is absolutely stellar. The images beautifully rendered. Yet, it never got under my considerably thin skin....for what that's worth!
What I'm Listening To #46
"The Flobots" out of Denver, Colorado, is a hip hip-hop-rap fushion band with a social conscience that demands attention.
These young artists are amazing in both their raw honesty and their lyrical and compositional curiosity. I believe they represent what is new and good about art: the Word.
Check out their break through track....
These young artists are amazing in both their raw honesty and their lyrical and compositional curiosity. I believe they represent what is new and good about art: the Word.
Check out their break through track....
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
'Twas The Night Before Christmas
And all through the house.....
The children were nestled
All snug in their beds,
While visions of suger plums
danced in their heads!
Indeed!
The children were nestled
All snug in their beds,
While visions of suger plums
danced in their heads!
Indeed!
What I'm Listening To #45
Can I just say it? I love Kanye West. This album (808's & Heartbreak) is his most mature and vulnerable work yet. So much a tribute to his mother, so much a confessional; this remarkable young man does his mother proud.
Whether talking to the president or to the heart, he speaks truth to power.
I can't wait to discover what he will teach me next.
Whether talking to the president or to the heart, he speaks truth to power.
I can't wait to discover what he will teach me next.
My Friend, R.
When I first met R. he was working for a university in Veracruz, Mexico. From their he moved on to co-host a nationally syndicated TV morning show (Revista 4) for 3 years, then it was off to Khazakistan with an international pretroleum company for a year, they recently relocated him to West Lafayette, Louisiana, and then last month to Washington state. I really admire his spirit of adventure! And the post cards are a joy, too! ¡Gracias!
¡Feliz Navidad y espero año nuevo felicidad!
¡Feliz Navidad y espero año nuevo felicidad!
Monday, December 22, 2008
Our Latest American Hero #128
Marine Capt. Warren A. Frank, 26, of Cincinnati, Ohio; assigned to the 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liasion Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Okinawa, Japan; died Nov. 25 while supporting combat operations in Ninewa province, Iraq.
“Marine Slain On Mercy Mission”
An Anderson Township Marine who died in Iraq this week was killed during a humanitarian mission, his family said.
Capt. Warren A. Frank, 26, died Tuesday while participating in a food distribution mission north of Baghdad.
His team came under small arms fire by an attacker in an Iraqi soldier’s uniform.
It was not known if the outfit was a disguise or if the Marine was slain by an Iraqi soldier. Many members of the Iraqi military have been trained by U.S. troops.
Also killed in the attack was a U.S. soldier. Several service members were injured.
“Our son wanted nothing more than to make a difference in our world,” said Frank’s father, Warren R. Frank, in a statement sent to the media. “He was not a movie version soldier, but a man who looked forward to loving his children.”
If Frank was killed by an Iraqi soldier, it would be at least the second time since the 2002 U.S. invasion that a Greater Cincinnati Marine has been killed by a member of Iraq’s military.
Frank grew up in Anderson Township.
He is survived by his wife, Allison, and daughters Sophia Lynn and Isabella Grace. They live in Okinawa, Japan, with their mother, where Frank’s unit was based. Locally he leaves behind his father, his mother, Rebecca, and his sister Sara. Frank is a 2000 graduate of Turpin High School and a 2004 graduate of the Citadel.
The written statement from the family suggested that Frank had done at least three tours in Iraq. It also said that he looked forward to retiring from the service and planned to teach high school history and coach track.
“Our deep sorrow is not in the life we had with him, but in the loss of life we always thought we would share,” wrote Frank’s father.
“He was our son, our brother, devoted husband and an enthusiastic father. He is our reminder that all generations have those who comprise ‘The Greatest Generation.’”
“Marine Slain On Mercy Mission”
An Anderson Township Marine who died in Iraq this week was killed during a humanitarian mission, his family said.
Capt. Warren A. Frank, 26, died Tuesday while participating in a food distribution mission north of Baghdad.
His team came under small arms fire by an attacker in an Iraqi soldier’s uniform.
It was not known if the outfit was a disguise or if the Marine was slain by an Iraqi soldier. Many members of the Iraqi military have been trained by U.S. troops.
Also killed in the attack was a U.S. soldier. Several service members were injured.
“Our son wanted nothing more than to make a difference in our world,” said Frank’s father, Warren R. Frank, in a statement sent to the media. “He was not a movie version soldier, but a man who looked forward to loving his children.”
If Frank was killed by an Iraqi soldier, it would be at least the second time since the 2002 U.S. invasion that a Greater Cincinnati Marine has been killed by a member of Iraq’s military.
Frank grew up in Anderson Township.
He is survived by his wife, Allison, and daughters Sophia Lynn and Isabella Grace. They live in Okinawa, Japan, with their mother, where Frank’s unit was based. Locally he leaves behind his father, his mother, Rebecca, and his sister Sara. Frank is a 2000 graduate of Turpin High School and a 2004 graduate of the Citadel.
The written statement from the family suggested that Frank had done at least three tours in Iraq. It also said that he looked forward to retiring from the service and planned to teach high school history and coach track.
“Our deep sorrow is not in the life we had with him, but in the loss of life we always thought we would share,” wrote Frank’s father.
“He was our son, our brother, devoted husband and an enthusiastic father. He is our reminder that all generations have those who comprise ‘The Greatest Generation.’”
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Today's Sermon #6
(And keeping with my recent Lego theme)
THERE WAS A MAN WITH TONGUE OF WOOD
There was a man with tongue of wood
Who essayed to sing,
And in truth it was lamentable.
But there was one who heard
The clip-clapper of this tongue of wood
And knew what the man wished to sing,
And with that the singer was content.
~ Stephen Crane, 1871 - 1900
THERE WAS A MAN WITH TONGUE OF WOOD
There was a man with tongue of wood
Who essayed to sing,
And in truth it was lamentable.
But there was one who heard
The clip-clapper of this tongue of wood
And knew what the man wished to sing,
And with that the singer was content.
~ Stephen Crane, 1871 - 1900
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Merry Christmas!
This from the collection of e-cards at www.outgreetings.com. And you know what? I couldn't agree more!
Good shit for everyone, and to all a good night!...er, holiday.
Good shit for everyone, and to all a good night!...er, holiday.
Lego Factory Series #9, view 1
Here are two views of the second factory series inspired building. It's a firestation, and the interiors are complete including a rec room with a ping pong table.... You gotta treat firemen with respect!
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
What I'm Watching #177
"Relax... It's Just Sex" is a wonderful little ensemble film about the trials and triumphs of an atypically faithful band of friends. I've belonged to similiar groupings in my life, and in spite of my continuing attempts to maintain cohesion/connection, it doesn't happen. So in that respect this is a bit of a fantasy, too.
And yet, when you think about it, isn't that an almost essential element in any film where the descriptor "romantic" bounces around? The heart wants the world as it ought to be; in this film, a world where all of these delightful characters finds happiness and love.
Jennifer Tilley puts in another endearing performance and her cast mates are more than up for the challenge of matching her talents. I also really enjoyed Lori Petty and Mitchell Anderson's work as Robin and Vincey respectively.
Get this one, you won't be disappointed.
And yet, when you think about it, isn't that an almost essential element in any film where the descriptor "romantic" bounces around? The heart wants the world as it ought to be; in this film, a world where all of these delightful characters finds happiness and love.
Jennifer Tilley puts in another endearing performance and her cast mates are more than up for the challenge of matching her talents. I also really enjoyed Lori Petty and Mitchell Anderson's work as Robin and Vincey respectively.
Get this one, you won't be disappointed.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
What I'm Listening To #44
Sigur Rós defined by Wikipedia:
"Sigur Rós (['sɪːɣʏr rouːs] are an Icelandic post-rock band with melodic, classical and minimalist elements. The band is known for its ethereal sound and lead singer Jónsi Birgisson's falsetto voice."
To which I add at times techno, hypnotic, primal, acoustic, AND fascinating.
Happy listening!
"Sigur Rós (['sɪːɣʏr rouːs] are an Icelandic post-rock band with melodic, classical and minimalist elements. The band is known for its ethereal sound and lead singer Jónsi Birgisson's falsetto voice."
To which I add at times techno, hypnotic, primal, acoustic, AND fascinating.
Happy listening!
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Lego Factory Series #8
My latest inspiration~
My last one took months as I pondered the architectural details and mathematical conundrums present in my concept. This one took only a week. My thinking was far more modular and collective.
Legos are great!
My last one took months as I pondered the architectural details and mathematical conundrums present in my concept. This one took only a week. My thinking was far more modular and collective.
Legos are great!
They're Back~
The deer that is. The doe and her yearling have basically taken up residence in my backyard. They spend their days resting and munching on the ivy -- how desperate for a meal is that?
And I really am torn by what to do about them--if I can actually do anything. Winter's a fine time to lounge in my yard, but spring brings flowers and frankly, I don't fancy my gardens as a deli for the deer!
Suggestions?
And I really am torn by what to do about them--if I can actually do anything. Winter's a fine time to lounge in my yard, but spring brings flowers and frankly, I don't fancy my gardens as a deli for the deer!
Suggestions?
What I'm Watching #176
Is a completely wonderful little movie. It's a man's mans' romance. It's sweet. It's sincere. It left me in a puddle of big hearted tears.
If you can stomach the concept, you'll be touched by this treatment of the theme!
If you can stomach the concept, you'll be touched by this treatment of the theme!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Joy to the World!
There are students you have as a teacher whom utterly enchant you. They are so amazing in their talents, their demeanor, their promise, that you can't help but fall into a Philia-like love with them -- like a secondary parent. J. is that kind of student. So when he gave us a couple of tickets to his holiday concert with a community youth orchestra, my school's librarian and I agreed to go.
For both of us it meant remaining at school late, doing dinner together somewhere, and then making our way to the venue: a United Methodist Church called St. Cecilia's in Damascus, Maryland.
Dinner was pleasent. By contrast, the sojourn to Damascus -- a hellish traverse; Damascus, Maryland is as far away from my home in my county as one can go!
The event was great simply because we both knew how much it meant to J. to have us attend. And it was great because it was really an anthropological experiment of the highest order. Me, the renewed agnostic, my friend, the practicing Jew; trapped in a "Lake Wobegon-esque" reality.
The director was a petite and mousey women in full Mennonite head-dress who was home schooling her own children to save them from the evils of a secular world, and founded the orchestra to give them a chance to play their instruments (an orchestra open to all). Her co-directors were her mom and dad, both retired music teachers from my school district. Most of the selections were arranged by her father, and she meekly reminded us of this ad nausea!
The evening opened with a prayer, and I kept my eyes open out of respect for my Jewish friend, she closed hers out of respect for the assembled mob.
The orchestra was large and their prowess impressive for the ramshackled nature of the enterprise. Time and again, we were encouraged to sing along with the carols. My friend is a Jew who enjoys holiday carols!
After all but the finale was performed, the young director interrupted the show to thank those who helped her. This turned into a surrealist nightmare before we knew it....seconds became minutes, and minutes rambled into "hours" (how long does it need to take to name everyone who has ever done anything for you?) -- at one point I threatened to stand up with the next gracious acknowledgement of something someone supported to make this incredible moment possible--just to see what the assembled crowd would do. We both agreed that this home-schooling mom desperately needs to get out more! And, in spite of our best desires, we slipped out after a little more than an hour to face our commutes home.
I told my friend just prior to our escape that this reminded me of an episode of Star Trek Voyager when an away team was trapped in an alien culture.....
It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas....Everywhere we go....
For both of us it meant remaining at school late, doing dinner together somewhere, and then making our way to the venue: a United Methodist Church called St. Cecilia's in Damascus, Maryland.
Dinner was pleasent. By contrast, the sojourn to Damascus -- a hellish traverse; Damascus, Maryland is as far away from my home in my county as one can go!
The event was great simply because we both knew how much it meant to J. to have us attend. And it was great because it was really an anthropological experiment of the highest order. Me, the renewed agnostic, my friend, the practicing Jew; trapped in a "Lake Wobegon-esque" reality.
The director was a petite and mousey women in full Mennonite head-dress who was home schooling her own children to save them from the evils of a secular world, and founded the orchestra to give them a chance to play their instruments (an orchestra open to all). Her co-directors were her mom and dad, both retired music teachers from my school district. Most of the selections were arranged by her father, and she meekly reminded us of this ad nausea!
The evening opened with a prayer, and I kept my eyes open out of respect for my Jewish friend, she closed hers out of respect for the assembled mob.
The orchestra was large and their prowess impressive for the ramshackled nature of the enterprise. Time and again, we were encouraged to sing along with the carols. My friend is a Jew who enjoys holiday carols!
After all but the finale was performed, the young director interrupted the show to thank those who helped her. This turned into a surrealist nightmare before we knew it....seconds became minutes, and minutes rambled into "hours" (how long does it need to take to name everyone who has ever done anything for you?) -- at one point I threatened to stand up with the next gracious acknowledgement of something someone supported to make this incredible moment possible--just to see what the assembled crowd would do. We both agreed that this home-schooling mom desperately needs to get out more! And, in spite of our best desires, we slipped out after a little more than an hour to face our commutes home.
I told my friend just prior to our escape that this reminded me of an episode of Star Trek Voyager when an away team was trapped in an alien culture.....
It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas....Everywhere we go....
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Random Quote #98
"There are people who have said that I'm being brave for being openly supportive of gay marriage, gay adoption -- basically of gay rights -- but with all due respect I humbly dissent. I'm not being brave. I'm being a descent human being."
~ Anne Hathaway, 1982 -
~ Anne Hathaway, 1982 -
Lego Factory Series #7
This is actually my 3rd creation inspired by the new Lego Factory series of city buildings. It's two buildings in modular construction with 7 removable sections. The corner store with the 3 quarters round copula is inspired by many such buildings here in Washington, D.C. and west in San Francisco. One I remember particularly well is on the corner of Haight and Ashberry.
I designed it's neighbor as an ice cream shop.
I have plans to fit out the interiors, as well. The corner store will be a bookstore/cafe a la Kramer's Books here in D.C.
Never under estimate the power of imagination coupled with creativity and a desire to problem solve. If I could buy only one gift for a child, it would be Lego. And if I could tell adults everywhere one aspect of the secret of youthfulness, it would be to never forget what it is to have been a child. To not be afraid to play like a child.
I designed it's neighbor as an ice cream shop.
I have plans to fit out the interiors, as well. The corner store will be a bookstore/cafe a la Kramer's Books here in D.C.
Never under estimate the power of imagination coupled with creativity and a desire to problem solve. If I could buy only one gift for a child, it would be Lego. And if I could tell adults everywhere one aspect of the secret of youthfulness, it would be to never forget what it is to have been a child. To not be afraid to play like a child.
Thursday, December 04, 2008
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