Light at the End of the Holland Tunnel

The Talented Ms. Ripley

2010-05-13T10:19:00.004-04:00

I know I've been blogging silent of late (more tweeting than anything), but now I've got to brag from the rooftops like a proud mama. We decided to foster an adorable puppy, Ripley, this past weekend. We're pretty sure we're going to adopt her (if my allergies start to subside). In the meantime, I thought I'd share some of her utter cuteness with all of you.

Jersey Shore Left Us With More Than 10 Great Gems

2010-01-28T14:55:00.003-05:00

Yes, yes, my first post of 2010 is about the Jersey Shore. God bless. It was either that, or F

Image by Getty Images via Daylife

oursquare though. Or my Kindle. I'm developing more obsessions in my old age.

I'm not sure I completely agree with New York's top 10 catch phrases. Where's the "stage five stalker", or the "gorilla central"? What else did they miss?

10. "I went on one ride, God bless me, it's fuckin summah!" —Pauly D (13 points but, more importantly, this was a Vulture reader write-in!)

8. It's a tie between:
"Unbelievable, huh, Snooks? It's so hard to find a good man these days. That's why I date women." —Pauly D (15 points)
"Have I got girls every day? Have they not been pretty? Some days no, some days yes." —Mike "the Situation" (15 points)

7. "I feel like this is beneath me. I'm a bartender. I do great things." —Angelina "Jolie" (17 points)

6. "My hair's windproof, waterproof, soccerproof, motorcycle proof. I'm not sure if my hair's bulletproof, I'm not willing to try that." —Pauly D (19 points)

5. "I would give her dick and bubble gum. I would send her a picture of my dick and a pack of bubble gum and say, 'Chew on this!'" —Ronnie "Sweetheart" (26 points)

4. "I told him to put me down because I'm not trashy. Unless I drink too much." —Nicole "Snooki" (28 points)

3. "I necessarily didn't want to bring back any zoo creatures whatsoever. These broads probably smelled the food at the house." —Mike "the Situation" (31 points)

2. "Gym, tanning, laundry. You know, that's how they, like, make the guidos." —Vinny (44 Points)

1. "You know what? You're excluded from dinner, then. You're excluded from Surf-and-Turf Night. You're excluded from Ravioli Night. You're excluded from Chicken-Cutlet Night." —Mike "the Situation" (60 points)

Read more: The Results Are In: Vulture Readers Select Their Top Ten Jersey Shore Catchphrases -- Vulture http://nymag.com/daily/entertainment/2010/01/the_results_are_in_vulture_rea.html#ixzz0dwHOIGEc

It Won't Save the Print Industry, but Not Too Shabby

2009-12-04T10:29:00.004-05:00

I'm an unexpected convert to the Kindle. I love how easy it is to carry several books at once. I love how I can read one-handed on the subway. I love that I don't have to worry about losing bookmarks. I love the built-in dictionary to look up confounding words. And I love that if I forget my Kindle, it's synced with my iPhone, and I can pick up reading at the exact place I left off.

But the Kindle is far from it's ultimate ideal, and the Kindle's current state isn't fantastic for reading magazines or newspapers. I believe the print magazine industry is in for a big hurt, and all the dreams of locking out Google, and paywalls and tablet-versions aren't going to save it -- in whole. But Sport Illustrated's new demo does show how magazines can have a compelling digital life on a tablet, or Kindle-like device.

We'll Now Hear from the Esteemed State Senator from Staten Island

2009-12-04T09:53:00.004-05:00

Diane Savino, the NY State Senator from Staten Island gave an impassioned speech earlier this week in support of the gay marriage bill that was brought to the senate floor, and ultimately failed. Worth 7 minutes of your time ... hope to hear more from her in the future.

Bizarre, Fascinating New Bob Dylan Christmas Video

2009-11-25T10:28:00.002-05:00

I know we're not even postmortem on Thanksgiving yet, but just stumpled across this odd, amusing and catchy new video for "Must be Santa" from Bob Dylan's new Christmas album. What's up with his hair?

A Decade of Layoffs at AOL... Boo Running Man

2009-11-10T18:18:00.003-05:00

Not so fun... This has been going on fairly consistently every Nov-Dec for almost 10 years. Thoughts go out to those effected today.

There is No Excuse for This Being Created

2009-10-21T14:46:00.002-04:00

I'm a huge fan of the Etsy, but some people really must put their talent, or lack thereof, to better use. A blog called Regretsy, catalogues the most unfortunate items for sale on Etsy. The list of recent tragedies include a Lolita-like stuffed cat, Michael Jackson organic catnip toy (no, i have no idea why so many bad ideas are cat-related), and a crocheted "party sweater". Oh my.

Best Slide Deck Ever Explains Health Care Debate with Napkin Doodles

2009-10-15T17:53:00.002-04:00

or so they say. it's actually pretty darn good at explaining the health care debate in crisp pictures and words, without taking too heavy handed of a side. worth a gander.

Healthcare Napkins All

View more documents from Dan Roam.

My Worst Nightmare...

2009-09-09T12:55:00.003-04:00

Scientists discovered this new giant rat in Papua New Guinea. Actually, my real worst nightmare would probably be if this giant rat and a black squirrel had a baby devil spawn vermin.

I'm A Sucker for Time Lapse Videos

2009-09-01T14:56:00.003-04:00

And this is no exception - plus it has a good soundtrack from the Kingpins, who I've never heard of before. Check out this crazy German chap who decided to walk a gazillion miles over the course of a year. Blimey.

The Longest Way 1.0 - one year walk/beard grow time lapse from Christoph Rehage on Vimeo.

How Do You Know If You've Given Your Cat A Good Massage?

2009-08-27T15:36:00.003-04:00

Does your kitty like her fur disturbed? Is your cat a talker? Use cat massage to bring out her best Meow best. Brought to our attention by our good friends at The Hose, find out how to give your cat a great massage. Oh my!

Even Hamptonites Are Saving their Dough

2009-08-20T09:08:00.001-04:00

So Zagat's was nice enough to offer a list of "affordable" eats for the summering set. I've reposted them below. Hmmm... La Fondita.

The Hamptons on a Budget

Dig into a $30 prix fixe at Rugosa.

Photo: courtesy of the restaurant

When you think of Hamptons dining, visions of overpriced lobster salad and long waits for tables (if your name isn’t Stephen Spielberg or Martha Stewart) come to mind. Bargain meals? Not so much. But if you know where to look, prix fixe deals and gently priced meals can be found across the East End.

Barrister’s: At this Southampton American, it’s two-for-one night on Thursdays, when the higher- or equal-priced second entree is free. Choices include a $21 roast chicken, a $24 salmon and a cattleman’s cut of prime rib for $26.95 (631-283-6206).

Blue Parrot Bar & Grill: The celebrity factor may be high at this fun Mexican joint owned by Ron Perelman, Renée Zellweger, Larry Gagosian and Jon Bon Jovi, among others, but the prices can be low. Margaritas are just $9, dishes start at $6 and Tuesday evenings have been designated “Dirty Bird Tuesdays,” when beers are $4 and burritos are $10 (631-324-3609).

Blue Sky Mediterranean Lounge: Newly opened this season, this Sag Harbor seafooder offers a huge paella with a whole lobster in it for a mere $24 (631-725-1810).

Fresno: Wednesdays at this New American, a $28 three-course prix fixe offers options like grilled center-cut pork chops or pan-seared loin of lamb, and every bottle of wine is 30% off (631-324-8700).

Georgica: On Mondays, from 9–11 PM, this happening newcomer helmed by a Hell’s Kitchen vet offers a $25 three-course prix fixe with dishes like crab- and lobster-stuffed Chilean sea bass with tomato scampi cream and pesto mashed potatoes (631-537-5603).

Harbor Bistro: At this East Hampton New American, you can watch the sunset while digging into one of two prix fixes – $19 and $29 – served nightly from 5–6 PM (631-324-7300).

La Fondita: This neighborhood Mexican restaurant offers $10 daily specials like chile-rubbed beef ribs served with rice, refried black beans, tortillas and avocado salsa. Steamed lamb tacos go for $3, and huge burritos are just $8 (631-267-8800).

Matto: The new pizza bar at this cozy Italian spot (now run by two Cipriani veterans) has a huge range of bruschetta for $3–$4, panini for $10–$12 and pizzas for $9–$14 (631-329-0200).

Oso: Every night in August, this surf ‘n’ turfer inside the Southampton Inn is offering a three-course prix fixe for $29 from 5:30–7 PM, and all night on Thursdays. The chef focuses on fresh local ingredients, and meat, fish and vegetarian options are always available (631-283-1166).

red bar brasserie: One of the most hopping spots in Southampton offers two prix fixes, $26 for two courses or $29 for three, available from 6–6:45 PM every night except Saturday. Among the options is a truffled chicken breast with wild mushroom risotto and french beans (631-283-0704).

Rugosa: A half pound of mussels prepared in traditional garlic, butter wine and parsley, or with a curry sauce, are a mere $5 on Sunday nights at this newly opened American. Additionally, a $30 three-course prix fixe is offered nightly from 5:30–7 PM, except Tuesdays, when the restaurant is closed (631-604-1550).

Townline BBQ: It’s just $14.75 for a combo plate with two meats and two sides at this Sagaponack ’cue joint. August also features a daily happy hour, when mason jar cocktails go for $4 from 4–5 PM, $5 from 6–7 PM and $6 from 7–8 PM; accompanying chicken wings are 25¢, and jalapeño poppers and fried mac ’n’ cheese bites cost 50¢ (631-537-2271).

Trata East: Normally very expensive, with fish billed by the pound, this eastern branch of the popular Manhattan Greek now offers a $25 prix fixe all night long, Sunday–Thursday. Appetizer choices include stuffed grilled calamari and spinach and feta salad, while entrees range from jumbo shrimp with fresh tomatoes to grilled sirloin (631-726-6200).

– Beth Landman

Just Left Home...

2009-07-16T11:38:00.002-04:00

Well, actually I've been here heading on nearly 8 years now, but NYC is so vast, I don't think I can ever uncover all it's secrets. But this guy has culled together an impressive list of digital links to make NYC living a breeze. Muy bueno. Just Left Home

Shared via AddThis

As If D.C. Weren't Painful Enough

2009-07-07T14:31:00.003-04:00

DC residents may take umbrage, but I certainly had no love loss for our nation's capital during the 2 1/2 years I spent there. The only thing the city had going for it - in my usually outnumbered opinion - was free museums, good running trails, a decent music scene (all hail 930 Club and Black Cat) and a precious handful of approachable bars (and of course, the proximity to family, and a handful of amazing friends). But now, seems as if the "real" residents of MTV's "Real World D.C." (the 23rd season mind you, lord have mercy) have decided to ruin the handful of authentic bars. Maybe a new spate of bars will crop up in defiance, and all-good-things Obama!

Men Are Such Children

2009-06-22T18:34:00.002-04:00

The web leads us to the most disturbing images at times. Not to be flippant in a time when Iran is going to hell in a handbasket and I heard the most disturbring piece about minority Muslims in Burma this morning, but this site is seriously freaky. ManBabies.com will make you laugh out loud, or maybe it won't.

GET MORE AT ManBabies.com!

Dining - and Drinking - Al Fresco in NYC

2009-06-17T17:27:00.002-04:00

Shameless stealing from Manhattan User Guide, but thought I'd share below in any case. Also, this week's issue of Time Out New York has a list of the best outdoor drinking spots. Not tha

Image by wallyg via Flickr

t it matters lately with all this infernal rain, but there's always July.

Agnanti
Astoria, Greek, seafood

Applewood
Park Slope, American, local farmers

Aurora
Williamsburg, Italian, mellow garden, cash only

Back Forty
East Village, Peter Hoffman (Savoy), burger/roast chicken

Bobo
West Village, American, upmarket

Buttermilk Channel
Carroll Gardens, comfort food, separate vegetarian menu

Convivio
Tudor City, Italian, special occasion

Double Crown
Noho, British/Asian, AvroKO (= gorgeous)

Dumont
Williamsburg, burger, garden and treehouse (!)

Gnocco
East Village, Italian, nice vibe

The Good Fork
Red Hook, American (w/ Asian touches), hidden find

Palo Santo
Park Slope, 'Latin market' food, South American wines (excellent values), rooftop herbs/veggies

The West Branch
UWS, Tom Valenti, meat

Yo, NoVA Raps!

2009-06-12T10:37:00.001-04:00

Yeah, yeah, I know it's been awhile since I posted any of my mind-blowing videos or random thoughts of the day. But I really couldn't let this Friday go by without sharing with you why I think Northern Virginia is so cool.

Matthew Fox Is A Gorgeous Man, Jimmy Kimmel Maybe Not So Much

2009-05-14T12:59:00.002-04:00

Now this is what I call a staring contest.

My Not Quite Definitive Guide to the LES

2009-05-12T17:09:00.003-04:00

Decided to check out this new site Nextstop - a combo Yelp, Google Maps mash-up. Pretty cool. Check out my first "guide" to my very own Lower East Side.

Viral Video Your Way to a Job

2009-05-01T15:59:00.002-04:00

Was interviewing people this week for a content dev jobby job, and found out how out of the loop I am (this week at least). Posting a sampling below:

1.) Popeye's Got No Chicken! Heard this one time and time again. Controversial local news clip from Rochester, NY about Popeye's running out of chicken and closing down after a special promotion. Besides being a lame story, smacks of being a wee bit racist? yes, no?

2.) "Stand By Me" Around The World. As part of a documentary, filmmakers mashed up singing the classic "Stand by Me" around the world. They have a couple of other songs... well worth watching.

3.) Human Beatboxer - A young Japanese teen struts out his extraordinary beatbox skills... hard to believe those noises are all coming from his mouth! Whack!

4.) Swine Flu PSA: Flashback 1976 - Despite what Michele Bachman says, the last swine flu breakout was in 1976 when Gerald Ford was president. And the lovely networks created these very informative PSA. Also, they're hilarious.

Standing Next To The Hottest Girl Ever, But I'm Too Terrified To Say Anything

2009-04-30T16:17:00.001-04:00

The folks at College Humor decided to explore a world where people actually shouted out loud - in public - all their inane twitters.

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

That's A Lot of Legal Copy

2009-04-21T12:38:00.003-04:00

Another amusing Mac vs PC commercial, this time making fun of all the disclaimers companies - and PCs manufacturers - have to make about their products and services. Why am I not tired of these commercials yet? Surely not solely because I live next door (practically) to Justin Long and shop with John Hodgman (who has an incredibly cute daughter, btw). I'm probably just a horrific white person.

Breaking News: Vanity Fair Actually Funny

2009-04-17T10:01:00.002-04:00

Vanity Fair posts this actually amusing intro to an otherwise dry online-delivered Editor's Letter. Does anyone else think big (and little) Graydon Carter should consider changing his Bernie Madoff hairstyle?

Surprise Singer Wows... Famous at 47?

2009-04-15T11:06:00.003-04:00

Something completely unexpected from a singer on Britian's Got Talent. YouTube or someone awful has disabled most good embeds of the video, but worth checking out. So stunning!

Yeah, Boyee.... Southwest Takes Manhattan

2009-04-07T14:18:00.002-04:00

Southwest Airlines announced today that they're going to start new routes in/out of La Guardia Airport. Rejoice, rejoice. What Jet Blue did to make JFK bearable, let's hop

Image via Wikipedia

e Southwest can bring to pitstop LGA.

Not Sure Where the Wild Things Are, But I Want to Find Out

2009-03-27T10:04:00.002-04:00

Check out the new trailer for Where the Wild Things Are, one of the best books of all time. Plus, the trailer has a kick ass version of an Arcade Fire tune, and is directed by Spike Jonze. Do I have to have a kid to go see this? So cool.

Welcome to the Twittersphere... Don't Summon the Fail Whale

2009-03-24T16:37:00.002-04:00

In case you were still wondering what Twitter was... of course you care whether other people know about what you're doing? Don't you twitter-stand?

Auto-Tune in the Office

2009-03-23T12:57:00.002-04:00

Clearly, every office should have an auto-tune mike. Thanks, MKM for sharing this brave new discovery!

Auto Tuning from Casey D on Vimeo.

Stewart vs. Cramer Smackdown

2009-03-13T10:13:00.003-04:00

It was everywhere all week, and now it's happened, but still worth 12 minutes on your lunch break to see Jon Stewart eviscerate Jim Cramer, and Jim Cramer just take it like he needs it. Jon Stewart is mad as hell and he ain't gonna take it anymore. I'll just leave you at the Moment of Zen, but definitely check out the whole enchilada.

Best News Ever! Heather #1 Just Looked Right At Me!

2009-03-12T15:50:00.003-04:00

I might not be the biggest theatergoer, but I'm for sure going to head up to the Great White Way for this one... Heathers is making the leap to Broadway. F*@k me gently with a chain saw, do I look like Mother Theresa to you? Can this count as a Culture Event?

YouTube Funky Mashup

2009-03-11T11:21:00.002-04:00

So this dude decide to make an album mash-up of dozens upon dozens of unrelated YouTube clips and turn it into one rockin' album (with ready made videos). Check it out.

Pela Rocks It

2009-03-04T09:58:00.004-05:00

Great show at the Mercury Lounge last night. Pela showed up all fired up and ready to try out tons of songs from their upcoming album. They sprinkled in standards like "Tenement Teeth", "Waiting on the Stairs" and "Good Foot on a Bad Doorstep", and brought the house down with a rambunctious recital of the title track from the new album (I don't remember the name offhand ... something about rising tides). Pela definitely was influenced by the likes of Bruce Springsteen, and I heard a little Hold Steady (which itself is a major Bruce knock-off), but they can also bring it down a notch with some great acoustic sets, and some major indie rock cred. (My guys and gals at KEXP are big fans). The new horn player - Handsome Bill - was a great addition that brought a new richness to the songs. The lead singer, Billy McCarthy, ain't so hard on the eyes either. An easy manner -- B thought he looked like Colin Farrel, I thought he looked like a retired QB-cum-sportcaster. Either way, they brought it. Enjoy the tunes.

JFal, I Haven't Foresaken You

2009-03-03T15:13:00.003-05:00

Despite the mixed reviews, I for one will keep giving Jimmy Fallon the time of day (though not sure he's earned a spot in the DVR-queue). I mean, he got my boy Justin Timberlake for the series premier, so you know at least he won't get caught with his Dick in the Box. And tonight, he's reunited with SNL Weekend Update buddy Tina Fey (yes, I'm a fan girl).

This Is My Friend, Rob from Michigan. He's a Teenager.

2009-03-03T15:08:00.001-05:00

Rob Riggle may not be on The Daily Show anymore, but you can still enjoy him in a handful of PSAs about teenage driving safety. Worth checking out, because I too can "talk about ponies all day long".

Naked Seth Rogen

2009-03-02T14:54:00.002-05:00

Vanity Fair filmed the cover shoot for their latest issue Comedy Issue, featuring Seth Rogen, Paul Rudd, Amy Poehler, Jason Segal and more. Me likey.

Time to Gloat

2009-02-26T22:03:00.002-05:00

After having been ranked second for many years in a row, University of V

Image via Wikipedia

irginia has officially gained its rightful spot on top of the undergraduate b-school rankings. Business Week has rated UVA el numero uno because we rock and stuff. Wahoowa! Private schools can eat donkey :).

Bobby "The Page" Jindal

2009-02-26T09:22:00.002-05:00

You weren't the only one who thought that Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal came off sounding a little more Kenneth "The Page", then 2012 Presidential candidate. He's got time.

The East Coast of Berkeley

2009-02-25T17:01:00.004-05:00

Excellent NYT profile about "The Gourmet Ghetto" of NYC. Brooklyn's got pigs, pickles, beer, coffee and chocolate. What more could a foodie ask for?

The East Coast of Berkeley
Here are ways to find the Brooklyn artisans and merchants in the article.
BEDFORD CHEESE SHOP 229 Bedford Avenue (North Fourth Street), Williamsburg; (718) 599-7588 or bedfordcheeseshop.com.
BLUE APRON FOODS 814 Union Street (Seventh Avenue), Park Slope; (718) 230-3180.
BROOKLYN BREWERY 79 North 11th Street (Wythe Avenue), Williamsburg; (718) 486-7422 or brooklynbrewery.com.
BROOKLYN FLEA 76 and 81 Front Street (Main Street), Dumbo, through March; starting in April, Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School, Lafayette Avenue between Clermont and Vanderbilt Avenues, Fort Greene; brooklynflea.com.
BROOKLYN KITCHEN 616 Lorimer Street (Skillman Avenue), Williamsburg; (718) 389-2982 or thebrooklynkitchen.com.
CUT BROOKLYN cutbrooklyn.com.
FINE & RAW fineandraw.com.
GORILLA COFFEE 97 Fifth Avenue (Park Place), Park Slope; (718) 230-3244 or gorillacoffee.com.
GREENE GRAPE PROVISIONS 753 Fulton Street (South Portland Avenue), Fort Greene; (718) 797-9463 or brooklyn.greenegrape.com.
MARLOW & SONS 81 Broadway (Berry Street), Williamsburg; (718) 384-1441 or marlowandsons.com.
MARLOW & DAUGHTERS 95 Broadway (Berry Street), Williamsburg; (718) 388-5700 or marlowanddaughters.com.
MAST BROTHERS CHOCOLATE 105A North Third Street (Berry Street), Williamsburg; (718) 388-2625 or mastbrotherschocolate.com.
MCCLURE’S PICKLES mcclurespickles.com.
PRIME MEATS STORE 187 1/2 Luquer Street (Court Street), Carroll Gardens; (718) 254-0327.
SALVATORE BKLYN salvatorebklyn.com.
SIXPOINT CRAFT ALES 40 Van Dyke Street (Dwight Street), Red Hook; sixpointcraftales.com.
SPUYTEN DUYVIL GROCERY 218 Bedford Avenue (North Fifth Street), Williamsburg; (718) 384-1520.
STINKY BKLYN 261 Smith Street (Degraw Street), Carroll Gardens; (718) 522-7425 or stinkybklyn.com.
URBAN RUSTIC 236 North 12th Street (Driggs Avenue), Williamsburg; (718) 388-9444 or urbanrusticnyc.com.
WHEELHOUSE PICKLES wheelhousepickles.com.

Phoenix Decending

2009-02-12T17:03:00.002-05:00

Joaquin Phoenix rambled out a incomprehensible, but trainwreck interesting, performance last night on David Letterman. Heroin or a quick nitrous hit? You decide.

Fatty Fatty Two by Four

2009-02-11T16:50:00.005-05:00

I guess someone else was as disturbed as I was by the nub-legged, porkers being carried around on hover scooters in Wall-E... we're not too far from that reality. This is Why You're Fat is a new web site showcasing fried pizza, sloppy joes on a donut and more. One of my favs - the Double Bacon Hamburger Fatty Melt. Yum.

Brad Pitt is a Basterd

2009-02-11T16:45:00.003-05:00

Okay, I'm ready to forgive Brad Pitt for his maudlin turn in "Benjamin Button". I'm ready to see some Inglorious Basterds.

Barack Obama is tired of your motherfucking shit

2009-02-10T18:48:00.003-05:00

I'm re-posting a fab little find (thx, MC). Presidents cursing is always funny.

Re-post: Barack Obama is tired of your motherfucking shit

If you’ve ever read President Obama’s Dreams From My Father, good for you. I couldn’t get past the foreword.
I wish I had. Because today I discovered that there’s a fairly juicy little subplot in the book, involving one of Obama’s high school friends.

Ray, a fellow classmate of Obama’s, was also bi-racial, and also trying to define himself. But what set him apart was his colorful manner of self-expression. Ray cursed like a motherfucker.

This would all be snickerworthy enough, but it turns out that Obama actually read the audiobook version of Dreams From My Father.

And that means he read Ray’s quotes.

And that means you’re about to hear the President of United States using language that would finish Cheney off once and for all.

***

NOTE: I didn’t actually make these recordings. I found them in an mp3 sharing thread yesterday and uploaded them for your bi-partisan pleasure.

This shit's getting way too complicated for me [0:02m]: Hide Player | Play in Popup | Download

Ignorant Motherfuckers [0:03m]: Hide Player | Play in Popup | Download

That guy ain't shit. Sorry ass motherfucker [0:05m]: Hide Player | Play in Popup | Download

Sure, you can have my number baby! [0:02m]: Hide Player | Play in Popup | Download

You ain't my bitch, nigga. [0:03m]: Hide Player | Play in Popup | Download

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Politically Saavy

2009-02-10T15:43:00.001-05:00

Well, I'm not, but Cousin John is. Trying to help him figure out how to get his political cartoons published. Any clues, anyone?

Sony's Latest Stupid, Piece of Sh*t Gadget

2009-02-10T11:37:00.002-05:00

Almost as many curse words as the Soprano's 27-minute swear operetta, Sony's latest piece of sh*t gadget is available now.

Sony Releases New Stupid Piece Of Shit That Doesn't Fucking Work

Shiver Me Timbers, I'm a Pirate

2009-02-05T10:15:00.003-05:00

Clever parody of the NYTimes ads here, but also a good candidate for the new Culture Event O' The Month. Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory sing-a-long anyone? Doggonit, too bad we're out of town for that one!

I Love Jesus But I Drink A Little

2009-02-04T15:50:00.001-05:00

Oh dear Jesus, this is precious.

Aculturated and Good Read I Will Be

2009-02-03T10:46:00.005-05:00

B and I have decided to do at least one "cultural thing" a month. You know, take advantage of New York City and all. He's in charge of February so not sure what we're on to this month, but open to any ideas. In the meantime, I'm going share with y'all all the books that I want to read. After I finish Samaritan, Omnivore's Dilemma and Beautiful Children, the next up is Lost City of Z. Written by a New Yorker journalist, it explores the 'fascinating' tale of a British explorer who was on a quest to find El Dorado! in the Amazon jungle and was lost to the world in 1925. Brad Pitt has already snapped up the movie rights.

Slumdog Millionaire ... Not Just A Movie

2009-02-02T16:56:00.002-05:00

I was among the masses who thought Slumdog Millionaire one of the best movies of 2009 (there

Image by lecercle via Flickr

wasn't much competition), but it is easy to forget that such abject poverty depicted in the movies beginning scenes are real and heartbreaking. The San Jose Mercury News put together this interesting video showcasing real slumdog scenes. Let us not forget the truth upon which the fiction was based.

Unfriended... by my Sister

2009-01-30T13:54:00.002-05:00

Unfriending - it's all the rage. The NYT recently profiled the phenomenon. And in a week where my 66-year old aunt, and my mother joined The Facebook, my own sister decided to

Image via CrunchBase

unfriend me. What offense I committed, I know not. I'll leave it to the 30 of our common Facebook friends to help me keep tabs on the little lass.

Did You Know? Didjya, Didjya?

2009-01-30T11:46:00.002-05:00

Fascinating video clip about the growth and pace of information and technology (thanks for the head's up, M). It's getting crowded on the Information Superhighway.

Imagine, If You Will... Reading the Newspaper on Your Computer [1981]

2009-01-29T09:48:00.003-05:00

In another edition of the Internet "way back when", check out this 1981 KRON (San Francisco) news clip about b

Image by kla4067 via Flickr

eing able to "one day" read your newspaper online. Back then it took two hours to download the entire paper, and it cost $5.00 versus $0.20 for the print edition.

A History of the Internet... In 8 Minutes

2009-01-28T10:27:00.001-05:00

All the Inauguration Photos That Are Fit to Print

2009-01-23T14:49:00.001-05:00

And a few more... :)

Not Seeking Amy, But Very Clever

2009-01-23T14:34:00.006-05:00

Go Britney (or more appropriately, her songwriter) for getting this horrific song on the already abysmal airwaves. I listened to it 2x and didn't "get it" until I did a little more google research (Cutting to the Chase: If (F) You (U) Seek (CK) Amy (Me)). It's sort of as exciting as it was back in the elementary school days when we thought we were so clever doodling A-D-I-D-A-S in the back of our notebooks, and mouthing "Vacuum" to each other across the classroom. Oh, culture.

I Want to Have Dinner at the White House

2009-01-23T13:37:00.002-05:00

Image by Daysleeper724 via FlickrOkay, okay, I made it in to the Capitol grounds just 5 minutes before swearing-in ceremony, but I just barely got in, and then once I did, I couldn't see anything anyhow. But vote here, so that I and 4,000 or so other lucky chaps can have dinner at the White House with our man BO to make up for the crap shoot which was a "Purple" Swearing-In ticket.

poll by twiigs.com

Hail to the Chief

2009-01-21T15:37:00.003-05:00

Many stories from the weekend for those of you not following my intermittent Tweets and Facebook updates. The Inauguration was a blast, and couldn't think of a better way to spend a freezing cold weekend with 2 million of my closest friends. And now a new day dawns, and President Obama pretty much rocks.

Vote for My Tee

2009-01-17T11:30:00.004-05:00

Image by gordon c via FlickrOkay, can't take credit for the thought (B came up with it), but come vote (here) for our t-shirt slogan on Threadless: "Brookyn = T-shirts". Or, if you'd prefer our other Brooklyn-centric slogan: "Williamsburg: Just because you can, doesn't mean you should" (vote here).Image via Wikipedia

DC or Bust

2009-01-16T17:11:00.004-05:00

B and A and I are heading down to DC early Sunday morning. Trying to avoid the masses on 95 South, we'll seek less crowded pastures. A little Ravens football Image via Wikipediaon Sunday afternoon (I have no one else to root for now that the Giants, the Patriots and the Cowboys are all out, might as well make B happy). Then Monday, into the insanity.

We'll do a little touristy stuff on Monday afternoon mayhaps (feel free to follow me on Twitter: hollandtunnel). Monday night some dinner with CP and MK hopefully. Then some party party on Monday night.

Image by comicbase via FlickrAnd finally, the big day... It's about time. All the countdown clocks have reached their end and a new day is here. Now, the Inauguration of President Barack Obama. I'll be twittering all day long and hoping to meet up with my peeps after the swearing in (in the "purple" section thank you very much). The January drinking detox will be on hold as well (praise the Lord). Good times here we come.

I Swear, I Got A Ticket!

2009-01-08T15:39:00.002-05:00

Unbelievable, I'll be attending the swearing in ceremony. So exciting! Only have 1 ticket, but will get me some binoculars and bring me good camera to take pictures for y'all!

Speaking of Fonts...

2009-01-06T11:15:00.002-05:00

It's a good day for fonts indeed. A Dutch font designer combined his craft with his love of the environment to create a new ecofont. It uses less ink (20% less) to print out, saving you from running out of ink cartridges. Download it here. This doesn't get you out of double-side printing, two-per page!

First Fonts, Now Industrial Design... Give Me a Handwriting Doc and I'm in Heaven

2009-01-06T10:49:00.001-05:00

The same brilliant director who showcased the fascinating world of font creators in "Helvetica", now has a new project out "Objectified" about the world of industrial design. Ah, to be creative.

Dyn-oh-Nine! Rocking 2009.

2009-01-06T10:35:00.005-05:00

Image by dharmabumx via FlickrI can't claim ownership, but I think "Dyn-oh-nine" sums up this very Happy New Year 2009! We're going to rock it. Before capturing for all posterity what I'm going to attempt to accomplish this year, we should do a reality check of last year's resolutions.

1.) Get a job -- Check, though we fear with this economy we should probably keep this on the list, but let's be optimistic for a week or so.
2.) Be more polished -- This was done and done quite well. Not sure what impact this had, but makes me feel good.
3.) Work on my core -- Somewhat accomplished. Early 2008 saw a lot of gym time and late 2008 saw some personal training. I've skimped a bit, but hope to get back on the core training train.
4.) Take a creative writing class -- Yeah, we just missed this boat. Drats. I'm less enthusiastic about this now, but you never know. Maybe I'll re-take up knitting instead.

Okay, solid B/B-. But more importantly, let's look to 2009. My resolutions are slim yet again, but hopefully accomplishable (this is not a word).

1.) Lose boyfriend weight - happy tidings in 2008, brought a few unwanted lbs. these must go.
2.) Fix the problem with my hip and neck - a 33-yr old should not be limping and constantly hunched from muscle tightening. Bring on the PT, muscle relaxers, cortisone and more stretching.
3.) Get more involved in local politics - I went whole hog in '08 with my man BO. It was such a great feeling, I'd like to become more involved in my local community.
4.) Stop falling back on pre-conceived notions - give people, especially my family, the benefit of the doubt. Things that were don't always have to be.

I'm very optimistic about 2009. Nothing is perfect and I'm sure obstacles and pitfalls can pop up at any time, but I haven't felt this positive and content in years. Let's kick it!

No Moments of Zen or Train Wreck Hill Gazing in 09?

2008-12-31T09:56:00.003-05:00

Viacom and TimeWarner Cable are in a bit of a public spat as we close out 2008 after Viacom asked for a raise in its fees for 19 of its channels, including Comedy Central, MTV and VH1. This means that NYC may lose TV-access to its beloved folk heroes Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert, and in almost as big of a tragedy, we'll miss out on the premier of our very own Real World Brooklyn. An auspicious start to 2009 indeed. Thank goodness for Hulu and Boxee's Apple TV hacks.

Damon Weaver Wants to Interview the President

2008-12-31T09:45:00.001-05:00

This precocious 10-year old is on a quest to interview Barack Obama during the week of his inauguration. Godspeed.

I'm Puzzled, Can You Help Me With Something?

2008-12-19T17:01:00.004-05:00

While some might not appreciate the art of the puzzle, or the need to unwind with others, but iminlikewithyou has created a fairly ingenious collaborative puzzle. An easy and mindless way to while away a few minutes, or get through a boring conference call. They even give you a widget to track how much cumulative time you waste on the sight. Oh me, oh my.

It's Been Asked Before, But What the Heck Happened to Mickey Rourke?

2008-12-19T11:24:00.006-05:00

I'm heading to see The Wrestler along with everyone else, but I've just got reflect on what this man did to his face. He was hot back in the day. Now he looks like he got chewed up and spit out by a meat grinder. Take your vitamins, kids (but not the steroids kind) and stay away from the knife. Sheesh.

Afternoons Delight Me Too

2008-12-18T14:01:00.001-05:00

Dammit! Now None of Us Can Make it Snow!

2008-12-18T13:56:00.002-05:00

The viral video posted of the distraught Alpha Chi sorority sister has been taken down by the authorities. Dagnabbit. Now you'll never know her sorrow. Instead, you can watch the response of this particular gentleman who chose to spend 4+ minutes of his life responding to her.

I Just Wanted It To Snow!

2008-12-18T12:16:00.001-05:00

[Video apparently removed - Boo. It was a beaut.]

One More Thing, I'm Paying By Check...

2008-12-16T12:54:00.001-05:00

A worthy successor to "Dick in a Box", Samberg's latest music video explores the musical depth of 80s pop rock.

I Don't Think France is a Country, Is It?

2008-12-04T18:32:00.002-05:00

Oh Kelly Pickler. You're just the gift that keeps on giving aren't you?

See more funny videos at Funny or Die

Jack Black Jesus Says Gay Marriage Will Save The Economy!

2008-12-03T14:31:00.001-05:00

... and I believe him! Or at least believe that the Prop 8 ban was ridiculous. Let's all do something about it. Join the Impact!

See more Jack Black videos at Funny or Die

And This is Why I Left DC...

2008-11-25T16:00:00.002-05:00

The Daily Beast pulled together the "hottest" members of Obama's transition team. No wonder I ran from DC, if this is the best they have to offer. Lord, Almighty.

Do Me Baby?

2008-11-20T11:27:00.003-05:00

This new site claims to be able to analyze a blog and spit out what kind of blog it is. Typealyzer says that Holland Tunnel is a Doer:

ESTP - The Doers

The active and play-ful type. They are especially attuned to people and things around them and often full of energy, talking, joking and engaging in physical out-door activities.

The Doers are happiest with action-filled work which craves their full attention and focus. They might be very impulsive and more keen on starting something new than following it through. They might have a problem with sitting still or remaining inactive for any period of time.

November's Raining Some Good Tunes

2008-11-17T19:51:00.006-05:00

It's New Music Monday and I thought I'd share with you some hot new bands. Check out DC's own Middle Distance Runner, CMJ stars the Spinto Band, and some other highly recommended song spinners: the Muslims, Passion Pit, Tobacco and Delta Spirit.

Broccoli Haters No More

2008-11-10T16:12:00.002-05:00

How could anyone hate broccoli when prepared like this? Hmmm... yummy. Damn skippy.

Craig Koketsu’s Broccoli & Cheetos

FOR THE BROCCOLI
3 large heads of broccoli, stems peeled and cut into 1/4-inch discs; florets cut into small pieces
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 teaspoon red chile flakes
3 tablespoons butter
Salt to taste

FOR THE CHEESE SAUCE
1 quart heavy cream
2 tablespoons chopped shallots
2 tablespoons garlic, chopped
10 black peppercorns
1 bay leaf
2 cups aged Gouda, grated
1 cup Parmesan, grated
Salt to taste
1/2 9-ounce bag of Crunchy Cheetos

FOR THE BROCCOLI: Blanch florets and stems in boiling salted water for 3 minutes. Remove and shock in ice water. Cool and drain. Place large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, garlic, and chile flakes and sweat, being careful not to brown garlic. Add butter and melt fully into oil. (1) When the butter and oil begin to bubble, add broccoli and sauté until heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and reserve broccoli on a paper-towel-lined plate. FOR THE CHEESE SAUCE: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, reduce cream with shallots, garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaf until it thickly coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and whisk in cheeses until fully melted. Adjust seasoning with salt. (2) Strain sauce through fine-mesh strainer and keep warm in a bain-marie. Crush the Cheetos in the bag into pebble-size bits with a rolling pin. to serve: Pour warm sauce into a large serving dish. Arrange broccoli on top of sauce. (3) Top with crushed Cheetos. Serves 6 to 8.

Its.A.New.Day

2008-11-10T10:59:00.001-05:00

November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, So Get Aware!

2008-11-08T18:35:00.004-05:00

November is the annual Pancreatic Cancer Awareness month, so this year, in honor of my father, my family is raising money once again for PanCAN... oh, and running a little Turkey Trot 5K before consuming mass quantities of cooked bird and carbs. You can donate here. Gobble, gobble.

Obsession Overhaul - From Obama to Puppies?

2008-11-07T17:56:00.001-05:00

Okay, probably not, but I do think its odd that this live stream of puppies sleeping (at least for the 15 seconds I could manage to watch) has become a sensation.

My Life Is Now Pathetic and Meaningless

2008-11-06T16:59:00.001-05:00

Obama Win Causes Obsessive Supporters To Realize How Empty Their Lives Are

The New Blue

2008-11-06T12:06:00.003-05:00

Check out NYTime's interactive map of how the country shifted blue in this year's election compared to 2004. (The bluer areas denote a shift to the Democratic side of the ticket, red is a shift right to the Republicans).

Partying in the Streets of San Fran

2008-11-06T10:23:00.003-05:00

The San Franciscans were overjoyed on Tuesday night after the election was one by President-Elect Barack Obama. I don't have video of the craziness in the Big Apple, but they were cheering louder than they did when the Giants won the Superbowl!

Who Let the Dogs Out?

2008-11-06T09:22:00.001-05:00

All's I Gots to Say is....

2008-11-05T17:13:00.003-05:00

YES WE DID!!!

President-Elect Barack Hussein Obama!

You Don't Need to Boo, You Just Have to Vote!

2008-11-04T11:29:00.005-05:00

My heart goes out to Barack Obama, and his family, who on the precipice of this great moment in history, has to deal with the loss of his beloved grandmother. God Bless!

Who Knew Palin Was a Star Trek Fan?

2008-11-03T12:44:00.003-05:00

At a campaign rally in Ohio today, Sarah Palin commented on Obama and a recently released tape of him speaking to the San Francisco Chronicle about the coal industry:

“And there must be something about San Francisco and he because it’s like I heard on Fox News today, it’s like a truth serum where when he’s there, he seems to be more candid, and remember it was there that he talked about, there you go, the bitter clingers, the cling-ons, all of us, I guess, you know holding on to religion and guns and, um, so something about he being there in San Francisco."

Doggone Good

2008-10-31T10:54:00.002-04:00

Setting up my Apple TV yesterday (finally), started watching this podcast from All Songs Considered. I'm really digging the Dr. Dog. Check em out their set.

A Message from Joe Case-Pack

2008-10-31T10:22:00.001-04:00

See more Thomas Haden Church videos at Funny or Die

Don't Let Up, Pedal Hard Through the End

2008-10-31T10:08:00.002-04:00

Obama's Most Important Endorsement Yet

2008-10-30T14:44:00.000-04:00

The Vet Who Did Not Vet

2008-10-24T15:01:00.002-04:00

Bless dear Andrew Sullivan for posting such a treasure trove of bits and bobs in these waning days of the election.

Forget Being Gramatically Correct, Why Can't This Woman Speak in Complete Sentences?!

2008-10-24T12:30:00.003-04:00

Sarah Palin explaining to Sean Hannity how the RNC didn't really buy *her* $150,000 worth of clothes that they in fact bought for her (from Fox News):

This evening when Sean Hannity interviewed the Alaska governor, she explained the purchases.

“The RNC spending money on clothes–those clothes are not my property. We had three days of using clothes that the RNC purchased. If people knew how Todd and I and our kids shop so frugally. My favorite shop is a consignment shop in Anchorage, Alaska called Out of the Closet and my shoe store is called Shoe Fly in Juneau, Alaska. It is not a you know–it is not 5th Avenue type of shopping.” Palin said, “But RNC purchasing some clothes that are either returned or they are going to charity. It is not my property.”

You Heard It Here First... A Vote for John McCain, Is A Vote for George W. Bush

2008-10-24T10:12:00.001-04:00

McCain Attack Ads, Reinvented

2008-10-23T09:29:00.000-04:00

Vote for Hope, Hip-Hop Style

2008-10-22T12:03:00.000-04:00

Thanks to KJ for pointing this one out.

Obama '08 - Vote For Hope from MC Yogi on Vimeo.

F*#$, All Y'all

2008-10-22T09:52:00.002-04:00

Last week, Jon Stewart had some harsh words in reaction to Sarah Palin's comments about small town Americans the only real pro-Americans. The other night, he clarified.

Pour Me Some Sugar, Man

2008-10-21T18:16:00.002-04:00

Heard this little ditty from Rodriguez this morning on way back from the gym. "Sugar Man" is a fantastic tune. Apparently recorded by Rodriguez in the 1970s, it was wildly under appreciated - in the US - when originally put out and now it's just been remastered and rereleased. Definitely worth a spin or tune on the iPod harddrive.

Boybama Woos The White Mamas

2008-10-21T18:00:00.001-04:00

West Side Mac vs. PC Story

2008-10-21T17:56:00.001-04:00

It's a bloody fight to the finish!

Two More Nerve Wracking Weeks... Find Out Where to Vote

2008-10-21T17:48:00.002-04:00