August - 2007

Friday, August 31, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Thursday, August 30, 2007

sm coffee (light)
1 hash brown (net wt. 2.5 oz.)
bottle of lager (12 fl. oz.)
2 bottles of lager (*) diff. location
2 bottles of lager (diff. location)
2 bottles of lager (diff. location)
sm cup of tomato/rice soup
2 pkgs of saltine crackers (2 per pkg)
sm ramekin of cole slaw
1/2 pickle
sm ramekin of sliced hot peppers
2 bottles of lager (diff. location)
1 mixed med (cherry/coke) "slushie/icee" (22 fl. oz.)
2 lg baguette sandwiches
2 honey hushpuppies
slightly more than a pack of cigarettes

(*) additional bottle of lager


Philadelphia Headlines:

We've got a race!

Familiar Billy-flop

Broom Town

FOUR SURE!


other unrelated randomness in Philly:

1610 Fairmount Ave. (best home improvement store)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 7:13 AM 0 comments

Thursday, August 30, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

sm coffee (light)
1 hash brown (net wt. 2.5 oz.)
bottle of red plum juice (17.5 fl. oz.)
bottle of peach tea (16 fl. oz.)
5-6 sm pieces of fried chicken (wings)
med serving of broccoli/cauliflower medley
med-lg serving of macaroni/cheese
bottle of red plum juice (17.5 fl. oz.)
glass of fountain coke
2 pints of lager (*)
slice of cheese pizza
plastic cup of fountain coke
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
bag of potato chips (net wt. 1 oz.)
ramekin of tabasco sauce
pint of lager (same location)
2 pints of lager (*) diff. location
sm pita pizza (garlic/onion/mozzarella cheese)
slightly more than a pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint of lager


The Fall - Blindness

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:41 AM 0 comments

Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

sm coffee (light) 12 fl. oz.
1 hash brown (net wt. 2.5 oz.)
lg coffee (light)
1 kaiser roll (butter)
2 breakfast sausage dogs (mustard)
2 pints of lager (*)
lg glass of fountain coke
pint of lager (diff. location)
2 pints of lager (*) diff. location
sm bag of peanuts (net wt. 1 oz.)
2 pints of lager (*) same location
3/4 pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint of lager


"Rocks lead to antiquity, water leads one to remoteness. In a garden grove, water and rocks are the most indispensable things." -Wen Zhenheng

know thy neighbor, know thyself



postscript of a personal nature: now know about this blogger... I'm currently in the same program and will also, hopefully, have housing by the end of the year

Posted by Allan Smithee at 7:15 AM 0 comments

Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Monday, August 27, 2007

lg caramel coffee (16 fl. oz.)
1 hash brown (2.5 oz.)
1 plain bagel with cream cheese
bottle of orange/mango juice (17.5 fl. oz.)
bag of cheese curls (net wt. 1 oz.)
bag of nacho cheese flavored tortilla chips (net wt. 1 oz.)
med butterscotch/pecan coffee
sm container of macaroni salad (net wt. 5 oz.)
2 pkgs of saltine crackers (2 per pkg)
2 glasses of fountain coke
2 pints of lager (*)
bag of potato chips/tabasco sauce (net wt. 1 oz.)
2 pints of lager (*) diff. location
glass of fountain coke
2 pints of lager (*) diff. location
pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint(s) of lager


two fer tues (plus one):

The Trashmen - The Surfin' Bird

prolific people temporal lobe epilepsy robert pollard

The Surfin' Bird (42 Yrs. later)

other:

Attorney General Gonzales resigns - Bush calls treatment in recent months unfair

Barnes fans beg judge

postscript:

Adam Eaton and the Bullpen

Why do so many transplants adopt the Phillies?

Posted by Allan Smithee at 12:04 AM 0 comments

Monday, August 27, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Sunday, August 26, 2007

bottle of water (16 fl. oz.)
1 jelly-filled donut
1 lg caramel coffee (16 fl. oz.)
1 hash brown (net wt. 2.5 oz.)
2 pints of lager
glass of fountain coke
2 pints of lager (*) same location
slice of cheese pizza
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
lg caramel coffee (16 fl. oz.)
slightly more than a pack of cigarettes

Saturday, August 25, 2007

1 white cheese on whole wheat (mustard/mayo) sandwich
1 cherry "slushie" (22 fl. oz.)
1 fruit punch box (6.75 fl. oz.)
1/2 peanut butter/grape jelly on whole wheat sandwich
1 apple
2 pints of lager
glass of fountain coke
1 hotdog (mustard/raw onion)
1 pretzel (mustard)
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
glass of fountain coke
med-lg basket of french fries
pint of lager (same location)
2 dbl cheeseburgers (McDonalds)
bottle of chocolate milk (16 fl. oz.)
bottle of lemon ice All Sport hydration (16 fl. oz.)
sm bag of cashews
sm container of Pringles sour cream & onion potato chips (net wt. 1 3/4 oz.)
1 chewy chocolate chunk bar (net wt. 0.84 oz.)
pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint of lager


Sunday afternoon at the Tavern:

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:41 AM 0 comments

Saturday, August 25, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Friday, August 24, 2007

lg caramel coffee (16 fl. oz.)
1 hash brown (net wt. 2.5 oz.)
1 bacon/egg/cheese on toasted bagel breakfast sandwich
lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 toasted onion bagel (cream cheese)
bottle of pomegranate pear juice (17.5 fl. oz.)
can of lager (12 fl. oz.)
1 breakfast sausage dog (mustard)
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
bag of BBQ flavored pork rinds (net wt. 1/2 oz.)
bag of baked cheese curls (net wt. 1 oz.)
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
can of coke (12 fl. oz.)
2 pints of lager (*) same location
1 hot pork on longroll sandwich (mayo/provolone cheese)
bag of potato chips
1/2 pickle
sm amount of hot peppers
sm side of cole slaw
pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint of lager


recipes:

Bayou Blackened Catfish Fillets

The sweetness of the fish lends itself beautifully to blackening spice. Shrimp, scallops, or any firm fleshed fish will work great. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets. The best way to preheat the skillet and the best way to blacken is outside on the grill. Trust me on this one. Heat the pan for at least 10 minutes over high heat. And don’t forget to clean the grill first! You will need:

Ingredients:
1 8-oz catfish fillet per person
vegetable oil
blackening spice (see recipe)

Method:
Preheat a 10-inch cast iron skillet until very hot. Brush each fillet with vegetable oil. Sprinkle some blackening spice evenly over the fish, turn over, and repeat. Place the fillets in the hot skillet, and blacken on each side for six to eight minutes, until the fish is firm. Use a spatula to turn the fish and to remove it from the pan. Plate and serve.

Cajun Blackening Spice

Blackening is a standard cooking technique that depends on two very important factors: A hot cast-iron skillet and a good blackening spice. The skillet sears in the flavor as it chars the spices. The tasting heat of your blend depends on the amounts and types of spices you use. Habanero or chipotle powder will add an extra kick. Here is a basic medium hot blend, although you can substitute a store-bought product if you prefer. You can use this versatile spice blend on just about any grilled fish or meat as well. You will end up with about two ounces of spice blend, which should be kept in a shaker for use or airtight container for longer storage. Feel free to increase the recipe proportionately.

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon cayenne powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Method:
Blend all the ingredients thoroughly. For a finer blend, use a food processor. Catfish in a bag with vegetables, herbs, and beer butter sauce. “En Papillote” is the fancy French term for “baked in paper.” That’s almost exactly what we are going to do, except that we are making our “bag” out of aluminum foil because we’re cooking it on the grill, and paper wouldn’t stand a chance. Preparing fish in this manner creates a wonderfully aromatic, flavorful, and healthy dish. Omit (or add!) butter if you wish. An hour of prep is involved depending on your knife skills, and cooking takes 20-30 minutes depending on the thickness of the fillets. We are preparing four “bags,” one per guest. Serve with your favorite rice dish.

Ingredients:
4 8-ounce catfish fillets
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1 small red onion, cut into thin strips
1 small red pepper, cut into thin strips
1 small yellow pepper, cut into thin strips
4 teaspoons unsalted butter
fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, chives, etc.) coarsely chopped
kosher or sea salt
cracked black pepper
4-ounces lager style beer
4 pieces of aluminum foil, 16 by 20 inches each

Method:
Lay out the aluminum foil. Rub each piece with a little butter. Place the fish on the foil, then top with the remaining ingredients except the beer. Fold in one side then fold the foil around the fish, leaving one side open. Pour in the beer (1 ounce in each bag), close up the foil, and place on a hot grill. The fish should be cooked in about 20 minutes. Remove the bags from the grill and place on a serving dish. Using a fork and a sharp knife, cut open the bags to reveal a juicy, colorful, and aromatic surprise.

courtesy Tim "The Brew Chef" Schafer and Ale Street News

more cooking with fresh ingredients (do the salsa)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 8:21 AM 2 comments

Friday, August 24, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Thursday, August 23, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 kaiser roll (butter)
2 lg coffees (light/sweet)
can of lager (12 fl. oz.)
can of Yuengling black/tan (12 fl. oz.)
1 roast pork bun (Chinatown bakery)
1 ham/egg on honey butter roll (Chinatown bakery)
1 sausage dog (honey butter roll) Chinatown bakery
2 pints of lager (royal/imperial) diff. location
single shot of espresso
2 bottles of lager (12 fl. oz.) diff. location
lg glass of fountain coke
pint of lager (diff. location)
2 glasses of fountain coke
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
bag of pretzels (1 1/2 oz.)
1 caramel coffee (12 fl. oz.)
pack of cigarettes


favorite foreign words:

funkelnagelneu
brandnew
brand new {adj}

funkelnagelneu [ugs.]
spanking new [coll.]
brand spanking new [coll.]

more words later

language lessons continued:

Monkey Moms Use Baby Talk, Too

other:

Say What?

"In one of history's more absurd acts of totalitarianism, China has banned Buddhist monks in Tibet from reincarnation without government permission."

-- Newsweek, Aug 20

Posted by Allan Smithee at 10:08 AM 0 comments

Thursday, August 23, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
4-5 cups of black coffee
bag of potato chips (net wt. 5 oz.)
amount of water equal to med cup
1/4-1/2 pack of cigarettes



links:

Tea Olive
Hole 1

Par 4, 455 Yards

Original Intent:
"A drive that is long and straight ... will be in a favorable position for the second. It is difficult to obtain par figures from any other position."
- Alister Mackenzie, from the first Masters program

Significant Changes:
- Fairway bunker adjusted, 2006
- Trees added to left side of fairway, 2006
- Tee moved back 15-20 yards, 2006

What To Expect:
Players will get the message early that the course will be more difficult this year. It will take a blast of 327 yards to clear the fairway bunker, and the bunker itself was reworked to add a "finger" in the center. Bailing out on the left side is no longer an option with more trees planted in that area.


Pink Dogwood
Hole 2

Par 5, 575 Yards

Original Intent:
"Although this is the longest hole on the course, a well-hit tee shot will take a good run down the fairway as it slopes over the hill. It was one of our guiding principles in building the Augusta National that even our par 5s should be reachable by two excellent shots."
- Bobby Jones, in Sports Illustrated, April 6, 1959

Significant Changes:
- Fairway bunker shifted to right, 1999
- Tee moved back 20-25 yards, 1999

Did It Work?
Nothing has changed. Big hitters can still reach this hole in two shots, and anyone who walks away without birdie feels as if he lost a shot to the field.


Flowering Peach
Hole 3

Par 4, 350 Yards

Original Intent:
"The left hand side of the green is very narrow; whereas the right side is broad. It is easy for anyone to reach the wide portion of the green with their second shot but difficult to reach the narrow end where the pin will usually be placed."
- Alister Mackenzie, from the first Masters program

Significant Change:
- Fairway bunker complex built in 1982

DID IT WORK?:
The bunker rarely comes into play, although Jeff Maggert ran into trouble here in 2003. The shortest par-4 on the course tempts the big hitters to use a driver, but the devilish green is the key on this classic short hole. A well-placed approach is a must here to avoid a three-putt.


Flowering Crabapple
Hole 4

Par 3, 240 Yards

Original Intent:
"The length of this hole can be varied a great deal, depending upon use of the back tee or the rear portion of the forward tee. From the back tee the shot is usually a strong iron or even a 4- or 3-wood."
- Bobby Jones, in Sports Illustrated, April 6, 1959

Significant Change:
- Tee moved back 30-35 yards for 2006

What to Expect:
Lots of gripes from players who will struggle to hit the ball high enough to hold the green. Already the third-hardest hole, historically, the change will force players to re-evaluate what clubs they will carry. More hybrids and 5-woods will be used on this hole.



Magnolia
Hole 5

Par 4, 455 Yards

Original Intent:
"The proper line here is, as closely as possible, past the bunker on the left side of the fairway. It is not necessary to carry this bunker in order to direct the drive into a groove in the fairway on top of the hill. But it is a very comforting safety factor to have sufficient length for the carry should the shot be pulled slightly."
- Bobby Jones, in Sports Illustrated, April 6, 1959

SIGNIFICANT CHANGES:
- Fairway bunkers extended about 80 yards toward the green, 2003
- Tee moved back, 2003

DID IT WORK?
Yes. Players rarely try to carry the bunkers anymore, so they are forced to play to the right, which means a longer shot to a difficult green.


Juniper
Hole 6

Par 3, 180 Yards

Original Intent:

"With the ball stopping either short of this raised area (back plateau) or off to the left of it, it is an extremely difficult job to get the first putt close to the hole."
- Bobby Jones, in Sports Illustrated, April 6, 1959

Significant Change:
- Pond filled in at front of green, 1959

DID IT WORK?

The cosmetic change has had no real effect for tournament play. Putting the tee shot on the proper side of the green is crucial.


Pampas
Hole 7

Par 4, 450 Yards

Original Intent:
"Length is certainly not at a premium here, but the narrow fairway seems to have an added impact because it suddenly confronts the player just when he has become accustomed to the broad expanses of the preceding holes. ... The second shot is normally a steep pitch, often with a wedge, and precise judgment of range is required."
- Bobby Jones, in Sports Illustrated, April 6, 1959

SIGNIFICANT CHANGES:
- Tee moved back 35-40 yards, 2006
- Trees added to both sides of fairway, 2006
- Green rebuilt for possible right- rear pin position, 2006

What to Expect:
This hole will elicit plenty of comments, too. The size of this green demands an approach from a short iron, but shorter hitters could face a very long second shot. With trees added on both sides, finding the fairway off the tee will be a must.


Yellow Jasmine
Hole 8

Par 5, 570 Yards

Original Intent:
"(The green) is completely visible for the third shot and a player who is sufficiently long to get up in two will be able to define the position of the green owing to the size of the surrounding hillock."
- Alister Mackenzie, from the first Masters program

SIGNIFICANT CHANGES
- Tee moved back 15-20 yards and shifted 10 yards to golfer's right, 2002
- Fairway bunker reshaped and nearly doubled in size, 2002

DID IT WORK?
Like No. 2, this hole is still easily reached in two shots. The enlarged fairway bunker punishes wayward drives, but birdie is still expected here by the players.


Carolina Cherry
Hole 9

Par 4, 460 Yards

Original Intent:
"Under normal playing conditions a long drive straight down the middle of the fairway will give the best result, since the ball will reach a reasonably flat area and provide an open shot for at least half the green. The hole opens up more and more as the drive is played to the right, but the distance becomes increasingly longer."
- Bobby Jones, in Sports Illustrated, April 6, 1959

Significant Change:
- Tee moved back 25-30 yards, 2002

DID IT WORK?
This hole still plays true to what Jones envisioned. The approach, if not properly judged, will spin off the false front and leave the golfer with an awkward chip.

Front 9 Info via Augusta

Posted by Allan Smithee at 11:08 AM 0 comments

Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Tuesday, August 21, 2007

4-5 cups of black coffee
3 vanilla Special K crisp bars (net wt. 0.8 oz. each)
sm cup of sweet tea
med-lg serving of pasta (tomato sauce, sausage, chicken, sm amount of veggies)
med-lg serving of lasagna (spicy sausage)
med piece of focaccia/pumpernickel bread
1/2 pack of cigarettes


Calvera - Rare dead star found near Earth












*


Human footprint may be oldest ever found

previously:

Oldest human footprints found

bonus round:

millions of years ago...

Posted by Allan Smithee at 11:44 AM 0 comments

Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Monday, August 20, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
raisin bagel with cream cheese
lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 chicken cheese steak hoagie (10") sandwich
lg order of fries
1/2 pickle (sliced lengthwise)
5 pepperoncinis
2 stuffed (rice) grape leaves
bottle of orange/mango juice (17.5 fl. oz.)
4-5 cups of black coffee
med-lg cup of grape juice
med serving of pasta noodles with tomato sauce
sm-med serving of stuffing
sm-med serving of roasted potatoes
sm-med serving of gazpacho (tomato/onion) soup
1 french bread loaf (10")
2 peanut butter cookies
1/2 pack of cigarettes


Body and Soul

Country legend, career left for dead, rises again

Unexpected Role Model: Live Like The King

Three from Hank III:

Low Down

Straight To Hell

My Heart Would Still Want You

another sighting:

Elvis Presley's handgun has left the building

update:

Elvis Presley's gun found near portable toilets

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:34 AM 0 comments

Monday, August 20, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Sunday, August 19, 2007

sm coffee (light/sweet)
1 pkg of vanilla creme cookies (minees - 6 per pkg) total net wt. 1.2 oz.
sm coffee (light/sweet)
1 glazed donut
1 chocolate covered donut
2 oatmeal/marshmallow cookies
1 pkg of chocolate cupcakes (3 per pkg) total net wt. 3 1/4 oz.
1 pkg of chocolate creme cookies (minees - 6 per pkg) total net wt. 1.2 oz.
lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 hotdog (mustard/raw onions)
lg coffee (light/sweet)
2 lg slices of watermelon
lg slice of cantelope
bag of Herr's Kettle Cooked potato chips (net wt. 1 oz.)
lg serving of deep-fried shrimp (20 pieces)
lg serving of collard greens
can of orange soda (12 fl. oz.)
2 sm pieces of fried chicken (drumstick/wing)
2 bottles of water (16.9 fl. oz. each)
1/2 pack of cigarettes

Saturday, August 18, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
pkg of mini lemon creme cookies (4 per) total net wt. 0.95 oz.
pkg of crackers/cheese (4 per)
lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 cranberry/almond chewy tail mix bar (net wt. 0.98 oz.)
1 apple fruit & grain bar (net wt. 1.05 oz.)
1 oatmeal/marshmallow cookie
1 pkg of crackers/cheese (4 per)
1 pkg of peanut butter kandy kakes (TastyKake - 3 per) total net wt. 2 oz.
bottle of water (16.9 fl. oz.)
1 pkg of cream filled Koffee Kakes cupcakes (TastyKake - 3 per) total net wt. 3 1/8 oz.
1 pkg of vanilla creme "oreo" type cookies (6 per pkg) total net wt. 1.3 oz.
1 fruit & grain bar (apple) net wt. 1.05 oz.
1/4-1/2 pack of cigarettes






Sol LeWitt - Scribbles



Four More For Fun - Mon. Poetry:



What Is He?

What is he?
- A man, of course.
Yes, but what does he do?
- He lives and is a man.
Oh quite! but he must work. He must have a job of some sort.
- Why?
Because obviously he's not one of the leisured classes.
- I don't know. He has lots of leisure. And he makes quite
beautiful chairs. -
There you are then! He's a cabinet maker.
- No no!
Anyhow a carpenter and joiner.
- Not at all.
But you said so.
- What did I say?
That he made chairs, and was a joiner and carpenter.
- I said he made chairs, but I did not say he was a carpenter.
All right then, he's just an amateur.
- Perhaps! Would you say a thrush was a professional flautist,
or just an amateur? -
I'd say it was just a bird.
- And I say he is just a man.
All right! You always did quibble.

D.H. Lawrence




When You're Away

When you're away, I'm restless, lonely,
Wretched, bored, dejected; only
Here's the rub, my darling dear,
I feel the same when you are near.

Samuel Hoffenstein



A Thousand Years

A thousand years, you said,
As our hearts melted.
I look at the hand you held,
And the ache is hard to bear.

Lady Heguri (translated from the Japanese by Geoffrey Bownas and Anthony Thwaite)



My Tangled Hair

My tangled hair
I shall not cut:
Your hand, my dearest
Touched it as a pillow

Anonymous (translated from the Japanese by Geoffrey Bownas and Anthony Thwaite)


editor's note: the four previous poems are excerpted from the following book (last time, I promise)

Voices

an anthology of poems
and pictures

the fifth book

edited by
Geoffrey Summerfield

published by Rand McNally & Company - Chicago (copyright - 1969)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 9:06 AM 0 comments

Saturday, August 18, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Friday, August 17, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 pretzel (mustard)
2 lg coffees (light/sweet)
1 chicken salad (lettuce/tomato/onion/mayo) on multi-grain bread sandwich
1/2 pickle (sliced lengthwise)
2 pepperoncinis
1 stuffed (rice) grape leaf
bag of nacho cheese flavored tortilla chips (net wt. 1 oz.) sm-med plastic container of watermelon chunks (net wt.0.64 lbs)
lg serving (10-12 pieces) of various calif. sushi (salmon/crab/uni/avocado) rolls
med amount (8-10) of black/green olives
1 fruit & grain (apple) bar (net wt. 1.05 oz.)
1 cranberry/almond chewy trail mix bar (net wt. 0.98 oz.)
2nd lg serving (10-12 pieces) of various calif. sushi (salmon/crab/uni/avocado) rolls
bottle of water (16.9 fl. oz.)
1 tunafish on white bread sancwich
1 ham/cheese/mustard on whole wheat bread sandwich 1/2 pack of cigarettes


Schnabel Saturday:




Julian Schnabel - Blue Japanese Painting No. 3


Julian Schnabel, Hat Full of Rain, 1996


Image: Julian Schnabel, Untitled (Los Patos del Buen Retiro), 1991, oil, gesso on velvet, 457 x 457 cm

personal note:

While living in Manhattan years ago spotted Schnabel twice, both times at galleries. The first sighting was at a group show being held at Tony Shafrazi Gallery. Schnabel was unshaven, wearing workboots and a sarong. He also had a bandana tied around his neck. Total mix-match. Had a laugh at that (but in a good way).

The second time I saw Schnabel was at Pace gallery where he was giving Francesco Clemente a tour of the "Fox Farm" painting series. Schnabel was very animated and used many sweeping gestures with his arms and hands while explaining/describing the pieces. Clemente was very silent while taking in the artwork just sort of nodding his head.

bonus round:

humorous restaurant review

Posted by Allan Smithee at 11:37 AM 0 comments

Friday, August 17, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Thursday, August 16, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 pretzel (mustard)
extra sm mocha coffee
sm cup of sweet tea
1 bowl of white rice topped with chicken/gravy
1 white cheese/tabasco sauce/mayo on white bread sandwich
sm bottle of water (8 fl. oz.)
1 turkey/mustard on white bread sandwich
sm cup of grape kool-aid
sm cup of mashed potatoes (tabasco sauce)
1/4-1/2 pack of cigarettes


Mail Art


more:

Future Songs (mail and virtual exhibition / non event) by Sean Dack


other:

reading suggestion from the pavement mailing list...

"I did just finish James Loewen's _Lies Across America_. Loewen's books can not be recommended highly enough."

Posted by Allan Smithee at 11:10 AM 0 comments

Thursday, August 16, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

August 15, 2007

bottle of water (16.9 fl. oz.)
1 peanut butter/grape jelly on white bread sandwich
1 pkg of crackers/peanut butter (6 per) total net wt. 1.38 oz.
1 can of bite size herring (fish steaks) in mustard sauce (net wt. 3.75 oz.)
med size mixed bag of triscuits/whole wheat thin crackers
sm bag of grapes
1 white cheese stick snackable
1 peach
med serving of white rice topped with curried chicken
med serving of chicken/noodle casserole
1/4-1/2 pack of cigarettes


good writing:

"Swaying on the district line going West along the Thames, a large man with skin greyed through years of smoking covers a great yawn with a large hand softened by white hair. Opposite, three seats along, a female tourist with yoghurty skin, suddenly finds herself letting out a great sigh of tiredness, too. Her mouth opens and before she has time to realise what's happening, her yawn swallows up the sweaty metro air, a nod of communication that she's not aware of. And then I, too, am wide-mouthed, my jaw stretching apart, unlocking a slightly ecstatic feeling I'd rather wasn't public, a fitting end to the silent conversation we've shared. Who followed? I gave up looking, so struck by the battle of the will of the yawn defeating the tired heart of the inner city."

excerpted from Unstrung: Tube Talk (complete entry)


upcoming noteworthy event:

the Live Arts Festival and Philly Fringe

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:48 AM 0 comments

Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

1 sausage dog (plain)
2 lg coffees (light/sweet)
med cup of grape kool-aid
med serving of pasta noodle/veg/cheese/tomato sauce casserole
2 slices of raisin bread
1 chocolate covered cake donut
1/4-1/2 pack of cigarettes


The Grateful Dead:

When a 'polite' girl met rock 'n' roll

the hubby

bonus round

more bonus round

bonus round plus

Posted by Allan Smithee at 1:13 PM 0 comments

Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Monday, August 13, 2007

sm coffee (light/sweet)
5-7 twix (minis) candy/cookie bars
2-5 snickers (minis) candy bars
2-5 milky way (minis) candy bars
5 mini donuts
2 cups of grape juice*
med serving of green salad*
med serving of roasted potatoes*
2 med servings of pasta noodles/tomato sauce*
lg piece of french bread*
2 sausage dogs (plain)
1/4-1/2 pack of cigarettes

*courtesy of Food Not Bombs


Rock 'n' Rove:



Clash City Rockers/Brand New Cadillac

Know Your Rights





The Post-Rove White House

Posted by Allan Smithee at 9:18 AM 0 comments

Monday, August 13, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Sunday, August 12, 2007

2 sm coffees (light/sweet)
4-5 biscuits
med amount of crab fries
2 bottle of water (16.9 fl. oz. each)
1 sliced hotdogs/cheese/mustard on white bread sandwich
sm cup of macaroni/cheese
box of fruit punch (6.75 fl. oz.)
1 plum
lg slice of fruit pound cake
bottle of water (16.9 fl. oz.)
1 pkg of grilled cheese flavored cracker sandwiches (6 per) total net wt. 1.38 oz.
1/4 pack of cigarettes


Saturday, August 11, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
plain bagel with cream cheese
2 pkgs of Oat 'n' Honey granola energy bards (2 per) net wt. 1.5 oz. per pkg
1 bologna/cheese on white bread sandwich
1 orange
lg cup of fruit punch
1 bologna/mayo on white bread sandwich
bag of potato chips (net wt. 7/8 oz.)
1 apple/cinnamon cereal bar (net wt. 1.3 oz.)
1 glazed donut
2 oranges
can of lemon iced tea (12 fl. oz.)
2 nectarines
2 bags of potato chips (net wt. 7/8 oz. each)
bottle of water (16.9 fl. oz.)
med serving of bean/tomato/veg./pasta noodle salad
med-lg amount of chicken nuggets
2 biscuits
sm-med amount of crab fries
bottle of water (16.9 fl. oz.)
bottle of water (12 fl. oz.)
1/2 pack of cigarettes

note to self: currently owe coffee vendor $5 (2 lg coffees, 2 sm coffees, 2 pretzels, bagel with cream cheese) pay asap.




Desiring To Give All

Desiring to give all, to be all gift,
A living giver, then a giver dead,
He gave to friends the liveliness of his head,
Then stretching generosity with thrift,
Pondered if head itself, the clean bare skull,
Might not be saved and deeded to a friend
So that memorial and functional
Might thrive and blend
In an undying fate
As doorstep or as paper-weight.

Robert Francis

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:17 AM 0 comments

Saturday, August 11, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 pretzel (mustard)
lg coffee (light/sweet)
kaiser roll with butter
lg coffee (light/sweet)
slice of watermelon
toasted plain bagel with cream cheese
bag of cheese curls (net wt. 1 oz.)
bag of pretzels (net wt. 1 1/4 oz.)
1 chicken "taquito"
2 pints of lager (*)
16 oz. can of malt liquor (brown bagged)
12 oz. can of root beer
1 turkey/cheese on white bread sandwich
bag of potato chips (net wt. 1 oz.)
1/2 pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint of lager



Rodney Graham - Napoleon Tree

"...and the Oaks just shake their heads."

um, shouldn't that lyric be "leaves"?

more Rush

personal postscript: Happy 40th Birthday to my younger sister! Has it really been 2-3 years since we last spoke?

Posted by Allan Smithee at 10:01 AM 0 comments

Friday, August 10, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Thursday, August 9, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 pretzel (mustard)
lg coffee (light/sweet)
2 slices of watermelon
toasted plain bagel with cream cheese
sm bag of pretzels (net wt. 1 1/4 oz.)
1 (12") cheese hoagie on longroll sandwich (lettuce/tomato/onion/mayo)
2 bags of cheese curls (net wt. 1 oz. each)
med butterscotch coffee
2 bottles of lager
bottle of guava juice (11.19 oz.)
2 pints of lager (diff. location) (*)
can of coke (12 fl. oz.)
2 pints of lager (same location) (*)
pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint(s) of lager

Plastiscopes & Maximalism:

Painter Plus More

Posted by Allan Smithee at 10:16 AM 0 comments

Thursday, August 9, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Wednesday, August 8, 2007

sm coffee (light/sweet)
pretzel (mustard/chinese hot sauce)
3 lg coffees (light/sweet)
toasted plain bagel with cream cheese
sm cup of ice
3/4 pack of cigarettes


101 Quick Meals? Make It An Even 111 by Mark Bittman (The Minimalist - NY Times)

The Microminimalist (Steven Rinella)


more minimalism:


Allan McCollum - Surrogate Paintings

(plus interview)

bonus round:

Neo Integrity

Posted by Allan Smithee at 10:53 AM 0 comments

Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Tuesday, August 7, 2007

bottle of water (16 fl. oz.)
2 lg coffees (light/sweet)
1 chicken salad on multigrain bread sandwich (lettuce/tomato/onion)
bag of cheese curls (net wt. 1 oz.)
3 pepperoncini peppers
1/2 pickle (sliced lengthwise)
sm glass of tea
2 sausage dogs (mustard/ketchup)
bag of corn chips (net wt. 1 1/4 oz.)
2 bottles of water (16 fl. oz. each)
1/2 pack of cigarettes

melon (recipe):

Bruleed Melon and Prosciutto

Melon wrapped with prosciutto is a timeless classic, but steal a cue from Chef Jose Garces (Amada Restaurant) and brule the melon first. The added texture is delectable. Serves four.

>> 1 small cantaloupe, cut into large chunks
>> 6 slices prosciutto
>> Sugar, to coat melon

1) Sprinkle sugar liberally over melon chunks.

2) Use a kitchen torch to carmelize the sugar. If you don’t have a kitchen torch, use the broiler, with the melon resting just beneath the flame. If you have a gas stove, use tongs to hold the melon sugar-side down toward the flame.

3) Slice the prosciutto to sufficiently cover the melon chunks. Top the bruleed melon with prosciutto, and serve immediately.

courtesy Philadelphia Weekly


more melon (dirty neo hippie version)

even more melon cont. (with a rose)

and finally:

melon (visual concept)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 10:16 AM 0 comments

Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Monday, August 6, 2007

lg mug of black coffee
med slice of chocolate cake
med glass of herbal tea*
1 sm/med serving of green salad*
2 sm/med servings of zucchini/onion*
2 sm/med servings of corn/peas medley*
2 sm/med servings of yellow rice/beans medley*
sm/med serving of potatoes*
1 peanut butter cookie*
1/2 cupcake*
1/2 pack of cigarettes

*courtesy of Food Not Bombs


good writing:

The modus operandi in these poems is fairly consistent: thinly fabulized autobiography meets resonant cultural reference funneled through a provisional form or persona. I'm hardly the first nineteen-year-old to steal from Kafka, Lou Reed or T. S. Eliot - and old Tom, he had it coming. So, no apologies here, no footnotes required. If I had to peg my loyalties anywhere, it would be somewhere on the bleaker corner of John Ashbery's surrealist side, close company with Charles Simic, James Tate, and co., always with an envious eye on Frank O'Hara, that marvelous swimmer. Oh, and Homer, too. Nothing in particular, but I often think it would be nice if someone compared my small poems favorable to Homer. A grad student can dream, can't he?

Timothy Carmody, July 2007

excerpted (partial) Introduction from The Bridge And The River by Timothy Carmody

e-chapbook of poetry/intro text

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:55 AM 0 comments

Monday, August 6, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Sunday, August 5, 2007

2 sm coffees (light/sweet)
2 glazed donuts
lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 sm york peppermint candy
1 sm grape starburst square candy
sm amount of pasta/tomato sauce
med amount of freshly made apple sauce
3 bottles of water (12 fl. oz. each)
small bag of mini ritz crackers with peanut butter
2 peanut butter/jelly on white bread sandwiches
sm amount of french fries
sm green salad (vinegarette dressing)
1/2 pack of cigarettes


Saturday, August 4, 2007

sm coffee (light/sweet)
1 pretzel (mustard/chinese hot sauce)
med butterscotch coffee (light/sweet)
1 bottle of "Philly Tap" water
bag of chex mix traditional (net wt. 1.75 oz.)
2 oats 'n' honey granola bars (total net wt. 1.5 oz.)
lg peanut butter cookie
sm serving of fish'n'chips
sm side of macaroni salad
1 fruit & nut chewy trail mix bar (net wt. 1.2 oz.)
1 pkg crackers with peanut butter (6 per) total net wt. 1 1/2 oz.
bag of chex mix traditional (net wt. 1.75 oz.)
1 chocolate chip granola bar (net wt. 0.84 oz.)
3 pkgs of crackers with peanut butter (6 per) total net wt. per pkg - 1 1/2 oz.
2 pkgs of soft oatmeal cookies (2 per) net wt per pkg 2 3/4 oz.
2 oats 'n' honey granola bars (total net wt. 1.5 oz.)
2 bottles of water (net wt. 16 fl. oz.)
1/2 pack of cigarettes



"Former General Electric CEO Jack Welch's legendary leadership was masterful and dramatic"

"Leadership is the critical piece not the mythical leader - Jack Welch [GE] or Herb Keller [Southwest Airlines]. Those are fewer and farther between these days. This is about walking the talk, being honest and above-board, being human. And on the flipside, having those business results." Mallary Tytel, president of Healthy Workplaces.

excerpted from Best in the business (Trend #1: Confidence in leadership) by Beth Miller - The News Journal (Sunday News Journal, July 29, 2007 - page BB6)


personal note from Allan Smithee (editor of Automotive Acne):

What a crock of shit. I know for a fact Jack Welch is just a cheap S.O.B. I watered and maintained his house plants twice a week for 2-3 years (Manhattan residence - Waldorf Astoria) and never once did he or his wife give the housekeeper a X-mas bonus or tip.


belated news: winning dish for the Second Annual PA Preferred Best Chef of Pennsylvania and it Countryside Regional was (1st plate) pan-seared swordfish served on a bed of argula with a pickled poblano/onion dressing. Entree: pan-seared duck breast with a raspberry/anchovy sauce topped with a fried egg yolk and smashed red skin potatoes with truffle oil. Fried sage leaves were the garnish.

Congrats to Blake Joffe, Head Chef of Bar Ferdinand who received $500 and will now compete in the State Championship early next year. (info via Weekly Press, Aug. 1, 2007)

click here for biographies and photos of competing chefs

other:

barely a column

Posted by Allan Smithee at 8:45 AM 0 comments

Saturday, August 4, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Friday, August 3, 2007

bottle of peach/watermelon juice (16 fl. oz.)
can of orange soda (12 fl. oz.)
bacon cheeseburger (lettuce/tomato/onion/mustard)
1/2 pickle (sliced length wise)
2-3 pepperoncinis
sm bag of nacho cheese flavored tortilla chips
bottle of carbonated fruit punch (16 fl. oz.)
single vanilla "softie" ice cream cone
2 pints of lager
bag of baked cheese curls (net wt. 1 oz.)
bag of bbq pork rinds (net wt. 1/2 oz.)
bag of honey roasted peanuts (net wt. 2 oz.)
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
2 pints of lager (diff. location) (*)
pint of lager (diff. location)
slightly more than a pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint of lager


Masters of 'Spring' Theory

Hidden In Plame View

"I've got five minutes to get it from the ice cream machine to the freezer." Chef Frank Morales of Rustico Restaurant (plus other recipes)

Masters of More

Posted by Allan Smithee at 7:09 AM 0 comments

Friday, August 3, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Thursday, August 2, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 bag of cheese curls (net wt 1 oz.)
1 bag of pretzels (net wt. 1 1/4 oz.)
1 can of orange soda (12 fl. oz.)
1 hotdog sausage/sweet butter glazed roll (chinatown bakery)
1 roasted pork bun (chinatown bakery)
1 ham/egg on sweet butter glazed roll (chinatown bakery)
2 pints of lager (royal/imperial) (*)
single shot of espresso
2 bottles of lager (*)
2 pints of lager (diff. location) (*)
glass of fountain coke
2 pints of lager (diff. location) (*)
slightly more than a pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint of lager


Quotes of the Day

Music Video

More Mao

More Music

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:16 AM 0 comments

Thursday, August 2, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Wednesday, August 1, 2007

sm coffee (light/sweet)
bottle of peach tea (16 fl. oz.)
1 bacon/egg/cheese on longroll sandwich
1 pretzel (mustard/Siracha Hot Chili Sauce)
can of orange soda (12 fl. oz.)
1 bottle of Pomegranate Pear juice (17.5 fl. oz.)
lg coffee (light/sweet)
toasted onion bagel with cream cheese
1 hotdog (mustard/sauerkraut)
1 hotdog (mustard/raw onions)
2 pints of lager (*)
1 glass of fountain coke
1 serving of "fish 'n' chips" plus
sm side of mashed green peas
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
1 plastic cup of fountain coke
1 bag of potato chips (net wt. 1 o.z)
2 pints of lager (same location)
1 plastic cup of fountain coke
slightly more than a pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint of lager


photo essay: Signage, Piss Pool, Garbage, and, More Fauna











(photos - Philadelphia, 7/31/07, early evening)


very good letter to the editor, Philadephia Daily News (8/1/07):

Barnes is history

Because the Barnes Foundation is an art collection, people overlook its important history: Matisse visited and designed a mural for it.

If any city could appreciate preserving history, you'd think it was Philadelphia. We could move Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell to Washington, making it easier for tourists to see more American History in one place. Maybe it would draw more tourists and money. But it would be just as stupid as moving the Barnes.

Wayne Bremser, San Francisco


other: opinion by Phylilis W. Beck, Former Commonwealth Court Judge, and the current general counsel and secretary of the Barnes Foundation


even more lies:

Spy chief backs Gonzales

WASHINGTON - President Bush's spy chief sought to defend Attorney General Alberto Gonzales against charges of lying to Congress in a technically worded statement yesterday that hinged on when the government's terror surveillance program got its name.

Senate Judiciary Committee members have questioned whether Gonzales told the truth when he testified last week that a 2004 confrontation between administration officials had not been about the president's secret wiretapping program.

The reason presented for Gonzales' claim: The "Terrorist Surveillance Program" wasn't given that name by the administration until 2006, long after Gonzales' now-famous effort to get then-Attorney General John Ashcroft to endorse it.

That response came from the director of National Intelligence, Mike McConnell, in a letter to Sen. Arlen Specter, a member of the committee.

(Associated Press)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 10:35 AM 0 comments

Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Tuesday, July 31, 2007

sm coffee (light/sweet)
lg coffee (light/sweet)
2 hotdogs (mustard/raw onion)
1 pretzel (mustard)
bottle of peach iced tea (16 fl. oz.)
sm amount of cherry "slushie"
stuffed pretzel (cheddar cheese)
2 pints of lager (*)
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
slice of cheese pizza
3 pints of lager (*) diff. location
slightly more than a pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint of lager


Letter To The Editor:

Dear Sir,

The citizens of Philadelphia thank you in advance for voting to give our city $0.75 from every $0.99 deposited into the parking meters located in Philadelphia for the express purpose of keeping SEPTA service semi-affordable for customers, i.e., low fares with transfers included.

Sincerely,

(name withheld)
Philadelphia, Pa

postscript: the aforementioned letter to the editor is a response to the following quote that appeared on the front page of yesterday's Philadelphia Inquirer (7/31/07)

"We are not going to stand idly by and watch Harrisburg politicians pick the pockets of western Pennsylvanians to prop up Philadelphia's mass transit system." U.S. Rep. Phil English (R., Erie)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 7:47 AM 0 comments

July 2007 Home
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July - 2007

Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Food Stuff Consuption And Miscellany

Monday, July 30, 2007

1 mocha coffee (16 fl. oz.)
1 hash brown (net wt. 2.5 oz.)
1 16 oz. can of malt liquor (brown bagged)
1 sm bag of nacho cheese flavored tortilla chips (net wt. 7/8 oz.)
1 bottle of Negra Modelo (12 fl. oz.)
1 bottle of Yeungling Black/Tan beer (12 fl. oz.) same location
1 sm bag of hot crunchy cheetos (net wt. 7/8 oz.)
1 sm bag of whole grain pretzels (net wt. 1.25 oz.)
1 sm bag of pork rinds (net wt. 1/2 oz.)
1 sm bag of nacho cheese flavored tortilla chips (net wt. 7/8 oz.)
sm mug of black coffee
2 pints of lager (*)
1 can of coke (12 fl. oz.)
1 meatball/provolone cheese on longroll sandwich
sm ramekin of cole slaw
sm ramekin of hot peppers
sm ramekin of sweet peppers
2 pints of lager (same location)
bottle of lager (diff. location)
slightly more than a pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint of lager


Photos & Food Recipes:








2fer Tues:

Watermelon Mint Gazpacho

Makes 4 to 6 servings, about 1 1/2 cups each

Ingredients:

*1 1/2 to 2 quarts watermelon chunks (1/2 seedless melon)
*2 to 3 cups honeydew (1/2 melon, seeded)
*2 cucumbers, peeled, seeded, divided use
*1 shallot, peeled
*1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced, or to taste
*1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
*1/2 cup cilantro chiffonade (shreds), divided use
*1 cup sparkling water (such as San Pellegrino)
*8 ounces lump crab meat
*Juice of 1/2 lemon
*1 tablespoon virgin olive oil
*Salt and white pepper

1. To a blender or food processor, in batches as needed, add 3/4 of the watermelon, the honeydew, 11/2 cucumbers, the shallot, jalapeno, mint, and half of the cilantro. Blend at medium speed while slowly adding the sparkling water. For a smooth puree, a blender works best. (If you want some texture, blend in quick pulses to avoid overmixing.)

2. When all is blended and combined in a serving bowl or pitcher, season with salt and white pepper. Refrigerate.

3. For the crab salad, pick over the crab meat for bits of shell. Cut the remaining watermelon and half cucumber in small dice and add to the crab. Drizzle with the lemon juice and oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently.

4. To serve, ladle the soup into chilled bowls. Place about 2 ounces of crab salad in the center. The soup can be held for up to 3 days, covered and refrigerated.

- From chef Brenton Wallace, Loie Brasserie, Philadelphia

Per serving: 146 calories, 10 grams protein, 22 grams carbohydrates, 16 grams sugar, 3 grams fat, 34 milligrams cholesterol, 145 milligrams sodium, 2 grams dietary fiber.

------

Soba Carbonara with Edamame, Bacon and Bay Scallops

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients:

*12 ounces Japanese soba noodles
*1/4 cup shelled edamame (fresh soy beans)
*2 cups Carbonara Sauce (see recipe below)
*1/4 pound smoked bacon, diced small, rendered crisp and drained (or precooked)
*1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
*Chopped chives
*Truffle oil
*1 cup dashi-soy sauce (see Note)
*1/2 pound dry bay scallops

1. Bring 8 quarts water to a boil. Cook soba just tender, 4 minutes. Add the edamame after 3 minutes. Drain. Rinse.

2. Prepare the Carbonara Sauce. Add bacon and chives.

3. On low heat, toss the noodles and edamame in the sauce for 2 minutes to coat and thicken. Do not overheat or the sauce will break down. Remove from heat.

4. Bring the dashi-soy to a simmer. Add the scallops, turn off heat and let cook for 2 to 3 minutes.

5. Portion the noodle mixture into serving bowls. Finish with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of truffle oil. Spoon the soy-poached scallops on top and a tablespoon of the dashi-soy poaching liquid around noodles on each dish.

6. Serve at once warm, at room temperature or chilled.

- From chef de cuisine Gerald Drummond, Morimoto, Philadelphia

For the Carbonara Sauce: Bring 1/2 cup dry white wine to a boil to cook off the alcohol. Add 1/4 cup dashi-soy and 1 cup heavy cream. Return to a low simmer. Meanwhile, set up a double boiler. Crack 3 egg yolks into a nonreactive bowl and whisk, slowly tempering in the wine-dashi-cream mixture. Set the bowl over simmering water. Whisk until eggs set at 160 degrees F. (the mixture will ribbon lightly). Do not overheat or mixture will separate. Add salt, freshly cracked white pepper and truffle oil, to taste.

Note: Dashi is a Japanese broth, often seaweed stock, sold in Asian and specialty food markets. For dashi-soy, mix 11/2 cups prepared dashi with 1/2 cup soy sauce. Refrigerate.

Per serving (with Carbonara Sauce): 858 calories, 39 grams protein, 77 grams carbohydrates, 3 grams sugar, 44 grams fat, 284 milligrams cholesterol, 3,400 milligrams sodium, 4 grams dietary fiber.

------

Watermelon with Feta

Ingredients:

*2 pieces peeled watermelon cut in rectangular pieces
*3 oz. Dodoni Greek Feta
*1 tbs. Ladolemono
*2 tsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Method of Preparation:

Peel and cut watermelon into rectangular shaped pieces and place in center of serving plate. Top watermelon with Dodoni Feta and herbs, drizzle with ladolemono and olive oil and serve.

Garnish:

Fresh micro herbs such as mint leaves, chive blossoms, thyme flowering, lemon thyme leaves, and Greek oregano leaves.

from Chef Jose Andres


recipes via Philadelphia Inquirer (7/19/07) and Key to Philadelphia (7/30-8/12/07)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 7:28 AM 0 comments



Monday, July 30, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Sunday, July 29, 2007

lg mocha coffee
1 hash brown (net wt. 2.5 oz.)
1 sausage/egg/cheese on biscuit sandwich
pint of lager
4 pints of lager (*) diff. location
pint of lager (diff. location)
can of beer (16 fl. oz.) brown bagged
1 serving of steak with side of mashed potatoes and broccoli
slightly more than a pack of cigarettes

(*) additonal pint of lager


more poetry:


How To Paint a Perfect Christmas

Above, you paint the sky
delicate as maidenhair.
Below, pour a little darkness
heated to room temperature
or slightly more.

With a cat's claw in the dark
scratch out a little tree,
the finest tree in the world,
finer than any forester
could ever imagine.

And the tree itself
will light up
and the whole picture purr
with green joy,
with purple hope.

Right. But now you must
put under the tree
the
real big thing,
the thing you most want in the world;
the thing pop-singers
call happiness.

It's easy enough for a cat,
a cat will put a mouse there,
Colonel Blimp will line up
the largest jet-propelled halberd
which shoots and bands and salutes,
a sparrow will gather
a few stalks for its nest,
mister junior clerk will submit
a stuffed file tied with red tape,
a butterfly will put there
a new rubber peacock's eye,
but what will you put there?

You think and think
till the day grows grey,
till the river almost runs out,
till even the bulbs begin to yawn,
you think

and finally

there in the darkness you blot out
a hazy white spot,
a bit like a florin,
a bit like a ship,
a bit like a Moon,
a bit like the beautiful face
of someone (who?) else,

a hazy white spot,
perhaps more like emptiness,
like the negation of something,
like non-pain,
like non-fear,
like non-worry,

a hazy white spot,
and you go to bed
and say to yourself,
yes, now I know how to do it,
yes, now I know,
yes,
next time
I shall paint
the most perfect Christmas
that ever was.


Miroslav Holub (translated from the Czech by Ian Milner and George Theiner)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 2:40 PM 0 comments



Sunday, July 29, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Saturday, July 28, 2007

1 hash brown (net wt. 2.5 oz.)
lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 sausage/egg/cheese on longroll sandwich
1 pretzel (mustard)
3 pints of lager (*)
glass of fountain coke
2 double cheeseburgers (McDonalds)
sm order of french fries (McDonalds)
double shot of espresso
3 pints of lager (*) diff. location
plastic cup of fountain coke
2 pints of lager (*) diff. location
bag of pretzels (net wt. 1 1/4 oz.)
1 med. mocha coffee (12 fl. oz.)
1 bottle of lager (diff. location)
slightly more than a pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint(s) of lager


Did You Know?

"Just 1% of gun stores sell 57% of weapons seized in crimes nationwide."

info via New York Daily News editorial (Sat. 7-28-07)



3fer Sunday:


Ice-Fishing

Not thinking other than how the hand works
I wait until dark here on the cold
world rind, ice-curved over simplest rock
where the tugged river flows over hidden
springs too insidious to be quite forgotten.

When the night comes I plunge my hand
where the string of fish know their share
of the minimum. Then, bringing back my hand
is a great sunburst event; and slow
home with me over unmarked snow

In the wild flipping warmth of won-back thought
my boots, my hat, my body go.


William Stafford



Don't Sign Anything

Riding the horse as was my wont,
there was a bunch of cows in a field.

The horse
chased

them. I likewise, an uneasy
accompanist.

To wit, the Chinese proverb goes:
if you lie in a field

and fall asleep,
you will be found in a field

asleep.


Robert Creeley



a politician is an arse upon

a politician is an arse upon
which everyone has sat except a man


E. E. Cummings



all three poems excerpted from:

VOICES

an anthology of poems
and pictures

the fifth book

edited by
Geoffrey Summerfield

copyright 1969 by Rand McNally & Company

Posted by Allan Smithee at 10:27 AM 0 comments



Saturday, July 28, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Friday, July 27, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
plain bagel with cream cheese
can of malt liquor (16 fl. oz.)
lg coffee (light/sweet)
2 sm bags of pretzels (net wt. 1 1/4 oz. each)
slice of strawberry shortcake
1 Chick-Fil-A sandwich
2 pints of lager (royal/imperial)
1 single shot of espresso
2 bottles of lager (diff. location)
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
pack and half of cigarettes

note to self:currently owe the coffee vendor for 13-14 lg coffees ($1 apiece) and 4 pretzels ($0.40 apiece). pay asap. gave vendor a ten spot this a.m. (Wed. July 25th) will pay remainder tomorrow. done. owed vendor $6. ordered lg coffee (light/sweet), sausage/egg/cheese on longroll sandwich, and pretzel with mustard. gave them $12.40


Architecture:

A home design that considers first the user; A celebration of Charles Eames' birth visits his 1949 home, a modern style far from minimal.

More Architecture:

For Architects, Personal Archives as Gold Mines; A small but influential number of celebrity architects are considering selling their archives as they continue to work.

Moving Along:

Taking a design dream for a spin

Posted by Allan Smithee at 10:40 AM 0 comments



Friday, July 27, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Thursday, July 26, 2007

lg mocha coffee (sweet) 20 fl. oz.
1 hash brown (net wt. 2.5 oz.)
1 egg/sausage/cheese on toasted plain bagel
5-6 lg mugs of black coffee
1 kaiser roll with butter
1 toasted raisin bagel with cream cheese
1 bottle of Pomegranate Pear juice (17.5 fl. oz.)
1 chicken salad on multi-grain bread sandwich (mayo/lettuce/tomato/onion)
sm bag of sour cream/onion potato chips
1/2 sliced (length wise) pickle
3 pepperoncinis
2 grape leaves stuffed with rice
3 pints of lager (*)
1 can of coke (12 fl. oz.)
1 hot roast beef on kaiser roll sandwich (mayo/horseradish) plus
raw onions/sliced tomatoes and pickle on the side
sm side of cole slaw
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
slightly more than a pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint of lager




more fun...

battle of the cover bands:

Behind Blue Eyes/Faith (reigning champ)

vs

Billie Jean (challenger)

plus explication

serendipity:

Just walked into the computer lab (11:45 a.m.) and the departing intern, Bailey, a (senior) student at Notre Dame gave me a 2-cdr set of John Lennon cover tunes as a good-bye gift. Sweet.



unrelated; bad bonus round:

In A Class Of Its Own:

For Those About To Rock We Salute You!

Posted by Allan Smithee at 7:28 AM 0 comments



Thursday, July 26, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

1 hash brown (net wt. 2.5 oz.)
lg coffee (light/sweet)
plain bagel with cream cheese
lg coffee with shot of espresso (light/sweet) 20 fl. oz.
2 pints of lager
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
glass of fountain coke
2 pints of lager (*) royal/imperial (diff. location)
glass of fountain coke
lg mocha coffee (light/sweet) 16 fl. oz.
slightly more than a pack of cigarettes

(*) plus additional pint of lager


photo essay: 24th St/Bainbridge (Philadelphia)










bonus round:

Stephen Malkmus - Trigger Cut (Pitchfork Music Festival - 2007)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:41 AM 0 comments



Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

6-7 lg mugs of black coffee
sm cup of tea
2 med-lg servings of green veg/beans/cheese/noodle/spaghetti casserole
1 sm pkg of Entenmann's "Little Bites" brownies (100 calorie packs)
box of HiC "Frightening" Fruit Punch (6.75 fl. oz.)
1 bologna on white bread sandwich
1 pkg of Cheez-It baked snack crackers (net wt. 1.5 oz.)
1 pkg of Famous Amos peanut butter cookies (net wt. 2 oz.)
1/2 pack of cigarettes

note to self:currently owe the coffee vendor for 13-14 lg coffees ($1 apiece) and 4 pretzels ($0.40 apiece). pay asap. gave vendor a ten spot this a.m. will pay remainder tomorrow.


Thing to do this weekend:

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Sunday (pay what you want)

Show:

Notations: Kiefer, Polke, Richter

July 21, 2007 - November 25, 2007

Anselm Kiefer, Sigmar Polke, and Gerhard Richter are undoubtedly three of the most important European contemporary painters. Working in Germany after World War II—a historical moment characterized by philosopher Theodor Adorno as marking the death of poetry after the atrocities of Auschwitz—these artists proposed a vigorous reconsideration of the possibilities of pictorial practice. Through dynamically distinctive approaches, they each question the relevance of history painting, examine the relationship between painting and photography, and pursue experimentation to redefine the technical potential of painting. Kiefer, Polke, and Richter have restored a profound significance to the act of painting as a means for individual artists to unearth and transform the collective consciousness.

By tackling the subjects of history and mythology, Anselm Kiefer (born 1945) creates works of imposing fragility that are extraordinary testimonies to the possibilities of lyricism in a European landscape scarred by genocide and war. Sigmar Polke (born 1941) re-actualizes the experimental impulse—the backbone of artistic practice in the early modern period—revisiting and reinventing the explorations of Dadaists and Surrealists like Francis Picabia (French, 1879–1953) and Max Ernst (German, 1891–1976). Gerhard Richter (born 1932), who left East Germany in 1961 for a career in the West, systematically explores painting’s relevance in a cultural landscape seemingly dominated by products of popular culture and the photographic image.

more budget living:

Wake Up Wednesday...

Add a free shot of espresso to any drink!

coffee - $1.50 (16 oz. or 20 oz.)

free computer time

ING Direct Cafe

also, pick up a coffee "credit" card

every 5th coffee free


Daily Provocation:

"Laughing at our mistakes can lengthen our own life. Laughing at someone else's can shorten it."

Cullen Hightower

via Philadelphia Evening Bulletin frontpage (still $0.25)

note: though a conservative newspaper, culture and arts section very good. also interesting to read the editorial page; gives a good overview of what neo-conservatives believe, a viewpoint very different from mine.

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:24 AM 0 comments



Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Monday, July 23, 2007

6-7 lg mugs of black coffee
1 bag of Doritos Nacho Cheese flavored tortilla chips (net wt. 1 oz.)
1/2 pack of cigarettes

note to self: currently owe the coffee vendor for 13-14 lg coffees ($1 apiece) and 4 pretzels ($0.40 apiece). pay asap.




unrelated:

Push th' little daisies

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:28 AM 0 comments



Monday, July 23, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Sunday, July 22, 2007

2 sm coffees (light/sweet)
2 glazed donuts
1 med butterscotch coffee (light/sweet)
1 can of green iced tea (apple flavored) 12 fl. oz.
3 peanut butter/grape jelly on whole wheat bread sandwiches
3 sm rolls of semi-hard candy (smarties)
1 container of blackberries (half dry pint)
box of fruit punch (6.75 fl. oz.)
3 peanut butter/grape jelly on whole wheat bread sandwiches
3 sm rolls of semi-hard candy (smarties)
can of ginger ale (12 fl. oz.)
1/2 pack of cigarettes

Saturday, July 21, 2007

lg coffee
1 pretzel (mustard)
1 vitamin water (dragonfruit) 20 fl. oz.
1 med butterscotch coffee (light/sweet)
1 tootsie roll
1 can of fruit punch (11.5 fl. oz.)
4-5 biscuits
1/2 pack of cigarettes


photo essay: Grove (Branded Trees)









photos taken Sunday (7/22) 3:30 - 3:40 p.m. and Monday (7/23) 8:40 a.m.
location - B. Franklin Parkway between 20th and 21st


Journeys | Religious Art:

European Artists Return to Church


more:

Speaking volumes - an interview with Chris Burden

Well, it's pretty simple. I went to a prep school in Cambridge, Mass., as a day student. It was a very hard school; my dad must have paid a lot of money to send me there. Between my junior and senior year, I got a National Science Foundation grant to go to La Jolla, to be like a junior scientist, and I took the Greyhound bus from Boston to L.A. That was an eye-opener. I was supposed to have some college interviews. I had one at Pomona College on my way back home because it was off Route 66.

I ended up going to Pomona in a pre-architectural program; the deal was you studied math, physics, art and art history. The math and physics were really hard, and I could not keep up. To tell you the truth, I wasn't interested, and I started working in the art department. My first teacher was John Mason and we did bronze castings; I still have my first casting.

I went home one summer and I worked in an architecture firm in Cambridge and it was horrible. I hated working there. I was organizing magazines and such, but there were people who had gone to architecture grad school, and they were sitting there at these drafting tables drawing toilets on these huge blueprints and I went, "No, I am not going to do four years of grad school to become a draftsman." You had to be 55 years old before you got to make a decision!

So I came back to Pomona and I said, "I want to be a sculptor." My chairman, Nicolai Wasisksi, Jr., was buying art for collectors. We'd see works by Poons and all kinds of Minimalist painters and stuff before he would send them on to the collectors. It was good; I was lucky to go there at that time; schools have life cycles, and this was a good phase. So then I went to graduate school at U.C. Irvine. It was the first year they had the program. I had applied to East Coast schools, like Rutgers and Columbia, got all kinds of offers from there, but I did not want to go back East.

I liked California; I liked the openness of it; I already had started building big sculptures, and I remember deciding that I had to get a pickup truck. I liked doing things outdoors. So I went to Irvine, and after graduating I stayed one more year in Santa Aria because I already had a great studio there. I was the first tenant in this industrial unit: they were huge, 300-foot-long tilt ups, where the walls are poured flat on the floor slab and then craned up into place in a day, with the bases of the walls cast into footings and their tops tied together by the roof beams. They chopped these things all up into little industrial units, and each had a garage door and a little door. You were not allowed to live there: you had to hide your car because that was the sign that someone was there all the time. They were $100 a month, 20 feet wide by 20 feet high by 50 feet long, a little bathroom and a sink in the back corner, brand new.

I worked at the Newport Harbor Museum doing prep work; I got to know a lot of L.A. artists. Somehow Chuck Arnoldi knew that a bunch of us were looking for a space to show our work; we wanted to keep living in Orange County but we wanted to have a small gallery hike the F Space, which was adjacent to my studio. [Burden did performances, including Shoot, there.] Chuck heard of a little hot-dog stand on Brooks Ave. in Venice. It was so nasty, it took us a year to fix it, and then at the end of fixing it, the other people kind of lost interest, so I said, "Well, I'll pay you back for all the materials, so I can live in this." And they said, "Sure." So I paid them $350 for all the paint, and bingo, I had my studio. That was great.

The lady who owned the building lowered the rent from $90 a month to $80 because I was an artist, as opposed to the drug dealer who ran the business before! All the 10 years I lived in that little place, people would get out of jail and come and not just knock on my door but really pull on it, looking to buy drugs. I could see it flexing. It was kind of scary.

I always thought I'd have a career as an artist, at least since my second year in college, when I decided to become an artist. I did not want to teach. I felt really bad when I had to start teaching. I was 33 years old and borrowing money from my mother; my career was weird that way. I got a lot of L.A. press originally, then a lot of art press, but it did not really translate into money. ! was on the cover of Artforum in 1976, and my phone did not ring for two years after that, because the art world is so fashion-conscious and so cyclical. Once you get known, it's like, "Whom should we have for a performance or a lecture? Well, everybody knows him. Let's bring in somebody else, because he's a known quantity."

I started teaching in '78 at UCLA and at the San Francisco Art Institute. Every other day I'd fly into San Francisco. It was a lot of work, but I needed it to get going. I was really penniless. I'd been at UCLA three or four years when Charley Ray was hired. I was full time, but we were lecturers, not tenure track. There were no new positions--it took years to get them.

Southern California has changed a lot since I've arrived, of course. It's become more frenetic, more stressful. L.A. has completely changed. You used to be able to drive around here; can't do that anymore. There's this ossification. The city used to be small because you could get everywhere fast; now it's huge, since driving has lost its fluidity.

I do feel in a community of artists: I see Mike Kelley sometimes and Paul McCarthy; I don't really know what Charley Ray's up to these days. I go out sometimes, not too often, traffic's changed so much. I don't leave Topanga Canyon, where I live now, unless I can do five things at a time. What's happened in my neighborhood here is like what's happened all over L.A. I'm a preservationist, as opposed to my neighbors, who are developers. We bought extra land so that other people would not build on it. My theory is that if you don't own it, they will build on it. I wish I could have bought more land.

I built the skyscrapers here. My office manager Katie's husband, Cary Gepner, is a certified architect. When we were first building here, this is now 22 years ago, I asked, "What's the biggest structure that you could build without a permit?" His answer was, you can build something up to 400 square feet. At the time I had lots of books on architecture. There are these Baltimore row houses that are 10 feet square. Your rooms are stacked on top of each other. The height here for residential building was 35 feet max. I could build a little skyscraper, because that would be within the definition of the 400 square feet--four 10-foot-square floors, and it's four times 8 feet high per floor, making 32 feet plus the thickness of the roof and floors. And who's to say you can't stand on the roof and have that be your deck? So that was the idea.

I made a little sketch of it in 1991. Then these architects came to me; they wanted to do a project with houses designed by artists, and they asked me for a concept. I said, "I've already got mine designed, you guys do the arithmetic." So we started meeting for a couple of years. It was interesting--we got all these different materials, they brought all these samples. So I did end up getting to be an architect. Well, kind of.

We showed it in L.A. at LACE, lying on its side. They did a prototype. Then we built one in Basel in the summer of 2004 in the Messeplatz, and the more I built it, the less I wanted it to be a building, and the more I wanted it to be a sculpture. In Basel it was vertical, it really looks good vertical; so now I have two, because it was cheaper to rebuild it in Basel than to ship it there. See, my dream is to use those two skyscrapers, make some stainless steel ones, and also have these wooden frame houses, and have all those kinds of models of real things, totally freak my neighbors!

I started collecting old municipal light poles, many from the '20s, a while ago. They get taken apart, stripped, restored, repainted and rewired. I've installed them three rows deep on three sides of my studio, about 150 total. They all work. I like the light poles here, so it's not a terrible loss if they don't get to go somewhere else. There's discussion of them going to Vienna, but I would never loan them for an exhibition. When they go from here, they go to a home and I get a check. It's the only way it's going to work for me.

I built a beehive bunker near the top of my property. It's made of 100-pound paper sacks of concrete mix, laid up like the blocks in an igloo. We drove rebar through the bags to link them together and then installed some drip irrigation lines so that the dry mix in the bags turned into concrete over a couple of weeks. The thing weighs more than 5 tons. Access is through a manhole set in the top, about ten feet from the ground. It's the right place for a bunker because it's just a tremendous view, and it's very bizarre when you're up near it, it's disjunctive. You're looking down on all these multi-million-dollar homes, so it's not in Beirut, or on the Golan Heights or something. It gives me information before I build it somewhere else. And I keep waiting for someone to call, and I'll just tell them that it's a sculpture! I wonder how many beehive bunkers it will take before somebody calls?

A lot of my work is performative. I would say the same of the bridges: they're about spanning from A to B. You could do it by writing an essay connecting nuclear physics to Renaissance painting, or you could do it in a physical way. The bunker is performative by implication. With the Medusa Head, the whole thing [a suspended, dark, gnarled 14-foot-in-diameter lump] is covered with model railroad tracks. The trains can't move, but the implication is that this whole thing is like a snarling world of industry. I don't know if it's performative, but it seems to me it is. Medusa Head is about an ecological nightmare that did not come to be. It shows what an early British farmer thought in his heart of hearts when he saw the first fucking steam locomotive coming down the tracks. There are parts of England--or New Jersey, for that matter--that look like the Medusa Head for sure. But trains are also like, well, the Orient Express--they have their own mythology.

I am not sure that the radicality in my work is linked to California, linked to place, but maybe it has to do with how you feel history is so much newer here. I remember going back to my father's funeral in New Hampshire around ten years ago. There were some people in the room, so just to be a wise guy, I say to them, "And when did you get rid of your Indians?" The glare and the hatred was indescribable, and they looked at me like I was some sort of madman, you know. And they stuttered a little and said, well, I could probably go to the library and look it up.

excerpted from Art in America (November, 2006)


...and lastly, just cause it's a good tune

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:51 AM 2 comments



Saturday, July 21, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Friday, July 20, 2007

sm cup of coffee (light/sweet)
sm amount of baked chicken
1/2 of gyro/pita bread sandwich
lg coffee (light/sweet)
3-4 lg mugs of black coffee
1 pkg of oven roasted turkey breast (net wt. 8 oz.)
2 sm cups of sweet tea
1 1/2 servings of chicken/veg/cheese/macaroni noodle casserole
1 1/2 side servings of mashed potatoes
2 slices of whole wheat bread
1 slice of heavy/hearty multi-grain bread
3 sm chocolate brownies
sm amount of water
1/2 pack of cigarettes


Art, Music, and The Unknown...

Dumping The Shark:

More Damien Hirst (New York Times editorial, Friday, July 20th)

Tunes:

10 unreleased Dr. Dog songs (one per week) info via Ice Pack by A.D. Amorosi

Column:

Today I Had...


bonus round:

say it ain't sew (haiku)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 8:54 AM 0 comments



Friday, July 20, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Thursday, July 19, 2007

bottle of water (16.9 fl. oz.)
5-6 lg mugs of black coffee
toasted kaiser roll with butter
plain bagel (toasted)
bottle of water (20 fl. oz.)
pint of lager
16 oz. can of malt liquor (brown bagged)
pint of lager (diff. location)
bag of bbq pork rinds (net wt. 0.5 oz.)
pint of lager (same location)
bag of honey roasted peanuts (net wt. 2 oz.)
pint of lager (same location)
1 mocha coffee (light/sweet) 24 fl. oz.)
1/2-3/4 pack of cigarettes


Things and Junk (But Not Stuff)
Beatles' songs plus others on youtube.com

More Stuff on youtube.com

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:32 AM 0 comments



Thursday, July 19, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
3 breakfast biscuits
1 caramel coffee (light) 16 fl. oz.
1 med butterscotch coffee (light/sweet)
1 bottle of water (16.9 fl. oz.)
3/4 pack of cigarettes


Summer Express: 101 Main Courses/Simple Meals Ready in 10 Minutes or Less... by Mark Bittman (The Minimalist)

American Food Writing: An Anthology With Classic Recipes
From Thomas Jefferson to M. F. K. Fisher to David Sedaris, Americans have long been passionate about food.
Reviewed by ROY BLOUNT Jr.


other:

How often do you find yourself on the internet looking at the same boring pages? You know there is something out there but you don't know where to look...

random website, click here

Posted by Allan Smithee at 9:27 AM 0 comments



Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 raisin bagel (plain)
4-5 lg mugs of black coffee
1 bottle of water (20 fl. oz.)
1 peanut butter/grape jelly/potato chips on white bread sandwich
1 sm-med ziploc bag of potato chips
1 (butterscotch/peanuts) granola bar (net wt. 1.2 oz.)
1 box of berry juice (6.75 fl. oz.)
1/2 pack of cigarettes


Letter to the Editor (Philadelphia Daily News, 7/18/07)

Painted steel beams aren't tourist-worthy art

The recent erection of the sculpture "The Iroquois" by Mark di Suvero on the Parkway demonstrates once again that Philly is brain-dead when it comes to understanding what is and isn't art. The only difference between I-beam sculptures like Suvero's and demolition rubble: His are painted.

The effect of sculptures like "The Iroquois" on tourism is best demonstrated by a visit to Sistine Chapel in Rome. A series of modern paintings are hung in the stairway corridors. In my many visits, the majority of visitors rush through the hallways to get to the main hall. There, the paintings and sculptures by the masters are presented for the world to see.

I doubt that even a Canadian will cross the border to see a jumble of painted I-beams titled "The Iroquois." Philly needs to stop shopping at the junkyards for art.

name withheld*

Mantua, N.J.


*name withheld by Automotive Acne blogspot not Editors at Philly Daily News



**appropriated photo essay: advertisements stripped of context (a suspension of viewpoint)
















Artists represented:

Felix Gonzalez-Torres, Ryszard Wasko, Priscilla Monge, Roseanne Backstedt, Not Vital, Ed Moses, Robert Weingarten, Philip Guston, Meg White by Juergen Teller, Ouattara Watts, Sherrie Levine, David Hammons, Zhange Enli, Christopher Wool

**ads from an international art magazine (circa March, 2006)


(other) very amusing:

Are you high?

Posted by: G at July 17, 2007 8:19 PM

Is it not up on the website too? I just looked for it and can't find it.

Posted by: Paddy at July 17, 2007 8:53 PM

No, not online yet. But it may show up soon. I'll be sure to mention it when/if.

And no, I'm not high. One healthy grocery trip and everyone suspects mind-altering drugs.

Posted by: Kriston at July 17, 2007 9:08 PM

read original post and all comments

Posted by Allan Smithee at 12:39 PM 0 comments



Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Monday, July 16, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
4-5 lg mugs of black coffee
1 can of grape soda (12 fl. oz.)
sm cup of chicken/veg. noodle soup
1 baked chicken drumstick
1 sm (m&m) brownie
3 bread rolls
1 plain bagel (dry)
sm-med container of sliced fruit (various)
med plastic cup of sweet tea
1 hotdog (mustard/ketchup)
2 bread rolls
1/2 pack of cigarettes


recipe:

Vegetable Fried Rice

Ingredients:

* 1 cup instant brown rice
* 1 cup vegetable broth
* 2 eggs, lightly beaten
* 2 teaspoons canola oil
* 6 ounces asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced into 1-inch pieces
* 4 scallions, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
* 4 teaspoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
* 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
* Hot pepper sauce, to taste


Cooking Directions

1. Combine rice and broth in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat. Cover, reduce heat and simmer until the liquid is absorbed, 12 to 14 minutes. Spread the rice out on a large plate and let stand for 5 minutes.

2. While the rice is cooling, coat a large nonstick wok or skillet with cooking spray and place over medium heat. Pour in eggs and cook, stirring gently, until just set, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Transfer to a small bowl.

3. Heat canola oil in the pan over medium-high; add asparagus and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add bell pepper, scallions, garlic and ginger; cook, stirring, until the vegetables are just tender, about 2 minutes. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce and vinegar to the pan; cook until the liquid is absorbed, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Fold in the cooked eggs. Remove from the heat; stir in sesame oil and hot sauce.

Yield: 2 servings

Nutrition Info

Per Serving

* Calories: 366 kcal
* Carbohydrates: 47 g
* Dietary Fiber: 7 g
* Fat: 14 g
* Protein: 14 g
* Sugars: 6 g

courtesy: Yahoo.com


(other) recap:

For The Laugh Of God



vs



For The Love Of God


(more) profile:

God is dead, long live us; Ron Currie Jr. creates a post-theistic society


Finances:

Two Thumbs Down and Both Middle Fingers Extended (Bad Business Deal In The Making)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:06 AM 0 comments



Monday, July 16, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Sunday, July 15, 2007

2 sm coffees (light/sweet)
1 med coffee (light/sweet)
2 bottles of water (16.9 fl. oz. apiece)
1 hotdog (mustard/ketchup)
sm side of potato salad
1 bag of crunchy cheese doodles (net wt. 1 oz.)
1 banana
med styrofoam cup of sweet tea
1 serving of baked chicken (breast)
med side serving of risotto-type rice
1 bottle of water (16.9 fl. oz.)
3 sm bags of peanuts (still shelled)
sm diet coke (10 fl. oz./guesstimate)
sm serving of general tsao chicken
med serving of white rice
1/2 pack of cigarettes

Saturday, July 14, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
2 slices of hamburger/sausage pizza
2 slices of cheese pizza
lg coffee (light/sweet)
med coffee (light/sweet)
sm amount of orange soda/french fries/bread roll
1/2 pint of chocolate milk
1 serving of baked chicken (drumstick/thigh)
side serving of white rice
side serving of green string beans
bag of honey nuts (net wt. 1 oz.)
1 mixed bag of apple slices/grapes (net wt. 2.3 oz.)
1 white cheese on bread roll sandwich
1/2 pack of cigarettes


*Visuals:








*

other:

One for the books - Phils fall to Cards, become first club to 10,000 losses

more:

Know Your Dealer (10 Pot Pusher Profiles)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:09 AM 0 comments



Saturday, July 14, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Friday, July 13, 2007

2 lg coffees (light/sweet)
1 pretzel (mustard)
16 oz. can of malt liquor (brown bagged)
1 sm bread roll
3-4 lg mugs of black coffee
2 dry bagels (plain/onion)
1 mini french baguette (net wt. 7 oz.)
bottle of water (20 fl. oz.)
1 mini french baguette (net wt. 7 oz.)
can of orange/pineapple fruit juice drink (11.5 fl. oz.)
1 ham/salami (mustard) on rye bread sandwich
1 Tastykake strawberry krimpet (iced sponge cake) net wt. 2 oz.
bottle of water (16.9 fl. oz.)
3 "taquitos"
2 slices of sausage/hamburger pizza
1 slice of cheese pizza
1/2 pack of cigarettes

note to self: currently owe the coffee vendor for 7 lg coffees 9 lg coffees ($1 apiece) and 4 pretzels ($0.40 apiece). pay asap. (updated 7/16)


Portraiture

New exhibit at the Free Library of Philadelphia (Central branch on Vine St./20th) in the gallery/hallway next to the Government Publications Department

Posted by Allan Smithee at 7:17 AM 0 comments



Friday, July 13, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Thursday, July 12, 2007

2 lg coffees (light/sweet)
2 pretzels (mustard/Siracha hot chili sauce)
6-7 cups of black coffee
1 toasted bagel (plain/dry)
1 sharp provolone cheese on long roll hoagie/hero (12") sandwich (lettuce,tomato,onion, mayo)
1 mango
pint of lager (royal/imperial)
single shot of espresso (sweet)
2 bottles of lager (diff. location)
1 sm cherry snow-cone
1/2 pack of cigarettes


Two videos from the Circus Devils' newest release Sgt. Disco (available August 7th) Produced by Todd Tobias. Voice, lyrics and cover art by Robert Pollard. Musical instruments by Todd Tobias.

Bogus Reactions

War Horsies

other:

Ten Friday the 13th Facts and Theories via Digg / News

Posted by Allan Smithee at 11:54 AM 0 comments



Thursday, July 12, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
1/2 pulled chicken hoagie/hero sandwich
1 serving of meatloaf with
side of mashed potatoes and
side of green beans
lg coffee (light/sweet)
2 pints of lager (*)
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
pint glass of fountain coke
2 bottles of lager (*) diff. location
bottle of water (16.9 fl.oz.)
1/2-3/4 pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint/bottle of lager


Interesting Facts About Water (Water, more precious than gold, learn to conserve it)

*There is the same amount of water on Earth today as there was 3 billion years ago.

*Bottled water may cost up to 1,000 times more than water provided by the City and is not as strictly regulated for purity.

*You should survive about a month without food, but only 5 to 7 days without water.

*2/3 of the water used in an average home is used in the bathroom.

*66% of the human body is water.

*66% of the human brain is water.

*75% of a living tree is water.

*Typically, 3 to 7 gallons of water are used for every toilet flush.

*On the average, a person uses 2 gallons of water to brush his or her teeth each day.

*A 10 minute shower uses about 55 gallons of water.

*A leaking faucet can waste up to 100 gallons of water a day.

*You can help prevent pollution of drinking water sources by carefully disposing of the chemical products you use in your home.

info via The Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center


Fun With Fish:

2005 & 2006 Fairmount Fish Ladder (Passage Data Compared to Historical Counts)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:42 AM 2 comments



Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Tuesday, July 10, 2007

6-7 cups of black coffee
1 pkg of crackers with peanut butter (4 per pkg)
bottle of water (20 fl.oz.)
sm plastic cup of pink grapefruit juice
1 1/2 servings of pasta/veg. casserole (tomato sauce, corn, peas, red bellpeppers, cheese and sm amount of chicken)
bottle of water (16.9 fl.oz.)
2 bottles of grape flavored fitness water (16.9 fl.oz. apiece)
1/4-1/2 pack of cigarettes

Almanac

Wednesday, July 11th:

Whenever Wednesday: A Midsummer Night's Screening. The Avengers: A Touch of Brimstone, directed by James Hill, 1966, 60 minutes, and Helter Skelter, directed by Tom Gries, 1976, 184 minutes. Dusk. Free with gallery admission. Institute of Contemporary Art, 118 S. 36th.

Sidewalk Soundbites Concert. Wayneron and the Untouchables (beach-style). 1818 Market (rain location: Gallery, 9th & Market). Noon-1:30 p.m. Free.

Center City Sips Happy Hour. $4 cocktails, $3 wine, $2 beers, and $1 appetizers. 5-7 p.m. 47 bars and restaurants around Center City.

More:

God Given

Man Measured

Dog Approved


other:

Personal Note: Again, Thank You for reading Automotive Acne (Barely A Blog)

Your Account
Welcome Allan Smithee
Site Name: Automotive Acne — Total Hits: 4000

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23 Weeks Ago 01/28/07 - 02/03/07 162
24 Weeks Ago 01/21/07 - 01/27/07 61

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:27 AM 0 comments



Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Monday, July 9, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
8-10 cookies (assorted)
6-7 cups of black coffee
med slice of pound cake (fruit)
1 pkg of grilled cheese flavored crackers with
yellow cheese (6 per pkg) total net wt. 1.38 oz.
2-3 sm cups of water
1 pkg of honey mustard & onion pretzel chips (net wt. 8 oz.)
med cup of water
med serving of spaghetti (tomato sauce/sausage)
1 ham/white cheese on whole wheat bread sandwich
1 ham/white cheese on white bread sandwich
1 Tastykake chocolate chip soft cookie (net wt. 1 1/2 oz.)
bottle of water (20 fl.oz.)
1/4-1/2 pack of cigarettes


Summer...

Recipe:

Ceviche

Rating:
4.00 (1 ratings)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
1 lb. firm white fish, chopped into 1/8” pieces
2 Tbsps. cilantro, diced
1/2 cup white onion, diced
2 ripe tomatoes(Roma), diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup fresh lime juice(or more as needed)
salt to taste

Instructions
In a large bowl combine all ingredients except the tomato and cilantro. Toss gently but thoroughly, making sure all of the fish is thoroughly coated. Add tomatoes and cilantro to mixture. Cover and refrigerate for one hour (or longer), stirring occasionally. Fish should become opaque and scallops will lose translucent appearance. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve with tostadas or saltine crackers.

note: for some spice, add sm amount of chilled/diced jalepenos to taste.

other:

Broads and Bikinis

Hairy Guys




plus:

Beer Coasters

bonus round:

Man flies 193 miles in lawn chair

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:41 AM 0 comments



Monday, July 9, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Sunday, July 8, 2007

2 sm coffees (light/sweet)
3 powdered donuts
1 bottle of water (16.9 fl.oz.)
1 bologna /white cheese on white bread sandwich
1 pkg of cheese crackers with peanut butter (6 per pkg) total net wt. 1.38 oz.
1 cherry tootsie roll lollipop
lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 honey bun (net wt. 3 oz.)
2 med cups of water
1 med-lg serving of pasta (linguine noodles, chopped tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, cilantro)*
med serving of brown potatoes (sliced/baked) with sm amount of sweet potato as topping*
med serving of green salad (cherry tomatoes, red onions, balsamic dressing)*
bottle of water (20 fl.oz.)
bag of pretzel chips (net wt. 8 oz.)
bottle of water (20 fl.oz.)
1 sliced hot dogs/white cheese (mustard/ketchup) on white bread sandwich
sm cup of noodle (tomato sauce) pasta
1 tropical punch pouch (6.75 fl.oz.)
2 peanut butter cookies
1 sugar cookie
bottle of water (20 fl.oz.)
1/4-1/2 pack of cigarettes

*prepared/served by Food Not Bombs




Azalea Garden - Philadelphia (Sunday, July 08, 2:15 p.m.)

More Recommended Art:

Project H.O.M.E. Back Home Cafe - "Naif/Outsider" Paintings on Paper; Note: *very* high quality

Posted by Allan Smithee at 7:01 AM 0 comments



Sunday, July 8, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Saturday, July 7, 2007

2 med. coffees (light/sweet)
1 Tastykake chocolate/chocolate chip soft cookie (net wt. 1 1/4 oz.)
lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 soft pretzel (mustard/Siracha hot chili sauce)
1/4 pack of cigarettes


kid's art:

Dear Diary:

You know you’re not in the suburbs when you see the following exhibitions hanging on the walls of a nursery school:

1) “The Numbers and Letters of the Subway,” featuring hand-painted paper plates in red, yellow, green and blue, each correctly lettered and numbered for its appropriate line.

2) Collages made from expired MetroCards.

Martha Katzeff

excerpted from Metropolitan Diary, New York Times (7/2/07)


Recommended Summer Shows (Philadelphia):

Moore College of Art and Design (Graham Gallery - Selections from the Fellowship Show)

Gallery Joe (Ink)

Larry Becker Contemporary Art ('Some'
A Changing Selection Of Work By Gallery And Invited Artists, and Special Projects

Posted by Allan Smithee at 7:39 AM 0 comments



Saturday, July 7, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Friday, July 6, 2007

1 turkey, swiss cheese, lettuce, mayo on wheat bread sandwich (net wt. 6.3 oz.)
lg coffee (light/sweet)
6-7 cups of black coffee
1 Fiesta salad (white chicken, corn, blackbeans, salsa) net wt. 9.45 oz.
bottle of water (20 fl.oz.)
box of apple/grape juice (4.23 fl.oz.)
bag of pretzels (net wt. 1 1/2 oz.)
2 pkgs of granola bars (2 per pkg)
1 Reese's peanutbutter cup (net wt. 0.55 oz.)
1 tropical punch pouch (6.75 fl.oz.)
can of sweet tea (23.5 fl.oz.)
1/2 pack of cigarettes


bumper sticker sighted:

Cats are just small people in fur coats

that sentiment is sort of accurate and yet... there are so many things wrong with the statement it makes.

more fun

Posted by Allan Smithee at 7:13 AM 0 comments



Friday, July 6, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Thursday, July 5, 2007

lg coffee (light)
med coffee (light/sweet)
bottle of peach/watemelon juice (16 fl.oz.)*
5-6 cups of black coffee
2-3 sm cups of water
med coffee (light/sweet)
1 peanut butter/grape jelly/corn chips on white bread sandwich
bag of corn chips (net wt. 1 1/4 oz.)
sm brownie
sm box of raisins (net wt. 1.5 oz.)
2 bologna/white cheese on white bread sandwiches
1 Tastykake chocolate/chocolate chip soft cookie bar (net wt. 1 1/4 oz.)
bottle of water (16 fl.oz.)
1 Tarragon chicken salad on multigrain bread sandwich (net wt. 8.5 oz.)
1/4-1/2 pack of cigarettes

*note to self: had bottle of peach/watermelon juice last week though forgot to list it


Twofer Friday:


There Will Come Soft Rains
War Time

There will come soft rains and the smell of the ground,
And swallows circling with their shimmering sound;

And frogs in the pools singing at night,
And wild plum-trees in tremulous white.

Robins will wear their feathery fire
Whistling their whims on low fence-wire;

And not one will know of the war, not one
Will care at last when it is done.

Not one would mind, neither bird nor tree,
If mankind perished utterly;

And spring herself, when she woke at dawn
Would scarcely know that we were gone.


Sara Teasdale



The Red Cockatoo

Sent as a present from Annam -
A red cockatoo.
Coloured like the peach-tree blossom,
Speaking with the speech of men.
And they did to it what is always done
To the learned and eloquent.
They took a cage with stout bars
And shut it up inside.


Anonymous (translated from the Chinese by Arthur Waley)


plus one:


Philosopher

He scowled at the barometer: "Will it rain?"
None heard, with all that pattering on the pane.


John Frederick Nims



all three poems taken from:

VOICES

an anthology of poems
and pictures

the fifth book

edited by
Geoffrey Summerfield

copyright 1969 by Rand McNally & Company

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:12 AM 0 comments



Thursday, July 5, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Wednesday, July 4, 2007

bottle of peach iced tea (16 fl.oz.)
ham/egg/cheese on bagel sandwich
med coffee/shot of espresso combo
toasted onion bagel with cream cheese
1 hot dog (mustard/raw onion)
2 lg glasses of fountain coke
pint of lager
2 pints of lager (*) diff. location
glass of fountain coke
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
pkg of saltine (2 per) crackers
sm amount of potato salad
sm amount of coleslaw
1 sm takeout container serving of (asian) veg./rice medley with papaya slices
sm amount of french fries
sm amount of hush puppies
sm side of coleslaw
lg plastic cup of fountain lemon iced tea (20 fl.oz.)
pack and half of cigarettes

(*) additional pint of lager


Photo Essay: The Morning After (July 5th, 8:45 a.m. - 8:50 a.m.)













more local news:

Vocalist acquitted of charges

JUL 5, 2007

CENTER CITY - Street singer Anthony Riley was acquitted Tuesday of disorderly conduct charges that stemmed from what he is known for — singing outside.

The 20-year-old aspiring vocalist from West Philadelphia was cleared of the March 27 charge in Community Court after witnesses testified that the arresting police officer told Riley, “This is Afghanistan,” after Riley questioned why he couldn’t sing in Rittenhouse Square.

“We won,” Riley’s attorney Evan Shingles said after the hearing. “And [the judge] was kind enough to note that this indeed is not Afghanistan and this is America.”

The arrest led to a public debate over free speech rights that involved a musical rally for Riley in Center City’s posh square as well as Fairmount Park and city officials weighing in on whether musical events were allowed without permits prior to the performance.

City Solicitor Romulo Diaz Jr. recently weighed in with a memo to Police Commissioner Sylvester Johnson writing that “a musical or theatrical ‘event’ implies some sort of staged production. The fact that an individual is simply playing a musical instrument in a public space ... does not suggest that the individual is inviting others to watch or participate as an audience.”

Metro Newspaper (Philadelphia edition, July 5, 2007)


related:

Letter to the Editor (Weekly Press, July 4th, 2007 edition, Philadelphia)

RE: Turning Rittenhouse Square into Times Square, New York.

For the past twenty-nine years I have lived on Rittenhouse Square. I came here because of the beauty of the park and the tranquility it offered in the heart of a big, noisy city. For the first twenty-seven of these years, Rittenhouse Square served all the nearby residents well as our neighborhood park, just like Washington Square and Fitler Square. In the last two years, however, a small group of young people from outside the area have been trying, for their own purposes, to turn Rittenhouse Square into Times Square, New York.

I do not know where these definitely amateur "musicians" and their friends come from or why they feel so strongly that it is perfectly all right for the discordant and loud sounds that they make on their out-of tune instruments to be allowed to override the music I am listening to, or the conversations I am having, in my home. It also frequently occurs just when I need some peace and quiet, or when I am ready to get some well-needed rest. But their insistence on being in Rittenhouse Square seems a bit perverse because there so many other nice parks in close proximity to Center City where they could play their instruments without disturbing the peace. (In fact, their presence at several other locations in Center City is already starting to create serious problems for the people and businesses in those areas).

Lord knows, there are plenty of natural noises I hear all day from down on the street. That is to be expected in this busy area. And there are many times during the year when professional musicians and entertainers, authorized by the Fairmount Park Commission, perform in the square - sometimes during the day, sometimes in the early evening. As good citizens, my neighbors and I respect the right of our neighborhood organizations to use the park for important cultural, religious, charitable and communal events that end before sundown and last only for a few days at most.

I can't believe that it is either fair or legal for a few uncaring itinerants to seriously disrupt the lives of hundreds of respectable citizens living in a well-established historic neighborhood. I also believe that once people start trying to change a law that has been in effect for over one hundred years, without complaint, other outsiders will also make every effort to change the other regulated regulations. And once that happens "there goes the neighborhood." But by then the troublemakers will have moved on and my neighbors and I will have to work hard to re-establish the kind of neighborhood that brought us to Rittenhouse years ago.

(name withheld)*
Rittenhouse, Center City

*editor's note: name withheld by Automotive Acne blogspot (Allan Smithee) not Editors at Weekly Press (Philadelphia)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 7:27 AM 0 comments



Wednesday, July 4, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Tuesday, July 3, 2007

bottle of peach iced tea (16 fl.oz.)
lg coffee (light/sweet)
1 kaiser roll with butter
5-6 cups of black coffee
2 pints of lager (*)
bag of salted peanuts (net wt. 2 oz.)
bag of bbq corn chips (net wt. 1.5 oz.)
slice of cold cheese pizza
2 bottles of lager
single espresso (diff. location)
2 bottles of lager (previous happy hour location)
2 pints of lager (*) royal/imperial
pack and half of cigarettes

(*) additional pint(s) of lager


Spin: 'The Libby Motion' - The legal impact of Bush's action

"By Choosing a commutation over a pardon, President Bush has started a national conversation about sentencing."


This Date In Baseball


Blast From The Past:

"He told me...that, as a martyr, he would have been granted 72 virgins. This didn't seem quite the moment to point out that there is a lively, ongoing debate among scholars of Islam as to whether the 72 promised virgins might, in fact, only be 72 raisins."

-- The New Republic's Peter Bergen, on an interview with a would-be suicide bomber


info via the Philadelphia Inquirer and Doonesbury.com

Posted by Allan Smithee at 7:42 AM 0 comments



Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Monday, July 2, 2007

lg coffee (light/sweet)
2 bbq babyback ribs*
sm-med piece of meat (med)*
sm amount of french fries*
bottle of peach iced tea (16 fl.oz.)
dbl cheeseburger (McDonalds)
2 pints of lager (royal/imperial)
2 pints of lager (*) diff. location
glass of fountain coke
3-4 pints of lager (diff. location)
2 glasses of fountain coke
sm cup of potato soup with
3 pkgs of saltine (2 per) crackers
1/2 pickle
1/2 soft pretzel
pack of cigarettes

*room temperature (outside)
(*) additional pint(s) of lager


LIES LIES LIES

"Bush said he decided to "respect" the jury's verdict that Libby was guilty of four felonies for lying about his role in the leak of a covert CIA officer's identity. But the president said Libby's "exceptional public service" and previously unblemished criminal history led him to conclude that the 30-month sentence handed down last month was "excessive."

White House Stationery


Nuclear Energy Is Hot Again

The United States has 104 commercial reactors which supply about 20 percent of the country's power. In comparison, France gets nearly 80 percent of its power from nuclear reactors. The Department of Energy projects a 45 percent growth in electricity demand by 2030, meaning 35 to 50 new nuclear plants will be needed by then just to maintain nuclear's share of the energy market, said Scott Peterson of the Nuclear Energy Institute, the industry's chief lobbyist.

Recycling used fuel, which contains 90 percent of its original energy after one use, can reduce waste. "Reprocessing" also produces a plutonium that‘s nearer to weapons grade, raising fears that widespread reprocessing could increase the risks of nuclear proliferation. Waste disposal, safe operation and security remain major concerns, but economics may be the biggest deterrent. Huge capital costs combine into an enormous price tag for would-be investors.


"That growing demand, *not* global warming, has been the single biggest factor in companies looking at building nuclear plants again," Peterson said.

Note: Nuclear power is produced when neutrons split the nucleus of uranium atoms, releasing heat which is used to boil water and produce the steam that drives a plant‘s turbines. The process is emissions-free and the radioactive waste is contained inside the plant.

"There are better ways to boil water," Jim Riccio of Greenpeace said.

But any major expansion will require selling nuclear in new places, where local opposition may be intense and winning approval may be costly.

"This isn't just a bunch of environmentalists who think this is a bad idea," Riccio said. "It's most people who *aren't* being paid to think otherwise."


Fourth of July Prayer:

Pride Brings Disgrace

The Humble Are Wise

Lord, Please Give Us

Wise Leaders


seen at Highway Tabernacle - Assembly of God (18th/Spring Garden - Philadelphia)

Posted by Allan Smithee at 6:36 AM 0 comments



Monday, July 2, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Sunday, July 1, 2007

lg mocha coffee (20 fl.oz.)
1 hash brown (net wt. 2.5 oz.)
bottle of orange juice (16 fl.oz.)
2 pints of lager
lg glass of fountain coke
2 pints of lager (**) diff. location
2 glasses of fountain coke
2 pints of lager (diff. location)
pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint(s) of lager

update re: Beer Fueled Petition Drive

Eleven persons have signed the (3-4 page) petition.

postscript: If Money's Burning A Hole In Your Pocket, It's Not A New Pair Of Pants You Need. (postcard/page 3 of petition) Also, two persons at a table refused to sign. They're Comcast customers... um, no, don't know whether they paid their tab with cash or plastic.

Posted by Allan Smithee at 7:05 AM 0 comments



Sunday, July 1, 2007
Food Stuff Consumption And Miscellany

Saturday, June 30, 2007

lg mocha coffee (20 fl.oz.)
sausage/egg/cheese on longroll sandwich
sm coffee (light/sweet)
bottle of peach iced tea (16 fl.oz.)
2 pints of lager
2 lg glasses of fountain coke
sm coffee (light/sweet)
2 pints of lager (*) diff. location
meatball/provolone cheese on long roll sandwich
sm side of coleslaw
1/2 pickle (sliced lengthwise)
pint of lager (diff. location)
lg medley of puffy cheetos/pretzels/nacho cheese tortilla chips
2 cans of PBR (12 fl.oz.)
pack of cigarettes

(*) additional pint(s) of lager

See it before it's gone:

lg scale mosaic (4'x6') tile mural of Center City streets. Probably made in the late 50's or as recently as the early 70's. The mosaic is located on the Benjamin Parkway between 17th/18th. Note: the glass protecting the piece has been shattered/broken for about two years, maybe even longer. Its sorta hidden in front of an abandoned building next to the Subway sandwich shop.

link

Posted by Allan Smithee at 8:10 AM 0 comments