Tower of Power
An out-of-service water tower that was built as an Art Deco monument during the New Deal is being retrofitted to house Milwaukee's Department of Neighborhood Services. Next month, the octagonal tower will be outfitted with natural gas-fired microturbines, making a one-time landmark a model for sustainable civic energy.
Sunday, December 22, 2002
War Correspendents' School
Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reporter Katherine Skiba recently participated in a six-day Pentagon training session for journalists sent to cover military conflicts such as the pending war in Iraq. Her first-person account of the experience addresses the primary purpose of the program -- ostensibly to make journalists safer -- while countering the potential misinformation overseas by having more American reporters on the frontlines. Skiba's story also sheds some light on the realities -- and horrors -- of war, something most journalists are probably ill prepared to face.
Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reporter Katherine Skiba recently participated in a six-day Pentagon training session for journalists sent to cover military conflicts such as the pending war in Iraq. Her first-person account of the experience addresses the primary purpose of the program -- ostensibly to make journalists safer -- while countering the potential misinformation overseas by having more American reporters on the frontlines. Skiba's story also sheds some light on the realities -- and horrors -- of war, something most journalists are probably ill prepared to face.
Here Comes Fandom Claus
The Chicago Tribune features an excellent profile of a Rankin/Bass fan who's gone on to make his fandom into a cottage industry. Rick Goldschmidt, a telecommunications worker, has authored two books on stop-motion animation classics such as Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, manages an archive that's often drawn on for books and other projects, and consults on commercial efforts such as Rhino's recent "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town/Frosty the Snowman" soundtrack reissue. The article is a good look at how fans can become expert historians.
Registration is required to access the Tribune article.
The Chicago Tribune features an excellent profile of a Rankin/Bass fan who's gone on to make his fandom into a cottage industry. Rick Goldschmidt, a telecommunications worker, has authored two books on stop-motion animation classics such as Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, manages an archive that's often drawn on for books and other projects, and consults on commercial efforts such as Rhino's recent "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town/Frosty the Snowman" soundtrack reissue. The article is a good look at how fans can become expert historians.
Registration is required to access the Tribune article.
Friday, December 20, 2002
'Tis the Season to Be... AWOL XII
Tomorrow I head to northern Wisconsin for vacation Christmas week.
While I always hope to update Media Diet while traveling, if I don't, that doesn't mean that Media Diet is dead (long live Media Diet!). It just means that it's resting.
Worst case scenario: Media Diet will be back up and running Dec. 30 or Jan. 2. Happy holidays, everyone!
Tomorrow I head to northern Wisconsin for vacation Christmas week.
While I always hope to update Media Diet while traveling, if I don't, that doesn't mean that Media Diet is dead (long live Media Diet!). It just means that it's resting.
Worst case scenario: Media Diet will be back up and running Dec. 30 or Jan. 2. Happy holidays, everyone!
Rock Shows of Note L
Last night was a double whammy. First up, a great pop show at the Abbey Lounge in Somerville. Shumai, the Tardy, and Seana Carmody organized a Very Indie Pop Christmas show.
Shumai, or the Secret Santas
Originally, this was supposed to be an Operators show, but the band they were trying to bring up from New York City couldn't make it, so the event was rearranged. Shumai's powerful pop was better than what I remember of their Charlie's Kitchen show. I'm sure it was the sound at the Abbey, which is quite good. Cassie O's singing was beautiful, and Don's deadpan harmony added a lot.
One half of the Tardy
The Tardy also played a good set. Jef and Steph's harmonies were better than they are a lot of the time, and the duo performed with a lot of energy. The Psychedelic Furs cover piqued some interest in the crowd, and Jef accidentally invited everyone in the bar to the Q Division party after the show.
Carmody at Sea
Last up, Seana Carmody. The rest of Seana's band was home for the holidays, and to tell the truth, I enjoy her more solo and in scaled-back settings. Her solo stuff last night was wonderful, and the special guest surprises were quite interesting. One of the women from Victory at Sea came on stage to wait in the wings hiding behind the curtain and provide occasional backing vocals. And Seana's boyfriend sat in on drums for a song. Word is he hadn't played drums in six years. "This has been a long time coming," he said sheepishly.
After the show ended, a bunch of us headed over to Q Division for the studio's holiday party. It was a little weird practicing Tuesday, mixing at the Q on Wednesday, and returning with the band last night, but it was fun. And Q Division's holiday parties are always big doings. Most of Boston's rock and pop scenes was there, and if you'd have bombed the Q last night, the music world would be at a sizable loss. Thanks to Dave, Rafi, and everyone else who made us feel so welcome!
Last night was a double whammy. First up, a great pop show at the Abbey Lounge in Somerville. Shumai, the Tardy, and Seana Carmody organized a Very Indie Pop Christmas show.
Shumai, or the Secret Santas
Originally, this was supposed to be an Operators show, but the band they were trying to bring up from New York City couldn't make it, so the event was rearranged. Shumai's powerful pop was better than what I remember of their Charlie's Kitchen show. I'm sure it was the sound at the Abbey, which is quite good. Cassie O's singing was beautiful, and Don's deadpan harmony added a lot.
One half of the Tardy
The Tardy also played a good set. Jef and Steph's harmonies were better than they are a lot of the time, and the duo performed with a lot of energy. The Psychedelic Furs cover piqued some interest in the crowd, and Jef accidentally invited everyone in the bar to the Q Division party after the show.
Carmody at Sea
Last up, Seana Carmody. The rest of Seana's band was home for the holidays, and to tell the truth, I enjoy her more solo and in scaled-back settings. Her solo stuff last night was wonderful, and the special guest surprises were quite interesting. One of the women from Victory at Sea came on stage to wait in the wings hiding behind the curtain and provide occasional backing vocals. And Seana's boyfriend sat in on drums for a song. Word is he hadn't played drums in six years. "This has been a long time coming," he said sheepishly.
After the show ended, a bunch of us headed over to Q Division for the studio's holiday party. It was a little weird practicing Tuesday, mixing at the Q on Wednesday, and returning with the band last night, but it was fun. And Q Division's holiday parties are always big doings. Most of Boston's rock and pop scenes was there, and if you'd have bombed the Q last night, the music world would be at a sizable loss. Thanks to Dave, Rafi, and everyone else who made us feel so welcome!
Hiptop Nation
My Sidekick was on a delivery truck at 9:30 a.m. today, and it got here about an hour-plus ago. I've been playing with the email client settings and getting organized, and I just tested the camera. Here's a snap of Hiromi, a woman I work with.
We're entering a whole new era in Media Diet, I think.
My Sidekick was on a delivery truck at 9:30 a.m. today, and it got here about an hour-plus ago. I've been playing with the email client settings and getting organized, and I just tested the camera. Here's a snap of Hiromi, a woman I work with.
We're entering a whole new era in Media Diet, I think.
Also-Has-Beens
Sad news from the Also-Rans, one of Boston's more promising indie pop bands:
I reviewed the band's EP in May, and while bummed they won't see any full-length recordings, I appreciate their offering the "back catalog" for download. Don't sit on songs people!
Sad news from the Also-Rans, one of Boston's more promising indie pop bands:
After some thought, we've decided that it's time to pack it in as the Also-Rans. It's actually a decision that came easy after the Denny's departure to California. We're just not the same band without him, and pushing on would probably have been half hearted at best.
In the spirit of full disclosure, we've uploaded all of our unreleased demo tracks to our Web site. Just visit the audio page, and make with the click and save.
We're really proud of most of these recordings. Some are works in progress, some might have been re-recorded for a full-length, and a couple others are just-for-fun covers of the likes of Small Factory and the Wedding Present. We're glad to finally be able to share 'em.
Before we go, there are a few people we'd like to thank... people that really did a lot for us as a band and as friends over the course of our all-too-brief existence.
Mr. Scott Sinclair put his faith, money, and time behind us, releasing our debut EP. Thanks, Sinc, and sorry about the coasters. Keep an ear and eye out for his band, the Model Sons.
Dave Norton of BakedBean.net and Certainly, Sir (and a ton of other former and future projects) helped us out a lot with shows and praise. It was appreciated, Dave.
Eric Masunaga & Ellie Lee deserve thanks for their kind words and support. We're grateful for the night at Oni, and the talk of future plans.
Much thanks to all the bands we shared a stage with, especially the boys from Pilot to Gunner and the Red & the Black.
To Amie and Megan goes our gratitude for the random roadie duties, the many rides, your forgiving ears, and for being at just about every show we ever played.
And lastly, our sincere thanks to our friends who stuck by us.
Happy holidays and our best to you in the impending new year.
Yours,
Matt, Mary, Chris, Denny, & Brad
I reviewed the band's EP in May, and while bummed they won't see any full-length recordings, I appreciate their offering the "back catalog" for download. Don't sit on songs people!
It's an Ad, Ad, Ad, Ad World XVIII
Jonathan Cohen of Damn Fine Writing ("taking the hell out of business writing") has written a 40-page e-booklet entitled Santa Claus Vs. the Marketers. It's a bit Who Moved My Cheese-ish, but given the holidays, the state of marketing and all, the story might be a fun Christmas read.
Jonathan Cohen of Damn Fine Writing ("taking the hell out of business writing") has written a 40-page e-booklet entitled Santa Claus Vs. the Marketers. It's a bit Who Moved My Cheese-ish, but given the holidays, the state of marketing and all, the story might be a fun Christmas read.
Thursday, December 19, 2002
Newsletters of Note V
Last week I received the 2002-2003 edition of Spoke & Word, Bikes Not Bombs' newsletter. An eight-page tabloid newspaper, the annual update includes features about the organizations' activities, including projects in Ghana and Cape Ann. The newsletter also offers information on Bikes Not Bombs' drop-in program, Earn-A-Bike effort, bicycle recycling activities, and youth alumni. One of the best-produced newsletters I've ever received from a nonprofit, the paper also shares a letter exchange that explains the organization's name, as well as some statistics about the U.S. military machine. Bikes Not Bombs is well worth the support of Media Dieticians.
Last week I received the 2002-2003 edition of Spoke & Word, Bikes Not Bombs' newsletter. An eight-page tabloid newspaper, the annual update includes features about the organizations' activities, including projects in Ghana and Cape Ann. The newsletter also offers information on Bikes Not Bombs' drop-in program, Earn-A-Bike effort, bicycle recycling activities, and youth alumni. One of the best-produced newsletters I've ever received from a nonprofit, the paper also shares a letter exchange that explains the organization's name, as well as some statistics about the U.S. military machine. Bikes Not Bombs is well worth the support of Media Dieticians.
Factsheet Life II
Factsheet 5's former publisher, Seth Friedman, doesn't maintain a blog. "I only have time for so many projects these days," he says. Regardless, Seth's been keeping an almost-quarterly schedule with an email roundup of his favorite URL's called Seth's Web Picks. Here's his Dec. 17 transmission, the "non-holiday-themed fourth installment."
Reprinted with permission.
Soundtrack: D.R.I., "Dirty Rotten" LP
Factsheet 5's former publisher, Seth Friedman, doesn't maintain a blog. "I only have time for so many projects these days," he says. Regardless, Seth's been keeping an almost-quarterly schedule with an email roundup of his favorite URL's called Seth's Web Picks. Here's his Dec. 17 transmission, the "non-holiday-themed fourth installment."
Wow, I'm almost keeping a zine-like schedule here. It's only been about three months since the last installment. Mostly fun stuff this time around, but we do start off with two more serious news-type links which I check into pretty regularly.
PR Watch is a great newsletter which keeps abreast of all the many things spun by PR agencies. Their "Daily Spin" is a like Project Censored, only it's updated nearly every day.
Memory Hole offers another bit of under reported news. What Russ Kick tries to do is keep track of information after it gets wiped away by the media censors.
Another fun Google-driven information tool. More fun that factual, Googlism offers definitions of things you though were beyond definition.
A couple of fun games, sure to pick you up if you are suffering from the Winter doldrums: Wrath and Pedestrian Killer.
Found Magazine kicks ass. If you can't get a copy, their web sight is the next best thing.
TouchGraph's GoogleBrowser is a very powerful graphical website organizational structure research tool type thing.
More fun stuff.
For computer geeks only -- especially tech support guys.
A nice personal project that is generously being shared with the entire world.
Most likely you've seen this one already. Nevertheless, it's still hilarious. I find myself returning to this page every time I see Michael Jackson's name mentioned somewhere.
Reprinted with permission.
Soundtrack: D.R.I., "Dirty Rotten" LP
Technofetishism XXIV
Tracking packages is a dangerous thing. Because I now know that my Sidekick arrived in East Boston 30 minutes ago. I'm not sure I needed to know that. I'm all a-twitter!
Soundtrack: The Southern Death Cult
Tracking packages is a dangerous thing. Because I now know that my Sidekick arrived in East Boston 30 minutes ago. I'm not sure I needed to know that. I'm all a-twitter!
Soundtrack: The Southern Death Cult
North End Moment XXXII
As I was walking back to the Scotch & Sirloin building after picking up lunch at Dino's, I was stopped by a man asking for directions. He needed to find a train station so he could take the T to East Boston. But what he really needed was a beer.
Today, the man had been released from prison. He had just served a two-month sentence for domestic assualt and battery. "Got into a fight with the wife," he said. Upon his release, he'd gone to a bank to withdraw some money, but then he got lost in the North End. And now, he needed a beer. "I was walking around, but every place I saw was some sort of fancy bistro."
When I began to describe how to get to a cozy, smoky, old-man dive bar past Haymarket behind the Union Oyster House, the man said, "You drink? Do you want to go get a beer?" I said no, that I couldn't, that I had to head back to work. When we got to North Washington Street, I decided that it'd be easier to point him toward North Station and the bars in that neighborhood -- like the Penalty Box, which might be open at this time of day. I also thought it might be better if he didn't see what building I worked in.
So we parted ways on North Washington Street. The man who'd just been released from prison heading to the Penalty Box for his beer. And I heading back to the Scotch & Sirloin building to eat my lunch... and write this.
As I was walking back to the Scotch & Sirloin building after picking up lunch at Dino's, I was stopped by a man asking for directions. He needed to find a train station so he could take the T to East Boston. But what he really needed was a beer.
Today, the man had been released from prison. He had just served a two-month sentence for domestic assualt and battery. "Got into a fight with the wife," he said. Upon his release, he'd gone to a bank to withdraw some money, but then he got lost in the North End. And now, he needed a beer. "I was walking around, but every place I saw was some sort of fancy bistro."
When I began to describe how to get to a cozy, smoky, old-man dive bar past Haymarket behind the Union Oyster House, the man said, "You drink? Do you want to go get a beer?" I said no, that I couldn't, that I had to head back to work. When we got to North Washington Street, I decided that it'd be easier to point him toward North Station and the bars in that neighborhood -- like the Penalty Box, which might be open at this time of day. I also thought it might be better if he didn't see what building I worked in.
So we parted ways on North Washington Street. The man who'd just been released from prison heading to the Penalty Box for his beer. And I heading back to the Scotch & Sirloin building to eat my lunch... and write this.
Anchormen, Aweigh! XI
The Anchormen went back to Q Division last night to mix a couple more songs for the forthcoming CD, A Nation of Interns. Between about 7 p.m. and 3 a.m., we completed two songs: "Audobon Park" and "Indecision." Here are some photographs from our previous mixing session.
What's behind the grey door?
Chris, doing bass-ic tracks
Abey meet world
Knob twiddlers Tom and Rafi
Blender envy
Guitar army
Our new drummer
The new rough mixes are available for your listening pleasure -- and feedback. Looks like we'll be heading back in by the end of the month.
Oh, if you run or work for one of those record label organizations and you think the Anchormen might be up your A&R alley, talk to us.
The Anchormen went back to Q Division last night to mix a couple more songs for the forthcoming CD, A Nation of Interns. Between about 7 p.m. and 3 a.m., we completed two songs: "Audobon Park" and "Indecision." Here are some photographs from our previous mixing session.
What's behind the grey door?
Chris, doing bass-ic tracks
Abey meet world
Knob twiddlers Tom and Rafi
Blender envy
Guitar army
Our new drummer
The new rough mixes are available for your listening pleasure -- and feedback. Looks like we'll be heading back in by the end of the month.
Oh, if you run or work for one of those record label organizations and you think the Anchormen might be up your A&R alley, talk to us.
From the In Box: Hail Santa!
A friend showed me your site. Real cool. Here is the scoop on me and my project. If you could not post my email adress that would save me a lot of problems. You know how it is. Merry Xmas! -- The Santa Is Real Tagger
A friend showed me your site. Real cool. Here is the scoop on me and my project. If you could not post my email adress that would save me a lot of problems. You know how it is. Merry Xmas! -- The Santa Is Real Tagger
Wednesday, December 18, 2002
Event-O-Dex XXVI
If you don't want to venture to JP for the Mary Reillys show at the Milky Way on Thursday, here's a Somerville-side option that's also alluring:
Thursday, Dec. 19: A Very Indie Pop Christmas with Seana Carmody, Shumai, and the Tardy at the Abbey Lounge in Somerville.
I'll be there, burning brightly on both ends before I leave for a quiet Christmas week in Wisconsin.
If you don't want to venture to JP for the Mary Reillys show at the Milky Way on Thursday, here's a Somerville-side option that's also alluring:
Thursday, Dec. 19: A Very Indie Pop Christmas with Seana Carmody, Shumai, and the Tardy at the Abbey Lounge in Somerville.
I'll be there, burning brightly on both ends before I leave for a quiet Christmas week in Wisconsin.
Sentient Friction II
Ever wonder what it looks like inside the offices of Tor Books? Ernest Lilley steps in.
Thanks to Leslie Turek.
Ever wonder what it looks like inside the offices of Tor Books? Ernest Lilley steps in.
Thanks to Leslie Turek.
Rock Shows of Note XLIX
After Anchormen practice at the Sound Museum, Chris, Jef, Tom, and I headed over to River Gods near Central Square for the Neptune listening party. Every Tuesday, this cozy pub hosts a listening party, as well as resident DJs drawing on people in local rock bands. Things start late, so we hung out standing in the crowded room until a corner table opened up.
Wait, you say, didn't Neptune just have a CD release party. Why, yes, they did. But Neptune has recently released two CDs, so they're celebrating in all sorts of ways. "Listening party" is a bit of a misnomer because the volume while they were spinning the disc was way too low -- and no one was really listening. Fact is, what we could hear could have been any band. Every song sounded different, and every song sounde like a different band. Not the best setting in which to listen to Neptune. It's arguable that they are first and foremost a live band, but it would have been nice to actually hear the record as record.
Still, lots of people came out, and the place was packed. Energy picked up a little around 11:30 p.m., when DJ Geisslah took the decks in the arched cubbyhole of a DJ booth. We stuck around for several records, including a Clash song that we initially mistook for Radio 4 (for shame!). Then we left, Tom and Chris home, and Jef to the Lizard Lounge for the Texas Governor show. I wasn't such a rock star. I headed home, read some of Nick Hornby's new book, and hit the hay.
After Anchormen practice at the Sound Museum, Chris, Jef, Tom, and I headed over to River Gods near Central Square for the Neptune listening party. Every Tuesday, this cozy pub hosts a listening party, as well as resident DJs drawing on people in local rock bands. Things start late, so we hung out standing in the crowded room until a corner table opened up.
Wait, you say, didn't Neptune just have a CD release party. Why, yes, they did. But Neptune has recently released two CDs, so they're celebrating in all sorts of ways. "Listening party" is a bit of a misnomer because the volume while they were spinning the disc was way too low -- and no one was really listening. Fact is, what we could hear could have been any band. Every song sounded different, and every song sounde like a different band. Not the best setting in which to listen to Neptune. It's arguable that they are first and foremost a live band, but it would have been nice to actually hear the record as record.
Still, lots of people came out, and the place was packed. Energy picked up a little around 11:30 p.m., when DJ Geisslah took the decks in the arched cubbyhole of a DJ booth. We stuck around for several records, including a Clash song that we initially mistook for Radio 4 (for shame!). Then we left, Tom and Chris home, and Jef to the Lizard Lounge for the Texas Governor show. I wasn't such a rock star. I headed home, read some of Nick Hornby's new book, and hit the hay.
Corollary: From the In Box: Blogging About Blogging XXXIX
Thanks for writing. It's great to hear that the ecosystem could help you out! Another good place to look for backups is the Google cache and Internet Archive, if you've been around a little while. -- Phillip Pearson
Yeah. I should've thought of the Internet Archive.
Thanks for writing. It's great to hear that the ecosystem could help you out! Another good place to look for backups is the Google cache and Internet Archive, if you've been around a little while. -- Phillip Pearson
Yeah. I should've thought of the Internet Archive.
Blogging About Blogging XLI
Kiruba Shankar interviews Cameron Marlow, creator of the much-loved Blogdex. In his ample spare time, Marlow blogs himself, and it seems that he, too, misses the Harvard Square Other Music.
Kiruba Shankar interviews Cameron Marlow, creator of the much-loved Blogdex. In his ample spare time, Marlow blogs himself, and it seems that he, too, misses the Harvard Square Other Music.
Music to My Eyes VI
Tilman Baumgaertel's interview with Amy Alexander, the "ubergeek" behind the b0timati0n project sheds some strong light on an interest tech-art activity. Equipped with an air mouse, mobile keyboard, and Mattel Power Glove, Amy Alexander performs live as a human search engine. By inputting search terms into her custom b0timati0n software, Alexander obtains results that she can then manipulate, animating them as psychedelic projections and other patterns. The b0timati0n Web site includes a slew of stills, as well as a couple of streaming videos of Alexander in action.
Tilman Baumgaertel's interview with Amy Alexander, the "ubergeek" behind the b0timati0n project sheds some strong light on an interest tech-art activity. Equipped with an air mouse, mobile keyboard, and Mattel Power Glove, Amy Alexander performs live as a human search engine. By inputting search terms into her custom b0timati0n software, Alexander obtains results that she can then manipulate, animating them as psychedelic projections and other patterns. The b0timati0n Web site includes a slew of stills, as well as a couple of streaming videos of Alexander in action.
Event-O-Dex XXV
I missed Supernova, much to my chagrin, but next spring brings what appears to be a promising gathering in Vienna, Austria. BlogTalk: A European Conference on Weblogs, is a conference slated to "inventory the current and emerging uses of blogs." The first day will focus on the personal and professional blogging experience, and the second day is more technically oriented, so only one day might pique my interest. But for 20 Euro, you can't beat it. I'm considering proposing a paper.
I missed Supernova, much to my chagrin, but next spring brings what appears to be a promising gathering in Vienna, Austria. BlogTalk: A European Conference on Weblogs, is a conference slated to "inventory the current and emerging uses of blogs." The first day will focus on the personal and professional blogging experience, and the second day is more technically oriented, so only one day might pique my interest. But for 20 Euro, you can't beat it. I'm considering proposing a paper.
Tuesday, December 17, 2002
Technofetishism XXIII
I shouldn't have checked. I shouldn't have checked! But Amazon indicates that my Sidekick has shipped. Oh, joy! They estimate that it'll arrive between Dec. 31 and Jan. 13, but I can't see how that can be right. It's Dec. 17. Maybe it'll even get here before I head home for Christmas.
Oh, Andrea. You were right this morning. My Sidekick has shipped!
I shouldn't have checked. I shouldn't have checked! But Amazon indicates that my Sidekick has shipped. Oh, joy! They estimate that it'll arrive between Dec. 31 and Jan. 13, but I can't see how that can be right. It's Dec. 17. Maybe it'll even get here before I head home for Christmas.
Oh, Andrea. You were right this morning. My Sidekick has shipped!
Blogging About Blogging XL
Extra large is right! Large and in charge. Thanks to the help of Media Dietician Joe Germuska, Blogger's own Evan Williams, and Myelin's Blogging Ecosystem cache, Media Diet seems to be back the way it was before the big Mozilla-Blogger blowout. Thank you for your patience, too. I'm surprised how thrown I was by Media Diet getting all goofy.
Extra large is right! Large and in charge. Thanks to the help of Media Dietician Joe Germuska, Blogger's own Evan Williams, and Myelin's Blogging Ecosystem cache, Media Diet seems to be back the way it was before the big Mozilla-Blogger blowout. Thank you for your patience, too. I'm surprised how thrown I was by Media Diet getting all goofy.
These Links Were Made for Breaking? VIII
Nick Denton recently gave props to Friendster, a new Ryze-like online networking service. On its face, Friendster seems to build on the legacy of ye olde Six Degrees, but I'm slightly frustrated.
One of the biggest opportunities for building social capital is the happenstance connection, the serendipitous introduction, the random interaction. And it seems that Friendster has built in the Web of trust concept to such an extent that you can only find, view the profiles of, and connect with people you already know -- or people they know.
This is perhaps a conscious design element, but because the service is in beta mode -- when you sign up, use the codeword "coke" -- I'm not sold on the concept. While I realize people appreciate the option of determining who can contact them and how -- think Net Deva -- I'm the kind of guy who'd appreciate an "open to anyone" option. (I've requested that Denton add me as a friend. We don't know each other, but we'll see whether blind contacts of existing members has any promise.)
As things are right now, I can either invite scads of people I already know to join the underpopulated service... or wallow in a state of blissful isolation. At least Joe's my friend. But I don't need Friendster to connect with Joe. Friendster, on the other hand, needs Joe and me.
Nick Denton recently gave props to Friendster, a new Ryze-like online networking service. On its face, Friendster seems to build on the legacy of ye olde Six Degrees, but I'm slightly frustrated.
One of the biggest opportunities for building social capital is the happenstance connection, the serendipitous introduction, the random interaction. And it seems that Friendster has built in the Web of trust concept to such an extent that you can only find, view the profiles of, and connect with people you already know -- or people they know.
This is perhaps a conscious design element, but because the service is in beta mode -- when you sign up, use the codeword "coke" -- I'm not sold on the concept. While I realize people appreciate the option of determining who can contact them and how -- think Net Deva -- I'm the kind of guy who'd appreciate an "open to anyone" option. (I've requested that Denton add me as a friend. We don't know each other, but we'll see whether blind contacts of existing members has any promise.)
As things are right now, I can either invite scads of people I already know to join the underpopulated service... or wallow in a state of blissful isolation. At least Joe's my friend. But I don't need Friendster to connect with Joe. Friendster, on the other hand, needs Joe and me.
That's How the Cookie Crumbles
On the back of my T pass for January, there's an ad for a cookie personality quiz. The upshot is that if I register my T pass number online, I could win some valuable prizes and parting gifts.
There's just one problem (outside of the idea of "registering" your T pass). This promotion with the MBTA is mentioned nowhere on the Patriots' Trail Girl Scout Council's Web site.
Searching for "cookie personality" and "MBTA" yields no mention of the contest or relationship. In fact, Girl Scout cookie sale information isn't even available on any of the top pages. Using the search engine, I can track down an inside page that says the sale starts in January, but you can't order cookies online -- and it seems odd that 14 days before the end of the year, the council hasn't started promoting cookie sales on their Web site.
I know, I know, get off the Girl Scouts' collective back, but really. This is how convergence fails. Maybe the Patriots' Trail Council should take some time on Thinking Day in February and reconsider how they advertise regional cookie sales. 'Cause the promotion on this month's T pass isn't worth anyone's while. And it's disappointing that what could have been an interesting T station to the Web traffic-driving experiment fell so flat so fast.
On the back of my T pass for January, there's an ad for a cookie personality quiz. The upshot is that if I register my T pass number online, I could win some valuable prizes and parting gifts.
There's just one problem (outside of the idea of "registering" your T pass). This promotion with the MBTA is mentioned nowhere on the Patriots' Trail Girl Scout Council's Web site.
Searching for "cookie personality" and "MBTA" yields no mention of the contest or relationship. In fact, Girl Scout cookie sale information isn't even available on any of the top pages. Using the search engine, I can track down an inside page that says the sale starts in January, but you can't order cookies online -- and it seems odd that 14 days before the end of the year, the council hasn't started promoting cookie sales on their Web site.
I know, I know, get off the Girl Scouts' collective back, but really. This is how convergence fails. Maybe the Patriots' Trail Council should take some time on Thinking Day in February and reconsider how they advertise regional cookie sales. 'Cause the promotion on this month's T pass isn't worth anyone's while. And it's disappointing that what could have been an interesting T station to the Web traffic-driving experiment fell so flat so fast.
Event-O-Dex XXIV
Mark Hurst of Good Experience is organizing what looks like a great conference in May. Gel will be a one-day exploration of what it means to create a good, meaningful, and authentic experience. Hurst's got the design elements knocked down -- the gathering will be held at the New York Historical Society, and speakers include people such as Stewart Butterfield of the 5K Contest, Andrew Rasiej of the Digital Club Network and MOUSE, and Richard Saul Wurman of TED fame. The entry fee is a bit steep for a one-day gig -- $500 -- but the conversations look promising.
Mark Hurst of Good Experience is organizing what looks like a great conference in May. Gel will be a one-day exploration of what it means to create a good, meaningful, and authentic experience. Hurst's got the design elements knocked down -- the gathering will be held at the New York Historical Society, and speakers include people such as Stewart Butterfield of the 5K Contest, Andrew Rasiej of the Digital Club Network and MOUSE, and Richard Saul Wurman of TED fame. The entry fee is a bit steep for a one-day gig -- $500 -- but the conversations look promising.
Blogging About Blogging XXXIX
Thank the gods for the existence of services like Myelin's Blogging Ecosystem. The project caches select pages, and I was able to snag the source code for the Dec. 10 Media Diet entries.
Myelin saved much of my bacon just now, and all that's left is fixing the permalink and archiving code. Media Diet's almost back on the attack!
Thank the gods for the existence of services like Myelin's Blogging Ecosystem. The project caches select pages, and I was able to snag the source code for the Dec. 10 Media Diet entries.
Myelin saved much of my bacon just now, and all that's left is fixing the permalink and archiving code. Media Diet's almost back on the attack!
Coming Comics
Yesterday I got a postcard in the mail from Highwater Books' Tom Devlin announcing the publication of Marc Bell's Shrimpy and Paul and Friends. (I reviewed Bell's mini "There Is Nothing!" in March.) The first book collection of Bell's comics comprises more than 160 pages of Shrimpy, his best friend Paul, and others. There's even a 16-page color scrapbook. Can't wait to get my hands on this! Brilliant, Tom. Keep 'em comin'.
Yesterday I got a postcard in the mail from Highwater Books' Tom Devlin announcing the publication of Marc Bell's Shrimpy and Paul and Friends. (I reviewed Bell's mini "There Is Nothing!" in March.) The first book collection of Bell's comics comprises more than 160 pages of Shrimpy, his best friend Paul, and others. There's even a 16-page color scrapbook. Can't wait to get my hands on this! Brilliant, Tom. Keep 'em comin'.
Mix Tapeology
Pure Content's Sean O'Brien mentions a June 2002 Mojo magazine article about some research done on the nature and effect of mix tapes.
Two researchers from Hamburg University's Ethnological Institute studied almost 150 mix tapes compiled by about 100 people, including an 80-year-old man. The study found that compilation tapes can be used to communicate potentially tricky emotions; that mix tape makers have an affinity for "concept" collections, in which all the songs -- though stylistically different -- share a common musical theme; and that men find the mixed tape a potent way to share emotions. Nick Hornby, come on down!
After a quick search, I can't find any Web remnants of this study. Does anyone have a lead on the text of the actual research report? Might make interesting reading.
Pure Content's Sean O'Brien mentions a June 2002 Mojo magazine article about some research done on the nature and effect of mix tapes.
Two researchers from Hamburg University's Ethnological Institute studied almost 150 mix tapes compiled by about 100 people, including an 80-year-old man. The study found that compilation tapes can be used to communicate potentially tricky emotions; that mix tape makers have an affinity for "concept" collections, in which all the songs -- though stylistically different -- share a common musical theme; and that men find the mixed tape a potent way to share emotions. Nick Hornby, come on down!
After a quick search, I can't find any Web remnants of this study. Does anyone have a lead on the text of the actual research report? Might make interesting reading.
Hail Santa!
In addition to the "Santa Is Real" stencil art that's been popping up all around Boston, my friend Hiromi reports that on Central Square, a sticker that once read the same has been, shall we say, rearranged. From her email blog:
She was particularly upset by this because the stickers had been placed at children's eye level. Just great. Now we're gonna have a new generation of preteen Satanists to contend with. Just what I needed.
In addition to the "Santa Is Real" stencil art that's been popping up all around Boston, my friend Hiromi reports that on Central Square, a sticker that once read the same has been, shall we say, rearranged. From her email blog:
Update on "Santa is Real"... Apparently, neighborhood hoodlums bastardized several of the stickers posted around Central Square and rearranged the letters so, now not only is Santa real, but "Satan is Real" as well.
She was particularly upset by this because the stickers had been placed at children's eye level. Just great. Now we're gonna have a new generation of preteen Satanists to contend with. Just what I needed.
Science-Fiction Spam
In the in box early this morning:
Funny stuff, but not funny enough to validate my email address by contacting him to learn who he is. Any Media Dieticians got the 411?
In the in box early this morning:
If you are a reliable supplier of the below equipment, I am going to need the following:
1. A mind warper generation 4 Dimensional Warp Generator # 52 4350a series wrist watch with memory adapter.
2. The special 23200 series time transducing capacitor with built in temporal displacement.
While these time pieces normally go between $5,000-$7,000 a piece, I am having a hard time finding a reliable supplier.
Teleport to me within the next 48 Earth hours, and I will pay $40,000 2002 U.S. cash. Please only reply if you are reliable. Send a (separate) email to me.
Funny stuff, but not funny enough to validate my email address by contacting him to learn who he is. Any Media Dieticians got the 411?
Monday, December 16, 2002
Corollary: Blogging About Blogging XXXVIII
Nothing against Blogger, and nothing against Mozilla, but I'm pretty pissed off about what's happened to Media Diet. We'll see how long it takes me to repair the damage that Mozilla did, hey?
Please forgive our appearance during construction. Any further griping will find a home in my new blog Heath's Testy Test. I'll try to spare Media Dieticians my angst.
Nothing against Blogger, and nothing against Mozilla, but I'm pretty pissed off about what's happened to Media Diet. We'll see how long it takes me to repair the damage that Mozilla did, hey?
Please forgive our appearance during construction. Any further griping will find a home in my new blog Heath's Testy Test. I'll try to spare Media Dieticians my angst.
Blogging About Blogging XXXVIII
Evan says that what happened to Media Diet is a known bug in Mozilla and that he and others are working on a Blogger workaround. Ev also says that they thought the Mozilla bug had been fixed and that the bug only asserts itself if you have specific code in your Blogger template. I guess I had that code. Fingers crossed that we'll get back on an even keel soon.
Evan says that what happened to Media Diet is a known bug in Mozilla and that he and others are working on a Blogger workaround. Ev also says that they thought the Mozilla bug had been fixed and that the bug only asserts itself if you have specific code in your Blogger template. I guess I had that code. Fingers crossed that we'll get back on an even keel soon.
Event-O-Dex XXIII
Lots of indie rock outlets this week!
Tuesday, Dec. 17: Choo Choo la Rouge, Jennifer O'Connor, Torrez, and the Texas Governor at the Lizard Lounge in Cambridge.
Thursday, Dec. 19: The Mary Reillys, the Pills, and the Tint at the Milky Way in Jamaica Plain.
Friday, Dec. 20: The Ruby Lashes, Photoflash, the Charms, and Rick Barton & the Shadowblasters at the Middle East Upstairs in Cambridge.
Lots of indie rock outlets this week!
Tuesday, Dec. 17: Choo Choo la Rouge, Jennifer O'Connor, Torrez, and the Texas Governor at the Lizard Lounge in Cambridge.
Thursday, Dec. 19: The Mary Reillys, the Pills, and the Tint at the Milky Way in Jamaica Plain.
Friday, Dec. 20: The Ruby Lashes, Photoflash, the Charms, and Rick Barton & the Shadowblasters at the Middle East Upstairs in Cambridge.
Blogging About Blogging XXXVII
I don't know what I just did to so drastically change the template of Media Diet, but I do know this. The Creative Commons Licensing Project is a good thing. And as soon as I can add notification of my license to Media Diet without botching the design, it'll be even better.
Seems, now that I'm poking around a little, that it's not the Commons at all, but that Blogger's templates have mysteriously stripped many of the links within Media Diet's framework. Even the Home and Archives links show up with link tags but none of the href's that certainly accompanied them previously. I'll email Evan and see what's what.
I don't know what I just did to so drastically change the template of Media Diet, but I do know this. The Creative Commons Licensing Project is a good thing. And as soon as I can add notification of my license to Media Diet without botching the design, it'll be even better.
Seems, now that I'm poking around a little, that it's not the Commons at all, but that Blogger's templates have mysteriously stripped many of the links within Media Diet's framework. Even the Home and Archives links show up with link tags but none of the href's that certainly accompanied them previously. I'll email Evan and see what's what.
Technofetishism XXII
I know I've gone back and forth between Opera and IE as my default browser of choice, but I just downloaded Mozilla and am going to poke around with this for awhile. I really like the ability of having multiple pages open -- and being able to tab back and forth between them. Pretty nifty.
I know I've gone back and forth between Opera and IE as my default browser of choice, but I just downloaded Mozilla and am going to poke around with this for awhile. I really like the ability of having multiple pages open -- and being able to tab back and forth between them. Pretty nifty.
Workaday World IX
While much of Inc. has moved to New York City, some of the staff is remaining in Boston. Those folks moved at the end of last week from their old Commercial Wharf digs to the Fast Company offices. It's good that the moving chaos is over, and it's nice to hear some new voices and see some new faces in the Scotch & Sirloin building.
While much of Inc. has moved to New York City, some of the staff is remaining in Boston. Those folks moved at the end of last week from their old Commercial Wharf digs to the Fast Company offices. It's good that the moving chaos is over, and it's nice to hear some new voices and see some new faces in the Scotch & Sirloin building.
Technofetishism XXI
OK, I caved. I just ordered a T-Mobile Sidekick so I can join the ranks of Hiptop Nation. Playing around with MacStumbler this weekend with Cory, I found that I can't really piggyback on any networks in the neighborhood because of my PowerBook's wireless reception. I might explore getting an external wireless card and RF antenna to see what's what, but for now, I think the Sidekick will be just fine.
Not since the iPod have I been so impressed by the design of a consumer electronics product. The Sidekick is basically the Web in your pocket. You can use it as a mail client -- keeping received emails on the server so you can still access them on your laptop or desktop -- and the Web browser is surprisingly efficient and easy to use. Googling from Cory's Sidekick on Friday night saved our bacon and got us to the Scrapple show. And in lieu of trucking my laptop home every night -- and then back again on the crowded T come morning -- I think that the Sidekick will meet all of my information junkie joneses. Especially since I can't really synch Pod2Go at home in the morning. Ah. Maybe it's time I invest in some of that high-speed Internet access at home. I'll need to cut some other costs to balance that, I think.
The only real problem is that the Sidekick won't ship until Dec. 24. I'm out of town until the 27th, so fingers crossed that it's here upon my return. Because seriously? I almost miss Cory's Sidekick more than I miss Cory.
OK, I caved. I just ordered a T-Mobile Sidekick so I can join the ranks of Hiptop Nation. Playing around with MacStumbler this weekend with Cory, I found that I can't really piggyback on any networks in the neighborhood because of my PowerBook's wireless reception. I might explore getting an external wireless card and RF antenna to see what's what, but for now, I think the Sidekick will be just fine.
Not since the iPod have I been so impressed by the design of a consumer electronics product. The Sidekick is basically the Web in your pocket. You can use it as a mail client -- keeping received emails on the server so you can still access them on your laptop or desktop -- and the Web browser is surprisingly efficient and easy to use. Googling from Cory's Sidekick on Friday night saved our bacon and got us to the Scrapple show. And in lieu of trucking my laptop home every night -- and then back again on the crowded T come morning -- I think that the Sidekick will meet all of my information junkie joneses. Especially since I can't really synch Pod2Go at home in the morning. Ah. Maybe it's time I invest in some of that high-speed Internet access at home. I'll need to cut some other costs to balance that, I think.
The only real problem is that the Sidekick won't ship until Dec. 24. I'm out of town until the 27th, so fingers crossed that it's here upon my return. Because seriously? I almost miss Cory's Sidekick more than I miss Cory.
Happy Birthday to Media Dieticians X
An email transmitted to Dave Farber's IP mailing list indicates that the 20th anniversary of the Net may very well be Jan. 1, 2003. Yet another reason to party like it's 2K2 come New Year's!
An email transmitted to Dave Farber's IP mailing list indicates that the 20th anniversary of the Net may very well be Jan. 1, 2003. Yet another reason to party like it's 2K2 come New Year's!
Saturday, December 14, 2002
Digital Drive-Through
The University of Massachusetts-Amherst's human performance laboratory in the department of mechanical and industrial engineering has developed several video animations of the as yet unfinished tunnels beneath Boston. There are three video segments, one simulating the trip east on I-90 toward the airport, and two simulating I-93 north and south. I downloaded the I-90 clip, which clocks in at 5 minutes, and the video's really pretty cool! The animation slows down near traffic signs so you can get your bearings, and the HPL team paid attention to some pretty nifty details, including a white tile design in the second stretch of I-90 tunnel and the photo-realistic representations of buildings actually along the route. My one complaint is that there isn't a soundtrack. The videos are a little long for no music. But no worries. You can always call up RadioVW.
The University of Massachusetts-Amherst's human performance laboratory in the department of mechanical and industrial engineering has developed several video animations of the as yet unfinished tunnels beneath Boston. There are three video segments, one simulating the trip east on I-90 toward the airport, and two simulating I-93 north and south. I downloaded the I-90 clip, which clocks in at 5 minutes, and the video's really pretty cool! The animation slows down near traffic signs so you can get your bearings, and the HPL team paid attention to some pretty nifty details, including a white tile design in the second stretch of I-90 tunnel and the photo-realistic representations of buildings actually along the route. My one complaint is that there isn't a soundtrack. The videos are a little long for no music. But no worries. You can always call up RadioVW.
Rock Shows of Note XLVIII
After meeting up with Cory last night -- and persuading him that he should at least check out a little of Scrapple's Christmas show, we hopped on the T and headed to Bay Village. I haven't been to Jacque's since the Queens & Zines fest I helped organize in 1997 when the folks behind Bunnyhop, Ben Is Dead, and Genetic Disorder hopped in an RV and traveled across the country. (I helped paint the basement, and I'm sad to report that they've since repainted it.) And I always have trouble finding it. True to form, Cory and I wandered around an eerily similar street corner a couple of blocks over from Jacque's before we were finally able to make our way to the space.
Upstairs, Jacque's is a drag bar. It's been an epicenter for Boston's queer community since before Stonewall, and just when you think that it and the neighborhood surrounding it would finally have figured out how to peacefully coexist, word is that people living in the area are pressuring the city and management yet again. Downstairs from the bar's stage area, in a smaller space, there are occasionally rock shows. Last night, it was the Scrapple Christmas show, a CD release party for Neptune, and a performance by New York-based Big Boote (pronounced "bootay").
First up, Big Boote, an energetic if somewhat sludgy four piece. Reminding me of a combination of Slot Machine and Double Dong, the band is fronted by a lanky, spastic singer who trades off well with the diminuitive guitarist. Lyrically, Big Boote leans toward potty jokes, but there were several interesting numbers. The duet children's song about the cow that went to the moon was awesome, and the songs in which the singer utilized various vocal styles, including falsetto, were quite interesting.
Then came Neptune. I've gone back and forth with Neptune, but last night I loved them. Yeah yeah yeah, scrap metal rock. Yeah yeah, we make our own instruments. Yeah. But last night the band opted for a less arty set and focused instead on a brash selection of their post-punk meets post-jazz Fugazi-like skronk. And the crowd responded quite well. Plenty of dancing and shaking going on as the front man held forth with dramatic flair. Brilliant! There were also more cute girls at this show than any show I've gone to in recent days. What's up with that?
Lastly, Scrapple. Oh, Scrapple and your brand of sexy popera. The Christmas show was an extravaganza indeed. The band opened with Chris and Lisa dressed in nightgowns, eagerly greeting Dave's sleazy Santa. Jef and Chris (a different Chris, lest you be confused) held forth as gangster rap-styled hoodlum reindoors. And the music rocked. Combining bluesy rock with faster almost-punk bits and musical-styled stage theatrics, this was a great way to continue to count down to Christmas. Fun!
After meeting up with Cory last night -- and persuading him that he should at least check out a little of Scrapple's Christmas show, we hopped on the T and headed to Bay Village. I haven't been to Jacque's since the Queens & Zines fest I helped organize in 1997 when the folks behind Bunnyhop, Ben Is Dead, and Genetic Disorder hopped in an RV and traveled across the country. (I helped paint the basement, and I'm sad to report that they've since repainted it.) And I always have trouble finding it. True to form, Cory and I wandered around an eerily similar street corner a couple of blocks over from Jacque's before we were finally able to make our way to the space.
Upstairs, Jacque's is a drag bar. It's been an epicenter for Boston's queer community since before Stonewall, and just when you think that it and the neighborhood surrounding it would finally have figured out how to peacefully coexist, word is that people living in the area are pressuring the city and management yet again. Downstairs from the bar's stage area, in a smaller space, there are occasionally rock shows. Last night, it was the Scrapple Christmas show, a CD release party for Neptune, and a performance by New York-based Big Boote (pronounced "bootay").
First up, Big Boote, an energetic if somewhat sludgy four piece. Reminding me of a combination of Slot Machine and Double Dong, the band is fronted by a lanky, spastic singer who trades off well with the diminuitive guitarist. Lyrically, Big Boote leans toward potty jokes, but there were several interesting numbers. The duet children's song about the cow that went to the moon was awesome, and the songs in which the singer utilized various vocal styles, including falsetto, were quite interesting.
Then came Neptune. I've gone back and forth with Neptune, but last night I loved them. Yeah yeah yeah, scrap metal rock. Yeah yeah, we make our own instruments. Yeah. But last night the band opted for a less arty set and focused instead on a brash selection of their post-punk meets post-jazz Fugazi-like skronk. And the crowd responded quite well. Plenty of dancing and shaking going on as the front man held forth with dramatic flair. Brilliant! There were also more cute girls at this show than any show I've gone to in recent days. What's up with that?
Lastly, Scrapple. Oh, Scrapple and your brand of sexy popera. The Christmas show was an extravaganza indeed. The band opened with Chris and Lisa dressed in nightgowns, eagerly greeting Dave's sleazy Santa. Jef and Chris (a different Chris, lest you be confused) held forth as gangster rap-styled hoodlum reindoors. And the music rocked. Combining bluesy rock with faster almost-punk bits and musical-styled stage theatrics, this was a great way to continue to count down to Christmas. Fun!
Technofetishism XX
Whenever Cory visits, I feel a little technologically backward. As parallel as our paths might be -- and as often as they intersect -- Cory is lightyears ahead of me in terms of technology and related culture. Lightyears. So today's downloads are a little bit of catch up. Signing up for VersionTracker, I've found several goodies.
Pod2Go might be my favorite so far. This cheery little app enables you to download news feeds, weather reports, stock quotes, and other text to your iPod for reading while you're on the go. Newsfeeds include BBC News, CNN, Wired News, Slashdot, and TidBITS, and you can pinpoint your weather reports -- include sunrise and sunset times -- by ZIP code. I think this will be a wonderful tool.
PodWorks seems to improve on xPod and PodUtil's functionality and basically helps you download MP3 files from iPods to your laptop or desktop. It's shareware, so I plunked down the $12 to help the cause, but I've had some trouble launching the app so far. It might be because I'm currently charging my iPod, but I might have to contact the makers to get my money's worth.
Lastly, MacStumbler. While I wasn't able to get a wireless network connection on the big blue couch or at the kitchen table previously, Cory's been able to detect and use no fewer than eight networks in the neighborhood. He says it might be because the wireless reception of the iBook is better than that of the TiBook, but I've snagged this wireless network detector to see what's what. If I'm able to gain access to a network in the neighborhood, that will be a good, good thing indeed.
Whenever Cory visits, I feel a little technologically backward. As parallel as our paths might be -- and as often as they intersect -- Cory is lightyears ahead of me in terms of technology and related culture. Lightyears. So today's downloads are a little bit of catch up. Signing up for VersionTracker, I've found several goodies.
Pod2Go might be my favorite so far. This cheery little app enables you to download news feeds, weather reports, stock quotes, and other text to your iPod for reading while you're on the go. Newsfeeds include BBC News, CNN, Wired News, Slashdot, and TidBITS, and you can pinpoint your weather reports -- include sunrise and sunset times -- by ZIP code. I think this will be a wonderful tool.
PodWorks seems to improve on xPod and PodUtil's functionality and basically helps you download MP3 files from iPods to your laptop or desktop. It's shareware, so I plunked down the $12 to help the cause, but I've had some trouble launching the app so far. It might be because I'm currently charging my iPod, but I might have to contact the makers to get my money's worth.
Lastly, MacStumbler. While I wasn't able to get a wireless network connection on the big blue couch or at the kitchen table previously, Cory's been able to detect and use no fewer than eight networks in the neighborhood. He says it might be because the wireless reception of the iBook is better than that of the TiBook, but I've snagged this wireless network detector to see what's what. If I'm able to gain access to a network in the neighborhood, that will be a good, good thing indeed.
North End Moment XXXI
It's raining today, and I'm alone again in the office downloading some software and putzing around while Cory gets a massage (his back's been bothering him). In any event, before I entered the Scotch & Sirloin building, I was greeted by these little fellows, propped up in the window of the copy shop on the first floor.
What a cheery holiday hair clip! The fellas are in my coat pocket now, and I'm thinking that I might prop them up in other places to help them spread their holiday happiness.
It's raining today, and I'm alone again in the office downloading some software and putzing around while Cory gets a massage (his back's been bothering him). In any event, before I entered the Scotch & Sirloin building, I was greeted by these little fellows, propped up in the window of the copy shop on the first floor.
What a cheery holiday hair clip! The fellas are in my coat pocket now, and I'm thinking that I might prop them up in other places to help them spread their holiday happiness.
Friday, December 13, 2002
Music in Your Mouth
Last night, after finishing Christmas cards, I spent some time on the big blue couch browsing through the Cadence Music Sale catalog in the center of the current issue of Cadence Magazine. Having just received a shipment of discs from them including Mat Maneri, Ken Vandermark, the Either/Orchestra, David S. Ware, and Jeb Bishop, I'm going to hold off on placing another order for awhile. But as I was going through the small-print catalog, I caught myself speaking out loud in bewilderment, exclamation, and question. I never talk to myself! So I captured some of my ephemeral exhalations just for kicks. Here's what I said out loud while flipping through the Cadence Music Sale. If anything, perhaps it'll give you some ideas of what to get me for Christmas.
Last night, after finishing Christmas cards, I spent some time on the big blue couch browsing through the Cadence Music Sale catalog in the center of the current issue of Cadence Magazine. Having just received a shipment of discs from them including Mat Maneri, Ken Vandermark, the Either/Orchestra, David S. Ware, and Jeb Bishop, I'm going to hold off on placing another order for awhile. But as I was going through the small-print catalog, I caught myself speaking out loud in bewilderment, exclamation, and question. I never talk to myself! So I captured some of my ephemeral exhalations just for kicks. Here's what I said out loud while flipping through the Cadence Music Sale. If anything, perhaps it'll give you some ideas of what to get me for Christmas.
"That's really weird!" (on the fact that a jazz band called Beeblebrox involved no recognizable names) "How expensive is Y?" (on the price of a Han Bennink 1973 recording) "Steve Beresford? Why does he play with such shit people?" (on, well) "Huh!" (on Jeb Bishop's "Chicago Defenders" recording, which I just received) "Hmm..." (on Hamiet Bluiett's project with Fred Hopkins) "Please!" (on ensembles named after the city of Boston that don't involve notable area free jazz players) "Huh!" (on a Boxhead Ensemble recording not involving Ken Vandermark) "Wow!" (on the Peter Brotzmann recordings with Joe McPhee, Mats Gustafsson, and Ken Vandermark) "That's seasonal!" (on the Dave Brubeck "Christmas" recording) "Who are they?" (On B. Shops for the Poor's No Wave recordings) "OK, John Butcher's not shit." (on Steve Beresford's appearance on "All Angels Concert") "U is $11?" (on a cheap John Cage find) "Oh, that's a comp!" (on a Knitting Factory Works record featuring Uri Caine, David Ware, and the Residents) "Feh!" (on Tom Chapin's recordings) "3W!" (on the price of the four-CD Nat King Cole "MacGregor's '41-'45" project, which features Anita O'Day) "What is this?" (on the Company 91 recordings) "No one should call their bands contemporary. Contemporary means shit!" (on, well) "Schmoheme." (on a Boheme recording of jazz accordionist Vlad Danilin) "Oh, that's a comp!" (on a Knitting Factory Works record featuring Defunkt, Eugene Chadbourne, and Arto Lindsay) "That's cool!" (on the Mark Dresser soundtrack for "Cabinet of Dr. Caligari" with Dave Douglas) "That's shit!" (on a band called Dr. Pop and the Noise) "That's good!" (on an Ellery Eskelin recording with Mat Maneri, Erik Friedlander, and Mark Dresser) "Wow!" (on the Exzoskeleton Quartet record with Weasel Walter and Shrapnel) "I saw him on the T yesterday!" (on a Ken Field recording) "That's rare?" (on an asterisked Michael Formanek solo bass record) "Harry the hipster?" (on a self-titled Gibson record on Delmark) "Yeah!" (on Mats Gustafsson records with Ken Vandermark and Kurt Newman) "Hey! That's near my birthday!" (on Abdullah Ibrahim's "Ancient Africa" recording)
Mention Me! XXII
Two referral log shout outs:
m4dbl0g lists Media Diet among their bookmarks for Personalities blogs
Arab on Radar includes my March 1 commentary on "Yahweh or the Highway" in their roundup of reviews
Two referral log shout outs:
Blogging About Blogging XXXVI
CIO doesn't put its new issues up on the Web to synch up with when they hit subscribers' mail boxes, so I'm at a bit of a loss. Regardless, Daintry Duffy contributes a short piece entitled "Blogging for Bucks" as part of CIO's year-end feature on ideas for 2003. And it pushed a couple of buttons with me.
In the opening paragraph, Duffy seems to confuse blogs with discussion forums, contending that "people who visit Salon.com no longer have to verbalize their vitriolic disagreement. They can chronicle their thoughts about an article ... in their own Web log ... on the site." Sure, Salon now offers blogs, but it also offers a discussion forum -- Table Talk -- a forum in which Salon readers have long been able to discuss articles and chronicle their thoughts.
Secondly, Duffy seems to have her history slightly wrong. She claims that blogs "first gained popularity on news sites like Salon.com, Slate and MSNBC.com," but I'm pretty sure that blogs hit the mainstream and the public eye before Salon started offering its blog service.
And finally, while Duffy spends the bulk of the piece considering how companies such as Macromedia (which was also recently covered by Wired News) can use blogs as sales, marketing, communications, and customer service tools -- which is all very true, as people who track such things (like Phil Wolff) can attest -- Duffy's conclusion that corporate blogs' potential firmly rests in marketing leaves me cold.
The true potential for corporate blogs is not in sales and marketing. It's in knowledge management and communications, internal and external, I'd wager. If that's what marketing really is, sign me up. But Duffy's focus on marketing might lead CIO's to fall into a trap that I previously warned CIO readers about in a 1997 article about online communities, as well as in a book review of John Hagel III and Marc Singer's Net Gain, which I can't find online.
In that review, I cautioned against confusing customers with communities -- and commercials with conversation. Duffy's piece, though short, gives short shrift to the power of conversation and community, opting instead to highlight a new way to push commercials to potential and existing customers.
CIO doesn't put its new issues up on the Web to synch up with when they hit subscribers' mail boxes, so I'm at a bit of a loss. Regardless, Daintry Duffy contributes a short piece entitled "Blogging for Bucks" as part of CIO's year-end feature on ideas for 2003. And it pushed a couple of buttons with me.
In the opening paragraph, Duffy seems to confuse blogs with discussion forums, contending that "people who visit Salon.com no longer have to verbalize their vitriolic disagreement. They can chronicle their thoughts about an article ... in their own Web log ... on the site." Sure, Salon now offers blogs, but it also offers a discussion forum -- Table Talk -- a forum in which Salon readers have long been able to discuss articles and chronicle their thoughts.
Secondly, Duffy seems to have her history slightly wrong. She claims that blogs "first gained popularity on news sites like Salon.com, Slate and MSNBC.com," but I'm pretty sure that blogs hit the mainstream and the public eye before Salon started offering its blog service.
And finally, while Duffy spends the bulk of the piece considering how companies such as Macromedia (which was also recently covered by Wired News) can use blogs as sales, marketing, communications, and customer service tools -- which is all very true, as people who track such things (like Phil Wolff) can attest -- Duffy's conclusion that corporate blogs' potential firmly rests in marketing leaves me cold.
The true potential for corporate blogs is not in sales and marketing. It's in knowledge management and communications, internal and external, I'd wager. If that's what marketing really is, sign me up. But Duffy's focus on marketing might lead CIO's to fall into a trap that I previously warned CIO readers about in a 1997 article about online communities, as well as in a book review of John Hagel III and Marc Singer's Net Gain, which I can't find online.
In that review, I cautioned against confusing customers with communities -- and commercials with conversation. Duffy's piece, though short, gives short shrift to the power of conversation and community, opting instead to highlight a new way to push commercials to potential and existing customers.
These Links Were Made for Breaking? VII
The fine folks at RTMark recently distributed a news release about how Web activists are taking on corporate misbehavior at organizations such as Dow Chemical and Burson-Marsteller -- and how those organizations are trying to quash their online activism.
The recent online actions criticizing Dow and Burson-Marsteller go beyond traditional parody Web sites and related online commentary, some of which I've commented on previously in Media Diet. (See The Days of Whiners and Posers and The Days of Whiners and Posers II.)
Additional Resources:
Sucks 500
Fuck Microsoft
Home Depot Sucks
Delta Sucks
Prepaidlegal Sucks
The fine folks at RTMark recently distributed a news release about how Web activists are taking on corporate misbehavior at organizations such as Dow Chemical and Burson-Marsteller -- and how those organizations are trying to quash their online activism.
The recent online actions criticizing Dow and Burson-Marsteller go beyond traditional parody Web sites and related online commentary, some of which I've commented on previously in Media Diet. (See The Days of Whiners and Posers and The Days of Whiners and Posers II.)
Additional Resources:
Big Brother Is Watching VIII
Dec. 24 is World Sousveillance Day, a Buy Nothing Day-like observance organized in part by Steve Mann, who seems to have coined the term "sousveillance. If "surveillance" is watchful vigilance from above -- the increasing proliferation of security cameras, facial feature scanners, and other surveillance technologies -- "sousveillance" is watchful vigilance from below: watching the watchers.
Mann makes a distinction between in-band sousveillance -- subveillance -- and truly subversive sousveillance. Toll-free "How's my driving?" phone numbers on the backs of semi trucks is one thing, but sousveillance-oriented monitoring activities such as Copwatch are another thing entirely. Because more often than not, the watchers don't appreciate being watched.
Thanks to Weblogsky.
Dec. 24 is World Sousveillance Day, a Buy Nothing Day-like observance organized in part by Steve Mann, who seems to have coined the term "sousveillance. If "surveillance" is watchful vigilance from above -- the increasing proliferation of security cameras, facial feature scanners, and other surveillance technologies -- "sousveillance" is watchful vigilance from below: watching the watchers.
Mann makes a distinction between in-band sousveillance -- subveillance -- and truly subversive sousveillance. Toll-free "How's my driving?" phone numbers on the backs of semi trucks is one thing, but sousveillance-oriented monitoring activities such as Copwatch are another thing entirely. Because more often than not, the watchers don't appreciate being watched.
Thanks to Weblogsky.
Music to My Ears XXI
Justin's lady Jane is in a band called Dealership. Nice three-piece pleasant pop in the vein of the Twee Kitten kids.
Justin's lady Jane is in a band called Dealership. Nice three-piece pleasant pop in the vein of the Twee Kitten kids.
Event-O-Dex XXII
For lack of a better heading, because this is less of an event notice and more of a look at the role that plagiarism and detourning commercial imagery plays in art. Earlier this month, Stay Free! ended its run of the Illegal Art exhibit in New York City, and it's moving to Chicago next month. Even if you don't live in either locale, you can still spend a lot of time exploring the audio, video, and other art included in the project.
Videos included in the screenings are available for viewing online, including a Negativland video created by a Disney employee and Todd Haynes' Barbie-starred ""Superstar: The Karen Carpenter Story." Visual elements include Wally Wood's notorious 1967 poster "Disneyland Memorial Orgy," Natalka Husar's parodies of Harlequin romance novel covers, the now-defunct Bunnyhop's classic Binky vs. Trix Rabbit cover that was quashed by Matt Groening, Kieron Dwyer's parody of the Starbucks logo, and Brian Boling's detourned zine Dysfunctional Family Circus.
There's also a wonderful online bibliography of articles that touch on the topic of intellectual property, parody, copyleft, and other related subjects. Kudos to all involved!
Thanks to Media Dietician Mike Hibarger.
For lack of a better heading, because this is less of an event notice and more of a look at the role that plagiarism and detourning commercial imagery plays in art. Earlier this month, Stay Free! ended its run of the Illegal Art exhibit in New York City, and it's moving to Chicago next month. Even if you don't live in either locale, you can still spend a lot of time exploring the audio, video, and other art included in the project.
Videos included in the screenings are available for viewing online, including a Negativland video created by a Disney employee and Todd Haynes' Barbie-starred ""Superstar: The Karen Carpenter Story." Visual elements include Wally Wood's notorious 1967 poster "Disneyland Memorial Orgy," Natalka Husar's parodies of Harlequin romance novel covers, the now-defunct Bunnyhop's classic Binky vs. Trix Rabbit cover that was quashed by Matt Groening, Kieron Dwyer's parody of the Starbucks logo, and Brian Boling's detourned zine Dysfunctional Family Circus.
There's also a wonderful online bibliography of articles that touch on the topic of intellectual property, parody, copyleft, and other related subjects. Kudos to all involved!
Thanks to Media Dietician Mike Hibarger.
'Tis the Season to Go... Postal
Last night, I camped out on the big blue couch listening to the Replacements and X to finish this year's Christmas card mailing. I've gone back and forth the last few years, wavering between Christmas cards and a New Year's letter to friends and family, but this year I'm kind of thinking both. Maybe. I did a draft of a Year That Was chronology last night and seem to have lost a month. What the heck did I do in August?
In any event, last year I sent about 40 Christmas cards. This year, so far, I've mailed about 75. Why the increase? In 2001, my graduating high school class held a 10-year reunion in Wisconsin. I didn't mail old friends from high school last Christmas, but thanks to a Web directory developed by one of my classmates, I did so this year. Also, this past year, I ordered the print edition of Northwestern University's alumni directory. That hulking beast of a book helped me track down scads of old friends from college, Sig Ep, WNUR-FM, and the Daily.
So I'm up to 75 and thinking I still need to track some stragglers down. Christmas cards are an interesting project. I'm curious what some of the folks will think about the belated outreach. I'm curious how many addresses in the alumni directories are still valid and accurate. And I'm curious how many people will take my little holiday greeting as the connection trigger it's intended to be -- and either send a reciprocal card, write a letter, or otherwise get back in touch. We shall see.
If any Media Dieticians would like to exchange Christmas cards, we still have some time, and I still have some cards. Email me your mailing address, and I'll send you my home address. That'll reach me faster than the P.O. Box noted to the left.
Last night, I camped out on the big blue couch listening to the Replacements and X to finish this year's Christmas card mailing. I've gone back and forth the last few years, wavering between Christmas cards and a New Year's letter to friends and family, but this year I'm kind of thinking both. Maybe. I did a draft of a Year That Was chronology last night and seem to have lost a month. What the heck did I do in August?
In any event, last year I sent about 40 Christmas cards. This year, so far, I've mailed about 75. Why the increase? In 2001, my graduating high school class held a 10-year reunion in Wisconsin. I didn't mail old friends from high school last Christmas, but thanks to a Web directory developed by one of my classmates, I did so this year. Also, this past year, I ordered the print edition of Northwestern University's alumni directory. That hulking beast of a book helped me track down scads of old friends from college, Sig Ep, WNUR-FM, and the Daily.
So I'm up to 75 and thinking I still need to track some stragglers down. Christmas cards are an interesting project. I'm curious what some of the folks will think about the belated outreach. I'm curious how many addresses in the alumni directories are still valid and accurate. And I'm curious how many people will take my little holiday greeting as the connection trigger it's intended to be -- and either send a reciprocal card, write a letter, or otherwise get back in touch. We shall see.
If any Media Dieticians would like to exchange Christmas cards, we still have some time, and I still have some cards. Email me your mailing address, and I'll send you my home address. That'll reach me faster than the P.O. Box noted to the left.
On the Blend III
This morning, I went a little freestyle. I didn't go to the co-op last night, so I didn't have any bananas, tofu, or much OJ left. So I kind of blended up leftovers, if you will. The remainder of the orange-tangerine juice, a carrot (based on a Media Dietician's suggestion), and half a green pepper. That was the experiment. It looked like the mixture might end up a little thick, so I added some water.
And you know what? It was too watery! I guess I'll figure out the balance eventually, but today's drink was too watery, not orangey at all... and the green pepper added an interesting undercurrent of crisp flavor. Maybe it's because I added the water. Maybe it's because I was mixing fruits and vegetables. I don't know. But it leads me to a question: What kinds of vegetables do people throw in their blenders to make juice? I was rather surprise that the Osterizer frapped the carrot so well.
This morning, I went a little freestyle. I didn't go to the co-op last night, so I didn't have any bananas, tofu, or much OJ left. So I kind of blended up leftovers, if you will. The remainder of the orange-tangerine juice, a carrot (based on a Media Dietician's suggestion), and half a green pepper. That was the experiment. It looked like the mixture might end up a little thick, so I added some water.
And you know what? It was too watery! I guess I'll figure out the balance eventually, but today's drink was too watery, not orangey at all... and the green pepper added an interesting undercurrent of crisp flavor. Maybe it's because I added the water. Maybe it's because I was mixing fruits and vegetables. I don't know. But it leads me to a question: What kinds of vegetables do people throw in their blenders to make juice? I was rather surprise that the Osterizer frapped the carrot so well.
Thursday, December 12, 2002
Corollary: Mention Me! XX
Media Dietician Heath and Almanac Brad
And I'm giving props to some other folks who've referenced and linked to Media Diet recently, as well. I've been browsing the referral logs more actively these days!
Corante on Blogging
Mercurial
Media Dietician Heath and Almanac Brad
And I'm giving props to some other folks who've referenced and linked to Media Diet recently, as well. I've been browsing the referral logs more actively these days!
Music to My Ears XX
I just got xmarsx's new album on Atavistic in the mail from Insound, and when I popped the CD into my PowerBook, I laughed out loud at what showed up in iTunes. Even though the pieces are accurately labeled on the CD itself, it's been coded so iTunes represents the disc as a fictional soundtrack recording featuring the following pieces:
"Rio Loco" by Mario Mario
"7 Trumpets Swinging" by Brass Master
"In a Key of Me" by Mad Monk
"What Girls Can Do" by the Fashion Plates
"What Are You?" by What?
"That Dang Dog" by John D
"That's Spicy!" by the Z Men
"F Is for Funk" by Funky
"Instrumentality" by Salsa Land
Kudos to Mars Williams, Kent Kessler, Greg Suran, David Suycott, Wayne Kramer, Fred Lonberg-Holm, and whomever else might have been involved in this, the first prank iTunes playlist I've experienced. Funny stuff, and the record's good to boot!
I just got xmarsx's new album on Atavistic in the mail from Insound, and when I popped the CD into my PowerBook, I laughed out loud at what showed up in iTunes. Even though the pieces are accurately labeled on the CD itself, it's been coded so iTunes represents the disc as a fictional soundtrack recording featuring the following pieces:
Kudos to Mars Williams, Kent Kessler, Greg Suran, David Suycott, Wayne Kramer, Fred Lonberg-Holm, and whomever else might have been involved in this, the first prank iTunes playlist I've experienced. Funny stuff, and the record's good to boot!
Death of a Salesman
IHCOYC contributed a fantastic essay on the unnecessary evils of salespeople and the dynamics of the cold call to Kuro5hin yesterday. The writer positions salespeople as social pirates, suggesting that cold calls break the Golden Rule -- and that salespeople "prey on the social conventions that make human intercourse possible." Our essayist goes on to consider moral principles, psychological manipulation, and the culture of motivational literature that has emerged to support those who work in sales. Think Zig Ziglar. Think Og Mandino. Then wonder whether these supporters of those in sales are really apologists for something most people think might be incorrectly practiced.
IHCOYC contributed a fantastic essay on the unnecessary evils of salespeople and the dynamics of the cold call to Kuro5hin yesterday. The writer positions salespeople as social pirates, suggesting that cold calls break the Golden Rule -- and that salespeople "prey on the social conventions that make human intercourse possible." Our essayist goes on to consider moral principles, psychological manipulation, and the culture of motivational literature that has emerged to support those who work in sales. Think Zig Ziglar. Think Og Mandino. Then wonder whether these supporters of those in sales are really apologists for something most people think might be incorrectly practiced.
Corollary: Humor Me VII
Word is that the new National Lampoon parody isn't that funny. I'd still like to see it.
Thanks to Jim Romenesko's Media News.
Word is that the new National Lampoon parody isn't that funny. I'd still like to see it.
Thanks to Jim Romenesko's Media News.
Games People Play II
The Los Angeles Times reports that Playboy is working with Arush Entertainment, maker of Duke Nukem, to develop the first Playboy-branded video game. Participants in the "simulation" game -- make that stimulation, captain! -- will play the role of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner. Rumor is that exciting game play elements will include trying to remember where your robe is, extinguishing your pipe before the bedsheets catch fire, chasing the Barbie twins around a mahogany desk, and standing outside the Penthouse Key Club muttering to yourself about the "good old days."
Thanks to I Want Media.
The Los Angeles Times reports that Playboy is working with Arush Entertainment, maker of Duke Nukem, to develop the first Playboy-branded video game. Participants in the "simulation" game -- make that stimulation, captain! -- will play the role of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner. Rumor is that exciting game play elements will include trying to remember where your robe is, extinguishing your pipe before the bedsheets catch fire, chasing the Barbie twins around a mahogany desk, and standing outside the Penthouse Key Club muttering to yourself about the "good old days."
Thanks to I Want Media.
Clothes Whore VI
Cliff Muskiet has developed an online gallery of historic flight attendant uniform designs. He actually owns the more than 200 uniforms on exhibit, having acquired most of them since 1993. His collection comprises uniforms from more than 130 airlines, giving short shrift to the domestic American airlines and offering a good look at global airline uniform design.
Thanks to BoingBoing.
Cliff Muskiet has developed an online gallery of historic flight attendant uniform designs. He actually owns the more than 200 uniforms on exhibit, having acquired most of them since 1993. His collection comprises uniforms from more than 130 airlines, giving short shrift to the domestic American airlines and offering a good look at global airline uniform design.
Thanks to BoingBoing.
Blogging About Blogging XXXV
Yesterday, Dave Winer proposed a possible plan for a blogging convention. His remarks on adhocracy -- "every attendee has a good chance of meeting and talking with all the people they want to talk with, and so that stars can rise, so if the planners don't know who has the most interesting things to say, the users can still find them" -- are interesting because, well, he seems to neglect that there's already been a more grassroots large-scale blogging gathering this fall: BlogCon. Whatever happened at BlogCon? It kind of faded fast.
Yesterday, Dave Winer proposed a possible plan for a blogging convention. His remarks on adhocracy -- "every attendee has a good chance of meeting and talking with all the people they want to talk with, and so that stars can rise, so if the planners don't know who has the most interesting things to say, the users can still find them" -- are interesting because, well, he seems to neglect that there's already been a more grassroots large-scale blogging gathering this fall: BlogCon. Whatever happened at BlogCon? It kind of faded fast.
Wednesday, December 11, 2002
Mention Me! XXI
CollectSports' CollectComics Web directory now lists Media Diet among its Reviews resources. I have no idea who gathers material for CollectComics or how they came across Media Diet, but it's nice to pop up in such a random place.
CollectSports' CollectComics Web directory now lists Media Diet among its Reviews resources. I have no idea who gathers material for CollectComics or how they came across Media Diet, but it's nice to pop up in such a random place.
Games People Play
(or, How I've Been Spending My Time IV)
Time to change that standing category, I think.
In the current issue of MacAddict, the CD-ROM includes a demo level of Pangea Software's new game Bugdom 2. Based on the strength of the demo, I ponied up the $30 to buy a registration number online so I could unlock the entire game. And it's a doozy.
In the style of A Bug's Life or Antz, Bugdom 2 features a cinematic game play in which a grasshopper seeks to reclaim his possessions. The levels that I've experienced so far involve tough-guy horseflies, some sort of spore monster, friendly chipmunks, field mice you free from traps, and -- the most fun -- stomping garden gnomes who chase you down. The graphics are extremely well done, and one of the screenshots is now my desktop image. It'll take real effort not to spend too much time exploring the world of Bugdom 2.
(or, How I've Been Spending My Time IV)
Time to change that standing category, I think.
In the current issue of MacAddict, the CD-ROM includes a demo level of Pangea Software's new game Bugdom 2. Based on the strength of the demo, I ponied up the $30 to buy a registration number online so I could unlock the entire game. And it's a doozy.
In the style of A Bug's Life or Antz, Bugdom 2 features a cinematic game play in which a grasshopper seeks to reclaim his possessions. The levels that I've experienced so far involve tough-guy horseflies, some sort of spore monster, friendly chipmunks, field mice you free from traps, and -- the most fun -- stomping garden gnomes who chase you down. The graphics are extremely well done, and one of the screenshots is now my desktop image. It'll take real effort not to spend too much time exploring the world of Bugdom 2.
Comic Book Collections III
Not so much comic books as science-fiction fanzines, the largest s-f fanzine collection in the world, the late Bruce Pelz's 200,000-plus item collection, which has been valued at $750,000, was donated to the University of California, Riverside Library. As part of the J. Lloyd Eaton Collection of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, and Utopia, the fanzines will be cataloged and preserved by collection staff.
Not so much comic books as science-fiction fanzines, the largest s-f fanzine collection in the world, the late Bruce Pelz's 200,000-plus item collection, which has been valued at $750,000, was donated to the University of California, Riverside Library. As part of the J. Lloyd Eaton Collection of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, and Utopia, the fanzines will be cataloged and preserved by collection staff.
Lost Locales
I love stuff like this. The La Crosse (Wisconsin) Historical Society has developed an online exhibit entitled Downtown La Crosse: Then and Now. While there are only about 10 paired images that compare historic images with same-site photographs from more recent days, the side-by-side placements are particularly effective. The LCHS has also developed contextual notes and descriptions to accompany the photos, making the exhibit an excellent look at balancing history and progress.
I love stuff like this. The La Crosse (Wisconsin) Historical Society has developed an online exhibit entitled Downtown La Crosse: Then and Now. While there are only about 10 paired images that compare historic images with same-site photographs from more recent days, the side-by-side placements are particularly effective. The LCHS has also developed contextual notes and descriptions to accompany the photos, making the exhibit an excellent look at balancing history and progress.
Sentient Friction
These are good days, good days indeed, for new and forthcoming science-fiction novels and other books. The following are titles of which Media Dieticians should be aware:
As Above, So Below by Rudy Rucker (Forge)
Down and Out in the Magic Kingdom by Cory Doctorow (Tor)
Little Doors by Paul Di Filippo (Four Walls Eight Windows)
The Man Who Saw the Glory by John Brunner (Darkside)
Martians and Madness: The Complete SF Novels by Fredric Brown (NESFA)
Pattern Recognition by William Gibson (Penguin/Putnam)
Tomorrow Now: Envisioning the Next 50 Years by Bruce Sterling (Random House)
The Ultimate Cyberpunk edited by Pat Cadigan (Pocket/ibooks)
These are good days, good days indeed, for new and forthcoming science-fiction novels and other books. The following are titles of which Media Dieticians should be aware:
Event-O-Dex XXI
This isn't related to the Bazaar Bizarre punk-rock crafts fair that Handstand Command helped organize last weekend. But students at the Massachusetts College of Art have been organizing their own brand of punk-rock flea market for awhile now.
The next one runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. this Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Massachusetts College of Art gym, 621 Huntington Ave., Boston. It's easily accessible via the E line T; just get off at the Longwood stop. Admission is free, and you can expect scads of crafts, records, clothing, music, and more.
This isn't related to the Bazaar Bizarre punk-rock crafts fair that Handstand Command helped organize last weekend. But students at the Massachusetts College of Art have been organizing their own brand of punk-rock flea market for awhile now.
The next one runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. this Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Massachusetts College of Art gym, 621 Huntington Ave., Boston. It's easily accessible via the E line T; just get off at the Longwood stop. Admission is free, and you can expect scads of crafts, records, clothing, music, and more.
Among the Literati XX
The recently redesigned Utne has also started publishing special issues. In their Arts Extra, they announce the launch of a book club. I'm not sure whether I'll join the online discussions, but their list of recommended reading might form the basis of some of 2003's Books Worth a Look.
The recently redesigned Utne has also started publishing special issues. In their Arts Extra, they announce the launch of a book club. I'm not sure whether I'll join the online discussions, but their list of recommended reading might form the basis of some of 2003's Books Worth a Look.
Humor Me VII
National Lampoon is back. This week, the new management team is distributing 4,000 copies of a parody of The Hollywood Reporter entitled The Hollywood Retorter. It's a classic launch prank ploy, and I'm jealous of the people working in "entertainment industry circles" who get theirs. If any Media Dieticians get a copy and don't want to hold onto it, please send it on. I'll magazinedex it.
Thanks to I Want Media.
National Lampoon is back. This week, the new management team is distributing 4,000 copies of a parody of The Hollywood Reporter entitled The Hollywood Retorter. It's a classic launch prank ploy, and I'm jealous of the people working in "entertainment industry circles" who get theirs. If any Media Dieticians get a copy and don't want to hold onto it, please send it on. I'll magazinedex it.
Thanks to I Want Media.
On the Blend II
I was a little wary, but based on Christine's comment about adding tofu to my morning smoothie, I did so this morning. Same mix as I've been using -- banana, orange-tangerine juice, frozen blueberries and raspberries -- but this morning adding a block of extra firm silken tofu. I had my doubts about using extra firm, but it turned out great! The tofu added more of a shake-like consistency, thickening the drink but not too much, and it added a nice earthy undertone, as well. Keep sending your suggestions. I'll keep throwing more stuff in the blender!
I was a little wary, but based on Christine's comment about adding tofu to my morning smoothie, I did so this morning. Same mix as I've been using -- banana, orange-tangerine juice, frozen blueberries and raspberries -- but this morning adding a block of extra firm silken tofu. I had my doubts about using extra firm, but it turned out great! The tofu added more of a shake-like consistency, thickening the drink but not too much, and it added a nice earthy undertone, as well. Keep sending your suggestions. I'll keep throwing more stuff in the blender!
Tuesday, December 10, 2002
Rock Shows of Note XLVII
Last Friday brought the second annual Bazaar Bizarre punk-rock crafts fair. Organized in part by the Handstand Command arts collective, the bazaar featured a wide range of DIY vendors, music provided by Punk Rock Aerobics, and a sleazy Santa with two naughty elves. I spent most of the night sequestered behind the Handstand Command table, but to be truthful, Chris and Em did all the work. I was merely a hanger on. Here are some snapshots:
One of Somerville's finest
Scott controlled the floor.
Chris and Em, movin' units
I was glad to stay behind the table!
Looks like somebody reads ReadyMade
Looks like somebody brought baby
Thanks to everyone who helped organize and manage the crafts fair, as well as to all of the vendors -- macaroni album art! -- and people who came to check it out. I've got to get more involved for next year.
Last Friday brought the second annual Bazaar Bizarre punk-rock crafts fair. Organized in part by the Handstand Command arts collective, the bazaar featured a wide range of DIY vendors, music provided by Punk Rock Aerobics, and a sleazy Santa with two naughty elves. I spent most of the night sequestered behind the Handstand Command table, but to be truthful, Chris and Em did all the work. I was merely a hanger on. Here are some snapshots:
One of Somerville's finest
Scott controlled the floor.
Chris and Em, movin' units
I was glad to stay behind the table!
Looks like somebody reads ReadyMade
Looks like somebody brought baby
Thanks to everyone who helped organize and manage the crafts fair, as well as to all of the vendors -- macaroni album art! -- and people who came to check it out. I've got to get more involved for next year.
Technofetishism XIX
I'm searching for duplicate files on my PowerBook using Aladdin Systems' Spring Cleaning utility, so I'm taking some time to poke around on the Web. If you have any interesting sites and services to recommend, let me know. This could take some time.
I'm searching for duplicate files on my PowerBook using Aladdin Systems' Spring Cleaning utility, so I'm taking some time to poke around on the Web. If you have any interesting sites and services to recommend, let me know. This could take some time.
Event-O-Dex XX
For the month of December, the artwork of Jef Czekaj and Dan Moynihan is being displayed at the Diesel Cafe on Davis Square in Somerville. Jef says they stayed up until 3 a.m. hanging the show. You don't have to stay up that late to check it out, though.
And this Friday, the "notoriously big" Scrapple Christmas show is being staged at Jacques. That's Dec. 13. The show will be shared with Neptune, which is releasing a new CD that night! Maybe I'll be able to drag Cory Doctorow out to this... Fingers crossed!
For the month of December, the artwork of Jef Czekaj and Dan Moynihan is being displayed at the Diesel Cafe on Davis Square in Somerville. Jef says they stayed up until 3 a.m. hanging the show. You don't have to stay up that late to check it out, though.
And this Friday, the "notoriously big" Scrapple Christmas show is being staged at Jacques. That's Dec. 13. The show will be shared with Neptune, which is releasing a new CD that night! Maybe I'll be able to drag Cory Doctorow out to this... Fingers crossed!
Digesting the Daily VI
Recent editions of the Daily Northwestern, the student newspaper of my alma mater, featured several media-, technology-, and activism-related items that might be of interest to Media Dieticians. (OK, one, but I didn't include it in the previous roundup.)
"Lord of the Rings" linguistics sparks creative U. Texas class
Class will focus on grammar, structure of Tolkien's various unique languages
(Nov. 19, 2002)
If you work for a college newspaper and would like to sign me up for a complimentary subscription, please feel free to do so. My address is in the grey bar over on the left.
Recent editions of the Daily Northwestern, the student newspaper of my alma mater, featured several media-, technology-, and activism-related items that might be of interest to Media Dieticians. (OK, one, but I didn't include it in the previous roundup.)
"Lord of the Rings" linguistics sparks creative U. Texas class
Class will focus on grammar, structure of Tolkien's various unique languages
(Nov. 19, 2002)
If you work for a college newspaper and would like to sign me up for a complimentary subscription, please feel free to do so. My address is in the grey bar over on the left.
Pieces, Particles XI
The following media-related stories recently spotted in print publications might be worth a look. Heads and decks, only. Heads and decks.
Ads Gone Mad by Janine Jackson, Extra!, September/October 2002
Trampling the line between commercials and content
Fairway to Heaven by Steve Kurutz, Details, September 2002
Golden Tee is the biggest coin-op game since Pac-Man. It's secret: It's all fun, no exercise.
The Librarian of Sleaze by Kareem Fahim, Details, September 2002
How a guy who just loves porn -- from cheerleader flicks to amputee-fetish mags -- became a hero to a hip new museum.
The Man with the Big Book Look by Steven Heller, Print 2002
During the last half of the 20th century, Paul Bacon designed influential book jackets, for bestsellers particularly, that revitalized the genre.
Narrative Drive by Leslie Sherr, Print 2002
The best of today's annual reports are more about storytelling than financial reporting.
Panel Play by Daniel Nadel, Print 2002
Auteurs and small press publishers are redefining the esthetics of comic books, turning them into objets d'art.
The Price of Porn by Ian Spiegelman, Details, November 2002
In the hole for $10,000, one sex addict blames it all on the Internet, "a global terror network dedicated to bukkake and beaver."
Queens of Noise by Jillian Steinberger, Bust, Fall 2002
A passionate lady's guide to starting a record label
What, Me Worry?, Harper's, November 2002
Write or Wrong, DC Cans Letters, Wizard, January 2003
If you work for a magazine and would like to sign me up for a complimentary subscription, please feel free to do so. My address is in the grey bar over on the left.
The following media-related stories recently spotted in print publications might be worth a look. Heads and decks, only. Heads and decks.
Ads Gone Mad by Janine Jackson, Extra!, September/October 2002
Trampling the line between commercials and content
Fairway to Heaven by Steve Kurutz, Details, September 2002
Golden Tee is the biggest coin-op game since Pac-Man. It's secret: It's all fun, no exercise.
The Librarian of Sleaze by Kareem Fahim, Details, September 2002
How a guy who just loves porn -- from cheerleader flicks to amputee-fetish mags -- became a hero to a hip new museum.
The Man with the Big Book Look by Steven Heller, Print 2002
During the last half of the 20th century, Paul Bacon designed influential book jackets, for bestsellers particularly, that revitalized the genre.
Narrative Drive by Leslie Sherr, Print 2002
The best of today's annual reports are more about storytelling than financial reporting.
Panel Play by Daniel Nadel, Print 2002
Auteurs and small press publishers are redefining the esthetics of comic books, turning them into objets d'art.
The Price of Porn by Ian Spiegelman, Details, November 2002
In the hole for $10,000, one sex addict blames it all on the Internet, "a global terror network dedicated to bukkake and beaver."
Queens of Noise by Jillian Steinberger, Bust, Fall 2002
A passionate lady's guide to starting a record label
What, Me Worry?, Harper's, November 2002
Write or Wrong, DC Cans Letters, Wizard, January 2003
If you work for a magazine and would like to sign me up for a complimentary subscription, please feel free to do so. My address is in the grey bar over on the left.
Let's Make a Steal
Three years ago, the US Postal Service ordered 20 million postal bins to keep up with mail automation. Today, a mere 20,000 remain in the agency's warehouses. You see, it seems that, just like shopping carts, which were also in the news recently, people don't return these cooler-sized plastic carryalls. And the USPS wants them back. The bins cost $3.25 a piece, so the non-returns add up to millions of dollars. Despite a possible $1,000 fine for misuse or theft of government property, the USPS promises not to ask any questions -- they just want their bins back.
Three years ago, the US Postal Service ordered 20 million postal bins to keep up with mail automation. Today, a mere 20,000 remain in the agency's warehouses. You see, it seems that, just like shopping carts, which were also in the news recently, people don't return these cooler-sized plastic carryalls. And the USPS wants them back. The bins cost $3.25 a piece, so the non-returns add up to millions of dollars. Despite a possible $1,000 fine for misuse or theft of government property, the USPS promises not to ask any questions -- they just want their bins back.
Monday, December 09, 2002
The Movie I Watched Last Night XLVII
That Touch of Mink
This 1962 movie featuring Cary Grant and Doris Day riffs on the theme later addressed by Pretty Woman and Maid in Manhattan. A wealthy businessman is smitten by a "working-class girl" -- in this case, a secretarial type, not a prostitute -- and proceeds to woo her. Grant is at his smoothest and most collected, and Day plays a young innocent who, while also smitten, feels slightly out of her league. Of course, they end up together. John Astin, who starred as the Addams Family's Gomez, co-stars as Everett Beasley, a decidedly creepy civil service worker who tries to lord it over Day at the unemployment office. Astin's role is a highlight, as is the snappy banter scripted for Grant and Day.
That Touch of Mink
This 1962 movie featuring Cary Grant and Doris Day riffs on the theme later addressed by Pretty Woman and Maid in Manhattan. A wealthy businessman is smitten by a "working-class girl" -- in this case, a secretarial type, not a prostitute -- and proceeds to woo her. Grant is at his smoothest and most collected, and Day plays a young innocent who, while also smitten, feels slightly out of her league. Of course, they end up together. John Astin, who starred as the Addams Family's Gomez, co-stars as Everett Beasley, a decidedly creepy civil service worker who tries to lord it over Day at the unemployment office. Astin's role is a highlight, as is the snappy banter scripted for Grant and Day.
On the Blend
I have owned a blender for the last six-plus years. It's moved with me from Chicago to Boston, and since my arrival here in 1996, it's found a home in a cabinet or on top of a refrigerator in no fewer than five apartments. And I've never used it.
Until this weekend. Inspired by one of my hosts during the CoF Roadshow and a once-active contributor to FC:Forums, Fast Company's discussion area, I've started using the blender to make breakfast. And I think I might have discovered what I can eat for breakfast every day for the rest of my life.
I love the idea of breakfast, but I don't like taking the time to prepare and eat it at home -- and the options for what I can pick up on the way to work aren't that inexpensive or healthy. But this, I think, is awesome. What is this? Let me tell you.
You take a banana. You peel it. You break it into several pieces. And you put it in the blender. You pour in enough fruit juice -- it's been orange and tangerine juice so far -- to cover the banana. Then you add some frozen blueberries and raspberries. Maybe add some ice if you feel like it. Put the lid on top of the blender and press the frappe button.
Instant delicious, healthy breakfast!
My blender is awesome; and it's got character -- and battle scars. It's an old-school Osterizer, and a couple of the buttons have been melted. I'm not sure how. The metal plate affixed to the front of the blender that indicates what button does what is loose, but otherwise everything works wonderfully.
If you have any suggestions for what else I might blend for breakfast, let me know. Because I've got a blender, and I'm not afraid to use it.
I have owned a blender for the last six-plus years. It's moved with me from Chicago to Boston, and since my arrival here in 1996, it's found a home in a cabinet or on top of a refrigerator in no fewer than five apartments. And I've never used it.
Until this weekend. Inspired by one of my hosts during the CoF Roadshow and a once-active contributor to FC:Forums, Fast Company's discussion area, I've started using the blender to make breakfast. And I think I might have discovered what I can eat for breakfast every day for the rest of my life.
I love the idea of breakfast, but I don't like taking the time to prepare and eat it at home -- and the options for what I can pick up on the way to work aren't that inexpensive or healthy. But this, I think, is awesome. What is this? Let me tell you.
You take a banana. You peel it. You break it into several pieces. And you put it in the blender. You pour in enough fruit juice -- it's been orange and tangerine juice so far -- to cover the banana. Then you add some frozen blueberries and raspberries. Maybe add some ice if you feel like it. Put the lid on top of the blender and press the frappe button.
Instant delicious, healthy breakfast!
My blender is awesome; and it's got character -- and battle scars. It's an old-school Osterizer, and a couple of the buttons have been melted. I'm not sure how. The metal plate affixed to the front of the blender that indicates what button does what is loose, but otherwise everything works wonderfully.
If you have any suggestions for what else I might blend for breakfast, let me know. Because I've got a blender, and I'm not afraid to use it.
Friday, December 06, 2002
From the In Box: Pulling the Plug IX
In response to Ed Hazell's recent essay on the Willow, a long-gone Somerville jazz club, Stu Vandermark, a contributor to Cadence, sent the following message to the Boss Improv mailing list, which discusses the Boston-area jazz and improvised music scene:
Stu Vandermark is the father of MacArthur Fellow Ken Vandermark.
In response to Ed Hazell's recent essay on the Willow, a long-gone Somerville jazz club, Stu Vandermark, a contributor to Cadence, sent the following message to the Boss Improv mailing list, which discusses the Boston-area jazz and improvised music scene:
What most people probably do not know is that the mid-1980s was the best time for jazz in Boston since the 1950s (The 1950s -- by certain measures -- was the best time for jazz in Boston and just about every other city in the U.S. as well). In my view (for what that's worth), the Willow was the most important jazz club in Boston during the 1980s. I know that sounds ludicrous to anyone who arrived here during the early 1990s or later, but it was an important place at a time when often incredible jazz of all types was pouring out of clubs around town.
There were many reasons that the Willow was important but most of those reasons are based on two facts:
1) No one had to pay to play. In other words, the owners of the club did not charge a booker or the musicians to perform. Right off the bat that meant that there were no economic limitations to dictate the type of music to be performed. So you had everything from two-beat to swing to the cocktail lounge singers to free players all the time. Also, the lack of economic limitations meant that there were no qualitative restrictions. Anyone from a Berklee freshman to Joseph Jarman could (and did) play there.
2) Brian Walkley booked the place. I used to joke about Brian's misspellings in my column back then (and in fact do it again in the latest issue of Cadence). But he was completely democratic. He misspelled names without prejudice. It didn't matter whether you were Joe Smithth or Joe Muneri, you got the same treatment. The up side was that no matter who you were, you could get booked there. The only difference is that the internationally known musicians tended to be booked on Friday and Saturday nights. (Although I saw such giants as George Duvivier, Jamaaladeen Tacuma, and Jimmy Giuffre during the middle of the week.) The only difficult part for most people was getting hold of Brian in the first place. He was a busy, elusive man. As for myself, I always found him very supportive any time I put on gigs (which usually were off the wall type things -- two drummers and a bassist, three drummers, stuff like that).
Yes, the Willow was out of the way (but it was amazing how people figured out how to pack the club two nights each month when James Williams brought his groups in, and on other "big" nights). Yes, the bar side (and that swinging door) could be noisy, but even the celebrities dealt with it (and the problem grew worse after about 1990; the juke box got louder and the bar people became less considerate). Also, one must remember that during the 1980s music in the sonic realm of Morton Feldman was relegated to academia. In other words, just as jazz performed acoustically by four or more people in Jordan Hall is a sonic disaster, Jordan Hall is the ideal place for low volume, slow-moving music. It was understood that the Willow was a jazz club. By the way (although this point is not completely relevant), invariably whenever I took European friends to jazz clubs around Boston, their favorite club was the Willow. They claimed that it best fit their image of what a "real" jazz club was like.
But whatever good environmental and other qualities the club had in the 1980s, they were pretty much gone by the beginning of the 1990s. The piano no longer was maintained. The tape deck, turntable, and sound system had been dead for many years. The live radio shows on WERS were no more than a memory. Even the weekend gigs were dying qualitatively. By the time it closed, the only gigs that drew large audiences were the Wednesday (and later Monday) Fringe nights.
So, yes, during the 1990s the Willow was a dump. It never was pretty. But during the 1980s it was the center of the spectrum of jazz activity from the novices to the names, month after month. One of the important side benefits of the qualitative and formal spectrum of the music performed was the openness of the musicians in Boston during the 1980s. At the Willow (and to some extent at other clubs), swing musicians would run into free players who would encounter the beboppers, and they would hang and listen to each other's music. For example, anyone from Gary Valente to Raphé Malik would sit in with the Fringe, and you might find Alan Dawson or Bill Pierce in the audience, just hanging. We are much poorer for not having the Willow (or something like it) today. -- Stu Vandermark
Stu Vandermark is the father of MacArthur Fellow Ken Vandermark.
The Movie I Watched Last Night XLVI
Dr. Goldfoot and the Bikini Machine
What a strange little movie. Trying to combine elements of James Bond and the beach movies of Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello, Dr. Goldfoot and the Bikini Machine may very well have provided some of the inspiration for more recent movies such as the Austin Powers series and Mars Attacks!. Vincent Price plays a slightly fey mad scientist who's created an army of female robots to swindle rich men out of their fortunes. Frankie Avalon himself plays a bumbling not-so-secret agent who witlessly stumbles onto the plot. Jack Mullaney shines as the dimwitted back-from-the-dead assistant Igor. And hilarity ensues. This movie is a throwaway except for its San Francisco setting and blue-screen chase scene down the crookedest street in the world -- and for the brief appearance of Funcicello in an uncredited cameo. But in the end, this B movie puts the "b" in "bad." The Supremes must have been awfully hard up to contribute the theme song.
Dr. Goldfoot and the Bikini Machine
What a strange little movie. Trying to combine elements of James Bond and the beach movies of Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello, Dr. Goldfoot and the Bikini Machine may very well have provided some of the inspiration for more recent movies such as the Austin Powers series and Mars Attacks!. Vincent Price plays a slightly fey mad scientist who's created an army of female robots to swindle rich men out of their fortunes. Frankie Avalon himself plays a bumbling not-so-secret agent who witlessly stumbles onto the plot. Jack Mullaney shines as the dimwitted back-from-the-dead assistant Igor. And hilarity ensues. This movie is a throwaway except for its San Francisco setting and blue-screen chase scene down the crookedest street in the world -- and for the brief appearance of Funcicello in an uncredited cameo. But in the end, this B movie puts the "b" in "bad." The Supremes must have been awfully hard up to contribute the theme song.
The Revolution Will Not Be Webified
Before the Web is an archive of first-person accounts of interactive online technologies that predated the Web's deployment in 1992. The project's managers are looking for stories about videotext, teletext, database publishing, corporate email, BBS sysops, SIGs, chat, User Publishing, key-word search, and conferencing that predates http/html. Even though there's not a lot of lost history available yet, what's there right now is pretty interesting. One of the people involved in marketing the Source -- one of the first online services -- shares some stories about how they got the word out. And another contributor sheds light on the state of information technology venture capital circa 1982. As this online history fleshes out, it promises to be an insightful look at how people formed the foundation of what would become the Web -- and the mainstream acceptance of the Net.
Thanks to Weblogsky.
Before the Web is an archive of first-person accounts of interactive online technologies that predated the Web's deployment in 1992. The project's managers are looking for stories about videotext, teletext, database publishing, corporate email, BBS sysops, SIGs, chat, User Publishing, key-word search, and conferencing that predates http/html. Even though there's not a lot of lost history available yet, what's there right now is pretty interesting. One of the people involved in marketing the Source -- one of the first online services -- shares some stories about how they got the word out. And another contributor sheds light on the state of information technology venture capital circa 1982. As this online history fleshes out, it promises to be an insightful look at how people formed the foundation of what would become the Web -- and the mainstream acceptance of the Net.
Thanks to Weblogsky.
On the Commercialization of Content
Rusty Foster contributed a wonderfully tongue-in-cheek screed about online advertorials to Kuro5hin yesterday. Using the recent rash of paid placement bylined articles that Sony sponsored in Salon as a launchpad, Rusty considers the economics behind short lifestyle features published as part of an advertising series. Advertorials are nothing new, but their move to the Web brings up some interesting questions. How long will it be before we're unable to determine whether an online article, discussion forum post, blog entry, or entire site itself is a paid advertisement rather than the grassroots, independent content that makes up much of the Web?
The Kuro5hin commentary is particularly interesting when coupled with last night's Hypergene MediaBlog interview with Rusty about Kuro5hin's acceptance of text ads coupled with the site's standard comments tool. By offering readers a neutral platform on which they can ask questions about a product or service, read other people's feedback on their experiences with the advertiser, and otherwise engage with an advertising partner, Kuro5hin has taken several steps toward the Cluetrain concept of markets as conversations.
Much of Media Diet's content is comprised of reviews, media critiques, and other commentaries. Some people send me free books, comics, records, and zines to consider for review. While I try to review everything that people send me -- it's part and parcel of the zine world's trade economy -- I like to think that receiving materials for free doesn't involve any responsibility to review something positively. If I don't like something, I'll tell you. That person might not send me anything else in the future, but that's the way the ball bounces. Were I serviced by record labels -- which I would welcome -- I might be more mindful of "protecting" that service, but again, I like to think that that wouldn't be the case.
Additionally, creators will often respond to a review I post. Just this week, I've had a delightful email exchange with Sammy Harkham about my interpretation of his Slumber mini. And by checking the traffic logs, I know that someone emailed Paul Pope the link to my recent review of the Comics Interpreter -- a review in which I said I wasn't the biggest fan of his work. Paul hasn't touched base, but, hey, Paul, if you're reading this, send me some free stuff, 'K?
Because I'm pretty shameless. I love getting mail, and I love being introduced to new media artifacts that align with the interests represented here. Send me a free T-shirt, and I'll wear it at least once. I'll even take a picture of me wearing the shirt and publish it here. Is that an advertorial? I think it's silly fun.
Rusty Foster contributed a wonderfully tongue-in-cheek screed about online advertorials to Kuro5hin yesterday. Using the recent rash of paid placement bylined articles that Sony sponsored in Salon as a launchpad, Rusty considers the economics behind short lifestyle features published as part of an advertising series. Advertorials are nothing new, but their move to the Web brings up some interesting questions. How long will it be before we're unable to determine whether an online article, discussion forum post, blog entry, or entire site itself is a paid advertisement rather than the grassroots, independent content that makes up much of the Web?
The Kuro5hin commentary is particularly interesting when coupled with last night's Hypergene MediaBlog interview with Rusty about Kuro5hin's acceptance of text ads coupled with the site's standard comments tool. By offering readers a neutral platform on which they can ask questions about a product or service, read other people's feedback on their experiences with the advertiser, and otherwise engage with an advertising partner, Kuro5hin has taken several steps toward the Cluetrain concept of markets as conversations.
Much of Media Diet's content is comprised of reviews, media critiques, and other commentaries. Some people send me free books, comics, records, and zines to consider for review. While I try to review everything that people send me -- it's part and parcel of the zine world's trade economy -- I like to think that receiving materials for free doesn't involve any responsibility to review something positively. If I don't like something, I'll tell you. That person might not send me anything else in the future, but that's the way the ball bounces. Were I serviced by record labels -- which I would welcome -- I might be more mindful of "protecting" that service, but again, I like to think that that wouldn't be the case.
Additionally, creators will often respond to a review I post. Just this week, I've had a delightful email exchange with Sammy Harkham about my interpretation of his Slumber mini. And by checking the traffic logs, I know that someone emailed Paul Pope the link to my recent review of the Comics Interpreter -- a review in which I said I wasn't the biggest fan of his work. Paul hasn't touched base, but, hey, Paul, if you're reading this, send me some free stuff, 'K?
Because I'm pretty shameless. I love getting mail, and I love being introduced to new media artifacts that align with the interests represented here. Send me a free T-shirt, and I'll wear it at least once. I'll even take a picture of me wearing the shirt and publish it here. Is that an advertorial? I think it's silly fun.
Media Meet Space III
The Associated Press reports that the just-that-side-of-softcore porn magazine Penthouse has begun licensing its name to "upscale" strip clubs. The first Penthouse Key Club opened in Cleveland on my mom's birthday -- what a gift! -- after a $1.5 million renovation. While the menu is mostly beer on tap, burgers, and fries, company representatives contend that the Penthouse brand stands for sex and quality.
Now, Playboy once had a chain of nightclubs, but there wasn't any nudity -- just women wearing bunny suits. Despite the failure of the Playboy clubs, as well as the falling circulation of men's magazines (Penthouse has fallen from 5 million to 1 million.), perhaps Penthouse will learn that, to be true, sex will sell. Or at least sell burgers and beer.
Thanks to I Want Media.
The Associated Press reports that the just-that-side-of-softcore porn magazine Penthouse has begun licensing its name to "upscale" strip clubs. The first Penthouse Key Club opened in Cleveland on my mom's birthday -- what a gift! -- after a $1.5 million renovation. While the menu is mostly beer on tap, burgers, and fries, company representatives contend that the Penthouse brand stands for sex and quality.
Now, Playboy once had a chain of nightclubs, but there wasn't any nudity -- just women wearing bunny suits. Despite the failure of the Playboy clubs, as well as the falling circulation of men's magazines (Penthouse has fallen from 5 million to 1 million.), perhaps Penthouse will learn that, to be true, sex will sell. Or at least sell burgers and beer.
Thanks to I Want Media.
Thursday, December 05, 2002
Books Worth a Look IX
These are the books I read in September, October, and November 2002.
After the Quake by Haruki Murakami (Knopf, 2002)
Written as responses to the Kobe earthquake in 1995, these six short stories neither challenge Murakami's longer fiction of recent years nore improves on his previous short story collection. Several of the pieces end on an up note, usually with a main character finding new or true love -- "UFO in Kushiro" and "Honey Pie" -- but for the most part, the overarching tone is one of loss or at least resolution to settle for less -- or what is ("Landscape with Flatiron" and "Thailand"). That resonance borders on remorseful realization, at least in "All God's Children Can Dance," and the stories, while not totally dark, don't dance with the sentiment or humor of Murakami's other work.
Days to read: 2. Rating: Good.
American Flagg!: State of the Union by Howard Chaykin (First, 1989)
Not as lush illustration-wise or as pulp-like in its writing as Chaykin's recent work, American Flagg! still shows his fashion illustration by way of adventure hero style. Flagg works his way through a web of corruption and destruction, wending a path through stupid cyborgs, inept mayors, and talking cats. The story is left up in the air as a mysterious figure claims power and challengs Flagg, but it's clear that Flagg's among the good guys and that the good guys will win.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Good.
The Color of Summer by Reinaldo Arenas (Penguin, 1990)
After watching Before Night Falls with Andrea, I knew that I had to read Arenas -- and soon. This is the fourth of five autobiographical novels Arenas wrote, and it's a good place to begin. As a gay Cuban dissident, Arenas faced multiple oppressions under the Castro regime. This novel -- combining elements of magic realism with the surreal decadence of William Burroughs -- is a comic political commentary, celebration of freedom (sexual and otherwise), and a cry for help. I wish I knew more about Cuban literature, as there are many pseudonymous and not-so-thinly veiled pastiche appreciations woven throughout. Brilliant.
Days to read: 12. Rating: Excellent.
Covering the '60s: George Lois, the Esquire Era (Monacelli, 1996)
An interesting counterpoint to the 25th anniversary collection of Heavy Metal covers, this retrospective of George Lois' absolutely brilliant cover designs from 1962-1972 was done exactly how a book like this should be done. Reproducing the covers with full bleed and including commentary by Lois on the thought and creative process behind each image -- even offering the inside scoop on the political and financial fallout from some of the riskier editorial decisions -- the book is an amazing look back at one of the best decades in magazine design, as well as an appreciative design memoir of -- and manual by -- Lois. A book to be revisited.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Excellent.
Fifty-One Tales by Lord Dunsany (Wildside, 2002)
These 51 short, short stories written by Edward John Moreton Drax Plunkett, the 18th baron of an ancient line who was born in Ireland in the late 1800s, helped form the basis of inspiration for fantasy writers in the early 20th century such as H.P. Lovecraft. The stories, fantastic fables, criticize urbanization, industrialization, and progress, combining political commentary with moral, mythic narration. Lightly humorous, the stories don't quite astound, but Dunsany's impact and importance is evident.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Good.
Ghosts of Boston Town: Three Centuries of True Hauntings by Holly Mascott Nadler (Down East, 2002)
Read shortly after Halloween, this retelling of supernatural activities in the Boston area was a welcome distraction while relaxing on the coast of Maine. I appreciate the occasional geographic specificity -- the ghost in the North End, the origin of Edgar Allen Poe's Cask of Amontillado, spooks in Charlesgate Hall, and the burials in Boston Common -- but for the most part, third-person retellings of ghost stories lack a needed legitimacy and science. Regardless, this book will have me pounding the pavement looking for some landmarks.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Good.
Gilmore Girls: I Love You, You Idiot by Cathy East Dubowski (Harper, 2002)
Another media tie-in novel based on six teleplays for the TV series. The adaptation of "That Damn Donna Reed" loses some of the visual punch that was in the episode where Rory cooks dinner for Dean, I'm sure, so I'm slightly thankful there's a center photo section of stills. The sense of humor and near-verbatim dialogue continues to carry the cleverness and care of the show.
Days to read: 9. Rating: Good.
Gilmore Girls: Like Mother, Like Daughter by Catharine Clark (Harper, 2002)
This media tie-in adapted from five television screenplays -- including the pilot -- of this series on the WB is a welcome find before the Sunday reruns and new series begin. While I'm a relative newcomer to the program, I think Clark adapts the series well. While I'm not the biggest fan of Rory's first-person narration, the pacing of the language used in the dialogue and the almost-frantic, rapid-fire humor is awesome and represents the show's scripts well.
Days to read: 2. Rating: Good.
Gravediggers' Party by Gahan Wilson (IBooks, 2002)
Wilson is a hidden gem, an extremely prolific cartoonist whose ghastly gag panels lurk like lycanthropes within the otherwise harmless pages of magazines such as the New Yorker and Playboy. These 150 cartoons are drawn from several decades of work and run the gamut -- and gantlet -- of Wilson's creative output. Whether the comics are clean line drawings or darkly colored scenes, Wilson's skewed view of the world is full of monsters -- human and otherwise. A disturbing joy to take in all at once.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Excellent.
Heavy Metal: 25 Years of Classic Covers by John Workman (Heavy Metal, 2002)
Despite my general disinterest in the European genre comics that Heavy Metal -- now published by Kevin Eastman -- translates and reprints, I've got to recognize the magazine's flair for cover design. Workman, who served as the magazine's art director for its first seven years, compiles almost 300 covers by fantasy artists such as Moebius, Bernie Wrightson, Howard Chaykin, Boris Vallejo, and others. The anniversary book could have benefited from larger reproduction of most of the images and more historical perspective on the magazine's relationship with National Lampoon, its inclusion of interviews, and its attempts to move into other media. But the artwork, though cliched, is beautiful, and the covers are well worth collecting.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Fair.
John Collier and Fredric Brown Went Quarreling Through My Head by Jessica Amanda Salmonson (Ganley, 1989)
These 27 stories were written between 1966 and 1985 by long-time small press contributor Salmonson, editor of Fantasy Macabre. She described these short pieces as "little horrors," and the influence of the two authors named in the title is clear. In fact, Salmonson dedicates many of the stories collected here to the authors that inspired them, including James Blish, Clifford Simak, Ray Bradbury, H.P. Lovecraft, Rod Serling, and Fritz Leiber. Despite Salmonson's transparent dependence on genre fiction, the collection communicates with the economy of a Twilight Zone episode, sharing several startling visions even if no single story stands out.
Days to read: NA. Rating: Fair.
Little Walks for Sightseers #16: A Walking Tour of the Shambles by Gene Wolfe and Neil Gaiman (American Fantasy, 2002)
A guidebook to an imaginary neighborhood that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, this pamphlet is a clever portrayal of a place that might have been. Wolfe and Gaiman detail local sites to see -- and to skip entirely, sometimes -- as well as some of the speculative history, lore, and personages that help produce the Shambles. Their descriptions are complete and their advice well-heeded. More people should pen fictional tour guides!
Days to read: 1. Rating: Good.
Mass MoCA: From Mill to Museum by Nicholas Whitman (Mass MoCA, 2000)
Published in conjunction with the opening of the groundbreaking arts and business anchor in North Adams, Massachusetts, this book combines several contextual essays on the redevelopment project with photographs by Nicholas Whitman. Whitman began his photographic work in 1988, before the Sprague Electric Co. began its transformation into Mass MoCA, and the photos, which cover the 12 years between Sprague's closing and the museum's opening, ably capture the decrepit buildings that were rejuvenated, how the architects retained many of the original structural features, and the arts and technology Renaissance that's come to North Adams. One of my favorite places.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Excellent.
Mr. Bounce by Roger Hargreaves (Price Stern Sloan, 1976)
I loved these Mr. Men and Little Miss books when I was in kindergarten, and it's hard not to love them now. With almost 100 different titles, the short and simple stories play off a single quality of the eponymous characters -- often ending with a flat punchline. Take this volume. Mr. Bounce, well, bounces. Into a duck pond, down the stairs, across a tennis net (several times), off of a bus, and into a doctor's cup of coffee. The doctor is able to grant Mr. Bounce a prescription to cure his ills, but in the end, the cure poses a problem of its own. Extremely quick reads, the books are most notable for Hargreave's colorful artwork.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Fair.
Nice Hat. Thanks. by Joshua Beckman and Matthew Rohrer (Verse, 2002)
The shorter poems are better than the longer poems, particularly because the four- and five-line poems often repeat themselves, which leads one to think about padding and promise. The "long" poems, poems of more than five lines, fare slightly better, allowing these New York-based wordsmiths to do more with imagery and illustration. There are many good ideas here -- ideas about art, time, urban life, love, nature, and process -- but there aren't as many good poems.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Good.
Organizing Workspace: A to Z by Hope Lafferty ([S]pace, 2000)
Lafferty's a living and workspace organizational consultant, and this slim volume is her alphabetical guide to cutting through the clutter in your life. Lafferty addresses your desk at work, databases, email, fax cover sheets, poverty consciousness, and your wallet, as well as other topics. I'm quite skeptical of the value of simplification guides such as this, but Lafferty makes some suggestions I'll find useful -- such as reading magazines I subscribe to the day they arrive in the mail.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Fair.
Out of the Ashes: Help for People Who Have Stopped Smoking by Peter and Peggy Holmes (Fairview, 1992)
Basing this little book of meditations for ex-smokers on a synthesis of Ayn Rand's objectivism, 12-step chemical dependency treatment principles, and the work of addication counselor Joseph Zeitchick, the Holmeses have developed a personal, empowering, choice-driven self-help book. Designed to help ex-smokers realize that they are still free to smoke -- as free as they are to choose not to smoke -- the slightly repetitive book gives the power of freedom and autonomy back to ex-smokers. Not smoking isn't about restrictions, discipline, or guilt. It's about choice. And it feels better to choose not to smoke.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Good.
People's Park by Alan Copeland (Ballantine, 1969)
A catalog of sorts from a photography exhibit held at Phoenix Gallery in Berkeley, California, this book recounts the reclamation, reconstruction, and ultimate destruction of the Bay Area's countercultural landmark. The more than 100 black-and-white images collected show elements of community spirit, hope, cooperation, and creativity, as well as aspects of repression, an emergent police state, protest, violence, and community-wide horror at the reaction of area authorities. Even though the promise of People's Park was in the end thwarted, this book -- and the events of April 20 to June 20, 1969 -- stand as a testament to the catalyzing creativity of community. Let a thousand parks bloom!
Days to read: 1. Rating: Good.
The Real Moon of Poetry and Other Poems by Tina Brown Celona (Fence, 2002)
Celona writes poems about poetry sometimes, often giving the words she uses and writes about characteristics and the force of nature. Occasionally presenting snapshots of a scene or, in the longer pieces, delving into the thought process of the poet or poem's subject, Celona writes poetry with a clever edge and a hint of soon-disspelled darkness. I'm not quite sure what making the process so visible in her product achieves, but there are several poems here that I'll read again -- and to friends.
Days to read: 2. Rating: Good.
Sandbox Wisdom: Revolutionize Your Brand with the Genius of Childhood by Tom Asacker (Eastside, 2000)
Presented in the form of a fable, this thinly written quick read suggests that business people need to take more cues from children if they're going to reclaim their creativity, productivity, and work relationships. The granddaughter of a retired executive shares lessons about enthusiasm, empathy, genuineness, attention, chaos, faith, and intimacy. Asacker addresses ground already covered, but it's a short book, and sometimes reminders are needed.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Fair.
The Sheep Look Up by John Brunner (Ballantine, 1972)
Guess who my more recent science-fiction author is? John Brunner. This dystopian ecological cautionary tale is a politically pointed commentary on the decaying state of our environmental, food, sanitation, and water systems. Taking place over the course of a year, the novel weaves several parallel storylines featuring various actors in the situation -- from an absentee president and the importer of infected water filters to a mediagenic opinion leader and Austin Train, the man who could save the world.
Days to read: 6. Rating: Excellent.
Shutterbug Follies: A Graphic Novel by Jason Little (Doubleday, 2002)
I ran into Little at a bookstore reading the day his book hit the shelves -- he'd biked into Manhattan from Brooklyn to see if stores were stocking it. The book's worth a bike ride. Well-designed and lavishly colored, Follies is an action-packed mystery story starring Bee, an avid photography. Previously serialized online, Follies reads better in print, as the pacing of parts requires immediate reading. It was occasionally frustrating to read the strip on the Web, but this book is far from a frustration.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Excellent.
The Ten Demandments: Rules to Live by in the Age of the Demanding Customer by Kelly Mooney with Laura Bergheim (McGraw-Hill, 2002)
A conversational, constructively critical book, the Ten Demandments outlines a new approach to customer service, as well as sales and marketing. Mooney's 10 ideas, which range from "earn my trust" to "stay with me," are equal parts common sense and bright ideas. The book is peppered with sidebar examples from companies such as Netflix and Procter & Gamble, and the Voice of the Customer segments offer a good reality check straight from consumers. A breezy, well-reasoned book that, while not overly tactical, is worth considering.
Days to read: 73. Rating: Good.
Time-Jump by John Brunner (Dell, 1973)
Previously, I've only read Brunner's novel Shockwave Rider, a wonderful book that presaged much of the cyberpunk science-fiction subgenre. This collection of 10 short stories brings Fredric Brown to mind and encapsulates many dark, thoughtful themes. Of special note are the Galactic Consumer Report pieces, which, while touching on aspects of time travel, wish fulfillment, and consumer research, build to an impressive crescendo. Brunner doesn't shy away from sex, either, and caps the anthology with a better approach to the "Running Man" concept.
Days to read: 3. Rating: Excellent.
Up the Down Staircase by Bel Kaufman (Avon, 1964)
I first read this comedic commentary on the sad state of public education in New York City when I was in junior high forensics. I reread it in one sitting during a recent Anchormen mixing session, and it's aged well. Kaufman's story is told through school circulars, memos between teachers, rules and regulations, a suggestion box, and other school-centric ephemera. Over the course of the novel, the first-time teacher matures as an instructor and makes a sizable impact on the teenagers in her classes. Touching.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Excellent.
Up the Organization: How to Stop the Corporation from Stifling People and Strangling Profits by Robert Townsend (Fawcett Crest, 1970)
Purchased in a used book store in Manchester, NH, while on a scooter tour with Tom Asacker, this book proves that the new economy was not so new. The former executive of American Express and Avis offers cheeky, creative, and critical insights on the role and state of advertising, assistants, boards of directors, budgets, expense accounts, the Harvard Business School, investors, meetings, office parties, and policy manuals to present a "survival manual for successful corporate guerrillas" that's as valid now as it was then.
Days to read: 3. Rating: Excellent.
These are the books I read in September, October, and November 2002.
After the Quake by Haruki Murakami (Knopf, 2002)
Written as responses to the Kobe earthquake in 1995, these six short stories neither challenge Murakami's longer fiction of recent years nore improves on his previous short story collection. Several of the pieces end on an up note, usually with a main character finding new or true love -- "UFO in Kushiro" and "Honey Pie" -- but for the most part, the overarching tone is one of loss or at least resolution to settle for less -- or what is ("Landscape with Flatiron" and "Thailand"). That resonance borders on remorseful realization, at least in "All God's Children Can Dance," and the stories, while not totally dark, don't dance with the sentiment or humor of Murakami's other work.
Days to read: 2. Rating: Good.
American Flagg!: State of the Union by Howard Chaykin (First, 1989)
Not as lush illustration-wise or as pulp-like in its writing as Chaykin's recent work, American Flagg! still shows his fashion illustration by way of adventure hero style. Flagg works his way through a web of corruption and destruction, wending a path through stupid cyborgs, inept mayors, and talking cats. The story is left up in the air as a mysterious figure claims power and challengs Flagg, but it's clear that Flagg's among the good guys and that the good guys will win.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Good.
The Color of Summer by Reinaldo Arenas (Penguin, 1990)
After watching Before Night Falls with Andrea, I knew that I had to read Arenas -- and soon. This is the fourth of five autobiographical novels Arenas wrote, and it's a good place to begin. As a gay Cuban dissident, Arenas faced multiple oppressions under the Castro regime. This novel -- combining elements of magic realism with the surreal decadence of William Burroughs -- is a comic political commentary, celebration of freedom (sexual and otherwise), and a cry for help. I wish I knew more about Cuban literature, as there are many pseudonymous and not-so-thinly veiled pastiche appreciations woven throughout. Brilliant.
Days to read: 12. Rating: Excellent.
Covering the '60s: George Lois, the Esquire Era (Monacelli, 1996)
An interesting counterpoint to the 25th anniversary collection of Heavy Metal covers, this retrospective of George Lois' absolutely brilliant cover designs from 1962-1972 was done exactly how a book like this should be done. Reproducing the covers with full bleed and including commentary by Lois on the thought and creative process behind each image -- even offering the inside scoop on the political and financial fallout from some of the riskier editorial decisions -- the book is an amazing look back at one of the best decades in magazine design, as well as an appreciative design memoir of -- and manual by -- Lois. A book to be revisited.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Excellent.
Fifty-One Tales by Lord Dunsany (Wildside, 2002)
These 51 short, short stories written by Edward John Moreton Drax Plunkett, the 18th baron of an ancient line who was born in Ireland in the late 1800s, helped form the basis of inspiration for fantasy writers in the early 20th century such as H.P. Lovecraft. The stories, fantastic fables, criticize urbanization, industrialization, and progress, combining political commentary with moral, mythic narration. Lightly humorous, the stories don't quite astound, but Dunsany's impact and importance is evident.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Good.
Ghosts of Boston Town: Three Centuries of True Hauntings by Holly Mascott Nadler (Down East, 2002)
Read shortly after Halloween, this retelling of supernatural activities in the Boston area was a welcome distraction while relaxing on the coast of Maine. I appreciate the occasional geographic specificity -- the ghost in the North End, the origin of Edgar Allen Poe's Cask of Amontillado, spooks in Charlesgate Hall, and the burials in Boston Common -- but for the most part, third-person retellings of ghost stories lack a needed legitimacy and science. Regardless, this book will have me pounding the pavement looking for some landmarks.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Good.
Gilmore Girls: I Love You, You Idiot by Cathy East Dubowski (Harper, 2002)
Another media tie-in novel based on six teleplays for the TV series. The adaptation of "That Damn Donna Reed" loses some of the visual punch that was in the episode where Rory cooks dinner for Dean, I'm sure, so I'm slightly thankful there's a center photo section of stills. The sense of humor and near-verbatim dialogue continues to carry the cleverness and care of the show.
Days to read: 9. Rating: Good.
Gilmore Girls: Like Mother, Like Daughter by Catharine Clark (Harper, 2002)
This media tie-in adapted from five television screenplays -- including the pilot -- of this series on the WB is a welcome find before the Sunday reruns and new series begin. While I'm a relative newcomer to the program, I think Clark adapts the series well. While I'm not the biggest fan of Rory's first-person narration, the pacing of the language used in the dialogue and the almost-frantic, rapid-fire humor is awesome and represents the show's scripts well.
Days to read: 2. Rating: Good.
Gravediggers' Party by Gahan Wilson (IBooks, 2002)
Wilson is a hidden gem, an extremely prolific cartoonist whose ghastly gag panels lurk like lycanthropes within the otherwise harmless pages of magazines such as the New Yorker and Playboy. These 150 cartoons are drawn from several decades of work and run the gamut -- and gantlet -- of Wilson's creative output. Whether the comics are clean line drawings or darkly colored scenes, Wilson's skewed view of the world is full of monsters -- human and otherwise. A disturbing joy to take in all at once.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Excellent.
Heavy Metal: 25 Years of Classic Covers by John Workman (Heavy Metal, 2002)
Despite my general disinterest in the European genre comics that Heavy Metal -- now published by Kevin Eastman -- translates and reprints, I've got to recognize the magazine's flair for cover design. Workman, who served as the magazine's art director for its first seven years, compiles almost 300 covers by fantasy artists such as Moebius, Bernie Wrightson, Howard Chaykin, Boris Vallejo, and others. The anniversary book could have benefited from larger reproduction of most of the images and more historical perspective on the magazine's relationship with National Lampoon, its inclusion of interviews, and its attempts to move into other media. But the artwork, though cliched, is beautiful, and the covers are well worth collecting.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Fair.
John Collier and Fredric Brown Went Quarreling Through My Head by Jessica Amanda Salmonson (Ganley, 1989)
These 27 stories were written between 1966 and 1985 by long-time small press contributor Salmonson, editor of Fantasy Macabre. She described these short pieces as "little horrors," and the influence of the two authors named in the title is clear. In fact, Salmonson dedicates many of the stories collected here to the authors that inspired them, including James Blish, Clifford Simak, Ray Bradbury, H.P. Lovecraft, Rod Serling, and Fritz Leiber. Despite Salmonson's transparent dependence on genre fiction, the collection communicates with the economy of a Twilight Zone episode, sharing several startling visions even if no single story stands out.
Days to read: NA. Rating: Fair.
Little Walks for Sightseers #16: A Walking Tour of the Shambles by Gene Wolfe and Neil Gaiman (American Fantasy, 2002)
A guidebook to an imaginary neighborhood that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, this pamphlet is a clever portrayal of a place that might have been. Wolfe and Gaiman detail local sites to see -- and to skip entirely, sometimes -- as well as some of the speculative history, lore, and personages that help produce the Shambles. Their descriptions are complete and their advice well-heeded. More people should pen fictional tour guides!
Days to read: 1. Rating: Good.
Mass MoCA: From Mill to Museum by Nicholas Whitman (Mass MoCA, 2000)
Published in conjunction with the opening of the groundbreaking arts and business anchor in North Adams, Massachusetts, this book combines several contextual essays on the redevelopment project with photographs by Nicholas Whitman. Whitman began his photographic work in 1988, before the Sprague Electric Co. began its transformation into Mass MoCA, and the photos, which cover the 12 years between Sprague's closing and the museum's opening, ably capture the decrepit buildings that were rejuvenated, how the architects retained many of the original structural features, and the arts and technology Renaissance that's come to North Adams. One of my favorite places.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Excellent.
Mr. Bounce by Roger Hargreaves (Price Stern Sloan, 1976)
I loved these Mr. Men and Little Miss books when I was in kindergarten, and it's hard not to love them now. With almost 100 different titles, the short and simple stories play off a single quality of the eponymous characters -- often ending with a flat punchline. Take this volume. Mr. Bounce, well, bounces. Into a duck pond, down the stairs, across a tennis net (several times), off of a bus, and into a doctor's cup of coffee. The doctor is able to grant Mr. Bounce a prescription to cure his ills, but in the end, the cure poses a problem of its own. Extremely quick reads, the books are most notable for Hargreave's colorful artwork.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Fair.
Nice Hat. Thanks. by Joshua Beckman and Matthew Rohrer (Verse, 2002)
The shorter poems are better than the longer poems, particularly because the four- and five-line poems often repeat themselves, which leads one to think about padding and promise. The "long" poems, poems of more than five lines, fare slightly better, allowing these New York-based wordsmiths to do more with imagery and illustration. There are many good ideas here -- ideas about art, time, urban life, love, nature, and process -- but there aren't as many good poems.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Good.
Organizing Workspace: A to Z by Hope Lafferty ([S]pace, 2000)
Lafferty's a living and workspace organizational consultant, and this slim volume is her alphabetical guide to cutting through the clutter in your life. Lafferty addresses your desk at work, databases, email, fax cover sheets, poverty consciousness, and your wallet, as well as other topics. I'm quite skeptical of the value of simplification guides such as this, but Lafferty makes some suggestions I'll find useful -- such as reading magazines I subscribe to the day they arrive in the mail.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Fair.
Out of the Ashes: Help for People Who Have Stopped Smoking by Peter and Peggy Holmes (Fairview, 1992)
Basing this little book of meditations for ex-smokers on a synthesis of Ayn Rand's objectivism, 12-step chemical dependency treatment principles, and the work of addication counselor Joseph Zeitchick, the Holmeses have developed a personal, empowering, choice-driven self-help book. Designed to help ex-smokers realize that they are still free to smoke -- as free as they are to choose not to smoke -- the slightly repetitive book gives the power of freedom and autonomy back to ex-smokers. Not smoking isn't about restrictions, discipline, or guilt. It's about choice. And it feels better to choose not to smoke.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Good.
People's Park by Alan Copeland (Ballantine, 1969)
A catalog of sorts from a photography exhibit held at Phoenix Gallery in Berkeley, California, this book recounts the reclamation, reconstruction, and ultimate destruction of the Bay Area's countercultural landmark. The more than 100 black-and-white images collected show elements of community spirit, hope, cooperation, and creativity, as well as aspects of repression, an emergent police state, protest, violence, and community-wide horror at the reaction of area authorities. Even though the promise of People's Park was in the end thwarted, this book -- and the events of April 20 to June 20, 1969 -- stand as a testament to the catalyzing creativity of community. Let a thousand parks bloom!
Days to read: 1. Rating: Good.
The Real Moon of Poetry and Other Poems by Tina Brown Celona (Fence, 2002)
Celona writes poems about poetry sometimes, often giving the words she uses and writes about characteristics and the force of nature. Occasionally presenting snapshots of a scene or, in the longer pieces, delving into the thought process of the poet or poem's subject, Celona writes poetry with a clever edge and a hint of soon-disspelled darkness. I'm not quite sure what making the process so visible in her product achieves, but there are several poems here that I'll read again -- and to friends.
Days to read: 2. Rating: Good.
Sandbox Wisdom: Revolutionize Your Brand with the Genius of Childhood by Tom Asacker (Eastside, 2000)
Presented in the form of a fable, this thinly written quick read suggests that business people need to take more cues from children if they're going to reclaim their creativity, productivity, and work relationships. The granddaughter of a retired executive shares lessons about enthusiasm, empathy, genuineness, attention, chaos, faith, and intimacy. Asacker addresses ground already covered, but it's a short book, and sometimes reminders are needed.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Fair.
The Sheep Look Up by John Brunner (Ballantine, 1972)
Guess who my more recent science-fiction author is? John Brunner. This dystopian ecological cautionary tale is a politically pointed commentary on the decaying state of our environmental, food, sanitation, and water systems. Taking place over the course of a year, the novel weaves several parallel storylines featuring various actors in the situation -- from an absentee president and the importer of infected water filters to a mediagenic opinion leader and Austin Train, the man who could save the world.
Days to read: 6. Rating: Excellent.
Shutterbug Follies: A Graphic Novel by Jason Little (Doubleday, 2002)
I ran into Little at a bookstore reading the day his book hit the shelves -- he'd biked into Manhattan from Brooklyn to see if stores were stocking it. The book's worth a bike ride. Well-designed and lavishly colored, Follies is an action-packed mystery story starring Bee, an avid photography. Previously serialized online, Follies reads better in print, as the pacing of parts requires immediate reading. It was occasionally frustrating to read the strip on the Web, but this book is far from a frustration.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Excellent.
The Ten Demandments: Rules to Live by in the Age of the Demanding Customer by Kelly Mooney with Laura Bergheim (McGraw-Hill, 2002)
A conversational, constructively critical book, the Ten Demandments outlines a new approach to customer service, as well as sales and marketing. Mooney's 10 ideas, which range from "earn my trust" to "stay with me," are equal parts common sense and bright ideas. The book is peppered with sidebar examples from companies such as Netflix and Procter & Gamble, and the Voice of the Customer segments offer a good reality check straight from consumers. A breezy, well-reasoned book that, while not overly tactical, is worth considering.
Days to read: 73. Rating: Good.
Time-Jump by John Brunner (Dell, 1973)
Previously, I've only read Brunner's novel Shockwave Rider, a wonderful book that presaged much of the cyberpunk science-fiction subgenre. This collection of 10 short stories brings Fredric Brown to mind and encapsulates many dark, thoughtful themes. Of special note are the Galactic Consumer Report pieces, which, while touching on aspects of time travel, wish fulfillment, and consumer research, build to an impressive crescendo. Brunner doesn't shy away from sex, either, and caps the anthology with a better approach to the "Running Man" concept.
Days to read: 3. Rating: Excellent.
Up the Down Staircase by Bel Kaufman (Avon, 1964)
I first read this comedic commentary on the sad state of public education in New York City when I was in junior high forensics. I reread it in one sitting during a recent Anchormen mixing session, and it's aged well. Kaufman's story is told through school circulars, memos between teachers, rules and regulations, a suggestion box, and other school-centric ephemera. Over the course of the novel, the first-time teacher matures as an instructor and makes a sizable impact on the teenagers in her classes. Touching.
Days to read: 1. Rating: Excellent.
Up the Organization: How to Stop the Corporation from Stifling People and Strangling Profits by Robert Townsend (Fawcett Crest, 1970)
Purchased in a used book store in Manchester, NH, while on a scooter tour with Tom Asacker, this book proves that the new economy was not so new. The former executive of American Express and Avis offers cheeky, creative, and critical insights on the role and state of advertising, assistants, boards of directors, budgets, expense accounts, the Harvard Business School, investors, meetings, office parties, and policy manuals to present a "survival manual for successful corporate guerrillas" that's as valid now as it was then.
Days to read: 3. Rating: Excellent.
Event-O-Dex XIX
There's a free all-ages show at Planet Aid, 30 John F. Kennedy St., in Cambridge this weekend.
Victory at Sea
Seana Carmody
The Sea Navy
Esker Moraine
Starts at 6 p.m. Saturday.
The space that Planet Aid has claimed has an interesting history. Believe it or not, it used to be a basement nightclub. Word is that James Brown once played on the stage there. The Anchormen have played at Planet Aid. That means that the Anchormen shared the stage with James Brown!
There's a free all-ages show at Planet Aid, 30 John F. Kennedy St., in Cambridge this weekend.
Starts at 6 p.m. Saturday.
The space that Planet Aid has claimed has an interesting history. Believe it or not, it used to be a basement nightclub. Word is that James Brown once played on the stage there. The Anchormen have played at Planet Aid. That means that the Anchormen shared the stage with James Brown!
Pulling the Plug IX
Ed Hazell has written a nice appreciation and belated epitaph for the Willow, a long-gone Somerville jazz spot. I only went to the Willow once or twice -- once hanging out with Stu Vandermark and his wife -- but I miss it quite a bit. RIP, Willow. RIP.
Ed Hazell has written a nice appreciation and belated epitaph for the Willow, a long-gone Somerville jazz spot. I only went to the Willow once or twice -- once hanging out with Stu Vandermark and his wife -- but I miss it quite a bit. RIP, Willow. RIP.
Workaday World VIII
Fast Company is looking for a marketing whiz to produce high-return marketing campaigns for Inc. and Fast Company events. This role is an opportunity to reach out to a community of Inc. and FC subscribers and get them to join us in person at one of our many events.
Primary responsibilities of this role include:
Prepare and execute project plans for all consumer marketing efforts and onsite event support materials.
Manage event marketing database.
Execute electronic marketing efforts.
Conduct and compile research on our customers and competitors.
Create and track marketing budget for each project.
A strong background in database management is a must, as is a passion for creating innovative marketing campaigns.
If you or someone you know would be interested in this position, please contact Elizabeth Busch.
Fast Company is looking for a marketing whiz to produce high-return marketing campaigns for Inc. and Fast Company events. This role is an opportunity to reach out to a community of Inc. and FC subscribers and get them to join us in person at one of our many events.
Primary responsibilities of this role include:
A strong background in database management is a must, as is a passion for creating innovative marketing campaigns.
If you or someone you know would be interested in this position, please contact Elizabeth Busch.
Wednesday, December 04, 2002
The Movie I Watched Last Night XLV
Josie and the Pussycats
The first time I saw this movie -- not fully paying attention while at a hotel -- I didn't realize how similar the plot was to that of Zoolander. The storyline tells the tale of a down-on-its-luck rock band -- Josie and the Pussycats, based on Dan DeCarlo's Archie Comics characters -- that rapidly climbs the ladder to fame with the help of an evil mastermind. Alan Cumming's Paul Reubens-like portrayal of the band manager Wyatt Frame is strongly yet simperingly evil as he assists Parker Posey's insecure Fiona character embed subliminal marketing messages in pop music. The band catches onto the plot and foils their evil plan. Shades of Zoolander in its script and Charlie's Angels in its cinematography, Josie and the Pussycats includes some snarky asides about the comic book (i.e. the Cabot twins' exchange: "Why are you here?" "I was in the comic book."), arch commentary on the state of pop music (Exhibit A: the Seth Green-fronted boy band Du Jour, which provides some of the best scenes), and a wonderful soundtrack featuring Letters to Cleo's Kay Hanley. Despite its genetic distance from the comic book and cartoons, Josie and the Pussycats is a fun pop romp. Mindless entertainment, but mindless entertainment I'll probably seek out again. That Rachael Leigh Cook is a cutey, to be sure.
The Exorcist
I'm afraid to go out on a limb here, but after watching this movie, I'm not sure what all the fuss is about -- or how it can consistently rank among the scariest movies of all time. Perhaps it's a period thing; the movie came out the year I was born and, I'm sure, was groundbreaking for its time. But seriously? I found The Exorcist light on suspense, much less horror or gore. The opening scenes set in Iraq, while among the best in the film, are tenuously tied to the rest of the movie's events, and while some of the possession's special effects are notable, on the whole, I was disappointed. I'm curious whether that might be because it's practically set in a single room -- the bedroom of the possessed child -- or because the movie's progeny have desentitized me and other movie viewers. Regardless, there was some nice commentary on the ability of the medical profession and on the role a crisis of faith can play in a clergy man's church life. In any event, I'd much rather watch The Omen, which followed three years later. Chalk this up to a Netflix Halloween rental watched a month too late.
Josie and the Pussycats
The first time I saw this movie -- not fully paying attention while at a hotel -- I didn't realize how similar the plot was to that of Zoolander. The storyline tells the tale of a down-on-its-luck rock band -- Josie and the Pussycats, based on Dan DeCarlo's Archie Comics characters -- that rapidly climbs the ladder to fame with the help of an evil mastermind. Alan Cumming's Paul Reubens-like portrayal of the band manager Wyatt Frame is strongly yet simperingly evil as he assists Parker Posey's insecure Fiona character embed subliminal marketing messages in pop music. The band catches onto the plot and foils their evil plan. Shades of Zoolander in its script and Charlie's Angels in its cinematography, Josie and the Pussycats includes some snarky asides about the comic book (i.e. the Cabot twins' exchange: "Why are you here?" "I was in the comic book."), arch commentary on the state of pop music (Exhibit A: the Seth Green-fronted boy band Du Jour, which provides some of the best scenes), and a wonderful soundtrack featuring Letters to Cleo's Kay Hanley. Despite its genetic distance from the comic book and cartoons, Josie and the Pussycats is a fun pop romp. Mindless entertainment, but mindless entertainment I'll probably seek out again. That Rachael Leigh Cook is a cutey, to be sure.
The Exorcist
I'm afraid to go out on a limb here, but after watching this movie, I'm not sure what all the fuss is about -- or how it can consistently rank among the scariest movies of all time. Perhaps it's a period thing; the movie came out the year I was born and, I'm sure, was groundbreaking for its time. But seriously? I found The Exorcist light on suspense, much less horror or gore. The opening scenes set in Iraq, while among the best in the film, are tenuously tied to the rest of the movie's events, and while some of the possession's special effects are notable, on the whole, I was disappointed. I'm curious whether that might be because it's practically set in a single room -- the bedroom of the possessed child -- or because the movie's progeny have desentitized me and other movie viewers. Regardless, there was some nice commentary on the ability of the medical profession and on the role a crisis of faith can play in a clergy man's church life. In any event, I'd much rather watch The Omen, which followed three years later. Chalk this up to a Netflix Halloween rental watched a month too late.
Pieces, Particles X
The following media-related stories recently spotted in print publications might be worth a look. Heads and decks, only. Heads and decks.
Alternative Approaches by Lucia Moses, Editor & Publisher, Dec. 2, 2002
As dailies look to young, alt-weeklies skew older. Who's a threat to whom?
Bumping into Mr. Ravioli by Adam Gopnik, The New Yorker, Sept. 30, 2002
A theory of busyness, and its hero.
A Disastrous Desk Fits in Neatly with His Working Order by David Polochanin, Boston Globe, Dec. 1, 2002
I take a crude sense of pride in the fact that my desk is one of the more disorganized ones in my building.
Full Circle by Shoshana Berger, ReadyMade, No. 4
The paper wheel returns
How to Fix the Sports Pages by Bob Drury, GQ, October 2002
That sports section you pored over this morning could be a lot more enticing, fun and truthful if only its editors would listen to our grizzled veterans of the press box
In My Lifes by Bill Barol, American Journalism Review, December 2002
What began as an impulse buy became a quest to preserve history. And then there was eBay.
Irrational Exuberance by Stephen Todd, New York Times Magazine, Dec. 1, 2002
Tyler Brule's style bible, Wallpaper, epitomized the glossy, flossy aesthetic of late-90's design obsession.
Joe Viewer and the Internet by Barb Palser, American Journalism Review, December 2002
He has a laptop on the coffee table. Use the Net to keep him engaged.
The Meanest Man on Television by Neil Swidey, Boston Globe Magazine, Dec. 1, 2002
Bill O'Reilly, host of the cable news show The O'Reilly Factor, is an arrogant, controlling know-it-all. And that's exactly why he's so popular.
My James Taylor Problem by Joe Queenan, GQ, November 2002
It's not that I hate his work (though I do). It's that I can't get away from it
The Nerds of Weather by Fred Guterl, Newsweek, Sept. 30, 2002
Where does your "local" AccuWeather forecast come from? A little building in rural Pennsylvania.
A New Brand World by Don Aucoin, Boston Globe Magazine, Dec. 1, 2002
Personality and image don't cut it anymore. Now, like any successful company, you've got to have your own "branding strategy."
A New Poland, No Joke by Sarah Boxer, New York Times Magazine, Dec. 1, 2002
Can one little logo change a country's image from the land of cold, sadness and vodka to the home of youth, playfulness and hope?
"Shut Up He Explained" by Terrence Rafferty, GQ, October 2002
When it comes to spinning sports into literary gold, Ring Lardner was, simply, the greatest. You should get to know "You Know Me Al"
Trying to Save "The World" by Edgar Allen Beem, Down East, November 2002
Nicholson Baker is on a one-man crusade to stop libraries from routinely destroying their collections of historic newspapers and to persuade them to start saving today's papers.
Wiket Good Question: How Smaht Are You? by Benjamin Gedan, Boston Globe, Dec. 1, 2002
If you know what Ball Square diner was replaced by Kelly's after a fire in 1995, or the name of FDR's Somerville-born secretary, you might have a chance on the city's game show, "Wiket Smaht."
A Writer's Fall from Grace by Seth Mnookin, Newsweek, Sept. 30, 2002
A teen sex scandal fells a famous Chicago scribe
If you work for a magazine and would like to sign me up for a complimentary subscription, please feel free to do so. My address is in the grey bar over on the left.
The following media-related stories recently spotted in print publications might be worth a look. Heads and decks, only. Heads and decks.
Alternative Approaches by Lucia Moses, Editor & Publisher, Dec. 2, 2002
As dailies look to young, alt-weeklies skew older. Who's a threat to whom?
Bumping into Mr. Ravioli by Adam Gopnik, The New Yorker, Sept. 30, 2002
A theory of busyness, and its hero.
A Disastrous Desk Fits in Neatly with His Working Order by David Polochanin, Boston Globe, Dec. 1, 2002
I take a crude sense of pride in the fact that my desk is one of the more disorganized ones in my building.
Full Circle by Shoshana Berger, ReadyMade, No. 4
The paper wheel returns
How to Fix the Sports Pages by Bob Drury, GQ, October 2002
That sports section you pored over this morning could be a lot more enticing, fun and truthful if only its editors would listen to our grizzled veterans of the press box
In My Lifes by Bill Barol, American Journalism Review, December 2002
What began as an impulse buy became a quest to preserve history. And then there was eBay.
Irrational Exuberance by Stephen Todd, New York Times Magazine, Dec. 1, 2002
Tyler Brule's style bible, Wallpaper, epitomized the glossy, flossy aesthetic of late-90's design obsession.
Joe Viewer and the Internet by Barb Palser, American Journalism Review, December 2002
He has a laptop on the coffee table. Use the Net to keep him engaged.
The Meanest Man on Television by Neil Swidey, Boston Globe Magazine, Dec. 1, 2002
Bill O'Reilly, host of the cable news show The O'Reilly Factor, is an arrogant, controlling know-it-all. And that's exactly why he's so popular.
My James Taylor Problem by Joe Queenan, GQ, November 2002
It's not that I hate his work (though I do). It's that I can't get away from it
The Nerds of Weather by Fred Guterl, Newsweek, Sept. 30, 2002
Where does your "local" AccuWeather forecast come from? A little building in rural Pennsylvania.
A New Brand World by Don Aucoin, Boston Globe Magazine, Dec. 1, 2002
Personality and image don't cut it anymore. Now, like any successful company, you've got to have your own "branding strategy."
A New Poland, No Joke by Sarah Boxer, New York Times Magazine, Dec. 1, 2002
Can one little logo change a country's image from the land of cold, sadness and vodka to the home of youth, playfulness and hope?
"Shut Up He Explained" by Terrence Rafferty, GQ, October 2002
When it comes to spinning sports into literary gold, Ring Lardner was, simply, the greatest. You should get to know "You Know Me Al"
Trying to Save "The World" by Edgar Allen Beem, Down East, November 2002
Nicholson Baker is on a one-man crusade to stop libraries from routinely destroying their collections of historic newspapers and to persuade them to start saving today's papers.
Wiket Good Question: How Smaht Are You? by Benjamin Gedan, Boston Globe, Dec. 1, 2002
If you know what Ball Square diner was replaced by Kelly's after a fire in 1995, or the name of FDR's Somerville-born secretary, you might have a chance on the city's game show, "Wiket Smaht."
A Writer's Fall from Grace by Seth Mnookin, Newsweek, Sept. 30, 2002
A teen sex scandal fells a famous Chicago scribe
If you work for a magazine and would like to sign me up for a complimentary subscription, please feel free to do so. My address is in the grey bar over on the left.
Employee of the Week II
Media Diet would like to recognize the following Fifth Man Media employees for their service above and beyond the call of duty:
Knows when to fold 'em
Samael Samuelson really saved Fifth Man Media's financial bacon last week. Just when our CFO, Joe "Go Home" Josephson, was starting to think we'd run out of of liquid assets -- and cash, too -- by the end of the year, Samuelson put his mind to work. Furrowing and unfurrowing his brow in fierce concentration as he mulled over the problem, Samuelson discovered $2.3 billion tucked away in one of the furrows in his forehead. "It was a real motherlode, and it fell right into my lap," Samuelson remembers. "But I'm male, so it was a fatherlode, I guess." Thanks, Samuelson! We won't make fun of the way you knit your brows again. 'Cause... a knit in time... saved this company's... dime! Yeah.
Media Diet would like to recognize the following Fifth Man Media employees for their service above and beyond the call of duty:
Knows when to fold 'em
Samael Samuelson really saved Fifth Man Media's financial bacon last week. Just when our CFO, Joe "Go Home" Josephson, was starting to think we'd run out of of liquid assets -- and cash, too -- by the end of the year, Samuelson put his mind to work. Furrowing and unfurrowing his brow in fierce concentration as he mulled over the problem, Samuelson discovered $2.3 billion tucked away in one of the furrows in his forehead. "It was a real motherlode, and it fell right into my lap," Samuelson remembers. "But I'm male, so it was a fatherlode, I guess." Thanks, Samuelson! We won't make fun of the way you knit your brows again. 'Cause... a knit in time... saved this company's... dime! Yeah.
Digesting the Daily V
Recent editions of the Daily Northwestern, the student newspaper of my alma mater, featured several media-, technology-, and activism-related items that might be of interest to Media Dieticians.
From Daily drawing to Walt Disney directing
He put the jazz in Princess Jasmine. Can John Musker save animation?
(Nov. 21, 2002)
Universities use online journals for recruiting
Students given books, digital cameras for free -- in exchange for life stories
(Nov. 25, 2002)
NU musicians explore untapped Asian sound
Asian student groups sponsor concert; showcase mix of rock, rap, pop music
(Nov. 26, 2002)
If you work for a college newspaper and would like to sign me up for a complimentary subscription, please feel free to do so. My address is in the grey bar over on the left.
Recent editions of the Daily Northwestern, the student newspaper of my alma mater, featured several media-, technology-, and activism-related items that might be of interest to Media Dieticians.
From Daily drawing to Walt Disney directing
He put the jazz in Princess Jasmine. Can John Musker save animation?
(Nov. 21, 2002)
Universities use online journals for recruiting
Students given books, digital cameras for free -- in exchange for life stories
(Nov. 25, 2002)
NU musicians explore untapped Asian sound
Asian student groups sponsor concert; showcase mix of rock, rap, pop music
(Nov. 26, 2002)
If you work for a college newspaper and would like to sign me up for a complimentary subscription, please feel free to do so. My address is in the grey bar over on the left.
Tuesday, December 03, 2002
Event-O-Dex XVIII
Oh, Somerville is hopping this week. To add to the festivities on Davis Square on Thursday and Friday -- including the awesomeawesome Bazaar Bizarre -- there's a solid show Saturday at the Abbey Lounge on Inman Square. Bands include Capital City, Choo Choo La Rouge, Jonathan Donaldson, and Paul Curreri (in reverse order). Festivities kick off at 8:45 p.m., and Capital City will rage the stage at 11:30. This is Capital City's last show in Boston this year (whatever that means), and is, therefore, a rare (I guess) opportunity to dress sexy, stand up front, and scream "Geech!" with all your heart and soul.
Oh, Somerville is hopping this week. To add to the festivities on Davis Square on Thursday and Friday -- including the awesomeawesome Bazaar Bizarre -- there's a solid show Saturday at the Abbey Lounge on Inman Square. Bands include Capital City, Choo Choo La Rouge, Jonathan Donaldson, and Paul Curreri (in reverse order). Festivities kick off at 8:45 p.m., and Capital City will rage the stage at 11:30. This is Capital City's last show in Boston this year (whatever that means), and is, therefore, a rare (I guess) opportunity to dress sexy, stand up front, and scream "Geech!" with all your heart and soul.
Music to My Eyes V
Now this is how the music video should've been made in the first place -- none of that people scurrying around in the kitchen nonsense.
Thanks to Joe Sizzle.
Now this is how the music video should've been made in the first place -- none of that people scurrying around in the kitchen nonsense.
Thanks to Joe Sizzle.
Why I Haven't Posted Today
I have a bunch of new Media Diet entries all lined up and ready to go, including yet more zine and comic reviews, a couple of movie reviews, and a handful of 7-inch record reviews. But I've been busy today! First, Blogger was down. Then I spent several hours helping to start the judging process for Fast Company's Fast 50 readers' challenge. And then I had oodles of Outlook technical difficulties.
You see, I keep rather ample email logs -- and keep archives of outgoing and other important messages to augment my memory dating back to 1997. That's a lot of email. And even though Outlook only manages my work-related emails dating back to April 2001, that's still a lot of email. And Outlook doesn't seem to know what to do with it all. So it does nothing and makes the email inaccessible.
That means that my memory -- and productivity -- suffers. Wait... what was I writing about? What a disjointed, disconnected day! Fingers crossed that tomorrow will be warmer... and better on the tech tip.
I have a bunch of new Media Diet entries all lined up and ready to go, including yet more zine and comic reviews, a couple of movie reviews, and a handful of 7-inch record reviews. But I've been busy today! First, Blogger was down. Then I spent several hours helping to start the judging process for Fast Company's Fast 50 readers' challenge. And then I had oodles of Outlook technical difficulties.
You see, I keep rather ample email logs -- and keep archives of outgoing and other important messages to augment my memory dating back to 1997. That's a lot of email. And even though Outlook only manages my work-related emails dating back to April 2001, that's still a lot of email. And Outlook doesn't seem to know what to do with it all. So it does nothing and makes the email inaccessible.
That means that my memory -- and productivity -- suffers. Wait... what was I writing about? What a disjointed, disconnected day! Fingers crossed that tomorrow will be warmer... and better on the tech tip.
Monday, December 02, 2002
Event-O-Dex XVII
Thanksgiving has come and gone, and Christmas is around the corner -- which means that it's time for the holiday social schedule to pick up! This Friday, the second annual Bazaar Bizarre, a punk-rock crafts fair that Handstand Command is involved in, takes place at the Dilboy on Davis Square.
It's definitely one of the better holiday-related events in the Boston area. I'll be there, probably working the Handstand Command merch table to peddle Anchormen products.
Also, the night before, this Thursday, a friend is organizing a party at the Dilboy. Two nights at the Dilboy? Too much! I'm not sure how open the invitation is, but there we go. Media Dieticians are invited. Ask for me by name if you don't know anyone and people start looking at you funny.
Thanksgiving has come and gone, and Christmas is around the corner -- which means that it's time for the holiday social schedule to pick up! This Friday, the second annual Bazaar Bizarre, a punk-rock crafts fair that Handstand Command is involved in, takes place at the Dilboy on Davis Square.
It's definitely one of the better holiday-related events in the Boston area. I'll be there, probably working the Handstand Command merch table to peddle Anchormen products.
Also, the night before, this Thursday, a friend is organizing a party at the Dilboy. Two nights at the Dilboy? Too much! I'm not sure how open the invitation is, but there we go. Media Dieticians are invited. Ask for me by name if you don't know anyone and people start looking at you funny.
From the In Box: From the Reading Pile XIII
Thanks for the too nice review. Jordan's a neighbor, but ironically, I hadn't read much of his stuff till after I finished Oceanus. Now I rip him off like crazy! Just kidding. The guy's a big influence now (He's taught me how to screenprint properly, for one thing).
Your reviews page is chock full o' content. I saved it to my laptop 'cause I need something on a road trip I'm taking today.
You're in the Anchormen? Who wrote that "Raina Lee" song? That's my girlfriend you're talkin' 'bout! Actually, we both love the hilarity and flattering quality of it. Glad to see someone else sees many of the things I see in her. And that they live on the East Coast.
On a related note, get ready for 1-UP #3. In addition to stellar content and editorial, Raina and I have worked out for illustration work this incredible lineup: Jordan, Jason Shiga, KozynDan, Martin Cendreda, Dave Kiersh, Souther Salazar, Sammy Harkham, holy shit! Exciting. Also, it'll be offset printed, squarebound, two spot colors, mind-blowing. Sorry, I know I sound like a salesman, but from reading some of the reviews on your site, I thought you might be interested to know who some of the contributors might be. -- John Pham
Thanks for the too nice review. Jordan's a neighbor, but ironically, I hadn't read much of his stuff till after I finished Oceanus. Now I rip him off like crazy! Just kidding. The guy's a big influence now (He's taught me how to screenprint properly, for one thing).
Your reviews page is chock full o' content. I saved it to my laptop 'cause I need something on a road trip I'm taking today.
You're in the Anchormen? Who wrote that "Raina Lee" song? That's my girlfriend you're talkin' 'bout! Actually, we both love the hilarity and flattering quality of it. Glad to see someone else sees many of the things I see in her. And that they live on the East Coast.
On a related note, get ready for 1-UP #3. In addition to stellar content and editorial, Raina and I have worked out for illustration work this incredible lineup: Jordan, Jason Shiga, KozynDan, Martin Cendreda, Dave Kiersh, Souther Salazar, Sammy Harkham, holy shit! Exciting. Also, it'll be offset printed, squarebound, two spot colors, mind-blowing. Sorry, I know I sound like a salesman, but from reading some of the reviews on your site, I thought you might be interested to know who some of the contributors might be. -- John Pham
From the In Box: From the Reading Pile XIV: Part 1
Nice site! Some zines and comics I'll have to look for. Never thought I'd manage to be vaguely reminiscent of both Donna Barr and Tom Hart. Presumably not at the same time. Both are great. I'm a little embarrassed that you mentioned the two-years-between-issues thing, but what can I say except there's a story behind that. -- Eli Bishop
***
Thanks for the good review. It is really appreciated. Your interpretation of the comic is a new one. It's a funny thing, 'cause when I was drawing the strip, I figured the symbols used were way too simple, but it seems that everyone I speak to has a different slant on it, which is real nice. Thanks again.
The 5762 on the title page is not a P.O. Box number, but the year according to the Jewish calendar. My address is P.O. Box 2316, Beverly Hills, CA 90212-2316.
Also, I saw you like both Souther's and kiersh's comics as well as the Paper Rodeo/Fort Thunder stuff. Well, I am just finishing up on the fourth issue of an anthology I do that will have both Souther and Kiersh, as well as Matt Brinkman, Leif Goldberg, Chirs Forgues, Ben Jones, Joe Grillo, and Billy and Laura Grant. It's a full-color book, too. Will send you a copy as a thanks for the nice review of the Slumber comic. -- Sammy Harkham
Nice site! Some zines and comics I'll have to look for. Never thought I'd manage to be vaguely reminiscent of both Donna Barr and Tom Hart. Presumably not at the same time. Both are great. I'm a little embarrassed that you mentioned the two-years-between-issues thing, but what can I say except there's a story behind that. -- Eli Bishop
Thanks for the good review. It is really appreciated. Your interpretation of the comic is a new one. It's a funny thing, 'cause when I was drawing the strip, I figured the symbols used were way too simple, but it seems that everyone I speak to has a different slant on it, which is real nice. Thanks again.
The 5762 on the title page is not a P.O. Box number, but the year according to the Jewish calendar. My address is P.O. Box 2316, Beverly Hills, CA 90212-2316.
Also, I saw you like both Souther's and kiersh's comics as well as the Paper Rodeo/Fort Thunder stuff. Well, I am just finishing up on the fourth issue of an anthology I do that will have both Souther and Kiersh, as well as Matt Brinkman, Leif Goldberg, Chirs Forgues, Ben Jones, Joe Grillo, and Billy and Laura Grant. It's a full-color book, too. Will send you a copy as a thanks for the nice review of the Slumber comic. -- Sammy Harkham
Friday, November 29, 2002
Music to My Ears and Eyes
I'm the only one in the office today, and I'm not at all sorry. My Thanksgiving was a holiday full of friends and family, I've gotten a lot of personal Web work done in the cloistered quiet of the cubicles, and I've come across several awesome examples of independent music and animation online thanks to links shared by people whose zines and comics I've reviewed recently. These are all worth checking out:
Flobots: Boston area-based hip hop that's currently pumping my PowerBook
One if by land: An indie-rock band once from Santa Fe, New Mexico, that features three drummers, three bassists, four guitarists, and four singers. Wish I'd known about them when I was in Santa Fe this May!
Graffiti: A Gumby-laden animation from the Paper Radio comics collective
All thanks to Liz Prince, of whose taste I am now much more confident.
I'm the only one in the office today, and I'm not at all sorry. My Thanksgiving was a holiday full of friends and family, I've gotten a lot of personal Web work done in the cloistered quiet of the cubicles, and I've come across several awesome examples of independent music and animation online thanks to links shared by people whose zines and comics I've reviewed recently. These are all worth checking out:
All thanks to Liz Prince, of whose taste I am now much more confident.
From the In Box: The Movie I Watched Last Night XLIV
Alice's Restaurant is a huge deal in my family. So funny that you mention it. The local radio stations in Philly play it every year, I know. Not sure if that happens in every town or not. I just know I grew up hearing it here in Philly. Happy turkey day -- a day late! -- Jennifer Kronstain
Alice's Restaurant is a huge deal in my family. So funny that you mention it. The local radio stations in Philly play it every year, I know. Not sure if that happens in every town or not. I just know I grew up hearing it here in Philly. Happy turkey day -- a day late! -- Jennifer Kronstain
From the Reading Pile XIV: Part 2
Before I can tackle the accumulated zines and comics stacked in the milk crate on the floor by the big blue couch, I need to catch up on some unpublished reviews. Apologies to all involved, but these were penned back in July -- as well as this past Monday.
Bleep, Blop, Bloop: A Celebration of Silliness & Being Friends
Dedicated to Jim Henson, this well-printed 36-page mini by Paul Hornschemeier features two friends who engage in a gleeful dance of mutual appreciation. Hornschemeier's cartoony artwork reminds me of Roger Langridge a little, and the mini, termed an interlude, seems to be part of a larger work entitled Sequential. Gentle, loving, and silly, this mini is intriguing, if not entirely satisfying. $2.50 to IDGI Graphics, 2324 W. Walton #3F, Chicago, IL 60622.
Comic Book Heaven #7
The advertisement on the inside front cover indicates that next year will bring some new comics work by Scott Saavedra, editor of this glorious 36-page fanzine, and -- while welcome; I've missed Dr. Radium -- I hope that it doesn't edge in on Saavedra's comics journalism. More fannish than Alter Ego and more obscure than Scott Shaw's Oddball Comics columns online, each edition of CBH reminds me of why I started reading comics -- the sheer thrill of discovering some new piece of delightful comics ephemera. Whether plugging new self-published periodicals, name dropping the Mad Peck, or presaging Shaw's oddball selections, CBH also retells the tales told in outdated Gold Key, DC, and Charlton comics. Saavedra also analyzes the appearances of mermen in Wonder Woman comics and makes fun of hippies, digging through the back-issue bin of history so we don't have to. The fanzine for true comics fans, not readers or collectors. $2.25 to Slave Labor Graphics, P.O. Box 26427, San Jose, CA 95159-6427.
Comic Nerd/Cumulus
This 28-page flip mini, is an odd pairing. On the cute side, there's Liz Prince, my latest comics crush. Equal parts Ariel Schrag and Allison Cole, Prince does cute well. Her assumedly autobiographical comics approach caffeine, cats, cruelty, and cacophany well. Prince deftly depicts dedication and desperation to good effect. Flip now to Daniel Espeset's 12-page piece, "Cumulus." Couching his creation in heavily inked hyperbole, Espeset tracks the trials of a biplane that meets an ill end with a zeppelin. Shades of Gene Day, it's the lesser element here, but both pieces make me want to see more. $2 to Liz Prince.
The Comics Interpreter Vol. 2 #1
While TCI, Robert Young's creme de la creme comics fanzine for readers is most notable for his interviews, this 72-page edition opens with two solid review roundups. The first, an overview of Top Shelf's recent output, casts the publisher in a light deservedly reserved for its compatriots Alternative Comics and Highwater Books as Young by turns lauds Glenn Dakin's "Abe" (a book that Highwater could've and probably should've published) and lambastes Josuue Menjivar's "Cicada." This dichotomy of digestion indicates that Top Shelf's output, which at its best is indeed top shelf, is to be totally truthful, uneven. He then pairs the New X-Men with Top 10, an immediately clear comparison even though I feel -- fear -- that he gives Grant Morrison's X writing too much credit. Now, the interviews. In the first interview, a multi-part conversation between Chad Parenteau -- who seems to be a Boston local given his comments on Comicopia, the Beantown Zinetown, and the area arts community -- and Hans Rickheit, creator of the Xeric Award-winning (read: Peter Laird-bankrolled) book Chloe, Parenteau does little to build on the body of literature, such as it is, on Rickheit's work. The interview basically outlines Rickheit's experiences in the Xeric process and spends some time detailing Rickheit's role in the Cambridge-based Zeitgeist Gallery, whose influence on the local comics scene is, at best, inconsequential. That said, the insights offered on the role comics -- and Rickheit, whom I saw deliver the recent issue of Chrome Fetus to the Picnic just this past weekend -- played in the short-lived alternative-alternative newspapers the Cambridge Candle and the Cambridge Inferno are well put. These histories would not be told otherwise. Next up, Paul Pope, as interviewed by Robert Young. I've not liked -- which is different than disliked -- much of Pope's stuff until the recent book 100%, so read me as you will. This interview will make me read Pope's comics more closely. His comments on the definition of productivity, substenance via superheroes, value of inking and tight scripting, and artistic inspirations are worth this zine's cover price alone and then some. Thank you, Robert Young. After sharing some of the feedback offered in response to an email survey on the most interesting people in comics, which includes a wonderful two-word response from Brian Ralph, Young turns again to the reviews. In the end pages, Young points out lesser-known work by local Dan Moynihan (who now shares a studio with Jef Czekaj), Rick Smith (love that Shuck!), and the magazine Giant Robot, which was recently featured in the Nation. If you don't always read the Comics Journal, read the Comics Interpreter. Young is a true friend to comics. $4 to the Comics Interpreter.
Everyone Needs a Salesman
I''m not quite sure why this 24-page comic created by Jamie Tanner in 1998 just recently appeared at the Picnic, but I'm glad it did. Compiling five selections ranging in length from one to eight pages, Tanner's mini shares an ugly world populated by ugly people. Deformed people attend a reading. A salesman's vague, non-physical malaise isn't relieved at a retail establishment. A demon repairs televisions. And a prostitute dismembers an unfunny comedian. Tanner's dark narratives, one inspired by Haruki Murakami, remind me of Hand Rickheit, but for the most part, I'm slightly dissatisfied. Perhaps longer pieces would be more rewarding. $3 to Jamie Tanner, 50 Ocean Parkway #4G, Brooklyn, NY 11218.
Flummery
I have no idea how much I paid for this 84-page anthology edited by Jeff Sharp and Scott Mills. Collecting pieces created between 1996 and 2002, it's an alternating assortment of Mills' wispy comics and Sharp's rough cartoons. Lizards eat bugs. Astronauts battle planets. Clients tease barbers. Tanks race. A boy weeds. And a man ponders over mermaids' tears. Highlights include Todd Webb's contribution, "Work Ethic," Sharp's "Civil Servant" strips, and his "Clifton Nork" strips. Flummery appears to be a catch-all for unpublished work -- as well as an excuse to involve friends such as James Kochalka, who contributes a Magic Boy piece inked by Mills. Inquire about availability.
Lowjinx #4
A Noe-Fie Mono-Media and Top Shelf joint, this Kurt Wolfgang-edited 59-page production indicates why Tom Devlin should issue the next edition of Coober Skeber. These alt-comics anthologies are like glue, connecting the people who are producing the most important comics today and collecting them for readers who need to know who knows whom. This hand-colored edition of Lowjinx comprises childhood comics and drawings by folks such as Ivan Brunetti, Tony Consiglio, Greg Cook, Jordan Crane, Sam Henderson, Megan Kelso, James Kochalka, and Eric Reynolds. We all drew comics like this. I did, first inspired by Jules Feiffer's book. And it's fun to track the inspirations: Brunetti's Darger-meets-Disney panels, Cook's penchant for ninjas, Crane's long-lost Punisher obsession, Kelso's storybook conundrums, and Reynolds' text-driven romance with Marvel. Fun stuff, and well worth the shillings. $6 to Top Shelf.
Mortgage Your Soul: The Business Adventures of Don Hadley, American Entrepreneur
Commissioned by a Titans of Finance fan, this comic is an eight-page ashcan for a longer graphic novel in development by occasional Dean Haspiel collaborator Josh Neufeld -- and Peter Ross, whom I'm guessing commissioned the work. In the few pages offered here, the book-to-be outlines the experiences of Don Hadley, an actual entrepreneur. It's a tale of unwitting corruption, penny pinching, and tomato-field espionage. If it all comes together -- and is truly about one man's business experiences -- it'll be a doozy. That said, "1974 Barbados, W.I." makes me think that exposition can kill a comic. Josh, you've got to rein in this Ross guy. Without an editor, there's only so much you can do. Keyhole Comix, 175 Eastern Parkway #5C, Brooklyn, NY 11238.
Ninja
These are the kinds of comics I used to draw in grade school. Equal parts Metroid, Pitfall, and Shinobi, these strictly grid-oriented comics trace the adventures of a ninja. He runs, he jumps, he hits, he escapes. And that's the end of another mission. Sloppy, simple, and silly, these are amateurish, immature, but passionate comics. Sometimes passion is all you need. I'm not sure who drew these, but they're credited to Brian and were drawn between 1982-84 it seems. $4 from Lightning Bolt, P.O. Box 1361, Providence, RI 02901.
Paper Rodeo #12 (July 2002)
If the only comics in the world were produced by the people who publish the 24-page tabloid Paper Rodeo, the world would be a better place to comics. For that I need to thank the advertisers who help Paper Rodeo stay afloat: Armageddon Shoppe, Blue Dress, Corleone Records, Flo, AS220, the Decatur Lounge, Atlas Bower Books, Columbus Theatre, Bulb Records, Lightning Bolt, Acme Video, White Electric Coffee, Heresee, Flyrabbit, Dearraindrop, Troubleman Unlimited, Hudson Market, Myopic Books, Hospital Productions, Ragtime, and Red Car White Car. You people are amazing. As are the comics contained herein. (Apologies to anyone I missed.) $1 to P.O. Box 321, Providence, RI 02901.
Paping #3-5
Drawn and self-published by a Puerto Rican, punk-rock, public-school art teacher, this personal comic reminds me of the old Oatmeal minis. The drawing style has an abstract, angular approach, and the stories are solid. No. 3 features stories from John's experiences as a teacher, a yucca recipe, a loving tribute to the Vasquez family, and a political look at public murals. No. 4 is a redrawn collection of pieces that John lost just before printing. It considers teaching art in the Bronx, disagreements with a principal, the outcome of the mural on the handball wall, John's new job in Long Island, bocce, weddings, and friends. The art is more sloppy than in the previous issue, perhaps because John redrew it hastily, and this issue reminds me slightly of Tenth Frame. Lastly, No. 5. Enlisting several friends, John concentrates on life lessons, taking on a special education student, littering, and coming-of-age rituals. Involving friends added an impression of variety to this issue, and overall, Paping is extremely well worth reading. $2 to John Mejias, 60 St. Marks Pl. #4, New York, NY 10003.
Second
Brilliant! This wonderfully produced 52-page comic by Tom Gauld and Simone Lia includes several alternating storylines featuring recurring characters. In one series of selections, a kernel of corn (that has the most expressive gestures I've ever seen in corn) comments on the failings of society and culture. An explorer has to go home before reaching his destination. Two masked wrestlers kill time before a match. An ugly woman finds love. The overarching themes of the 21 pieces are unrequited love and falling short of a goal. The two artists have drastically different styles. One has a denser, almost Edward Gorey approach, and the other opts for a more immature Hamster Man effect. But the two interact well, and the inter-comic connections and call backs add an aspect of consistency and continuity. Wonderful stuff! $8 to Cabanon Press, the Drawing Room, Panther House, 38 Mount Pleasant, London, England WC1 XOAN.
Word to Word
A collaborative comics game played by Davey Oil and Leah Walsh, the basic gist of this is that one participant draws an object described by a word or phrase, each entry changing words but keeping part of the previous word -- such as "mud puddle" turning to "puddle jump." In this 28-page comic, it seems one participant may have contributed all of the 20 words and phrases, with the other depicting them. We start with "animal farm" and end with "animal farm," and a story about a skateboarder and a cranky is told along the way. My favorite panels include "house of cards" and "cardboard." Unfortunately, the comic doesn't include any contact information, but if you and your friends are into comics, you can easily make one of these yourself. A fun idea. $1 if you find it somewhere. Contact me if you know these folks, please.
Before I can tackle the accumulated zines and comics stacked in the milk crate on the floor by the big blue couch, I need to catch up on some unpublished reviews. Apologies to all involved, but these were penned back in July -- as well as this past Monday.
Bleep, Blop, Bloop: A Celebration of Silliness & Being Friends
Dedicated to Jim Henson, this well-printed 36-page mini by Paul Hornschemeier features two friends who engage in a gleeful dance of mutual appreciation. Hornschemeier's cartoony artwork reminds me of Roger Langridge a little, and the mini, termed an interlude, seems to be part of a larger work entitled Sequential. Gentle, loving, and silly, this mini is intriguing, if not entirely satisfying. $2.50 to IDGI Graphics, 2324 W. Walton #3F, Chicago, IL 60622.
Comic Book Heaven #7
The advertisement on the inside front cover indicates that next year will bring some new comics work by Scott Saavedra, editor of this glorious 36-page fanzine, and -- while welcome; I've missed Dr. Radium -- I hope that it doesn't edge in on Saavedra's comics journalism. More fannish than Alter Ego and more obscure than Scott Shaw's Oddball Comics columns online, each edition of CBH reminds me of why I started reading comics -- the sheer thrill of discovering some new piece of delightful comics ephemera. Whether plugging new self-published periodicals, name dropping the Mad Peck, or presaging Shaw's oddball selections, CBH also retells the tales told in outdated Gold Key, DC, and Charlton comics. Saavedra also analyzes the appearances of mermen in Wonder Woman comics and makes fun of hippies, digging through the back-issue bin of history so we don't have to. The fanzine for true comics fans, not readers or collectors. $2.25 to Slave Labor Graphics, P.O. Box 26427, San Jose, CA 95159-6427.
Comic Nerd/Cumulus
This 28-page flip mini, is an odd pairing. On the cute side, there's Liz Prince, my latest comics crush. Equal parts Ariel Schrag and Allison Cole, Prince does cute well. Her assumedly autobiographical comics approach caffeine, cats, cruelty, and cacophany well. Prince deftly depicts dedication and desperation to good effect. Flip now to Daniel Espeset's 12-page piece, "Cumulus." Couching his creation in heavily inked hyperbole, Espeset tracks the trials of a biplane that meets an ill end with a zeppelin. Shades of Gene Day, it's the lesser element here, but both pieces make me want to see more. $2 to Liz Prince.
The Comics Interpreter Vol. 2 #1
While TCI, Robert Young's creme de la creme comics fanzine for readers is most notable for his interviews, this 72-page edition opens with two solid review roundups. The first, an overview of Top Shelf's recent output, casts the publisher in a light deservedly reserved for its compatriots Alternative Comics and Highwater Books as Young by turns lauds Glenn Dakin's "Abe" (a book that Highwater could've and probably should've published) and lambastes Josuue Menjivar's "Cicada." This dichotomy of digestion indicates that Top Shelf's output, which at its best is indeed top shelf, is to be totally truthful, uneven. He then pairs the New X-Men with Top 10, an immediately clear comparison even though I feel -- fear -- that he gives Grant Morrison's X writing too much credit. Now, the interviews. In the first interview, a multi-part conversation between Chad Parenteau -- who seems to be a Boston local given his comments on Comicopia, the Beantown Zinetown, and the area arts community -- and Hans Rickheit, creator of the Xeric Award-winning (read: Peter Laird-bankrolled) book Chloe, Parenteau does little to build on the body of literature, such as it is, on Rickheit's work. The interview basically outlines Rickheit's experiences in the Xeric process and spends some time detailing Rickheit's role in the Cambridge-based Zeitgeist Gallery, whose influence on the local comics scene is, at best, inconsequential. That said, the insights offered on the role comics -- and Rickheit, whom I saw deliver the recent issue of Chrome Fetus to the Picnic just this past weekend -- played in the short-lived alternative-alternative newspapers the Cambridge Candle and the Cambridge Inferno are well put. These histories would not be told otherwise. Next up, Paul Pope, as interviewed by Robert Young. I've not liked -- which is different than disliked -- much of Pope's stuff until the recent book 100%, so read me as you will. This interview will make me read Pope's comics more closely. His comments on the definition of productivity, substenance via superheroes, value of inking and tight scripting, and artistic inspirations are worth this zine's cover price alone and then some. Thank you, Robert Young. After sharing some of the feedback offered in response to an email survey on the most interesting people in comics, which includes a wonderful two-word response from Brian Ralph, Young turns again to the reviews. In the end pages, Young points out lesser-known work by local Dan Moynihan (who now shares a studio with Jef Czekaj), Rick Smith (love that Shuck!), and the magazine Giant Robot, which was recently featured in the Nation. If you don't always read the Comics Journal, read the Comics Interpreter. Young is a true friend to comics. $4 to the Comics Interpreter.
Everyone Needs a Salesman
I''m not quite sure why this 24-page comic created by Jamie Tanner in 1998 just recently appeared at the Picnic, but I'm glad it did. Compiling five selections ranging in length from one to eight pages, Tanner's mini shares an ugly world populated by ugly people. Deformed people attend a reading. A salesman's vague, non-physical malaise isn't relieved at a retail establishment. A demon repairs televisions. And a prostitute dismembers an unfunny comedian. Tanner's dark narratives, one inspired by Haruki Murakami, remind me of Hand Rickheit, but for the most part, I'm slightly dissatisfied. Perhaps longer pieces would be more rewarding. $3 to Jamie Tanner, 50 Ocean Parkway #4G, Brooklyn, NY 11218.
Flummery
I have no idea how much I paid for this 84-page anthology edited by Jeff Sharp and Scott Mills. Collecting pieces created between 1996 and 2002, it's an alternating assortment of Mills' wispy comics and Sharp's rough cartoons. Lizards eat bugs. Astronauts battle planets. Clients tease barbers. Tanks race. A boy weeds. And a man ponders over mermaids' tears. Highlights include Todd Webb's contribution, "Work Ethic," Sharp's "Civil Servant" strips, and his "Clifton Nork" strips. Flummery appears to be a catch-all for unpublished work -- as well as an excuse to involve friends such as James Kochalka, who contributes a Magic Boy piece inked by Mills. Inquire about availability.
Lowjinx #4
A Noe-Fie Mono-Media and Top Shelf joint, this Kurt Wolfgang-edited 59-page production indicates why Tom Devlin should issue the next edition of Coober Skeber. These alt-comics anthologies are like glue, connecting the people who are producing the most important comics today and collecting them for readers who need to know who knows whom. This hand-colored edition of Lowjinx comprises childhood comics and drawings by folks such as Ivan Brunetti, Tony Consiglio, Greg Cook, Jordan Crane, Sam Henderson, Megan Kelso, James Kochalka, and Eric Reynolds. We all drew comics like this. I did, first inspired by Jules Feiffer's book. And it's fun to track the inspirations: Brunetti's Darger-meets-Disney panels, Cook's penchant for ninjas, Crane's long-lost Punisher obsession, Kelso's storybook conundrums, and Reynolds' text-driven romance with Marvel. Fun stuff, and well worth the shillings. $6 to Top Shelf.
Mortgage Your Soul: The Business Adventures of Don Hadley, American Entrepreneur
Commissioned by a Titans of Finance fan, this comic is an eight-page ashcan for a longer graphic novel in development by occasional Dean Haspiel collaborator Josh Neufeld -- and Peter Ross, whom I'm guessing commissioned the work. In the few pages offered here, the book-to-be outlines the experiences of Don Hadley, an actual entrepreneur. It's a tale of unwitting corruption, penny pinching, and tomato-field espionage. If it all comes together -- and is truly about one man's business experiences -- it'll be a doozy. That said, "1974 Barbados, W.I." makes me think that exposition can kill a comic. Josh, you've got to rein in this Ross guy. Without an editor, there's only so much you can do. Keyhole Comix, 175 Eastern Parkway #5C, Brooklyn, NY 11238.
Ninja
These are the kinds of comics I used to draw in grade school. Equal parts Metroid, Pitfall, and Shinobi, these strictly grid-oriented comics trace the adventures of a ninja. He runs, he jumps, he hits, he escapes. And that's the end of another mission. Sloppy, simple, and silly, these are amateurish, immature, but passionate comics. Sometimes passion is all you need. I'm not sure who drew these, but they're credited to Brian and were drawn between 1982-84 it seems. $4 from Lightning Bolt, P.O. Box 1361, Providence, RI 02901.
Paper Rodeo #12 (July 2002)
If the only comics in the world were produced by the people who publish the 24-page tabloid Paper Rodeo, the world would be a better place to comics. For that I need to thank the advertisers who help Paper Rodeo stay afloat: Armageddon Shoppe, Blue Dress, Corleone Records, Flo, AS220, the Decatur Lounge, Atlas Bower Books, Columbus Theatre, Bulb Records, Lightning Bolt, Acme Video, White Electric Coffee, Heresee, Flyrabbit, Dearraindrop, Troubleman Unlimited, Hudson Market, Myopic Books, Hospital Productions, Ragtime, and Red Car White Car. You people are amazing. As are the comics contained herein. (Apologies to anyone I missed.) $1 to P.O. Box 321, Providence, RI 02901.
Paping #3-5
Drawn and self-published by a Puerto Rican, punk-rock, public-school art teacher, this personal comic reminds me of the old Oatmeal minis. The drawing style has an abstract, angular approach, and the stories are solid. No. 3 features stories from John's experiences as a teacher, a yucca recipe, a loving tribute to the Vasquez family, and a political look at public murals. No. 4 is a redrawn collection of pieces that John lost just before printing. It considers teaching art in the Bronx, disagreements with a principal, the outcome of the mural on the handball wall, John's new job in Long Island, bocce, weddings, and friends. The art is more sloppy than in the previous issue, perhaps because John redrew it hastily, and this issue reminds me slightly of Tenth Frame. Lastly, No. 5. Enlisting several friends, John concentrates on life lessons, taking on a special education student, littering, and coming-of-age rituals. Involving friends added an impression of variety to this issue, and overall, Paping is extremely well worth reading. $2 to John Mejias, 60 St. Marks Pl. #4, New York, NY 10003.
Second
Brilliant! This wonderfully produced 52-page comic by Tom Gauld and Simone Lia includes several alternating storylines featuring recurring characters. In one series of selections, a kernel of corn (that has the most expressive gestures I've ever seen in corn) comments on the failings of society and culture. An explorer has to go home before reaching his destination. Two masked wrestlers kill time before a match. An ugly woman finds love. The overarching themes of the 21 pieces are unrequited love and falling short of a goal. The two artists have drastically different styles. One has a denser, almost Edward Gorey approach, and the other opts for a more immature Hamster Man effect. But the two interact well, and the inter-comic connections and call backs add an aspect of consistency and continuity. Wonderful stuff! $8 to Cabanon Press, the Drawing Room, Panther House, 38 Mount Pleasant, London, England WC1 XOAN.
Word to Word
A collaborative comics game played by Davey Oil and Leah Walsh, the basic gist of this is that one participant draws an object described by a word or phrase, each entry changing words but keeping part of the previous word -- such as "mud puddle" turning to "puddle jump." In this 28-page comic, it seems one participant may have contributed all of the 20 words and phrases, with the other depicting them. We start with "animal farm" and end with "animal farm," and a story about a skateboarder and a cranky is told along the way. My favorite panels include "house of cards" and "cardboard." Unfortunately, the comic doesn't include any contact information, but if you and your friends are into comics, you can easily make one of these yourself. A fun idea. $1 if you find it somewhere. Contact me if you know these folks, please.
From the Reading Pile XIV: Part 1
Before I can tackle the accumulated zines and comics stacked in the milk crate on the floor by the big blue couch, I need to catch up on some unpublished reviews. Apologies to all involved, but these were penned back in July -- as well as this past Monday.
Blush #1
Published by the folks behind Draculina, this 36-page glossy fanzine focuses on visual kei, an underground Japanese music combining elements of kabuki theater, goth, glam, metal, and thrash. Editor Cameron Scholes provides a home starters kit and indies shopping guide to the music and profiles a handful of leading bands, including Syndrome, Misery, Due'le Quartz, and Cynthia. Discographies and demo tape reviews round out the issue. While I've never listened to or seen visual kei, Schole's enthusiasm is infectious and the photographs of the performers offer an interesting look at the subculture's style. One of the better esoteric fanzines I've come across in awhile. $5.95 to Draculina Publishing, P.O. Box 587, Glen Carbon, IL 62034.
Florence of Arabia #1, 2
With two years between these two 24-page issues, Hob is developing an interesting story that reminds me slightly of Donna Barr's Desert Peach work. Narrated by a disembodied head, the comics detail the misadventures of a zen firefighting instructor mistakenly sent to diffuse hostilities in Arabia. The opening sequence in #1 is excellent, and Hob's sense of humor amplifies the impact of his artwork -- more detailed in these minis than in the Therapist. #2 is slightly funnier than the first edition, as Florence acquires a not very practical camel, distills water through a snail shell to survive in the desert, and receives a mysterious message at the end. Hob combines pratfall and philosophical musing in this comic that well deserves a larger format and much less time between installations. $1 to Hob, 93 Jewel St. #1R, Brooklyn, NY 11222.
Foul #7
For the video game player also interested in T&A and violence, Foul is a 48-page glossy fanzine that combines game reviews and tips and tricks with a healthy dose of irreverence. This issue includes an interview with Steve-O from Jackass, reviews of video games mostly for the PS2 and XBox, and a "hot chick centerfold." But folks really read Foul for its humor. Featuring National Lampoon-style letters from readers, a review of a fake game highlighting the Special Olympics, and fan art of several crossdressing game characters, Foul moves beyond gaming culture and into fandom. Not sure how useful this zine is to the hardcore gamer, but it sure is a funny read. $3.95 to Multimedia Empires, 12 Sain Marks #2F, New York, NY 10003.
Last Cry for Help
I am in awe. And I think that Souther Salazar and Dave K. Teenage are my two new favorite cartoonists. This 48-page collaborative collage comic combines found photos, typewritten text, comic art, and journaling to create a messy but methodical look at life. Similar to Souther's collaboration with Saelee, I can't always tell Souther and Dave K. apart, but the comic's result is one of controlled chaos and care. Themes addressed include love, desire, robots, solitude, cats, death, drinking, funny animals, skateboarding, cute girls, alienation, and city life. While the entire comic is excellent, several pieces stand out as extremely impressive: the smoker on p. 9, the street scene on p. 12, the cereal eater on p. 17, the bird panel on p. 19, p. 34, and p. 37. Shades of Allison Cole and Ron Rege, Jr., this comic makes me want to read more of these two. Beautifully presented. $2 to Souther Salazar, 106 N. Chester Ave., Pasadena, CA 91106 or Dave K. Teenage, 568 Grandview Ave., second floor, Ridgewood, NY 11385.
The Monster That Ate Stars
A little larger than a matchbook, this 48-page photocopied comic by Souther Salazar is a silly scribbled romp through what seem to be the fantasies of a young boy. He turns into a monster, goes crazy, eats almost everything imaginable, travels to outer space, evades people who try to stop his eating spree, and plays with monkeys. Though simply drawn, Salazar's art is studied and subtle, and the comic's content captures the rambling storytelling and imagination of children quite well. Pages 6, 10, 14, and 17 are especially impressive. An excellent microcomic. $1 to Souther Salazar, 106 N. Chester Ave., Pasadena, CA 91106.
National Waste #One
With a screenprinted color cover, this 36-page, self-published comic collects about 10 pieces written and drawn by L. Goldberg of the Paper Rodeo comics collective. "National Seashore" is a surprising Bambi-meets-Frogger look at how we affect the environment. "A Victory Garden Revisited" returns to the theme; a simple gardener acquires all the trappings of a successful life. "Mean Old World," the longest story at eight pages, also has an environmental edge as we witness Mr. President "spread the seed of your invincible nation into the heavenly abyss." The more simply drawn "Why Cats Paint" considers artistic inspiration, graffiti, and the law. Goldberg's art is by turns simple and scratchy, combining a plain humor with a frenetic line. This book is most notable for Goldberg's portrayal of authority figures (including God) and environmental caution. $4 from L. Goldberg, P.O. Box 321, Providence, RI 02901.
Paean
An excellent 52-page small-press comics anthology featuring work by Allison Cole, Matt Westervelt, Lindy Groening, Patrick Theaker, Maris Wicks, and others. Styles range from the starkly simple (Wicks) to a Gene Day-like sketch from (Cybele Collins and Joe Quinones), and there's also some photography and sculpture included. Groening's four-page piece "Sock Soup" is the best story in the bunch, and the innovative use of panel flow and poetry is amazing. It's also good to see that Theaker, editor of Paean, has also got it going on. "My Favorite River" is another standout, serving up a dark yet appreciative look at the LA River. Hooray for Providence's comics scene! $6 to Paean.
Peanut Butter & Jelly
Created shortly after Souther's monster comic, he collaborated with his friend Saelee to make this 32-page mini. It's a fun, friendly, and frantic assortment of sketches, one-pagers, and stories, but most of the pieces don't go very far. Their combination of comic art and typewritten lettering has good effect, and the four-page story featuring Qwerty shows how gentle and clever the two can be. Unfortunately, I can't really distinguish between the two consistently. Regardless, I quite liked this joint comic, and I think I'd like to see more work by both. Email Saelee or send $1.50 to Souther at 106 N. Chester Ave., Pasadena, CA 91106.
The Therapist #1
Hob's surreal 24-page comic was inspired by the Couples Communication Workshop at NYU Millhauser Laboratories and at times evokes the work of Tom Hart. The premise is simple -- a therapist cycles couples through a washing machine contraption that combines the partners into one person. But it doesn't always work properly, and one couple is recombined into three childlike entities who grapple with the therapist, eventually falling into the machine to produce two therapists. I'm not quite sure what Hob's message is, but the art is clean, the wordless comic clever, and the ending a surprise. $1 to Hob, 93 Jewel St. #1R, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Though I Slumber, My Heart Is Still Awake
Printed on resume-quality paper, this 32-page mini drawn by Sammy Harkham early this year tells the story of a woodsman punished by God. The character seems to age as the comic progresses and he befriends a bird, survives a lightning strike and flood, and washes up on a heavily wooded shore. The moral of the story is ambiguous, and the protagonist ends up performing an act worse than the one for which he was originally punished. Harkham's art is beautifully well-composed, and he has several strong moments, including pp. 12, 15, 21, and 28. An awesome introduction to a creator I'm not familiar with. $3 to Sammy Harkham, P.O. Box 2316, Beverly Hills, CA 90212-2316.
Before I can tackle the accumulated zines and comics stacked in the milk crate on the floor by the big blue couch, I need to catch up on some unpublished reviews. Apologies to all involved, but these were penned back in July -- as well as this past Monday.
Blush #1
Published by the folks behind Draculina, this 36-page glossy fanzine focuses on visual kei, an underground Japanese music combining elements of kabuki theater, goth, glam, metal, and thrash. Editor Cameron Scholes provides a home starters kit and indies shopping guide to the music and profiles a handful of leading bands, including Syndrome, Misery, Due'le Quartz, and Cynthia. Discographies and demo tape reviews round out the issue. While I've never listened to or seen visual kei, Schole's enthusiasm is infectious and the photographs of the performers offer an interesting look at the subculture's style. One of the better esoteric fanzines I've come across in awhile. $5.95 to Draculina Publishing, P.O. Box 587, Glen Carbon, IL 62034.
Florence of Arabia #1, 2
With two years between these two 24-page issues, Hob is developing an interesting story that reminds me slightly of Donna Barr's Desert Peach work. Narrated by a disembodied head, the comics detail the misadventures of a zen firefighting instructor mistakenly sent to diffuse hostilities in Arabia. The opening sequence in #1 is excellent, and Hob's sense of humor amplifies the impact of his artwork -- more detailed in these minis than in the Therapist. #2 is slightly funnier than the first edition, as Florence acquires a not very practical camel, distills water through a snail shell to survive in the desert, and receives a mysterious message at the end. Hob combines pratfall and philosophical musing in this comic that well deserves a larger format and much less time between installations. $1 to Hob, 93 Jewel St. #1R, Brooklyn, NY 11222.
Foul #7
For the video game player also interested in T&A and violence, Foul is a 48-page glossy fanzine that combines game reviews and tips and tricks with a healthy dose of irreverence. This issue includes an interview with Steve-O from Jackass, reviews of video games mostly for the PS2 and XBox, and a "hot chick centerfold." But folks really read Foul for its humor. Featuring National Lampoon-style letters from readers, a review of a fake game highlighting the Special Olympics, and fan art of several crossdressing game characters, Foul moves beyond gaming culture and into fandom. Not sure how useful this zine is to the hardcore gamer, but it sure is a funny read. $3.95 to Multimedia Empires, 12 Sain Marks #2F, New York, NY 10003.
Last Cry for Help
I am in awe. And I think that Souther Salazar and Dave K. Teenage are my two new favorite cartoonists. This 48-page collaborative collage comic combines found photos, typewritten text, comic art, and journaling to create a messy but methodical look at life. Similar to Souther's collaboration with Saelee, I can't always tell Souther and Dave K. apart, but the comic's result is one of controlled chaos and care. Themes addressed include love, desire, robots, solitude, cats, death, drinking, funny animals, skateboarding, cute girls, alienation, and city life. While the entire comic is excellent, several pieces stand out as extremely impressive: the smoker on p. 9, the street scene on p. 12, the cereal eater on p. 17, the bird panel on p. 19, p. 34, and p. 37. Shades of Allison Cole and Ron Rege, Jr., this comic makes me want to read more of these two. Beautifully presented. $2 to Souther Salazar, 106 N. Chester Ave., Pasadena, CA 91106 or Dave K. Teenage, 568 Grandview Ave., second floor, Ridgewood, NY 11385.
The Monster That Ate Stars
A little larger than a matchbook, this 48-page photocopied comic by Souther Salazar is a silly scribbled romp through what seem to be the fantasies of a young boy. He turns into a monster, goes crazy, eats almost everything imaginable, travels to outer space, evades people who try to stop his eating spree, and plays with monkeys. Though simply drawn, Salazar's art is studied and subtle, and the comic's content captures the rambling storytelling and imagination of children quite well. Pages 6, 10, 14, and 17 are especially impressive. An excellent microcomic. $1 to Souther Salazar, 106 N. Chester Ave., Pasadena, CA 91106.
National Waste #One
With a screenprinted color cover, this 36-page, self-published comic collects about 10 pieces written and drawn by L. Goldberg of the Paper Rodeo comics collective. "National Seashore" is a surprising Bambi-meets-Frogger look at how we affect the environment. "A Victory Garden Revisited" returns to the theme; a simple gardener acquires all the trappings of a successful life. "Mean Old World," the longest story at eight pages, also has an environmental edge as we witness Mr. President "spread the seed of your invincible nation into the heavenly abyss." The more simply drawn "Why Cats Paint" considers artistic inspiration, graffiti, and the law. Goldberg's art is by turns simple and scratchy, combining a plain humor with a frenetic line. This book is most notable for Goldberg's portrayal of authority figures (including God) and environmental caution. $4 from L. Goldberg, P.O. Box 321, Providence, RI 02901.
Paean
An excellent 52-page small-press comics anthology featuring work by Allison Cole, Matt Westervelt, Lindy Groening, Patrick Theaker, Maris Wicks, and others. Styles range from the starkly simple (Wicks) to a Gene Day-like sketch from (Cybele Collins and Joe Quinones), and there's also some photography and sculpture included. Groening's four-page piece "Sock Soup" is the best story in the bunch, and the innovative use of panel flow and poetry is amazing. It's also good to see that Theaker, editor of Paean, has also got it going on. "My Favorite River" is another standout, serving up a dark yet appreciative look at the LA River. Hooray for Providence's comics scene! $6 to Paean.
Peanut Butter & Jelly
Created shortly after Souther's monster comic, he collaborated with his friend Saelee to make this 32-page mini. It's a fun, friendly, and frantic assortment of sketches, one-pagers, and stories, but most of the pieces don't go very far. Their combination of comic art and typewritten lettering has good effect, and the four-page story featuring Qwerty shows how gentle and clever the two can be. Unfortunately, I can't really distinguish between the two consistently. Regardless, I quite liked this joint comic, and I think I'd like to see more work by both. Email Saelee or send $1.50 to Souther at 106 N. Chester Ave., Pasadena, CA 91106.
The Therapist #1
Hob's surreal 24-page comic was inspired by the Couples Communication Workshop at NYU Millhauser Laboratories and at times evokes the work of Tom Hart. The premise is simple -- a therapist cycles couples through a washing machine contraption that combines the partners into one person. But it doesn't always work properly, and one couple is recombined into three childlike entities who grapple with the therapist, eventually falling into the machine to produce two therapists. I'm not quite sure what Hob's message is, but the art is clean, the wordless comic clever, and the ending a surprise. $1 to Hob, 93 Jewel St. #1R, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Though I Slumber, My Heart Is Still Awake
Printed on resume-quality paper, this 32-page mini drawn by Sammy Harkham early this year tells the story of a woodsman punished by God. The character seems to age as the comic progresses and he befriends a bird, survives a lightning strike and flood, and washes up on a heavily wooded shore. The moral of the story is ambiguous, and the protagonist ends up performing an act worse than the one for which he was originally punished. Harkham's art is beautifully well-composed, and he has several strong moments, including pp. 12, 15, 21, and 28. An awesome introduction to a creator I'm not familiar with. $3 to Sammy Harkham, P.O. Box 2316, Beverly Hills, CA 90212-2316.
Magazine Me XXII
I know that it's Buy Nothing Day, but I subscribe to the notion that Buy Nothing Day is more oriented toward boycotting commercialized conspicuous consumption on the biggest shopping day of the year. I don't go to malls. I usually don't buy commercial, mainstream products. But I see no reason not to support independent, alternative activities on this day of days. I could wait until tomorrow, but why not show my support now? How I spend my money is a political statement, and I needed to make this statement today.
So I just signed up for a four-issue subscription to Kitchen Sink magazine, a new quarterly print and online publication produced by an arts collective in Oakland. The first issue, which is available now, includes articles about Erase Errata and New England's own James Kochalka. I find the Web site a little difficult to navigate and digest, but I look forward to seeing what the print product looks like.
I know that it's Buy Nothing Day, but I subscribe to the notion that Buy Nothing Day is more oriented toward boycotting commercialized conspicuous consumption on the biggest shopping day of the year. I don't go to malls. I usually don't buy commercial, mainstream products. But I see no reason not to support independent, alternative activities on this day of days. I could wait until tomorrow, but why not show my support now? How I spend my money is a political statement, and I needed to make this statement today.
So I just signed up for a four-issue subscription to Kitchen Sink magazine, a new quarterly print and online publication produced by an arts collective in Oakland. The first issue, which is available now, includes articles about Erase Errata and New England's own James Kochalka. I find the Web site a little difficult to navigate and digest, but I look forward to seeing what the print product looks like.
The Movie I Watched Last Night XLIV
Alice's Restaurant
I try to watch this movie every Thanksgiving. Set in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, and based on true events in Arlo Guthrie's life in 1967, the movie is a wonderful look at Guthrie's life, music, and setting. Positioning Guthrie as an oppressed activist musician -- his encounters with authority figures are extremely cartoony and occasionally quizzical in terms of just how it is that he's rebelling or being repressed -- who's extremely moral -- he, in several chaste steps, refuses the advances of a 14-year-old fan, an aging nightclub manager who just lent him $80, and Alice herself (although that's a scene slightly better handled). The movie highlights the importance of friends and family, the need for a creative community, the value of having a place of your own, and the dangers of being too tightly interdependent in such a place-based community. In many ways, Alice's Restaurant is a fitting epitaph to the '60s, complete with a meandering commentary on how movements wax and wane (delivered by the aging nightclub manager, perhaps played by Alice Brock herself?) and the film's ending, in which Arlo -- the new generation -- drives away in his VW van and Alice -- the preceding generation -- stands still and solitary on the steps of her church as nightfall comes. One of the only Thanksgiving movies I'm aware of, and well worth revisiting every year.
The Dark Crystal
Mike popped this in to show-off his widescreen HDTV. And it's a movie worth watching large, to be sure. Directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz, this is a darker take on the worlds presented in their Muppets and Fraggle Rock work, perhaps in part to capitalize on the opportunities presented by teenage fantasies such as the Never-Ending Story. Yet it is Brian Froud's work as conceptual designer that makes this movie important. Froud's early character and setting designs are terribly innovative -- offering several interesting, fantastic, and usually horrible creatures and environments. While the story is a pretty straight-forward heroic quest tale in which a young Gelfling has to heal the dark crystal with a shard before the conjunction of three suns, the takeaway of the movie is unclear. Other than the eye candy -- and delicious it is, visually -- what do children take away from this? There's little moral message, and the death of two rabbit-camel land striders goes unnoticed and unmourned even though they just helped Jen and Kira get to the Skekses' palace. Add to that a steady sexual undercurrent (draining people's essence, the phallic nature of the crystal itself, and Jen and Kira's arguably incestuous opportunity to save the gelfling race), and it's not a movie to ask questions about... just to watch and enjoy.
Alice's Restaurant
I try to watch this movie every Thanksgiving. Set in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, and based on true events in Arlo Guthrie's life in 1967, the movie is a wonderful look at Guthrie's life, music, and setting. Positioning Guthrie as an oppressed activist musician -- his encounters with authority figures are extremely cartoony and occasionally quizzical in terms of just how it is that he's rebelling or being repressed -- who's extremely moral -- he, in several chaste steps, refuses the advances of a 14-year-old fan, an aging nightclub manager who just lent him $80, and Alice herself (although that's a scene slightly better handled). The movie highlights the importance of friends and family, the need for a creative community, the value of having a place of your own, and the dangers of being too tightly interdependent in such a place-based community. In many ways, Alice's Restaurant is a fitting epitaph to the '60s, complete with a meandering commentary on how movements wax and wane (delivered by the aging nightclub manager, perhaps played by Alice Brock herself?) and the film's ending, in which Arlo -- the new generation -- drives away in his VW van and Alice -- the preceding generation -- stands still and solitary on the steps of her church as nightfall comes. One of the only Thanksgiving movies I'm aware of, and well worth revisiting every year.
The Dark Crystal
Mike popped this in to show-off his widescreen HDTV. And it's a movie worth watching large, to be sure. Directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz, this is a darker take on the worlds presented in their Muppets and Fraggle Rock work, perhaps in part to capitalize on the opportunities presented by teenage fantasies such as the Never-Ending Story. Yet it is Brian Froud's work as conceptual designer that makes this movie important. Froud's early character and setting designs are terribly innovative -- offering several interesting, fantastic, and usually horrible creatures and environments. While the story is a pretty straight-forward heroic quest tale in which a young Gelfling has to heal the dark crystal with a shard before the conjunction of three suns, the takeaway of the movie is unclear. Other than the eye candy -- and delicious it is, visually -- what do children take away from this? There's little moral message, and the death of two rabbit-camel land striders goes unnoticed and unmourned even though they just helped Jen and Kira get to the Skekses' palace. Add to that a steady sexual undercurrent (draining people's essence, the phallic nature of the crystal itself, and Jen and Kira's arguably incestuous opportunity to save the gelfling race), and it's not a movie to ask questions about... just to watch and enjoy.
The Restaurant I Ate at Last Night XVI
I've been cooking more at home and bringing lunch into work, per the goal mentioned in the Nov. 11 entry in this standing topic, but I haven't really continued the new restaurant exploration tour. Wednesday night, however, Hiromi and I went to Centro, a restaurant managed by the folks behind the Good Life on Central Square -- and located right next door. What an amazing dinner. The restaurant focuses on regional cooking from Italy, changing its menu every two months to concentrate on a new region. Right now, they're about three weeks into a menu drawn from cuisine in the Piedmont region, a relatively mountainous region in northern Italy -- and a region characterized by heavier ingredients. The bread and white bean spread with sundried tomatoes was awesome. But the parsnip chowder I had, which was prepared with pancetta and shrimp, wasn't overly impressive in its flavoring. Good, but not great. Then the chef surprised us with a gratis second course, gnocchi with a shaved squash garnish. The gnocchi was the best gnocchi I've ever, ever eaten. Handmade that morning, it practically melted in our mouths, and this is one dish that I'd highly recommend at Centro -- anything gnocchi. Continuing on, my entree was the sole, which was prepared well -- extremely light, flaky, and tender -- but confusingly. They wrapped the fish up into little spirals! I say confusing because I'm unsure whether it was wrapped like that when it was cooked -- or solely (pun not intended) for presentation. I forget what Hiromi had for her entree -- she started with a vegetable torte that looked awfully quiche-like -- but she had bread pudding for dessert. I, as I am usually wont to do in slightly more fancy restaurants, indulged in a glass of port. While the prices do run on the high side, if you're looking for a varied eating experience -- I'm sure to return to Centro in about two months' time to see what region they've moved onto -- and if you're a foodie who like a little education with your mastication, you can't beat Centro's wait staffs explanations of where the recipes come from, why the ingredients were selected, and how they'll prepare the dish for you. I've not learned more about what I was about to eat in a long time. Impressive. And quite satisfying.
I've been cooking more at home and bringing lunch into work, per the goal mentioned in the Nov. 11 entry in this standing topic, but I haven't really continued the new restaurant exploration tour. Wednesday night, however, Hiromi and I went to Centro, a restaurant managed by the folks behind the Good Life on Central Square -- and located right next door. What an amazing dinner. The restaurant focuses on regional cooking from Italy, changing its menu every two months to concentrate on a new region. Right now, they're about three weeks into a menu drawn from cuisine in the Piedmont region, a relatively mountainous region in northern Italy -- and a region characterized by heavier ingredients. The bread and white bean spread with sundried tomatoes was awesome. But the parsnip chowder I had, which was prepared with pancetta and shrimp, wasn't overly impressive in its flavoring. Good, but not great. Then the chef surprised us with a gratis second course, gnocchi with a shaved squash garnish. The gnocchi was the best gnocchi I've ever, ever eaten. Handmade that morning, it practically melted in our mouths, and this is one dish that I'd highly recommend at Centro -- anything gnocchi. Continuing on, my entree was the sole, which was prepared well -- extremely light, flaky, and tender -- but confusingly. They wrapped the fish up into little spirals! I say confusing because I'm unsure whether it was wrapped like that when it was cooked -- or solely (pun not intended) for presentation. I forget what Hiromi had for her entree -- she started with a vegetable torte that looked awfully quiche-like -- but she had bread pudding for dessert. I, as I am usually wont to do in slightly more fancy restaurants, indulged in a glass of port. While the prices do run on the high side, if you're looking for a varied eating experience -- I'm sure to return to Centro in about two months' time to see what region they've moved onto -- and if you're a foodie who like a little education with your mastication, you can't beat Centro's wait staffs explanations of where the recipes come from, why the ingredients were selected, and how they'll prepare the dish for you. I've not learned more about what I was about to eat in a long time. Impressive. And quite satisfying.
Things for Which I'm Thankful III
Last night, I shared time and table for Thanksgiving with Hiromi and some of her friends from swing dancing. Mike Hibarger of Five Guys Named Mike hosted, and there were five of us total. Mike used to play guitar in a self-described Stooges-like punk band called the Takers. He also used to run the local label Sonic Bubblegum. So conversation focused primarily on the local lindy-hop scene -- I was the only non-swing dancer in attendance -- and its parallels with the local indie-rock scene. I was fascinated. The national swing dancing scene is much more tightly knit than the national punk-rock scene, perhaps because of the various exchanges and camps, and I was impressed by how many people at Thanksgiving dinner had mutual friends from different parts of the country. I also learned a lot about various styles of swing dancing, their "purity" -- whether people learned from actual dancers from way back when or from Hollywood screen renditions of rougher forms of dance. All in all, a pleasant holiday -- and good eatin'! -- thanks to Mike and the Boston-area lindy hoppers for welcoming me into their home... and their subculture.
Last night, I shared time and table for Thanksgiving with Hiromi and some of her friends from swing dancing. Mike Hibarger of Five Guys Named Mike hosted, and there were five of us total. Mike used to play guitar in a self-described Stooges-like punk band called the Takers. He also used to run the local label Sonic Bubblegum. So conversation focused primarily on the local lindy-hop scene -- I was the only non-swing dancer in attendance -- and its parallels with the local indie-rock scene. I was fascinated. The national swing dancing scene is much more tightly knit than the national punk-rock scene, perhaps because of the various exchanges and camps, and I was impressed by how many people at Thanksgiving dinner had mutual friends from different parts of the country. I also learned a lot about various styles of swing dancing, their "purity" -- whether people learned from actual dancers from way back when or from Hollywood screen renditions of rougher forms of dance. All in all, a pleasant holiday -- and good eatin'! -- thanks to Mike and the Boston-area lindy hoppers for welcoming me into their home... and their subculture.
Wednesday, November 27, 2002
From the Reading Pile XIII
Before I can tackle the accumulated zines and comics stacked in the milk crate on the floor by the big blue couch, I need to catch up on some unpublished reviews. Apologies to all involved, but these were penned back in April.
Epoxy
John Pham's 52-page "mini-comics madness rip-off preview" delivers on the artistic tease he offers in Raina Lee's 1-Up zine, avoiding illustration work for fuller length comics. "Oceanus Versus the Venusian Crayfish" provides one of the pieces scheduled for Epoxy #3, and it's a doozy. The four-layer narrative combines the relationally tense participation in a Hue City talent show, an old man's story about an orchestrated zoo break, the reminiscence of an ended relationship, and a "band" rivalry. Pham's work still reminds me of an anime-inspired mix of Tom Devlin and Jordan Crane, leaning toward Crane and indicating that his influence looms large (someone give that boy a MacArthur!). Pham's use of repetition, inversion, and slow-motion cinematography is awe-inspiring, and there are several moments worth citing: p. 5's stop-motion scene setting, p. 16's understated youthinasia, p. 19's use of multiple planes of reference, and p. 38 in and of itself. Pham's a god, and it's necessary that I absorb more of his work. $3 to John Pham, P.O. Box 361135, Los Angeles, CA 90036.
O, Canada!
Printed in February 2002, this 28-page mini collects three stories detailing Allison's recent trip to Vancouver, BC, with her friend Asher. "Asshole" describes an encounter trying to sell minis to a clerk at Golden Age Book & Comic Emporium, showing the low ranking most comics retailers give to self-published comics (sometimes solely based on size) and the need for more centralized indie comics distributors. "Un-Canadian shares an incident experienced while crossing the street -- an incident that occurs regularly in the Boston area. And "But It Wasn't All Bad!" offers some nice framing for the trip, including a two-page spread of Vancouver's skyline, a view I saw last September and can appreciate. Despite Allison's sketchier line work in this edition, O, Canada! re-establishes her as one of the best minicomics makers in New England today. $3 to Allison Cole, 2 College St. #502, Prividence, RI 02903.
Paper Rodeo No. Infinity (May 2001)
Yes! Sander's right. Newsprint is hella cheap, and more people should pursue their tabloid-templated projects. The Paper Radio crew collates this 12-page edition of creative comics and grassroots regional advertising. This issue features work by Tim, a cover that riffs off a Chewbacca-like character, the T, and some Sentinel-like robots. Also: L. DeCurtis, whose chaotic multiple portraits capture elements of boredom, fashion, and frustration; Ben Jones, with some more unicorn and breakdancing bear imagery; and Mat Brinkman (I think) and his wonderfully linear process comics. The ads are as cool as the comics, bringing contributors' styles to spots for local indie hot spots such as AS220, Myopic Books, Other Music (RIP), and Million Year Picnic. More of this, please. I've had this issue way too long. Free from Paper Rad.
Proper Gander #32
They're not the same, but in Boston we have the Weekly Dig, and in San Marcos, not far from Austin, they have Proper Gander. While the Dig is an edgy tabloid affectionate for the area's electronica and free-jazz scenes, the Gander is a 10-page comics-laden tabloid heavy on art and fiction. Hans Rickheit's "Chrome Fetus Comics" bridges the gap, accompanying excellent comics work by Baltimore residents Mary Knott and Beppi, Andrew Goldfarb, and Tania Kauffman. The non-comics and -ad content features a good zine and comics review section and a handful of record reviews, as well as a profile of artist George Bedard and a fiction excerpt by Mark Wisniewski. Also included is a center spread of portraiture exhibited at the Go Coffee Shop -- images of a fellow named Furly. Slim and somewhat ad-packed, but still solid. Worth getting, and one of the better second-tier alt.papers I've seen in awhile. Free from Proper Gander, P.O. Box 434, San Marcos, TX 78667.
Ultra Laser #1
I've seen Asher Penn's comics before, and I think I might have mistakenly considered him part of the Paper Radio set. Regardless of his creative affiliation, this is an excellent mini similar to Allison Cole's work and sporting a screen-printer cover, contruction paper interiors, and the opening, "Hello there. My name is Asher. I am a Canadian art stud." Incorporating cute brute comics featuring a Stussy-clad bear, a Pikachu-like figure, and various indie-rock characters, the 36-page mini is primarily a sketchbook including comic art, song lyrics, and balloon lettering. While I'm intrigued by the Stussy fetish, I was particularly interested in the five pages of handwitten text. This writing expresses heartfelt appreciation and affection for a friend (perhaps Allison?), incorporating quotes from several teen movies -- perhaps movies Asher and Allison saw while in Vancouver: "Cruel Intentions," "Grosse Point Blank," and "10 Things I Hate About You." I'll need to keep up with Asher's work, and I'm thrilled to find a new set of creative companions in the area. $3 to Asher Penn.
Before I can tackle the accumulated zines and comics stacked in the milk crate on the floor by the big blue couch, I need to catch up on some unpublished reviews. Apologies to all involved, but these were penned back in April.
Epoxy
John Pham's 52-page "mini-comics madness rip-off preview" delivers on the artistic tease he offers in Raina Lee's 1-Up zine, avoiding illustration work for fuller length comics. "Oceanus Versus the Venusian Crayfish" provides one of the pieces scheduled for Epoxy #3, and it's a doozy. The four-layer narrative combines the relationally tense participation in a Hue City talent show, an old man's story about an orchestrated zoo break, the reminiscence of an ended relationship, and a "band" rivalry. Pham's work still reminds me of an anime-inspired mix of Tom Devlin and Jordan Crane, leaning toward Crane and indicating that his influence looms large (someone give that boy a MacArthur!). Pham's use of repetition, inversion, and slow-motion cinematography is awe-inspiring, and there are several moments worth citing: p. 5's stop-motion scene setting, p. 16's understated youthinasia, p. 19's use of multiple planes of reference, and p. 38 in and of itself. Pham's a god, and it's necessary that I absorb more of his work. $3 to John Pham, P.O. Box 361135, Los Angeles, CA 90036.
O, Canada!
Printed in February 2002, this 28-page mini collects three stories detailing Allison's recent trip to Vancouver, BC, with her friend Asher. "Asshole" describes an encounter trying to sell minis to a clerk at Golden Age Book & Comic Emporium, showing the low ranking most comics retailers give to self-published comics (sometimes solely based on size) and the need for more centralized indie comics distributors. "Un-Canadian shares an incident experienced while crossing the street -- an incident that occurs regularly in the Boston area. And "But It Wasn't All Bad!" offers some nice framing for the trip, including a two-page spread of Vancouver's skyline, a view I saw last September and can appreciate. Despite Allison's sketchier line work in this edition, O, Canada! re-establishes her as one of the best minicomics makers in New England today. $3 to Allison Cole, 2 College St. #502, Prividence, RI 02903.
Paper Rodeo No. Infinity (May 2001)
Yes! Sander's right. Newsprint is hella cheap, and more people should pursue their tabloid-templated projects. The Paper Radio crew collates this 12-page edition of creative comics and grassroots regional advertising. This issue features work by Tim, a cover that riffs off a Chewbacca-like character, the T, and some Sentinel-like robots. Also: L. DeCurtis, whose chaotic multiple portraits capture elements of boredom, fashion, and frustration; Ben Jones, with some more unicorn and breakdancing bear imagery; and Mat Brinkman (I think) and his wonderfully linear process comics. The ads are as cool as the comics, bringing contributors' styles to spots for local indie hot spots such as AS220, Myopic Books, Other Music (RIP), and Million Year Picnic. More of this, please. I've had this issue way too long. Free from Paper Rad.
Proper Gander #32
They're not the same, but in Boston we have the Weekly Dig, and in San Marcos, not far from Austin, they have Proper Gander. While the Dig is an edgy tabloid affectionate for the area's electronica and free-jazz scenes, the Gander is a 10-page comics-laden tabloid heavy on art and fiction. Hans Rickheit's "Chrome Fetus Comics" bridges the gap, accompanying excellent comics work by Baltimore residents Mary Knott and Beppi, Andrew Goldfarb, and Tania Kauffman. The non-comics and -ad content features a good zine and comics review section and a handful of record reviews, as well as a profile of artist George Bedard and a fiction excerpt by Mark Wisniewski. Also included is a center spread of portraiture exhibited at the Go Coffee Shop -- images of a fellow named Furly. Slim and somewhat ad-packed, but still solid. Worth getting, and one of the better second-tier alt.papers I've seen in awhile. Free from Proper Gander, P.O. Box 434, San Marcos, TX 78667.
Ultra Laser #1
I've seen Asher Penn's comics before, and I think I might have mistakenly considered him part of the Paper Radio set. Regardless of his creative affiliation, this is an excellent mini similar to Allison Cole's work and sporting a screen-printer cover, contruction paper interiors, and the opening, "Hello there. My name is Asher. I am a Canadian art stud." Incorporating cute brute comics featuring a Stussy-clad bear, a Pikachu-like figure, and various indie-rock characters, the 36-page mini is primarily a sketchbook including comic art, song lyrics, and balloon lettering. While I'm intrigued by the Stussy fetish, I was particularly interested in the five pages of handwitten text. This writing expresses heartfelt appreciation and affection for a friend (perhaps Allison?), incorporating quotes from several teen movies -- perhaps movies Asher and Allison saw while in Vancouver: "Cruel Intentions," "Grosse Point Blank," and "10 Things I Hate About You." I'll need to keep up with Asher's work, and I'm thrilled to find a new set of creative companions in the area. $3 to Asher Penn.
Employee of the Week
Every so often, the executives of Fifth Man Media, Media Diet's parent company, like to recognize an employee, or as in this case, employees who have made quality contributions to Fifth Man's corporate culture, business performance, or other aspects of our work. Media Diet would like to recognize the following Fifth Man Media employees for their service above and beyond the call of duty:
Pumping up the volume in the cafeteria
Sally Pickles, Paul Revere (no, not that Paul Revere; he's dead), and Leonard Polzin recently donated a new stereo sound system for employees to use in the Fifth Man Media cafeteria. While walking to lunch last week, Sally, Paul, and Leonard came across a van with its back doors wide open. The van was full, floor to ceiling, with stereo and other assorted electronics equipment. Between the three of them, Sally, Paul, and Leonard liberated -- and then donated -- a substantial sound system that will help Fifth Man employees "kick out the jams" during lunch and corporate gatherings. Thanks, guys! You know the true meaning of "Robbin' the 'hood."
Every so often, the executives of Fifth Man Media, Media Diet's parent company, like to recognize an employee, or as in this case, employees who have made quality contributions to Fifth Man's corporate culture, business performance, or other aspects of our work. Media Diet would like to recognize the following Fifth Man Media employees for their service above and beyond the call of duty:
Pumping up the volume in the cafeteria
Sally Pickles, Paul Revere (no, not that Paul Revere; he's dead), and Leonard Polzin recently donated a new stereo sound system for employees to use in the Fifth Man Media cafeteria. While walking to lunch last week, Sally, Paul, and Leonard came across a van with its back doors wide open. The van was full, floor to ceiling, with stereo and other assorted electronics equipment. Between the three of them, Sally, Paul, and Leonard liberated -- and then donated -- a substantial sound system that will help Fifth Man employees "kick out the jams" during lunch and corporate gatherings. Thanks, guys! You know the true meaning of "Robbin' the 'hood."
What Google Thinks of Me, According to Googlism
Inspired by one Claire Zulkey, I just plugged my name into Googlism to see what Google thinks of me. Here's what it had to say:
From the above, it seems that I spend too much time at work, have identity issues, am addicted to media, and charge high rents.
Try it; you'll like it.
Inspired by one Claire Zulkey, I just plugged my name into Googlism to see what Google thinks of me. Here's what it had to say:
heath row is a whore; clip art of a burrito; nonsequitor comics i am not a whore
heath row is shown as "hetherow"
heath row is a small hamlet a mile and a half east from longford
heath row is knocking on doors and sleeping on floors along north america's west coast to
heath row is my real name
heath row is participating in a web
heath row is senior social capitalist and worldwide co
heath row is the international co
heath row is to journey to cities like rochester and meet the local "cells" of what the magazine calls its company of friends
heath row is the brains behind somerville
heath row is back with another issue
heath row is soliciting material for future issues
heath row is a fancy gated community with expensive homes
From the above, it seems that I spend too much time at work, have identity issues, am addicted to media, and charge high rents.
Try it; you'll like it.
Music to My Ears XIX
Oh, this made me smile, a grin as wide as my face. Chewbacca sings "Silent Night." Perfect for the snow globe that is the world this morning!
Thanks to Cederholm.Org.
Oh, this made me smile, a grin as wide as my face. Chewbacca sings "Silent Night." Perfect for the snow globe that is the world this morning!
Thanks to Cederholm.Org.
Free to Be... Freelance?
A long-running class-action suit brought by several freelance writers and photographers against the Boston Globe has been resolved. Yesterday, a Suffolk superior court judge ruled in favor of the paper, saying that the Globe has the right to renegotiate its working relationships with freelancers -- and that if freelancers don't want to give up their online publishing rights, they have the right not to work for the paper. Seems that the Globe's concept of "renegotiation" includes very little negotiation and a whole lot of reneging.
Alternative Weaklies
Michael Ryan comments on the sad state of "alternative" journalism today, contending that the once underground, true alternatives to mainstream daily and weekly newspapers are now merely vehicles for advertising and entertainment listings. Hinging his remarks on the recent antitrust case against Village Voice Media and New Times Media, the two largest alt-weekly publishers, Ryan suggests that it is consolidation and corporatization that's ailing the alt-weeklies.
I would agree. While there are economies of scale for companies like Village Voice and New Times, following a cookie-cutter approach to alternatives loses the very local look and feel -- reportage and attitude -- that make alt-weeklies viable alternatives. Ryan reminisces about the old days of the Real Paper before it was purchased by the Boston Phoenix, which has grown into an "alternative" corporate media presence in its own right. I'd much rather see a proliferation of occasionally flawed papers such as the Weekly Dig than continuing centralization of what's deemed alternative media.
Michael Ryan comments on the sad state of "alternative" journalism today, contending that the once underground, true alternatives to mainstream daily and weekly newspapers are now merely vehicles for advertising and entertainment listings. Hinging his remarks on the recent antitrust case against Village Voice Media and New Times Media, the two largest alt-weekly publishers, Ryan suggests that it is consolidation and corporatization that's ailing the alt-weeklies.
I would agree. While there are economies of scale for companies like Village Voice and New Times, following a cookie-cutter approach to alternatives loses the very local look and feel -- reportage and attitude -- that make alt-weeklies viable alternatives. Ryan reminisces about the old days of the Real Paper before it was purchased by the Boston Phoenix, which has grown into an "alternative" corporate media presence in its own right. I'd much rather see a proliferation of occasionally flawed papers such as the Weekly Dig than continuing centralization of what's deemed alternative media.
Among the Literati XIX
JP Press, a specialist in quick fiction, is holding a holiday writing contest.
Roll up, writers! Stick to the man, the man they call Santa.
JP Press, a specialist in quick fiction, is holding a holiday writing contest.
Never got the toys you wanted from the fat man when you were a kid? Well here's your chance to try again. Enter JP Press' first annual Letter to Santa Quick Fiction Contest, and settle the score. Or sing his jolly praises in a brief narrative prose poem.
Premise: Write a 500-word story or prose poem in the form of a letter to Santa.
First Prize winner receives a one-year subscription annd publication on the JP Press web site. Honorable Mentions will also be printed online.
Guidelines: Please submit your 500-word story via an MS Word attachment. Of course, please include author's name and contact information. Submit by December 20.
Announcement of winner: December 24.
Roll up, writers! Stick to the man, the man they call Santa.
Comics and Popcorn
A recent email from Top Shelf included some good news. Not only is Doug TenNapel's Creature Tech the publisher's fastest selling book ever -- with 5,000 copies sold in three months -- but 20th Century Fox and Regency Enterprises have picked up the feature film rights to the book. The deal resulted from what is described as "a fierce bidding war" and is worth high-six against low-seven figures. The result will be a live-action "extravaganza." Top Shelf is so Hollywood! Eisner award winner TenNapel is the creator of Earthworm Jim, the Neverhood, and Gear, and he currently works as a creative producer on ABC's "Push, Nevada." He's also writing and directing a pilot for "Gear" at Nickelodeon. Fun stuff!
A recent email from Top Shelf included some good news. Not only is Doug TenNapel's Creature Tech the publisher's fastest selling book ever -- with 5,000 copies sold in three months -- but 20th Century Fox and Regency Enterprises have picked up the feature film rights to the book. The deal resulted from what is described as "a fierce bidding war" and is worth high-six against low-seven figures. The result will be a live-action "extravaganza." Top Shelf is so Hollywood! Eisner award winner TenNapel is the creator of Earthworm Jim, the Neverhood, and Gear, and he currently works as a creative producer on ABC's "Push, Nevada." He's also writing and directing a pilot for "Gear" at Nickelodeon. Fun stuff!
Event-O-Dex XVI
Sunday night at the Washington Street Art Center in Somerville, So&So, Choo Choo La Rouge, and the Operators.
The show starts at 8 p.m., and there will be slide and film projections throughout the performances. Hope to see some of you there! The Washington Street shows are pretty low key -- perfect for a holiday weekend!
Sunday night at the Washington Street Art Center in Somerville, So&So, Choo Choo La Rouge, and the Operators.
The show starts at 8 p.m., and there will be slide and film projections throughout the performances. Hope to see some of you there! The Washington Street shows are pretty low key -- perfect for a holiday weekend!
Weather Report VIII
First snow in the city! Relatively decent-sized flakes blowing horizontally past my office window, wind on the neck, and slush puddles to navigate in my LL Bean boots. I'm glad I'm not driving anywhere for Thanksgiving like my neighbor Carol.
First snow in the city! Relatively decent-sized flakes blowing horizontally past my office window, wind on the neck, and slush puddles to navigate in my LL Bean boots. I'm glad I'm not driving anywhere for Thanksgiving like my neighbor Carol.
Tuesday, November 26, 2002
Rock Shows of Note XLVI
Last night was a train wreck! I almost didn't go out, but around 10 p.m., in a fit of wanting to support the scene, I ventured out into the drizzle to head to Charlie's Kitchen to see several local pop bands: Shumai, Spoilsport, and the Tardy. I've already written copious amounts about Spoilsport and the Tardy, so I'll not so say much other than that the Tardy was a tad sloppy and Spoilsport rocked harder than they usually do. (I think it was in honor of my new short hair -- or Mookie quitting her banking job to become a carpenter.) There were much more interesting things happening at the show, and I don't really want to mention them. So there.
But Shumai was new to me. Shumai! A four-piece, they were quite impressive. Relatively solid power pop featuring a female lead singer and a male bassist who sang a couple of songs. They didn't do the boy-girl dual vocals thing much, and the songs the woman sang were usually more interesting than those that the man sang, and all in all, Shumai is well worth checking out. The MP3's on their Web site do them justice even if they sound a bit more twee on recording. I'll go see them again in a minute.
Actually, in a minute, I'm going to leave work and head for home. Lesson: If you're not sure you want to go out, and you finally decide to do so at 10 p.m., don't. It's probably not a good idea, especially if you haven't eaten dinner yet -- as good as Charlie's iceberg lettuce might be. You should probably stay home, continue to read and review comics. Because, then, you'd have published 20-plus comics and zine reviews instead of a photograph of a model. But that's the way the ball bounces, it seems.
Lesson No. 2: Everyone should go to the shows at Charlie's, even if it's raining. Last night was relatively sparsely attended -- perhaps because of the weather -- and if we want to keep the great rock shows coming upstairs at one of Cambridge's best hangouts, we need to keep the headcount up. Lecture over; I'm outie.
Last night was a train wreck! I almost didn't go out, but around 10 p.m., in a fit of wanting to support the scene, I ventured out into the drizzle to head to Charlie's Kitchen to see several local pop bands: Shumai, Spoilsport, and the Tardy. I've already written copious amounts about Spoilsport and the Tardy, so I'll not so say much other than that the Tardy was a tad sloppy and Spoilsport rocked harder than they usually do. (I think it was in honor of my new short hair -- or Mookie quitting her banking job to become a carpenter.) There were much more interesting things happening at the show, and I don't really want to mention them. So there.
But Shumai was new to me. Shumai! A four-piece, they were quite impressive. Relatively solid power pop featuring a female lead singer and a male bassist who sang a couple of songs. They didn't do the boy-girl dual vocals thing much, and the songs the woman sang were usually more interesting than those that the man sang, and all in all, Shumai is well worth checking out. The MP3's on their Web site do them justice even if they sound a bit more twee on recording. I'll go see them again in a minute.
Actually, in a minute, I'm going to leave work and head for home. Lesson: If you're not sure you want to go out, and you finally decide to do so at 10 p.m., don't. It's probably not a good idea, especially if you haven't eaten dinner yet -- as good as Charlie's iceberg lettuce might be. You should probably stay home, continue to read and review comics. Because, then, you'd have published 20-plus comics and zine reviews instead of a photograph of a model. But that's the way the ball bounces, it seems.
Lesson No. 2: Everyone should go to the shows at Charlie's, even if it's raining. Last night was relatively sparsely attended -- perhaps because of the weather -- and if we want to keep the great rock shows coming upstairs at one of Cambridge's best hangouts, we need to keep the headcount up. Lecture over; I'm outie.
PR-D-R-R II
I just got the following "news" release via email, and I can't help myself. Here goes:
Now, don't get me wrong. I'm all for beautiful young women promoting products and services, especially beautiful young women well-versed in motor sports, but I'm curious how this is innovative. From the pages of Easyrider to the boothless babes at most car shows, it seems that there's already a connection between women and wheels. I know I work for a magazine called Fast Company, but this might be better received -- and actually covered -- by the folks at Popular Hot Rodding. Or, yeah! The folks I just met at Raceway Media Magazine.
I just got the following "news" release via email, and I can't help myself. Here goes:
Unique modeling firm to cater exclusively to Auto Racing, Motorcycle industries.
Infineon Raceway, CA - (November 25, 2002) - Strap on your race gear! Start your engines! Head out to a venue ASAP!
Armed with hot pants and sun shades, the UmbrellaGirls are coming to raceways across America - and they want to meet you.
The latest innovation in a sport that attracts more fans per event than any other in America, UmbrellaGirls USA is a group of dynamic, beautiful young women promoting goods and services exclusively to the auto and motorcycle racing industries.
"The idea was to cull a roster of some of the most lovely, interesting women in America, and put them to work representing the many companies that vie for advertising space at the raceway," says Ann Asiano, President and Founder of UmbrellaGirls USA. "In Italy, where motorcycle and auto racing is highly revered, upscale event models are a huge part of the race fan experience - in the United States that niche really hasn't been filled as yet. But because there's such a plethora of companies that are interested in getting involved with the racing industry, our UmbrellaGirls offer a great way for a wide array of organizations to get their names out at the raceway via a very appealing medium."
Nice chassis!
Through UmbrellaGirls USA, Asiano plans to promote divergent client types ranging from motor oil companies to retail and clothing firms. Umbrella Girls wear apparel bearing client logos and tote eye catching signature sun umbrellas while meeting and greeting fans, race contestants, and raceway VIP's.
"While they are very attractive, UmbrellaGirls are more than eye-candy at the raceway," says Asiano. "They have an advanced knowledge of racing and truly understand the products and services they are promoting. Some UmbrellaGirls, such as Natalie Jackson, compete in their own right and have been involved in motor sports for years. And since motor sports have such an international appeal, we make it a priority to recruit UmbrellaGirls who are bilingual so they can assist and make welcome the many European, Asian and Hispanic contestants and fans that compete and watch races in the USA."
While scheduled to formally launch in November at the International Motorcycle Show held at the San Mateo Expo Center, UmbrellaGirls have appeared on a limited basis at Infineon and Pomona Raceways, and will continue to preview services at raceways throughout the West Coast in coming weeks.
To learn more about Umbrella Girls USA, visit their website.
Now, don't get me wrong. I'm all for beautiful young women promoting products and services, especially beautiful young women well-versed in motor sports, but I'm curious how this is innovative. From the pages of Easyrider to the boothless babes at most car shows, it seems that there's already a connection between women and wheels. I know I work for a magazine called Fast Company, but this might be better received -- and actually covered -- by the folks at Popular Hot Rodding. Or, yeah! The folks I just met at Raceway Media Magazine.
Shelf-Publishing III
Remember that book I'm working on? We're still working out the reprint permissions, and I might need to gather some more stories and articles, but Off Message is still in progress. I've got folks lined up to do the promo blurbs on the back cover, and the author of the foreward is super, super cool. Should be a rad book.
That's not final, but it just might be the cover. What do you think?
Remember that book I'm working on? We're still working out the reprint permissions, and I might need to gather some more stories and articles, but Off Message is still in progress. I've got folks lined up to do the promo blurbs on the back cover, and the author of the foreward is super, super cool. Should be a rad book.
That's not final, but it just might be the cover. What do you think?
Things for Which I'm Thankful II
Sunshine in the morning
Slow days at the office
Ex-girlfriends who still talk to me
Charlie's Kitchen
Bittersweet chocolate
People who make their own books, zines, comics, and records
Water, preferably cold
Monday, November 25, 2002
From the Reading Pile XII
Before I can tackle the accumulated zines and comics stacked in the milk crate on the floor by the big blue couch, I need to catch up on some unpublished reviews. Apologies to all involved, but these were penned back in March.
Get Bent! #9
Interesting! A year between issues of Get Bent! (this edition came out in spring 2002) in order to concentrate on Unshaven Chi, and still Ben delivers an uneven effort. I wish he'd written a better introduction to "A Fay Zone Leah" instead of describing the premise afterward, because the story, characterization, and phonetic speech don't carry the impact they might otherwise. "The Waterhead Man" is a much better and more explicit treatment of the subject, working in some solid Family Circus references (and Little Nemo, he says) as he explores his reactions to this person who so affected his life and memory. Ben was a 2001 Ignatz nominee, but because the 2001 SPX was canceled, we might never know how great he really is. Just kidding; he's great, although this 28-page comic isn't quite what he could've been. $3 to Ben T. Steckler, P.O. Box 7273, York, PA 17404.
My Life in Family Vacations
This more than matchbook-sized photocopied mini recounts several family vacations taken by Kim Paglia. Her family goes to DC in a mail truck; wear waterproof clothing at Niagara Falls (I did this!); camp in Pittsburgh; abandon several trips to Herhey, Pennsylvania; and eventually go to Georgia instead. This 36-page mini-mini is excellent in its scaled-back presentation, and the holiday travel stories border on the universal. Dude: 50 cents. Get this. I'd like to see some bigger and longer work from Paglia. Kimberly Paglia, 1935 Highway 106 North, Danielsville, GA 30633.
Pussycat
Feh. A well-printed eight-page comic -- screen printing on heavy stock -- but a disappointing premise. Why detourn old romance comics to babble on about pornography? The detourned art has promise, but the writing and lettering falls flat, as does the content of the copy. Shat Platz and Beau Buck.
Typewriter #4
Bound as an old book complete with cloth covers, this wonderfully produced 64-page edition of David Youngblood's comics anthology is dedicated to "old books" everywhere. Featuring nine pieces, the collection features Chris Wright's Tom Hart-like anthropomorphic untitled piece, Jonathan T. Russell's Jessica Abel-inspired drama comic about shopping and self-esteem, Michael Hall's prose-driven space opera, and Youngblood's own surprising blend of Megan Kelso and Greg Cook (love the tree on p. 40, as well as the cloud on p. 45). Youngblood's piece runs eight pages too long -- editor, edit thyself -- but otherwise, this is an awesome assortment of almost unknowns. $5 to David Youngblood.
Unshaven Chi #4
The complement to Ben's fictional Get Bent!, this is "pure autobio." Despite the similar cover stock and screen printing, Ben pays less attention to the artwork, opting for a Dennis Eichler-meets-Big Boy style that's not as solid as his work in Get Bent! Regardless, in this 32-page comic from fall 2001, Ben tracks his genealogy, discusses the value of buying from friends on account, appreciates his grandmother, fondly recalls Joey Ramone, worries about melanoma, and reprints some old -- three years old -- comics. My concerns about the art aside, I find this to be a slightly stronger effort, more ably capturing Ben's life and loves than Get Bent!, which seems more self-aware and -apologetic. $2 to Ben T. Steckler, P.O. Box 7273, York, PA 17404.
As always, materials for possible review in Media Diet are welcome. My mailing address is on the left.
Before I can tackle the accumulated zines and comics stacked in the milk crate on the floor by the big blue couch, I need to catch up on some unpublished reviews. Apologies to all involved, but these were penned back in March.
Get Bent! #9
Interesting! A year between issues of Get Bent! (this edition came out in spring 2002) in order to concentrate on Unshaven Chi, and still Ben delivers an uneven effort. I wish he'd written a better introduction to "A Fay Zone Leah" instead of describing the premise afterward, because the story, characterization, and phonetic speech don't carry the impact they might otherwise. "The Waterhead Man" is a much better and more explicit treatment of the subject, working in some solid Family Circus references (and Little Nemo, he says) as he explores his reactions to this person who so affected his life and memory. Ben was a 2001 Ignatz nominee, but because the 2001 SPX was canceled, we might never know how great he really is. Just kidding; he's great, although this 28-page comic isn't quite what he could've been. $3 to Ben T. Steckler, P.O. Box 7273, York, PA 17404.
My Life in Family Vacations
This more than matchbook-sized photocopied mini recounts several family vacations taken by Kim Paglia. Her family goes to DC in a mail truck; wear waterproof clothing at Niagara Falls (I did this!); camp in Pittsburgh; abandon several trips to Herhey, Pennsylvania; and eventually go to Georgia instead. This 36-page mini-mini is excellent in its scaled-back presentation, and the holiday travel stories border on the universal. Dude: 50 cents. Get this. I'd like to see some bigger and longer work from Paglia. Kimberly Paglia, 1935 Highway 106 North, Danielsville, GA 30633.
Pussycat
Feh. A well-printed eight-page comic -- screen printing on heavy stock -- but a disappointing premise. Why detourn old romance comics to babble on about pornography? The detourned art has promise, but the writing and lettering falls flat, as does the content of the copy. Shat Platz and Beau Buck.
Typewriter #4
Bound as an old book complete with cloth covers, this wonderfully produced 64-page edition of David Youngblood's comics anthology is dedicated to "old books" everywhere. Featuring nine pieces, the collection features Chris Wright's Tom Hart-like anthropomorphic untitled piece, Jonathan T. Russell's Jessica Abel-inspired drama comic about shopping and self-esteem, Michael Hall's prose-driven space opera, and Youngblood's own surprising blend of Megan Kelso and Greg Cook (love the tree on p. 40, as well as the cloud on p. 45). Youngblood's piece runs eight pages too long -- editor, edit thyself -- but otherwise, this is an awesome assortment of almost unknowns. $5 to David Youngblood.
Unshaven Chi #4
The complement to Ben's fictional Get Bent!, this is "pure autobio." Despite the similar cover stock and screen printing, Ben pays less attention to the artwork, opting for a Dennis Eichler-meets-Big Boy style that's not as solid as his work in Get Bent! Regardless, in this 32-page comic from fall 2001, Ben tracks his genealogy, discusses the value of buying from friends on account, appreciates his grandmother, fondly recalls Joey Ramone, worries about melanoma, and reprints some old -- three years old -- comics. My concerns about the art aside, I find this to be a slightly stronger effort, more ably capturing Ben's life and loves than Get Bent!, which seems more self-aware and -apologetic. $2 to Ben T. Steckler, P.O. Box 7273, York, PA 17404.
As always, materials for possible review in Media Diet are welcome. My mailing address is on the left.
Things for Which I'm Thankful
It is Thanksgiving week. Thursday is Thanksgiving. This year, Thanksgiving falls on the 131st anniversary of the execution of three leaders of the Paris commune (Rossell, Ferre, and Bourgeois, if you must know), and my thoughts now turn from France to friends. Throughout the week I'll continue to post notices of some of the people, places, and things for which I'm thankful. This is where it starts:
Fast Company for giving me a place to spend my days. I'm pretty lucky to have the job I have.
Evan Williams of Blogger for his ongoing assistance and support with Media Diet. The man doesn't really need to respond to my customer service and support queries in a timely fashion -- especially when we don't communicate much otherwise -- but he does. And that's rad.
Jon Ferguson and the other folks behind and inside Cardhouse for helping make Media Diet real.
Media Dieticians everywhere. You know who you are.
My mom, dad, sister, and grandmother.
The Anchormen for their patience and provision of a carthartic creative outlet I wouldn't have otherwise.
"Special" female friends who have much more patience, persistence, and presence in my life than I deserve.
That's seven. And that's lucky. More thoughts of thanks as I think them!
It is Thanksgiving week. Thursday is Thanksgiving. This year, Thanksgiving falls on the 131st anniversary of the execution of three leaders of the Paris commune (Rossell, Ferre, and Bourgeois, if you must know), and my thoughts now turn from France to friends. Throughout the week I'll continue to post notices of some of the people, places, and things for which I'm thankful. This is where it starts:
That's seven. And that's lucky. More thoughts of thanks as I think them!
Corollary: Event-O-Dex XII
It was not the High-Steppin' Nickel Kids that I saw at the Milky Way in JP wearing jackets emblazoned with the band's name like they're in some of gang or something, I don't believe. It was, if memory serves, which it often doesn't, skipping school like some silly truant, the Lost City Angels. But who the heck knows.
It was not the High-Steppin' Nickel Kids that I saw at the Milky Way in JP wearing jackets emblazoned with the band's name like they're in some of gang or something, I don't believe. It was, if memory serves, which it often doesn't, skipping school like some silly truant, the Lost City Angels. But who the heck knows.
From the In Box: Anchormen, Aweigh! IX
Wow, Zombies of the Stratosphere is the first compilation the Anchormen have ever been on? Cool! We really thought about your suggestions; now you can order Zombies via email. -- Dan and Deke Logan
Wow, Zombies of the Stratosphere is the first compilation the Anchormen have ever been on? Cool! We really thought about your suggestions; now you can order Zombies via email. -- Dan and Deke Logan
Hardcore Logo III
We have a winner! Or at least, an applicant. Joe Szilagyi has contributed the shiny, happy new Media Diet logo you now see at the top of this very page. This doesn't mean that I no longer want people to design logos for Media Diet. The idea is that I'll have several that cycle through periodically. Submissions are still welcome.
We have a winner! Or at least, an applicant. Joe Szilagyi has contributed the shiny, happy new Media Diet logo you now see at the top of this very page. This doesn't mean that I no longer want people to design logos for Media Diet. The idea is that I'll have several that cycle through periodically. Submissions are still welcome.
Age-Related Angst
Some recent comments Matt made in Retro Rocket got my wheels spinning:
Having had a bit of a mid-midlife crisis earlier this year, similar thoughts have loomed large in my life of late. Nearing the big 3-0, I realized that I was no longer the surprisingly young man who'd done -- and was doing -- a surprising amount of surprisingly interesting and arguably important stuff. It was now an assumption that I'd be doing stuff similar to what I'm doing. Or at least doing something. Oh, I was no protege, don't get me wrong, but I missed having the age cachet in my, how you say, bag of tricks.
Every so often, I like to think that I'm past that -- and that even though there are notable holes in my life... holes people much younger than me have already filled... I'm still in a pretty good place for 29. I'm far from adult. I'm far from settled. But at least I'm not a Yale law graduate or general manager of a baseball team. And my age still surprises some people. Perhaps I'll miss getting carded when people stop carding me.
Because that seems to start happening again every time I shave my head.
Some recent comments Matt made in Retro Rocket got my wheels spinning:
when i was a bit younger, and before i settled upon the law as a career, i used to get mildly bummed out about the direction my life had taken when seeing much younger guys playing professional baseball and football and so on. what must it be like to have such motivation, such talent, such a paycheck, i thought. i got over those feelings a while ago, right around the same time i realized i was too old to be a 'real world' cast member.
now comes the hiring of the boston red sox new twenty-eight year old general manager. are you kidding me? twenty-eight and running a baseball team? and yale law grad, no less. shoot me now.
Having had a bit of a mid-midlife crisis earlier this year, similar thoughts have loomed large in my life of late. Nearing the big 3-0, I realized that I was no longer the surprisingly young man who'd done -- and was doing -- a surprising amount of surprisingly interesting and arguably important stuff. It was now an assumption that I'd be doing stuff similar to what I'm doing. Or at least doing something. Oh, I was no protege, don't get me wrong, but I missed having the age cachet in my, how you say, bag of tricks.
Every so often, I like to think that I'm past that -- and that even though there are notable holes in my life... holes people much younger than me have already filled... I'm still in a pretty good place for 29. I'm far from adult. I'm far from settled. But at least I'm not a Yale law graduate or general manager of a baseball team. And my age still surprises some people. Perhaps I'll miss getting carded when people stop carding me.
Because that seems to start happening again every time I shave my head.
It's an Ad, Ad, Ad, Ad World XVII
In Sacramento, California, two billboards will be outfited to change the image they display based on the radio stations tuned into by drivers of passing cars.
Thanks to Just One Thing.
In Sacramento, California, two billboards will be outfited to change the image they display based on the radio stations tuned into by drivers of passing cars.
Thanks to Just One Thing.
From the In Box: Pulling the Plug VIII
More on Mama Gaia's:
Thanks to Media Dietician George Mokray.
More on Mama Gaia's:
It is with gratitude and a profound sense of humility that I write this response to your emails of support. Since the suspension of operations at Mama Gaia's Cafe, we have become the subject of a powerful show of support from customers, friends, and families. Said support has been manifested in offers of financial contributions big and small, offers to organize fundraising events, and even campaigns of support-letter writing. Unmistakably, such tremendous show of support has taken the management team by surprise. It has been humbling and refreshing to feel and see a community asking us to remain in business and continue our mission of community building and social justice. We felt very much alone and overwhelmed by the developments, the motives behind them, and the unnecessary use of pressure imposed upon us; however, to see members of the Cambridge community, ranging from students to business owners and even homeless people, expressing their sympathy and support is at least unusual and, at best, a sign of hope in times of hopelessness and a clear indication that, even under very difficult circumstances, most of them financial, we have done something right and there are a lot of community members that do recognize and appreciate all the hard work and passion invested in the vision and mission of Mama Gaia's Cafe.
I would like to take this opportunity to brief you on the current status of the negotiations to reopen Mama Gaia's. I am happy to report that your support has allowed us to reopen between Thursday or Friday of this week. However the financial damage of the suspension of sales is expected to have repercussions as we approach the slow business cycle of the Christmas break. Therefore, we find ourselves in need to continue our fundraising efforts to ensure that we won't be closed again. To that end, and in honoring the Spirit in which help has been offered, we will work with many of you to organize fundraising events; we will ask the support of the hundreds of talented musicians, artists and performers, as well as the intellectual, activist, media, and student communities that make up the bulk of Mama Gaia's customer and support base, to join us and show their commitment by participating in activities to fundraise and by increasing their visits as customers of the Cafe.
I have asked Martin Hunter to serve as liaison for all of you who would like to be updated as to our status. In addition, if you wish to circulate updates about Mama Gaia's Cafe situation or send out calls for help to various listserves, we ask you to please coordinate your efforts with Martin in order to avoid duplication of efforts. In turn, all special cases and/or people wishing to help in organizing or performing will be channeled by Martin to Rafael Medina. Rafael will serve as coordinator for special projects. His duties will include to organize the flow of the events, to bring together volunteers with coordinators and to oversee that the outreach is well done so as to maximize the result from all these efforts. Performers, organizers, and idea people should contact Martin requesting to be directed over to Rafael. This way they will continue to be in the main stream of communication while serving on a special projects team.
A bank account has been prepared for those of you who want to help financially. All contributions will have the option to be turned into stock in the equity of the company in the near future, or just be treated as a loan with terms to be determined on an individual basis. Proper documentation will be provided upon receipt of contribution and will be personally guaranteed by me. More information is available to better inform your financial decision. Please contact us to make arrangements. Juan Carlos Kaiten will serve as administrator for the funds and will be in charge of proper documentation of entries and proper communication to those with financial links to us. For all financial questions and contributions please write.
Finally, I would like to pledge with renewed breath and depth my commitment to the principles of community, solidarity, social justice, peace, equality, nature, diversity, and spirituality that make up the fiber of the Mama Gaia's experience. Rest assured that Mama Gaia's will continue to be not only a part but a reflection of this community, which has now grown and expanded to all of you. All our past, and now our current, efforts represent the heart and soul of all of us who still believe in our birthright to live in a better place based on dignity and respect, on true love and commitment to our community and those who will one day continue this age-long struggle for freedom and justice. We will not give in, we will stand out for what is right, it is the only way we can breathe. We can't and will not have any other way.
Thank you sincerely for your support. -- Pedro Noe Morales, founder, Mama Gaia's Cafe
Thanks to Media Dietician George Mokray.
Blogging About Blogging XXXIV
Being featured on Slashdot or Metafilter can send your traffic through the roof. As can being featured prominently in Blogdex.
Around 7 p.m. last night, one Joe Szilagyi in Connecticut noticed that his site had basically "taken over" the second page of Blogdex. It seems that if you combine several domain names tracked by Blogdex -- parking them all in a new domain -- you can accidentally break Blogdex.
Cameron has yet to tweak the system, but needless to say, Mr. Sizzle might need to put in a whole new roof.
Being featured on Slashdot or Metafilter can send your traffic through the roof. As can being featured prominently in Blogdex.
Around 7 p.m. last night, one Joe Szilagyi in Connecticut noticed that his site had basically "taken over" the second page of Blogdex. It seems that if you combine several domain names tracked by Blogdex -- parking them all in a new domain -- you can accidentally break Blogdex.
Cameron has yet to tweak the system, but needless to say, Mr. Sizzle might need to put in a whole new roof.
Rules for Fools XIV
Rule No. 17: If you get on an elevator that is going up and you are, in fact, wanting to go down, you must either first go up before you can go down -- or get off the elevator and wait for another.
Corollary to Rule No. 17: They'll make more.
Rule No. 18: When you ask people also getting on the elevator to hit your floor button for you ("Three, please."), chances are good that they'll hit their floor button first even if yours comes sooner.
Corollary to Rule No. 18: You do the same, so what's your gripe?
Rule No. 17: If you get on an elevator that is going up and you are, in fact, wanting to go down, you must either first go up before you can go down -- or get off the elevator and wait for another.
Corollary to Rule No. 17: They'll make more.
Rule No. 18: When you ask people also getting on the elevator to hit your floor button for you ("Three, please."), chances are good that they'll hit their floor button first even if yours comes sooner.
Corollary to Rule No. 18: You do the same, so what's your gripe?
Digesting the Daily IV
Recent editions of the Daily Northwestern, the student newspaper of my alma mater, featured several media-, technology-, and activism-related items that might be of interest to Media Dieticians.
Caught in the banter of the Brothers Savage
One Savage advises about sex. The other Savage advises about school.
(Nov. 14, 2002)
Name snafu causes much strife among NU students
Letter writer Dan Abramson sets the record straight on the other Dan Abramson, who draws cartoons for the Daily. The gist of it is that letter-writer Abramson does not draw the cartoons, so stop bothering him
(Nov. 15, 2002)
Recent editions of the Daily Northwestern, the student newspaper of my alma mater, featured several media-, technology-, and activism-related items that might be of interest to Media Dieticians.
Caught in the banter of the Brothers Savage
One Savage advises about sex. The other Savage advises about school.
(Nov. 14, 2002)
Name snafu causes much strife among NU students
Letter writer Dan Abramson sets the record straight on the other Dan Abramson, who draws cartoons for the Daily. The gist of it is that letter-writer Abramson does not draw the cartoons, so stop bothering him
(Nov. 15, 2002)
Among the Literati XVIII
In another creative coup, McSweeney's books is issuing a joint book/CD compiled by Nick Hornby. Songbook will include essays penned by Hornby about some of his favorite songs and songwriters, and the CD will comprise many of the songs mentioned in the book.
To add to the gift-giving goodness of this holiday release, proceeds from Songbook will benefit the TreeHouse Trust, a U.K. charity that helps to educate children with autism and related communication disorders, and 826 Valencia, a nonprofit writing lab based in San Francisco.
In another creative coup, McSweeney's books is issuing a joint book/CD compiled by Nick Hornby. Songbook will include essays penned by Hornby about some of his favorite songs and songwriters, and the CD will comprise many of the songs mentioned in the book.
To add to the gift-giving goodness of this holiday release, proceeds from Songbook will benefit the TreeHouse Trust, a U.K. charity that helps to educate children with autism and related communication disorders, and 826 Valencia, a nonprofit writing lab based in San Francisco.
Corollary: Event-O-Dex XV
Seriously, though: Buy Nothing Day. After sending out a request for donations from Adbusters readers, the folks behind BND have been able to secure an ad spot on CNN's Lou Dobbs Moneyline. It'll air at 6:49 p.m. EST (3:49 p.m. PST) on Tuesday, Nov. 26. That's tomorrow.
Quoth Adbusters: "After you watch those 30 seconds of TV on Tuesday, make plans to party on Friday, Buy Nothing Day, Nov. 29, 2002. Here's only a glimpse of what's in the works:
"In Norway they're playing volleyball with presents; in the Netherlands they're wearing wings of dollars and flying among consumers; in London they're shooting a film with a human-sized credit card; in Japan, the Zen Santas will meditate; and all over consumerland, activists are hitting big-box stores with whirlmart actions.
"Broadcast your plans -- or locate a group to join."
Several folks in Boston are planning activities. Get involved!
Seriously, though: Buy Nothing Day. After sending out a request for donations from Adbusters readers, the folks behind BND have been able to secure an ad spot on CNN's Lou Dobbs Moneyline. It'll air at 6:49 p.m. EST (3:49 p.m. PST) on Tuesday, Nov. 26. That's tomorrow.
Quoth Adbusters: "After you watch those 30 seconds of TV on Tuesday, make plans to party on Friday, Buy Nothing Day, Nov. 29, 2002. Here's only a glimpse of what's in the works:
"In Norway they're playing volleyball with presents; in the Netherlands they're wearing wings of dollars and flying among consumers; in London they're shooting a film with a human-sized credit card; in Japan, the Zen Santas will meditate; and all over consumerland, activists are hitting big-box stores with whirlmart actions.
"Broadcast your plans -- or locate a group to join."
Several folks in Boston are planning activities. Get involved!
Event-O-Dex XV
Don't forget: Shumai, the Tardy, and Spoilsport are playing at Charlie's Kitchen on Harvard Square tonight. Festivities begin at 9:30 p.m., I believe. I'll be there, grilled cheese and beer in hand.
Also don't forget: Buy Nothing Day is Nov. 29. So buy lots of stuff now. If you like classical music, I heartily recommend H&B Recordings Direct.
Also don't forget: Remember the Alamo.
Don't forget: Shumai, the Tardy, and Spoilsport are playing at Charlie's Kitchen on Harvard Square tonight. Festivities begin at 9:30 p.m., I believe. I'll be there, grilled cheese and beer in hand.
Also don't forget: Buy Nothing Day is Nov. 29. So buy lots of stuff now. If you like classical music, I heartily recommend H&B Recordings Direct.
Also don't forget: Remember the Alamo.
The Movie I Watched Last Night XLIII
Equal parts catching up on the Netflix rentals that sat at my house while I was traveling and a largely antisocial, domestic weekend, the last few days have been a veritable film festival for me and the big blue couch on Magazine Street.
Friday: Altered States
William Hurt stars in this 1980 movie that I remember vaguely from the Mad magazine parody -- but knew little about. I thought it was about medical research involving sensory deprivation tanks, and to some extent I was right. But it tries to be more, blending elements of Carlos Castenada and Timothy Leary in a story -- partly based at Harvard -- about using psychoactive drugs and other methods to find the "original self." In an interesting, albeit slightly ham-handed, twist, Hurt's character's research cause physical and genetic retrogression, turning the obsessed scientist into a simian creature -- who promptly goes on a rampage. Eventually, Hurt forsakes his research for his true love, played by Blair Brownn, but in a fit of shoddy special effects, they're nearly pulled back into the retrogression for once and for all. Only their love could save them, and what do you know? It did. An interesting movie that might have been more at home in the '70s than in the early '80s, but really only a curiosity at best.
Saturday: Doctor Zhivago
This was one of my parents' favorite movies, and as one of the last epic romantic movies, it doesn't surprise me that it struck the newlyweds so strongly in 1965. Starring Omar Sharif, the extremely long movie -- I fell asleep during the intermission (intermission!) and had to pick it up again on Sunday, it was so long -- tells the story about a doctor and poet who falls in love with a political activist's wife and spends most of the Bolshevik revolution trying to track her down -- and reconcile his love for Lara with his love for his, gasp, wife. As I said, it's a long movie, and -- told through the perspective of Zhivago's half brother -- the film follows Zhivago's progress through marriage, raising a family, World War I, and the revolution. The prison train scenes are particularly notable, as are the sequences in the reclaimed house of ice and snow, but as a love story, it's somewhat passive aggressive. That's understandable, given the backdrop on which the romance plays out, but outside of some commentary on the role art and poetry can play in revolution, Doctor Zhivago is long on history and short on romance. There might be a reason they don't make them like this any more.
Sunday: The Twilight Zone
I recently signed up for Columbia House's Twilight Zone DVD club, and this is the first disc they mailed. The DVD comprises four episodes. In "Nick of Time" (air date Nov. 18, 1960), William Shatner plays a superstitious fiance who, lured by a penny-ante fortune-telling machine, becomes trapped in a small town in Ohio with his bride to be. Shatner shines as an actor who'd yet to develop his schtick, and you can barely tell it's Captain Kirk. Also some neat exposition on the nature of superstition. When I was dating Sarah, she didn't like it if we walked on opposite sides of a lamp post. In this episode, Shatner pulls his fiancee toward him so she walks on the same side of a street sign as he does. "Bread and butter," he says. I had no idea! In "The Prime Mover" (air date March 24, 1961), Buddy Ebsen plays a telekinetic diner employee who helps his friend build -- and then lose -- a gambling fortune. The story is at times a tale about abusing friendship but redeems itself in the end when Ebsen's pal realizes the error of his ways, drops the gambling, and proposes to his girlfriend. "It's a Good Life" (air date Nov. 3, 1961) is the throwaway of the lot. It's a position piece that merely introduces a menacing character, leaving viewers in the askew-viewed world but not resolving any of the issues raised. The basic idea is that a 10-year-old boy has the power to make real -- and unreal -- anything he likes or dislikes. There are some skin-thin religious allegories as the boy creates a three-headed gopher, but otherwise, it offers an insight on the tyranny of children and the need for socialized ethics, and then steps away. Unsatisfying. Lastly, "The Mind and the Matter" (air date May 12, 1961) stars Shelley Berman as a disgruntled office worker who, pushed too far by the hustle and bustle of city life, wishes away humanity. Obviously, he becomes lonely. So he wishes that everyone were like him. Obviously, that's not the best bet, either, and we're left with the message that diversity is good, loneliness is bad, and to some extent, when life gives us lemons, we need to at least make lemonade, if not suck lemons. I look forward to future DVD's in this series -- The Twilight Zone is a wonderful, wonderful show, and its period moodiness and Rod Serling cameos are delightful. My one complaint is the clunkiness of the navigation. The giant eyeball is a pain in the butt, and the pastiche interstitial scenes that occasionally punctuate episode changes are a waste of time.
The A-Team: "Mexican Slayride"
As the pilot for this program, this episode runs hot and cold. Yes, it introduces the characters: Hannibal (George Peppard, natch), Faceman, Howling Mad Murdock, and B.A. Baracus (as played by Mr. T). And yes, it sets us up for the formulaic adventurers-for-hire storylines that would grace the TV screen for five seasons (the pilot aired Jan. 23, 1983). But running over the course of two hours, it's a bit much. Tim Dunigan stars as Faceman, later to be replaced by Dirk Benedict. And so many characteristics are established, so many elements of interpersonal relationships, so many catchphrases first used, that I'm curious how much more the writers have in them. The story is simple. A wayward journalist is kidnaped in Mexico while tracking down a story about drug smuggling. A colleague enlists the A-Team -- a process that involves a racist Asian disguise that almost rival Mickey Rooney's character in Moon River -- which heads south of the border. They are in turn captured by the smugglers but promptly escape, enlist the aid of an oppressed village, and quell the rebel forces funded by the smuggling. It's at this point unclear how the A-Team brings so many resources to bear, but perhaps that'll come clear in the future. One interesting Peppard tidbit. The armor-plated bus that B.A. rigs up reminds me of the vehicle used in the post-apocalyptic Damnation Alley. Just a little.
Equal parts catching up on the Netflix rentals that sat at my house while I was traveling and a largely antisocial, domestic weekend, the last few days have been a veritable film festival for me and the big blue couch on Magazine Street.
Friday: Altered States
William Hurt stars in this 1980 movie that I remember vaguely from the Mad magazine parody -- but knew little about. I thought it was about medical research involving sensory deprivation tanks, and to some extent I was right. But it tries to be more, blending elements of Carlos Castenada and Timothy Leary in a story -- partly based at Harvard -- about using psychoactive drugs and other methods to find the "original self." In an interesting, albeit slightly ham-handed, twist, Hurt's character's research cause physical and genetic retrogression, turning the obsessed scientist into a simian creature -- who promptly goes on a rampage. Eventually, Hurt forsakes his research for his true love, played by Blair Brownn, but in a fit of shoddy special effects, they're nearly pulled back into the retrogression for once and for all. Only their love could save them, and what do you know? It did. An interesting movie that might have been more at home in the '70s than in the early '80s, but really only a curiosity at best.
Saturday: Doctor Zhivago
This was one of my parents' favorite movies, and as one of the last epic romantic movies, it doesn't surprise me that it struck the newlyweds so strongly in 1965. Starring Omar Sharif, the extremely long movie -- I fell asleep during the intermission (intermission!) and had to pick it up again on Sunday, it was so long -- tells the story about a doctor and poet who falls in love with a political activist's wife and spends most of the Bolshevik revolution trying to track her down -- and reconcile his love for Lara with his love for his, gasp, wife. As I said, it's a long movie, and -- told through the perspective of Zhivago's half brother -- the film follows Zhivago's progress through marriage, raising a family, World War I, and the revolution. The prison train scenes are particularly notable, as are the sequences in the reclaimed house of ice and snow, but as a love story, it's somewhat passive aggressive. That's understandable, given the backdrop on which the romance plays out, but outside of some commentary on the role art and poetry can play in revolution, Doctor Zhivago is long on history and short on romance. There might be a reason they don't make them like this any more.
Sunday: The Twilight Zone
I recently signed up for Columbia House's Twilight Zone DVD club, and this is the first disc they mailed. The DVD comprises four episodes. In "Nick of Time" (air date Nov. 18, 1960), William Shatner plays a superstitious fiance who, lured by a penny-ante fortune-telling machine, becomes trapped in a small town in Ohio with his bride to be. Shatner shines as an actor who'd yet to develop his schtick, and you can barely tell it's Captain Kirk. Also some neat exposition on the nature of superstition. When I was dating Sarah, she didn't like it if we walked on opposite sides of a lamp post. In this episode, Shatner pulls his fiancee toward him so she walks on the same side of a street sign as he does. "Bread and butter," he says. I had no idea! In "The Prime Mover" (air date March 24, 1961), Buddy Ebsen plays a telekinetic diner employee who helps his friend build -- and then lose -- a gambling fortune. The story is at times a tale about abusing friendship but redeems itself in the end when Ebsen's pal realizes the error of his ways, drops the gambling, and proposes to his girlfriend. "It's a Good Life" (air date Nov. 3, 1961) is the throwaway of the lot. It's a position piece that merely introduces a menacing character, leaving viewers in the askew-viewed world but not resolving any of the issues raised. The basic idea is that a 10-year-old boy has the power to make real -- and unreal -- anything he likes or dislikes. There are some skin-thin religious allegories as the boy creates a three-headed gopher, but otherwise, it offers an insight on the tyranny of children and the need for socialized ethics, and then steps away. Unsatisfying. Lastly, "The Mind and the Matter" (air date May 12, 1961) stars Shelley Berman as a disgruntled office worker who, pushed too far by the hustle and bustle of city life, wishes away humanity. Obviously, he becomes lonely. So he wishes that everyone were like him. Obviously, that's not the best bet, either, and we're left with the message that diversity is good, loneliness is bad, and to some extent, when life gives us lemons, we need to at least make lemonade, if not suck lemons. I look forward to future DVD's in this series -- The Twilight Zone is a wonderful, wonderful show, and its period moodiness and Rod Serling cameos are delightful. My one complaint is the clunkiness of the navigation. The giant eyeball is a pain in the butt, and the pastiche interstitial scenes that occasionally punctuate episode changes are a waste of time.
The A-Team: "Mexican Slayride"
As the pilot for this program, this episode runs hot and cold. Yes, it introduces the characters: Hannibal (George Peppard, natch), Faceman, Howling Mad Murdock, and B.A. Baracus (as played by Mr. T). And yes, it sets us up for the formulaic adventurers-for-hire storylines that would grace the TV screen for five seasons (the pilot aired Jan. 23, 1983). But running over the course of two hours, it's a bit much. Tim Dunigan stars as Faceman, later to be replaced by Dirk Benedict. And so many characteristics are established, so many elements of interpersonal relationships, so many catchphrases first used, that I'm curious how much more the writers have in them. The story is simple. A wayward journalist is kidnaped in Mexico while tracking down a story about drug smuggling. A colleague enlists the A-Team -- a process that involves a racist Asian disguise that almost rival Mickey Rooney's character in Moon River -- which heads south of the border. They are in turn captured by the smugglers but promptly escape, enlist the aid of an oppressed village, and quell the rebel forces funded by the smuggling. It's at this point unclear how the A-Team brings so many resources to bear, but perhaps that'll come clear in the future. One interesting Peppard tidbit. The armor-plated bus that B.A. rigs up reminds me of the vehicle used in the post-apocalyptic Damnation Alley. Just a little.
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