June 2004 Archives
30 June 2004
Booby Protest!
Apparently, a breast-feeding mother was offended recently at the Galleria when security personnel asked her to put her tit away, and is making a big damn deal about it:
It was a laid-back day at the mall for Julie Doyle and her son. Like other Galleria shoppers on a Sunday afternoon, four-month old Will got hungry.
So Doyle fed him, sitting on a mall bench.
Julie Doyle was nursing her son, Will, when a Galleria security guard confronted her.
"A security guard came up and said, very confrontationally, 'excuse me, can you please cover yourself?'"said Doyle.
She says she asked security for any written policy on nursing. She was told that it was not forbidden, but the preference was to breast-feed in a less-populated place.
"It bothers me that they were very aggressive and confrontational for something that I have the legal right to do," she said.
Doyle told her friends, who in turn told others, and soon a civil rights-style sit-in, or in this case, "nurse-in" was organized.
Organizers are encouraging moms from all over to breast-feed on Thursday at noon.
Amy Hartley plans to be there in support of Doyle, other nursing moms and the law.
Cool.
So, since I work across the street from the Galleria, I have a plan as well.
I think I'm going to go across to the Galleria tomorrow and document the Titty Solidarity Protest!
If they're so damn excited about baring their boobs in public, then surely they won't mind my giving the mini-camera in the new Sony Ericsson T-610 a good workout during their public display. Maybe we'll have a breast-feeding boobie-thon on PubliusTX.net tomorrow.
We want to support the cause, after all.
(07-01-2004 Update) After having wonderful bbq at Harlon's in the Galleria, Callie and I wandered to the food court for the Titty Solidarity Protest. It wasn't much of a protest. Something like a dozen mothers gathered, and stood around till about five past noon.
Then, apparently one mother went and sat in a seat in the food court, and very discretely nursed her child, with shawl covering the whole affair and the other mothers surrounding her and looking very excited.
Then they all went on their merry way, save for a couple of mothers who continued to talk to an ABC-13 reporter (Deborah Wrigley I believe, but not positive on that).
What a great day for Mothers' Rights!
These ladies dragged their little ones out to a crowded, noisy, germy mall at lunchtime to protest for a right that had not been denied to them, and then five minutes later, went on their merry way.
Let freedom ring.
Incidentally, the T-610 is kind of neat as a novelty, but obviously the photo quality (as above) is pretty poor. Still, in a pinch, it's kind of a cool to have an unobtrusive camera. Several people were taking photos, but as it turns out, promises of a Boobiethon were overblown.
Much was overblown, to be honest.
(07-02-2004 Update) The Comical reports that the mothers moved from the food court upstairs to the Baby Gap for the booby exposure part of their effort. The Chronicle also reports that numbers swelled to 50 up there (from the dozen that were at the Food Court). What a bunch of nitwits.
(07-02-2004 Update 2) Callie notes that I left out the fact that Deborah Wrigley seemed to be instructing the activist mothers on the best way to engage in their titty protest activities. That's just great, huh? The local media helping drive a story instead of just reporting on it. Not surprising at all, really, and just another indicator of the level of nitwittery involved all the way around here.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/30/04 21:53 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (14)
29 June 2004
Rent-A-Beltran For How Long
Here's some interesting speculation from Albert Chen:
In Houston, Brad Lidge probably will turn out to be a better closer than Dotel (he's got better stuff, and as a prospect in the minors, Lidge actually was more highly regarded than Roy Oswalt). But by getting rid of Dotel, eighth innings in Houston, formerly a sure thing with Lidge, will now be an adventure. Which leads to the ridiculous prediction of the day: In a month, the Astros will find themselves 10 games behind the surging Cubs, then will deal Beltran to another contender and ax manager Jimy Williams....
I'm down with Jimy Williams going.
And if there's no way to ink Beltran to a long-term deal, does it make sense to keep him in a month?
Yes, if he gives the team a spark and they start looking like a contender.
However, what if they keep looking like they have in the last few weeks, and there's no way the Astros can compete with the Yankees, who will offer big free-agent dollars at the end of the season?
Do you move him for prospects?
Interesting question. One you probably won't find being addressed by the dolts at the Comical.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/29/04 23:32 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (4)
It's Finally Done
Steve Francis is gone, and so is Kelvin Cato's ridiculous contract. Cuttino Mobley is gone also.
T-Mac, Juwan Howard, Tyronne Lue, and Reece Gaines come to the Rockets.
This should be a good deal for everyone concerned.
I'm looking forward to seeing how Jeff Van Gundy makes the new pieces work. I imagine he's not quite done tinkering with the lineup yet, though.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/29/04 23:27 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (0)
Lots of Geekery Tonight
I got my new t-mobile phone and service yesterday, and have put it through its paces a bit today.
I've been playing with bluetooth on my tired old laptop, and managed to connect using the phone's blueooth to the t-mobile data network.
I couldn't figure out how to connect using THEIR internet connection software, but I did manage to get Win XP, the Bluetooth software, and Sony Ericsson's software all to create me a nice connection to the data network. Speeds tended to vary from 28.8 to 38k or so, with some latency issues (to be expected). Still, it's a pretty cool feature. Sprint's network was faster and didn't have the same latency issues, but it also never worked worth a crap and their phones are junk.
Anyway, that's the general geekery tonight. Not sure ultimately if the internet service will be worth having, but I'm enjoying the Sony Ericsson T-610 a LOT. And considering I was only out $25 cash for it (not including any rebates, which will actually make me money on switching from sprint), it's a big improvement over the old LG 5250 I had with Sprint.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/29/04 23:22 | Other | Technorati | Comments (0)
28 June 2004
Flashbacks
Remember when some Barry Switzer defenders used to write that it wasn't his fault a fine collection of talent couldn't win any football games in Dallas, it was the players' fault?
You Houstonians probably don't, because most of you don't care about the Cowboys.
But I do. And it was always worth a yawn.
Likewise, when Comical mediocrity Richard Justice writes similarly about Astros manager Jimy Williams, it makes me think two things: 1) I'm really sleepy; and 2) The end must be getting near, thank goodness.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/28/04 22:26 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (2)
Erawan
I've been frequenting this new Thai place near where I work in the Galleria, Erawan (in the Randall's shopping center at Sage and San Felipe).
Turns out the place isn't new at all, that's just a new location for it.
Alison Cook reviewed the original location about a year ago:
There is a particular kind of moment that restaurant hounds live for, when the first bite of a dish forces your eyes so wide it's as if they are rolling back in the sockets.
In a comic book, this rapturous occurrence would be illustrated by exclamation-marked "boings" and jagged lightning bolts. In real life, you just exchange pop-eyed glances with your tablemates, as if to ask how anything could possibly taste so good.
The eggplant with basil at Erawan prompted just such a moment.
A dark green shiver of licoricey herb; sparks of fresh red chile; eggplant so lush it was almost molten; a glossy brown sauce that was savory instead of sweet. All these elements twined together into an eyeball-snapping experience.
That it happened in a delightful and undiscovered little Thai place with modest prices and a wine-friendly BYOB policy made it all the more satisfying.
I'm a red wine drinker for the most part, and like the green curry/chicken dishes at Erawan, so the BYOB aspect is kind of lost on me.
But I've really grown to like the place, especially the green curry chicken, spiced up well beyond what is on the menu (you have to become sort of a regular before they will add that much heat to it). The decor is... unusual. Doesn't feel like the strip center joint that it is. And the entire staff is attentive and friendly.
I don't really do food reviews here. I just point out places I like. I'd be interested to hear what some of you who hit the Thai restaurants regularly think about the place.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/28/04 22:18 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (1)
Nothing Like A Little Fecal Matter In Your Ocean
When I first moved to Houston, I initially thought the Galveston beaches were kind of charming.
And then I started paying attention to the news, and realized that this happened with distressing regularity:
The first thing you need to know is that none of the beaches on Galveston Island is closed. Experts say there is certainly no reason for anyone to panic. But there are 'no swimming' advisories in place for three beaches.Galveston County health district officials say the increased bacteria presence in the water can be traced back to the area's recent wet weather.
[snip]
Ronnie Schultz with the Galveston County Health District explained, "It could be from faulty septic systems or sanitary sewer overflows. And it could be from other areas. We've had rain all around southeast Texas. You know, that water is flowing down towards the beaches."
Officials say beach waters will be tested daily until bacteria levels return to normal.
"We test for … an indicator bacteria that there is fecal matter in that water," said Schultz.
And it's testing positive.
Great.
But it doesn't bother some folks:
Despite a 'no swimming' advisory for some beaches on Galveston Island, Justin Marcum and a fellow tourist from Ohio decided to jump in.
He said, "We just came out here from Ohio and we're out here on vacation. So we're out to have a good time."
Apparently, there just are not enough opportunities to swim with turds in Ohio.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/28/04 22:03 | Outdoors | Technorati | Comments (5)
Sore Losers
I was actually going to refrain from laughter over the Shorthorns' loss in the College World Series over the weekend.
But then I read this:
"It appeared by the way we were playing that we were the best team and would win this tournament, which makes it even harder for the players to understand or accept," Texas coach Augie Garrido said. "We did our best. They did better."
Texas chose not to return to the field for the second-place trophy presentation while Garrido talked with the team in the locker room. NCAA officials made two requests for the Longhorns to return to the field.
What a bunch of sore losers.
Nice job, Augie. I'm glad your old team beat your arse.
I do miss college baseball season, though.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/28/04 16:05 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (11)
27 June 2004
Sucking Up To The Declining Bs
Comical columnist Jose of Too Many Names writes this about Craig Biggio:
McLane appreciates what Biggio has meant to the Astros organization for 17 seasons. The Kid is no longer a kid, but class doesn't fade away with age.
For that reason, it is time to pick up Biggio's $3 million club option for 2005. Considering that the Astros would pay a $1 million buyout if they don't exercise the option, the $2 million difference seems like a pittance for a man who has done everything the organization has asked.
Hey, Bidge, move from behind the plate to second base. Fine.
Hey, Bidge, move your 36-year-old self to center field after 11 seasons at second base. Sure.
Hey, Bidge, move your 38-year-old self to left field after almost a year and a half of trying to adjust to center. OK.
Biggio hasn't exactly been thrilled with every move, but he understood that each shift made the club better.
Loyalty is all well and good, and Biggio is having a better season than I would have expected of him, but is there one Comical writer who doesn't just play suckup to the Bagwell and Biggio brigade in nearly every column?
Because of loyalty, the Astros currently have a crippled first baseman who is still better than many, but who is making too much money for a crippled first baseman who is not even close to being the player he once was.
I don't care if loyalty and class figure into the equation, but shouldn't the GM and owner also ask whether the guys can play? Whether the money is better spent on a younger player than Biggio? Whether the combination of salary, age, and diminishing skills hurt the club?
(06-28-04 Update) I always feel better when I'm on the same page as Rafe, since he breathes this stuff.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/27/04 17:23 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (7)
A Montrose Evening
We like hanging out in Montrose.
We especially like dragging frequent commenter Ethan and lovely Cathy (or is that Cathi? or possibly Kathy? or even Kathi? I hate it when I'm not sure of these things) out to try out interesting places we've never been, like Greek bar Byzantio on West Gray (just a few buildings down from the former stomping grounds, and home of Cro Magnon). We also managed to navigate around plenty of Houston-Proud folks on our way to the Hobbit to feed our starving friends, and saw a few more Proud folks while hanging out at an uncharacteristically empty Icehouse.
We give it all an A+.
Aside from the Ouzo. Ouzo is still nasty.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/27/04 01:44 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (5)
26 June 2004
Fan Friendly No More?
I'm not normally one to bitch and moan about bands being sellouts.
You gotta do what you gotta do on the marketing side to make it as a band.
But it's annoying when major bands like the Counting Crows team up with sponsors that insist you can only have the privilege of seeing them IF you pony up your $55 (not including ridiculous INconvenience charge) and only IF you do so with your American Express card.
It looks like it will be a cool show -- House of Blues in Chicago.
And I'm sure it will be a packed house. But that's just annoying, especially so from a band that's always been known as extremely fan friendly.
I know, I should give AMEX credit for sponsoring this "charity event" but to hell with that.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/26/04 12:56 | Music | Technorati | Comments (0)
25 June 2004
Nucleus Update
I finally got around to upgrading the weblog software that powers this site (from Nucleus 3.0 Release Candidate to 3.0 Final).
Everything seems to be working fine, because Nucleus really is very well done software.
But, as always, if anything seems broken, please leave a comment or send an email. Thanks!
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/25/04 22:45 | Web Stuff | Technorati | Comments (0)
Hi Guys!
I just noticed some Houston Chronicle IP addresses in the referrer logs.
Thanks for visiting, guys, but I'd recommend this site. :)
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/25/04 22:34 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (3)
24 June 2004
Go 'Stros
The Astros win the Carlos Beltran sweepstakes!
I haven't been paying much attention to the team for weeks, I have to admit, but I like this deal.
Beltran will improve that pitiful outfield, and the bat should be a nice addition.
Lots of commentary at the Astro in Exile blog, but any serious Astros fan has already read it before coming here. :)
Now if we can just complete that Jimy Williams for backup batboy deal, I think this team might have a chance.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/24/04 22:18 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (3)
Pippa, I Hate To Break It To You
So, I "fired" Farmer's Insurance months ago (retarded details here).
But that has not deterred my former agent. Apparently, she just can't let go.
Today, she sent me a letter (to the wrong street address, even though I corrected it with her office before and after firing her) informing me that in addition to handling my auto insurance needs, her office can also handle my health insurance needs.
Yeah, THAT would be great. I'd be diagnosed with something and need some sort of approval, and months after I had died, she'd be sending me letters discussing my life insurance needs.
For the record, we here at PubliusTX.net don't recommend doing business with Pippa Wiley's Farmer's Insurance office.
And Pippa, really, we think it's time for you to move on. Letting go can be tough, but it's been long enough. Really. You can do it.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/24/04 22:07 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (0)
Update Night
The folks at Mozilla have been hard at work.
It seems like I just upgraded both Firefox and Thunderbird, but nonetheless, there are new versions out.
And the upgrades are worth it.
If you have not yet ditched the inferior, insecure Microsoft browser and email client, consider this my periodic recommendation to do so. :)
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/24/04 21:45 | Web Stuff | Technorati | Comments (2)
Gmail
My good friend Mr. Hanna comments on Gmail, Google's new email service that's currently in beta.
Having previewed the thing (courtesy of Mr. Hanna), I have to agree with him that it's pretty slick.
Nice of Yahoo to boost the functionality of the free email service I'm using with them, of course, and the ability to check pop email accounts is a feature I wish Gmail would add (and it would make sense for them to do so, since it would allow them to serve up more, relevant ads).
But Gmail really appeals to me.
(Update) I should point out that Mr. Hanna actually provided me a link to set up an account, so I'm no longer trolling for someone to do so. But thanks to Rafe for his offer as well. :)
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/24/04 21:17 | Web Stuff | Technorati | Comments (2)
23 June 2004
Geek News
So, I've been a longtime Sprint PCS customer.
I like their digital network. In theory, I like their 3G data network.
But their phones just sort of bite. They aren't cutting edge, they don't interface well with mobile devices (for data), and Sprint doesn't like the idea that anyone might use their vaunted 3G data network for anything more than sending an occasional photo (i.e. you find a way to hook your laptop up to their Vision plans, they will figure it out and try to make you buy a ridiculously expensive, dedicated data package).
So I ordered a T-Mobile Sony Ericsson phone today online. It has bluetooth and IR, and can act as a modem and transfer contact info to/from PDAs.
Very neat!
T-Mobile's GPRS network is less advanced, and not quite as fast as Sprint's network, but it's actually affordable to hook a laptop to the thing and use it.
Only one drawback so far -- the place I ordered it from has already ported my number to the new phone, which means my Sprint phone is useless and I'm waiting for the new phone to ship. So if any of you need me and are inclined to use the cell phone -- you won't catch me that way for a couple of days. :)
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/23/04 22:58 | Other | Technorati | Comments (2)
22 June 2004
Danger Train: Collision #47
The Danger Train just keeps the hits coming of late:
A Tuesday afternoon wreck marks accident number 47 for METRO's light rail.
It happened at the intersection of Alabama and Main just after 4pm. Details of the collision are not yet clear. An ambulance is on the scene, but there's no word if anyone has been injured.
That intersection is a busy one.
I keep hoping I'll be taking in a show at the Continental Club and get to see a train collision as a bonus, but it hasn't happened yet.
(Update) ABC-13 has already updated the original story:
The train was traveling southbound on Main when a westbound motorist apparently ran the red light on Alabama.
The driver of the vehicle hit by the train was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital. There is no word on the extent of his injuries. He will be ticketed for running a red light.
We are world class.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/22/04 17:33 | Danger Train | Technorati | Comments (0)
Jon Matthews
Jon Matthews was in "trouble" long before I got involved with Chronically Biased and the KSEV folks.
I must admit that I never listened to the man on the radio. I wouldn't know him if he came and knocked on my door (and I don't think *ahem* I'll go knocking on his).
But, folks in town seem very interested in the big scandal, and if anyone cares to check out Dan Patrick's comments on the matter, they're posted here.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/22/04 17:29 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (1)
21 June 2004
Flashback Night
I find myself listening to Eddie Money and 38 Special tonight.
And looking at their tour dates.
The closest either one comes to Houston is a 38 Special Beaumont date in August.
Which is a hell of a lot closer and more convenient than anything our boys in the Counting Crows have done lately.
Go ahead, Dave. This post just begs for a comment.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/21/04 20:52 | Music | Technorati | Comments (6)
Jeff Van Gundy Dynamites The Franchise?
Gawd bless Jonathan Feigen.
He may have been (inexcusably) scooped by the Orange County Register on the Rudy-Tomjanovich-to-LA-Lakers-story, but at least he's on top of the latest hot Rockets trade rumors:
Stevie (Not Quite The) Franchise for Tracy McGrady, and whatever scrubs have to be thrown in to make the numbers work.
Good.
Francis never got it done in this city, and ultimately his underachieving was enough to chase Rudy T from being head coach and being replaced with Jeff Van Gundy (don't give me any crap about Rudy T's cancer -- he was gently pushed out, and it was probably best for all parties at the time, but I don't believe he just bowed out with no coercion). Jeff Van Gundy got to the playoffs, and that's it. This team was going nowhere so long as Steve Francis was here.
Now, he's apparently going to be replaced with a guy that I think WILL get it done. I like him matched with Yao.
I hope this thing doesn't fall apart. I've been a T-Mac fan for a while, and I've been tired of the Franchise act for a while longer.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/21/04 20:07 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (2)
Maybe They Could Teach National Socialism In The German Room? Or Not
If you're interested in reading what I think about the silly wife of HCC's chancellor and her goofy escapades, go take a peek at what I posted at Chronically Biased.
And if you're scared to click over because it might be a bunch of right-wing ranting, well, it's not. Don't be afraid. Really.
I just don't feel like crossposting it.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/21/04 19:50 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (1)
Things That Make Me Laugh
I know these thing are auto-generated, but still, the content of this email I got earlier is pretty funny (for those of you who know how big a fan I am of one Kenny Chesney):
Dear Webmaster,
My name is Gary Schultz, and I'm the owner of www.rare-lyrics.com . I
would like to extend a linking invitation to publiustx. This site
has a Google PR of 6 and is spidered daily. You can add your link their
by simply replying with your site details after you have added your link.We add most links and ask that you fill out appropriate information so that you
receive the exact listing you would under the appropriate category.All we ask in return is a visible direct link on a PR 4 page or higher if you
have it. We do link with lower PR sites as well so please do not
hesitate to add your information even if you do have a lower pr ranked
site.My Link is as follows
Title - Kenny Chesney Lyrics
Link - http://lyricsrare-lyrics.com/K/Kenny-Chesney.html
Classic.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/21/04 19:23 | Other | Technorati | Comments (6)
Danger Train: Collision #46
Apologies to you good readers for missing collision #46, which apparently followed shortly after #45:
A pickup truck on the tracks caused METRORail to have its 46th accident, News2Houston reported Friday.
Authorities said the truck was on the tracks at the Main and Franklin intersection around 10 p.m. Thursday when a train collided with it.
The train received minor damage to the front bumper. Details on the truck's damage were not released, but the accident is described as minor.
The wreck comes less than 24 hours after another wreck involving a METRORail train.
It gets hard to keep up.
Thanks to the Wham-Bam-Tram Ram counter for catching this one.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/21/04 06:19 | Other | Technorati | Comments (0)
20 June 2004
A Narcissistic Accused Rapist?
I know that certain athletes tend to send choice quotes to certain sportswriters, and that certain sportswriters, in return, write highly favorable things in exchange.
That's life.
That being said, this is a harsh assessment from Tom Friend:
It looks like Buss, the Lakers' owner, has made his choice: Kobe stays; the others can go. In other words, he is not averse to trading Shaq and is willing to build his franchise around a narcissist who's on trial for rape, doesn't make his teammates better and is in denial over all of it.
Ouch.
It's an interesting article, although certainly a Shaq-friendly one.
I'm a Shaq fan, so of course I'm happy enough to link to it.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/20/04 18:04 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (3)
The Answer Is Not Mike Lamb
DMN columnist Gerry Fraley pulls no punches when it comes to the flailing Astros:
The latest hope within the Houston Astros is getting third baseman Mike Lamb into the lineup more often will help the ailing club.
Mike Lamb?
That seals it. The hyped Astros really are in deep trouble.
In four seasons with the Rangers, Lamb was a quality left-handed hitter but defensively challenged. Most teams would like to have a Mike Lamb, on the bench.
Mike Lamb is not supposed to turn around the Astros. That duty falls on the high-profile free-agent pitchers added during the off-season: Roger Clemens and Andy Pettitte.
Or on the former National League Most Valuable Players: first baseman Jeff Bagwell and second baseman Jeff Kent.
Or on center fielder Craig Biggio, a seven-time All-Star; and left fielder Lance Berkman, twice an All-Star.
So far, only Clemens is holding up his end of the deal.
A 4-1 loss to the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday at Minute Maid Park put the Astros at 9-4 in Clemens' starts and 24-27 in all other games. The Astros have lost 20 of their last 32 games to drop into fifth place in the National League Central.
Milwaukee is among the clubs ahead of Houston. The Brewers have a $27.5 million payroll. The Astros' payroll swelled to $75.4 million this season.
This is not quite what Astros owner Drayton McLane meant when he said before the season, "It's our turn."
If they don't turn it around by the All-Star break, Fraley says Jimy is gone.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/20/04 00:34 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (4)
19 June 2004
Tomjanovich to Lakers?
If you rely on the Comical for your sports news, you have no idea that Rudy Tomjanovich may well be the Los Angeles Lakers new head coach.
Instead, you get copy from John Lopez on how the Kobe/Shaq/Payton/Malone experiment didn't work out.
Because nobody's written THAT story already.
Pitiful. Comical.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/19/04 12:49 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (1)
She broke her ankle playing "sadistic" dodgeball?
The wussification of the culture continues:
The Chronicle's June 14 article, "Artful dodges / OUCH! OUCH! GAME IS BACK WITH A VENGEANCE — OUCH!" brought back some painful memories for me. I broke my ankle in fourth grade while trying to survive a game of dodge ball in physical education class. The boys would get as close as they were allowed — up to some line on the gymnasium floor — and whip the ball with all of their might. The high-fives of the victors after really "nailing" someone stung as badly as the big red balls.
I fail to see any athletic benefit to this sadistic "game," so I refuse to let my children participate in it. At least football players have padding.
Tina McGarry, Katy
Oh good grief.
For the record, I loved dodgeball as a kid. And when someone actually caught me unawares and blasted me really good, well, kudos to them. That was the point of the whole thing.
I don't know if it served any useful physical fitness purpose. But it was fun. Kids used to have fun.
Now, their parents worry that dodgeball might damage their psyches and break their ankles. Bah.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/19/04 12:15 | Other | Technorati | Comments (11)
18 June 2004
Lydia's Shower
I haven't been to the Icehouse in a few weeks.
So I had no idea they were having Lydia's shower there tomorrow.
4pm.
Go participate if you're so inclined. Or just go spend lots of money on beer.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/18/04 23:13 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (3)
The Important Questions In Life
So, kids, if you were considering a new portable machine....
All things being equal, would you go for an Athlon-64 machine (3ghz equivalent or so) or an Intel mobile pentium hyperthreading machine (actual 3ghz or so)?
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/18/04 19:37 | Other | Technorati | Comments (1)
The Icehouse
The best icehouse in the state of Texas (which pretty much makes it the best icehouse in the world) just got a nice feature in the Chronicle.
I realize that I beat up on the silly newspaper all the dang time, but Amanda Orr does a good job with this feature, and really captures the spirit of the place:
Between the victory whoops coming from pool players and the honks and shouts of "Hey, baby" from driversby, the atmosphere can best be described as lively. There are no social classes here. No one cares what kind of car you drive or how much money you made last year. At West Alabama Ice House, ice-cold beer remains the great equalizer.
Sure, it can be a little rough around the edges, and there's usually a dog scratching himself in the corner -- but that's what makes it one of Houston's most-beloved watering holes.
It's one of the best people-watching spots in town, the jukebox is super, and the beers are always the coldest.
What else does a person need from an Ice House, really? Or from life, for that matter?
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/18/04 11:52 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (3)
Things That Make Me Shake My Head
It's a shame to see what was once a great company implode.
Rebuilding investor confidence after the disastrous handling of multiple reserves write-downs ought to be occupying the time of most anyone who's important at Shell.
Instead, their new chairman is "very worried for the planet."
He ought to be more worried about his company and its stockholders!
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/18/04 00:02 | Other | Technorati | Comments (2)
17 June 2004
Hidalgo's Gone
Richard Hidalgo was traded today for David Weathers.
No word on whether the Jimy Williams for batboy trade is nearing completion.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/17/04 14:57 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (0)
Danger Train: Collision #45
We've had another collision with the Danger Train, and ABC-13 has the details:
Another light rail accident happened overnight in midtown. METRO logged accident number 45 when a tourist tried making a U-turn in front of a train late Wednesday night.
Instead of south, the driver apparently wanted to go north on Main but ended up in an accident on Main and Elgin.
The driver made a U-turn in front of the oncoming train. The train slammed into the driver's side of the Jaguar. The force of the impact sent the car flying into a light pole.
The driver tells police he's from Kansas and didn't understand what he was doing. Investigators say the driver did everything wrong.
"He is not familiar with the area and that he's from Kansas," said Sgt. Antonio Ford with the METRO Police Department. "He says all he wanted to do is go the opposite way."
METRO police suspect the driver was intoxicated. He will be tested.
Kansas is NOT world class. WE are world class!
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/17/04 08:38 | Danger Train | Technorati | Comments (4)
16 June 2004
Dickie V on Larry B
It seems so long ago, when Dick Vitale was predicting this:
My gut feeling is the winner in the Larry Brown sweepstakes will be Houston. I really feel he will fit in perfectly there, loving the idea that he'll have a big man in the middle to work with in Yao Ming. Is there a better guy to teach post moves in the interior? He will get the most out of Yao's potential.
Brown will love working with Steve Francis on the perimeter, as well as Cuttino Mobley in the backcourt. This team is capable of making its move and developing into a playoff contender.
King James, aka LeBron James, said he'd love to have Brown as his coach, claiming the ex-Sixers leader is a teacher. James loves learning about the game.
But the bottom line is, with a team capable of getting to the winner's circle quicker, Houston will be the winner for the services of Brown.
Oh well.
He only won an NBA championship. Who needed him?
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/16/04 21:15 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (1)
Hurtt
Callie's comment tonight on the new police chief:
He may be more stupid than C.O.!
She's referring to C.O. Bradford of course. No comment. Yet. But no strong objections to her assessment, either.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/16/04 21:11 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (0)
Dead Sea Scrolls
KHOU-11 reports that the Dead Sea Scrolls will be making a Houston appearance
Hidden for almost 2,000 years in remote caves in the Judean desert, the Dead Sea Scrolls will be exhibited at the Houston Museum of Natural Science from Oct. 1 through Jan. 2, 2005.
Things like this, rather than trains that flood in heavy rain or baseball stadiums with bad sightlines, make Houston world class.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/16/04 21:00 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (1)
Good pairings
Red Diamond Merlot (2000, Washington) mixes very well with Bach's violin concertos.
Just in case anyone was wondering.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/16/04 20:56 | Other | Technorati | Comments (2)
15 June 2004
Shall we start the Jimy Termination countdown?
The Astros appear to be trying to push off Richard Hidalgo on the Mets:
The Astros, for instance, have let the Mets know that outfielder Richard Hidalgo would be available in a deal, according to the Newark Star-Ledger. The Astros would want a prospect in return for Hidalgo, according to the report.
[snip]
Hidalgo, who's missed the last three games with a sore neck, has cooled off drastically after a red-hot April. The Astros are willing to pick up part of his $12 million salary; the club holds a $2 million option on next year's contract, which would pay Hidalgo $15 million should the Astros exercise the option.
It's all about moving the salary.
You Astros fans didn't really think Drayton had changed, did you? That all those extra fannies in the Minute Maid seats would make him less budget conscious?
One wonders if the Astros shouldn't instead be considering moving their crippled first baseman to an AL team, where he could DH, in exchange for something more than "a prospect."
But, of course, such talk about Saint Jeffy is not allowed in this town.
Heck, it seemed like Comical mediocrity Richard Justice was going to have a stroke because Jimy Williams moved Saint Jeffy from the three to the five spot in the batting order.
Never mind that the three spot is usually reserved for the best hitter on the team, and we haven't thought of Bagwell that way for quite a while -- some things just can't be said in this town.
Anyway, who cares? I say trade Jimy Williams AND Richard Justice to New York, for a batboy and a journalism intern to be named later.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/15/04 23:46 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (8)
Ha!
Okay, at some point if I keep linking to posts over at the Brazosport News, you all are going to think:
1) Whited has a crush on this Banjo dude
or
2) To hell with Whited's lack of content. We're just going to go read this Banjo dude.
But still...
I can't help it.
If you go to his place, you can read a fun post on Home Depot vs. Lowe's.
For the record, 1) I don't have a crush on this Banjo dude and 2) It's quite likely you'd be better off. :)
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/15/04 23:31 | Other | Technorati | Comments (1)
Did Dave Ward Actually Read This Headline?
ABC-13 wins the headline award tonight:
Plan to save city money could cut potties from city parks
Okay.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/15/04 22:06 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (0)
A PSA
I've never been a big laptop user because of the heat generated by the things.
But lately, I've been spending WAY too much time at the keyboard, and I've decided that if I'm going to be spending so much time at the keyboard, the keyboard really needs to follow me to my recliner (yeah, we are an affluent society).
So on a lark, I ordered one of these bad boys.
And lo and behold, the hype actually is accurate.
It's a good heat blocker, it holds the laptop steady, and it makes for a nice lap desk.
Consider this a Public Service Announcement for laptop users.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/15/04 21:51 | Other | Technorati | Comments (2)
14 June 2004
Bell Attacks DeLay, Prepares for Next Campaign
Charles Kuffner calls attention to this latest bit of grandstanding from soon-to-be-ex Congressman Chris Bell, and asks:
Will Bell get the tacit or not-so-tacit support of the leadership, or will he get pressure from his own team to back off?
I'm 99.9% certain that Kuff's serious. Gawd bless him.
The answer to that question, of course, is that it's not quite the right question.
Who cares what the national leadership thinks? (However, it's hard to believe this doesn't meet their approval, as Bell is serving as a useful idiot for them.)
This was done because Chris Bell is a political opportunist, he has ambitions to run for office again in Texas, and this will please the right sorts of people in Texas (people who can be helpful -- or not -- to his next campaign). It's perfect!
Let's not forget that Mr. Bell has experience at this game. After spending months and months as the anti-Brown candidate for mayor in 2001, blasting Lee Brown at every opportunity, Bell refused to endorse the remaining anti-Brown candidate (Orlando Sanchez) for mayor when he failed to make the runoff himself. Instead, Bell ignored everything he had previously said about Brown's disastrous leadership, and cut a deal to support Brown in the runoff in exchange for the support of Brown and his political allies for Bell's future Congressional race.
That support from Brown and his political allies proved crucial, as Bell was able to defeat Carroll Robinson in the primary for the Congressional seat he now holds. The irony of it all is that all of the Dems now whining that redistricting has knocked out white moderate Dem Bell in favor of black liberal Dem Al Green can really blame themselves, Chris Bell's opportunism, and Lee Brown's desperation for the fact that black moderate Carroll Robinson isn't their safe, incumbent Congressman right now.
The sad thing about Chris Bell is that he could win elections without engaging in this sort of crass opportunism.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/14/04 21:44 | Texas | Technorati | Comments (2)
Marvin's Latest
ABC-13's Marvin Zindler passes this along tonight:
No one should have to lie in their urine while in a nursing home.
The staff at PubliusTX.net agrees.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/14/04 21:17 | Other | Technorati | Comments (2)
13 June 2004
The Village Idiot? Oh my!
In addition to kicking some serious news arse in Houston every ratings period, ABC-13's Dave Ward just plain rocks:
"People have known us for so long. The real spark, of course, was in 1972 when we hired Marvin Zindler. He was working for the sheriff's department before that. Everybody knew who Marvin was. My God, when you put the Village Idiot on the air, everybody is going to tune in."
Ha ha ha ha!
That's hilarious.
Dave Ward, by the way, is the best teleprompter reader EVER.
Better than Reagan. Better than Clinton.
Nobody beats Dave with the teleprompter.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/13/04 23:21 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (4)
Boom!
Okay, I just can't resist commenting on this bit of news:
A lightning strike around 6:30pm Sunday took out the city's 311 system.
Look, calling the stupid thing never gets anything fixed anyway.
Maybe a big lightning strike to put it out of everyone's misery is just what was needed.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/13/04 23:16 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (1)
Yum
My mom sends along this photo of my dad picking a nice Zucchini squash.
My dad is quite the amazing gardener, if I've not mentioned it. It's looking pretty lush right now. :)
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/13/04 22:39 | Outdoors | Technorati | Comments (1)
Larry Brown
So, is anyone watching the NBA Finals thinking that maybe Les Alexander should have pushed just a little harder to get Larry Brown to Houston?
Nothing against Jeff van Gundy.
But Larry Brown's one of the best coaches who's ever lived.
And he's proving it in this series.
I wonder what he could have done with Yao and Cuttino and Stevie.
Oh well.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/13/04 22:27 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (0)
Headlines
Okay, I haven't been paying much attention to the retarded Astros.
After the letdown of the Coogs' surging in the latter part of the season (taking series from both East Carolina and Tulane, who advanced to Super Regionals) only to fall short of a trip to the NCAAs, I just haven't cared much about baseball, especially overpaid prima donnas.
But this headline strikes me as backwards: Williams can't hide Astros' flaws
The fact that a regular columnist at the Comical has problems with subject-verb agreement, problems that are not corrected by editors, strikes me as backwards also, but that's beside the point.
Seriously. Come on. Haven't we all pretty much concluded that if the Astros do manage to win their division this year, it's going to be in spite of Jimy "I'm short a consonant" Williams?
It's going to be because Roger Clemens is man enough to strap the entire underachieving lot on his considerable back, and carry 'em all, retarded manager included?
I don't know if Rocket has it in him. I hope he does.
But if it happens, it's surely going to be DESPITE Jimy Williams, not because of him.
And I say that as someone who originally saw Jimy as "the answer" to Houston's problems. Proof that I can admit when I'm wrong, because I was surely wrong.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/13/04 22:23 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (2)
Out-of-Town Hurtt?
Is our new police chief going to manage to be out of town anytime anything something important happens in Houston?
The arrest of local civil rights leader Quanell X is a very controversial one. He was arrested Friday while he says he was trying to deliver a suspected felon to police. On Saturday, Police Chief Harold Hurtt, who was out of town Friday, responded to some of the criticism his department is getting.
Quanell X was delivering suspect Derrick Forney to Houston police on Friday. Forney is accused of shooting officer Matt Richard last Wednesday.
Qaunnel X’s attorney, Jolanda Jones, says the activist had arrangements with HPD brass to turn Forney in. But he was pulled over with the suspect still inside at least 30 minutes, she says, before a prearranged deadline. Investigators suggested that Quanell X had deviated from a preplanned route.
"There was no designated route," said Jones. "For the DA’s office to say he deviated from the route is absolutely untrue."
Police charged Quanell X with evading arrest, but the activist says he was on the phone with Assistant Police Chief Charles McClelland the whole time.
"The chief said that he would instruct them, I guess, via the radio or something to back off," said Jones.
Chief Hurtt said of the arrest, "I think there's a difference when you're talking on the phone to someone, and they're trying to explain what's going on, and being actually there observing behavior."
Can anyone translate what the police chief says into English?
Seriously, every time he talks, it just looks like gibberish. What the hell does that mean, there's a difference in talking to someone on the phone versus observing behavior?
Anyway, the last mayor certainly established a fine tradition of always being out of town.
But one would think the new police chief would be around for more than, say, implementing budget cuts planned by Mayor White's staff or installing cameras at every intersection to generate revenue.
It's not exactly as if HPD is functioning as a model for other police departments in the nation. Far from it. And it's not as if it isn't facing major problems (crime lab, no cadet classes in how long?).
So how could the chief not know this was going down? I'm not one you could call a Quanell X supporter, but wouldn't most impartial observers think the police chief might be in the loop on something like this? And might have something more enlightening to say afterwards?
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/13/04 18:57 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (3)
BCS Tinkering
We've now come full circle.
Folks who once celebrated the fact that the BCS system lessened human subjectivity in the determination of the nation's best teams now have embraced a return to the greater subjectivity of human polls.
Berry Tramel explains the thinking:
A team on Labor Day is not the same as the team on Thanksgiving. The Oklahoma team of last October was not the same Oklahoma team of last December.
The polls saw it. The computers didn't.
In the cold, clean, factoid world of computers, OU's 35-7 loss to Kansas State in the Big 12 final was no high crime. But in the colorful landscape of the human brain, a 28-point defeat in December shouts loudly. This team deserved no Sugar Bowl.
Thus the BCS recast. Southern Cal, ranked No. 1 by traditional arbiters AP and the coaches, was barred from the national-championship Sugar bowl.
And suddenly the polls were in vogue again. What goes around comes around. If you lose, lose early. Makes sense to me.
I don't especially have a problem with it, but I did have a problem last year when so many people wanted to change the BCS rules in the middle of the game.
At some point in the next few years -- maybe even this season -- there will be a controversy over giving human voters so much sway, and we will swing back to greater reliance on formulas and equations. So it goes.
In some ways, we are all children of the Progressives. :)
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/13/04 15:52 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (3)
Local music alert
While roadtripping around the state in search of music yesterday, I apparently missed a Cactus in-store appearance by Silverleaf to promote their new CD.
I've followed some of those guys since their 24 Count days, and like their stuff. They're outside of my usual live music taste (since they're very much alt-rock, not alt-country), but they're good.
I'll have to check out that new CD.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/13/04 09:49 | Music | Technorati | Comments (2)
12 June 2004
Banjos and Rickenbackers
Here's a story from Banjo about his wife's encounter with President Reagan.
Neat.
I'm sorry I can't write about any such brushes with celebrity.
But I am heading to Gruene in just a few minutes to see my friends, The Dead End Angels, play some of the most original, rocking alt-country tunes being produced in this fine state right now. Maybe they'll turn into celebrities one of these days. :)
If I see any of ya over there, I might even be persuaded to buy you a brew.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/12/04 11:32 | Music | Technorati | Comments (4)
11 June 2004
My Conservative Journey
Okay, here's another political post. I promise I'll stop for a while after this one.
I've refrained from commenting much on the death of President Reagan and this week of mourning.
Although I don't really talk about national politics on this weblog any more, it's hardly a secret that I'm a conservative who loves politics and political philosophy.
[Read More]Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/11/04 22:26 | Other | Technorati | Comments (1)
Drudge on the Clintons
Okay, I don't usually do politics here (two other sites devoted to that), but here's something general:
I don't like this treatment of the Clintons by Drudge.
I'm not sure what it was intended to convey, but it seems to suggest that the Clintons slept through the service. It didn't look that way to me watching live. In fact, it seemed as if former President Clinton was closing his eyes to soak in the words. He really seemed to enjoy the grandeur of the ceremony, and he and his wife behaved with class. At least in my opinion.
And I'm not someone who can be called a Clinton defender or apologist.
Just as I haven't liked some of the cheap shots at Reagan over the course of the week, I don't see any need for cheap shots at Mr. Clinton.
We can all be better than that. Even Matt Drudge.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/11/04 17:03 | Other | Technorati | Comments (2)
OU-Houston To Be Televised
I might not have to travel to Norman after all.
TBS just announced that the UH-OU game would be televised:
Oklahoma's non-conference football game against Houston on Sept. 11 will be broadcast at 6 p.m. on TBS (Cox 62).
It's the fourth OU television game to be announced for the 2004 season. ABC will televise the Sept. 4 game vs. Bowling Green (11 a.m.,), the Sept. 18 game vs. Oregon (2:30 p.m.) and the Oct. 9 game vs. Texas (11 a.m.).
Cool.
I'll be rooting for the Coogs in every other game this season, but Oklahoma has a chance at a national championship and Houston does not, so I'll be yelling "Boomer Sooner" instead of "Go Coogs" in this one.
But I wouldn't be too upset if Art Briles somehow were to pull off the impossible and win in Norman. And I do hope UH has a good showing regardless. :)
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/11/04 10:32 | Big 12 Football | Technorati | Comments (1)
10 June 2004
Interesting Times At Valley Ranch
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Antonio Bryant still has not returned to practice, after he started an argument with one of the assistant coaches, had a tantrum, and was effectively thrown off the football field by head coach Bill Parcells:
The Cowboys are scheduled to wrap up their practice sessions on Friday, the conclusion of seven consecutive days of work and their final on-field football activity until reporting to training camp on July 29 in Oxnard, Calif., and Bryant is not expected to be present. Sources say he might have returned home to the Miami area.
And judging from what took place Tuesday, that might be just enough distance between Bryant and Parcells to preclude any further blowups. Bryant and Parcells got into a heated exchange, according to practice witnesses Tuesday afternoon, after the third-year receiver engaged in arguments with veteran receiver Keyshawn Johnson and then new receivers coach Todd Haley. It's suspected Bryant is disenchanted with his role in the offense, playing behind Johnson and veteran Terry Glenn.
But when Parcells stepped in to mediate the exchange, evidently Bryant took off his jersey and threw it to the ground. Parcells then flung the jersey back at the Cowboys' former second-round pick in 2002 and kicked him out of practice. Bryant was escorted off the field and from the practice facility by club security.
Antonio Bryant has some talent, but his output on the playing field has never matched the output from his mouth. The guy ought to appreciate his opportunity to learn from one of the best coaches in the history of the game, and work to become a "Parcells guy." Instead, it wouldn't be surprising is he becomes someone else's problem (Al Davis's?) before the season starts.
Elsewhere, the pansies at the Dallas Morning News are all up in arms over the Parcell's statement from a couple of days ago.
And that's not all. The term that he used – "Orientals" – is out of favor as a descriptor of Japanese, Chinese, Koreans and others from eastern Asia. The preferred term is "Asian."
Maybe it's too much to expect a football coach to keep up with the latest trends in ethnic nomenclature, but Mr. Parcells telegraphed that he knew his "Jap" comment could cause offense before he said it. We suspect he's learned his lesson.
I suspect he doesn't really give a flying F what the DMN editorial board thinks about him. Indeed, I might suggest to them that they ought to show more concern about one of their reporters effectively stealing an entire story from the Quorum Report a few days ago with no attribution (more on that soon).
I prefer the reaction of the guy I think is the best sportswriter in this fine state, Randy Galloway:
Allow me to be one of the many to offer thanks for the prompt response from our local PC police, who sprang quickly into action after Bill Parcells opened his yap.
Bill, please. You can't say that.
Attending Big Bill's media session Monday, I thought he was being informative and entertaining, which is usually the case, at least in my opinion.
But when Parcells mentioned "Jap plays," an uneasy feeling suddenly consumed the room.
As expected, several hours later came the official Valley Ranch statement of apology from Parcells.
But even for a man who seems to have a spotless career record of working well with all creeds and colors, an apology was not good enough for the media division of the PC police.
Parcells had made himself an easy target for pulpit pounding and righteous indignation.
I even read that the "Jap plays" comment needed to bring to an end the "free ride" Parcells has been given by the local media.
Free ride?
Do we really want to get into free rides?
If we do, then what about the limo-in-print provided by a select few who choose to repeatedly defend Tom Hicks and John Hart from all critics?
Or, at the opposite end of the free ride equation, those who want Don Nelson fired because the Mavericks play no defense but then write that the NBA playoffs are "awful" because there's not enough Mavs-type offense?
For the record, however, count me guilty as charged on the Parcells' "free ride."
And that won't change anytime soon, at least not while the memory of last season's 10-7 record is still fresh.
For the Cowboys to have won 10 games, and earned a playoff berth, with that particular collection of offensive talent is the best one-season coaching job in the history of the franchise. And that statement comes from me, the local-chapter chairman of The Jimster Fan Club.
If free rides are going to be given, I'll take Parcells over Hicks and Hart anytime.
But now that the PC police have done their job, and Parcells has been properly chastised, and Parcells has apologized, we can turn our attention to more important issues.
It's not unlike my own reaction. It was a goofy thing to say, the coach apologized, now let's get on to more important matters.
(Update) Kirk Bohls has some good thoughts on the matter also:
Word of caution to Parcells and all public figures: If you feel inclined to make an apology before your next comment, you might want to rethink making same comment.
That said, I don't believe Parcells meant to slam an entire nation when he made his ill-advised remarks, but then neither you nor I really know Parcells very well.
These are the eternal truths of today's society: We as a people — and I am speaking globally — are way too easily offended. Too many of us go out of our way to look for ways to be offended. We are hypersensitive, and it's a slippery path we're descending.
A comment that is slightly suggestive, provocative or offensive will always be blown out of proportion. Just ask Fuzzy Zoeller. We in the media deserve much of the blame. We blast the Spurs for being boring and worship the Lakers, then condemn Shaq for uttering profanities on live TV.
I am curious if anyone knows why Parcells would refer to trick plays as "Jap plays" in the first place. The reason I ask is that former Oklahoma offensive coordinator and current Texas Tech head coach Mike Leach used to have a bizarre offensive set that he referred to as his "Ninja formation" (the linemen would line up in bunches, away from the center). Is this common among coaches, to refer to bizarre play sets as somehow being Asian, or is this just an odd coincidence between two coaches I happen to follow?
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/10/04 20:02 | Dallas Cowboys | Technorati | Comments (6)
09 June 2004
Danger Train: Collision #44
Just when you think Houstonians are finally steering clear of the Danger Train....
* CRASH *
The Danger Train ramps up again. Yesterday was #44:
For the second time in as many days there has been a collision between METRO's light rail line and a car.
Mike Villarreal says he was driving east on Pierce and had the green light as he drove across the tracks on Main. That's when the train hit him. Villarreal says he has two other witnesses who also say he had the green light.
METRO officers on the scene did not talk, but the accident is under investigation. This is the 44th accident since the trains began running at the beginning of the year.
It's entirely possible the light was green. It's also worth recalling that METRO doesn't view such dangerous situations as a problem.
More coverage from KHOU-11 and KPRC-2, and of course there's always the invaluable Wham-Bam-Tram Ram counter.
We're world class!
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/09/04 06:38 | Danger Train | Technorati | Comments (1)
08 June 2004
Pursuing Other Interests
Landry's Restaurants shares took a tumble yesterday.
Not because the food at most Landry's restaurants is subpar and people are coming to their senses.
No, of course that's not it (we won't even get started on the Pappas restaurants and their inexplicable appeal).
Landry's shares took a tumble because they lost a financial officer and aren't really saying why:
Shares of Landry's Restaurants (NYSE: LNY) fell nearly 7% in Monday trading as news spread about the departure of company CFO Paul West. According to an SEC filing made yesterday, West "resigned to pursue other interests."
Investors have to be scratching their heads over the handling of this one. The company, which operates Joe's Crab Shack, Rainforest Cafe, and several other eatery chains, actually dated its filing for Friday. Yet as of Monday evening there had been no press release despite this qualifying, one would think, as important news. And it's not as though Landry's is particularly tight-lipped: It's a regular on the investment conference circuit.
Ah, yes, the ubiquitous pursuit of other interests.
Is there a more dishonest, empty phrase in American corporate culture?
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/08/04 23:33 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (6)
Chalupa Assault!
A while back, we had a taco assault incident here in the Houston area.
In Iowa, there's been a chalupa assault:
A crime report written by a Des Moines, Iowa, police officer identifies the weapon used in an alleged assault as a chalupa.
"I've never had anything quite like that before," said Detective Darren Cornwell.
The Des Moines (Iowa) Register reported a disgruntled customer allegedly threw the chalupa at a Taco Bell employee. A chalupa is an oval piece of tortilla dough which is cooked, filled and then pinched closed along its edges.
No word on whether the movie Urban Cowboy served as inspiration. At least no gunfire was involved in this one.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/08/04 18:52 | Other | Technorati | Comments (4)
07 June 2004
Good Blogs
Here are some good blogs I've been reading lately (but that I can't seem to remember to add to my blogroll).
Maybe this will help me remember to do that.
Go check out:
Amanda Strassner's World on the Web
Vikk's Down the Writers's Path
and
Sherri's Nothing in Particular.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/07/04 21:43 | Web Stuff | Technorati | Comments (0)
Oh for gawd's sake
Dallas Cowboys coach Bill Parcells said this today:
Cowboys coach Bill Parcells used a racial slur during a news conference at the team's practice facility Monday. While discussing two of his assistant coaches, quarterbacks coach Sean Payton and defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, Parcells said, "Sean's going to have a few ... no disrespect to the Orientals, but what we call Jap plays, OK, surprise things."
When an audience of reporters began to murmur about the comment, Parcells added, "No disrespect to anyone."
Parcells was referencing Payton's penchant for installing trick plays. Regarding Payton and Zimmer, Parcells said, "You've got to keep an eye on those two because they're going to try and get the upper hand."
Parcells' comments came after he was asked about his comfort level with his coaching staff.
"Bill Parcells is a brilliant coach," said John Tateishi of the Japanese-American Citizen's League, a national civil rights group. "Unfortunately, he is ignorant about racial slurs. I take great offense by what he said. Parcells ought to know better. He sorely needs more education on what is offensive and non-offensive to Japanese-Americans. I am shocked that he would say this."
Parcells later released a statement, apologizing for his comments.
“Today during my news conference I made a very inappropriate reference, and although I prefaced it with the remark, ’no disrespect to anyone intended,’ it was still uncalled for and inconsiderate. For that I apologize to anyone who may have been offended,” he said.
Cowboys spokesman Rich Dalrymple said the “organization apologizes to anyone who may have been offended.”
Japanese journalist Akira Kuboshima, visiting Valley Ranch for the Cowboys' minicamp, said Parcells apologized to him for the comments during the afternoon practice.
"It's more shocking that everyone in there noticed," said Kuboshima, editor of American Football Magazine Japan. "I don't want anyone to hear or read that. I wish everyone would just forget it. I admire Coach Parcells."
Kuboshama has the right attitude. Parcells said something stupid, he apologized, that's that.
The fact that we get so excited about something so minor -- yet we (well, not me personally, but "conservative" Fox News) give an interview to acquitted murderer OJ Simpson to tell "his side of the story" -- says something about how out of whack we are as a society with what we find offensive.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/07/04 20:51 | Dallas Cowboys | Technorati | Comments (0)
Danger Train: Collision #43
There was another Danger Train collision today:
There was another METRO light rail accident in the Medical Center.
It happened Monday morning on Fannin and John Freeman. This makes it the 42nd accident since the rail line was launched.
The vehicle was traveling northbound on Fannin and made an illegal U-turn. The train barely struck the vehicle. More than likely the driver will be cited.
No one was injured.
ABC-13 is wrong. The 42nd accident happened several days ago. This was actually #43.
It's hard to keep up.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/07/04 18:10 | Danger Train | Technorati | Comments (1)
05 June 2004
Ronald Reagan, RIP
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/05/04 17:44 | Other | Technorati |
Ouch
Personally, I don't think teams with losing records should be allowed in the NCAA baseball tourney because it devalues the importance of a team's performance over the whole season.
If a team with a losing record wins its conference tourney, give 'em a pat on the back and a trophy, congratulate 'em on playing a few days of good baseball (as opposed to a few months), and send 'em home.
That said, TSU is one of those teams that wouldn't be eligible for the tourney under my rules.
And under my rules, they wouldn't have upset the mighty defending national champions at their home-field regional yesterday.
I think Rice has been a little overrated all season because of last season's performance, but this was totally unexpected. I wouldn't be surprised, though, if Rice finds a way to win their regional even after this setback.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/05/04 10:09 | Sports | Technorati | Comments (4)
04 June 2004
Stop Using IE!
After spending nearly two hours fighting with some malicious adware on Callie's computer, I'm going to recommend once again that you IE folks adopt a better browser (I like Mozilla Firefox) and ditch MS Internet Explorer.
Somehow, Callie managed completely by accident to get a malware searchbar installed on her machine thanks to the insecure MS browser.
And the thing managed to hook itself into her system. As in, neither Ad Aware nor Spybot Search and Destroy could kill it. Deletions from the registry couldn't kill it. Fiddling with MSConfig couldn't kill it. It just kept coming back for more.
Finally, I managed to kill it with this handy little program and some safe-mode boots and reboots. Not something the normal end user should be doing (or should have to do).
So, I'll say it again -- if you want to avoid such things, stop using IE. And if you don't want to believe me, go read this. And if you insist on using MS's inferior browser, at least follow the recommendations on the page I just linked.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/04/04 23:33 | Web Stuff | Technorati | Comments (4)
Banjo's Latest
Modest Proposal: Michael Moore's Next Movie
Just go read.
Banjo's insane. That would be why he's one of my favorite bloggers.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/04/04 21:40 | Other | Technorati | Comments (0)
Fortified Tractor Anyone?
Man, I hope Scott Chaffin doesn't see this bit of news, and get any ideas about souping up that tractor he keeps down on the campground.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/04/04 21:08 | Other | Technorati | Comments (3)
Hannity & Colmes
Okay, so I'm having a very boring, lame Friday night, flipping through channels.
And I just stopped on Hannity and Colmes, a show I normally don't watch.
It seems Susan Estrich is sitting in for Colmes.
And it seems she's DRUNK off her ARSE.
All of the guests just keep looking at her and trying to hold back laughter.
Bizarre.
I wonder if Roger Ailes is amused. If I were he, I suspect Miss Estrich and the producers who are letting this go on would both be headed to CNN to look for work.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/04/04 20:38 | Other | Technorati | Comments (0)
03 June 2004
Is The Honeymoon Ending?
City Council has just been a lovefest lately, as councilmembers fall all over themselves to blast any and all proposals by the mayor through council, conservatives like Michael Berry heap praise on the man, and council overwhelmingly backs him on controversial proposals (such as opting out of the pension plan and creating a government-enforced monopoly for towing on city freeways).
But the lovefest may be ending, as City Controller Annise Parker issued budget numbers that differ significantly from the Mayor's more optimistic numbers:
Mayor Bill White's budget revenue projections are off by $18.2 million, according to Controller Annise Parker.
Parker is predicting that White's numbers are too optimistic, and she refuses to recognize his projected increase in fines and expected extra money from the Metropolitan Transit Authority, she said Wednesday.
The Mayor's office put a happy spin on everything, and so far the Mayor has been adept at smoothing over differences. But Parker could be more difficult to schmooze than most councilmembers.
Stay tuned for what could be the end of the honeymoon for our mayor.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/03/04 23:23 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (0)
That Didn't Take Long
The Cowboys picked up ancient Vinny Testaverde today, hardly any time after he became available.
He'll be a good backup, but I'd be shocked if he actually is the starter when the season comes.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/03/04 19:41 | Dallas Cowboys | Technorati | Comments (0)
Danger Train: Collision #42
The Danger Train strikes again:
A Houston man was ticketed this week after his Mercedes-Benz and a Metropolitan Transit Authority light rail train collided in the Museum District, Metro police reported.
The car was westbound on Rosedale about 7 p.m. Monday and failed to stop at the proper distance from the track along Fannin as the southbound train passed, Metro said. There were no injuries and the car was not towed, the report said.
It was the 42nd collision involving a MetroRail train since the rail line began test operations in October.
Failed to stop at the proper distance from the track?
No, kids, there are no safety design issues with this puppy.
It's all the fault of the drivers. Because METRO says so, and when Big Brother says something, we should all believe it.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/03/04 09:35 | Danger Train | Technorati | Comments (5)
02 June 2004
DEA Yahoo Group
For those of you interested in the Dead End Angels, I've just started a new DEA Yahoo Group. If you're interested in them also, you might go join.
Their new management company seems to have dropped the ball on the weekly newsletter that used to go out, so I'm hoping to get the guys to give us an occasional update. Or maybe some fans can fill us in on what they've been up to. I've been so busy with college baseball and projects that Texas music has kind of fallen by the side. But it's time to get back into the swing of things.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/02/04 21:16 | Music | Technorati | Comments (0)
Editing Tools
PSPad seems like a nifty little text editor.
I've been using the free version of NoteTab for html and such forever, but I may have to switch.
Anybody have any similarly lightweight text editors you'd recommend?
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/02/04 20:49 | Other | Technorati | Comments (3)
Confirmed
John Williams is leaving the Houston Chronicle.
Details here.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/02/04 10:46 | Houston | Technorati | Comments (3)
01 June 2004
Nucleus 3.0
Nucleus 3.0 has just been released.
Nucleus is the software that powers this site, and others I've designed. I highly recommend it.
For those of you looking to migrate from MT to something with a more reasonable user license, open-source Nucleus might just be the solution.
Here's a handy comparison chart of features of different weblog software. It's been linked all over the place recently. Nucleus compares well with anything on the list.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 06/01/04 23:46 | Web Stuff | Technorati | Comments (0)
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