Saturday, November 27, 2010
Best of LA: Three Ladies, 13 Courses, 10 Wine Pairings & 5 Hou...
Best of LA: Three Ladies, 13 Courses, 10 Wine Pairings & 5 Hou...: "We celebrated KW's 30th birthday at Chef Josiah Citrin's Melisse and spared no expense. The Carte Blanche for three, please. Wine pairings..."
The Untouchables - Los Angeles and Orange County
Ken Boothe 'Mr Rocksteady' Added To The Bill Of The London International Ska Festival
The line-up for the London International Ska Festival continues to delight and amaze! Today it was announced that the incomparable 'Mr Rocksteady' Ken Boothe has been added to bill for the 4-day festival that will take place at The Clapham Grand Theatre in London next April 21st-24th. Boothe is the first of several original Jamaican ska artists who has been announced and he joins a list of headliners that includes The English Beat featuring Dave Wakeling, James Hunter, The Ska Flames and The Dub Pistols.
Best known for his No.1 UK hit 'Everything I Own', Boothe started his musical career by winning a singing competition at the age of 8. His debut recording came in the ska-era when he teamed up with Winston 'Stranger' Cole in the duo Stranger And Ken, releasing classic cuts including 'World's Fair', 'Hush' and 'Artibella', before moving onto Clement Dodd’s Studio One label. A series of classic cuts followed including 'The Train Is Coming' (on which he was backed by Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer & BB Seaton of The Gaylads) and 'Moving Away'. In 1967 he toured the UK for the first time with fellow rocksteady legend Alton Ellis. The tour was hugely successful, with Boothe being promoted as "Mr.Rock Steady". The title was also used for his debut album the following year, which contained the unlikely but huge selling rocksteady version of 'Puppet On A String'. In 1974 Boothe teamed up with producer Lloyd Charmers, a pairing that spawned his two biggest UK hits including 'Everything I Own' (Which topped the charts for 4 weeks) and the follow-up 'Crying Over You' which reached number 11.
Here is Boothe performing 'Everything I Own' from 1974:
With the addition of Boothe, the festival now boasts a truly International line-up that highlights among the best of all three generations and waves of ska as well as some of the best ska and reggae DJ's from around the World. Tickets are now on sale at www.londoninternationalskafestival.co.uk
THE LONDON INTL SKA FESTIVAL
April 21st -April 24th
The Clapham Grand Theatre, London
KEN BOOTHE
THE ENGLISH BEAT starring DAVE WAKELING
JAMES HUNTER
THE SKA FLAMES* (Japan)
DUB PISTOLS
THE TROJANS
THE LOAFERS* (one off reformation)
HOTKNIVES* (original line up)
BIM SKALA BIM* (USA)
MAROON TOWN
INTENSIFIED
NAPOLEON SOLO (Denmark)
THE CAROLOREGIANS (Belgium)
THE AMPHETAMEANIES (Scotland)
THE SIDEWALK DOCTORS
CARTOON VIOLENCE (Wales)
JIMMY THE SQUIRREL
Confirmed DJ line up
MARK LAMARR
GAZ MAYALL / GAZS ROCKIN BLUES
WRONGTOM
THE TIGHTEN UP CREW w/ CHAMPIAN MC
JIM COX (REGGAE TRAIN)
FELIX HALL
GREEDY G
The line-up for the London International Ska Festival continues to delight and amaze! Today it was announced that the incomparable 'Mr Rocksteady' Ken Boothe has been added to bill for the 4-day festival that will take place at The Clapham Grand Theatre in London next April 21st-24th. Boothe is the first of several original Jamaican ska artists who has been announced and he joins a list of headliners that includes The English Beat featuring Dave Wakeling, James Hunter, The Ska Flames and The Dub Pistols.
Best known for his No.1 UK hit 'Everything I Own', Boothe started his musical career by winning a singing competition at the age of 8. His debut recording came in the ska-era when he teamed up with Winston 'Stranger' Cole in the duo Stranger And Ken, releasing classic cuts including 'World's Fair', 'Hush' and 'Artibella', before moving onto Clement Dodd’s Studio One label. A series of classic cuts followed including 'The Train Is Coming' (on which he was backed by Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer & BB Seaton of The Gaylads) and 'Moving Away'. In 1967 he toured the UK for the first time with fellow rocksteady legend Alton Ellis. The tour was hugely successful, with Boothe being promoted as "Mr.Rock Steady". The title was also used for his debut album the following year, which contained the unlikely but huge selling rocksteady version of 'Puppet On A String'. In 1974 Boothe teamed up with producer Lloyd Charmers, a pairing that spawned his two biggest UK hits including 'Everything I Own' (Which topped the charts for 4 weeks) and the follow-up 'Crying Over You' which reached number 11.
Here is Boothe performing 'Everything I Own' from 1974:
With the addition of Boothe, the festival now boasts a truly International line-up that highlights among the best of all three generations and waves of ska as well as some of the best ska and reggae DJ's from around the World. Tickets are now on sale at www.londoninternationalskafestival.co.uk
THE LONDON INTL SKA FESTIVAL
April 21st -April 24th
The Clapham Grand Theatre, London
KEN BOOTHE
THE ENGLISH BEAT starring DAVE WAKELING
JAMES HUNTER
THE SKA FLAMES* (Japan)
DUB PISTOLS
THE TROJANS
THE LOAFERS* (one off reformation)
HOTKNIVES* (original line up)
BIM SKALA BIM* (USA)
MAROON TOWN
INTENSIFIED
NAPOLEON SOLO (Denmark)
THE CAROLOREGIANS (Belgium)
THE AMPHETAMEANIES (Scotland)
THE SIDEWALK DOCTORS
CARTOON VIOLENCE (Wales)
JIMMY THE SQUIRREL
Confirmed DJ line up
MARK LAMARR
GAZ MAYALL / GAZS ROCKIN BLUES
WRONGTOM
THE TIGHTEN UP CREW w/ CHAMPIAN MC
JIM COX (REGGAE TRAIN)
FELIX HALL
GREEDY G
Friday, November 26, 2010
Zuma Dogg Sings Barbara Streisand
Zuma Dogg Holiday Sounds 2010 - Pt. 2: "The Way We Were" (DVD & LIVE Vegas Show Preview)
FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION: Sorry, Babs...Zuma Dogg OWNS this one, now. Not since Van Halen covered The Kink's "You Really Got Me" or Britney Spears covered Rolling Stones "Satisfaction (I Can't Get No)," has an artist taken lyrics and melody and made it their own.
Happy Holidays from the (for your consideration) falsetto of Zuma Dogg..."The Way We Were" (WARNING: Try not to get a little ferclempt.)
Original Post: http://ladailyblog.blogspot.com/2010/11/zuma-dogg-holiday-sounds-2010-pt-2-way.html
FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION: Sorry, Babs...Zuma Dogg OWNS this one, now. Not since Van Halen covered The Kink's "You Really Got Me" or Britney Spears covered Rolling Stones "Satisfaction (I Can't Get No)," has an artist taken lyrics and melody and made it their own.
Happy Holidays from the (for your consideration) falsetto of Zuma Dogg..."The Way We Were" (WARNING: Try not to get a little ferclempt.)
Original Post: http://ladailyblog.blogspot.com/2010/11/zuma-dogg-holiday-sounds-2010-pt-2-way.html
Burritos In Los Angeles
Top 10 Bean and Cheese Burritos in LA
albeas
Al and Bea's, an LA institution.
I’ve eaten a lot of bean and cheese burritos this year and if there’s one thing I’ve learned it's that there are a lot of bad bean and cheese burritos in LA. Very few places take the bean and cheese burrito seriously enough. The reason so many bean and cheese burritos suck is because most of them fall victim to the same common mistake; not enough cheese. This mistake is easily remedied – just add enough cheese. You shouldn’t have to ask for extra cheese when ordering a bean and cheese burrito just to guard yourself against getting a cheese-less burrito. Of course some bean and cheese burritos suck for other reasons like gross beans or a terrible wrap(one bite and the filling falls into your lap).
I’m not really venturing into unchartered territory here. Most of these burritos have been discussed on Chowhound. The top 3 ,and 5 out of the top 10 were mentioned by Jonathon Gold in this article. But since the Internet loves top 10 lists I thought I would give you my top 10.
10. Garduno's (2206 West Whittier Boulevard, Montebello) There’s plenty of cheese with beans that have nice flavor. The only thing you have to watch out for is the loose wrap. Half way through the burrito started to have structural issues, likely because of the thin tortilla.
008
005
Garduno's bean and cheese
9. Titos Tacos (11222 Washington Place Culver City) –The bean and cheese isn’t quite what I remember it being as a kid but it’s still one of my favorites. For a little extra flavor ask them to ladle some meat sauce inside the burrito.
010
8. Benitos (7912 Beverly Blvd. (at Fairfax)) – They really know how to make a bean and cheese burrito here. The strengths are the soft tortilla and the cheese to beans ratio. I’ve had dozens of bean and cheese burritos from Benitos (the Fairfax location) and they are very consistent.
IMG_0834
IMG_0822
7 Tonia’s(4233 Rosemead Blvd., Pico Rivera ) – Green chile and cheese- The beans are flavorful and the strips of green chile do wonders. Could have been higher if they were more consistent with the cheese to beans ratio. Sometimes there’s lots of cheese, sometimes not.
IMG_0489
IMG_0493
Tonia's bean and cheese
6 Pepe’s(511 W Valley Blvd Alhambra, CA 91803) The beans are whipped into a smooth paste and the burrito is loaded with cheese;some melted, some not. The firm wrap and the flavor of the beans is what makes the burrito so satisfying.
006
002
5. Lupe’s(Pico Rivera)(8653 Beverly Blvd Pico Rivera, CA 90660) - A tight wrap stuffed with roasted strips of green chile, pockets of half-melted cheese and some of the tastiest beans you’ll find.
IMG_0380
IMG_0379
4. Ramonas (13633 S Western Ave Gardena, CA 90249)- Lots of flavor and loaded with melted cheese. Ramona's is more well known for their frozen burritos. At the restaurant in Gardena they serve them fresh and the difference is night and day.
001
006
Ramona's bean and cheese
3. J&S (887 N Garfield Ave Montebello, CA 90640) – Sometimes it’s hard to see the cheese because it’s blended in with the beans. So what? These are probably the best beans I’ve had from a burrito stand in LA. And the kicker is this burrito is only $2.10.
IMG_0485
029
2. Lupes #2(4642 East 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90022) – Green chile or red chile and cheese. Both are excellent. The red chile is spicy and sort of overwhelms the burrito (but in a good way). The green chile and cheese is the signature burrito with strips of green chile that are married with yellow cheese and free flowing beans.
IMG_0487
IMG_0466
1. Al and Bea’s(2025 E 1st St Los Angeles, CA 90033) - Green chile and cheese. They say the secret is the lard. Whatever it is the flavor here is unmatched by any burrito stand in LA. The first time I had this burrito I came back every day for a week. The Al and Bea’s green chile bean and cheese is a masterpiece.
albeas
alandbeas
See original post: http://www.greattacohunt.com/
albeas
Al and Bea's, an LA institution.
I’ve eaten a lot of bean and cheese burritos this year and if there’s one thing I’ve learned it's that there are a lot of bad bean and cheese burritos in LA. Very few places take the bean and cheese burrito seriously enough. The reason so many bean and cheese burritos suck is because most of them fall victim to the same common mistake; not enough cheese. This mistake is easily remedied – just add enough cheese. You shouldn’t have to ask for extra cheese when ordering a bean and cheese burrito just to guard yourself against getting a cheese-less burrito. Of course some bean and cheese burritos suck for other reasons like gross beans or a terrible wrap(one bite and the filling falls into your lap).
I’m not really venturing into unchartered territory here. Most of these burritos have been discussed on Chowhound. The top 3 ,and 5 out of the top 10 were mentioned by Jonathon Gold in this article. But since the Internet loves top 10 lists I thought I would give you my top 10.
10. Garduno's (2206 West Whittier Boulevard, Montebello) There’s plenty of cheese with beans that have nice flavor. The only thing you have to watch out for is the loose wrap. Half way through the burrito started to have structural issues, likely because of the thin tortilla.
008
005
Garduno's bean and cheese
9. Titos Tacos (11222 Washington Place Culver City) –The bean and cheese isn’t quite what I remember it being as a kid but it’s still one of my favorites. For a little extra flavor ask them to ladle some meat sauce inside the burrito.
010
8. Benitos (7912 Beverly Blvd. (at Fairfax)) – They really know how to make a bean and cheese burrito here. The strengths are the soft tortilla and the cheese to beans ratio. I’ve had dozens of bean and cheese burritos from Benitos (the Fairfax location) and they are very consistent.
IMG_0834
IMG_0822
7 Tonia’s(4233 Rosemead Blvd., Pico Rivera ) – Green chile and cheese- The beans are flavorful and the strips of green chile do wonders. Could have been higher if they were more consistent with the cheese to beans ratio. Sometimes there’s lots of cheese, sometimes not.
IMG_0489
IMG_0493
Tonia's bean and cheese
6 Pepe’s(511 W Valley Blvd Alhambra, CA 91803) The beans are whipped into a smooth paste and the burrito is loaded with cheese;some melted, some not. The firm wrap and the flavor of the beans is what makes the burrito so satisfying.
006
002
5. Lupe’s(Pico Rivera)(8653 Beverly Blvd Pico Rivera, CA 90660) - A tight wrap stuffed with roasted strips of green chile, pockets of half-melted cheese and some of the tastiest beans you’ll find.
IMG_0380
IMG_0379
4. Ramonas (13633 S Western Ave Gardena, CA 90249)- Lots of flavor and loaded with melted cheese. Ramona's is more well known for their frozen burritos. At the restaurant in Gardena they serve them fresh and the difference is night and day.
001
006
Ramona's bean and cheese
3. J&S (887 N Garfield Ave Montebello, CA 90640) – Sometimes it’s hard to see the cheese because it’s blended in with the beans. So what? These are probably the best beans I’ve had from a burrito stand in LA. And the kicker is this burrito is only $2.10.
IMG_0485
029
2. Lupes #2(4642 East 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90022) – Green chile or red chile and cheese. Both are excellent. The red chile is spicy and sort of overwhelms the burrito (but in a good way). The green chile and cheese is the signature burrito with strips of green chile that are married with yellow cheese and free flowing beans.
IMG_0487
IMG_0466
1. Al and Bea’s(2025 E 1st St Los Angeles, CA 90033) - Green chile and cheese. They say the secret is the lard. Whatever it is the flavor here is unmatched by any burrito stand in LA. The first time I had this burrito I came back every day for a week. The Al and Bea’s green chile bean and cheese is a masterpiece.
albeas
alandbeas
See original post: http://www.greattacohunt.com/
California GOP Mascot
Friday, November 26, 2010
The Other White Meat
The Official California GOP Mascot.
-Is the Republican brand in Cali also headed for extinction? Steve Harmon raises the question.
-David Nolan, founder of the Libertarian Party, dead at 66.
-Sarah Palin has a busy week, as she urges that we stand with our North Korean allies, fight against the nanny state of Michelle O'bama's "Let's Move" child anti-obesity program, and beats a halibut to death on TLC's "Sarah Palin's Alaska" reality tv show. Who wouldn't want to beat a fish to death, if, after only 2 episodes, your TV show plummeted 40% in viewership?
-Father Dollar Bill, a 91 year old Catholic priest who, on Thanksgiving, has handed out money to residents of skid row for the past 32 years, continues to demonstrate that actions speak louder than words.
- A newly elected GOP-Teabagging congressman is crying about his congressional health care plan while simultaneously working to repeal Healthcare reform brought about by the Obama administration. The Democrats responded with a letter (in part);
"It is important for the American people to know whether the members of Congress and members-elect who have called for the repeal of health insurance reform are going to stand by their opposition by opting out of the care available to them at the expense of hard-working taxpayers," the Democrats wrote in their letter. "We look forward to your response in the coming days about exactly how many of the members in the Republican conference will be declining their taxpayer-supported health benefits."
-Divorced? Got kids? Not big on Jesus? Keep it on the down-low or this might happen to you.
-Black Friday has already kicked in big time at Citadel Shops in Commerce at 11pm on Thursday. Fox 11 helicopter reporter Kevin Takumi twitpics that the parking lot is full and NB/SB 5 is a mess.
Original Post: http://mayorsam.blogspot.com/2010/11/other-white-meat.html
The Other White Meat
The Official California GOP Mascot.
-Is the Republican brand in Cali also headed for extinction? Steve Harmon raises the question.
-David Nolan, founder of the Libertarian Party, dead at 66.
-Sarah Palin has a busy week, as she urges that we stand with our North Korean allies, fight against the nanny state of Michelle O'bama's "Let's Move" child anti-obesity program, and beats a halibut to death on TLC's "Sarah Palin's Alaska" reality tv show. Who wouldn't want to beat a fish to death, if, after only 2 episodes, your TV show plummeted 40% in viewership?
-Father Dollar Bill, a 91 year old Catholic priest who, on Thanksgiving, has handed out money to residents of skid row for the past 32 years, continues to demonstrate that actions speak louder than words.
- A newly elected GOP-Teabagging congressman is crying about his congressional health care plan while simultaneously working to repeal Healthcare reform brought about by the Obama administration. The Democrats responded with a letter (in part);
"It is important for the American people to know whether the members of Congress and members-elect who have called for the repeal of health insurance reform are going to stand by their opposition by opting out of the care available to them at the expense of hard-working taxpayers," the Democrats wrote in their letter. "We look forward to your response in the coming days about exactly how many of the members in the Republican conference will be declining their taxpayer-supported health benefits."
-Divorced? Got kids? Not big on Jesus? Keep it on the down-low or this might happen to you.
-Black Friday has already kicked in big time at Citadel Shops in Commerce at 11pm on Thursday. Fox 11 helicopter reporter Kevin Takumi twitpics that the parking lot is full and NB/SB 5 is a mess.
Original Post: http://mayorsam.blogspot.com/2010/11/other-white-meat.html
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Major League Baseball Player Tom Underwood Died Monday
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Tom Underwood, 56, pitched 11 seasons in the majors
Tom Underwood, who pitched 11 seasons in the majors with the Phillies, Cardinals, Blue Jays, Yankees, Athletics and Orioles passed away Monday after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 56.
Original Post: http://www.baseballhappenings.net/2010/11/tom-underwood-56-pitched-11-seasons-in.html
Tom Underwood, 56, pitched 11 seasons in the majors
Tom Underwood, who pitched 11 seasons in the majors with the Phillies, Cardinals, Blue Jays, Yankees, Athletics and Orioles passed away Monday after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 56.
Original Post: http://www.baseballhappenings.net/2010/11/tom-underwood-56-pitched-11-seasons-in.html
Disney’s Tron: Legacy - Thanksgiving
Thursday, November 25, 2010
TRON: LEGACY.
Happy Thanksgiving Day, everyone!!! Just thought I’d share these images and posters from Disney’s Tron: Legacy...which comes out in theaters next month. This movie has absolutely nothing to do with Turkey Day, but it does have something to do with how gorgeous Olivia Wilde is (I don’t know the meaning of the word 'obsession', haha), and how friggin’ awesome the visual FX will be in this sequel to the classic 1982 film...which, as an FYI, was one of the first flicks to utilize computer-generated imagery. I'm sure you wanted to know that.
TRON: LEGACY.
So anyways; enjoy your turkey, ham, mashed potatoes and shrimp cocktail...and don’t forget that 2007’s The Simpsons Movie will be broadcast on television for the first time later night (on FOX). Oh, and as for today's football schedule: The New England Patriots will play against the Detroit Lions, the New Orleans Saints will compete against the Dallas Cowboys, and the Cincinnati Bengals will take on the New York Jets. That is all.
TRON: LEGACY.
TRON: LEGACY.
Labels: Hotties, NFL
Permalink / Contact Info / Posted by McParno : 10:01 AM links to this post
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Lord Voldemort plots out his plan to kill Harry Potter in Part 1 of HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS.
HAIRY POTHEAD AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS, Part 1... In case you’re wondering why I made fun of the movie’s title like this, click on this link to a journal entry that I posted about the first Harry Potter film back in 2001. Anyways, I saw Deathly Hallows yesterday...and thought it was good for the most part. The tone of this film is COMPLETELY 180° from that of the first Potter flick, The Sorcerer's Stone, in '01. Lots of blood (and exposed muscle tissue on one of Ron Weasley's arms in one scene... Nasty) are in this movie, and don’t forget that sexual image of Harry and Hermione Granger—both essentially nude as they make out in front of Ron during the moment he destroys that locket with the Sword of Gryffindor (yes, I went on Google to make sure I spelled that name right).
The treacherous Professor Snape...in Part 1 of HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS.
Deathly Hallows had several Lord of the Rings-type moments, which in one way was a good thing (the serious undertone was a welcome change after the kiddy atmosphere in the first 6 movies...though Goblet of Fire and Order of the Phoenix were actually pretty boring because of the dark tone that started to emerge as those films went on) and in another way wasn't. There were shots after shots of Potter and his two threesome partners (err, Hermione and Ron) walking aimlessly about across a grassy/forest landscape before brooding inside that large magical tent that Hermione somehow kept inside her purse. I was waiting for Frodo and the rest of the Fellowship of the Ring to make a cameo, haha. These drawn out sulking scenes were obviously the result of dividing this story into two separate movies. David Yates (who directed this film as well as The Half-Blood Prince and Order of the Phoenix) had to find SOME way to get this Potter flick to the usual 2-½ hour running time...
Rubeus Hagrid attempts to um, fly Harry Potter to safety on Hagrid's motorcycle in Part 1 of HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS.
One thing I really liked about Deathly Hallows, however, were the large number of action scenes in this flick compared to the previous movies. The best scenes in Deathly Hallows were obviously those of Lord Voldemort and/or his minions as they hunted down Potter and company. And nice allegory to the Nazi discrimination of Jews with the whole Muggle persecution by the Ministry of Magic thing. I guess this was J.K. Rowling’s attempt at bringing substance and relevance to this first installment in the final Hairy Pothead film chapter. That is all.
Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley attempt to elude Lord Voldemort's minions in Part 1 of HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS.
Original Post: http://parman.blogspot.com/
TRON: LEGACY.
Happy Thanksgiving Day, everyone!!! Just thought I’d share these images and posters from Disney’s Tron: Legacy...which comes out in theaters next month. This movie has absolutely nothing to do with Turkey Day, but it does have something to do with how gorgeous Olivia Wilde is (I don’t know the meaning of the word 'obsession', haha), and how friggin’ awesome the visual FX will be in this sequel to the classic 1982 film...which, as an FYI, was one of the first flicks to utilize computer-generated imagery. I'm sure you wanted to know that.
TRON: LEGACY.
So anyways; enjoy your turkey, ham, mashed potatoes and shrimp cocktail...and don’t forget that 2007’s The Simpsons Movie will be broadcast on television for the first time later night (on FOX). Oh, and as for today's football schedule: The New England Patriots will play against the Detroit Lions, the New Orleans Saints will compete against the Dallas Cowboys, and the Cincinnati Bengals will take on the New York Jets. That is all.
TRON: LEGACY.
TRON: LEGACY.
Labels: Hotties, NFL
Permalink / Contact Info / Posted by McParno : 10:01 AM links to this post
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Lord Voldemort plots out his plan to kill Harry Potter in Part 1 of HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS.
HAIRY POTHEAD AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS, Part 1... In case you’re wondering why I made fun of the movie’s title like this, click on this link to a journal entry that I posted about the first Harry Potter film back in 2001. Anyways, I saw Deathly Hallows yesterday...and thought it was good for the most part. The tone of this film is COMPLETELY 180° from that of the first Potter flick, The Sorcerer's Stone, in '01. Lots of blood (and exposed muscle tissue on one of Ron Weasley's arms in one scene... Nasty) are in this movie, and don’t forget that sexual image of Harry and Hermione Granger—both essentially nude as they make out in front of Ron during the moment he destroys that locket with the Sword of Gryffindor (yes, I went on Google to make sure I spelled that name right).
The treacherous Professor Snape...in Part 1 of HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS.
Deathly Hallows had several Lord of the Rings-type moments, which in one way was a good thing (the serious undertone was a welcome change after the kiddy atmosphere in the first 6 movies...though Goblet of Fire and Order of the Phoenix were actually pretty boring because of the dark tone that started to emerge as those films went on) and in another way wasn't. There were shots after shots of Potter and his two threesome partners (err, Hermione and Ron) walking aimlessly about across a grassy/forest landscape before brooding inside that large magical tent that Hermione somehow kept inside her purse. I was waiting for Frodo and the rest of the Fellowship of the Ring to make a cameo, haha. These drawn out sulking scenes were obviously the result of dividing this story into two separate movies. David Yates (who directed this film as well as The Half-Blood Prince and Order of the Phoenix) had to find SOME way to get this Potter flick to the usual 2-½ hour running time...
Rubeus Hagrid attempts to um, fly Harry Potter to safety on Hagrid's motorcycle in Part 1 of HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS.
One thing I really liked about Deathly Hallows, however, were the large number of action scenes in this flick compared to the previous movies. The best scenes in Deathly Hallows were obviously those of Lord Voldemort and/or his minions as they hunted down Potter and company. And nice allegory to the Nazi discrimination of Jews with the whole Muggle persecution by the Ministry of Magic thing. I guess this was J.K. Rowling’s attempt at bringing substance and relevance to this first installment in the final Hairy Pothead film chapter. That is all.
Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley attempt to elude Lord Voldemort's minions in Part 1 of HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS.
Original Post: http://parman.blogspot.com/
Victoria Beckham Thanksgiving
Happy Thanksgiving!
Hi everyone!
I hope you all are having a wonderful week! It's been a bit quiet in Beckhamland lately but I have been trying to post a little bit each day.. even if it's the latest stories.
I know many of you in the US (as am I) are celebrating Thanksgiving today so I just wanted to wish you all a very happy and healthy holiday! I hope you enjoy it and are able to spend quality time with your family and friends!
Tomorrow starts the holiday season shopping madness so I hope you all are successful in your Black Friday sale hunting!
Have a great day everyone!
xo-Jenna
As a little flashback, here is a photo of the Beckhams back in 2008 when they spent the Thanksgiving holiday with the Cruise family in New York City...
Hi everyone!
I hope you all are having a wonderful week! It's been a bit quiet in Beckhamland lately but I have been trying to post a little bit each day.. even if it's the latest stories.
I know many of you in the US (as am I) are celebrating Thanksgiving today so I just wanted to wish you all a very happy and healthy holiday! I hope you enjoy it and are able to spend quality time with your family and friends!
Tomorrow starts the holiday season shopping madness so I hope you all are successful in your Black Friday sale hunting!
Have a great day everyone!
xo-Jenna
As a little flashback, here is a photo of the Beckhams back in 2008 when they spent the Thanksgiving holiday with the Cruise family in New York City...
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Medical Marijuna Dispensaries Los Angeles
Los Angeles Could Tax Medical Marijuana If Voters Approve In March
By Dennis Romero, Wed., Nov. 24 2010 @ 2:06PM
Categories: Marijuana
Share
0diggsdigg
L.A. wants to tax you, bud.
Do you want your pot taxed?
That's a question you'll be asked on the March ballot, thanks to an L.A. City Council vote Wednesday. The body is trying to raise money in an era of red ink, and taxing weed could bring an extra $3 to $5 million a year to City Hall.
The tax would charge dispensary owners $50 for every $1,000 worth of bud sold. Would that cost be passed on to you, the faithful "medical" patient? It's up to the store owners.
The office of City Attorney Carmen Trutanich has stated that taxing pot shops isn't kosher because they're supposed to be nonprofit operations under state law (and "taxing nonprofits" is somewhat of an oxymoron).
But the council, channeling the inner genius we all know is there, simply wrote around the legal reality of the situation, voting that people are simply forking over "reimbursements" to their friendly storefront supplier.
How that goes around the fact that many if not most of these places are businesses and not nonprofit collectives, as state law intended, is beyond us.
Let's just hope this tax, if you approve it, doesn't end up in court like the council's last pot-shop law.
Original Article: http://blogs.laweekly.com/informer/2010/11/medical_marijuana_tax_la.php
By Dennis Romero, Wed., Nov. 24 2010 @ 2:06PM
Categories: Marijuana
Share
0diggsdigg
L.A. wants to tax you, bud.
Do you want your pot taxed?
That's a question you'll be asked on the March ballot, thanks to an L.A. City Council vote Wednesday. The body is trying to raise money in an era of red ink, and taxing weed could bring an extra $3 to $5 million a year to City Hall.
The tax would charge dispensary owners $50 for every $1,000 worth of bud sold. Would that cost be passed on to you, the faithful "medical" patient? It's up to the store owners.
The office of City Attorney Carmen Trutanich has stated that taxing pot shops isn't kosher because they're supposed to be nonprofit operations under state law (and "taxing nonprofits" is somewhat of an oxymoron).
But the council, channeling the inner genius we all know is there, simply wrote around the legal reality of the situation, voting that people are simply forking over "reimbursements" to their friendly storefront supplier.
How that goes around the fact that many if not most of these places are businesses and not nonprofit collectives, as state law intended, is beyond us.
Let's just hope this tax, if you approve it, doesn't end up in court like the council's last pot-shop law.
Original Article: http://blogs.laweekly.com/informer/2010/11/medical_marijuana_tax_la.php
Rick Fox and Kurt Warner - Dancing With The Stars
Rick Fox And Kurt Warner Got Weird On DWTS
Hooped Up | November 24, 2010
First of all, I had no idea adidas made bedazzled shooting shirts? Last night, Dancing With The Stars aka DWTS finally went away for another season and Jennifer Grey of “Dirty Dancing” fame won the disco ball trophy in the end to your significant others delight.
Former LA Lakers player and current Eliza Dushku boggart-er Rick Fox and his partner Cheryl Burke was just one of the dance teams that lost to Jennifer Grey and her amazing 50-year old body in the end, but not before Fox let things get weird with former NFL quarterback Kurt Warner. The weirdness starts at the 2:47 mark.
Hooped Up | November 24, 2010
First of all, I had no idea adidas made bedazzled shooting shirts? Last night, Dancing With The Stars aka DWTS finally went away for another season and Jennifer Grey of “Dirty Dancing” fame won the disco ball trophy in the end to your significant others delight.
Former LA Lakers player and current Eliza Dushku boggart-er Rick Fox and his partner Cheryl Burke was just one of the dance teams that lost to Jennifer Grey and her amazing 50-year old body in the end, but not before Fox let things get weird with former NFL quarterback Kurt Warner. The weirdness starts at the 2:47 mark.
Barbara "Cutie" Cooper - 93 Year Old Blogger!
Blast From the Past
"Cutie's Theme": L.A.'s 93-Year-Old Blogger Gets Extremely High Energy New Ukelele Theme Song
By Chris Ziegler, Wed., Nov. 24 2010 @ 1:53PM
Categories: Blast From the Past, Video Clip
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Barbara "Cutie" Cooper has only been online since 2008, but she's almost certainly the city's senior blogger--93 years web-savvy and posting as one of the OGs ("Original Grandparents") at the internationally famous the-ogs.com. Cutie's husband and companion OG Pop-Pop passed last month, but Cutie blogs (and tweets) on undaunted, with granddaughter Kim Cooper promising that the-ogs.com will remain "a place where Cutie can continue to shine. She is planning to stay busy, and hopes you'll stay tuned to her ongoing adventures, wherever they may take her." the Ukulady, and it captures the spirit of Cutie and then some. (And then some more.) (And then some more for a grand finale.) Listen above but perhaps remove any dogs from the room--this song hangs out very happily in a very high register. The Ukulady will perform this song live (possibly with new verses?) this Sunday at the LAVA Salon at downtown's Clifton's Cafeteria--perfect.
Original Post Can Be Found Here: http://blogs.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2010/11/cuties_theme_las_93-year-old_b.php
"Cutie's Theme": L.A.'s 93-Year-Old Blogger Gets Extremely High Energy New Ukelele Theme Song
By Chris Ziegler, Wed., Nov. 24 2010 @ 1:53PM
Categories: Blast From the Past, Video Clip
Share
0diggsdigg
Barbara "Cutie" Cooper has only been online since 2008, but she's almost certainly the city's senior blogger--93 years web-savvy and posting as one of the OGs ("Original Grandparents") at the internationally famous the-ogs.com. Cutie's husband and companion OG Pop-Pop passed last month, but Cutie blogs (and tweets) on undaunted, with granddaughter Kim Cooper promising that the-ogs.com will remain "a place where Cutie can continue to shine. She is planning to stay busy, and hopes you'll stay tuned to her ongoing adventures, wherever they may take her." the Ukulady, and it captures the spirit of Cutie and then some. (And then some more.) (And then some more for a grand finale.) Listen above but perhaps remove any dogs from the room--this song hangs out very happily in a very high register. The Ukulady will perform this song live (possibly with new verses?) this Sunday at the LAVA Salon at downtown's Clifton's Cafeteria--perfect.
Original Post Can Be Found Here: http://blogs.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2010/11/cuties_theme_las_93-year-old_b.php
Los Angeles Dodgers Arbitration
A Brief History Of The Dodgers And Offering Arbitration
Eric_press_box_1_tiny by Eric Stephen on Nov 24, 2010 8:00 AM PST in Roster
Casey Blake, who was a free agent after the 2008 season, remains the only Type B free agent to whom the Dodgers have offered salary arbitration in the last six years.
More photos » Doug Pensinger - Getty Images
Casey Blake, who was a free agent after the 2008 season, remains the only Type B free agent to whom the Dodgers have offered salary arbitration in the last six years.
Browse more photos »
Yesterday, the Dodgers declined to offer salary arbitration to any of their Type B free agents. It was the second straight season they have declined to offer arbitration to any of their pending compensation-providing free agents (not that this season is very analogous to last season in caliber of free agents leaving). Here is a brief history of the Dodgers and their decisions on whether or not to offer arbitration to their free agents, with a look at the last six years:
2010
No (3): Vicente Padilla (B), Rod Barajas (B), Scott Podsednik (B)
2009
No (7): Randy Wolf (A), Orlando Hudson (A), Ronnie Belliard (B), Vicente Padilla (B), Jon Garland (B), Guillermo Mota (B), Will Ohman (B)
2008
Yes (3): Manny Ramirez (A), Derek Lowe (A), Casey Blake (B)
No (4): Joe Beimel (B), Jeff Kent (B), Greg Maddux (B), Brad Penny (B)
2007
No (1): Luis Gonzalez (B)
2006
Yes (1): Julio Lugo (A)
No (3): Greg Maddux (A), Eric Gagne (A), Kenny Lofton (B)
2005
Yes (1): Jeff Weaver (A)
Over the last six years, the Dodgers have offered arbitration to four of eight Type A free agents, and one of 15 Type B free agents.
Original Post Can Be Seen At: http://www.truebluela.com/
Eric_press_box_1_tiny by Eric Stephen on Nov 24, 2010 8:00 AM PST in Roster
Casey Blake, who was a free agent after the 2008 season, remains the only Type B free agent to whom the Dodgers have offered salary arbitration in the last six years.
More photos » Doug Pensinger - Getty Images
Casey Blake, who was a free agent after the 2008 season, remains the only Type B free agent to whom the Dodgers have offered salary arbitration in the last six years.
Browse more photos »
Yesterday, the Dodgers declined to offer salary arbitration to any of their Type B free agents. It was the second straight season they have declined to offer arbitration to any of their pending compensation-providing free agents (not that this season is very analogous to last season in caliber of free agents leaving). Here is a brief history of the Dodgers and their decisions on whether or not to offer arbitration to their free agents, with a look at the last six years:
2010
No (3): Vicente Padilla (B), Rod Barajas (B), Scott Podsednik (B)
2009
No (7): Randy Wolf (A), Orlando Hudson (A), Ronnie Belliard (B), Vicente Padilla (B), Jon Garland (B), Guillermo Mota (B), Will Ohman (B)
2008
Yes (3): Manny Ramirez (A), Derek Lowe (A), Casey Blake (B)
No (4): Joe Beimel (B), Jeff Kent (B), Greg Maddux (B), Brad Penny (B)
2007
No (1): Luis Gonzalez (B)
2006
Yes (1): Julio Lugo (A)
No (3): Greg Maddux (A), Eric Gagne (A), Kenny Lofton (B)
2005
Yes (1): Jeff Weaver (A)
Over the last six years, the Dodgers have offered arbitration to four of eight Type A free agents, and one of 15 Type B free agents.
Original Post Can Be Seen At: http://www.truebluela.com/
George Lopez Divorce
Comedian George Lopez's wife files for divorce
(AP) – 39 minutes ago
LOS ANGELES (AP) — George Lopez and his wife of 17 years are making their breakup official with her filing for divorce.
Ann Serrano Lopez filed her petition, citing irreconcilable difference, on Tuesday in Los Angeles.
The pair announced their breakup in September and said they would remain partners in a charitable foundation. They have a 14-year-old daughter, and Ann Lopez is seeking physical custody.
The filings do not offer any additional details about the split.
The pair were married in September 1993 and did not list a separation date.
The filing was first reported by celebrity website TMZ.
The 49-year-old comedian hosts the talkshow "Lopez Tonight" on TBS.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
Original article can be found here:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hAOtDUn1slSsg7ktlNRQt3zOC4fA?docId=a7a61ed8e4dc456b92a8ee03ed7e5a2e
(AP) – 39 minutes ago
LOS ANGELES (AP) — George Lopez and his wife of 17 years are making their breakup official with her filing for divorce.
Ann Serrano Lopez filed her petition, citing irreconcilable difference, on Tuesday in Los Angeles.
The pair announced their breakup in September and said they would remain partners in a charitable foundation. They have a 14-year-old daughter, and Ann Lopez is seeking physical custody.
The filings do not offer any additional details about the split.
The pair were married in September 1993 and did not list a separation date.
The filing was first reported by celebrity website TMZ.
The 49-year-old comedian hosts the talkshow "Lopez Tonight" on TBS.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
Original article can be found here:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hAOtDUn1slSsg7ktlNRQt3zOC4fA?docId=a7a61ed8e4dc456b92a8ee03ed7e5a2e
Ghost - Los Angeles, California, United States
Original Video can be seen at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_g9xwy7ccFY
Bike District Los Angeles - Mayor Villaraigosa Takes A Ride
Aktive takes the Mayor for a spin at CicLAvia. Photo: Midnight Ridazz.com
Orignal posting by http://la.streetsblog.org/2010/11/24/streetsblog-interview-series-aktive/#more-58619
I can’t remember the first time I met Aktive, but it seems that every time I’m in the Northeast L.A. “Bike District” I run into him. Going to an event at the Bike Oven? There’s Aktive. Getting the baby bike together at Flying Pigeon? There’s Aktive. June fundraiser? Aktive.
I can’t remember the first time I met Aktive, but it seems that every time I’m in the Northeast L.A. “Bike District” I run into him. Going to an event at the Bike Oven? There’s Aktive. Getting the baby bike together at Flying Pigeon? There’s Aktive. June fundraiser? Aktive.
In a lot of ways, the story of Jesse Ramon is emblematic of what’s been going on with the bicycle community these last several years. Ramon went from non-rider to M.O.M. Rider, to ride leader in a short span. Now, the constantly optimistic rider is part of the group that’s been trying to work with the LAPD to make Critical Mass and other group rides as safe as they should be.
That being said, I still find it hard to imagine a rider wearing a vest with a giant marijuana leaf patch sewed into the back having the respect of the LAPD team policing Critical Mass. But if you’re at the front of the ride, and Aktive isn’t sidelined with a bug as he was last month, you’ll see that the bike cops respect him almost as much as his fellow riders do.
Over the last couple weeks I had a chance to chat with Ramon/Aktive over email. Our conversation is below.
Name: My name is Jesse Ramon
Online Name: I am known as Aktive not only online, but everywhere.
Where Do You Live?: I live in Northeast Los Angeles, Cypress Park
Online Name: I am known as Aktive not only online, but everywhere.
Where Do You Live?: I live in Northeast Los Angeles, Cypress Park
Advocacy history: I dont know what kind of history you were referring to, but I am not sure I ever wanted to become a ride leader. I recently reached my one year mark of bicycle riding,. I think of myself as a newbie, but others beg to differ. I’m known to be a natural born leader with a gift of communication. I can get my point across in large crowds or one on one, which probably lead to me just jumping into some sort of leadership role as you call it. Over the last year, people have come up to me to help organize rides and before you knew it I was leading rides, from MOM RIDAZ to some FMLY rides to even LACM rides. So I guess it just honestly happened without planning! I guess it was natural occurrence. ..something that had to happen…
You mentioned you’ve only been riding for a year. What made you start? You’re such a regular on MR message boards and CM discussion, I just assumed you’d been around the block.
You mentioned you’ve only been riding for a year. What made you start? You’re such a regular on MR message boards and CM discussion, I just assumed you’d been around the block.
Yes, I’ve been riding maybe 14 months now.
What made me start is a long story. About 1 year before I started riding, I bought a cheap ass magna from my uncle. Shortly after I got it, I had surgery and was basically bed ridden about 3 weeks. With recovery and life happening I totally forgot about the bike…lost the passion one might say.
At the time my pops was working as building maintenance guy and noticed an awesome hybrid bike tied to the banister, after 4 weeks no one touched the bike and he was ordered to cut the chain and get rid of it. So being the beaners we are, he brought it home.
Automatically I liked it. 21 speeds. disc brakes, front shocks. san marcos saddle. 29inch tires. I was flying on that. In the beginning, I thought it was amazing to travel from Highland Park to the fountain at Los Feliz. As a newbie, that was a mission of its own. Now I find myself riding out to Orange County or Riverside County from Highland Park.
The rest is living history.
Now that you’re a veteran rider, what are your impressions of the group ride scene, both in NELA and throughout the city?
Veteran rider? Me? Ha Ha…sounds weird.
My impression of group ride scenes is very confusing. There are times when I live for the group riding scene. Whether being MOM RIDAZ or LACM or FMLY or GLOW, they are all fun in their own right. The social aspect of it. The solidarity amongst ridaz, especially when gear support is requested. The way we look out for each other. Or, just exploring your city with a new group of potential friends. It’s exciting. Now i find myself organizing MOM/ NELA MOM Ridez, FMLY EASTSIDE rides, and helping steer LACM in a positive direction. So, I still have the passion for the group rides
But there are a few exceptions out there. I cannot stand destructive disrespectful rides. Where trash is left all over the route/stops. Rides that don’t do a thing with stealing and vandalism. There are even rides I’ve seen that lead you into the most dangerous of situations whether be it a bad area to be in or just simply messing with the wrong person. Granted it may not be the ride itself, just a bunch of knuckleheads out to ruin everyone’s night by just fucking up.
That isn’t cool. When shit like that happens, I tend to drop rides. If nothing catches my attention on the calendars on numerous sites, I tend to pick up the phone and roll with a small group of ridaz and just ride the night or day away.
NELA is an area rich in culture from all over. Yet, the biking scene here is very minimal with the exception of the monthly Smoke N’ Art ride.. lol. I mean Spoke n Art Ride. The Bike Oven sits right in the middle, and I see the biking scene here slowly but surely growing; which is why I have started the NELA MOM RIDAZ chapter. Trying to grow here and get this corner of our city bumping with aktivity and life… subsequently helping build the NELA bicycle infrastructure for all of us to enjoy!
This is the same thing happening in all corners of our county. Bikerowave, Bike Kitchen, the Hub and the others popping up irregularly. One day, I see the whole LA scene changing from cars to bikes, just watch!.. We can do it. Smoke enough hash, and imagine it. If we all work together, ALL IS POSSIBLE.
Midnight Ridazz profile picture
So how did you get involved as a “ride leader” for Critical Mass? It’s sort of an odd match to see a guy with a MOM Ridazz vest standing on the “stage” at Wilshire/Western with Sgt. Krumer.
To be honest, it just happened. I have been helping keep things in order and what not during LACM, and I am just guessing, but my assertiveness and the manner in which I deal with the public may have lead to that.
Because I really don’t know how I became part of leadership for LACM. I was already getting ready to end my attendance at LACM due to all the chaos that had been happening. I wasn’t there for the infamous LACM where the video showed LAPD officer kicking that cyclist of his bike, but shortly after that I started hearing rumors that LAPD would be at the following LACM, so my interest was reignited.
I showed up, and somehow, someway, I was asked to take the lead. The next month, I showed up right at take off time and Alex Thompson shouts at me, ” Yo, aktive, get upfront and lead it again!” I had actually just met Thompson the previous month when LAPD showed up for the first month to accompany us.
Thompson introduced himself to me and I did the same he complimented the “rapport I have with the cyclist” and “how they really listen to my directions.” He also informed me of the meetings they had been having with LAPD and what not, told me some new rules I should familiarize myself with like “no more circles of death.”
Before you knew it, month after month, I have been asked either by other leaders or LAPD to just hop in the front and work with the officers like I have been.
And o.m.g.. you are so right about how odd it is to see my MOM RIDAZ PATCH with the big pot leaf in the middle of a briefing of LAPD contingency.
It trips me out, and I love how so many now have convinced themselves that I’m a narc or a cop.. SO NOT TRUE.
At CicLAvia, how did you get the Mayor in the pedicab?
CicLAvia.. that was funny. Everyone who knows me knows how I really dislike mayor Villababozo. But when there is a photo-op to take advantage of, I’m there. LOL
I simply pulled up to him in the peddicab and yelled, “Mayor, hop in! PHOTO-OP! And once that lime light hog heard “photo-op,” he didn’t’ hesitate to jump in for a ride and a chance to be photographed in the cab…
Subsequently people told me that he was enjoying himself until he noticed the huge marijuana leaf in front of him
Ja ha ha. All of a sudden his expression changed to an “oh shit!” and jumped off. It was quick, but the memories, and photographs will never be lost..’
Our last question is always the same. If you could wave a magic wand and change one thing about transportation in Los Angeles, what would it be?
First off it would be nice for all public transportation services to accommodate bicycles. In Germany the light rail system has a sort of a corral in the front or rear of the train for cyclists to place their bikes in a manner that passengers aren’t bothered by bikes nor does it pose a safety issue.
If not that, I’d love to see a state of the art bicycle infrastructure in L.A. County. One where cyclists are away from speeding drivers, Where we have some sort of buffer zone free of hazards such as vehicles pulling out of parking spaces or car doors swinging open to unsuspecting Ridaz. An infrastructure where we’d have a sort of bike way unaffected by intersection or traffic lights and Ridaz could freely ride and not lose momentum or tire out as much due to unnecessary stopping. Sort of a bicycle freeway. Regularly maintained and free of potholes and oil spots usually caused by vehicles and the weight associated with cars n trucks. Also associated with vehicles is debris left behind after accidents such as broken glass and metal or plastic objects that can cause accidents or equipment malfunction.
Hubs where Ridaz can safely lock up their bikes if they needed. And just like the freeways have service patrol tow trucks, we could have a service were technicians can assist stranded cyclists with minor repairs such as flats, snapped brake cables, broken chains …things of the such. The possibilities are endless for a bicycle infrastructure …but first we must adopt a workable and practical bike plan without cutting corners at the expense of Ridaz safety.
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