text:
Shallow, superficial, self-involved, sprawling, segregated, smoggy, history-free and earthquake-prone, nipped and tucked and lifted and peeled, the place where the only cultural advantage is that you can make a right turn on a red light….
Seasoned Angelenos have heard it all before, so you might as well get all that off your chest before you settle into what is, for most of us, a pretty good SoCal life. There's the weather: Year-round, this is one of the most temperate spots on the globe, thanks in part to some shady water deals a century ago that keep this former desert lush with green, and thanks in great part to a natural body of water, the Pacific Ocean, which requires no such diversion to give Angelenos—particularly those west of Robertson Boulevard—a literal breath of fresh air. And for all the legitimate griping about the freeway sprawl and the historical lack of sensible transit planning, the independence and freedom afforded by the automobile still makes it the most popular way to get around (and not just here in L.A., all right? Show me an American downtown and I'll show you a ring of plush, sprawling suburbs connected by highways).
And what a place to get around: An hour's drive from Downtown L.A. can put you on the ritzy beaches of Malibu, or the snowy peak of Mt. Baldy, or Orange County's suburban übermall, South Coast Plaza. Within a reasonable drive from just about anywhere in L.A. are mountains to hike, waves to surf, world-class concerts and theatre to catch, architecture and museums to take in, international cuisine to sample, walking nightlife districts to prowl. On a typical drive through the ex-urbs and mini-malls, industrial parks and tree-lined boulevards, you might see a coyote and a cross-dresser, a stretch limo and a homeless man with a hand-lettered sign. You'll see folks of all races, sometimes even mixing with each other.
It can all be a little overwhelming—which is maybe why we who live here eventually learn to weave our way through the traffic snarls to more welcoming places, whether it's an apartment, a theatre, a yoga class, a pool hall, an AA meeting, a church. Community is possible in this spread-out industry town—indeed, in this "city" of endless adjacent suburbs, it's not that hard to develop an authentic sense of the small-town neighborhood. If New York is the city that never sleeps, L.A. is the place where sleepy side streets feed straight to the fast-lane freeway entrance, and vice versa.
The challenges that face those who pour into the city every day seeking work in the region's most durable homegrown industry are much the same as those that face any new Angeleno. To help you get oriented, we offer this introductory primer to life in L.A., with actor- and performer-directed advice where applicable.
Finding A Place
Where do you want to live? Near the studios, near the beach—near the freeway so you can make a quick getaway? L.A. is such a vast territory it helps to narrow your search to a few areas you feel are the most attractive, convenient, and/or affordable (see "Neighborhood Guide" for further recommendations on where to live, with complete map on page 17-A). For specific statistics on crime, median income, etc., refer to www.losangelesalmanac .com. This site breaks down most of L.A., neighborhood by neighborhood, and contains lots of useful information.
The Los Angeles Times (www.latimes .com/classified/rentals) and The Recycler, a cheap weekly with copious classified listings available at most local convenience stores, can be good places to start looking for rental listings—though because the papers are widely distributed, apartments listed in them go quickly. If you see something that interests you in the paper, call immediately and set up an appointment to look at the place at your earliest opportunity. Chances are, the apartment will be rented by the end of the week, if not within a few days.
Another popular option is to register with a rental listing service such as Renttimes (www.renttimes.com, $49 for three months) or Westside Rental Connection (www.westsiderentals.com, $60 for two months), which provide you with a wealth of decent listings for the fee (see listing on this page). If you don't find a rental from the list you bought, or if you rent from another source, the service is required by law to return all but $25 of the fee you paid, as long as you request the refund via registered mail within 10 days of the end of the contract. Lastly, driving around an area you like may be time-consuming, but it is another great way to seek out apartments that may not yet be flocked with potential tenants.
You will probably be required to fill out a rental application with your personal information, current and past employers and landlords, Social Security number, bank account numbers (place a password on your bank account if you don't want the landlord snooping), and credit account numbers for credit reference. You may also be required to provide proof of monthly income or other information that shows your ability to pay rent. The landlord may charge an application-screening fee of up to $30 to cover the cost of checking your information. If the landlord obtains your credit report, he or she must give you a copy if you request it.
You will then enter into either a periodic rental agreement (month-to-month, for example) or a lease (for six or 12 months, for example). In the case of a lease, you are legally required to make rent payments until your lease expires. The benefit of a lease is that the landlord cannot raise your rent while the lease is in effect, and you cannot be asked to leave except for reasons such as damaging the property or failing to pay rent.
It is also important to find out whether the city in which you wish to rent has a rent control ordinance (Los Angeles does) and what the specifics of that ordinance are. Some cities, for example, allow the landlord to increase the rent by only a certain percent each year and limit the landlord's ability to evict tenants. A great resource for more information on renting apartments is The California Tenants Handbook, published by the state's Department of Consumer Affairs. Call (800) 952-5210, or view the text online at www.dca.ca.gov/legal/landlordbook.
Because average rent for a one-bedroom in L.A. starts at around $750, opting for a roommate may be the best way to find an apartment in a great area at the most affordable price, and chances are it will already be semi-furnished. If you know from the get-go that this is the path for you, and you aren't arriving in L.A. with a living companion in tow, you might want to start by looking for someone who already has a place to share.
If you are arriving here as a complete stranger in a strange land, a number of good resources can help match you up with a sane and considerate human being within a few weeks. Services like Roommate Matchers (www.roommatematchers.com) will charge you $49 for three months and can provide you with profiles and sometimes photos of people with rooms to rent or people looking for apartments.
You can also check newspapers, such as BSW, and bulletin boards, such as the one at Actor's Equity Association (5757 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 1, L.A.), or place your own attractive flier in a well-trafficked coffeehouse.
It's also important to remember that, like many big cities in the United States, Los Angeles unfortunately has its share of crime. When choosing a place to live, it's a good idea to take a good look at the neighborhood, especially at night. Police helicopters circling the area are usually a sign that there are problems, such as gang activity. Also observe whether most of the houses/apartment buildings have bars over the windows. Chances are that burglaries and intrusions are a problem in this area. No matter where you live, you might also consider paying for renter's insurance to protect yourself from loss or damage from theft, fire, or natural disaster.
If you are very concerned about safety, you might consider living in the second story or higher of a building. You might also look for a building that has security doors at the entrance and underground parking or assigned parking. Parking can be a real problem in some areas of Los Angeles, especially in Venice, Hollywood, West Hollywood, and the Fairfax District, where many structures do not have off-street parking. If you are concerned about walking a long distance from your car to your apartment at night, you might look elsewhere to live or make sure you get an apartment with an assigned parking space.
Car theft and vandalism are particularly rampant in this city and can happen just about anywhere. The least expensive and easiest way to prevent someone from stealing your automobile is to get the Club, a locked metal device that fits over your steering wheel when you are parked. It's available in most automotive stores for around $50. Likewise if you have a bicycle or motorcycle, always lock it up and use an excellent lock—not a chain metal one, which thieves can easily break.
None of these tips are meant to scare you off, but if you're going to call L.A. your home, you need to be aware of the forms that criminal activity can take here—and of the common-sense precautions you can take to lessen your chances of becoming a statistic.
Craig's List www.craigslist.org, an excellent free online bulletin board
Roommate Access www.roommateaccess .com, paid service, nationwide
Roommate Matchers www.roommatematchers.com, (323) 653-7666, online and in-person service, $19
www.roommateclick.com free online search; contact services, $5.95-99.95
Easy Roommate www.easyroommate.com, online service, $29-49
Yahoo Classifieds www.yahoo.com, free online service
Rental Times www.renttimes.com or (323) 653-7666, online and in-person listing service
Apartment Source www.apartmentsource.com, (800) 313-9738, free online search; contact services, $7.95-79.95
Westside Rental Connection www.westsiderentals.com, (800) 736-8005, online and in-person service
Homestore.com www.homestore.com, free online listing service
LA Homefinders.com www.lahomefinders.com, online listing service, $49.95
www.apartments.com free online search service
Yahoo Classifieds www.yahoo.com, free online service
Pets and People Homefinders www.pets-people.com, (310) 398-6683, online and in-person service for pet-friendly rentals, $71
Pets R Welcome www.petsrwelcome.com, online service for pet-friendly rentals, $50.
Getting Around
Los Angeles isn't really a city but a string of interconnected city centers and suburbs, so there's no practical way to negotiate its terrain without a set of wheels. We've known a few resourceful actors, usually in a temporary crisis, who've managed to piece together their very own transportation system that included buses, bicycles, or bummed rides. But this town is crazy-making enough with a car, let alone without one. Bottom line: You won't get far here without a car.
Yes, L.A. has a functioning bus system that's relatively safe, clean, affordable, and more or less reliable, and it's good for work commutes if you've got regular hours and a lot of reading to do. Single fare is $1.35, plus 25 cents per transfer; a typical route will require at least one transfer, so carrying around exact change for $1.60 is advisable; there's a special night fare of 75 cents, 9 p.m.-5 a.m. Certain freeway express bus zones charge an extra fare, so be prepared with extra cash and change. If you're taking the bus regularly, a pass is a good money-saving option; weekly, semi-monthly, and monthly passes are available. For information, check out www.mta.net, or call (213) 626-4455 for route information.
And while you may have heard about L.A.'s new subway "system," don't count on Metro Rail's anemic routes to solve your practical transportation needs. With just 60 stops—in places like North Hollywood, Universal City, Hollywood, Downtown L.A., East L.A., South L.A., and Long Beach—the subway makes a nice outing for a leisurely urban day trip, but that's it. Rates are the same as for buses.
If you're coming to L.A. from out of state, it's best to come here with a reliable car, as it's typically going to be cheaper to buy in most other states, not least because of the lower sales tax. And don't hesitate to get a California driver's license and register the vehicle here; the law gives you 10 days to do the former, 20 days to do the latter. We've heard too many stories of folks keeping their out-of-state plates for months, even years, often under a parent's name, and then getting hit with a pricey ticket when the ruse is discovered in a routine traffic stop or fender-bender—a fine that is then added to your overdue state registration fee.
The license will cost you $12; registration will vary, based on the age and value of the car, anywhere from $30 to $300. A smog check will be required, which can run as much as $90—though if you have an older car, you may be in for some repairs to get up to California emissions standards. Some people have the title of the car made out as a "gift"—typically your parents can help you with this—worth a mere few thousand dollars. This can lower the car's valuation in the eyes of the state, and thus make the registration fee a fraction of what it might be otherwise. Registration and license are available through the Department of Motor Vehicles; for locations and information, call (800) 777-0133 or visit www.dmv.ca.gov.
California law also requires that you have a certain minimum level of car insurance coverage, and depending on where you live, not to mention your age and driving record, your insurance payments can add up to a big chunk of change—some people pay more for insurance than they do in car payments.
If you're looking for a car in Los Angeles, a good place to start is with websites such as www.lacarguy.com, www.carsdirect.com, etc. and in The Recycler. But there's no getting around the legwork; you'll need to give yourself a few weeks to shop and/or check out cars from private owners. If you're a member of AAA, you can take advantage of a car-buying program in which good deals are recommended at AAA-approved used-car dealerships; call (800) 709-7222.
Once you're behind the wheel, the adventure begins. The first thing you must do is drive to a local bookstore and buy a Thomas Guide. This indispensable, almost sacred text will run you $20 for L.A. County, closer to $30 to add a county (L.A. plus Orange, or L.A. plus Ventura). Trust us on this one: Yes, Internet maps and directions are a great innovation, but we still swear by the Thomas Guide for the most thorough, reliable information.
Know that many L.A. drivers are aggressive and self-centered, and that when it rains they drive even more poorly. It behooves new arrivals to remember their high school courses in defensive driving and to avoid distractions at the wheel—pull over if you need to use that cellphone, please!
Getting By
Signing up with a temp agency (see accompanying list on page 8-A) is always a good way to get placed in entertainment offices, from the studios to agents, managers, or publicists. It's an opportunity to observe the business firsthand. Another benefit to temp work is the flexible schedule: You can work around classes and auditions. Many temp agencies in this town are actor-friendly. Some require an initial registration fee, which you usually make back with your first job, which is most often guaranteed. It's a good idea to register with multiple companies, as many temp jobs last only a few days.
Other entry-level industry jobs include being a reader in a casting office, where you read the lines opposite the actor auditioning. You'll probably need to know someone in the casting office to get a plum job like this. But if you're lucky you'll get to witness the competition and see what makes casting directors tick.
If you're a fast reader (in the silent sense), you can consider doing coverage for a production company as a script reader. You would be assigned to read manuscripts and make critical comments for use by the company's development department. This is a great job with a flexible work-at-home schedule, ideal for aspiring screenwriters to get an idea of scripts that are circulating. The only catch is that it can be very hard to land a paid position starting out; you may have to do it for free for a while—it's a little like acting that way. The best way to get into this field is to contact local film production companies—listed in such guides as LA 411 and Creative Directory—and local agencies to see if they need intern or office help in their development or literary departments. Smart interns may find themselves taking some reading material home on weekends, and one thing leads to the next.
You could also get on a set by serving as a production assistant. The pay isn't great and the work can be strenuous and plebeian, but what better way to gain some on-set savvy? Production assistant positions vary from running for coffee to assisting the production in a significant way; it depends on the production and the people in charge. However, it's rare that any production company won't be generous to an individual who has a calm, focused attitude and works hard. You can find job notices for P.A.s in the Casting section of BSW every week.
But if you need to make some serious money, and the first-look deal with Paramount just hasn't come together like you thought, live the Hollywood cliché and wait tables. Just by going to a few nice restaurants in town, you'll see that the main criterion for getting a waitering job is much like that of snagging an acting gig: your look. You can more easily find work as a waiter if you're neat and attractive. While experience helps, it doesn't seem to be top priority in all cases. So if you can get the work, why not get it at a restaurant near a studio or industry hangout? Of course those spots, like a series regular on a sitcom, are highly sought-after and competitive. You could also check hotels and caterers who hire waiters for industry banquets.
Likewise, tending bar, which can also be quite lucrative, is a tough nut to crack in L.A. First, there just aren't as many bars here, compared with, say, New York. Starbucks Coffee is the closest L.A. equivalent, however, and it's got lots of positions to fill. Second, it seems that you have to know someone to recommend you to get a job behind the bar—in that sense it's like getting an agent or getting a read with a casting director. If you have no experience or contacts at bars already, you might consider taking a class. A list of local bartending schools is available at www.rwm.org/ rwm/cal_bat.html. Many of the schools will help you find work as a bartender in hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, and industry events, including awards banquets.
Another job that can mesh with an actor's often unpredictable schedule is substitute teaching, which offers flexibility and variety on a long- or short-term basis. A teaching credential is not necessary; however, the L.A. Unified School District requires prospective substitute teachers to enroll in the 40-hour Teacher Training Academy. Call (800) 832-2452 or visit www.lausd.k12.ca.us for more information.
Finally, a segment of L.A.'s population works as full-time extras. You can make decent money regularly appearing as a background performer in films, television, and commercials. It's even (for the time being) a way to get into the Screen Actors Guild. Because extras work necessitates its own community, there are some important things to remember. This is the only area of the industry in which an initial registration fee to be considered for parts is condoned. You register with extras casting companies, and they keep your picture on file and hire you whenever your look is appropriate for a project they are casting. There are also calling services, which act as agents in seeking extras work for you. These services generally require a monthly fee, and while they're by no means necessary for finding extras work, some extras casting directors do rely on them to book extras. Back Stage West also lists many calls for extras on major projects, as well as smaller productions, for which there is no fee to register or submit.
You don't need a headshot or an extensive resumé to get extras work. All you need are your measurements and a 3x5 color photo of yourself against a plain white background. It doesn't have to be professional, only a simple snapshot accurately representing how you look now—so don't fall for photographers telling you that you need expensive headshots to do background work. Some extras companies will take a photo, usually digital or Polaroid, for a minor fee; it really shouldn't be more than $20-25 for commercials.
The industry standard registration fee for legitimate extras casting companies is less than $25. This cost usually includes the photo fee because SAG extras cannot be charged any registration fees to get work, only a photo fee. There are numerous companies claiming to cast extras that charge exorbitant fees, list false credits, and rarely or never call you for work though they claim to guarantee work. These are generally the companies advertising in general newspapers with a wide readership or posting fliers on telephone polls with a phone number for you to tear off. These companies make a lot of promises and never deliver.
There are many things to know about being a background performer—or "atmosphere," as extras are sometimes called—and many things to avoid to keep from being scammed, such as knowing that anyone who will sell you SAG vouchers is not legitimate. The most comprehensive resource and guide to the extras community is the annual publication Extra Work for Brain Surgeons (Hollywood OS, $27.50); also worth a look is Back to One: The Movie Extras Guidebook (Back To One Publications, $24.95). Another good resource guide is the book Survival Jobs: 154 Ways To Make Money While Pursuing Your Dreams, by Deborah Jacobson (Bantam Doubleday Dell Pub, $19).
If you're interested in doing extras work, you should know that it is not very glamorous. Background performers are often treated like cattle. The hours can be long. The pay is not very good—usually minimum wage for non-union extras. While an extra occasionally gets upgraded to a speaking role—which is rare but does happen—you are probably not going to get "discovered" by being an extra. It is also not recommended that you include your background performances on your resumé as you build your acting career. Theatrical and commercial agents and casting directors are not going to be impressed by such credits; training and speaking roles are what count as you progress. However, being an extra affords an aspiring actor a quick education in on-set procedure and protocol.
Having Fun
Once you've sorted out the challenges of living here, you'll want to take advantage of the perks of living here, too. Don't believe the hype: Los Angeles is a world cultural center, a bona fide international mecca for artists, intellectuals, philanthropists, and assorted movers and shakers—and not only those attracted by, or springing from, the town's dominant film/TV industry. Theatre and the performing arts thrive here, as does a rich nightlife of live music, restaurants for every palate, and hopping dance clubs. There are world-class museums, architectural tours, botanical gardens, and hiking clubs. And for the inveterate shopper, L.A. has no shortage of malls, specialty boutiques, couture showrooms, used record stores, bookstores, or thrift shops.
There isn't room to give a complete list of options. For listings of local entertainment events, nothing beats the L.A. Weekly (free, Thursdays, distributed citywide; the website, www.laweekly.com, is not as handy as having a copy around). The L.A. Times Thursday weekend edition has a good supplement, too. But these will only give you a weekly snapshot of events; for newcomers looking for a bigger picture, we've selected our own eclectic, subjective list of must-do-at-least-once L.A. activities, locales, and diversions:
Hollywood Bowl
The world's greatest outdoor concert venue has cheap seats—as low as $1, ladies and gentlemen—and you can bring a picnic in a cooler, like a sporting event. Upcoming concerts include the L.A. Philharmonic, conducted by the boyish Esa-Pekka Salonen, doing Stravinsky, Sibelius, and Debussy's La Mer (July 24); the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, led by the voluble John Mauceri, joining Noche Flamenco for a spectactular "España! with Fireworks" (July 25-27); an evening with soprano Sumi Jo and the L.A. Philharmonic (July 29, 31); "The Movie Music of Spike Lee and Terence Blanchard," hosted by Lee and featuring Blanchard, Chaka Khan, and Dianne Reeves (July 30); a Tchaikovsky fireworks spectacular with the L.A. Phil (Aug. 1-2); a concert reading of My Fair Lady with John Lithgow, Melissa Errico, and Roger Daltrey (Aug. 3); Jack Johnson and Ben Harper (Aug. 4), and daytime "SummerSounds" concerts of international music (weekdays through August). For more info, check out www.hollywoodbowl.org.
New Beverly Cinema
You can rent videos any night of the week. To see vintage and contemporary film classics on the big screen, check out this indispensable revival house, right in the center of town, where you can catch a double feature for the friendly price of $5. Coming up: A Louise Brooks double feature, Pandora's Box and Diary of a Lost Girl (July 23-24); Fellini's Roma and Satyricon (July 27-29); The Dancer Upstairs and Missing (July 30-31); Roman Holiday and Breakfast at Tiffany's (Aug. 1-2); Scarface and Carlito's Way (Aug. 3-5); Raising Victor Vargas and Sweet Sixteen (Aug. 6-7); Dr. Strangelove and Lolita (Aug. 8-9); Valley Girl and Fast Times at Ridgemont High (Aug. 10-12); Touch of Evil and The Lady From Shanghai (Aug. 13-14). For more listings, check out www.michaelwilliams.com/beverlycinema, or call (323) 938-4038. 7165 Beverly Blvd., L.A.
The Huntington
One of the Southland's local treasures, a lush botanical garden and a first-class museum (and a private research library). In the tony Pasadena-adjacent neighborhood of San Marino, 1151 Oxford Rd. (626) 405-2100. Admission: $12.50. (For another botanical option, try Gardens of the World, a 4.5-acre cultural park featuring Japanese, English, French, and Italian gardens. 2001 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. (805) 557-1135.)
The Getty
But of course—this internationally renowned destination, nestled in the mountains near the intersection of the 405 and the 10 freeways, is free (parking is $5), and is worth the visit just for the view of the city from Richard Meier's sleek marble campus, and for a stop in Robert Irwin's peculiar garden, no matter what exhibits are up (right now it's 1960s photographs by Winogrand, Eggleston, and Arbus, and a must-see show of illuminated manuscripts from the Renaissance). 1200 Getty Center Dr. (310) 440-7300. www.getty.edu.
Gene Autry Western Heritage Museum
Two museums for the price of one ($7.50 admission), with comprehensive exhibits from the real West and the showbiz West, from Buffalo Bill Cody to Clint Eastwood. 4700 Western Heritage Way. (323) 667-2000. www.autry-museum.org.
The Museum of Jurassic Technology
A small and beguiling meta-museum run by artists, with a mix of authentic and parodic exhibits that reward bemused attention. $4. 9341 Venice Blvd., Culver City. (310) 836-6131. www.mjt.org.
Watts Towers
Arguably L.A.'s most strange, wondrous, and inspiring indigenous monument, this homemade assemblage of reinforced concrete and colorful found objects was the life's work of Simon "Sam" Rodia, an Italian bricklayer who spent his off hours constructing this Gaudi-esque icon of outsider art. Spend as much time as you can here; you'll start to feel you're visiting the last outpost of a lost kingdom, or your money back (admission is $5). 1727 E. 107th St., Watts. Call (213) 847-4646 for hours.
Lake Shrine
The full name of this idyllic curiosity is "the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake & Shrine," created in the 1950s by the Indian guru Paramahansa Yogananda. It's got a meditation chapel with a Dutch windmill, an urn containing ashes of Mahatma Gandhi, and plenty of leafy walking paths to take your own spiritual journey (really—these folks leave you alone, unlike the Scientologists). 17190 Sunset Blvd., Pacific Palisades. (310) 454-4114.
Sunset Junction Street Fair
Your chance to check out L.A.'s hippest neighborhood on its hottest weekend is coming up, Aug. 23-24 in Silverlake. Sunset Boulevard between the 3600 and 4200 blocks is shut down for two days, and admission is $7. There are rides, vendors, food, and world-class live music, this year's roster including Circle Jerks, Guided by Voices, Dandy Warhols, Isaac Hayes, Phoebe Snow, and Roger Daltrey. (323) 661-7771.
Pasadena City College Swap Meet
There are several others—one at the Rose Bowl, one at Fairfax and Melrose—but this is the one to see. It's the first Sunday of every month, as early as you can get there, at 1570 E. Colorado Blvd. in Pasadena (cross street is Allen).
Hollywood Farmer's Market
Every Sunday morning, from early morning through the afternoon, the blocks between Vine and Ivar, Sunset and Hollywood Boulevards, host this most casual and freewheeling of the farmer's markets. Good fresh produce and a distinct patchouli vibe prevail.
West Hollywood Halloween Parade
Santa Monica Boulevard between La Cienega and Doheny Drive—unofficially "boy's town"—shuts down on Oct. 31 for an extravaganza of inspired plumery. A must-see, whether you're gay or straight.
Edge of the World Theatre Festival
Each fall L.A.'s small, scrappy, "edgy" theatres mount a two-week festival of full-lengths, one-acts, solo shows, and special performance events. The next one will be held all over town, Oct. 4-19. www.edgeoftheworld.org.
Sunset Drive
No, we're not talking about a time of day (though the smog-enhanced sunsets can be gorgeous—rumor is a particularly colorful evening sky inspired Jimi Hendrix to write "Purple Haze"). We're talking about the best way to get a sense of the expanse and variety of Los Angeles: by following a single street, Sunset Boulevard, from Downtown to the sea. Start at historic Olvera Street (where it's technically called Cesar Chavez Boulevard) and head West, through Echo Park, Silverlake, Hollywood, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, and finally, the beaches of Malibu (where Gladstone's Seafood isn't a bad stop). In one afternoon you'll get a powerful cross section of this city's huge economic, ethnic, and architectural diversity.
Just drive west and you'll hit one—but if you want to get more specific than that, the most popular L.A. outlets are zany Venice Beach (take Venice Boulevard to the end and look for parking), and the charming mini-theme park of Santa Monica Pier (two blocks south of Santa Monica Boulevard at corner of Ocean Avenue and Colorado Boulevard) Further north is the beautiful Will Rogers State Park (Pacific Coast Highway near its intersection with Temescal Canyon Road).
There's no Central Park here, but there is the sprawling Griffith Park, one of the largest anywhere, that straddles the Hollywood Hills from Los Feliz to Burbank. There are too many activities and amenities to list here; check out the website www.ci.la.ca.us/RAP/grifmet/griffith.htm (catchy name, huh?). Elysian Park, near Dodger Stadium, provides excellent walking trails and picnic areas. And Runyon Canyon, on a steep gorge north of Franklin Avenue (at Fuller), offers some of the best city views around.
Walking Districts
Missing Persons was wrong: A lot of people walk in L.A. That is to say, they drive to a parking structure, get out of their cars, and then walk around. Usually you can build an entire night or shopping day around these locations. There's Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica (Third Street between Wilshire and Broadway), Old Town Pasadena (on and around Colorado between Marengo and Pasadena), Westwood (seen better days, but still a respectable college-adjacent hang, off Wilshire Boulevard south of the UCLA campus), Universal Citywalk (a faux "street," but hey, the kids love it, and it has its own exit off the 101), West Hollywood (basically Santa Monica and Sunset Boulevards between La Brea and La Cienega), and, perhaps most gratifying, the city's newly beating heart, Hollywood (fanning out from the intersection of Hollywood and Highland, up and down Vine, Cahuenga, Wilcox, etc.) Making strides as more family-oriented destinations are downtown Burbank (roughly between 1st and 3rd Street north of the 5 Freeway) and downtown Glendale (Brand Boulevard between Colorado and the 134 freeway). Smaller and quainter is Larchmont, a stretch of shops in Hancock Park (on Larchmont between Beverly and 3rd Street). Another underrated redeveloped center is downtown Long Beach (take that 710 to the end).
Downtown L.A.
Time was this wasn't much worth the visit. But there are a variety of must-see places here, which we've broken down into a few areas: For the BUNKER HILL walking tour, you can start at Temple and Grand for a look at the stark new Cathedral; walk down Grand toward the silver shiny building and take in Frank Gehry's stunning new Disney Hall, at the corner of First; keep going south on Grand and check out the Museum of Contemporary Art (current exhibition is selections from the permanent collection); go still farther south and you can stop for a rest at the Watercourt. Farther south, down the hill to Fifth Street, you'll hit the Biltmore to your right—check out the architecture and the high tea there—and the Central Library to your right. Walk northwest to Fifth and Figueroa and check out the Bonaventure Hotel, another popular film location with a rotating restaurant at the top. For the LITTLE TOKYO walking tour, you can start at the corner of 1st Street and Los Angeles and head East. There are Japanese restaurants for every budget and taste along here and in Japanese Village Plaza; we recommend Shabu Shabu and, for authentic karaoke, the venerable Oiwake. The Japanese American National Museum is worth a look, as is the large satellite campus of MOCA, the Geffen Contemporary. When you hit Alameda, you're near the border of the artist loft district, which may be why the hangout/restaurant Weiland's Brewery does so well. You'll find CHINATOWN on North Broadway, north of Sunset; dim sum at Ocean Seafood is a must. Further south on BROADWAY is a heavily Latino shopping district where the main attractions are at Fourth Street: On the southeast corner is the historic Bradbury Building (take one look at its interior ironworks and you'll recognize a dozen film locations, especially Blade Runner), and on the southwest corner is Grand Central Market, a lively sawdust-floored market where you can find exotic produce and such choice delicacies as hog maws and cow tongues. (L.A. Conservancy, at www.laconservancy.org, gives the definitive tour of this former financial district.) No Downtown trip would be complete, though, without a walk through the garment district's Santee Alley (it's bounded by Santee Street and Maple Avenue on east and west, Olympic Boulevard and 12th Street on the north and south), where they can get it for you wholesale. Bring cash.
Restaurants/bars (a sampler platter)
For the view and the retro décor, Yamashiro, 1999 N. Sycamore Ave., Hollywood; for the green tamales, the historic El Cholo, 1121 S. Western Ave, L.A., and 1025 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica; for the karaoke, Dimples, 3413 W. Olive Ave., Burbank; for the Friday night car show, Bob's Big Boy, 4211 Riverside, Toluca Lake; for the ancient lounge-act Marty & Elayne, the Dresden Room, 1760 N. Vermont Ave., Los Feliz; for the timeless atmosphere, Formosa Café, 7156 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood; for the rude waiters and cocktails, Musso & Frank, 6667 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood; for the crowd (not for the food), El Coyote, 7312 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles; for hot dogs, think Pink's, the corner of Melrose and La Brea; for the health-conscious, there's the organic Urth Caffe, 8565 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, and the organic-Italian Puran's, 142 S. La Brea Ave., Los Angeles; for the health-unconscious, there's Roscoe's Chicken & Waffles, 5006 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles; for hip, atypical Mexican food, there's Alegria in Silverlake, 3510 Sunset Blvd.; for authentic sushi, there's Noshi Sushi, 4430 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles; for great Thai food and excellent service, House of Chan Dara, 310 N. Larchmont; for elegant cocktails, try the Standard Downtown, 550 S. Flower St., and in West Hollywood, 8300 Sunset Blvd.; for the scene, Bar Marmont, 8171 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood; for tasty lunches and a coffeehouse/ postcollegiate vibe, nothing beats Highland Grounds, 742 N Highland Ave., Los Angeles; though it's now a chain, some still swear by Jerry's Deli (the bowling alley has "rock and bowl" Friday nights), at two major locations, 8701 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, and 12655 Ventura Blvd., Studio City; for an old-style American eatery counter, try the Apple Pan, 10801 W. Pico Blvd., West L.A.; for a strip club that's not too creepy, there's Cheetah's, 4600 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood; to repent on Sunday morning, don't miss the pricey-but-hearty "gospel brunch" at House of Blues, 8430 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood; for a fluorescent-lit deli with surly waitresses, you can't beat Canter's, 419 N. Fairfax Ave., West Hollywood; for its historic French dip and 10 cent coffee, check out Philippe's, 1001 N. Alameda St., Downtown; for dim sum, in addition to the above-mentioned Ocean Seafood, there's Monterey Park's much-lauded Ocean Star, 145 N. Atlantic Blvd.
Like the great outdoors? L.A. has some great outdoors (even in the current heat). Here's where you can hook up with like-minded folks interested in exercise and recreation that doesn't involve walking on a treadmill with a Walkman.
Dockriders A bike club that meets Sunday mornings at Dock 52, Fisherman's Wharf in Marina Del Rey at 13485 Fiji Way. www.dockriders.com
James Dilley Preserve Hiking Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, 20101 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach. (949) 488-0287.
Frontrunners Track Club P.O. Box 691772, West Hollywood, CA 90069. (323) 460-2554. www.lafrontrunners.com.
Guided Hikes and Mountain Cycle Rides The Nature Conservancy at the Irvine County Open Space Preserve, 3142 Irvine Blvd., Irvine. (714) 832-7478.
Hike-a-Trail Sponsors thousands of outdoor activities each year. www.hikeatrail .com.
L.A. Bike Tours Offers beginner rides to Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Venice Beach/ canals, and a Beverly Hills Family Tour. Advanced rides head to the Hollywood sign/Griffith Park, Santa Monica mountains, Getty Center, and a two-day trek from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles. 6733 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood 90028. (323) 466-5890, (888) 775-2453.
L.A. Leggers A running club. P.O. Box 761, Santa Monica, CA 90406. (310) 577-8000. www.laleggers.org
L.A. Soccer League (818) 548-6420. Contact: Chris Fries. email@example.com. ca.us
Los Angeles West Side Women's Soccer Contact Judy in the recruitment office. (323) 651-1331
Sierra Club The local chapter hosts regular outings for members and non-members alike. Introductory membership is $25. www.sierraclub.org. (213) 387-4287.
Southern California Walkers Contact Elaine Ward, (626) 441-5459.
Walkers Club of L.A. Contact Carol Ferris, (818) 243-8818
Book Clubs
People do read in L.A., even without mass transit, and they don't just read scripts. There's the excellent radio show "Bookworm" (Thursdays, 2:30 p.m., KCRW 89.9 FM), a handful of good local bookstores (Dutton's in Brentwood, for one) in addition to the obligatory megastores. And there are the following book clubs:
The African Violet Meets 10 times per year (January-October) on the third Sunday of each month at 4 p.m. Contact Danielle at MsCherokee98@ aol.com.
Circle of Friends Started by one person, through word of mouth the circle was developed to—currently—13 members. Contact jmejus4u@ yahoo .com.
Infinite Journey Book Club A group of professional women, ages 27-37, who love to read literature by African-American authors. Meets the third Friday of each month at 7:30 p.m. to discuss selected book of the month. They also plan other activities such as family outings, picnics, parties, vacations, and book signings. Membership is by invitation only. Contact Angela Harvey at firstname.lastname@example.com or (323) 296-4066.
Page Readers Group This book club has been meeting since 1994. www.pagesreadersgroup.com.
Roundtable Book Group Located in the Los Angeles/San Gabriel Valley area. Founded in 1996 it currently has 25 members. The reading selections are varied and the club attempts to include titles from the major literary genres—fiction, non-fiction, science fiction, biographical, as well as international authors. Contact MuseNews1 @aol.com.
Tabahani Book Circle Dedicated to increasing literacy in the African-American community, Tabahani members read at least one book every month written by an author of African descent, as well as participate in reading to children at the A.C. Bilbrew Library in L.A. They also host literary events to expose others to the works of African-American authors. Contact tabahani@ weaveaweb .com.
The list below is by no means comprehensive—there are way too many gay/lesbian clubs, organizations, and events to list here, but hopefully the resources listed below will be enough to get you started.
Bears L.A. Sponsors tons of events all over Los Angeles. P.O. Box 4614, Valley Village, CA 91617. (323) 850-8958. www.bearquake.org. email@example.com
Gay Days West Ongoing events all over Los Angeles. www.gaydayswest.com.
Gay Men's Chorus L.A. The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N. McCadden Pl., Ste. 235, West Hollywood, CA 90038. www.gmcla.org. (323) 467-9741.
Gaywired.com Lists tons of events specific to Southern California.
GLAAD 5455 Wilshire Blvd, Ste. 1500, L.A., CA 90036. (323) 933-2240.
Great Outdoors Great Outdoors is a nonprofit, all-volunteer gay and lesbian organization dedicated to the enjoyment of outdoor recreation. P.O. Box 39470, L.A., CA 90039-0470. (213) 694-2160.
L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center 1625 N. Schrader Blvd., L.A., CA 90028. (323) 993-7600. www.laglc.org.
Charity/Volunteer Work
The acting coach Howard Fine once said, "If you want to be an interesting actor, be an interested actor." Following is a list of charitable organizations about which you can get interested—and which will no doubt be interested in hearing from you.
American Red Cross-Burbank 1001 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91506. (818) 842-5295.
Anti-Defamation League of Southern California 10495 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., CA 90025. (310) 446-8000.
Boy Scouts of America 1325 Grandview Ave. Glendale, CA 91201. (818) 243-6282.
Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles 4650 Sunset Blvd., L.A., CA 90027. (323) 660-2450.
The Children's Nature Institute of Southern California Volunteer to lead nature walks for young children at any of more than 40 sites in L.A. and Ventura counties, weekdays or weekends. Volunteers must attend a training course. Minimum commitment of one walk per month. 1440 Harvard St., Santa Monica, CA 90404. (310) 998-1151. www.childrensnatureinstitute.org.
Food for Body and Soul Meals, music, and an ecumenical worship service for the homeless and hungry of Glendale. Begins at 1:30 p.m. every Sunday. 138 N. Brand, Ste. 303, Glendale, CA 91203. (818) 242-4700. E-mail: email@example.com
Four Brown Hats Four Brown Hats Entertainment works in all media producing socially relevant productions while maintaining a strong cultural integrity and combining it with economic viability and community accountability. FBHE is committed to maintaining artistic excellence and making it accessible to a cross-section of the community. P.O. Box 31430, L.A., CA 90031. (323) 225-2919.
Free Arts Free Arts brings the joyful and healing power of the arts to abused and neglected children, and families in crisis in Southern California. Free Arts trains volunteers to work hands-on with victims of abuse. Dance, drama, writing, music, painting, and other avenues of creativity encourage them to channel emotions, release anger, and develop positive methods of communication. 11965 Venice Blvd., Ste. 402, L.A., CA 90066. (310) 313-4278.
Girls and Gangs of California The mission of Girls and Gangs is to provide support and advocacy for girls in the Los Angeles County Juvenile Justice System through program services that increase their self-esteem, self-determination, and chances for their successful reintegration into the communities while raising public awareness of their needs and potential. (310) 399-7910.
Glendale Humane Society 717 Ivy St., Glendale, CA 91204. (818) 242-1128.
Habitat for Humanity 1200 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 510, L.A., CA 90017-1908. www.habitatla.org.
International Medical Corps A global humanitarian nonprofit organization dedicated to saving lives and relieving suffering through health-care training and medical relief programs. 11500 West Olympic Blvd., Ste 506, L.A., CA 90064, (310) 826-7800
Los Angeles City Volunteer Corps 200 N. Spring St., City Hall-Mezzanine Level, L.A., CA 90012. (888) 227-3452. www.makeadifferencela.com.
Meals on Wheels P.O. Box 7001, Santa Monica, CA 90406-7001. (310) 394-5133.
The Los Angeles Free Clinic The Los Angeles Free Clinic's mission is to serve as a community-based organization that identifies health-care and human-service needs of people who cannot or will not receive care elsewhere. 8405 Beverly Blvd., L.A., CA 90048. (323) 653-8622, ext. 1617.
Odyssey Health Care of Los Angeles Odyssey Health Care is looking for volunteers to work with terminally ill patients and their families. 1055 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 875. L.A., CA 90017. (213) 481-0009.
Peace Corps of Los Angeles 2361 Rosecrans Ave., Suite 155, El Segundo, CA 90245. (310) 235-7444.
Reading to Kids Reading to Kids is an organization composed of volunteers helping to provide children with an enthusiasm for reading and a brighter future. It organizes monthly reading clubs on the second Saturday of each month near Downtown L.A. www.readingtokids.org. 1600 Sawtelle Blvd., Ste. 210, L.A., CA 90025. (310) 479-7455.


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ACParadise Network: American Cosplay Paradise American Cosplay Experience American Cosplay Snapshots
Cosplayer Haven > Costume of Amane Misa (Death Note)
- Most Recent Photo
- Series
- Death Note
- Character
- Amane Misa
- Year Completed:
- Construction Difficulty:
- Very Easy
- Costume worn at:
- Sugoicon 2008
About this Costume
- Construction Details:
I made everything for this costume: the shirt, the skirt, the bow, and the necklaces. This was my first time making a blouse, but it came out good.
- Personal Thoughts:
- Misa is sooooooo cute! I put on extra makeup in an attempt to be cute like her. This is the most makeup I've worn in a looooong time. XD
Add a Comment

subset: commoncrawl


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Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes environment screenshots
Four shots show different locations and times.
Konami and Kojima Productions have released four new screenshots showcasing the environments of Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes.
The location and time zone of each image is different. They're described by the developer as "photo-realistic," with the graphics of a live-action film.
View the screenshots at the gallery. The game is coming to PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360.
Save $3 with the coupon code "GEMATSU"


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Traditional / New Orleans - CD Reviews
It's Tight Like That by Jeff Healey & The Jazz Wizards
Written by
Richard Bourcier
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Traditional / New Orleans - CD Reviews
It's Tight Like That by Jeff Healey & The Jazz Wizards
Here is Jeff Healey's first release for Stony Plain Records. Happily, his two earlier traditional jazz recordings will be re-issued shortly and given the wider coverage the Edmonton label offers.
Healey's records within the genre of "hard blues" and "fusion" sold in the millions from 1985 through 2000. Blind since birth, the 40 year old musician picked up a guitar as a youngster and learned to play the instrument on his lap. In spite of admonishments from musicians who suggested he would never progress any further until he held the instrument properly, Healey persisted and proved the experts were not always right.
The young guitarist eventually inherited his great-grandfather's collection of 78 RPM records from the 20s and 30s. The records numbered about 10,000 then and Healey has since increased the collection to over 30,000 shellac records plus thousands of LPs and CDs. This writer encountered Jeff Healey at a jazz collector's event more than twenty years ago. In spite of his blindness, the youngster was able to feel the surface of a 78rpm disc and determine not only the name of the manufacturer but accurately estimate the date of issue. All 78s had a numbering system embossed or impressed near the label. The matrix, issue and "take" numbers often appeared. Of course, Healey would have to ask a friend to read the label to him in order to determine the tune title and artist.
His love of the jazz and dance music of the 1920s and 30s lead to his becoming one of the world's most knowledgeable experts in the field and a respected broadcaster. His popular "My Kinda Jazz" has run since 1988 on CBC and more recently on JazzFM 91.1 and may be heard on the internet. The two-hour program is as enlightening as entertaining.
Like the late Cliff "Kid" Bastien, the Jeff Healey band got its start at Toronto's legendary Grossman's Tavern. The band now appears regularly at Healey's, a nightspot owned by the leader. One never knows who may appear with the Jazz Wizards on a given evening.
This CD,
It's Tight Like That
features special guest Chris Barber, the world renowned trad trombonist from Britain. Barber appears on ten of the twelve tracks. On "Little Girl" and "Sheik Of Araby," pianist Reide Kaiser replaces Brian Graville while Ross Woolridge fills the clarinet chair. The two tunes were taped at the 2005 Montreal International Jazz Festival while the balance came from a live performance at Hugh's Room in Toronto.
Jeff Healey's trumpet prowess continues to grow and his work on "Bugle Call Rag" testifies. His gutsy vintage style vocal on "Sing You Sinners" is lively and authentic. The band swings ceaselessly. Chris Barber steps to the microphone to deliver "Basin Street Blues" including a witty trombone solo in his trademark style. The six-minute piece is a show-stealer and it's great to hear the veteran player in such good form.
If we were forced to pick a favorite on this recording project, it would have to be the sizzling reading of the 1931 hit "Little Girl." The young violinist, Drew Jurecka, swings like there was no tomorrow as does the rest of the band. "Someday Sweetheart" offers some fine piano by Brian Graville and another good solo by the special guest from Britain. Guitarist, Jesse Barksdale slips in a nice passage while the youthful Jurecka continues to impress. Clarinetist, Christopher Plock, delivers the scatting vocal on "Darktown Strutters Ball," a tune penned by the Canadian born Shelton Brooks in 1917.
Chris Barber fans will love the longest track on the album. It's the trombonist's own blues titled "Goin' Up The River." Both guitarists, Healey and Barksdale, back up the Barber vocal with the leader taking a very nice solo. Chris Barber a trombone solo in his own inventive style.
Jeff Healey new project is satisfying and swinging. We have no fear when we recommend this album to all fans of classic jazz. Five shining stars!
Additional Info
Artist / Group Name:
Jeff Healey & The Jazz Wizards
CD Title:
It's Tight Like That
Traditional / New Orleans
Year Released:
Record Label:
Stony Plain
Bugle Call Rag, Sing You Sinners, Basin Street Blues, Little Girl, Someday Sweetheart, Darktown Strutters Ball, Confessin', Keep It To Yourself, Sheik Of Araby, Goin' Up The River, It's Tight Like That/ Wipe 'Em Off.
Jeff Healey (trumpet, guitar, vocals), Christopher Plock (clarinet, soprano & alto sax, vocal on #6), Terra Hazelton (vocal on #8), Drew Jurecka (violin), Jesse Barksdale (guitar), Brian Graville (piano), Colin Bray (bass), Gary Scriven (drums). Special guest: Chris Barber (trombone, vocals on #3,10, 11).
Label Website:
Five Stars
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Traditional / New Orleans
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Richard Bourcier
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College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Sugar Bowl Tickets On Sale Today!
This year the Sugar Bowl will be part of the inaugral College Football Playoff as one of the first ever semifinal games! PrimeSport is the Official Ticket Exchange & Hospitality Provider of the College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Allstate Sugar Bowl.
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The message of the stars on your birthday is that you can be as happy or as sad as you choose to be, so fill your mind with wonderful thoughts and make the next 12 months one of the most fantastic times of your life. It's up to you – you create your reality.
ARIES (March 21 - April 20):
Money and possessions are important, of course, but don't make too big an issue of them. Over the next few days you should concentrate more on relationships, especially your family ties. It's who you love, not what you owe, that truly matters.
TAURUS (April 21 - May 21):
You may be tempted to interfere in someone else's personal situation but no good will come of it. The simple fact is you cannot do everything for everyone, so decide who is on your help list and let others learn from their own mistakes.
GEMINI (May 22 - June 21):
The sun is about to leave your birth sign and it won't be long before you notice a difference in the direction your life seems to be taking. The important thing is that you don't try to stop the inevitable. Swim with the current, not against it.
CANCER (June 22 - July 23):
There is an energy and urgency about you now that has been lacking in recent weeks and it will grow many times stronger when the sun moves into your sign tomorrow. Your life is about to take a huge turn for the better.
LEO (July 24 - Aug. 23):
If you play hard to get today you may send people the wrong sort of message. For one thing they may believe you no longer care, which of course isn't true. Make yourself available, tiring though it may sometimes be.
VIRGO (Aug. 24 - Sept. 23):
By all means plan something new but don't start on it yet. When the sun changes signs tomorrow it's quite likely you will become aware of a better way to reach your aims and fulfill your desires. There's no rush, so take your time.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23):
It's good that you have the confidence to take risks but not so good if you take them wildly. As the sun nears the career angle of your chart make sure you don't do anything silly on the work front. Important people are watching.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22):
You may be tempted to end a relationship that has been going through stormy seas of late but is that really a wise move? To be on the safe side wait until the sun changes signs tomorrow. You may find that your attitude changes too.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21):
The most important thing now is that you do not allow vague fears and forebodings to hold you back from what you are planning. Yes, there are a number of things that can go wrong but even if they do the consequences won't be so bad.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 20):
You seem to have resigned yourself to the idea that you will have to take a loss on something that just hasn't been working out the way you planned. Don't be too hasty. What happens today and over the weekend will cheer you up no end.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19):
Can you trust what other people tell you? No you cannot. They may not be trying to trick you as such but there is reason to believe they themselves have been deceived, so err on the side of caution and trust your own instincts first and last.
PISCES (Feb. 20 - Mar. 20):
Fate will take its chosen path no matter what you may think about it, so go with the flow and adapt to what happens rather than try to fight it. One of the best times of the year is about to begin, so you really have nothing to fear.
Visit Sally at www.sallybrompton.com
For your extended forecast, call 1-900-783-8333, or 1-877-976-1414 for credit-card access. Calls cost $1.49 per minute.


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Today's game happened to coincide with the distribution of Carlos Gomez collectible bobbleheads -and I'd have to think that would be one of the best ones to ever have- and convenient because getting them via mail would be expensive and would not include seeing a game while you are trying to make sure your soda doesn't tip over and and a coat or something hadn't completely slipped out diagonally through one of the back corners of your onto the ground while being conscious of people having to get up and get past you while making sure you haven't dropped other things, and then wondering why you got a game program if you did, if you had too many other things…
Or, I'm basically speaking for myself, here. There isn't much room to have any of these various items and I can't ever eat anything at games, or avoid getting a program from somewhere when I didn't want one, or avoid getting a large caffeinated beverage. Everything is a distraction. I've also never been to a game that coincided with a bobblehead promotion, and the thought of it makes me nervous because there'd be no room.
– – – – –
Back to the Carlos Gomez bobblehead event. There was no way a comment from the Brewers CF delivered via the broadcast team, or in a game preview or one of the extra game notes wasn't going to be about how he'd wanted to have a bat and maybe be swinging. And then he hits a home run, and his swing is really tough for me to figure out how to fit into a complete thought into fewer than 8 frames. Plus, I'd had the drawing actually prepared after the game Saturday night, and couldn't get the swing drawn, today. Sorry Carlos/thanks for being excellent in other aspects of the game. It saved me having to include Super Mario Bros. clouds.
(drawing & list of owed items
-J. Lemont )
Additional Notes: (The Carlos Gomez in the background is from early 2012).


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From the front porches of the U.S., the view of the Peace Corps is beautiful. The image is that of a battalion of cheery, crew-cut kids who two years ago hopped off their drugstore stools, and hurried out around the world to wage peace. Through the application of Good Old American Know-How and That Old College Spirit, they have all but won the cold war. It somehow seems too good to be true.
It is. As so often happens, the image is glossier than the reality. The Peace Corps kids are not...
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Didn't Paul injury his vocal cords when the Top 13 started to perform? I read something about this and it might explain why he always seemed to strain during his performances.
Idoloonies: Paul McDonald on 'Blackbird,' Crazy Dancing, and Adam Lambert Comparisons?
Click link below to watch Paul's video:Quote:
When Paul McDonald decided to try out for American Idol, he never really thought about taking home the top prize. But at age 26, the lead singer for the well-regarded southeastern rock band the Grand Magnolias still found himself playing frat parties to pay the bills, and decided a stint on the nations most popular talent competition might help change his lot in life.
In his freewheeling Idoloonies interview, Paul breaks down the highlights of his Idol run: How he and fellow semifinalist Kendra Chantelle cooked up their memorable duet of Blackbird in Vegas (and their subsequent recording of the duet Like You Loved Me Then); why his preparations for Rocket Man turned into a big cluster of craziness; and which of the songs he performed in the competition hed once played at Bonnaroo. He also dishes the sinking feeling of discovering one of his Idol song choices had been previously covered by season 8′s Adam Lambert, the reason he stopped watching the show once he reached the Top 13, and a theory about why his dancing on the Idol stage might have looked a little weird.
Idoloonies: Paul McDonald on Crazy Dancing, and...Adam Lambert Comparisons? - TVLine
YouTube - Paul McDonald - Kendra Chantelle - American Idol - Like You Loved Me Then
If they had done this duet on AI, they would have blown everyone away.
I finally checked out a couple of The Grand Magnolia vids on youtube. What a difference! I found him very interesting during his time on AI and was always hopeful that we'd see what I thought was there. But I was usually unimpressed with what he did. Nothing ever seemed to fit him. That band DOES fit him. Not sure if I'd be rushing out to buy their CD, but their music is definitely enjoyable. And Paul is so much more comfortable playing a guitar as he sings.
As I was listening to American Dreams, I was thinking it would be a great song to use in a movie. Then I remembered about the information from a month ago that their music will be used in a movie! Good for them - I wish them much success.
Paul and Nikki Reed are engaged! :thud That was quick!
Twilight's Nikki Reed, American Idol's Paul McDonald Are Engaged : People.com
Watch them end up being married for 50+ years. :rofl
I did like her response about why she loves him. It's a mature reason so they might just make it.


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House prices have risen again but this time it appears they might have risen past a dangerous threshold.
According to the Nationwide, UK prices increased by one per cent in June, taking the annual rate of increase to 11.8 per cent. It means the average price in the UK is £188,903 and in London £400,000. But, more worryingly, it means house prices have risen above their peak in 2007, just before the housing bubble burst.
The question now is whether a bubble is forming again and whether enough is being done to control it; so far, the evidence is variable. In London, for example, prices do look like they are out of control, although some estate agents in the city say buyers are at last beginning to show more caution.
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According to the Nationwide's figures, there also appear to have been big rises in some parts of Scotland, most recently South Ayrshire and the Borders, although, again, the picture varies. There are some parts of the UK where prices are continuing to fall.
But even when these local variations are taken into account, the weight of evidence is that UK house prices are once again too high and rising too fast. What's more, there is already concern that the action taken by the Bank of England might not be enough to ensure a manageable balance in the market.
Robert Gardner, Nationwide's chief economist, is one of those who has his doubts. The Bank of England's measures, he said, are unlikely to have a significant impact on housing transactions or price growth and it is easy to see his point on the Bank's ruling that loans of 4.5 times a borrower's income or higher should account for no more than 15 per cent of new mortgages.
The problem with this measure (welcome though it is) is that loans of that scale account for only 10 per cent of the market which still leaves room for a great deal of expansion. In the longer term, it may be that the Bank will have to go further and restrict the lending further to 3.5 times income, which has always been recognised as the sensible upper limit anyway.
The other measure the Bank has taken, the stress test that ensures borrowers can keep up their mortgage payments in the event of an interest rate of up to 3 per cent, has more promise. The fact that Mark Carney, the Bank's governor, has repeatedly hinted at an imminent rate rise may itself help to dampen the market.
As for the UK Government, it must do more, particularly to encourage the building of more houses. There have been some encouraging signs of late (many construction firms have been taking on more staff, for example) but, earlier this week, it was revealed that UK Government officials expect a decrease in new builds this year.
If the dreaded housing bubble is forming again, that kind of news on home building will not help. The housing sector is unquestionably an important part of the economy, but the danger of the kind of price rises we are starting to see in some parts of the UK is that prices will once again become detached from realistic, average incomes. And that, as we learned in 2008, is not only unsustainable. It also risks undermining the entire economy.


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Police question man after hit and run
A man has come forward to police after a hit and run accident which killed a teenager in Kelso in north Queensland overnight.
The 32-year-old man approached police at Kirwan police station just after 10:00pm AEST with information about the accident, in which the teenager was hit while walking along Upper Ross River Road about 9:00pm.
Calls from a resident alerted police and ambulance services that someone was lying on the road near the intersection of Rosewood Avenue, but the 18-year-old man died at the scene.
Police interviewed the 32-year-old man last night, and have seized a Holden Commodore for mechanical and scientific inspections.
Townsville police will continue the investigation with the assistance of Townsville CIB.
No charges have been laid yet.
Topics: police, death, kelso-4815, kirwan-4817, townsville-4810


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Of course, the habitual response to such ifs and buts features the anatomical difference between one's aunt and uncle.
Nevertheless, the prospect of Celtic leaving all domestic contenders bobbing distantly behind in their wake by now seemed a perfectly reasonable prospect at the start of the campaign and Neil Lennon finds little compensation in the fact that his team's slips have maintained interest in the top of the SPL table, at least for the moment.
"Yes, people would then be treating it with indifference, but I can't look it that way," said the Hoops manager, ahead of Wednesday evening's encounter with Hearts at Tynecastle. "I am not happy with the consistency of our league form and there's no doubt the rigours of the Champions League have had an effect but I can't use that as the reason why we're not doing as well."
Lennon added to the gaiety of nations by exchanging opinions with a couple of fans behind his technical area during Saturday's 1-0 defeat by Caley Thistle - and by declaring afterwards that he would go if that was what the Celtic support wanted - a touch of the theatricals that was not taken wholly seriously by either his listeners or the man himself, as he acknowledged when asked if he had been blowing off steam.
"Yes, I am tucked into the job now and I want to see it through," he said. "I want success. It makes me more determined than ever. There will be people who are pleased about the reaction at the weekend and want to take shots at us and that's fine.
"They don't contribute anything to the game up here and just want to take the negatives out of it. I am prepared for it, I've seen it all before and I've been in a lot worse position than this.
"One point out of nine at home is not good enough, so I sympathise with them (the fans) - but they have to sympathise with us sometimes, too. It's not that the players are not trying to win the game or that they are lackadaisical, or lazy - it's just that it has not happened at times. I need to get my finger on the pulse and find out why."
Georgios Samaras was also on hand - with the demeanour of a man having a tooth pulled without anaesthetic - to offer thoughts, if not clarity, on the dichotomy between Celtic's form at home and in Europe. Asked if it was easier to engage mentally with the task of facing Barcelona than Caley Thistle, he retorted with a reading from the Book of Cantona.
"It's nothing to do with mentality. To be honest I hate that word. I don't agree that the mentality isn't right or with that word," said the Greek striker. "I know it's difficult to go from Champions League to SPL but that's football, that's the reason we're professionals. We need to switch on and be more focussed and try to play our game.
"Psychology is a totally different thing from mentality. People might use mentality as an excuse. I'm not a believer in that but psychology is something else. When you're psychologically high you're feeling good about yourself and feeling positive.
"That's a totally different thing than your mentality. You can't compare them or put them in the same cup. Of course we need to be in good psychological condition to do well and I think we are. But I don't believe we have a problem regarding mentality."
Meanwhile, the Hearts manager, John McGlynn, does not believe Lennon is under additional strain at Parkhead and is ready for a similar reaction to when Celtic were narrowly beaten in Barcelona and lost to Kilmarnock the following weekend, before bouncing back with an emphatic 5-0 midweek win over St Johnstone.
"I don't think he's under any pressure," McGlynn said. "If they've maybe taken their eye off the ball a wee bit in defeats like Saturday, they end up coming out on the Wednesday night and in one of those situations taking five goals off St Johnstone.
"Sometimes it just takes a wee kick up the backside to bring you back down to earth. There's been a reaction to their defeat which will certainly have them fired up.
"When they come to Tynecastle they know they have to be at the top of their game. That's something we have to be very aware of and be prepared for."
Should Hearts win - and the odds are against such an outcome, despite the vagaries of Celtic's form - McGlynn's men would move to within four points of the champions. "We'd have probably taken that at the start of the season, four points behind Celtic entering December," McGlynn added.
"It could go 10 points - I'm not daft - but we've got an opportunity to close that gap. Everyone would be delighted if we were to do that, because it may well be there's a new leader at the top of the table going into December.
"It's good for the SPL. It's good there's competition in the SPL."
Hearts, will have to do without Danny Grainger for around three months after the left-back suffered a partial tear of his anterior crucial ligament in Saturday's 0-0 draw at Motherwell.
"We're hoping he's not going to need surgery," McGlynn added. "I'm gutted for Danny that he's going to miss a good part of the season. He's one of our top goalscorers this season with three goals from left-back, which is an excellent return."


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Viola Martin Henderson, 100, a resident of Sears Wesley Court in Abilene ended her earthly journey on Friday, March 23, 2007.
She was born on Feb. 6, 1907, in Hill County and joined with a little brother in bringing joy to William Edward Martin and Lillie Viola Martin. Following the birth of another daughter in 1908, the family moved to Westover in 1909 and bought land and established a farming enterprise and welcomed the birth of seven more children. Her father died in 1930. Her mother died in 1980.
Viola graduated from Westover High School in 1924 and attended the Academy at McMurry College in Abilene and continued in McMurry College (now University) and graduated in 1929 with a Bachelor Degree in Bible and Religious Education. She was active in college organizations devoted to services related to The Methodist Church. Following her graduation, she taught school and assisted her mother in caring for the younger children in the home.
During her final year in college, she and Vernon Henderson became attracted to each other as both were interested in the ministry of the church as well as vitally attracted to each other. Soon after graduation, they became engaged to be married but mutually agreed to wait until Vernon graduated from Southern Methodist University in 1931. They were united in marriage on Sept. 20, 1931 and on Nov. 12, 1931, Vernon was accepted as a Clergy member of The Methodist Church, South and they began a mutually devoted service in The Northwest Texas Annual Conference. Viola was as vitally devoted to Christian ministry as her husband throughout their years. Viola was active in all areas with the women of the church in all organizations: in the local church, district and Annual Conference. She taught Sunday School Classes in most appointments where they served.
Soon after the outbreak of World War II, her husband told her he felt he should offer his service in Christian ministry to the men and women in military service as a Chaplain in the United States Navy. In November of 1943, he was accepted and became Chaplain and following a period of training in Chaplain's School in Williamson, Va., saw service stateside for a year and over seas and was serving in the Philippines when the war ended.
In August of 1992, they moved to Sears Heritage Place and joined in organizing a Methodist worship service in the Chapel of that facility on Sunday afternoons.
Viola received many honors during her years as she joined her husband in their united service in The Methodist Episcopal Church, South, The Methodist Church and The United Methodist Church as it is named today. She acknowledges that one of the highest honors came when her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren with others lending assistance in the most beautiful and joyous occasions came on their father's one hundredth birthday and their parents' seventy first anniversary of their marriage which was held at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Abilene on Sept. 21, 2002.
She is survived by her husband of 75 years and their children, Vernola H. Loranc of Rosenberg and Travis Gene and wife Nell Henderson of Brownwood; grandchildren, Vernon E. Bartley of Houston Shirley B. and husband Robert S. MacNeill of Port Arthur, Charles E. Bartley, Jr. and wife Lisa of Cypress, Elizabeth Vernola and husband Ralph Turvin of Waller, Cerena H. and husband Rick Suarez of El Paso, and Kelly H. and husband Terry Ives of Midland; great grandchildren, Charles Alan and wife Michelle Hughes of Houston, Heather MacNeill of Lubbock, Robert S. MacNeill, U.S. Army, Matthew Suarez and Kayla Suarez of El Paso, and Rachel and Kevin Ives of Midland; two great great-grandsons of Houston; one brother, Jerry and wife Joan Martin of Seymour; a large number of neices and nephews; and a host of loyal friends.
Favorite Memorial Gifts For The Hendersons Are: Student Scholarship Fund, McMurry University, P.O. Box 98, McMurry Station, Abilene, Texas 79697; Sears Methodist Foundation, One Village Drive, Abilene, Texas 79606; Family Trust Fund, St. Paul United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 3396, Abilene, Texas 79604-3396; Everliving Trust Fund, First United Methodist Church, 1411 Broadway, Lubbock, Texas 78401 or to your own favorite service organization.
Memorial Services will be held at St. Paul United Methodist Church at 10 a.m. Monday morning in Abilene with visitation immediately following. Burial will be on Tuesday at Resthaven Memorial Cemetery in Lubbock at 10 a.m. Memorial Service will be held at First United Methodist Church in Lubbock on Tuesday at 11 a.m. Visitation in Lubbock will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday evening at Resthaven Funeral Home in Lubbock.
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BOSTON (CBS) – Multiple reports say Jonathan Papelbon has agreed to a 4-year 50 million dollar deal to close for the Philadelphia Phillies.
It's would be the largest contract ever given to a relief pitcher.
"We haven't made an offer to this point," said Red Sox General Manager Ben Cherington. "What we'd be willing to do at this point in the offseason given what our other needs are, and given what we feel the alternatives are, is not something that matched up with what Pap was looking for, because of that we never made a formal offer."
Papelbon is the Red Sox all time saves leader and played a huge role when they won the World Series in 2007.
Nothing is official until Papelbon takes his physical, which ESPN reports will happen next week.
Listen to the interview with Cherington
Cherington says he knew there would be high demand for the closer.
"Pap has worked extremely hard to put himself in a position to go into free agency coming off a really successful season, and we knew that he was going to be in demand."
Cherington says he wouldn't be surprised if Papelbon didn't call them back.
"I don't think he owes a phone call back, " he says. "We weren't going to be able to bridge that gap at this point in the offseason, we wanted to leave the door open if we got deeper in the offseason"
Will Cherington miss Papelbon?
"I would be disappointed in the sense that I have great admiration for Pap, I would love to have him on the team still, but it wouldn't be surprising if the reports were true."
Cherington says there are many options for the Red Sox closer role.
"I do believe we have a couple of internal options to close," said Cherington. "Because we feel like there are alternatives both internal and perhaps external as well, it's a bountiful closer market relative to some years, I just think we felt that right now the focus was going to be on other areas of the team."
Cherington said Daniel Bard is ready to step up.
"Daniel would embrace more responsibility and is ready for more responsibility, we're not ready to commit to any role for Daniel or any other member of the bullpen."


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Date Posted: Friday, June 21st, 2013
Categories: News Office of Highway Safety Safety and Homeland Security
Dover, DE – Today, the Delaware Office of Highway Safety announced the preliminary results of the third and final wave of the high visibility distracted driving enforcement campaign, Phone in One Hand. Ticket in the Other that ran from June 4th through June 17th.
So far, 35 municipal police agencies out of the participating 40 agencies along with Delaware State Police have reported a total of 1,562 citations issued during the third wave of enforcement. This brings the total number of Delaware cell phone citations issued as part of this campaign to 5,757.
Last June, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced that the Delaware Office of Highway Safety (OHS) would receive $900,000 in federal support to expand the Department's "Phone in One Hand, Ticket in the Other." pilot enforcement campaign to reduce distracted driving crashes. The grant funded three 2 week waves of enforcement, paid media to support the enforcement, and evaluation of the demonstration project.
"When the U.S Transportation Secretary came to Delaware to announce this grant last year, we promised to use the money to encourage motorists to put their cell phones down while driving," said Governor Jack Markell. "We have increased enforcement and decreased distracted driving, which has helped to prevent crashes and get people to their jobs, schools and businesses safely."
Delaware law enforcement has issued over 33,000 cell phone citations since the cell phone law went into effect in Delaware on January 2, 2011. In 2010, cell phone distraction was a contributing factor in 199 crashes, 139 crashes in 2011, and 125 crashes in 2012.
The first wave of enforcement was held November 7-20, 2012 and resulted in 2,152 cell phone citations issued. The second wave occurred April 9th through 22nd and resulted in 2,043 drivers being issued cell phone citations. Last year Delaware law enforcement officers issued a total of 13,142 cell phone citations statewide.
"Delaware law enforcement issued nearly 6,000 hands free cell phone violations during this distracted driving campaign. Just as important is the message we have sent warning drivers about the dangers of texting and driving. We will continue to use this two-prong approach of enforcement and education in order to ensure safety on Delaware roads," Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Lewis D. Schiliro said.
Program evaluation is being conducted by an independent contractor, Preusser Research Group (PRG), which includes pre and post enforcement observation and awareness survey data collection. PRG has observed 15 sites during each wave of enforcement and will provide an index measure that will indicate whether or not hand-held device use is changing over time.
"Preliminary evidence suggests that the program is having the desired effect on reducing hand held cell phone use while driving," said Jana Simpler Director of the Office of Highway Safety. "We believe motorists heard our message loud and clear. Distracted driving is dangerous and they will get a ticket if they text or don't use a hands free device while talking on their cell phone."
Delaware cell phone law bans texting while driving as well as bans the use of hand-held cell phones. Drivers are required to utilize hands-free technology in order to use a cell phone while driving. It also bans the use of pagers, blackberry's, PDA's, laptops, games, or the use of any other electronic device by someone while driving. If you have to make a call, pull over to a safe place to use your cell phone or use a hands free device like a blue tooth.
If a police officer observes you using a handheld device while driving they can pull you over and give you a $106 fine for your first offense. If you get caught again penalties increase and can go up to $300. Violations do not incur points on your driver's license.
Distracted driving consists of any non-driving activity a person engages in that has the potential to distract him or her from the primary task of driving. Nationally in 2011, 3,331 people were killed and an estimated 387,000 others were injured in crashes that involved a distracted driver. In the same year, 9,842 cell phone citations were issued to Delaware drivers using their handheld device while driving.
Delaware law enforcement teamed with the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Phone in One Hand. Ticket in the Other. campaign to step up enforcement of distracted driving laws to save lives on Delaware's roadways. For more information on distracted driving, please visitwww.distraction.gov/delaware.
Related Topics: cell phone • cell phone enforcement • cell phone use • Phone In One Hand. Ticket In The Other. • public safety • texting • texting and driving • traffic enforcement • traffic safety
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wikiHow to Design a Table with a Built in Drink Cooler
Create the ultimate party table where guests won't have to get up and hit the bar for a cold beverage. This table has a built in drink holder/cooler in the middle that can hold enough ice to keep bottles and cans ice cold.
1Cut wood before you begin. This will make construction considerably easier if you pre-cut the wood:
- Top long portion: 2 – 6X2 @ 5′ 9-1/4″
- Top side and middle: 3 – 8X2 @ 1′ 9″
- Top center: 12 – 2X4 @ 1′ 11-3/4″
- Legs: 4 – 2X4 @ 2′ 5-1/4″
- Outer long skirt: 2 – 1X4 @ 5′ 2-1/4″
- Inside long skirt: 2 – 1X4 @ 5′ 6-1/4″
- Short skirt: 2 – 1X4 @ 2′ 5″
- Cross beam: 4 – 1X4 @ 2′ 3-1/2″
- Box supports: 4 – 1X4 @ 2′ 1-1/4″
- Long box side: 4 – 1X6 @ 1′ 11-3/4″
- Short box side: 4 – 1X6 @ 8-3/4″
- Bottom box: 10 – 1X2 @ 7-1/4″ (bottom box)
2Sand all boards after they've been cut using your electric sander.
3Create pocket holes on both ends of eight of the top center boards (2X4 @ 1′ 11-3/4″).
- Use the Kreg Jig to create the holes, which will make the project considerably easier to put together.
4Lay out table on the ground. Place pre-drilled hole slats face up for easier assembly.
- Lay top long boards on the outside, along with the 2 top center boards on the inside of each side.
- Lay top side and middle boards on each end of the table to complete the design.
- Add planter boxes in the middle upside down (hole facing down).
5Put table top together. Use wood glue to bound the wood planks together and then use the 2 ½" wood screws to attach the center boards to the middle boards through the pre-drilled pocket holes.
- Hold boards in place while attaching with either glue or screws.
- Repeat this step on the other side of the table.
6Attach the long side board to the table using your Kreg Jig and 2 ½" wood screws. You will also need to use wood glue to hold boards in place after you've screwed boards together for further security.
- Use a pencil to mark off the places where you will drill more holes using your Kreg Jig. You want 6 holes where the side and middle boards connect with the long board.
7Build the drink holder boxes. These must be made to fit the middle of the table and hold the plastic planter boxes.
- Screw together the sides of the box by screwing wood together and then adding wood glue between boards. Use the 1 ¼" screws to attach the frame together.
- Create 5 evenly spaced holes along one open side of the box. Use your T-square to line up holes as they must be able to line up evenly.
- Add the box supports. Place the pieces flush against the bottom sides of the box and screw into place using 1 ¼" screws. Add a little wood glue for extra support.
8Attach cross beam boards to the boxes. Measure and mark the centers of both the cross beam board and the short box side of the wooden box.
- Use the T-square to ensure you draw straight lines.
- Clamp cross beam board in place. Add wood glue before adding clamps.
- Attach cross beam board to the wooden box using 4 of the 1 ¼" wood screws.
9Add legs and supports to the table top. Turn table face down (if it isn't already face down).
- Mark and drill pocket holes in all 4 corners to attach the skirt to the table top. Use the Kreg Jig to make holes.
- Glue table skirts to the table top through the pocket holes.
- Add wood glue to the planter box assemblies, anywhere the they make contact with the table.
- Attach cross beams to the table skirt by drilling 2 counter board holes at each junction. Use the 1 ¼" screws to hold all 8 areas together.
- Line up and attach legs and outer skirt. Attach outer skirt and legs using wood glue and 1 1/4" screws. Clamp and hold in place until glue dries.
- Use wood filler to patch any holes.
- Add plastic planter boxes.
10Create box tops taking two of the center boards and attaching them together in four spots through pocket holes. Use the 2-1/2″ wood screws and wood glue. Clamp to hold them together.
- Cut a hole in the lids using a 1 ½" hole saw bit. This will allow you to pull open the box tops.
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Things You'll Need
- Lumber/wood
- Wood glue
- Wood filler
- Wood screws (1-1/4" & 2-1/2")
- 110 grit sandpaper
- 2 plastic planter boxes
- Electric sander
- Kreg Jig
- Square
- Clamps
- Electric screwdriver
- 1/8" counter bore drill bit
- 1-1/2" hole saw bit
- T-square
- Pencil
- Always wear safety gear when using power tools.
- Select stain or paint for the table's finish. Allow at least 24 hours for dry time before using the table.
- Empty table coolers between use--although waterproof, standing water is never great to have near/on your table.
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I grew up waterskiing the Nor Cal Delta, when the bad azz jets with Basset OTs , mini-daycruisers and Sanger V-drives (that didn't have a wakeboard tower on em) ruled the waterways, used inner tubes from trucks (not Overtons) and after getting tired trying to dip elbows, went to a "Skurfer" then we would bring out the knee boards. My dad would pick me up from my mother's house and we would ski the weekends away and all summer on various Nor Cal lakes.
I bought my first boat when I was 17, and have lost count since then. Started a family late, built a business, houses, and always had some kind of boat all through my young adulthood, stupid twenty's (I did some DUMB things!!) thirtys, bought and built my fastest boat (a whipplecharged 502 21' Schiada) in my 40s and sold it in '03 as my boys were old enough to start skiing and that was no family boat. Bought my first and only new boat in '03 - A wakeboard Team Edition Natique - had to sell when my business took the '08 dump and picked up the Barbie boat, a 96 Ski Sanger, two seasons later picked up the '02 Moomba put over a hundred hours on it last season. Then I ran across an '08 Tige RZ4 and its sitting in the driveway waiting for the new stereo and ballast.
What have all these boats and years have in common -- Family and Friends!!!
Good luck Skylar, and I don't know how you can stay away from the goofyness on this forum
BTW - I know what you mean by the pool, we just had our new pool pebbletecked (sp?) and what a PIA!!!
The buyer picked up the boat yesterday...My wife and daughter were going to drive down to the marina to say good bye to the boat (pretty weird I know, but it was like part of the family) and halfway there they turned around, they couldn't do it. I actually had to leave before they put the boat on the buyers trailer.
I would love if my pool was at the point of having the pebbletech put in. It has taken over 2 weeks to run the gas lines, at most a 2 day job. They promised me the pool would be finished by May 31st. At this rate they will not get it done by the end of June!


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ACW Brunch 2017
Imagine having some delicious authentic Arabic brunch food while looking over spectacular Lake Washington and Cascade Mountain views.
OK, now stop imagining and book February 19th on your calendar! ACW is organizing a brunch in Mercer Island's Community Center and we'd love to see you there!
As with last year's brunch, kids are more than welcome!
Tickets are now available at: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2816646
Ticket Prices:
General: $20
Family of 4: $60
Child under 12: $15
Child under 5: Free


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Dear Scott:
We recently had to put down our 11-year-old Labrador, Buddy. Our 13-year-old daughter was crushed and came to us with a suggestion this weekend. She saw on the internet that you could have a dog stuffed and asked us if we could do that for her. My husband said if she paid for half he would consider it. I on the other hand think we should say no and surprise our daughter with a new puppy. How do we resolve this issue?
Leave your advice in the comments section below.


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UL Monroe-Texas Odds
While two of
Oddsmakers from online sports book SPORTSBETTING.com have made
Two of the marquee games this weekend feature Big 12 South teams when No. 3 Oklahoma faces No. 20 BYU and No. 9 Oklahoma State hosts No. 13 Georgia.
"This week you need to get back to just the game of the week with Louisiana-Monroe," Brown said. "Charlie Weatherbie is the coach. He's been there for six years. They're a spread offense. They're all over the place with multiple formations."
While Brown is focusing on this week, it may be in the back of his mind what happened to
The Longhorns, who lost out on a chance to play for the BCS title, could be hampered by their soft non-conference schedule, particularly if
"I've got so many things that are real to worry about," Brown said. "I sure don't worry about what I can't control."
One player Brown doesn't have to worry about is quarterback Colt McCoy. The signal-caller was the runner-up to
The four-year starter is eager to get the new season started.
"Last year is gone, we don't focus on that anymore, but at the same time we don't really want to change up anything that we did because we were successful," McCoy said. "We just want to be a little bit better. I feel like the seniors have stepped up this year and taken that role like the seniors did last year and kept the ball rolling. It's looking good."
McCoy could have an improved running game if Vondrell McGee, named the starting running back, lives up to Brown's billing. McGee has gained 724 yards and failed to score a touchdown over two seasons, but a knee injury in last year's opener was a reason he was limited to 376 yards.
"I think our fans are going to see a different Vondrell Saturday," Brown said. "We're really impressed with his patience and his toughness and his conditioning."
Texas lost some major talent on defense in Brian Orakpo, Roy Miller and Henry Melton - all selected in the first three rounds of the NFL draft. Defensive end Sam Acho and linebacker Roddrick Muckelroy will anchor the new-look unit.
"A lot of these guys played when Rak (Orakpo) and Roy and Henry were in the rotation," Muckelroy said. "There is really nothing new to them. They just need to go out there and play."
Louisiana-Monroe has 18 seniors this season, as well as 10 returning starters on defense and eight on offense. The Warhawks have gained motivation from being picked to finish seventh in the Sun Belt.
"I think that we have a heck of a team coming back with a lot of seniors and a lot of starters returning," Weatherbie said. "This gives the guys something to shoot for. It's going to be an interesting season in the league and anybody can beat anybody on any given Saturday."
Betting Trends:
Key Player Injuries
No significant injuries.
No significant injuries.
Posted: 9/1/09 3:13PM ET