Bizarre Trip

After watching the Flying Scotsman before I went home for Christmas, I decided to get more into biking to and from places. My goal is to bike to and from the bar review class that starts next week. It is about 4 miles away, so it shouldn't be that much trouble. In the meantime, I have been biking to and from and store, post office and just around the area. Today, on the homestretch to my house, I heard what was the beginning of a bizarre afternoon in the Little Italy/Mission Hills area. A woman, perhaps in her 40s, walking hand-in-hand with a small girl, said to the girl, "What you're doing is worse than cussing [swearing]. You are beginning to talk like me." I didn't realize this would be the start of my interesting afternoon. 

I showered and headed down to the liquor store just kitty corner to my house. On the walk over there I was talking to my mom about my loan repayment situation. You see, conveniently before I entered law school I signed a lengthy consolidation agreement to lock in my undergrad loans at a single, fixed rate. What I didn't realize was that I was waiving the post-graduation deferment period. Accordingly I have to start paying my undergrad loans in two weeks. The worst part is that my lender no longer offers bar-prep loans (or many other lenders for that matter). So during a time when I have no income and cannot obtain a loan, I have to start repaying my loans. A very cruel situation. 

My mom asked me how much the total of the sum of the consolidated loans was. I stated it was $24,000. I didn't realize that standing directly next to me was a bum/transient/hobo/vagrant. By the time I had crossed the street, he said, "Don't worry, I didn't steal your wallet." I hadn't given him any bad looks and I guess he didn't notice my bum/transient/hobo/vagrant beard that I had grown. What gives?

At the liquor store, the attendant asked if he could split the 12-pack of beer with me, as he had just turned on a football game. I said I wish I could stay but I have to watch the game at home. He replied, "Well, have a good new year then." I've noticed this year more than any other, people have offered this salutation. Maybe they are excited about Obama coming into office? Starting a new economic year? Had a good Christmas? Nonetheless, I have always said warm greetings and good manners go a long ways. 

Finally, when I exited the market, another bum/transient/hobo/vagrant made a comment about my beer. He said, "must be a football game on." I said, "Yeah. Go Ducks." To which he replied, "You gots to get drunk man, gots to get drunk. Have a good new year!" There it was again! Maybe there is hope for that little girl after all...

Recommended Songs:

Free Fallin' (live) - John Mayer

Track 4 - Sigur Ros

7/4 (Shoreline) - Broken Social Scene

Missing Items

DVDs:

Matrix Trilogy (yes, all three)

Se7en (pretty sure Jordon had it last)

The Prestige

I heart Huckabees

The Dark Knight

Arrested Development-Season 1 (Tim)

Books:

Areas of My Expertise (Maller)

Some book on magic (Erin)

Audacity of Hope (Jordon def has this one)

Jihad: History of Radical Islam (Mariam)

Sojourn

I don't specifically remember anything peculiar about my flight into Oregon, except that I was lucky to be flying into Eugene and not Portland. My family made it out of the Portland area, but only after grinding down I-5 with snow chains. I did, however, have lunch at the San Francisco airport. And for some reason I always go to the Boudin Bakery and get clam chowder in a bread bowl. I could claim that it is only a San Francisco thing, but I often get the exact same thing here in San Diego at the Boudin Bakery. 

On the return trip though, many notable things happened. For starters, when the Chargers game was 'flexed' to the Sunday night game, I decided to fly standby in hopes of catching the entire game, rather than flying during it. Accordingly, I got on an early flight into San Francisco and decided to watch the game on my layover. On the flight down, the couple in the seats opposite of me had sat down in the wrong seats when someone confronted them. They said they thought they were in their row, which was 2. Now I understand someone miss counting or miss reading a sign, but when you are in the second row, it is pretty easy to find - right behind the right. 

At the San Francisco terminal, I decided to head down to the international wing to catch the game. I figured international travelers wold probably be less interested, and thus less crowd, the bar areas in the international wing. I also love being in the international wings. It is just so exciting looking at people and planes that will soon be in far off places like Auckland, Taipei and Mumbai. It is really amazing how small our world has become and the sheer mobility provided by airports. Yet my clever plan to watch the game was foiled when the venues with TVs were showing the Sound of Music. Although I had a weird craving to watch the movie that I was forced to watch when I was young, I needed to watch the big game. 

So I headed back to the Yankee Pier grille, which, although spendy, had a good TV and an open seat at the bar for me. I stupidly drank Coors Light (kind-of implicitly supporting the Broncos) and had the fish tacos, which were actually very good. When my tacos arrived, a kid in a SF Giants jacket asked me what they were. He soon ordered the same and sat down next to me, placing his McDonalds to-go salad on his lap (presumably for his girlfriend/sister). He asked the bar for a Hennessey, and when they did not have it, he ordered Courvosier. Actually he ordered a double. After downing that, he asked if they had any cabernet. The bartender held up two bottles, and the kid asked 'which is better.' The better cabernet he tried, and ordered a glass - when she told him it was $16 a glass - whereas the house was only $10. After he ordered the house cabernet, his food was ready and apparently it was his time to go. So he pounded the glass of wine and looked at his bill - which was over $50. If it wasn't near Christmas I would think it very dubious that he paid with a $100 bill. The Christmas gift was confirmed when he only tipped just over $5, or 10%. 

Once the Chargers started blowing out the Broncos, I saw a man in the restaurant grow visibly upset. It was the idiot who sat in row three on the plane. Go figure. 

When I arrived in San Diego, I received a call from United. Apparently my original flight from San Francisco had been cancelled. Providence or coincidence?

Cue Graduation Song

I suppose it is better to be overprepared for a final, although I shouldn't care how well I did on my final final. The professor told us it would be mostly essay and take 4 hours. It ended up being multiple choice and lasting 2 hours. I think my senioritis came last semester though, as this semester was one of my most studious and most attentive. Maybe spring semesters are easier to get senioritis than fall semesters because the summer is so close and graduation is really a end-of-spring event. Nonetheless, my 7.5 years at USD (minus one) have come to an end. I started out as a small boy in room 333 of Maher Hall. At the end of the jouney, I am now a small boy living in a dance studio near Little Italy.



Here are some of the memories:

Freshman year in Maher Hall: Going to TJ with Eric and the Hawkins brothers

Sophomore year in the Vistas: Editor-in-Chief and formal in Vegas

Junior year in Italy and PB: Coming home to parties at Parker Place and Madeline

Senior year at Santa Clara: Our Christmas card and that house

1L in Tustin: Balboa Peninsula and getting my Civic

2L at La Mirage: Homecoming festivities and NYC

3L at Hazard Center: The fires and a brief addiction to a video game

3.5L in dance studio: Alaska and Ireland



It was a good run. I at least doubled my earning potential (hopefully) by obtaining a law degree. I did not choose my first degree wisely. I did, however, make many great friends (in undergrad - I didn't really talk to anyone in law school). I did not find a soul mate, like many people did at USD. But my time will come sometime, somewhere. Nearly 1/3 of my life has been spent at USD. And all of the life that I do know has been spent in formal education. After the bar exam I will enter the full-time working world. From what everyone has told me, it is not that great.

Week-end Update

After my first final I went to the Third Eye Blind concert at the JCP (Jenny Craig Pavillion for all you non-Toreros). I consider myself an actual fan of the band, as I am familiar with more songs than just "Semi-Charmed Life" (although I do love that song). The show was very good, except for the fact that they only played one song on the encore. Perhaps because I am older, or in the middle of finals, it is amazing how clearly I see how ridiculous people are. Just like the USD vs. SDSU game, I expected kids to be drunk or high because thats what kids do in undergrad. I did not expect this concert to be a romantic event for couples. Now maybe because some of the couples were drunk, they were all smoochy. But I did not know that the music of Third Eye Blind can be bumped and grinded to. This also makes it pretty awkward for people around them.

I am really considering starting a campaign to create a parking violation for diagonal parking. You know, when that that asshole takes up two spaces with his one vehicle (normally a big ass truck or tricked out Japanese car). I don't see any reason why this should not be a violation and why it could not be enforced. By taking up two spots, these individuals are defeating the purpose of lined parking spaces, effectively reducing the efficiency of the parking lot. Although there is no safety rationale for this regulation, the time restrictions placed on parking spots serve an efficiency purpose: by limiting the time a vehicle can be parked in a space, more individuals will have access. This diagonal parking violation would serve the same function.

While studying in the law library, I have found an enjoyable hobby: yelling at people. Just like a hall monitor, I have been cracking down on individuals who do not respect the silence standards of the library. The first incident was a woman who was 'dropping her son's bag off.' I knew this because not only was she talking at full voice level on her cell phone, but the volume was also so loud that I could hear the person on the other end. After several minutes of this mother being inconsiderate of studying students, I let a "DO YOU MIND" rip. The second significant incident was when I heard "American Boy" as a ringtone blasting. This individual went further though, and started chatting up the caller. I soon directed at her "STOP" and after she refused, "SILENCE," which worked. On my last day of studying I heard another student take up my mantle, offering a "GO OUTSIDE" to a group of girls. Looks like I left a legacy.

Picking Up the Slack...

...since Chad is lacking in time to post.

What I am about to write is controversial (and stirred quite the heated debate with my boss the other day) and will hopefully not compel Chad to ban me as a future guest blogger. As I went to buy my little brother tickets to Bruins game for Christmas, I was reminded of something that always irritated me when reading through the program before a Redsox game: massive sports salaries. I tend to look at salary worthiness in terms of job importance. The President of the United States earns an annual salary of $400,000 while Pedro Martinez earns ~12 million each year. Indisputably, the POTUS has one of the most important jobs in the world, while Pedro's job is dispensable. I understand that the salary of the President is paid by taxpayers while the salaries of sports stars are paid by GMs, making rational choices, and advertising revenue. I also acknowledge that players earning these astronomical salaries are "superhuman" beings of athletic superiority. I still think that paying players millions is unnecessary and, in some ways, takes some of the fun out of the game (as does trading players just to have the best team). I try to look at this issue from a logic and facts-based position but I always hark back to principled benevolence. It would be nice if some of the benefits came back to the average families trying to take their kids to see their sports idols. I think I would be satisfied if kids ate for free at games…or if there were games where children (<12) could attend for free. Bureaucrats and polititians still aspire to the Presidency regardless of the salary. Would sports players be less motivated to excel in their field if they knew the max salary would be capped at, say, $1 million?

What happens in Washington, goes global
Welcome to America...err...Switzerland, now speak english

Rivalry

I wasn't sure if I would be blogging much this week, due to finals, but this weekend presented a few good topics to discuss. 

First, I found myself on Saturday evening at SDSU, for the USD vs. SDSU basketball game. Somehow I had never been to Cox Arena before and was actually quite impressed with the facility. The USD fans occupied only one small section of the arena, a slice of 'Founders' blue in a black and red pizza. Unfortunately where the crust would be of our slice were SDSU students. They were right behind the USD fans and concordantly were heckling all of us. Those remarks included calling us pretty boys and that daddy was paying for our school. I'm sure if I was in undergrad, within walking distance from the Arena, I too would be intoxicated and spouting off horse manure. The entire crowd (mostly students) also had some organized cheers for us, including ones about kicking our asses and also the simple 'USD Sucks' yell. One student walked past us with a sign - 'sucking is a sin.' Unfortunately our basketball team did not make things easier, as they lost by 11 points. Most amusing of all though was not only Monty Montezuma, but also a midget luchador (wrestler). I'm not sure what his relation was to Aztec basketball, but it was entertaining to watch. 

Finally, I have always been intrigued by the old Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. My sister and I would always used to say, per Augutus Glump, "Let me in there I'm starving." Of course the story is interesting and the movie was good for children, but "I was more interested in what bark is made of." I could never figure out what time period or country the film was supposed to take place in. There is an eery ambiguity to the entire film, one that adds to the fantastical nature of the entire thing. The only reference to a timer period were the cars, which suggest it was probably in the 1970s. As for where it took place, it had to be either the U.S. or Britain. There is a mix of Americans and Brits, however, many of the structures and geographical features suggest it is probably on the other side of the pond. Most importantly, what exactly happened to that entire cast? Obviously Gene Wilder moved on, but I have never heard anything about the rest of the cast. Kind of like Luke Skywalker. 

Last Day of Class

After finding a space in the structure, I found myself walking to campus behind a blonde sorority girl. Very fitting for my last day of class at USD. This girl had exited her BMW, custom license plate "MANNDAZ" with a gamma phi beta license plate frame. Her tote bag was, of course, a G PHI B bag. Most notable was that she was eating cereal out of a red keg cup. Oh how those days are now past me.

On a side note, I am disgusted that The Vista - my former child - now has a Fashion section. I likely will be writing a raging letter to the editor about this (along with some other issues I have with the newspaper). More has also been revealed about Sarah Palin's stylist and wardrobe. Although I think the prices paid were ridiculous for each of these, I suppose it could somehow be justified on political reasons, considering the sheer amount of money wasted on each political campaign. My issue, however, with this news is that stating that it will be donated to charity misses the point. I mean, what value does a $300 pair of pants have to a charity recipient. I'm sure it has about $30 worth of value to them. Or less. Accordingly, there is an incredible amount of value lost. So don't try to justify overpriced purchases by giving them to charity.

Back to school...

Caught up in my finishing of school (not finishing school) and getting a new phone, I completely blanked that the December graduate reception was last night. In class I checked the emails, to see how formal of an event it would be: "This is an upscale reception with a photographer present so please dress accordingly." Of course (and for me, really, of course because this shit always happens to me), I was wearing my Converse, jeans, Obey t-shirt (looked like a prison inmate w/ black and white stripes) and a hoodie. Such things have never stopped me though. So I pressed onward into the event, however, nothing memorable is to note. Save perhaps that the photographer had a formal studio set up for cap and gown photos. I was declined the opportunity since I did not have a shirt and tie on.


I heard a bizarre commercial on the radio on the drive home - it was for a company that sells sheepskin boots. What was so strange was the peaceful sheep sounds playing in the background - not exactly tasteful for a sheepskin commercial. Shortly thereafter I saw a shirtless man (transient/hobo/bum) pushing a shopping cart along the street. When I passed I saw that he was also not wearing any pants. Maybe he was doing laundry.

The Great Debate

The hours are counting down until my phone upgrade becomes available with AT&T (although I am still bound to them until April). As many of you have seen recently, after the death of my sweet ass sweet Motorola Razr I have been using Tim O'Leary's old phone, a Nokia Beast. It's not actually called a Beast but lets just say its a newer version of Zach Morris' cell phone. I have two major complaints with the Beast: it takes forever (4eva) to send and receive a text message and the golf game on the phone is incredibly hard. Like, some of the holes are literally impossible. Thus, I eagerly await my phone upgrade tomorrow.

I have been pondering whether to get an iPhone or a Blackberry. As a very 'anti' person I naturally have not had an affinity to either of these products. However, I do see their practical use, particularly with my professional career right around the corner. The Blackberry is obviously a staple of the professional world, comes with navigation and has Blackberry instant messenger. It is also NOT an iPhone. The iPhone is being used more and more by businesses, also has navigation, and has many cool applications. It is also NOT a Blackberry. After a few weeks of interrogatories, I have decided to go with the iPhone. People seem to generally be happier with it.

As this is the final week of classes, students have the opportunity to fill out teacher evals. This is a chance to either appropriately praise or raze a professor or just apathetically fill in the bubbles. Although I do take the filling in the bubbles portion seriously, I rarely actually fill in the writing section on the back. Notably, my Negotiation professor (adjunct) bought us pizza before we were to fill out evals. Am I corrupt because I gave him a few higher marks? Maybe. But I was hungry. The few times I have felt compelled to fill in the writing section, I have done it thoroughly. I have praised some professors because I wanted to encourage them to continue their practice. On other occassions, I have ripped the professor a new you-know-what. It might be that most people are apathetic or too nice to leave a negative remark (even though it is anonymous) but I however do not refrain. I let them have it.

There and Back Again (A Hobbit's Tale)

My mom loaded me up with 'duplicate' groceries that she had and those items ended up being the story of the day. The sun was rising as I crossed the state border, and with it held a long day ahead of me. 

Just past the actual border, there is an inspection station on the California side. (An interesting note here is the location of the federal inspection station nearly 40 miles north of the Mexican border. I never understood why it was so far away.) The state border patrol normally asks you if you are bringing in any fruit products into California, which you must dispose of. My parents always used to say, 'just these two' - referring to my sister and I. Today, however, would be different. As I approached I grabbed the banana peel that remained after my breakfast and held it out the window. The border patrol agent though, was interested in the rest of my groceries. She peer into my window and saw a package of sugar my mom had sent with me - and asked if I could show her the contents. Now I'm not sure if there is much trafficking of cocaine via the state of Oregon, but this seemed strange. After she tasted the sweet (literally) powder, she let me be on my way. 

I fueled up in a fabled city: Yreka. My favorite thing about it is the fact that Yreka Bakery backwards is Yreka Bakery. A palindrome. My least favorite memory of the city is me scoring an own goal in a soccer game. But hey, I was not about to let the girl on the other team (only one I have ever played against) score on our team. I guess I would rather score on my own team then let her have the glory. 

About 300 miles north of Los Angeles, the holiday traffic kicked in. When my gas light came on I was looking forward to a refueling-pee-meal break. I did not expect the exit to be so crowded though. There was a line at all three of the gas stations, so I pulled into the restaurant/Chevron to take a pee and grab something to eat. Further to my surprise, there was a lengthy line to use the bathroom. Around 10 guys in the men's line and around 30 for the women's line. By the time I was done and looking to fill up, the Chevron system had gone down, sending the fuel-less mass in a panic to get to the other stations. I survived though. 

After a long delay in LA traffic, I reached Orange County where I stopped for a bite to eat with my friend Erick, who works at Saks Fifth Avenue in South Coast Plaza. I wasn't sure if they were going to let me into the store, as I was in my adidas top, sweats and Nikes. I found him though and we headed over to Claim Jumpers. By the way do not order their sausage and pepperoni pizza, as it is just a greasy mess. Back at Saks, Erick handed me a few items that I had lent him and I proceeding to do some customer terrorizing. Perhaps it was the 14 hours that I had just spent in a car that augmented my disdain for overpriced merchandise. I pointed out how ridiculous the price of some Converse shoes were ($95-100), especially compared to my recent $30 purchase of similar ones at Factory Brand Shoes. As I pointed this out, the few customers who overheard me soon put down their selections and walked away. Erick wanted to show me some Louis Vuitton items he wanted - no kidding. In the mini-Louis store in Saks I went on a rant about how terrible their products were and how the leather they used was inferior to many brands. The employees were disgusted. 

When I arrived at home I grabbed the groceries to take into the house. However, I dropped one of the sacks and heard a bottle break. A large bottle of Worcestershire sauce. And it ruined my best bag of groceries. All I was left with was the flour, sugar and canned items. I was so exhausted at this point that I just threw all of the contaminated good into the street. Now it looks like a body was dragged out of my car. It was a long day. 

The Deep South (of Oregon)

Well I just saw a new Guitar Hero commercial that just showed off that drums, microphone and alternative guitar are available for the game - pretty much Rock Band. Although that is def cool, I was shocked to see Michael Phelps in the same video as Kobe, Jeter and Tony Hawk. The biggest goober on the planet, he should only be used to emphasize athletic products, never anything supposed to be 'cool.'

I don't get to watch a whole bunch of daytime TV, so the past few days have been a change. The usual technical-college commercials are still being aired, as well as other infomercials. One set of commercials that I have always tried to figure out is the coins for sale. You know, the limited-edition U.S. mint silver or gold coins. The 9/11 memorialization or the Obama election coins or the Morgan silver dollars. I presume people are thinking that they are making some investment with the purchase of these coins. But if they follow their thoughts to conclusion, they would see that if they were really a worthy investment, then why would anyone be selling them? In the end they will realize that these coins are completely worthless. Likely only worth the value of the melted material and not the face value of the tender. 

I see that my hometown has continued to grow. There is a new lane on the freeway (up to three now)! There is a Sonic drive-in. There is a brand-new Walgreens. And there is now a Home Depot. The only closed venue I saw was the strip bar, Wild Bills (formerly known as Cowgirls). I guess the economy hit that industry here hard. Now there is one less thing to do at night here. 

Tyler Durden: "Things you own, end up owning you." 

Links of the Day:

Growing Up

John Hodgman's new book

The case against monogamy

The Long Driver (not golf)

After a quick shower, I grabbed a half-carafe of OJ and a handful of strawberry cereal bars for the road. I departed at 4:30 AM for my date with the freeway that has been a part of my entire life: Interstate 5. In the end, without any caffeine, and after only stopping twice, I conquered her in 12 hours. 

Here are some of the highlights:

California: I tried to make it through LA before traffic, but unfortunately there was an accident near Magic Mountain that blocked all but one lane. Once I got past Bakersfield, I saw an advertisement for the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, which brought back memories of being a child. I remember the stairways and doors that went nowhere. I did see that Oregon has a "Mystery Vortex" which I have no clue what it is. Maybe the toilets flush the opposite direction. Road signs for Yosemite tempted me to head east and go camping, but of course I had no equipment. After a Wal-Mart truck pulled out in front of me for many, many miles I started talking to myself - this was about 8 hours in. Finally, Mount Shasta and Lake Shasta were very pleasant sites to see as I entered northern California. 

Oregon: Before entering Oregon I saw the beloved State of Jefferson sign. A long-established movement for the southern part of Oregon and the far-north of California to forth their own (conservative state). I see that they have a website now www.jeffersonstate.com When I wanted to listen to the radio in most of California, there was an abundance of radio stations. Yet when I got to Oregon, there were very few. And most are religious stations. Unfortunately, in contrast to Paul's suggestion, they were not playing any Christmas songs. Also in contrast to California is the mother-fucking speed limit. California is mostly 70, whereas Oregon is either 55 or 65. Terrible. 

In common: Fog and darkness at the beginning and the end of the trip. People who drive in the fast lane and somehow think they are going fast enough, even with people piled up behind them and passing on the right. I found this particularly common with handicap drivers, old people and people on their cell phones. 

Anyone know how to 'adopt a highway' and get your name on it?

Briefs

For the past $2, the Chevron station by my house has consistently been cheaper than the Mobil station. I'm sure it is just a franchise but this highlights how terrible Exxon-Mobil is. I should actually sack up and drive across the street because I keep filling up at Mobil because it is easier.

Have you ever noticed that odd number sounds are negative? Andrew (Boylan) was arguing that a single clap means something bad. (We were confused that he was clapping for something bad.) I've noticed this with honking as well. If you honk once or three times, it usually is bad. But a two or four time honk means something friendly. 

I've been watching the show Californication on Showtime, which I will simply describe as completely sexual. I should have realized the difference between Californiacation (the Chili Pepper's album) and Californication (California plus fornication).

It appears the winner of the James Bond poll is Daniel Craig. I presume this is because he is the current Bond and a fresh adaptation to the series. Most people would argue that Sean Connery is the best ever, as the original in the hay-days. I voted for Roger Moore because I thought no one else would, but apparently one other did. 

Links of the Day:

National Image

Iraq Withdrawal

Cheque

Last night the Graduate Student Council put on a tailgate for the graduate schools (law, nursing and business). Although the Mexican food was mediocre, I know that it is the best USD's dining services has to offer. At least there was free premium beer. The Council was also handing out free water bottles and t-shirts at the check in desk. The only problem with the t-shirts was that they were all 2XL. Similar to the one I received for my study abroad program this summer. Next up is the Dean's social mixer on Thursday night - Thanksgiving dinner!

I've been noticing at the grocery store the continued use of checks by shoppers. This seems rather amazing. In our modern day of free debit cards from our banks (as well as online transactions), I am continually surprised to see checks being used. (Granted I still write a check each month for rent.) The problem with using them at the grocery store is how terribly they slow the line. Have to write out the exact amount, have to show your driver's license, have to scan the check - it all takes too long. I do understand that some people like the leeway it gives your bank account in waiting for the check to clear, but that should only be just before payday. I also do understand that the older generation perhaps is not adept at using debits cards. Nonetheless I do hope that checks become extinct soon enough, at least to save the paper and time.

Links of the Day:
Mustaches
Monopoly

Loud 'N Clear

Well I just saw this completely absurd commercial and would like to point out just how ridiculous it is:

1) This 'sound amplifier' (aka hearing aid) looks exactly like a bluetooth headset. There are already enough complaints about people using bluetooths, looking like cyborgs. Whenever someone doesn't take their bluetooth off at a social setting, it generally pisses people off, because, well, it's rude. Just try not looking awkward while wearing Loud N' Clear at bingo, a party, a card game, church or IN BED.

 

2) 'Turns ordinary hearing into extraordinary hearing!' Even though the woman could not hear what the trump suit was was from the man sitting directly next to her. 

3) 'Can hear conversations from across the street!' OK this is definitely where the commercial gets creepy. First, a woman overhears her neighbors from across the street. Then, the mother listens to her kids from across the playground. Granted the second example might somehow be acceptable, the first absolutely is not. 

4) 'Ever wonder what people are saying when you can't hear them? With Loud N' Clear, you can discreetly listen in.' Not much I can really say besides creepy. 

5) 'Lets you hear the wildlife before they hear you.' Well I hope you don't get mauled by a bear you hearing-aid reject freak. 

Hands Free

Although I do not like eggs, I suppose I can stand the sight/smell of most of them. Except hard boiled eggs. And probably deviled eggs - which are similar to hard boiled eggs? I don't know that answer. Is it just me or do hard boiled eggs smell like rotten eggs? I wouldn't mind if someone prepared them and then ate them right away, but when they are left in the fridge it just makes everything stink. Like onions. But instead of the smell of onions it is of rotten eggs. Maybe it's just me.

As of July 1 of this year, the use of cell phones in cars was supposed to be resticted. However, I continue to see cell phones being used (illegally?). I understand that people might quickly use the phone or even put it on speakerphone, and indeed I have seen much less use of the actual phone. The use of bluetooth headsets has also increased dramatically. Perhaps because of my commute to Solana Beach every other day for work I get the opportunity to see many drivers in action. I wonder if the people using their cell phones know of the law or are just risking getting caught. My understanding was that it was a no-tolerance rule accompanied with a $100 fine. I don't personally enjoy using a bluetooth or putting my phone on speakerphone, but I do understand the point of the law. How does everyone else feel about it?

And yes, I want to know what kind of fruit would you be and why? I am sticking to my original answer of orange: because I love orange juice, I love vitamin C and I love cookies, which you can use the orange rinds to make. (So in essence you can use all parts of it.) And I love an orange slice in my Blue moon.

Links of the Day:
Consumerism
Onion Nation

The Great Shakeout

So the Great Southern California Shakeout occurred yesterday morning at 10 am. I had received two emails, a phone call and a text message informing about it. There were numerous signs around campus. Supposedly 400,000 people participated in it in the San Diego region. Unfortunately, against Jon's hopes, free milkshakes were not being handed out. It was an earthquake test. At 10 am a voice came over the intercom "encouraging" everyone to participate. The Great Shakeout ended at 10:01 am. A great success?

Whether I go running at the bay or the beach or around the harbor, I always see bums. My copy of The Areas of My Expertise has been commandeered by someone, so I am without my list of 700 hobo names. Thats the beauty of bums, the variety of names: bums, hobos, tramps and my personal favorite, transients. Southern California is probably a good place to be a bum: the weather is warm and the people have money. However, I have begun to notice that bums are getting too tan. Beacuse they are outside, literally all the time, they are getting way too many ultra-violet rays. So in the future I hope there is an outreach mission to these individuals, to provide them with sunscreen. It is sad enough they are living outside, without soap, often in the warmth of their own urine. We can at least offer them some sunscreen.

Poll Results: As the week has come to an end it appears that placing neither peanut butter or bread in the fridge has the largest vote. This, of course, is the correct answer because it is what I chose. I do however, understand the need to put some organic peanut butter in the fridge. I can also see the need to save bread longer by refrigerating it. However, overall they both need to be kept out of the fridge. No one wants hard bread or difficult to spread peanut butter.

Links of the Day:
Internet vs. Books
The Rich

Toys-R-Us

The installation of our new cable came on election day, and with it, the end the political TV-watching season. Well, I guess I do still watch the news in the morning. Nick and I had AT&T internet before and we had a great rate, so I suggested to Tim that we search for internet and cable alternatives to our very antiquated Cox. There is nothing wrong with shopping around for better deals - that is the beauty of competition. The end result for us was better internet and an enormous selection of channels. Now there is no need to watch politics, as I have a vast array of sports or movies to watch. Nonetheless, this so-called 'bar exam' looms over my head, demanding my attention.


Eric brought up a good point about coupons/rebates/gift cards the other day: when are they worth it? We find coupons on the back of grocery store receipts, in the weekly circulars, and in those nifty student saver booklets. The question is whether it is worth holding on to them just to save $.25 on a box of cereal. Obviously some coupons are worth it (free yogurt at Fiji Yogurt), but where the line is drawn depends upon your circumstances. Buy-one-get-one-free (BOGO according to Payless Shoe Source) coupons often induce you into buying something because, well, you get a second one free. The question is, were you looking to buy that item anyways? Because now you have two. I suppose this would work out for two individuals wanting the same item - or for a family.


As for those tricky little rebates that manufacturers love so much, you will be without your liquid money for some time. I'm not sure if the manufacturers plan on people not filling out the rebates or just benefit from holding on to your money for 26-52 weeks. Finally, gift cards have become more than just free money. They are often an incentive to buy something - although you actually end up spending money while 'saving' money from the use of the gift card. Is there a dollar value that makes a gift card worth it? The company is obviously trying to get you to come and try their products - with hopes that you will enjoy it. If you are unfamiliar with the products this might work - but if you know the venue then you may have to weigh whether it is worth the trip.

Links of the Day:
Climate Change

Dave Chappelle

Busted

I normally don't post on the weekend, but I have two topics that need urgent attention. 

Firstly, whenever I go to Target I always enter and exit through the garden center. It's just less crowded and also parking is easier to find. When I was leaving the garden center today, I saw two security personnel 'hiding' right out side the exit. They actually gave me a pretty good look when I was leaving. I kept walking but soon heard 'hold it right there' (not directed at me). I turned around and saw a guy get LAID OUT by five security personnel (three in uniforms, two in plainclothes). Because it was an amazing site, I walked closer and saw a man, with a hooded jacked (and hood up) and sunglasses on. He said he was only going out to the parking lot to get his wallet, which of course, security knew was false. HILARIOUS. 

My other important topic is dishwasher loading. This has always been an issue with me, always living with roommates. (Unfortunately when I lived by myself I did not have a dishwasher and had to hand-wash everything.) Perhaps I am biased because of how the dishwasher was loaded growing up, but I think my preferences make reasonable sense. Here are the points of controversy and accordingly my rules, which should be followed:

1. Some plastic containers are not supposed to be placed on the lower rack. This is evident by their labeling: TOP RACK ONLY. 

2. Some bigger utensils, like spatulas, big knives and salad serving kitchenware should be placed on the top rack, lying down. They should not be placed in the utensil bin because they are too big and often block the rotation of the blade. 

3. As for the actual utensil bin, utensils should be placed with the food serving area at the bottom. This serves two functions: first, it is closer to the spray of water and accordingly will be cleaned better; second, when you retrieve the utensil, you are able to easily grab the handle and not the food serving area of the utensil. 

Maybe I should ask Obama for a job with the Dishwasher Loading Commission. 

Moving

Last night I watched The Sandlot before heading off to the dreaded three hour bore of Energy Policy. At least now we are talking about renewables and greenhouse emissions. There was a few things I noticed about The Sandlot that were interesting. First, I totally forgot that the boys threw in some chewing tobacco before going on the carnival ride. That is hilarious. I also noticed that the kid's mom is the woman from Indiana Jones (1 and 4). And his dad is Dennis Leary! Finally, I seem to always notice that the way the dog is portrayed as a monster is hilarious. Because, in the end, he is just a big dog that could probably be fended off. It's funny when they show his paw or him jumping over the fence looking like a 400 pound monster.

After Presidential elections I always hear people talking about moving out of the country. Actually I heard that a lot - before the results of this election. It doesn't matter if a Republican or a Democrat gets elected, people 'threaten' to move away. I rarely see anyone actually do it, although I did meet a girl this summer abroad that had after the 2004 election. Sure Europe is great, but are things (or will they get) really that bad here in the States? I presume the current fears are of increased taxes - which won't actually effect most of us - or the 'socialization' of America. The last time I checked the stakeholding in AIG and the 'socialization' of Wall Street came under President Bush's direction. Ultimately this all doesn't matter. All that we know and appreciate of this country will survive. Presidents change. Policies change. Attitudes and beliefs change. In the end the basic principles set up by our founding fathers remain the base of this country: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

While traveling around the world I appreciate things about many countries, but I end up loving everything that we have here. Furthermore, the rest of the world wants to come to America. Although this country is unfamiliar to them, they still see how great it is. No matter who the President is.

Links of the Day:
fivethirtyeight
Insane People

Lavarse Sus Manos

Maybe this is too many bathroom-related blogs, but I have always wanted to do a study on the percent of people who actually wash their hands after using the bathroom. Everyone always makes a big deal about whether you washed your hands or not, and I think a deeper inquiry into the reasons why is necessary. Obviously the bathroom is full of germs, but no more than a handrail on an escalator. Now with the advent of the automatic flush on toilets, some men may only touch the door and their package while in a bathroom. Is their own unit so unclean that they need to wash their hands everytime? Then there is the further argument about using hand sanitizers and making your body weak against germs. All of these are interesting issues that probably could be developed into an entire paper.

As one of the main areas my firm practices is environmental and land use regulation, our principal was set to go over the relevant propositions with the entire firm. For some reason he was not prepared at our staff meeting and I subsequently missed on his information session (if it did occur). However, my Energy Policy class did get maybe four minutes to discuss the propositions. Props 7 and 10, known as Big Wind and Big Solar respectively, are both poorly worded propositions. I always find it interesting to see who are the backers and the opponents of propositions. Similarly, I like to see who the newspapers have endorsed. Reading the actual text of the proposition, it appears that neither of them would achieve what they appear to present. For example, the rebates for those driving hybrids actually only applies to diesel-hybrids. So, using my same voting philosophy, I would vote No on these propositions because they don't do enough to get a Yes vote.

Links of the Day:
Evangelical Teen Pregnancy
Flying Cars

Mumbo. Jumbo. I am hungry. Go get me some eggs or something.

So I stopped by Target to look at two possibilities for Halloween: the makings of a Ken (Street Fighter) costume or any mask. I was thinking about how on Halloween it doesn't matter what you look like so you can simply just wear a mask and walk around. The other weekend at Universal Studios I was wondering what the expression was on individual's faces who were scaring guests. I mean, were they laughing undernearth (probably what I would do) or were they enjoying it, in a sinister way? Nonetheless after looking at some of the gory masks at Party City I could not see myself enjoying wearing such a costume.

I was hopeful that the Blazers would be good this season, but they looked pretty pathetic last night against the Lakers. Granted the Lakers are certainly stacked and the Blazers are very young, but they did look terrible. I need the Ducks to regain our state pride by crushing the Cal Bears on Saturday.

Unfortunately I am not able to take a position on Prop 2. And when in doubt, I suppose the rule is either to vote no or to abstain. The proponents of Prop 2 are seeking to improve the treatment of farm animals, specifically chickens. The proposition would require farm animals to not be kept in confinement (cages) where they cannot turn around or sit down. This certainly appeals to those concerned with being humane to animals. Those against the proposition argue that it will increase costs of farm products (eggs) or in the alternative suppliers will resort to distribution from Mexico. Notable here is the fact that California receives less than half of its eggs from within the state. Furthermore, I suppose it is not fair for me to voice an opinion, as we all know that I do not like eggs. Like Fox News, I report, you decide.

Links of the Day:
Relationship Sex
Failed Attempts to Kill the President(s)

Mawage. Mawage is wot bwings us togeder tooday.

I'm not sure what it is like in the womens' bathrooms at finer evening venues, but in the mens' room there usually is a towel-hander-outer. This is always a great discussion piece, as people have various opinions on how to react to such a person. Many people feel like they are providing a service and thus they should tip them. In fact, the venues believe that they are offering customers a luxury. For me, I never tip - unless I take some gum or get cologne or have exceptional service. I just feel that I didn't really ask for a person to hand me a paper towel and in fact, in such a personal place as the bathroom, I would prefer to do it myself. There are probably a lot of suckers out there who always tip or do so when drunk and thus the business will stay alive. Otherwise I don't feel awkward not dropping any bills in their jars while their boomboxes pump out the jams in the watering hole.

Moving from a non-partisan proposition to a completely conflicted one, I think it is time to discuss Prop 8. Prop 8 is a California constitutional amendment that would limit the definition of marriage to only that between one man and one woman. Obviously this could be one of the longest discussions ever, so I will attempt to keep this as concise and succint as possible. On legal grounds I suppose you could argue that marriage is a state-defined right and that due to separation of church and state, no religious or moral considerations should be considered. However, the proponents of the proposition have been clever enough to phrase it as "traditional marriage." Nonetheless, have we not moved past previous 'traditions' in our nations history. Proponents also argue that it will somehow be taught in school. The ridiculous commercial states that it was somehow 'taught' in the second grade. I'm sure this is an exaggeration. My response is what actually is the harm in promoting same-sex couples? Our society would become more tolerant and so many people would not have to live in fear of being who they really are.

Some people say that the institution of marriage will be undermined if we let same-sex couples marry. My response is that since when has marriage been about an external definition and not an internal one. Are we getting married to show the world or are we doing it to commit ourselves deeply to someone else? Why should we deprive anyone of this right if it is so, well, personal? Religious and moral definitions may continue on, but the state should not limit the right for individuals to marry.

Vote No.

Links of the Day:
Quack. Quack, Quack
Guantanamo

Props, Bro

In my neighborhood, parking is tight during the evening-dining hours. Thus, when I get home between 4 and 5 I can usually find a spot. We have two parking spots at our house but there are four of us. I presumed that the implicit rule was "try to get a spot on the street first and if no success, then park in the garage or driveway." However, I am finding this more and more dubious. I have noticed that my roommates just go straight for the garage or the driveway. I know this because when I leave shortly after they arrive, I notice the presence of available parking spots. I suppose this could be classified as selfishness or laziness. I know sometimes when I'm tired that I would rather just pull in and pack up. Yet the choice to be selfish has other practical effects. First, it makes the others feel like the only way they will ever get to park there is if they act the same way. This is a vicious cycle. Second, this creates a hostile mindset for those who later struggle to find parking (as I found myself last night). It is easy to become upset when you see someone take a garage/driveway spot when a street spot is open - and then you later cannot find any spot. 

As I have promised several people to comment about ballot measures/propositions I must begin today with a non-partisan one: Prop D. Although this is only a San Diego measure, anyone who ever comes to San Diego will be affected by it. This proposition is to continue the ban on alcohol at the beach. After the one-year provisional ban, it is now up to the people to vote to either keep the ban or lift it. I am probably preaching to the choir in asking you to vote No on this, but I thought I would mention it, at least to get a non-partisan proposition on the table. 

Links of the Day:

The Muslim Next Door

Economics

Providence or Coincidence?

Alright so the bluetooth was actually user error. I apparently had accidentally unpaired the headset from the phone. Unfortunately, my phone is pretty much dead - permanently. Using both a wall plug-in and a car charger, I could not get my phone to charge up. Luckily Tim has offered me an old Nokia to keep me alive (wow) until December 4, when my contract is up.

Well I had a blast this weekend. Although the golfing endeavor on Saturday was a complete disaster, I still had a lot of fun. Brief description of Meadow Lark or something like that golf course: 90-minute tee time delay, 4-hours for nine holes (apparently just a slow course) and the course itself was in terrible condition.

Universal Studios at night was also great. The back lot tour was the weakest point while the rides and the Halloween mazes were very good. The format for theme parks at Halloween is often the same: fog/smoke, clowns with chainsaws, dead people sliding, dead people with blades, and everyone jumping out at you. I always wonder if those people are laughing under their masks (after all it is fun to scare people) or if they are actually morbid and somehow get off on it. Scariest of all was the live-actor Chucky character. Probably followed by the crazy pig-men with chainsaws.

What exactly is the point of fingernails? I mean, do they really need to grow out? I am also interested in what makes them grow faster or slower.

Links of the Day:
Airport Security
Fareed (warning: Obama endorsement)

Spaghetti on the Wall

Something I notice on the drive today - and I may be totally off on this - is that more liberals than conservatives actually put stickers on their car. This has two aspects: the actual presence of stickers and actually putting stickers on the outside of vehicles. Firstly, for a conservative area such as San Diego I expected to see more McCain stickers. I know that this is a bad time for Republicans due to W, but the election is still close. Secondly, today I saw a McCain sticker on the inside of a car window. Then I remember that my parents do the same exact thing. Does this have to do with 'preserving' the vehicle for resale, thus a conservative idealogue. I mean, the sticker could leave residue on the car. Liberals in contrast are more easy going, not caring about their belongings? However, as my father knows, there is goo-be-gone cleaners that gets rid of that stuff. I know from experience.

I keep hearing - at least from Fox News - that the media is 'biased' because they don't treat the two political parties the same. In particular they point out to a survey comparing jokes about the GOP to those about the Democrats. However, that fails to consider that this isn't an area that can be treated equally. That would entail both parties to each have equally funny/make funable policies, statements, characters, etc. I'm sure during the Clinton presidency that the Media had way more jokes about the Dems than the Repubs. It's just the ebb and flow of politics.

Well my new bluetooth headset has stopped working. I lost my old Motorola one at Pizza Port maybe a month ago so I decided to buy a $20 at Staples. The brand is Jabra - so you are forewarned. However, the headset has stopped working - at least properly. Hopefully I can exchange it at Staples because the documents that came with the headset - along with the website - are not helpful.


Links of the Day:

Warren Buffet

Dog Thoughts

Islam & Christianity

Killer

As I search for a parking spot on campus, I realized that there really isn't a universal sign to tell someone you're not leaving. While looking for a parking space, people who are leaving normally signal for someone to follow them. But the inverse is not true - there is not such an easy symbol. I normally do the quick hand across throat - kind of a throat slitting but with my fingers instead of my thumb - to let them know that I am not leaving. Perhaps if we start using the same sign, it will become the universal symbol. 

Last night Al invited me to tag along for the Taste of La Jolla. The admission ticket got us a 'taste' of a bunch of the venues in the La Jolla area. As I have never been to any venue in La Jolla, I was eager to see them all in one sitting (or walking) I understand that there are similar events in Little Italy as well as downtown. If those are as enjoyable as this one, then I recommend attending. My only complaint was that the time (2.5 hours) was really not long enough to get to over 20 venues. 

Review

The Cottage: This is where it started. Simple appetizers and wine for purchase. 

Extreme Pizza: Had several pizzas out for sampling. Pretty much what I expected from a pizza place. 

Zenbu: I have heard that their sushi is very good, but unfortunately when we arrived all they had was tuna - which I do not care for. 

Tapenade: My apologies to Jordon, but I was very disappointed in his place of employment. The venue looked beautiful but there was no one there. And we were quickly shuffled to a single employee scooping cups of soup. While the soup was good, I felt shafted on any authentic experience. 

Ja Jolla Brew House: They were greedy. They tried to participate in the Taste of La Jolla and still have the venue open for Cleveland Browns fans. While I could tell the Brew House would be enjoyable, I thought they overreached. 

Bull & Bear: This tiny bar and grille had appetizers and pasta ready for 'tasters.' The football game was on but the set up still provided for an enjoyable experience. Unfortunately the bar did not have much as far as draft beer. 

Azul La Jolla: I thought this set up felt a little forced - kind of like a food court. The mini-burgers looked gourmet and tasty, but of course they forgot to prepare any sans cheese. 

La Valencia: Winner of the night. Set-up, atmosphere and food were amazing. The line to get the amazing seafood paella was short while a nearby refreshment line was readily available. The atmosphere felt warm and the staff was friendly. This is what I would expect of such an event.

Gelateria Frizzante: The rumors had been that the owner was reminiscent of the soup Nazi on Seinfeld. And indeed he seemed to be concerned mostly with customers not touching the glass. Unfortunately the options of gelato were limited to six, and the staff seemed to only be interested in getting us in and out. 

Sushi on the Rocks: No one was even out to manage the samplings. 

Sweet Shoppe: Very friendly staff and let us sample all of the gelato. The gelato was much better than the Gelateria - or maybe because we had a choice in what flavor we wanted. The grab bag they handed out was mediocre, but I realize that they couldn't give out their best candy. 

Nine-Ten: With five minutes left, we were denied entrance to Nine-Ten, a previous employer of Jordon. Poor form. If you agree to participate in a fundraiser, don't cut the already short time even shorter. 

Cold Stone: Although not unique to La Jolla (or even California) I wanted to point out the exceptional service I received. The options of ice cream were limited to only one - oatmeal cookie batter. However, the single employee's hard work and attitude were a huge plus. I presume that someone probably called in sick because they knew they wouldn't receive many tips for all the work. 

Links of the Day:

The Future

Star Trek

Jimmy Eat World

Just stopped by CVS Drugstore to load up on meds. I'm pretty sure I have a sinus infection so I bought some Airbone, Zicam and Dayquil/Nyquil. I've always been a fan of Nyquil, but that is for red-eye flights. Likewise Airbone I have always been a fan of. Damn. I forgot how good grapefruit flavor is. I just went with the original, which is still not bad. As for Zicam I have just recently been introduced to it by my mom. I didn't realize that there is a multitude of forms it can be taken in. I have had the nasal swabs and went with the nasal spray this time. They seem like they would be the most efficient, in comparison to the chewables or lozenges.

I always find it amusing when people start their day off with a 44oz fountain drink. I presume this is their substitute for coffee but doesn't that seem completely unhealthy to start your day off with that much carbonated water?

While I am talking about healthcare, I had a thought about Obama's 'universal' or 'socialized' or whatever you want to call it plan. Particularly in the area of ambulances. To my understandings the ambulance industry is completely laissez faire. Thus, the current market price for anytime you call on an ambulance is $_____ (too much). I'm wondering with the healthcare industry (including insurance and pharmaceuticals) gradually become more regulated ('socialized' for those fearing change) how the ambulance industry will come out. Thoughts?

Links of the Day:
Education of Elites
Nobel Prize

Audacity

I always find it interesting when students walk in late to class. Sometimes they will be a few minutes late, while other times they walk in significantly late. For a 75-minute class, I'm not sure the point of coming to class after the 30-minute mark. Likewise, when I went to see Burn After Reading, a 90-minute flick, a couple walked in 40 minutes late. What are these people thinking? Is parking really that bad? Was there actually a traffic accident? At what point is it OK to walk in late versus when a person should decide just to accept the facts and miss the event? Maybe for me, when I am significantly late, I simply accept that perhaps it was not meant to be.


Today I forgot my cell phone at home. So I won't see it until 8:30 tonight. I've been pondering a lot about whether I should get an iPhone. You see, I do need a new phone. My current razor is from the Cingular days and has been passing out on me (versus actually dying). The problem with an iPhone is that it, like the Blackberry, is really only useful if you use the Internet. I'm sure I would find it useful, but I already think that I am on the Internet too much each day. I mean, how much of our lives needs to revolve around (almost supported by) technology? In Europe I rarely used my phone, and carried it with me only for emergency purposes. It is days like today, when I don't have my phone, that I get to see the true necessity of these technologies.

Links of the Day:
Bill Gates
U.S. News Rankings

Harvey Danger

Last night I watched  a special on the CW (I think) that was entitled, "Greatest Magic Secrets - Finally Revealed" or something to that extent. The show did reveal a lot of magic tricks. I'm still not sure how Criss Angel does all of his stuff though. David Blaine likewise. This show was a little weird though, as the 'magician' wore a full head mask, like a scary Halloween costume. I don't know if that was for his protection, as he was revealing many a magician's core tricks. At the same time I was flipping back to a Paper Rock Scissors (PRS) tournament televised on FoxSports. Last summer I learned of the sport while I was in DC. Apparently now the bigger tournaments are televised and there is even a world championship. The winner of this particular tournament won $50,000. I'm sure there is some science to the sport, although with only three possibilities - the science cannot be that deep. Nonetheless I recommend watching the broadcast, as the commentators are quite entertaining. 

The 60 Minutes episode this week was good, with segments on the shadow market (default swaps), the Delta Force squad sent to kill bin Laden and the electric car. The final segment got me thinking about other ways to encourage fuel efficiency and discourage the opposite. I came up with the idea of smaller parking spaces. Every once in a while you will see a 'compact' parking space. I think there needs to be more of them. Along with this, there needs to be stricter enforcement. No more letting people park in two spots or create spots. You see, if big SUVs and trucks want to park at the store, they should have to park in the back of the lot. Of course, this would hurt large families - but population control should also be in mind. It is another utilitarian theory. 

Links of the Day:

Supreme Court

The Center

Flashes Before Your Eyes

I notice that a guy on top of the new UC building at USD is welding, which reminds me of my deteriorating eyesight. You see, I have done two things that probably have severely damaged my eyes. First, and I will admit it, when my good friend was dating a girl who worked at a tanning salon, she let us try out the tanning booths. I asked her if I needed goggles or anything and she said no. She didn't inform me that she meant to keep your eyes shut. So for the few minutes that I was in the booth I stared at my reflection in the glass. I guess that is very bad to do. Secondly, when I was in Guatemala we built a new school in San Antonio Aguas Caliente. There I learned, after several minutes of staring at the welding sparks, that you are not supposed to look at the light without eye protection. Well at least I didn't stare at the sun with binoculars (while wearing baby oil). 

I think tonight will be a make or break for the McCain-Palin ticket, unless they have some October surprise. There is so much build up to this debate and it will probably have more viewership than the McCain-Obama debate. Palin still appears to hold some rock stock popularity, although perhaps because people find her recent media appearances as entertaining rather than politically informative. I think on her own she could do fine, but she has had so much jammed into her head that she is thinking too much about what she is supposed to say. One thing that I like about Obama is also that he thinks about what to say before he says it. The difference in intellect between the two though is at least evidenced by their academic credentials. 

Links of the Day:

Warren Buffet (my theory of conscientious cyclical capitalism in action - social contract)

WNBA

Culture Wars

I just had a great conversation with one of the firm managers during my lunch break. She invited my response on the current financial situation of the nation.

We got to the point of discussing personal responsibility. And not just the executives, but all the way down to the mortgagees or the insurance agents. Personal responsibility is a staple of most conservative fiscal policies. I then branched off to show how the U.S. compares to cultures abroad. It appears our society has become so caught up in the rat race that we only think about getting ahead. People think that they deserve the American dream and often work hard to achieve it. If it is slightly out of reach they, well, often overreach.

The international perspective I like to use is that Americans live to work while the rest of the world works to live. At least from my international experience, I have found this to be true. People are satisfied with having just enough, but are also satisfied with familial and social relationships. Americans define themselves so much on their career and home that they often forget the satisfaction of being blessed with family and friends. The perfect example is the annual winner of the happiest nation survey: Denmark. The surveyors found out that the people of Denmark are happiest because they set moderate standards. Not low or high, but reasonably attainable. That is why I think it is so important for people to travel abroad: to be able to compare our view of life to the rest of the worlds. If we don't envy theirs, then we will often appreciate what we do have.

She also made a point about the solution of tapping into our oil reserves here at home. She said that is like when you max out a credit card, the solution being to open another one. I agree that our domestic oil supply will not be the solution. But I do think that our modern day technology will not have a significant adverse effect on the environment. What is most important here is her point - to get out of this situation we can't keep consuming (at least not oil). Otherwise our finite supply will firstly become even more expensive (less supply more demand) and then be completely gone. Better travel now!

Links of the Day:
Awesome Video
Addicted to Debt

Janja

There is much news since my last post. Most notably sports scores along with the survival of our nation. I see that the current movement is to re-categorize the bailout as a rescue. While I do understand that it would be a rescue of our financial (market) stability, I think that many Americans still see it as letting a bunch of greedy, irresponsible corporate managers off the hook. That's why, although each day the market falls Congress is to blame, I'm glad they are at least being conscientious and taking a hard look at the legislation. I just don't understand why after a failed vote on Monday, the next time the House can meet again to vote is Thursday. Shouldn't they be working around the clock, when the U.S. and world markets are tumbling?

The Ducks and Chargers won this weekend. The Ducks big over Wazzu (not WaMu, the now defunct bank). But the Chargers barely squirmed by the Raiders. At least LT looked like his former self in the fourth quarter. Meanwhile the Padres somehow managed less than 100 losses this season: 99.  

I have been noticing that more guys have buzz cuts nowadays. Although I did buzz my head earlier this summer (for my trip), I'm not sure how good it looks on me. A buzz cut by far is the most enjoyable, as it requires the least management. Perhaps I will flip a coin and let fate decide. 

I think I'm starting to like reggae music for some reason. I used to think it was for lazy pot smokers but a certain affinity with the music has grown with me. I guess maybe it helps me take my mind off of things and relax. 

Links of the day:

Passwords

Greed

Tannens

Although it is obvious who I favor and am voting for in the upcoming election, I have tried not to be too biased, at least with respect to this blog. For instance, I do think that the Obama ad trying to depict McCain as 'out of touch' because he can't use a computer, was a little tasteless. (Joe Biden agreed but then backed down.) There might be some debate of his physical abilities and technical know-how but I think those are very petty things, not to mention irrelevant. I'm not sure any of the Presidents have been technology experts and just because Obama does know how to use it doesn't make him a better candidate. 

On the other hand I have been thinking about how Republicans have tried to portray Obama as 'The One' or 'The Messiah.' An interesting thought about this depiction is whether they are trying to paint him as the Anti-Christ. Traditional Christian doctrine states that the Anti-Christ will be loved by many, and will be a great speaker who can woo the masses. The Republicans have tried to portray Obama as a celebrity and someone who is all talk and no walk. The reason for trying to depict him as the Anti-Christ would be to scare people - that is, that he is really evil and will bring about the end of times. However, what they completely fail to realize is that if they try to subvert the coming of the Anti-Christ, they are changing God's plan. I mean, if you believe in God, and believe he has a plan for this world, then wouldn't you want that plan to accordingly follow through? I'm not saying they need to vote for Obama, but if they do think that he is the second coming of 'The One' or 'The Messiah' then a McCain victory would distinguish God's plan. I just thought this was interesting to ponder. 

Last night in my Negotiation class, my professor lectured on Ethics, which ended up being rather boring. Maybe it was because I had worked all day and didn't want to sit in class (normally we get to negotiate) but in the end we got out 30 minutes early, which I was fine with. Unfortunately when boredom sets in, the Internet becomes your friends. My two colleagues that sit in my row started playing some online games while I perused The Onion. At the moment I found this link, I busted up laughing and almost embarrassed myself in the lecture. No matter how many times I tell myself not to go to The Onion in class, I still do. 

Links of the Day:

Handguns

Hillary

Redneck

The Chargers are back! After two final-minute losses they got their act together and rolled the Jets. I would say Favre should have stayed retired but former Oregon QB Kellen Clemens had an interception on one of the few plays he was in on. Or maybe that attests to the domination of the Chargers. 

I had the opportunity to watch the game at Point Loma Sports Grille and Bar (or some variation of those words), where we were fortunately invited to enjoy the game in the 'back room.' The back room was nice leather couches with two flat screens and perhaps a degree or two too cold of air conditioning. Not exactly the sports bar feel but definitely enjoyable for watching a football game (no HD on the TVs is a recommended fix). More importantly though, the food service was terrible. I'm not sure if it was the back room or just the server, but it took around 90 minutes to get our food. 

On my way to work or school I have to get on the freeway, and at my onramp there is a traffic signal. Something I continue to notice is that people do not pay attention to the accompanying signage. The specific example at my onramp is that a green light permits two cars to get onto the freeway. For some reason, I don't know if it is language mastery or just plain non-attentiveness by drivers, I often see only one car enter the freeway on a green light. Of course this is frustrating for any of us, as we all are always in a hurry. 

Today I have the lovely pleasure of getting my fingerprints done at a Live Scan station. My Moral Character application will be complete and sent to the California bar later today. As I once heard a professor say, this "bar is very different and infinitely less fun." 

Links of the Day: 

Global Electoral College

75 Books Every Man Should Read

Aromas

Well the U.S. government just bailed us out. The markets look stable. I'm glad we can keep printing more money - only to make it worthless compared with other currency. Actually I do think this is a good thing - consider the situation if the entire market crashed.

So I have heard some interesting conversations around campus this last week. One that I remember were some kids in the bookstore talking about their area of studies, specifically, whether to 'minor' or not. When one student said he would be double majoring, the other said they were thinking about having two minors. What??? Later I heard two girls in the deli discussing how 'confusing' the trolley system is. You mean the three different lines that go a possibility of two directions each?

In direct correlation (to diminishing intellectual capacity) is an article I read in the Atlantic Monthly, entitled "Is Google making us stupid?" Although the availability of getting information (without our brains having to retain it) so easily might make Google a culprit, the article was aimed at how much of our time (and brains) is rotted away because of the Internet. My class of 2012 experience might be a perfect example of this hypothesis.

I did see Burn after Reading last night. Definitely entertaining. Brad Pitt ("Chad") was very good. The movie was a little short, running only around 90 minutes. I think I've been watching too much Lost, as I tried to analyze every conversation and detail. Not really necessary to enjoy this film.

Links of the day:
U.S. Courts
Don't hear much about Cuba being hit by the hurricanes...

The Riddler

Ha! Before I even begin to write this post I love my title. It reminds me of how I want the candidates to start using the phrase, "Riddle me this" before they say anything.

The reason I did title this The Riddler though, was because I drew a whole bunch of question marks on someone's hamburger buns in my house. You see, I saw them untouched in our pantry for about three weeks and finally decided to check them out. Of course they had become white and moldy. So I put them in plain sight and drew question marks all over them. The culprit apparently either didn't confess or didn't see them, as they remained there for three days.

So the stock market/wall street is all messed up. I really wish I understood how all of that works but its just beyond me right now. I guess I'm glad I don't have any stocks or anything. I will say that I predicted gas prices will fall, particularly to a low point around Nov. 4. I have also been saying that capitalism has perhaps passed its peak. I'm no economist, but I do read The Economist. In the end, I believe it comes down to a balancing act of government regulation and free-markets. Otherwise, the only restriction on free-markets is conscience. And I don't necessarily trust most people. Although I should.

Yesterday was a little cloudy, and apparently that somehow translates into Ugg season at USD again. Riddle me this, how the hell are those boots still in style?

Links of the Day:
Obama's Gmail
Wall Street

Swim Cop

So my weekend was busy and I am already tired and looking forward to next weekend.

After the Padres game on Friday we watched the Pat Green concert. I was very impressed and it was pretty cool when Jake Peavy came on stage and played a couple songs with the band. Poor guy has a great ERA but a terrible record. Padres have always needed run support.

Saturday looked like the end of the Ducks perfect season but they somehow came back and won in double-OT. However, they are down to their 3rd, 4th and 5th string quarterbacks for the next 2-4 weeks. All I will say about the sodding Chargers game is that the officials technically made the right calls. Yes, it does seem completely unfair and the Charger's harmony in the universe is now tipping in their favor. Hopefully there will be an investigation into the malfunctioning of the replay equipment (fail-gate).

Counting Crows cancelled on Saturday night but Augustana and Maroon 5 played a good show in their stead. Tim's secret back way into Coors (now Cricket) was a great success. Only complaint was three drunk women listening to an iPod and singing out (very) loud (in Spanish) during the Augustana opening act.

Tina Fey was awesome as Sarah Palin. Michael Phelps was terrible at being anything but a swimmer.

New today in my world is wearing my watch on my right wrist. Not sure if this has to do with my desire to be left handed or just for a change, but I like it so far. My right wrist is bigger than my left one though. Something that always bothers me about wearing a watch is using a keyboard and mouse. The watch always seems to either be uncomfortable in that position or ends up scratching everything up.

Links of the day:
Economy
Who the hell is Pat Green?

Scrumdidilliumscious

Food Review (week of 9/7-9/14):
I normally don't eat out as often as I did this week, so I thought I would recap.

Pizza Port - always good. Shark Attack beer was not only strong but also tasty.
Chilis - After overwhelming lines at Phil's BBQ and OG (The Olive Garden), I tried those 'sliders' mini-burgers. Thumbs down. Although I don't like anything on my hamburger, I was disappointed to see that nothing came on these burgers. Or if there was, it was too 'mini' for me to see.
Starlite - didn't eat here but their bourbon and ginger beer special drink is good.
Santanas - California burrito as good as always. Except the price
Petco - $4 hotdog, you get what you expect. For some reason I ate it without any condiments.
Pei Wei - orange peel chicken a delight without the time/expense of PF Changs. Snow peas this time were much bigger than normal.
Aunt Jemima's Buttermilk Pancake and Waffle Mix - fired up the waffle iron for a frugal breakfast...and was pleased.
Tom and Janette's home cooking - chicken wings and pulled pork sandwiches were bomb.com

Shannon (Boone's sister, not Ireland)

Now that the sodding University took out the Torero Grille, there are very few options for lunch and dinner (on the law school side). Because I had already eaten in the Deli for lunch, I decided to drive down to good ol' Santanas for a California burrito. To my dismay, the prices have again increased. I remember in 2001 when a California burrito was $4.00. Now it is $5.00. I didn't realize inflation was growing that fast.

So my energy law and policy class is incredibly boring. Which sucks because I was really excited for it. All the professors have done in the first three weeks is talk about the history of the electricity and natural gas markets. BORING. Get to the good stuff.

But it did get me thinking about paper topics. Actually I keep hearing about the largest transfer of wealth - our consumption of oil. Thus, we are funding our enemies - the 'terrorists.' But did people forget about how the 'terrorists' are funded in Afghanistan? POPPY PLANTS. What about our addiction to opium? How about you give up that morphine or codeine?


Links of the day:
Burn After Reading
9/11

French Press

The weekend before I had somehow whooped up on Tim at pool. The table at Basic must be a king size, because it is huge. Nonetheless I somehow pulled off winning six games before finally losing. I thought to myself, maybe I'm good because I play so much "Midnight Pool" on my phone. 

You see, when I go number two I either play Midnight Pool or Bejeweled. For some reason my phone often locks up so I always put it on airplane mode. Not sure if other people suffer similar results. Yesterday I realized one of my pet peeves is people who just pull away at bathroom stall doors. In general I try to see people's feet first, before I take a pull at the door. Again, not sure if this is normal or abnormal. But I do know that many bathroom doors are not well secured and a careless tug at the door could lead to an embarrassing moment. 

As I was walking up to campus today I saw two tow-trucks pull in. Apparently the Alcala Bazaar is today so no one can be parked on Marian Way. As the tow-trucks were preparing to haul away, a young USD employee pulled up, and without any compassion, instructed the trucks to tow away all of the cars on the street. Have mercy. 

Link of the day: 

Videos

Election 

Cowboys

I was worried in class after I got a call from USD and my mom within a few minutes. Unfortunately the class is three hours long and we don't get a break. So I finally listened to the voicemails at 8:30. Turns out I left my wallet in the computer lab. 

Having class at 5:30 makes eating dinner difficult. Accordingly last night I didn't eat until after class. I (unwisely) decided to get some Mexican at Lucha Libre. Unwise because even after brushing my teeth and using mouthwash my mouth still tastes like Mexican, even this morning. Their drink selection is not that great, but I decided to venture out and try strawberry Fanta. Not bad but it probably didn't help me sleep. 

I've been thinking about the geographic irony of American politics. I mean, a big issue for Republicans is national security. Yet the red states, at least geographically are not targets for terrorist attacks. The biggest cities and the biggest targets are all blue states (New York, DC, Chicago, California). Even Hawaii, which suffered the attacks on Pearl Harbor, is blue. Maybe an argument could be made that Florida would be a target. For the most part though, all of the red states would not be terrorist targets. 

Links of the day: 

Brains

Browser

Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds

I hadn't had breakfast so I stopped at Jamba Juice and decided to try one of their 'breakfast' drinks, which are smoothies mixed with 'organic' granola. You have to eat it with a spoon. It was actually pretty good but I don't suggest getting the 'fresh' bananas for .50 extra, as you get maybe 5 slices.

Before my afternoon class I ordered my iced americano and saw the 'barista' (Aromas employee-pashaw) topping it off with the cappucino foam. At that moment I had to choose between taking the americano as is (which I was fine with) or having the barista learn a lesson. I went with the latter.

After class I walked to my car in the law school lot and saw a confrontation. Apparently the girl that was parked next to me had back into a car and was not going to stop or leave a note. A student was yelling at her, explaing the situation. I'm not sure if she was foreign, but she didn't seem that concerned although her car and the other car were damaged. I saw that I couldn't pull out until the confrontation was over, so I headed over to the bookstore to pick up my remaining 'book.' I put book in quotes because its just a xeroxed packet. This one, conviently, is over 500 pages and accordingly ran me $67.

I watched the 60 Minutes from Sunday, which had features on Obama/Biden as well one on aerial bombing by the U.S. in Afghanistan. I strongly suggest the second feature if you ever get the chance. Finally, I see that Obama has agreed to be interviewed by Bill O'Reilly on Thursday. Should be interesting.

Links of the day:
Serious
Funny