Well, ready of not here's the latest Joe Bob review. As of yesterday they haven't posted my first one yet, even though my smiling (if bearded) face is there in the Reviewer section. This makes four down, if anybody is keeping track, with four more already sitting on the dining room table to be read. *sigh*

IN THE FOREST – by Edna O’Brien
Mariner Books; ISBN: 0-618-33965-5

Michen O’Kane lost his mother at a young age. His uncaring and rough father didn’t have much use for the boy and young Mich soon finds himself getting into mischief. It wasn’t long before he was sent off to St. Malachi’s, a ‘detention center’ for juveniles. It was there Michen suffered abuse and torture at the hands of both older boys and the guards, who were supposed to protect him. He couldn’t even turn to the priests, since some of them were more than happy to use a naïve boy for their own desires. You can hardly blame Michen for becoming a ‘monster’ in later life.

Mich hears voices and sees visions. The ‘horned’ man who walks beside him tells him to do things and sometimes he cannot resist. O’Kane is tormented by the ‘worms’ that eat at his brain and cause him to laugh or cry hysterically. Gradually growing more and more out of control it is only a matter of time before he does something horrible. The ‘horned’ man wants blood and Mich will not deny him.

O’Brien has taken an actual crime (or rather a series of crimes) and created a haunting work. She has brought to life not only O’Kane, but also the members of his family, those in the village who are terrified of him and the people whose lives he will eventually take. His victims are not faceless, since we come to know these people and are horrified when their paths cross O’Kane’s.

The story takes place in the Irish countryside, which O’Brien brings to life and almost turns it into a character. The woods and fields both tempt and threaten those who enter them. In the end it appears that there may indeed be something in the woods that talked to young Michen, as he slept amongst their branches as a child. Something that may not have gone with O’Kane to meet his final fate but remains to touch others.

I have to admit to initially being annoyed and sometimes confused by O’Brien’s style. A different character tells each chapter and the point of view rapidly changes from that of O’Kane to that of his victims. We sometimes see the same incident from several perspectives, plus O’Kane himself doesn’t seem able, at times, to actually tell reality from the madness that gradually overcomes him.

*********************
It really was difficult to get into the book, after the first couple of chapters. The book's initial focus is O'Kane and when it shifts to others it through me. In retrospect, I really did find the book fascinating, though obviously not the style I generally appreciate.

First, O’Brien makes us feel sympathy for the young Michen and then shows us the evil of which he is capable. Even after we witness his madness and the horrors he inflicts we can’t help but still feel sadness at what he has become. It’s never clear, even at the end if Mich was truly mad or was using madness as a guise for his twisted desires. Three stars.

Just a couple of quick comments before work.

I was amazed yesterday to discover that the Dunkin Donuts muffin I enjoy many mornings uses more Weight Watcher points then a ham & cheese omelet. Guess Donna and I will be trying to get up a bit early and have a bowl of cereral before heading out. :-)

I'm sure that there will be a number of Blog and 'net postings on the deaths of David Brinley and Gregory Peck. Both were widely respected in their fields and have deserved the awards they received during their lives. I never met either, but both had a certain class that seems to be missing from the actors and newsmen who followed in their footsteps. In neither case are we likely to see men like them again.

Well, we actually did it! Donna and I went to our first Weight Watchers meeting, signed up for one of the programs and picked up all sorts of freebies. As time goes by I'll keep you informed.

In case you're wondering I weighed in at 255.4 lbs. To be honest, I've actually been more than that at times, so I was surprised that it wasn't higher. I know that I'll never be down to what they say is the 'ideal' weight, since I don't think I was at that point except during my early Navy days. Then you had to maintain a certain 'body fat' ratio and be able to do other physical activities, or be put through a special program. It was easier to keep to a certain weight when you had that 'incentive.' :-)

As I said to Donna, I think the meetings will get to me before the dieting. I've never been comfortable in groups of folks I don't know and certainly would not feel good about talking about my diet, etc. to a bunch of strangers. I understand the whole motivational ascpect of the meetings, but I couldn't help but roll my eyes during some of it. Like I said I'll keep everyone abreast of how things are going.

Today is going to be a bitch, since I have to start keeping track of my 'points' as I plan each meal. *sigh* The whole point thing is going to be a pain.

Since Donna was sick, this past weekend, we decided to cancel our plans to head into Brooklyn and stuck close to home. I went shopping on Saturday and swung by the local Tommy K's (the videostore chain) to pick up some movies.

Donna had enjoyed the first HARRY POTTER film, so we watched the second, which we both really enjoyed. I had to explain a few things (as I'd read the book and there's no 'what has gone before' for newbies), but otherwise I think she pretty much followed the whole thing. As reviewers at the time said, it is darker than the first film, but so was the book and each succeeding novel does move towards a moodier style. The second film continues in doing a great job of bringing the books to life. After seeing the first one, I found that I could easily imagine the actors from the film while reading the fourth book.

As time goes on I think some parents may consider seeing the film before bringing their kids. The fourth book has at least one off-camera murder and the riot after the Quidditch match, will make for some disturbing moments for the youngest in the theatre. (Can't wait to see that and some of the creepier things from the third book, when the next film comes out.)

We also saw CATCH ME, IF YOU CAN which was a lot of fun. In some ways it is kind of old-fashioned, and both DeCaprio and Hanks are really good. It's also easy to see why Walken got the Oscar nomination. Solid acting all around! I'd definetely recommend this for DVD or video viewing, since it really works on the small screen, IMHO.

Hanks is great and it's easy to see from this and ROAD TO PERDITION that he can play a wide diversity of roles. The man continues to amaze me with his range. Neither these of films really portray him in the totally sympathetic light one would expect. It will be interesting to see him in the up-coming Coen Bros. remake of the Peter Seller/Alec Guinnes film, LADY KILLERS. I wonder which role he'll be playing?

On other fronts, it actually appears to have stopped raining for a day or so. I couldn't be happier.

Oh and if I have time tomorrow, I'll let you know how things go tonight. Donna and I plan on actually fulfilling our mutual pledge to join Weight Watchers. Stay tuned!

Well, while they haven't as yet posted any of my reviews (I've completed and made requested changes to three) they have posted my photo and brief auto-bio over on the Joe Bob site. Go over and check me out with the other Reviewers.

By the way, I haven't had the beard for almost four years now. The photo was taken back in '97 or '98, when I was still working for the Brooklyn Public Library. As I recall somebody was leaving and the pic was shot at their party. I do still have the t-shirt. :-)

Nothing beats being payed to go to seminars and conferences! Not only do you get a break from the normal workaday routine, but you have a chance to meet folks who you may have only 'known' as a voice on the phone or from the e-mail.

I spent most of yesterday (Wed. 6/4) at Yale University. Despite our proximity I've never actually been to Yale and have hardly had any experience at all in New Haven either, except to head down to the main trainstation. To be honest, when I think of New Haven my memories aren't that hot to begin with.

Back in 1969 it was where I was first inducted into the Armed Forces. Eighteen and scared out of my wits, we were grouped together and put on a train to be shuttled off to Whitehall Street in NYC, from there we were sent off to the various Naval Recruit Training Centers around the U.S. The other time was to visit my mother who was undergoing treatment for cancer at the Yale-New Haven Hospital. I can't tell you the number of times I spent hours sitting in the old railroad station (a huge ugly barn of a building, before a major renovation a few years ago) waiting for trains to take me back to my current command. Nah, New Haven doesn't sit well in my memories.

Still, despite the dismal weather, the seminar itself was pleasant and I actually did learn some useful things which I hope to put to good use. We are updating our Circulation/Acquisition system here at UNH this summer and it was nice to get a heads up on some of the things I can expect.

Since Donna was in Brooklyn on Saturday night as well, I decided, rather than spend money on videos again, to see what the Boob Tube had to offer. Fortunately, the SCI FI channel was showing some of those great (IMHO) 'nature goes bad' movies. In this case two different takes on "giant spiders."

Now, let me be up front on this.... I'm completely creeped out by regular 'find them in your backyard or in the corner of the room' type spiders, so why I'm driven to watch automobile sized ones is beyond me. Hell, I thought EIGHT-LEGGED FREAKS was one last years BEST movies, so don't expect much in the way of indepth reviewing.

I think the films show two different ways of going at much the same subject, one of them badly and other with at least some attempt at story and acting.

SPIDERS (2000) - Is aimed at the usual teen market for this kind of thing. Lana Parrilla (who has appeared in NBC's current series, BOOMTOWN and also as a regular on SPIN CITY for it's last season) plays 'Marci Eyre' a college student and reporter for the school newspaper. Discovering that 'mysterious things' may be happening at a laboratory on campus and and several others find that the government is growing giant spiders which they hope to turn into weapons. Frankly, I didn't realize that FBI agents were put in charge of such things and could also, apparently with no fear or reprimand, shoot solders in the head for 'disobeying orders.' I guess I must have missed that back in Basic Training when I was in the service. You can pretty much guess who is going to end up webbed and sucked dry or used as eggsacks. In the end not only does one of the agents (this one a decent guy to rebels against his superior) proves he also happens to be an expert helicopter pilot AND Marci does a great Linda Hamilton/Sigourney Weaver impersonation. Not only does she show she can operate a shoulder-mounted missile launcher, but hanging by a rope dangling several stories up tied to a helicopter at the same. I think she get's extra credit for her faculty advisor for this. This is one of those films you can walk away from and not even wait for the commercials, knowing that you will have missed absolutely nothing.

On the other hand, ARACHNID (2001) appears to have been filmed with primarily Spanish speaking actors, seemingly for a more adult audience. I have to wonder if the movie may have had two different versions, one in English for American video release and the other for international release, either in theatres of video. Chris Potter (who starred in the cable series, QUEER AS FOLK) plays "Valentine" some kind of adventurer/tour guide, hired to lead a scientific expedition into the jungle to discover what had caused the death (by insect/spider) bite of some locals. Maybe the 'on location shooting' in the jungle (The film was released in some countries as AMAZON) adds to the claustrophobic feel. Even though this film like SPIDERS has it's share of characters who you know are doomed from the first reel, you actually do feel some sympathy towards them. You would actually like them to get out alive! The sub-plot of the pilot who brings the group to the island, also being the sister of the Air Force pilot whose encounter with an extra-terrestrial craft brought this all about, does ask the viewer to accept a bit too much coincidence. Still there are actually some really creepy scenes, with the pilot's 'encounter' with her dead brothe especially stand out.

If you have a chance to catch either on cable some boring afternoon, I'd skip SPIDERS and go for ARACHNID. Certainly better than watching some of the crap that COMEDY CENTRAL puts on between reruns of SNL.

Donna had to go into Brooklyn for the weekend and I had Friday off, so it was a perfect day to catch a movie or two. Caught a 1:00pm matinee of MATRIX RELOADED and rented three DVDs for later.

I have to say that I was disappointed in the MATRIX sequel. Of course, knowing that it was the middle installment of a trilogy may have had something to do with it. You kept expecting "TO BE CONTINUED" at any time past the half way point. While the FX are as good, and possibly better, than they were in the original way too much time was spent explaining much we already knew plus stuff that could have been explained clearer and more concisely. It was good to see the original cast back again, though few of the new characters really are that interesting and are cannon fodder as far as I'm concerned. Although I do admit that I liked the Key Maker and would have liked to see more of him.

(TANGENT: Speaking of seeing more of.... You can bet that when this finally shows up on Fox a lot of Keanu will be deleted. :-)

Neo is way TOO powerful this time around and you really have to wonder why, with all his powers, he has to do all that martial arts stuff. A bit at the end seems to indicate that there are still more things he can do that he has yet to realize.

We only have until July to wait, but I'm not sure if I'm going to shell out the money (even $6 for the matinee) after this one. Maybe I'll just wait for the DVD.

STAR TREK: NEMISIS - I watched this early in the day, since I wouldn't be heading out to the movieplex until aroung noon. Like all the better ST films this was like one of the superior episodes of the regular series, blown up big and with a season's worth of FX tossed in. The whole thing had a feeling of both a reunion and a farewell. Various characters seem to be heading to their own fates and you have to wonder if the remaining actors want to put the uniforms and make-up on again.

Patrick Stewart certainly is given more to do and does it better than in either of the X-MEN films. His Picard, like Shatner's Kirk, would never ring half as true in the hands of other actors. On the other hand, I don't think it would be difficult to put someone else into Xavier's floating chair. I have to admit that seeing Stewart driving the buggy in the desert certainly made it clear that he could indeed gleefully bring to life the role of Spider Jerusalem (which he has said in several interviews he would love to do).

You all know the plot from the countless trailers, so I won't bother with that, except to say that the story certainly was more interesting and held together than a couple of the previous attempts to bring together the TNG crew.

FRAILTY - The only other time that actor Bill Paxton set in the director's chair was for the music video FISH HEADS. If this film is any indication I think that Paxton should certainly be given the opportunity again. I don't ever recall hearing about this, but spotted it in the 'Thriller' section of the video store and decided to take a chance. Hell, Ebert gave it a 'thumbs up', so why not?

According to the Internet Movie Database website, this film is not only Paxton's major film directorial debut, but also the first screenplay credit for Brent Hanley. Both gentleman showed themselves more than able for the task. Frailty is a disturbing film, and it's easy to see how it may have not easily found an audience.

The idea is that a man (Bill Paxton in front of the camera this time) suddenly declares to his young sons that he has been visited by God and told to slay demons (who just happen to reside in the bodies of seemingly innocent folks chosen at random). The brothers have different reactions to this 'revelation' by their widowed parent. The older Fenton feels that his father has totally flipped and wants no part of this divine mission, while the younger Adam is more than happy to follow the lead of his father in seeking to do 'god's will.'

The tale is told in flashback, when Fenton (Matthew McConaughey) visits an FBI agent (played nicely by Powers Booth) to reveal that his brother is the serial killer, who calls himself "God's Hand". We see Fenton's growing alarm at what his father has become and his frustrated attempts to bring his younger brother out from under the influence of their Dad.

I really can't say much more, for fear of spoiling some of the impact of the film. If you think you can deal with something disturbing and very, dark I recommend you seek this one out.

When BROTHERHOOD OF THE WOLF (LE PACTE DES LOUPS, 2001) was released in the states, CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON was making waves here, so the PR folks decided to take several scenes of martial arts from the film and basically build the promotional campaign on trying to get the CTHD fans into the theatres. While there are some damned good action scenes the film itself is primarily about the hunt for a 'beast' which roams the French countryside in the 18th century. It's also more than that, as much of the talk centers on the role of the church and the King in the so-called "Age of Enlightenment". For long stretches the 'beast' and the hunt are put in the background as we see the conflicting elements of society dealing with each other. The obscene wealth and corruption of the Upper Classes, as well as their contempt for the lower, and of course for any non-French or non-Europeans.

Into this comes the rather naive Grégoire de Fronsac (Samuel Le Bihan) and his Native American companion Mani (Mark Dacascos, possibly remembered by some as The Crow in the short-lived TV series), who are sent by the Royal Court to investigate, capture and bring to Paris the beast, thereby proving the King's concern and sympathy for his 'people'.

If I was reviewing this for the old Joe Bob newsletter I'd give it the following: 50+ breasts, ax/sword/flaming arrow-fu: Drive-in Academy Award nomination for Monica Bellucci (Persephone in the MATRIX films) as the most beautiful, knife wielding prostitute in all of France. Steve Bob gives it THREE STARS and says "Check it out!"

Whew! I think that about does it for me today! Have a good weekend and save me an aisle seat. :-)



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Apparently Al-Queda is now training squirrels to take on suicide missions. Well, anyway that seems to be what happened earlier today.

Around 6:00am a squirrel bent on self-destruction or just getting out of the rain, made its way into a transformer and took out most of the main campus. The network has been down most of the morning and we've only been able to connect to the 'net for a half hour. I had wanted to post some comments on movies I saw yesterday (both in the theatre and on DVD), but that will have to wait until later, since I really should try and catch up on actually job related stuff first.

Quick look at some current comics.

POWER COMPANY #16 - Kurt Busiek once again totally suprised me. I'd heard rumors that he was going to bring the Haunted Tank into the comic, but I didn't expect this. Also, he has brought back (even if only for an issue or two) one of my all time favorite DCU characters, Baron Winter of Night Force. As with his run on Marvel's THUNDERBOLTS (before somebody decided to totally destroy the title and turn into Fight Club for meta-humans) you can never know what Kurt is going to do with any character.

POWERS #31 - Brian Michael Bendis has me totally confused, but I've enough faith in him to keep reading. A whole issue with no actual dialogue (not counting some grunting and gibberish) and lots of monkey sex. Either the guy is brilliant or his meds didn't kick in that day.

SUPERMAN/BATMAN: GENERATIONS 3 - John Byrne can be both brilliant and infuriating. I have loved each GENERATION series and allthough I see folks nit-picking the series I think he's doing a great job of using many different versions of the major DCU characters. I do wonder if even he is keeping track of everything he has going on here. Definetly a series which will need to be read again when it wraps up.

JSA: ALL-STARS #1 - I love the current JSA series, but wonder if this book will be anything more than a bunch of 'spotlight' segments on the new members. I don't know if this character LEGACY has been around before, but I must say I'm NOT impressed. I'll know better next issue if I'm going to pick up the series.

TITANS/YOUNG JUSTICE: GRADUATION DAY #1 - If I had not been a major fan of YJ I doubt if I would have picked this up at the shop. Peter David had been doing a great job with the kids over in their title, making interesting characters out of both established and original heroes. Sadly, they have decided to hand the thing over to a writer who seems to have no real interest in any of them, but rather is a Titans fan who skimmed a couple of YJ issues. I realize that they are trying to set up some mysterious event which will both launch a couple of new titles (a relaunched TITANS and a revamped OUTSIDERS), but you should at least give us some kind of hint. Also, why bring the Metal Men into the mix for a couple of pages? As with JSA/All-Stars I'm giving this series one more issue to catch my interest, but frankly I'm already leaning towards just peeking at it in the shop and not even bothering.

That does it for now!

Probably should have come on earlier or said it yesterday, but...

HAPPY 100TH BIRTHDAY, BOB HOPE! May not have always cared for your politics, but you certainly brought a lot of laughs into my life. All the Road pictures with Bing, THE LEMON DROP KID (one of my fave Hope films), the USO shows and regular specials. Thanks, indeed, for the memories.

As I've mentioned before I started picking up just about all of the Batman 'family' titles last year, when they were doing the BRUCE WAYNE: MURDERER/FUGITIVE story line. I thought most of the books handled the interconnected story fairly well and it was certainly nice to once again find that the Batman was turning more human (if not exactly normal :-).

I dropped NIGHTWING almost immediately, it's combination of ugly art and incomprehensible (to the new reader) plots held no interest outside the cross-over. I only picked up one issue of AZRAEL, as it was a character created, IMHO, to push the awful KNIGHT FALL storyline which had me dropping the Bat titles to begin with. What I saw didn't change my mind on the book, so I wasn't disappointed (or surprised) to see the book cancelled a few months ago.

The three main Bat-books (BATMAN, DETECTIVE & GOTHAM KNIGHTS) have been up & down quality wise. I enjoyed, surprisingly, the Bane plot line and the re-introduction of Checkmate along with their pursuit of The Huntress. Both ROBIN & BATGIRL continue to be interesting titles and can easily stand alone, as Tim Drake and Cassandra are interesting characters. BIRDS OF PREY has been uneven and, in spite of my LOVE of Black Canary and Barbara Gordon, I don't know that I'll continue to pick up the book. The ending of the Metamorpho story seems like a good point to drop the title.

For the time being I think I'll also stay with the two original Bat books, but drop GK. Also, if DETECTIVE runs another story like the recent Elongated Man x-over, I'll drop that as well. I love seeing Ralph & Sue Debney, but felt that Batman/Matches was really badly done.

GREEN ARROW, HAWKMAN & JSA are probably my favorite current DC titles and I'd certainly recommend all three to fans who may have dropped the DCU from their reading lists. The six part GA/GL crossover actually had me liking Kyle (formerly Crabface Guy). HAWKMAN #15 really shakes things up with the re-introduction of two surprise guest stars. It also does an incredible job of the nearly impossible task of dove-tailing every other incarnation of both lead characters and explaining how one gave way to the next.

I've picked up but have yet to read TITANS/YOUNG JUSTICE: GRADUATION DAY #1 & POWER COMPANY #16, so I'll hold off commenting on either until I have.

I really am on the fence when it comes to Rick Veitch's AQUAMAN series. I like what he's done and appreciate that he at least pays lip service to what others have done before. I think it is going to depend on how he wraps up the current THIRST storyline that leans me toward staying onboard or not. I do want to see how Veitch gets Arthur back to Atlantis and the battle to liberate the city (if not regain the throne). Personally, I'd rather he didn't take up the crown, but remained in the lighthouse, perhaps acting as ambassador to the surface world.

What a nice surprise it was to pick up the latest issue of DOOM PATROL and see the work of one of my favorite artists, Rick Geary, doing a DCU comics (even if not actually taking place in continuity). Even the book's cover lists the titles regular creative team, so I wonder what happened to bring Geary into the mix. Again, I'm sorry to see the book is on the chopping block, but I've been enjoying this latest incarnation of the DP, even after initially fearing the worst. I keep my fingers crossed that somebody will find it in their heart to bring Cliff Steele into another DCU book. My pal, Brian Morris and I have batted around a few ideas and think that Cliff/Robot Man would be a perfect fit over in JSA. He's been around long enough to have met just about all of the heroes currently on the roster and might be a great partnered with Wildcat.

I'm sad to see that Metamorpho is going to be included in the unnecessary new OUTSIDERS. Brian and I also agree that Rex would be a great JSA member as well. Hell, if DC really wanted to do something 'original' with the OUTSIDERS they'd have Rex, Cliff, the Resurrection Man (Michael Shelly),Animal Man and some of the other third-string characters join together. Anything beats creating new (and face it unneeded) characters, including the illegitimate daughter of Black Lighting (created in my mind only to further tarnish Tony Isabella's character so he would want to distant himself from it).

Well, I don't expect anybody else to agree, but this is my Blog after all.

Well, the weather played havoc with our plans for the past weekend. We cancelled our hotel reservations, for the Mystic Marriot, and didn't go down to the Mystic Seaport. We had wanted to hit the Lobsterfest this year and meet up with my best friend, Gerry and his wife.

Donna and I ended up staying home most of the weekend, playing Scrabble, reading and watching some videos we rented.

Speaking of which, I want to recommend both THE ROYAL TENNENBAUMS (a strange comedy, which rightly got some good reviews when it originally came out) and THE ROAD TO PERDITION (in which Tom Hanks and Paul Newman both give solid performances; with Hanks outstanding in a role you would not normally envision him).

If I remember, either later today or tomorrow, I'll have some quick comics reviews. I'm reconsidering my purchases of some titles and think writing my feelings down might urge me one way or the other.

Oh, I know some folks are bothered by the usual Rah-Rah patriotic stuff on Memorial Day, but as a Vietnam Era vet myself I have mixed emotions. I'll never be convinced that the recent Iraqi invasion was justified and certainly have problems with the current drumbeat to head back to take out Iran. However, men & women did put their lives on the line, even if they didn't really understand why they should. You don't take votes in the military, no matter in which county's armed forces you serve. You are expected to do your job and these folks certainly did.

American men & women have fought and died for this country since it was founded and they all deserve a moment of recognition and respect.

Well, I think I'm losing it! I honestly can't recall whether or not I've already posted my review for INTO THE INFERNO (although it was sent off to Joe Bob). Just in case I did screw up and already posted it, my apologies. If this IS the first time I hope you read and enjoy, since the book is definetly recommended.

INTO THE INFERNO – by Earl Emerson; Ballantine Books
ISBN: 0-345-44591-0

If a writer is doing his job properly, he or she will research their topic before writing. Possibly, if they are ‘good writers’ they will speak to people working in the occupations they are writing about and possibly have one of these folks act as an advisor, so they won’t get the little details wrong. Now if these ‘good writers’ are also talented they just might bring a sense of realism to their stories.

Then you have writers like Earl Emerson. Emerson knows his subjects, in this case firefighters, because he himself is a member of the Seattle Fire Department. He knows what it is like to walk into a burning building, with the possibility of not walking back out something that is in the back of his mind. He doesn’t need to talk to an expert, because he lives this every day. Emerson is also a very talented writer and creates a reality in the novels he writes.

Emerson has already created two different series in his almost twenty years of writing professionally. One features private detective Thomas Black and the other fireman/sheriff Mac Fontana. In this work he creates yet another character, much different, perhaps much more flawed than either of his better-known creations.

Jim Swope is a single father of two young daughters. He’s also one of a small number of full-time, paid members of a mostly volunteer fire department in the Pacific Northwest. While he likes to think of himself as a decent man, he is also battling elements of his own past. His mother abandoned him to a religious zealot of a father, who forced the young Jim unto the streets to proselytize. Running away to join the Army, Swope placed both emotional and physical distance between himself and his father. Now the old man spends his last years near comatose in a nearby nursing home, rarely if ever visited by his only son.

Swope awakens one morning to find he back of his hands covered in a waxy coating. He has the first sign of the ‘syndrome’ and has a week until he will surely be no better than his father. How did this happen and can it be stopped?

Beginning the story almost at the last part of the tale, Emerson takes us back to where it started, or at least where Jim enters the picture. Emerson is able to engage the reader almost immediately, throwing us right into the middle of a situation that moves at a rapid pace, but never confuses or loses you along the way. Able to write quiet scenes of a father spending what may be his last hours with his daughters, Emerson can also write horrific scenes of fire and their aftermath.

Emerson fills his tale with a large cast of interesting, if not always likable characters. As the story progresses we begin to find that many of these folks are not who they appeared to be at first. Even Swope is unsure of who he can trust as he tries to unravel the riddle of his last days. Three and a half stars.

If you're a fan of DOONESBURY as I am you might want to swing over to Gary Trudeau's essay at Slate. Apparently the daily comic, along with the other material available on Trudeau's site will now be part of the Slate package.

Since I already get my daily dose of the strip via e-mail (by way of MYCOMICS.COM) it really shouldn't effect me. Still I usually forget to check out the other DOONESBURY related stuff, so this will make it a bit easier when I'm already reading Slate.

Yesterday I found my first dollar bill listed on the WHERE'S GEORGE website. I'd heard about this bit of Internet tracking, but had only seen one other bill that someone at a grocery store showed me a few weeks ago.

I have to admit that it is silly, but go over to the webpage and find out if it's something you want to do.

I'm really not supposed to drink beer, at least not often or a lot. I have a gluten allergy, which can act up at times. The hops, malt, barley and sometimes wheat used in the production of beer can play havoc with my system. Still I've always been a beer lover and have found that if I'm really careful keeping other glutenous articles out of my daily diet I can cheat every so often.

Anyway, there was a regional beer festival this past weekend, so me and long-time buddy Gerry decided that we'd be 'real men' and check it out. :-)

What a great time Gerry and I had on Saturday night! We actually found the place where the event was being held with little problem, but almost got wiped out by bicycles on the way there!

We were on a main highway, before turning off to the local roads, when a car started to pass me on the left. I saw the car coming up and suddenly heard this crashing sound. Looking behind Gerry and I saw two of the four bikes the guy had strapped to his roof go flying off and hit the car behind him. The car behind that one swerved over to the right
sideswiping the car immediately behind me! You can imagine the chaos in the rearview mirror. :-(

To say we were lucky is an understatement.

The festival itself was a lot of fun, with over thirty brewers & brewpubs taking part. There were about 100 different beers on tap (or from bottles) from all over New England and the Eastern Seaboard. The only 'mass produced' beer was Saranac, a small but old brewery from New York. It seemed like I tried at least half of what was available, but probably not since both Gerry and I were still standing after three hours. :-)

Among the brewers and brewpubs taking part were Buzzard's Bay, Dogfish Head, Sea Dog, Red Hook, Smuttynose, Flying Dog, Allagash, Brooklyn Brewery, Magic Hat, Otter Creek and Bru Rm (a nice brew pub in nearby New Haven). Even if some of the beers weren't all that great, you have to give the folks points for some of the names and labels. :-)

Even though the even is over you might want to check out Mountview Plaza site to get links to some of the brewers and see where else they might be showing up. Mountview has beer events coming up in September and November, so if you are in the New England area you might want to swing by.

Later, we wisely decided to grab some food at the restaurant (the event was held behind the country club in Naugatuck, CT at a public golf course) before leaving so we (actually me, since I was driving) was sober enough to get on the road safely. Since we had to head back on back roads (it was shorter than backtracking to the highways) I wanted to be in fairly decent shape, as it was around 10:00pm.

Still I almost did get us killed, because I had hit the heat since the temp had gone done. The inner windows immediately fogged up and I was crouched down trying to look through an unfogged two inch gap at the bottom of the windshield. Fortunately, I was able to get over on the shoulder without incident. *sigh*

The New York Times reviewer calls up refercences to Achilles, in discussing the soon to be released HULK movie. A powerful, yet tragic and ultimately doomed hero. Numerous other reviewers call up all sorts of biblical references (both Old & new testament) when talking about MATRIX RELOADED. Can we just have somebody talk about a film on it's cinematic merits, or lack thereof?

It reminds me of the several classes on 'cinema' I took as an Undergrad. I loved going to the movies themselves, but found the mandatory dissection of each one later to be almost painful.

Sometimes you sit around for a few weeks, never really doing anything. Suddenly you feel like a real 'social butterfly.'

This weekend, while Donna heads into Brooklyn to be with her daughter and family, for a bridal shower, I'm heading off to Naugatuck, CT for a beer festival, with my best friend (and a guy I've know since we were in sixth grade together), Gerry. Naturally, I also get an invite from my ex (Hey, Elayne!) to hit our old favorite street fair in Manhattan. Back when we were together I don't think we ever missed the annual Ninth Ave. Food Festival. Hell, if I remember right we actually went both days one year. :-)

I'll fill you in on the beer fest on Monday, but if you are into homebrewing or just like to try something different in beer, you might want to try the Brewing News site. Links to information and events that any beer lover will be happy to Bookmark.

It seems that no matter where you live somebody makes the remark, "If you don't like the weather here, just wait a minute." I"ve lived in Colorado, Connecticut, New York, plus several other states while in the service. The only place you don't is in Southern California.

Anyway, today is one of 'those days' here in Connecticut. It was perfectly sunny and hot this afternoon, but it has become overcast, windy and feels like rain tonight. Sadly, I really did hope to catch the lunar eclipse, but what can you do?

Okay, so we're getting ready to shoot looters in Iraq. We haven't found any evidence of those "WMD" that this was supposed to be about. We are threatening Syria and Iran, but 'negotiating' with the one country which definetly does have a wacko with nukes. Our good buddies in Saudi Arabia can't seem to help us with their home grown terrorists, but the Administration says not to worry they really are.

The economy is continuing to go downhill, Congress is doing everything they can to help George II grow the debt into crippling amounts, but he is still able to beat any known Democrat in the various polls. Where are these supporters? Folks I talk to seem in agreement that he's a jerk and still wonder why we had to send the troops over to be killed.

Sorry, the doctor has me on medication for an inner ear infection, as well as for a minor sinus infection. I have been having dizzy spells and feel like I'd rather be sleeping than nursemaiding college students, most of whom don't seem to know things I knew back in grade school.

Thanks folks and drive safely!

With all the events currently going on around the world. The failure of the Administration to seriously do anything about the reconstruction of Iraq, except to hand out multi-million dollar contracts to supporters; the inability of the U.S. supported (and installed) government in Afghanistan to build support or gain a foothold outside the capital; the continuing downturn in the economy, etc. The major print media in this country finds itself focused on a single reporter for the NY Times and his obvious lies, misquotes and other reporting failures.

I have to admit to a morbid fascination with the whole matter, since the Times has always prided itself on being credible. I personally doubt any heads will role over at the newspaper, but it is run to see them trying to cover their butts.

Yesterday was Mother's Day, one of those days to which one normally one gives only a little thought. Maybe you buy a card, send some flowers, or take your mother out to lunch or dinner. If you happen to be miles away, perhaps you pick up the phone and give her a call. I couldn't do any of those things yesterday.

Last year on Mother's Day I spent it, with my two sisters, visiting our mom in her nursing home. Only a few weeks before my mother had been out driving around and enjoying herself. The next day she woke up with sharp pains in her chest. It was discovered that a clot had formed in one leg and breaking loose had traveled to her lungs. Sadly, when they began to test her further they found that cancer, which she had seemingly beaten years before had returned. Almost one week after that Mother's Day visit, my sisters and I were standing before my mother's grave, saying goodbye for the last time.

This past weekend was what some would call 'an emotional roller-coaster.' On Saturday, Donna and I went to a wedding for one of her co-workers. While nobody was thrilled by either the food or the service at the reception hall, everyone seemed to be having a good time. On Sunday I gave Donna her card and later we went out shopping, for a new gown for our up-coming cruise in September. We grabbed a quick lunch at Subway, then caught ANGER MANAGEMENT, which was pretty good. The evening ended with take-out Chinese food and some dessert from Carvels.

During both days I would occasionally think of my mother and all the things which had happened the past year. Things which she had missed and which I'm sure she would have had something to say.

This coming Saturday (5/17) is the day my mom passed away. I'll be spending that day, at least part of it, back in my hometown of Norwich, CT. I'm going to be bringing flowers to place on my parents grave and spend a few minutes 'catching up.' Later my best friend Gerry and I will be driving to Naugatuck, CT for a beer festival. We will take a moment before that first brew to toast my mother and father. I think both of them would have approved.

Only a few things to say this time out.

Firstly, got back my first review for Joe Bob, with a few editorial changes. To be honest, I feel pretty good since the review still 'reads' like my writing and not all that different from the draft I posted here. Some things were cut out, which were unimportant and I'd actually forgotten to give a 'star' rating. As soon as it is actually up on the site I'll let you know.

Well, don't know about you but for me "Free Comics Day" was a letdown. The local shop only had a half dozen freebies, and none from the major companies. I'd been looking forward to the BATMAN comics and was surprised, since the film debuted that weekend, that the shop didn't have any of the ULTIMATE X-MEN comics to give out. Real lost opportunity.

I did get four of the six give-aways and will have more to say after I read them.

While I'm talking about comics....

I was disappointed in the latest issue of BATGIRL. The new art is UGLY, with Batman especially badly drawn, it was also hard to follow the art. Likewise, the writing seemed to be disjointed or maybe it was the editing. Whichever it really seemed to jump around and the story difficult to follow. I had been looking for books to cut from my buy list and I think this is one of them.

I'm also only going to give BIRDS OF PREY one more issue, to finish up the 'Felix Faust' storyline. Just when I was beginning to warm to many of the Bat Family titles they are declining in quality (at least IMHO).

ROBIN remains a favorite, so I'm going to keep buying that title. It remains to be seen if I'm going to keep getting all three of the major BATMAN books (BATMAN, DETECTIVE, GOTHAM KNIGHTS). I think that resurecting the Joker as a major protagonist in both BATMAN & DETECTIVE, at the same time (but in unrelated stories) may have been a mistake. In one book, the character is locked up while in the other he's running around with Harley Quinn. Perhaps some editorial decision should have been made to put some time between the storylines. I feel bad saying this, since I'm really enjoying both plots.

If JLA doesn't keep my interest over the current three issue "White Rage" story line it will also be cut from my buy list. I'm getting enjoyable super-heroics from JSA, GREEN ARROW, HAWKMAN & AQUAMAN, to name a few. Speaking of DC, I can't believe that I'm reading the current GA/GREEN LANTERN x-over. I've actually become fond of Kyle! That's scary!

For the most part I'm still enjoying POWER COMPANY, but Manhunter could easily take a walk and I wouldn't miss him. There's enough interesting characterization in the rest of the team.

In case anybody cares, Donna and I thought the Lucy & Desi bio-pic the other night was okay. We both preferred the earlier Jackie Gleason one with Brad Garrett and the Martin & Lewis TV-movie with Sean Hayes. Sure, they aren't 100% accurate, but if done well can still be fun.

I absolutely loved X-MEN 2, which I caught yesterday at a matinee. Even at 12:30pm on a Friday afternoon the place was 3/4 full, plus there was another screen showing the film beginning at 1:00pm. I've read on some sites earlier that the film is already going to be a major box-office smash for opening weekends. I think good reviews and word of mouth will keep the films in theaters for a while.

As Hugh Jackman mentioned in an interview I heard this past week, they were able to get right into the action since so much had already been introduced in the first film. Of course, it probably would be hard for anyone unfamiliar with the mythos (even from the initial film) to understand who all these folks were, but there is some brief attempt at explanation early on.

I'm not going to give a lot away, but there were a few surprises (at least to someone like me who hasn't read a dozen message board postings giving everything away) that delighted folks familiar with the comics. Several mutants make there first appearance in this film, one of them only in his 'civilian' identity. When the other two revealed their powers (and thereby who they were) there was applause and cheers from those 'in the know.'

Hugh Jackman, as Logan/Wolverine is clearly the main focus and hero of this film, just as he was in the second. All the others seem to be 'guest stars' in his movie. Moreso here, than even in the first, Jackman has the character down and turns in a great performance. Clearly the character could spin-off into solo films, but only with Jackman in the role.

Alan Cumming, almost unrecognizable under all the makeup, is quite good as Kurt Wagner/Nightcrawler. He brings just the right amount of pathos, innocense and humor to the role. The FX folks do an excellant job with his teleportation power, the only quibble is that no body seems to mention the smell of sulpher (I believe) that he leaves behind. Of course, that's something I remember from when I was reading the series, so that may have been written out or just not mentioned any more.

Bobby Drake/Iceman gets an extended part this time around and I couldn't be happier. His relationship with Rogue developing pretty well and the small demonstrations of his powers hint that he'll probably have a larger part in the planned sequels.

I've read that Hallie Berry may not be returning, but since she really doesn't seem to be adding much to the mix (not for lack of trying, but the script really doesn't give her much to work with), it will probably not be hard to fit somebody else for the white wig and contacts.

The main villain of the film, General Stryker, really isn't much more than a second-rate military type. We've seen his equal in hundreds of movies and twice that many television shows. It's the mutants we came to see and in the end we won't miss Stryker.

While Patrick Stewart is a good actor and plays Prof X as well as anyone could, Ian McKellan as Magneto is far more interesting. In this film it's easy to see that he can manipulate people, just as easily as he can metal. The means of his escape from his metal-free cell is creepy, but so in character.

The theatre in which I caught the movie had a number of trailers (long one of my favorite parts of the theatre-going experience), among them being ones for MATRIX RELOADED & LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENTLEMEN. The second Matrix film looks quite good and easily as jammed with killer FX as the original. LoEG looks to be absolutely amazing, even with the changes they have made to Alan Moore's creation. I suppose it makes sense, in Hollywood logic, to bring in a younger man as the lead action hero. I really have no problem with him being a slightly older Tom Sawyer, who was turned into a detective by Twain anyway.

The rest of the summer looks to be a good one for both comics fans and folks who just like action/adventure.

Here's the second review that I've done for the Joe Bob website. I'm still waiting to see the first posted, but the books are piling up and if I ever want to read anything BUT the review books I better not wait.

I may make a few changes before I submit this, but I'm pretty satisfied with the review as it now stands.

***************************************
With a Vengeance by Eileen Dreyer; published by St. Martin’s Press

Face it, everybody has a ‘List’, whether you call it that or not. There are just some folks who piss you off so much that you’d like to see them put up against a wall and shot. You may not put it down on paper, but somewhere in the back of you mind you probably add at least one person to that list every week. Maybe you and some co-workers, or some friends, even share a list. The boss is probably there, plus a particularly annoying salesperson or the guy who ‘fixes’ the photocopier which breaks down within an hour of his visit.

Now suppose there are a group of folks who not only have such a list, but actually go and do something about it. Their list doesn’t include just folks who are annoying, but folks who are dangerous. Rapists, child molesters, wife beaters and a whole range of people that the world would not miss and might actually be better off without.

Dreyer introduces us to Maggie O’Brien, trauma nurse and medic on a SWAT team. Maggie is the daughter of a former policeman, who was ‘retired’ from the force when he took the rap for a junior officer guilty of police brutality. Much to the disgust of her father, Maggie is not following in his footsteps. She not only does not become a police officer, but even now that she is a member of SWAT, she refuses to carry a gun.

Maggie knows about The List, which is scribbled on the break room in the hospital in which she works. Not only that, but Maggie herself has written more than a few names herself. It’s only when she witnesses the death of a homeless man, whom she has befriended, that she begins to suspect that some folks around her are taking The List a bit more seriously than she does.

Dreyer, herself a forensic nurse, creates in Maggie a believable and troubled woman. Taught, from childhood, to believe in justice, Maggie finds that those whom she has considered her friends may have a very, different idea of how justice can be achieved.

**********************
I have a feeling that I probably should have made this review longer, but I don't want to pad the thing.

If I've done it correctly you'll find a new link to the Mystic Seaport over on the righthand side of this Blog. Having been raised less than a 45 minute drive from the place, the Mystic area is familiar and one of the best places to spend a peaceful Spring/Summer/Fall day. The Seaport itself, part museum & part working marina, is only part of the things available in the area.

From downtown Mystic itself, with it's restaurants (including the famous Mystic Pizza), crafts & antique shops and book stores, to the Mystic Aquarium, on the other end of the seaport, with the delightful Old Mystic Village (a group of shops featuring nautical and colonial crafts and merchandise).

When I was a kid it was just a thrill to look at the old ships and wander the winding streets. Today the area has become a tourist stop along the cost, either on the way to or from the two Native American casinos.

The Mystic Seaport museum & library are doing some amazing things to preserve the culture of the area and of the New England maritime heritage. I'd be remiss in not pointing it out to you, since it's one of the reasons that I'll always consider myself a Connecticut Yankee, no matter where I live.

The New York Times on-line Travel section has this article on taking the family to Las Vegas. This sought of ties in with the previous article I mentioned on Treasure Island casino closing down their great, pirate show.

While I don't agree with everything that the writer has to say about Vegas, I do think that the city really is trying to reach out beyond the regular gamblers and entice families to take a chance.

Just read about this story over on Mark Evanier's website. I had a couple of immediate reactions and wanted to get them down.

I think the move is a shame and might come back to bite the owners of Treasure Island. If you haven't seen the Pirate show you really have missed quite a performance. Two scale model ships, one a pirate vessel the other a British man-of-war, actually do battle with cannons in the small moat that fronts the casino. I can't imagine that the casino loses money on this show, even though I'm sure it is expensive. The crowds that show up for every performance are not only comprised of casino guests, but also folks staying at other casinos. While I doubt that everyone in attendance immediately goes inside, I'm sure that more than enough do so at some point during their stay in Vegas to more than make up for whatever it costs.

Also, the show is one of those things that can truly be enjoyed by the 'whole family'. To replace it with something 'sexier' seems short-sighted, IMHO. Just about everyone you speak to who has been to Vegas tries to see the show or has seen it. Folks recommend it to each other as a 'must-see' event.

I've seen the show twice over the years. First with my ex-wife (and fellow Blogger) Elayne, and just a few months ago with my current wife, Donna, my step-daughter, Kristina, plus several of Donna's family. Half of us had seen it before and it was new to the rest. It's sad to think that it won't be there next time we visit, and just might make the difference in our staying at another hotel, rather than at Treasure Island, as we did this past time.

Well, I thought you folks might be interested in the final draft of my first review for the Joe Bob Briggs site. I may make a couple of changes, but this is basically what I'm going to be sending in.

By the way, I just received two more books to review in yesterday's post. I'm only a month into this and already have three books waiting to be reviewed. Now I remember what it was like the last time I tried this. :-)

Let me know what you think!

Bay of Souls – by Robert Stone: Published by Houghton Mifflin
Reviewed by Steve Chaput

A couple of years ago Richard Dreyfus starred in a short-lived television show called THE EDUCATION OF MAX BICKFORD. Dreyfus played Bickford, an aging college professor at a small, New England college. Fairly comfortable in his academic position, Bickford still felt unfulfilled emotionally and found that he had lost touch with the faith in which he had been raised, which in Bickford’s case was Jewish.

Imagine now Russell Crowe in the Dreyfus role and his college transplanted to the Midwest, or as he refers to it at one point “Flyover land.” In Stone’s novel, the professor’s name is Michael Ahearn and the faith from which he feels estranged is Catholicism. Ahearn feels a growing emptiness inside, as well as a growing alienation from his wife and son. Even the near death by overexposure of his son doesn’t bring them closer, rather just the opposite.

The only things that Michael seems to enjoy are drinking and hunting with some fellow academics. Even at those points the pleasure is mixed as Ahearn often doesn’t even fire his rifle, allowing the others to kill any deer or other prey.

One day into Michael’s life steps Lara Purcell, a new political science professor with a mysterious past. It’s not long before Michael and Lara are lovers, but there is more to Lara’s past than simply an absent husband. Lara and her late brother were not only involved in espionage, but also drug smuggling and voodoo. In fact, Lara believes that her brother had given her soul away to a voodoo priestess when she was a child. Now that he is dead she wants to get it back.

Stone may be best known for his novel DOG SOLDIERS, which was turned into the film WHO’LL STOP THE RAIN with Nick Nolte. As in that novel, Stone allows his protagonist to be drawn into a situation that not only places his life in danger, but also forces him to learn things about himself that he may not have wanted to know.

To be honest, I don’t think that Stone successfully brings any of these characters to life. They certainly don’t speak in a manner that anyone would normally. Sadly, the book never reads like anything more than a morality play, which the author would like to see brought to the screen by the addition of some exotic locales and a couple of action sequences.

Stone, reminiscent of Peter Benchley in his early novels, is at his best in those few action scenes. In those sections, especially those chapters dealing with a night dive to recover lost property in a downed airplane, it is easy to see why the author does have a loyal following.

Overall, the story doesn’t hold up and the entire thing reads like the draft of a longer novel, which Stone didn’t have time to complete before his deadline.

*****
Now that wasn't so bad, was it?

Just a couple of quick notes while I have the time and they are fresh in my mind.

I've discovered that I'm not a Robert Stone fan. The first third of the novel BAY OF SOULS appears to be set up for the second section, which I'm hoping it easier to wade through. I'm trying to overlook the fact that the protagonist is a total whiner who appears almost resentful that his son has survived a near fatal case of overexposure in a storm, but it isn't making it easy to care about anything he does. Also, Stone appears to be one of those writers who write dialogue as if the characters KNOW they are characters. Real folks DO NOT talk like this, even it they are supposed to be college professors. Hey, I'm here in academia and the professors I sit around with seem quite capable of speaking the way everybody else does. On top of that, it's hard not to ignore a comment in one of the interviews with Stone that was sent in the press package, in which he actually calls HIMSELF a 'writers writer!' Pardon my ego!

Oh, and I was surprised to discover a second package from the Joe Bob folks last night when I got home, with yet another book. This one appears to be a 'medical thriller', which may be a bit easier to take. I'll keep you all updated.

Wasn't sure how to take this, so I thought I'd just report that I read an article today which said that the folks who recent purchased THE NASHVILLE NETWORK and decided to change the name and format have discovered both their ratings and ad revenue in steep decline. Appears there were more Country fans out there than the boys in New York had thought. The plan now is to change the name and format again.

The network will soon be known as SPIKE, which will be promoted as a 'man's network'. Apparently, the various sports networks and cable stations directed at hunting & fishing fans are not manly enough for the Madison Avenue folks. I would almost think that this was a joke, but then I'm not a highly paid consultant on this type of thing. :-)

Btw, it was over 80 degrees today and the weather folks are predicting a drop of 30+ degrees overnight. What the hell happened to Spring?

As things stand today we are going to book a cruise with Celebrity Cruiselines for Bermuda. We just haven't decided on a set date yet, although it will probably be sometimes in mid to late September. We're figuring that not only do the rates go down, but the cruise itself is likely to be relatively kid-free, since school will have started for just about everyone at that point.

Hey, don't get me wrong! We like kids (Donna even has a daughter!), but we'd like to spend our 7-days pretty much away from the rug rats.

After several hitches in the U.S. Navy you might think that I'd rather not find myself at sea again, but to be honest I actually loved those parts of each deployment where we'd be mid-Atlantic or cruising the coast. As peaceful as it can be sitting on the beach and watching the waves, the feeling of being completely out of sight of land, surrounded by the ocean is unbelievable. The skies at night are so full of stars that you can't compare them to even the clearest night that you've ever spent on land. (Okay, I will admit that there were occasions in California & Colorado where the night skies could be fantastic. Those had to be spent outside the city limits, either in the Rockies or in the desert.)

The first 'commercial' cruise I ever took was on Carnival Cruiseline which was introducing it's newest ship the Triumph with four to five night cruises to Nova Scotia, out of New York City. Donna, who had sailed before convinced me that it would be fun so we booked a four night cruise to Halifax. Just about everyone that I'd talked to, both before and after we confirmed, said that once you'd cruised you would immediately start planning your next. Well, it might not be true of everyone, but for Donna and myself it certainly was.

I'll probably have more to add on this tomorrow, so I'll leave it at that for now.

I'll probably have more to add on this particular topic later, but Donna and I have been spending way too many hours trying to plan our next vacation. It's actually funny, since we plan various trips to places like California or Florida and then convince ourselves that we'd have a better time at less expense by taking a cruise. At this point, with several cruises behind us you'd think we'd just be honest and stick to cruising. :-)

Things are still in flux, but I'll have a few things to say about cruising in general and the particular cruises we've taken together in the next few days.

As far as the war goes, why are we bothering bringing any ships or troops home, since the Administration seems more than ready to send us into Syria at any moment. It's only the beginning folks, only the beginning!

Don't bother asking what I've been up to, since it really hasn't been important enough to mention. Chalk it up to my famous procrastination and leave it at that. :-)

Some of you who may remember my mentioning that I would soon be doing book reviews for Joe Bob Briggs' website. I just received the first book this past Saturday and will begin reading it in the next day or two. Naturally the book arrives when I'm in the middle of two books, plus listening to a third on audiotape. I'm going to put the other two books aside for the time being and but I figure I can keep track of the audiobook easily enough.

For anyone interested the two books are HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE, which I've had for a couple of years, but have never gotten around to reading. Figured with the five novel due this summer it might be good to be up to date. The second book is Jack Finney's FROM TIME TO TIME which is a sequel to his fantastic TIME AND AGAIN. If you like stories of time travel, especially when they deal with the ramifications of changing the past to effect the future, you can't do much better than Finney's two novels. Finally, the audiobook is an unabridged reading of Max Allen Collins' MAJIC MAN. Collins is one of my favorite writers, whether it is his Nat Heller mysteries, his numerous movie adapations or his all too few comicbook works.

Just to let you know, the book I'll be reviewing for Joe Bob is author Robert Stone's latest novel, BAY OF SOULS. Not exactly what I had expected from being in the 'thriller' group, but I'm certainly willing to give it a try. I was especially surprised to find a 'press package' included along with the review copy. It has about a dozen reviews, interviews and articles on Stone's previous books, as well as a couple of reviews by the NY Times of BAY OF SOULS. I don't think I've had this much material pertaining to a book I've yet to read, since I was back in college. I'm going to try not to be prejudge the work, from the other reviews. In future, I think I'll hold off on reading those until I've had a chance to read the book itself.

I'll keep you abreast of my opinions of the book, as well as passing along a first draft of my review once it's finished.

Okay, so remember a month ago when we jumped the deadline and bombed Baghdad, and thought we killed Saddam. Well, we were wrong, even though we did kill somebody, but we're not sure who and since it wasn't him it really isn't that important. Anyway, yesterday somebody said they thought that Saddam and his sons were in this other place (this wasn't the same guy who said he was in the first place, but even if it is the same guy he might be right this time) so we bombed it even more then the first place.

Hell, we left a crater and everything so somebody is definetly dead, even if it takes a few days or so to find out if it's Saddam & sons this time. After all, it's not like we can't bomb someplace else if we have to?

Oh, and maybe we actually found some "Weapons of Mass Destruction" which might really be pesticides, but since somebody buried them and we dug it up it seems awfully suspicious anyway. This means we were right and there's no reason to bring up the place we found the other week where we said we found something and it turned out to be nothing at all. Let's not live in the past!

Also, we are really sorry that we shot at the Russian embassador, even if we didn't start it. It's not like we killed anybody.

We also feel pretty bad about shooting at a hotel where we knew all those journalists stay. I mean, it's pretty funny if you think about it, them staying there when they knew we were bombing and stuff. Hehe.. We did kill that one guy, but after all one of those NBC guys died from a leg cramp or something, and we can't be blamed for that. I mean these things happen, right?

Hey, you have to laugh about this stuff, don't you? I mean, Dennis Miller and Jay Leno seem to think it's okay and they seem pretty popular. Oh, and don't get me started on the Michael Moore! Boy, you got to let that election thing go after a year or so, huh? Give it a rest already! :-(

Seriously, I'm losing it with all of this stuff going on. Guys over on Fox News say that we are traitors if we don't support the President, so I'm not really looking forward to Homeland Security guys showing up.

I'm wearing my American flag tie and the Internet classical music station is playing the Star Spangled Banner. Everything is going to be just fine.

I wish I could think of a clever text way of placing a Campbell Soup can in this site, as Mark Evanier does on his page. There really isn't something of interest to comment on each and every day, but I always feel guilty if I haven't posted for several days in a row.

Even though I had the day off yesterday (Friday, 4/5) I decided NOT to watch the news. In spite of everything going on, and quite rapidly, I find that it just depresses me. The saddest part, aside from the deaths of hundreds of Iraqi civilians, is that George W. will use this in 2004 to ensure he has a second term. Nevermind the national debt that will cripple the economy for years. Forget the fact that, in all probablity, nothing will be done to bring real changes to the health care system. Let's not think about how conservative justices will help the Republicans further erode any Constitutional rights, any but the wealthy may have in this country. We kicked Saddam's ass! Four more years!!!

Taking a break from all that I surfed the channels and found back-to-back episodes of BUFFY. To be honest, when the show first came on the air I was quite the fan, but I don't think I've actually set down and watched an episode for the past couple of years. I was lucky enough to find that they were showing the episode in which Tara (Willow's gal-pal) is killed, followed immediately by the episode in which Willow takes vengence and goes over to the Very Dark SIde. I had forgotten how good the show was, but of course, was confused by a few of the characters who had apparently become part of the cast since my last viewing. Still I can see why the show continues to have a following and why folks are disappointed that it will be ending soon.

I was also happy to catch two episodes each of PERRY MASON (the old B&W program) and MURDER, SHE WROTE. I'm a fan of both shows, no matter how dated both appear.

Speaking of which, it's always fun to see the various 'guest stars' who appear on MSW, sometimes only for a few minutes. In one of the episodes I caught Milton Berle as a showbiz agent. I really think that Berle adlibbed some of his dialogue, especially the lines he tossed off in greetings to unseen 'friends' at a restaurant scene. Like another favorite, COLUMBO, MSW has a style that owes to the talent of their stars.

So okay, the Mets stunk up the field and Roger "Sure I hit guys, but it's never my fault" Clemens tagged one of the Toronto Blue Jays. Meanwhile, my beloved Red Sox got beat by the Devil Rays. It's just the second day of the season and it is snowing outside!

Two quick comments while I'm thinking about it.

The bio-pic RUDY, wasn't as bad as it could have been. Hats off to James Woods for actually making the ex-Mayor of New York ALMOST likeable in a few sections of the film. If nothing else, the movie showed how self-centered and often mean spirited Guilliani could be.

I lived in Brooklyn during Rudy's terms as Mayor, as well as several years under Ed Koch and the likeable, if inept David Dinkins. The movie portrayed the man as I remember him. He truly loved the city, but had little but contempt for many of the citizens. In the end, he was indeed "the right man at the right time" for New York after 9/11. I don't think we have seen the last of him!

I'll try to have a few more words tomorrow about THE CORE, but just let me state that I was pleasantly surprised.

So! Will Donald Rumsfeld be the scapegoat in this whole thing? Is the Administration even now trying to distance George W. from the blunders that may well cause the deaths of many more American soldiers and Iraqi civilians? Will this Bush claim to be 'out of the loop' as his dad was during Iran/Contra? Meanwhile, is Powell counting the days before he can step down and begin rebuilding his own reputation? Stay tuned!

It is Opening Day and I'm putting everything else on the backburner. Pedro is pitching today and the Red Sox are gearing up to once again break my heart.

"I think there are only three things America will be known for 2,000 years from now when they study this civilization: the Constitution, jazz music, and baseball." -Gerald Early

Sorry, that it has been so long since my last posting. Can't even say that it has been because of work or family problems. It's simply that I really haven't had much to say.

Okay, I've had a LOT to say, but it would basically be me ranting about the war in Iraq and you can get that 24/7 just about anywhere.

What can you say at this point besides it being a bad mistake which shouldn't have happened? Hundreds of Iraqi civilians and more than that number of soldiers have died. The casualties of the coalition are not anywhere near that number but it is still sad to see them losing their lives for some ill-conceived, political agenda of the Bush administration.

The Washington Monthly has an interesting article by Josua Micah Marshall. He tries to exam the real reason behind the current war, and warns that this may only be the beginning of a much, longer series of wars. Given Donald Rumsfeld's recent comments about Syria, the first part of Marshall's essay seems almost prophetic. Whether you agree with him or not, the article is still interesting reading. (I admit that Mark Evanier had a link to this article last week, but I've only had a chance to read the article yesterday.)

While I served in the U.S. Navy for close to a decade I saw a number of things which I try not to think about. Collisions at sea caused by inept officers, sailors & marines hurt and killed during 'war games'. More than once the one of the ships I served on was under attack. These events all happened in 'peace time' or at least, in areas considered out of the combat areas. It was an open secret that one or two deaths were possible, even predictable, during mass exercises during manuevers.

Given this we should not be surprised by the events that are occurring in Iraq, at this point in time. At this very moment we are purposely trying to kill the soldiers and destroy the fighting abilities of an entire nation. Despite the obvious 'brave front' put on by the Administration and Pentagon spokespersons, it should have been obvious from the pre-planning stage that this was not going to be a repeat of the first Gulf War. We are not beating back a retreating force, who invaded another country. This time we are the invaders and the soldiers and many civilians (whether they be pro or anti-Saddam) see us as uninvited intruders into their nation. Did the planners in the White House and Pentagon REALLY believe that the citizens of a nation would all welcome us with flowers and invitations to dinner?

Britain's Daily Mirror has some interesting reports that you won't see in the U.S. press. In that country the major newspapers have not all embraced the Administrations policies. The majority of British citizens continue to oppose the use of their nations troops, while hoping for their safe return. It would seem that in the American media, if you oppose the war you dishonor those men & women who serve in the Armed Forces. As most anti-war protestors have tried to make clear, this is not the case.

Be warned that some of the photographs that are shown in the Mirror articles are disturbing. I couldn't look at many of them, once it became apparent what they showed. Still it must be clear, as the Mirror reporter does, that these images are being shown in the papers and television coverage in most Arab nations. Is this what we, as American citizens, want our country to be known for? Will this 'help our cause' (whatever it happens to be this week)?

Before I forget, and on a somewhat lighter note, I was happy to see that Michael Moore received his justly deserved Oscar recognition last evening. When it was announced that he had won for "Bowling for Columbine" I told my wife, "If you want to see a political statement, just wait." He didn't disappoint, that's for sure! :-)

Is it just me or is anyone else disturbed by the obvious glee that the invasion seems to have instilled in the media?

On Wednesday night I went home and found the anchor on MSNBC positively giddy when talking to some retired General about the possible damage that could be brought down on Bagdhad by US weapons. I was reminded of the all too common site of journalists, usually local anchor/reporter types, who have been sent to accompany troops from their area. It doesn't seem to dawn on them that the armaments and equipment they lovingly touch and show off will be used to take the life of actual people. It might as well be some video game, which of course, is what the tapes we see on the nightly news appear to be.

"If you enjoyed the action and destruction of the first Persian Gulf War than you'll love the new and improved thrills in store for you in Persian Gulf War II: Saddam Is Slain! Coming to you soon on Playstation 2 and Nintendo!"

Let's also be thankful that neither March Madness nor the Academy Awards will be interrupted, just because several hundred Iraqi citizens may be killed. Hey, it's business after all and you don't want to upset major advertisers.

It's 2:15pm and the 'deadline' for the beginning of war is about six hours away. Since Saddam has said that he is not going to leave, it may be that things have already begun that we haven't heard about.

We are going to be getting minute-by-minute coverage of events, even when the 'reporters' are hundreds (even thousands) of miles away and are passing along news second & third hand. You might want to check out "How To Tell If We're Winning In Iraq" over on at Slate.com. They won't be handing out a scorecard, but there are things that you might watch out for.

As I've said before, at this point we can only hope that the deaths are minimal and the destruction limited. In my heart of hearts I don't believe that, but it's the only way to keep from crying over this whole situation.

Is there really anyone who doubted that it would come to this? I mean, since late last year the Administration has been talking 'diplomacy' on the one hand, while sending in troops, stockpiling weapons and ammunition along the borders. Bush & Co. wanted and pushed all along for a war and nothing the UN or anyone else did or said would have prevented it from happening. Even if there had been a second vote, and it had been vetoed the current unelected Commander in Chief would have used previous resolutions (as he has and said so last evening) to allow him to justify an invasion.

Of course, since we are invading the Iraqi military has every right to fight back, as would any country whose borders had been violated. One of those stipulations for a 'just war' (we have heard so much about) is such an incursion.

Try to put a 'good face' on it as they might the U.S. will have to live with the consequences (social, political and economic) for years after G.W. has returned to the ranch.

With the way things are heating up you might want to put things in perspective over at Get Your War On Wonderful clip art cartoon strip covering the mounting campaign to get the U.S. ready what is to come.

The Prez is going to make it "official" tonight, if the various newsites and media are correct. He'll give Saddam & Co. a few days to 'get out of Dodge or else'.

Sadly, the Administration aided by their toadies in the media have put any anti-war position as being disloyal at least, or treasonal at worst. Let's hope that we don't find ourselves rounding up Arab-Americans 'for their own safety' or some such.

It's a scary time and only going to get moreso in the weeks and months ahead.

Been a while since I actually mentioned comics here, so I thought it was about time.

The BRUCE WAYNE:MURDERER/FUGITIVE storyline, beginning back in BATMAN Ten Cent Adventure, got me hooked on a few of the Bat family titles. Quickly discovered that the ugly art and confusing storyline over on NIGHTWING weren't my cup of tea. On the other hand, I'm really glad to be reading both ROBIN & BATGIRL. Both are interesting characters in themselves, apart from their involvement with their mentor. Also, found that BIRDS OF PREY was a nice change of pace, allthough the recent change in art chores threw me for an issue. The three main Batman books (BATMAN, DETECTIVE & GOTHAM KNIGHTS) have allowed me to catch up on my one time favorite comics character and his extended 'family'. Two female characters, SPOILER and THE HUNTRESS both are going through some tough times and have enough backstory to keep me interested.

If somebody can explain why Marvel decided to completely change the storyline and characters in THUNDERBOLTS, yet retain the title and numbering of the original series, I'd love to hear it. I had heard the book was going to change and was disappointed, since I thought that both original scripter Kurt Busiek and follow-up scribe Fabian Nicieza were doing a fantastic job with some unusual characters. Dozens of second-string Marvel villains were re-introduced, changed, killed and than brought back, new heroes were introduced and yet both guys were able to keep the juggling act going, almost effortlessly. I found it funny that, when speaking with one of the co-owners of Clockworks Comics (where I currently buy my books), at least a half-dozen folks had the book dropped from their 'pull lists' after just seeing the cover art for issue #76 in PREVIEWS. To be honest, T-bolts was the ONLY Marvel title that I have been buying on a regular basis for a while now. I know that the publisher can certainly get along without me, but I'll be curious to see how long this revamp remains on the stands.

It's been known that YOUNG JUSTICE was going to end for a while now, but I was still sorry to see one of my favorite DCU books wrap up. I think Peter David was doing a great job on all the characters, and certainly proved (as if he needed to) that he is one solid comicbook writer. I haven't read or been interested in the TITANS for years, so I can't say that their demise means much to me. I'll be picking up the cross-over GRADUATION DAY, just out of curiousity but doubt that I'll have any desire to pick up either the new TITANS or THE OUTSIDERS which will apparently spin-off. To be honest, the idea of an illegitimate daughter for BLACK LIGHTNING seems to be a slap in the face of that characters creator Tony Isabella. Distaste it enough to keep me away.

In case anybody cares (and in no particular order) here are my current Top Ten Favorite comic books:
USAGI YOJIMBO, SAVAGE DRAGON, POWERS, JSA, GREEN ARROW, HAWKMAN, TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES (I can't begin to tell you how happy I am to see them back and in the hands of one of their creators), DOOM PATROL (*sigh* Another DCU title that I've heard will be dropped all too soon.), STRAY BULLETS, ASTRO CITY (I'm really glad that Kurt & Co. are back, even on an irregular shedule).

Several other comics come out rather haphazardly, but I still love them when they appear:
AKIKO, 7 GUYS OF JUSTICE (The best superhero spoof since early issues of THE TICK, and almost as strange as LETHARGIC LAD), HEROBEAR & THE KID (the book makes me remember how wonderful the imagination of a child can be)

Hats off to both BONGO COMICS and ABC for publishing entire lines which are 'must have, double bag'. You probably couldn't find two companies who publish such 'different' books, but both seem dedicated to producing things which appeal to fans outside the standard readers of DC & MARVEL.

Oh, and I'd regret not recommending FIREBREATHER, one of the new 'superhero' titles being introduced by Image Comics. What do you when you are going through puberty, and just moved into a new town where the kids at school wouldn't allow you into their cliques? Now suppose you were orange, had scales and your father was a 300-foot monster bent on conquering the world? Only three issues so far, but this is quickly moving up on my list of favorities.

Have I mentioned that I LOVE comics lately?

A couple of quickies this morning to get things started.

It was great to hear that Elizabeth Smart was found alive and apparently in good condition yesterday. The amazing thing is that just that morning there had apparently been some reports, in Utah papers, that the Smart family was lambasting the police for failure to follow up on various leads.

The family had nothing but positive things to say for all involved later, but it will be interesting to see what comes out about a police investigation that can NOT find a girl lost for months, while they had apparently spoken to the man who had abducted her.

I also give credit to Mr. Smart for using his media spotlight to aim some anger at politicians dragging their feet on the "Amber alert" legislation. He actually named one politician by name, and you can expect that guy to be dodging reporters for a while.

Watched the 1st Annual TV Land Awards last night. I mean, for the most part there were no surprised, as you could tell from the clips who was going to get any particular award, just by knowing which folks were actually in attendance. The best part, and sometimes the saddest, was seeing so many 'familiar faces' from past shows. I was most surprised to see how frail James Doohan looked when the cast of Star Trek appeared together.

Also evident was the editing, since some folks almost magically appeared on stage while others had their acceptance speeches very, obviously cut. It seems that Shatner's remarks began somewhere in the middle of whatever he had to say.

The show could have done without some of the padding, such as the dress designer Jacques Whomever(?) retrospective. Cutting bits like that could have shortened the show, or allowed the acceptance speeches to be kept.

Looks more and more like it will be the U.S. acting on its own in Iraq, although it's possible that the British will have some troops and aircraft in the area for support. It also seems that Blair, whose friendship with Bush, looked like a good move post-9/11, will actually be his downfall within his own party. With less then 20% (I think it was 19% in the latest polls) of Brits supporting a non-UN backed war, plus some of his Cabinet already resigned (and more threatening that), I would not be surprised to see a vote of "No Confidence" or something of that order coming up shortly.

I am fascinated by articles coming out about how various entertainment and sports events might be effected by a war. Networks fear that the "March Madness" college basketball tournaments might be shuffled off to VH1, with sidebars talking about how it will impact advertisers like Budwieser because they might hesitate to advertise if the games go to the youth oriented MTV channels.

We can hold our heads up high though, since the Academy has announced that a war won't cancel or postpone their annual event. It was one thing, apparently, to hold off when it seemed that 'terrorist' threats might take place, but there's nothing like a party to keep your mind off of the bombing of Iraqi citizens.

Man, am I Mister Cynicism again, or what?

As promised here's the first of several postings dealing with my experiences in Las Vegas and other casinos. Be sure to check out the link over on the side to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. Great stuff on what's happening, hotel rates and other things you might want to know about in "Sin City", before you head out. Btw, you might also want to check out Mark Evanier's Las Vegas pages (go through the link to POVonline, also over on the side), besides general info Mark also has some wonderful stories about new and old Vegas that will make you want to go there even more.

Enjoy and let me know what you think!

Viva Las Vegas, pt. 1
My first trip to Las Vegas was back in 1995, with my ex (fellow Blogger Elayne Riggs). We ended up staying with her parents, rather than at a hotel, so I can only comment on what we saw driving along the Strip and visiting several of the casinos.

My greatest thrill was just going down the length of the Strip our first night. If you have never made the trip, or have only see the city in films you can’t imagine how absolutely overwhelming the place can be. Having grown up watching clips of Frank & The Rat Pack, plus numerous other scenes showing the place it was like a ‘dream come true’ for this kid. As I whispered to Elayne while gaping at everything, "I think I just orgasmed!"

The two casinos that made the most lasting impression, at least on the inside, were Ceasar’s and the MGM Grand. Both have made a number of changes since then, but walking down the main corridor of Ceasar’s is amazing. You have got to check out the ‘living statue’ show, with Bacchus (which hasn't changed since I originally saw it), as well as the newer “Fall of Atlantis” further down the way.

Outside the Strip, I vividly recall going one evening to checkout the Freemont Experience, a great light & music show. A huge canopy of lights has been erected over several blocks, under which have been placed some of the old-time neon signs (including the Lucky cowboy) you may remember from 1950s shots of Vegas. Each time I’ve gone the show has been different.

My second trip was with my current wife, Donna. We had been talking about Vegas since we began dating back in ’99, and finally decided to take a chance. The most important thing we discovered was that visiting Vegas in the middle of summer might not be your best choice. Surprisingly, not only is it incredibly hot, but the place is packed. We found on our next trip, in January of this year, that there were fewer crowds and it was much easier (especially on weekdays early in the week) to find spots at the machines and tables. January in Vegas has temps around 56% during the day (as opposed to around 104% in July), but you might want to bring a light jacket, for evenings.

If you do go, I would recommend passing on both the Aladdin and New York, New York. They are really pushy when you first walk in, with Greeters trying to get you to sign up for casino cards and shows. Also, Aladdin isn't really that special and NYNY is like a bad dream of what Times Square once was. Crowded, noisy and impossible to find your way around. We were trying to figure out where to find an exit and found ourselves standing behind a group of people. Some guy asked me what we're standing in line for! "Hopefully the exit," I said. He laughed and drifted away.
One surprise at NYNY was a ‘tribute/memorial’ to the police & firefighters who lost their lives in the WTC disaster. Around the “riverfront” (complete with tugboat) outside the casino is a fence literally covered by t-shirts and sweaters bearing the logos of EMS, fire & police departments from around the country. Many of these also have handwritten messages, which can still be read. Very moving.
Mandalay Bay, one of the newer casino resorts, is nice, but really nothing special. Although they do have some very nice restaurants. The Bellagio, on the otherhand, is quite lovely. You have to check out the blown-glass sculptures in the lobby ceiling, and the botanical gardens. The Luxor, which I didn't have a chance to really explore during my first trip is a lot of fun. The place really uses the ancient Egyptian motive to full-effect. Giant statues of the pharoahs, hyroglyphics, etc. adorn the lobby and walls of the casino floor. Looking up you are reminded instantly of the pyramid shape of the building and the unusual 'inclinators' which take you up to your rooms moving at an angle to the casino below.

Naturally, on my trip last year I had a chance to check out the Elvira 'nickel' slots at the Luxor! Pretty cool, featuring a little statue of her on top, sitting in a skulled throne. Donna had a lot of fun (and some luck) with the Munster video slots. A comical bat transforms into Granpa Munster when you hit certain sequences and gives you winnings, depending on what is next to him. There is also a "Munster match" where you match three video clips of one character and win a total combined number of coins. Naturally, Herman is the highest (50 to 150 coins) and Marilyn gives you only twice your bet (usually 2-3 coins), if you find the single clip of her. Donna had a lot of fun (and some luck) with the Munster video slots. A comical bat transforms into Granpa Munster when you hit certain sequences and gives you winnings, depending on what is next to him. There is also a "Munster match" where you match three video clips of one character and win a total combined number of coins. Naturally, Herman is the highest (50 to 150 coins) and Marilyn gives you only twice your bet (usually 2-3 coins), if you find the single clip of her.
Both the Elvira and Munster machines give little special extras for fans of either show. When you win on the Munster Match it ends with a close-up clip of Herman saying "I'm rich...I'm rich!!"
When you get a certain sequence on Elvira you have a chance to play Movie Macabre (or something like that) where you choose a clip from a list of bad movies (they only last about 10-15 seconds so look quick). Then you have to guess how many "skulls" Elvira gave the film. If you agree with her you win a bonus amount. As with the Munster game, it's cool to hear Elvira talking to you as you play. (Hint: When asked to 'touch a chest' for a bonus, don't automatically go for one of the 'treasure chests', see what Elvira has to say if you get a bit too chummy. ;-)
There is also an I DREAM OF JEANNIE video machine. It uses animation similar to the opening credits and you hear Barbara Eden's voice saying things like "Thank you, master" (which gives me goose bumps ;-) and things like that. Only played a few times in Atlantic City, but didn't hit at all, so don't know if it does anything really cool or not.
These things are really aimed at the Boomers and folks who grew up watching these shows. Not that that is a bad thing, of course. Face it, we go to the casinos to gamble, so why not give us a little something besides Triple Sevens and Video Poker to feed our bills into.
You can't miss the water show (a series of water jets & fountains, shooting in time with music) at the Bellagio. While interesting during the day, it is incredible great at night. Every half hour or so during the day, it switches to every fifteen minutes starting at dusk to 11:00pm, each time going off to a different song. Frank Sinatra was used often during the day, with more contemporary tunes in the evenings. Stay at least for two!

It's been a few days since my last update, so let me just throw out a few things (Larry King style).

Let me get this straight.... The latest 'resolution' the British are presenting to the UN is going to give Iraq until March 17th to disarm or face military intervention. Last night GW basically says he's going to send in the troops NO MATTER what the U.N. decision. G.W. doesn't really answer a thing, but brings God, and 9/11 repeatedly into those replies he does give. He's sending in American troops to kill innocent Iraqi citizens and further inflame the anti-American feelings throughout the world (and especially the Mid-East to preserve peace and protect 'democracy'. Oh..why didn't he say so in the first place? Let's go!!

Saddam doesn't have nukes, no a way to make them, while the North Koreans possibly already have them and are making more. We attack one, but 'diplomacy' with other nations is the best route in another case.

After almost thirty years I'm back in touch with a former shipmate from the USS Shreveport. We served together from late 1970 to mid-1972, during the ship's commissioning and early deployments. I found Ken's e-mail address over at a military website for vets to get in touch with each other. What a blast from the past to hear from him and to spend over an hour on the phone catching up.

Have a good weekend and keep the duct tape & plastic wrap handy, just in case!

Sometimes your childhood catches up with you. The past week has brought a few things that reminded me of different periods of my youth and I wanted to quickly mention them (if only to rant for a while).

Last Friday night, while checking the "Guide" on television I was jolted to find that the "Lone Ranger" was listed as being broadcast later in the evening. My initial reaction was that it was the horrible movie from '81 LEGEND OF THE LONE RANGER, however the guide said that this was a new film, so I figured I'd set the VCR just in case.

*sigh* Well, it seems that the WB had hoped that they could revive the series by using their usual "teen drama" formula. Hell, it worked with SMALLVILLE, so why not the "Masked Rider of the Plains". Since I haven't had the time or interest in actually sitting down and watching the entire film, my comments are limited to the 10 minutes or so that I caught while commercials aired on other shows. "Mostly Harmless" pretty much sums up my feelings. The leads are too young, the dialogue to 'hip' and you never get the feeling that anyone is taking the thing seriously, even the 'bad guys'.

Maybe it's just a matter of the LR not fitting into current ideas of entertainment. Given a good script and skilled director, with actors and crew who had a desire to bring some magic to the franchise, maybe it could be done. I just don't see it happening now.

Go over to the link to CBS television and check out Return to the Batcave : The Misadventures of Adam and Burt, which reunites Adam West & Burt Ward. I had first heard about this a couple of years ago and frankly, thought it was one of those ideas that float around Hollywood but never actually get done. Imagine my surprise a few weeks ago when I saw the "Dynamic Duo" over on Entertainment Tonight talking about the TV-movie.

The linked page has some nice stuff, including photos from the movie, the old Batman theme, and a video trailer for the show.

Back when the show was originally aired I was one of those millions of kids who were thrilled, yet kind of bothered at the same time. It was fun watching the overacting and over-the-top scripting, yet as a comics fan, I was insulted that one of my favorite characters was basically being made to look ridiculous. Still I was there 'same Bat-time, same Bat-channel' twice a week watching the show, along with my younger sister and my parents.

It's time to get another tape ready. Hey, maybe I can just tape over the LONE RANGER, huh?

Finally, I got a postcard in the mail informing me that the 35th reunion of my High School class is coming up. Man, has it really been that long? I'll probably end up going, but since it isn't until the Friday after Thanksgiving I'll have plenty of time to change my mind a number of times. I'll keep you updated.

Occasionally I'll be hit by feelings of nostalgia and check in on the whereabouts of some of the Navy ships on which I served.

Seems one (U.S.S. Shreveport) is currently somewhere in the Persian Gulf, while another (U.S.S. Waddell) has been temporarily re-assigned to the Greek Navy. Still another ship (U.S.S. Butte) has been de-commissioned. The first ship on which I served was the U.S.S. Boxer which was de-commissioned in early 1969 and a brand new ship has become the sixth Naval vessel to bear that name. Also a helicopter carrier (as was the ship I sailed on) this ship is also possibly scheduled to be deployed.

"Fair winds and following seas" to former shipmates and those who serve currently on my old vessels. My thoughts are with those Navy guys putting in their time, lifers or not.