Friday, July 30, 2004
Tonight's the Night.
Tonight is Liverpool's match versus Porto and it promises to be VERY
exciting. We had a party last night for the REDS already in town that
went off extremely well - I ran off at Midnight and things were still in
full-swing.
I was interviewed by Liverpool.tv yesterday about the Toronto Match so perhaps I'll be able to post the link of my rambling shortly. The advantage of this interview was that I had the opportunity to attend the Liverpool afternoon practice - a fact that has some life-long LFC Supporters green with envy. This was a significant session too as it was the first day that new signing Josemi was with the Club. Very cool indeed!
Important Lessons Learned Today:
1. Check your watch before making a morning call.
2. Infoware staffers do not want Timbits.
3. Transatlantic IT support is a pain in the ass.
I had confirmation today that the article reviewing Infoware's InCourt
program is ready for publication in Canadian Lawyer magazine. This is a
great opportunity to grow the install base of a high-margin and
strategically important product. Now I just need to finish these damn
models (the programmers are already unhappy with the changes I have
marked as "must haves")
Weather today is so muggy - I hate these hot, dirty Toronto days.
exciting. We had a party last night for the REDS already in town that
went off extremely well - I ran off at Midnight and things were still in
full-swing.
I was interviewed by Liverpool.tv yesterday about the Toronto Match so perhaps I'll be able to post the link of my rambling shortly. The advantage of this interview was that I had the opportunity to attend the Liverpool afternoon practice - a fact that has some life-long LFC Supporters green with envy. This was a significant session too as it was the first day that new signing Josemi was with the Club. Very cool indeed!
Important Lessons Learned Today:
1. Check your watch before making a morning call.
2. Infoware staffers do not want Timbits.
3. Transatlantic IT support is a pain in the ass.
I had confirmation today that the article reviewing Infoware's InCourt
program is ready for publication in Canadian Lawyer magazine. This is a
great opportunity to grow the install base of a high-margin and
strategically important product. Now I just need to finish these damn
models (the programmers are already unhappy with the changes I have
marked as "must haves")
Weather today is so muggy - I hate these hot, dirty Toronto days.
Milk is for babies. When you grow up you have to drink beer.
Reds to Face Austrians GAK
Liverpool have drawn the Graz-based team to qualify for the Champions League. They are to play at Arnold Schwarzenegger Stadium!
Liverpool have drawn the Graz-based team to qualify for the Champions League. They are to play at Arnold Schwarzenegger Stadium!
Thursday, July 29, 2004
Josemi to play in Toronto?
JOSEMI TALKS TO LIVERPOOLFC.TV
Well the LFC-Porto match in Toronto may have its own special signficance in the club history books - it may be where new back Josemi gets his first match in the famous Red Jersey. Liverpool is awaiting approval from FIFA.
Tonight's Welcome Night at the Duke of Gloucester looks to be a lot of fun... I can't wait.
Well the LFC-Porto match in Toronto may have its own special signficance in the club history books - it may be where new back Josemi gets his first match in the famous Red Jersey. Liverpool is awaiting approval from FIFA.
Tonight's Welcome Night at the Duke of Gloucester looks to be a lot of fun... I can't wait.
Muslim force headed to Iraq?
BBC NEWS | World | Middle East | Mixed views on Iraq Muslim force
If this idea is actually being seriously considered, how will it be integrated into the American Coalition framework? How will an American rebuilding of Iraq be coordinated if the interim government and the policing/military infrastructure are not in their control? An interesting development - but not a guaranteed means of improving the Mess-o-potamia.
BBC Analysis
The central issue for creating "legitimacy" for this proposal is how the Muslim force will be integrated (or not).
If this idea is actually being seriously considered, how will it be integrated into the American Coalition framework? How will an American rebuilding of Iraq be coordinated if the interim government and the policing/military infrastructure are not in their control? An interesting development - but not a guaranteed means of improving the Mess-o-potamia.
BBC Analysis
The central issue for creating "legitimacy" for this proposal is how the Muslim force will be integrated (or not).
Wednesday, July 28, 2004
Iraqi War Media Links for Amanda
The following are some media links relating to the staged toppling of the Statue of Saddam in Fardis Square last April. A recently completed inquiry by the Army (published in LA Times) reports that the episode was staged.
Army report confirms Psy-ops staged Saddam statue toppling
Photographs tell story
CNN is still posting the discredited story! Morons.
Other Media Manipulation threads from Iraq
Army report confirms Psy-ops staged Saddam statue toppling
Photographs tell story
CNN is still posting the discredited story! Morons.
Other Media Manipulation threads from Iraq
Remember this Invasion?
The Doctors Without Borders pulls out of Afghanistan
MSF has pulled out of Afganistan after 13 years on the ground, frustrated by that government's failure to satisfactorily investigate the killing of its workers in June, US politically motivated aid and the inherent dangers of the region. Glad to see that the West has done such a good job tidying things up in that region.
As mentioned, I went out last night to see Control Room. An interesting film although as a documentary and intellectual exercise it came up a little short. There were many, many interesting points raised but I don't feel that any were given sufficient exploration. For American audiences, this movie will likely be considered much more inflammatory than Fahrenheit 9/11. The portrayal of American military forces (and particularly command) wavers between ignorance and ineptitude with episodes where they are calculatedly misleading and other episodes where they appear outright liars. Nonetheless a very interesting insight into how the news is "created".
In case you've been on the far side of the moon, turn your speakers up and go to JibJab's Singing and Dancing Presidential Candidates. Very funny stuff.
On a another note, I have been again critized about my web journal entries. Apparently yesterday's explanation of my morning routine was "too boring for anyone to care". And here I was thinking that there was some value in explaining the method in my madness. There really is no satisfying some people.
MSF has pulled out of Afganistan after 13 years on the ground, frustrated by that government's failure to satisfactorily investigate the killing of its workers in June, US politically motivated aid and the inherent dangers of the region. Glad to see that the West has done such a good job tidying things up in that region.
As mentioned, I went out last night to see Control Room. An interesting film although as a documentary and intellectual exercise it came up a little short. There were many, many interesting points raised but I don't feel that any were given sufficient exploration. For American audiences, this movie will likely be considered much more inflammatory than Fahrenheit 9/11. The portrayal of American military forces (and particularly command) wavers between ignorance and ineptitude with episodes where they are calculatedly misleading and other episodes where they appear outright liars. Nonetheless a very interesting insight into how the news is "created".
In case you've been on the far side of the moon, turn your speakers up and go to JibJab's Singing and Dancing Presidential Candidates. Very funny stuff.
On a another note, I have been again critized about my web journal entries. Apparently yesterday's explanation of my morning routine was "too boring for anyone to care". And here I was thinking that there was some value in explaining the method in my madness. There really is no satisfying some people.
Tuesday, July 27, 2004
A HUGE Post
Last night's Liverpool-Celtic Match was fantastic - and I'm sure there were some tears in some Irn Bru after the match end. Liverpool's play was very encouraging with a storming attack and very nice, tight passing. Riise's goal in the first 5 minutes was actually a bit of a shock (to the fans as well as Celtic) and Owen's first half goal was a vintage Owen tip. Murphy did an excellent job of feeding Cisse for two goals and even Henchoz scored! The end result was 5-1 and Celtic looked like crap.
I have been asked on a number of occasions recently how it is that I now can manage to come up with so many comments and links for my daily weblog. I have even have had complaints about the new high level of activity on my site following from months (years) of inactivity or sporadic postings! (for which I also had complaints from the same party). There are two parts to the answer. The first part of the answer is simple - I now have better posting technology. With the current solution, I can very easily grab a web link and add comments from within my browser or send emails to a special address that directly posts the message text to the site. A web log entry now takes seconds or a few minutes as HTML formatting, archiving and uploading are no longer tasks I need be concerned with. Archiving had always been a particularly cumbersome task.
The second part of the comment issue is that it is reflective of my daily routine - every morning I sit down at my computer and...
1. Login and open my Outlook mail.
2. Delete the 50-100 spam messages that make it through my spam filter
3. Read any client or prospect messages.
4. Respond to my Important Dates Reminders
5. Look in the Web Downloads folder and flag recipients
6. Look in the Information Requests folder for leads and delete spams (this hangs Outlook)
7. Open my personal email (respond and delete spam)
8. Open my LFC Toronto mail
9. Go to theToronto Sun website for News and SG
10. Go to Doonesbury on the web
11. Go to the Liverpool Official Site
12. Go to the Globe and Mail website If there is a story or topic that catches my eye, I'll go to the BBC Word News for more details.
13. And then finally, I go to Neal's Blog
Any of these activities can get me looking at other stories, topic or sites which is one reason why my topics may seem so disconnected (another reason being my own randomness of thought). Throughout the day I also get fed links and stories from friends and coworkers. And I get interrupted or distracted or busy during this routine (I made a $1000 sale while writing this message) so it may seem that I'm not doing very much actual work. But hey, I'm just a whirlwind in a thorn tree.
I have been asked on a number of occasions recently how it is that I now can manage to come up with so many comments and links for my daily weblog. I have even have had complaints about the new high level of activity on my site following from months (years) of inactivity or sporadic postings! (for which I also had complaints from the same party). There are two parts to the answer. The first part of the answer is simple - I now have better posting technology. With the current solution, I can very easily grab a web link and add comments from within my browser or send emails to a special address that directly posts the message text to the site. A web log entry now takes seconds or a few minutes as HTML formatting, archiving and uploading are no longer tasks I need be concerned with. Archiving had always been a particularly cumbersome task.
The second part of the comment issue is that it is reflective of my daily routine - every morning I sit down at my computer and...
1. Login and open my Outlook mail.
2. Delete the 50-100 spam messages that make it through my spam filter
3. Read any client or prospect messages.
4. Respond to my Important Dates Reminders
5. Look in the Web Downloads folder and flag recipients
6. Look in the Information Requests folder for leads and delete spams (this hangs Outlook)
7. Open my personal email (respond and delete spam)
8. Open my LFC Toronto mail
9. Go to theToronto Sun website for News and SG
10. Go to Doonesbury on the web
11. Go to the Liverpool Official Site
12. Go to the Globe and Mail website If there is a story or topic that catches my eye, I'll go to the BBC Word News for more details.
13. And then finally, I go to Neal's Blog
Any of these activities can get me looking at other stories, topic or sites which is one reason why my topics may seem so disconnected (another reason being my own randomness of thought). Throughout the day I also get fed links and stories from friends and coworkers. And I get interrupted or distracted or busy during this routine (I made a $1000 sale while writing this message) so it may seem that I'm not doing very much actual work. But hey, I'm just a whirlwind in a thorn tree.
Baring all for Canada
Toronto Sun: NEWS
Hahaha. This is the lead story in the Toronto Sun - seems Canadian Immigration Officers require exotic dancers to provide nude photos of their work to ensure no one cheats the system. Sounds prefectly reasonable to me!
Hahaha. This is the lead story in the Toronto Sun - seems Canadian Immigration Officers require exotic dancers to provide nude photos of their work to ensure no one cheats the system. Sounds prefectly reasonable to me!
Monday, July 26, 2004
But can they get alimony?
SA women warned on fake weddings
Identity theft in SA has resulted in thousands of women getting married without their consent.
Identity theft in SA has resulted in thousands of women getting married without their consent.
Procrastinating.
I do have work to do today, but haven't sunk my teeth into any of the larger projects which I have on my "to do" list. I have an important conference call at 2, so I'll definitely be "in the game" by that time. The Civil Procedure model that I'm working on is getting more and more complex.
This weekend's pool/keg party went off reasonably well. It made for a long day, but I had a good time and no one seemed to really embarass themselves, so that's also good. Thanks to those who could come out and I hope you also had a good time. I'm struggling to think as to what I did on Friday night... ah yes, went to a PWC shin-dig. Some interesting characters a go-going night!
Plans for tomorrow include going to see the movie Control Room after boxing and yoga. Control Room is a documentary about the Iraq war with the filmmaker spending the war following people she met at Qatar-based Arab news network Al-Jazeera's HQ and the US military's central command.
Had a bit of a laugh last night when a commentator during the Red Sox match commented that Kerry (in attendance at the game before the Democratic Convention) "might just win the Democratic nomination". Uh, thanks, guy - Ya think?
This weekend's pool/keg party went off reasonably well. It made for a long day, but I had a good time and no one seemed to really embarass themselves, so that's also good. Thanks to those who could come out and I hope you also had a good time. I'm struggling to think as to what I did on Friday night... ah yes, went to a PWC shin-dig. Some interesting characters a go-going night!
Plans for tomorrow include going to see the movie Control Room after boxing and yoga. Control Room is a documentary about the Iraq war with the filmmaker spending the war following people she met at Qatar-based Arab news network Al-Jazeera's HQ and the US military's central command.
Had a bit of a laugh last night when a commentator during the Red Sox match commented that Kerry (in attendance at the game before the Democratic Convention) "might just win the Democratic nomination". Uh, thanks, guy - Ya think?
Le Tallec Going Out on Loan?
LFC: Benitez Making Moves
Argh! Le Tallac has been encouraged to go out on loan this year by Benitez! Makes sense if they're looking for him to develop, but all the same he's an exciting player to have in a Red Jersey. Barring any trades or transfers, it would seem that the four strikers for next season will be Owen, Cisse, Baros and Sinama-Pongolle.
Argh! Le Tallac has been encouraged to go out on loan this year by Benitez! Makes sense if they're looking for him to develop, but all the same he's an exciting player to have in a Red Jersey. Barring any trades or transfers, it would seem that the four strikers for next season will be Owen, Cisse, Baros and Sinama-Pongolle.
Mess-o-potamia
BBC NEWS | Middle East | Senior Iraqi official shot dead
This is the 10th such killng since Allawi's government took power last month. However, in my mind what is more troubling and more disrupting to the potential success of the interim government is killing of citizens who are cooperating with or working for Coalition agencies. Most recently, two Iraqi women working as cleaners were killed.
This is the 10th such killng since Allawi's government took power last month. However, in my mind what is more troubling and more disrupting to the potential success of the interim government is killing of citizens who are cooperating with or working for Coalition agencies. Most recently, two Iraqi women working as cleaners were killed.
Friday, July 23, 2004
Diouf not making the trip.
Reds announce 23 man squad for NA Tour
This is not a surprising development. I liked Diouf and he is an exciting player but he never fit into his role at Liverpool - far too many cards as well. Should be exciting to see Pongolle and La Tallec fighting their way onto the pitch! The Toronto match is a week today!
This is not a surprising development. I liked Diouf and he is an exciting player but he never fit into his role at Liverpool - far too many cards as well. Should be exciting to see Pongolle and La Tallec fighting their way onto the pitch! The Toronto match is a week today!
And Just Like That.
It's amazing how quickly things can come together. Infoware has a cascading due-date system that I have been working with a major international firm to deploy. The product doesn't have a large install base and hasn't been given much promotion. However, after meeting with a few of the partners at the client firm last week, I had decided that it was probably time to step-up the product and its marketing prominence (as the client provided the strong demonstration of value I needed by being so darned excited). Last night I decided to ask Graham (I will remember the hard time you gave me) if he had any materials for developing broad models for the Ontario courts in his Bar Admission materials. Happily he did, and I have the details for the models I need. Today Canadian Lawyer called about writing an article... tick, tock...I now need to prepare some in-depth marketing materials!
Doonesbury about Fox News
Doonesbury Daily Dose - July 23,2004
If I use Doonesbury as my source of news, how dumb does that make me?
If I use Doonesbury as my source of news, how dumb does that make me?
Thursday, July 22, 2004
The Bourne Supremacy
the eye review- 07.22.04
Huh. Perhaps I have found something to replace my hereto unmet Kung Fu Friday craving for this weekend - Zombie Nurse in Love fails to capture my imagination.
Huh. Perhaps I have found something to replace my hereto unmet Kung Fu Friday craving for this weekend - Zombie Nurse in Love fails to capture my imagination.
Once in a Blue Moon
Events - Blue Moon - Public Lecture
What do you know... the term "blue moon" actually means something.
What do you know... the term "blue moon" actually means something.
It's Kind of Quiet
This week and last have been pretty dead from a sales activity POV. I am getting queries - last week I spoke with 5 $billion firms - but the pace of correspondence is very laid-back. Many decisions are being run back to the beginning of August. Still I'm getting a good amount work done in preparation for a hopefully busier fall. Right now working on a mailing for mid-size Ontario firms.
Congratulations to Lynne and Andrew who are likely to close on the purchase of their first home today. A momentous day indeed. Ah... the lure of Hamilton... to Hamiltonians. The new place looks very nice.
The Former LFC Players website isn't going anywhere fast these days... the executive of the former players are to meet with the Liverpoolfc.tv team August 5th and I'm not too happy about the fact that we can't seem to get a better level of dialogue with the Executive. Most frustrating is that although the .tv crew should have some excellent resources, I just can't believe that they can properly address the needs of the Former Players. Also, I'm not convinced that it is in the best interest of the LFPA to link themselves so closely with the .tv site.
Boxing last night was brutal - I was totally wiped out. The Indian buffet lunch definitely didn't help (I won't do _that_ again) and the heat was terrible. Despite a 15-minute cool down and ice-cold shower, I was still sweating profusely half-an-hour later. My heart rate was right in the target zone - 150 - so I guess I wasn't in danger of a heart-attack.
Molson and Coors today announced that they are planning to merge - Coors is the senior partner. It's not too surprising I guess as there have worldwide been so many mergers in the brewing industry. Canada's major brewers are renown for their screw-ups in investment - Beaver Lumber anyone? - and definitely have not been able to successfully navigate changing tastes in recent decades. I understand that Molson's Marca Bavaria purchase was been a disaster from a channel management POV.
Alas, no more major Canadian brewers. (Canada's No.1 beer is Bud)
Found my keys. Grr.
Congratulations to Lynne and Andrew who are likely to close on the purchase of their first home today. A momentous day indeed. Ah... the lure of Hamilton... to Hamiltonians. The new place looks very nice.
The Former LFC Players website isn't going anywhere fast these days... the executive of the former players are to meet with the Liverpoolfc.tv team August 5th and I'm not too happy about the fact that we can't seem to get a better level of dialogue with the Executive. Most frustrating is that although the .tv crew should have some excellent resources, I just can't believe that they can properly address the needs of the Former Players. Also, I'm not convinced that it is in the best interest of the LFPA to link themselves so closely with the .tv site.
Boxing last night was brutal - I was totally wiped out. The Indian buffet lunch definitely didn't help (I won't do _that_ again) and the heat was terrible. Despite a 15-minute cool down and ice-cold shower, I was still sweating profusely half-an-hour later. My heart rate was right in the target zone - 150 - so I guess I wasn't in danger of a heart-attack.
Molson and Coors today announced that they are planning to merge - Coors is the senior partner. It's not too surprising I guess as there have worldwide been so many mergers in the brewing industry. Canada's major brewers are renown for their screw-ups in investment - Beaver Lumber anyone? - and definitely have not been able to successfully navigate changing tastes in recent decades. I understand that Molson's Marca Bavaria purchase was been a disaster from a channel management POV.
Alas, no more major Canadian brewers. (Canada's No.1 beer is Bud)
Found my keys. Grr.
Wednesday, July 21, 2004
Who will be wearing a RED Jersey in a month?
Barcelona now after Sami?
So the Catalans are now targeting Sami Hyypia for a move. Can't say I have emotions either way on that move. In my mind, Sami didn't have a good season last year and it might be a good idea to shake up the Liverpool defenders.
Rafa Benitez's first match at the helm of Liverpool is today and it also marks the debut of Djibril Cisse. Benitez tells us that he is looking for the current squad to find their places in his team, but (unless there is some language barrier) it sounds like he has in mind the acquisition of one or two players regardless. So who is coming and who is going? I wouldn't be shedding tears if Biscan and Henchoz were to go...
On another note, what of Le Tallec? I haven't heard tell of the young Frenchman in months!
So the Catalans are now targeting Sami Hyypia for a move. Can't say I have emotions either way on that move. In my mind, Sami didn't have a good season last year and it might be a good idea to shake up the Liverpool defenders.
Rafa Benitez's first match at the helm of Liverpool is today and it also marks the debut of Djibril Cisse. Benitez tells us that he is looking for the current squad to find their places in his team, but (unless there is some language barrier) it sounds like he has in mind the acquisition of one or two players regardless. So who is coming and who is going? I wouldn't be shedding tears if Biscan and Henchoz were to go...
On another note, what of Le Tallec? I haven't heard tell of the young Frenchman in months!
Tuesday, July 20, 2004
Baros: Forget Madrid, I want to stay here
Baros To Stay! Hooray!
Looks like my fave Liverpool striker is to stay with the team! Now how will Benitez mix it up? I can't wait for tomorrow's game...
Looks like my fave Liverpool striker is to stay with the team! Now how will Benitez mix it up? I can't wait for tomorrow's game...
Monday, July 19, 2004
Linda Ronstadt?
This is a story I would definitely put in the"What the?" category. CNN reported that pro-F9/11 comments made by Linda Ronstadt at a Vegas Casino before her encore performance set off a riot. Ronstadt has been outspoken in her support of the Michael Moore film.
Stupid Viking Quest Game
Can anyone score higher than 860 in the BBC Viking Quest Game? How do you do it?
Being Bitten?
Ever wonder what the best way is to deal with mosquitoes? From a new study, it apparently is best to flick them.
Neal's House of Glass
Neal may not be polishing his website up (Page Titles? Comments?), but he is doing some nice work in stained glass. Neal's New Glass Page. I've got to get me one of them digital cameras.
Who is that trapped behind the piano?
If I am in hospital tomorrow it is because my Mother hurt me.
Clarification - my Mother wasn't actually hurting me. I was home on Sunday and was tasked with helping her move several large pieces of furniture about the house. It was a lot of lifting. In the future I will encourage the purchase of modular pieces of furniture - plastics would be OK as well. I don't think my furniture moving days are behind me...
Clarification - my Mother wasn't actually hurting me. I was home on Sunday and was tasked with helping her move several large pieces of furniture about the house. It was a lot of lifting. In the future I will encourage the purchase of modular pieces of furniture - plastics would be OK as well. I don't think my furniture moving days are behind me...
Friday, July 16, 2004
Martha gets Jail Time
Martha Stewart sentenced to 5m Prison
The Martha Stewart saga has more-or-less come to an end with the Diva sent to jail for obstructing a federal investigation. Stewart's sentencing will be viewed by some as her being a fall-girl for the Corporate Governance scandals of the last few years - such as Enron and Worldcom. This is simply not the case. Stewart got greedy, got caught receiving an insider-trading tip and now has paid the price. She didn't mislead investors or falsify accounting records. What I think makes this all that more amusing is that Stewart was a Trader prior to her rise as the "Master Decorator". Her "you can't touch me" attitude at times probably didn't help her defence. What happens to America's living rooms now that the Stewart brand is tarnished? Is it back to shag rugs and plastic chairs?
The Martha Stewart saga has more-or-less come to an end with the Diva sent to jail for obstructing a federal investigation. Stewart's sentencing will be viewed by some as her being a fall-girl for the Corporate Governance scandals of the last few years - such as Enron and Worldcom. This is simply not the case. Stewart got greedy, got caught receiving an insider-trading tip and now has paid the price. She didn't mislead investors or falsify accounting records. What I think makes this all that more amusing is that Stewart was a Trader prior to her rise as the "Master Decorator". Her "you can't touch me" attitude at times probably didn't help her defence. What happens to America's living rooms now that the Stewart brand is tarnished? Is it back to shag rugs and plastic chairs?
Thanks for the B-Day Wishes!
Thank you to everyone who gave me a call or message on my Birthday. I was surprised and touched by the many messages I received.
Tonight's play - to which all are welcome - is dinner at Bombay Palace followed by music & drinks in the Distillery District.
Tonight's play - to which all are welcome - is dinner at Bombay Palace followed by music & drinks in the Distillery District.
Baros on the Move? No!
Baros to go to Barcelona
My favourite Liverpool striker, Milan Baros, is reported on the move to Barcelona. Guess he didn't like the look of being a sub for Liverpool's Owen and Cisse. Hope it's not true! I loved the way this guy plays and was looking forward to seeing how Benitez might handle some developing depth in his striker ranks.
My favourite Liverpool striker, Milan Baros, is reported on the move to Barcelona. Guess he didn't like the look of being a sub for Liverpool's Owen and Cisse. Hope it's not true! I loved the way this guy plays and was looking forward to seeing how Benitez might handle some developing depth in his striker ranks.
Thursday, July 15, 2004
Fahrenheit 9/11
On July 10th I saw Michael Moore's new film Fahrenheit 9/11.
Now before I start talking about the film, let's note that in my opinion:
(a) Bush is a poor President,
(b) the War on Terror is misadministered and is fundamentally misguided and,
(c) the Invasions of Iraq is an epic misadventure.
This will save many readers valuable time as those who disagree can now stop reading.
This declaration on my part highlights the issue that will limit the success of Moore's picture. With Fahrenheit 9/11, Moore will be overwhelmingly preaching to the converted. Moore is a very public figure whose political point of view is now fairly well known. His introduction to the general public was a chastising of the President when he accepted his AA - simultaneously introducing and polarizing (and likely marginalizing?) his image in the eyes of America. Since that time, Moore's political activities have been increasingly better publicized and the scope of his material has broadened. An apparent side effect of his personal fame being that he has now, perhaps irreversibly, tried his personal political views to his work as a film-maker. This is unfortunate, as I believe it will limit each film's ability to create a public dialogue based on its own merits, and will instead be seen as party politicking. Consequently I would expect that only those who are sympathetic to his POV will be slapping down their dollars and matching into and out of the theatre. For the majority of F9/11 viewers, the movie is going to be about confirming the reasons for their current distrust of the Bush Regime.
Before talking to the specifics of the film, it is very important to mention that of all the Moore films this has the least amount of Moore. In F9/11, the editing room allows the contradictions, the errors and at the times the apparent lies of the Bush Administration to be run back to back to back. The film connects the dots and chronologically presents the Bush timeline. The end effect of which (or at least the attempt of which) being that the Bush Team hoists themselves on their own petard(s?).
So let's talk to the film [but not spoil it]. F9/11 is a film about engaging the undecided voter and making him want to vote in the coming election. There are many threads onto which a person can latch onto in the film and they are all put forward with a some amount of credible evidence (supplied by the parties themselves). These threads include:
(1) the Bush Family have strong financial ties to the House of Saud, and the oil sector in general
(2) GWB is not a capable executive
(3) the White House (and Congress) have needlessly put American lives into harm's way for private interest
The film relies to some degree on the audience to decide that the current State of Nation is a giant mess. The Invasion of Iraq being an exception as the footage of the troops on the ground leaves little room for ambiguity - it's a nightmare, pure and simple. It is hard to reconcile the declared objectives of the campaign with what is shown to be occurring - a big piece being that the White House is looking after the corporate interest rather than the interests of its troops and citizens. The "Greatest American Hero" sequence is inspired.
I have been told that there is a plan underway to show F9/11 on television around the time of the election. This may be an effective means to mobilize voters and it may engage an audience who were unable or unwilling to watch the film in the theatre. It will be interesting to see how it is received.
Now before I start talking about the film, let's note that in my opinion:
(a) Bush is a poor President,
(b) the War on Terror is misadministered and is fundamentally misguided and,
(c) the Invasions of Iraq is an epic misadventure.
This will save many readers valuable time as those who disagree can now stop reading.
This declaration on my part highlights the issue that will limit the success of Moore's picture. With Fahrenheit 9/11, Moore will be overwhelmingly preaching to the converted. Moore is a very public figure whose political point of view is now fairly well known. His introduction to the general public was a chastising of the President when he accepted his AA - simultaneously introducing and polarizing (and likely marginalizing?) his image in the eyes of America. Since that time, Moore's political activities have been increasingly better publicized and the scope of his material has broadened. An apparent side effect of his personal fame being that he has now, perhaps irreversibly, tried his personal political views to his work as a film-maker. This is unfortunate, as I believe it will limit each film's ability to create a public dialogue based on its own merits, and will instead be seen as party politicking. Consequently I would expect that only those who are sympathetic to his POV will be slapping down their dollars and matching into and out of the theatre. For the majority of F9/11 viewers, the movie is going to be about confirming the reasons for their current distrust of the Bush Regime.
Before talking to the specifics of the film, it is very important to mention that of all the Moore films this has the least amount of Moore. In F9/11, the editing room allows the contradictions, the errors and at the times the apparent lies of the Bush Administration to be run back to back to back. The film connects the dots and chronologically presents the Bush timeline. The end effect of which (or at least the attempt of which) being that the Bush Team hoists themselves on their own petard(s?).
So let's talk to the film [but not spoil it]. F9/11 is a film about engaging the undecided voter and making him want to vote in the coming election. There are many threads onto which a person can latch onto in the film and they are all put forward with a some amount of credible evidence (supplied by the parties themselves). These threads include:
(1) the Bush Family have strong financial ties to the House of Saud, and the oil sector in general
(2) GWB is not a capable executive
(3) the White House (and Congress) have needlessly put American lives into harm's way for private interest
The film relies to some degree on the audience to decide that the current State of Nation is a giant mess. The Invasion of Iraq being an exception as the footage of the troops on the ground leaves little room for ambiguity - it's a nightmare, pure and simple. It is hard to reconcile the declared objectives of the campaign with what is shown to be occurring - a big piece being that the White House is looking after the corporate interest rather than the interests of its troops and citizens. The "Greatest American Hero" sequence is inspired.
I have been told that there is a plan underway to show F9/11 on television around the time of the election. This may be an effective means to mobilize voters and it may engage an audience who were unable or unwilling to watch the film in the theatre. It will be interesting to see how it is received.
Los Lobos in TO - 07.17.04
Los Lobos to play Free Concert
One of my favourite bands - Los Lobos - is playing on Queen's Quay Saturday night! Sweet!
One of my favourite bands - Los Lobos - is playing on Queen's Quay Saturday night! Sweet!
Wednesday, July 14, 2004
Spiderman
Perhaps it’s just that I'm getting older, but it doesn't seem that long ago that Mech Warrior seemed the pinnacle of computer games and Terminator 2 was considered outstanding for its special effects. I remember watching "The Making of Return of the Jedi" and being amazed by the technical achievement - thinking it would be impossible to make significant future advances. Watching Spiderman last night, I must admit that those days are now long gone.
Some of the effects in the film are outstanding - no extraordinary. Doctor Octupus' robotic arms are so amazingly rendered and manipulated that - quite honestly - you'd expect to see someone smashing up the street with a similar affliction. There is no question that what helped to create this illusion were the expressions of the arms - the external evidence of the inner turmoil of Doc Oct was a fine detail.
The movie itself is good summer action fare. Your life won't be changed, but you will be entertained (allow it's hard to imagine watching the flick on the small screen). The acting is very solid, the plot well-paced and interesting, the action enthralling and the cinematography unfailing. Spiderman purists won't care for the plot direction, but it is a compelling storyline. (Male) Fans of the first pic will be treated to another totally unexpected scene with Kirsten Dunst that continues the "what the #*@% was that?" factor of the "caught in summer storm" sequence.
And guess what? They have already set up the sequel! I'm not complaining - this is a good standard for Hollywood action films.
Some of the effects in the film are outstanding - no extraordinary. Doctor Octupus' robotic arms are so amazingly rendered and manipulated that - quite honestly - you'd expect to see someone smashing up the street with a similar affliction. There is no question that what helped to create this illusion were the expressions of the arms - the external evidence of the inner turmoil of Doc Oct was a fine detail.
The movie itself is good summer action fare. Your life won't be changed, but you will be entertained (allow it's hard to imagine watching the flick on the small screen). The acting is very solid, the plot well-paced and interesting, the action enthralling and the cinematography unfailing. Spiderman purists won't care for the plot direction, but it is a compelling storyline. (Male) Fans of the first pic will be treated to another totally unexpected scene with Kirsten Dunst that continues the "what the #*@% was that?" factor of the "caught in summer storm" sequence.
And guess what? They have already set up the sequel! I'm not complaining - this is a good standard for Hollywood action films.
Tuesday, July 13, 2004
Argh!
Looks like I'm cancelling my workouts for tonight! Have too much stuff on the "to do" list... I must get at least one more demo done for a client and have marketing materials to prepare. I haven't even been able to make one phone call about our new forms suite.
My meeting today was bizarre - fellow had no sense of the complexity of the project he is managing - by which I mean n_o i_d_e_a. He also didn't seem to understand that a quote of 16 to 80 hours means that something might take, well, 16 to 80 hours to do. Not to mention that he seemed surprised that we might have other projects on the go!
My falafel was good though!
My meeting today was bizarre - fellow had no sense of the complexity of the project he is managing - by which I mean n_o i_d_e_a. He also didn't seem to understand that a quote of 16 to 80 hours means that something might take, well, 16 to 80 hours to do. Not to mention that he seemed surprised that we might have other projects on the go!
My falafel was good though!
Turtlenecks in Summer
You asked, we answer!
Results of a Google search on the phrase "turtlenecks in summer" with a mind to understanding why someone would pull on a turtleneck on a hot July day when they are calling for it to be 35'C.
"Keaton is an uptight woman who wears turtlenecks in summer. Nicholson is a relaxed, jolly soul". Something's Gotta Give. (This sounds so familiar)
"The mom drops them off with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Usually in rags or other inappropriate clothing (turtlenecks in summer is very common)." How to be a better Stepmom.
Turtleneck in summer = hickey. I swear that turtleneck wearing isn't my fault!
For those playing at home: Yes, I am hysterical.
Results of a Google search on the phrase "turtlenecks in summer" with a mind to understanding why someone would pull on a turtleneck on a hot July day when they are calling for it to be 35'C.
"Keaton is an uptight woman who wears turtlenecks in summer. Nicholson is a relaxed, jolly soul". Something's Gotta Give. (This sounds so familiar)
"The mom drops them off with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Usually in rags or other inappropriate clothing (turtlenecks in summer is very common)." How to be a better Stepmom.
Turtleneck in summer = hickey. I swear that turtleneck wearing isn't my fault!
For those playing at home: Yes, I am hysterical.
Monday, July 12, 2004
Reaching Fahrenheit 9/11
On Saturday I saw Michael Moore's Fahrenheit 9/11 and I am currently "drafting" my response to the film. So far I've stopped and started several times, lost my composition due to a mail-client refresh default and have been interrupted several times. In other words, this might take a while.
Last night on "Meet the Press" one of the commentators raised an interesting point in a discussion of the Senate's Intelligence Report (the Roberts - Rockefeller interview was fascinating). His point - that although an important question, the issue is no longer "did Bush act on bad information?" but is now "how will the Bush administration resolve the current situation in Iraq?". Bush's political future is no longer dependent on whether or not he sent troops into harm's way for the wrong reasons, but how he is going to bring them back home. In this regard, Bush has wagered his political future on something pretty terrible - the success of a measurable and external party. The continuing presence of American soldiers in Iraq is a given. However, should the Allawi Government fail to quell attacks on US troops in the next few months, it would be expected that Bush will have a bad November. [Currently the Americans have a 2% approval rating among Iraqis]
Question: If Allawi kicks America out - how will this be received at home?
BTW, did anyone know that Coalition of the Willing member the Philippines have 51 troops in Iraq (population 86M)?
Last night on "Meet the Press" one of the commentators raised an interesting point in a discussion of the Senate's Intelligence Report (the Roberts - Rockefeller interview was fascinating). His point - that although an important question, the issue is no longer "did Bush act on bad information?" but is now "how will the Bush administration resolve the current situation in Iraq?". Bush's political future is no longer dependent on whether or not he sent troops into harm's way for the wrong reasons, but how he is going to bring them back home. In this regard, Bush has wagered his political future on something pretty terrible - the success of a measurable and external party. The continuing presence of American soldiers in Iraq is a given. However, should the Allawi Government fail to quell attacks on US troops in the next few months, it would be expected that Bush will have a bad November. [Currently the Americans have a 2% approval rating among Iraqis]
Question: If Allawi kicks America out - how will this be received at home?
BTW, did anyone know that Coalition of the Willing member the Philippines have 51 troops in Iraq (population 86M)?
I can think of better ways to start the week.
It's 20 minutes past 12 and I'm still frazzled from this morning's
commute. K was late getting out of the house this morning, which upset
her, which upset me. And which continues to upset me and I'm pretty
sure will continue to upset her. I feel pretty helpless in this
situation and I'm also pretty frustrated (or even angry). I do really
want to help and make things better.
commute. K was late getting out of the house this morning, which upset
her, which upset me. And which continues to upset me and I'm pretty
sure will continue to upset her. I feel pretty helpless in this
situation and I'm also pretty frustrated (or even angry). I do really
want to help and make things better.
Thommo Already Gone!
A few days ago I wondered aloud about Phil Thompson's future as a coach at Anfield. It seems I'm still playing catch-up as he left the Club a few weeks ago! Argh! Story
And here I thought I was being a good boy keeping up to date with my LFC reading. >sigh<
And here I thought I was being a good boy keeping up to date with my LFC reading. >sigh<
Saturday, July 10, 2004
Brave Huo knows his Kung Fu
For the record, 18 SWIRLING RIDERS didn't make a hell of a lot of sense. There wasn't much RIDING, there was much crazy kung fu but not much SWIRLING per se and I'm not so sure as to whether there really was 18 of them. I am still trying to understand what the7000 tael picture of Eight Carp had to do with anything. Most of the characters who I think were the 18 SWIRLING RIDERS were wiped out by a razor-fish throwing assassin who apparently owned a drug store. It was hilarious!
Friday, July 09, 2004
Kung Fu Friday!
Stop the presses! Could it be that it's Kung Fu Friday at the Royal? Now here is a guilty pleasure that I never would have convinced K to attend.
Tonight's feature is 18 SWIRLING RIDERS - a squadron of bandits who steal from the rich and give to the poor drawng the wrath of corrupt government officials who hire assassins to execute these do-gooders. They also cross the path of thieves with names like “Bone Crusher” and “Sea Dragon” who disagree with their trendsetting ways of donating to charity. Wacky leaps and spins through the air plus a climatic swordfight where combatants walk up trees and bounce off branches! Poisonous darts! Daggers await at every turn! Hoorah for the raging thunder of the 18 SWIRLING RIDERS!
Tonight's feature is 18 SWIRLING RIDERS - a squadron of bandits who steal from the rich and give to the poor drawng the wrath of corrupt government officials who hire assassins to execute these do-gooders. They also cross the path of thieves with names like “Bone Crusher” and “Sea Dragon” who disagree with their trendsetting ways of donating to charity. Wacky leaps and spins through the air plus a climatic swordfight where combatants walk up trees and bounce off branches! Poisonous darts! Daggers await at every turn! Hoorah for the raging thunder of the 18 SWIRLING RIDERS!
Another Weekend without K
Well KW is away again this weekend - this time she and her houseguest are headed to Montreal, Quebec City and Ottawa. It's an awful lot of travelling for 2 and half days, but I couldn't convince her otherwise.
Finding myself without any set plans for the weekend really isn't a problem. I have boxing tomorrow morning, and hear that the weather is going to be nice, so perhaps a lot blade is in order after my class. I have some housework and plant re-potting that I've long been postponing, so that's probably good for an hour or so. I imagine that I won't have a hard time finding interest to see the new Spiderman, but really I should go and see Fahrenheit 9/11. Perhaps I'll sneak in a Yoga class as well. And perhaps I'll spin up to Scally's for a bevvy too.
Had the misfortune to see Kerry on Larry King last night. H_e i_s s_o s_t_i_f_f . If I hear his lame "joke" about Edwards' son being able to swim with his head above water again I'm going to cry. Is this man - our Great White Hope? - the one to pull America and the world out of its militant and xenophobic tailspin? Al Gore looks so good right now - you couldn't actually _see_ the hamster running in his wheel (as opposed to the confused and logo festooned lemming that occasionally limps inside Bush's skull).
Finding myself without any set plans for the weekend really isn't a problem. I have boxing tomorrow morning, and hear that the weather is going to be nice, so perhaps a lot blade is in order after my class. I have some housework and plant re-potting that I've long been postponing, so that's probably good for an hour or so. I imagine that I won't have a hard time finding interest to see the new Spiderman, but really I should go and see Fahrenheit 9/11. Perhaps I'll sneak in a Yoga class as well. And perhaps I'll spin up to Scally's for a bevvy too.
Had the misfortune to see Kerry on Larry King last night. H_e i_s s_o s_t_i_f_f . If I hear his lame "joke" about Edwards' son being able to swim with his head above water again I'm going to cry. Is this man - our Great White Hope? - the one to pull America and the world out of its militant and xenophobic tailspin? Al Gore looks so good right now - you couldn't actually _see_ the hamster running in his wheel (as opposed to the confused and logo festooned lemming that occasionally limps inside Bush's skull).
Neal's Website Changes Again.
Untitled Document
Neal has updated his site to have a homepage link to his online journal. He has also added some details about what's recently being going on in hislife... PhD and a new place. Whatever. ;P
Neal - a few comments about your site:
1. Fix the comments feature!
2. Give your new homepage a Title! (I can make suggestions...)
Neal has updated his site to have a homepage link to his online journal. He has also added some details about what's recently being going on in hislife... PhD and a new place. Whatever. ;P
Neal - a few comments about your site:
1. Fix the comments feature!
2. Give your new homepage a Title! (I can make suggestions...)
Thursday, July 08, 2004
Sammy feeling winds of Change?
Sammy Lee Leaves LIVERPOOL FC
Liverpool fixture Sammy Lee is leaving the club for a position with the FA. Is this move related to Rafa's coming to the Club? Sammy is definitely one of the Club's "old guard"... what of Thompson, Rush and Heighway? Are they on the move as well?
Liverpool fixture Sammy Lee is leaving the club for a position with the FA. Is this move related to Rafa's coming to the Club? Sammy is definitely one of the Club's "old guard"... what of Thompson, Rush and Heighway? Are they on the move as well?
Good Grief.
There really is no satisfying some people. For months I am pestered with comments and complaints that essentially all come down to the fact that my web page is not being updated. OK, fine, it's true that there is no point paying for web space and service to so rarely make use of it. There was a reason I created the page in the first place. So I (finally) spend some time and get my act sufficiently together to make changes to this site. The reaction? "This is not a BLOG", "So and so doesn't like your site", "This is so different". >Giant sigh< I mean really. You do something, and it's instantly met with displeasure/complaining/criticism. This is not to say that I expected or wanted to be congratulated, patted on the head or anything - but ... crap this isn't true. I did want to be patted on the head. Damn.
Wednesday, July 07, 2004
Liverpool Football Club - Toronto Branch Website
Liverpool Football Club - Toronto Branch Website
My sometime obsession - the LFC Toronto site - has some details regarding the upcoming LFC vs. FC Porto match to be played in Toronto on July 30th.
My sometime obsession - the LFC Toronto site - has some details regarding the upcoming LFC vs. FC Porto match to be played in Toronto on July 30th.
Neal Jumps on the Blogger Bandwagon.
Neal Harrison Site
Brother Neal has added a blogger page to his site as well. Neal has some great photos on his site of the Virginia Tech's Lane Stadium (which is larger than Anfield!).
Brother Neal has added a blogger page to his site as well. Neal has some great photos on his site of the Virginia Tech's Lane Stadium (which is larger than Anfield!).
One of My Projects - optimizing Infoware's Website
Infoware - Document Assembly for Microsoft Word
For my Fans (who are legion), a little taste of the work I've been doing of late - optimizing Infoware's website and writing Online demos. So far these efforts have netted two Fortune 100 firms and has generally improved the quality of lead we are receiving!
For my Fans (who are legion), a little taste of the work I've been doing of late - optimizing Infoware's website and writing Online demos. So far these efforts have netted two Fortune 100 firms and has generally improved the quality of lead we are receiving!
Remembering the 96
Liverpoolfc.tv: Sun Apology
OK, why do I care? It's about respect - for the dead, for friends, for our fellow man. Does the Sun's reporting of Hillsborough disaster impact my life in any way. No, it doesn't. But this kind of "reporting" is not limited to Merseyside in '89, it is rampant in our private interest-driven press and cannot EVER be tolerated.
"No man is an island, entire to itself".
OK, why do I care? It's about respect - for the dead, for friends, for our fellow man. Does the Sun's reporting of Hillsborough disaster impact my life in any way. No, it doesn't. But this kind of "reporting" is not limited to Merseyside in '89, it is rampant in our private interest-driven press and cannot EVER be tolerated.
"No man is an island, entire to itself".
Tuesday, July 06, 2004
Viva Ben! Ben Launches a New Blog for a New Era
Be afraid!?
In an attempt to improve my blogging (read ranting), I have made the move to better blogging technology!
Viva!
In an attempt to improve my blogging (read ranting), I have made the move to better blogging technology!
Viva!
