Pike Speak

Salsa Roja

2012-01-05T14:41:00.000-05:00

Barry’s Salsa Roja

8 Roma tomatoes, whole
1 medium sweet onion, sliced
1 Jalapeno/Serrano pepper, whole, cored
1 medium bell pepper, quartered, cored
3 whole garlic cloves
3 tbsp olive or canola oil
1 tsp chili powder
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp cilantro (fresh is best!)
1 beef or chicken bouillon cube, crushed
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper

Trim tomatoes and peppers.  Heat olive oil in large skillet.

Saute the tomatoes, garlic, onion, and peppers at medium high heat until they began to blacken.

Put vegetables into food processor or blender and puree until desired consistency (not too much or it will be soupy).

Once blended, return mixture to skillet. Add remaining ingredients, sautéing until sauce thickens. Serve immediately, store in refrigerator, or preserve in jars.

If making a lot of salsa for canning, pour from the food processor into a large stew pot (instead of back into the skillet), then add in remaining ingredients. Make additional skillet batches to get to the quantity you want, mixing them in the large pot. Can them using the same "hot-processing" instructions as you would if you were canning tomatoes.

VERY IMPORTANT: This salsa is ALWAYS best served warm. Microwave briefly before serving.

Note: For more bite, don't core the jalapeno before grilling.

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The Pizza Chronicles - Special Edition 6/5/11

2011-06-05T11:16:00.000-04:00

Watch this 16m documentary about Dom DeMarco, pizzaiolo. It's about art, pizza, family, and the American dream.

"The Best Thing I Ever Done"

The Best Thing I Ever Done HQ from Margaret Emily MacKenzie on Vimeo.

h/t Slice: http://slice.seriouseats.com/

The Pizza Chronicles 04/12/11

2011-04-12T22:44:00.000-04:00

Shrimp and Asparagus

Look, I'm fully aware that in Italy, it is rare and usually inappropriate to comingle cheese and seafood on a pizza pie. But, in some cases I have found that a judicious use of mozzarella and ricotta works and works very well. When did I claim to be a purist?

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Urban Evacuation

2011-03-23T10:31:00.000-04:00

This is a real problem.

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Points of Interest

2011-03-18T21:48:00.000-04:00

1) Nancy is going on a missions trip to Haiti. It is an exciting time and a remarkable opportunity. She's pretty pumped. Please pray for her, if you feel so led.

2) As we get older, we all wage our own personal war against Gravity. This particular law of physics is relentless, insidious, and certainly no respecter of age. However, here is an interesting article from Popular Science about a man who declared war on Gravity and even won a couple of battles. Check out this story about Roger Babson's Gravity Research Foundation.

3) Here's a great article by Michael Ruhlman about cooking dried beans. It's really interesting. Really. Go read it and thank me later. Preferably a couple of days later, if you know what I mean.

4) I bought one of these for some beloved family members. I think you should consider it, too. Especially if you or someone you care about lives in a city. Because, if/when we see TEOTWAWKI, it's going to be drastically worse in the cities than it is in the country. Here's the link, check it out.

I was considering doing this even before the current horrific disaster in Japan. Yet, the need for this kind of preparedness, and even for much, more more, cannot possibly be highlighted with any greater clarity. It is foolish...no, just plain abject stupidity...to think that such a disaster could not happen here.

California, I'm talking to you. Scientists tell us, with near unanimous certainty, that it is not a matter of if, but when, there will be a catastrophic earthquake on the West Coast. And, guess what...there is no truly safe place. The second largest earthquake in North American history chose New Madrid, Missouri as it's epicenter. Remember New Orleans, after all, and then consider even the difficulties suffered by many people during the harshest days of this past winter. And while it is certainly true that, at the appointed hour, we are all going to face our earthly demise, it is my belief that for as long as we are able, we should choose life. In the future, I believe it is not the strongest who will have the greatest chance of survival but, rather, those who planned well.

5) What you believe is important. Not merely that you believe something deeply or with great sincerity, but that you believe the right things, the true things. It is important to remember, too, that just because you don't believe something, it doesn't mean that it is not true. And so, with that in mind, here is that sad, interesting, and unfortunate interview of Rob Bell by journalist Martin Bashir:

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The Pizza Chronicles 03/18/11

2011-03-18T20:33:00.000-04:00

Rihm's FRESH Italian Sausage,

with Baby Spinach, Green Pepper, Mozzarella, and Parmigiano-Regiano.

Yeah, fresh sausage makes a big difference.

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In Which I Indulge in a Very Brief Lament

2011-02-28T23:58:00.003-05:00

Oh, for crying out loud...PikeSpeak, has devolved into what is, essentially, just a food blog. Where is the insightful commentary, the thoughtful prose, the whimsical (and yet manly) poetical musings, the incisive critique of contemporary culture, the music reviews, the deep spiritual philisophicationisms, or the gratuitous self-promotion? Ummm...okay, maybe we have that last one...

Next, I'll probably be posting pix of the "Spaghetti Dinner for 150 People" thing that I'm doing on Family Night this Wednesday at church. That one IS big fun, though, with the all the women from Nancy's Small Group helping out. Actually, "helping" is not really the right word since, without them, it really wouldn't happen at all. I think I may take some pictures of that.

I like spaghetti. It's the best. With garlic bread. If you don't agree, then you clearly weren't raised right and your opinion is wrong.

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The Pizza Chronicles 02/28/11

2011-02-28T23:32:00.001-05:00

If I were more diligent, there would be a Pizza Chronicles update at least once a week. But I'm not, so here's one now.

"Peppered Ham", Artichoke Hearts, Greek Olives, and Mozzarella pizza.

The "Peppered Ham," purchased at my local Krogers, is advertised as Canadian bacon. It's really not, but it is still pretty good on a pizza. They should just call it what it is and not be pretentious about it.

And, if you're not making your own pizza dough, you're not doing it right. If you need a good, fast, simple recipe, let me know...I'll get you going.

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Frittata con salsiccia, spinaci e peperoni rossi

2011-02-27T15:03:00.000-05:00

Or, as we call it around here, Sunday dinner.

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A Casualty in the Kitchen

2011-02-23T23:05:00.001-05:00

This afternoon, I made one of the nicest looking, best tasting loaves of bread to date.

Sadly, after removing the lid to my Bread Pot so that the crust could finish, it slipped out of my potholdered grip, crashing onto the oven door, shattering into three large pieces and several smaller shards.

Bummer. But it could be worse. At least I'm not demonstrating in the square in downtown Tripoli.

Such is life. I'll have to order another Bread Pot soon.

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Fred & Friends

2011-02-05T11:44:00.000-05:00

These guys make some funny, clever products.

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FRED & FRIENDS

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The Pizza Chronicles 01/07/11

2011-01-07T20:00:00.000-05:00

Pizza Patate

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BreadPot

2011-01-03T21:42:00.000-05:00

For Christmas, Nancy gave me something super cool...a ceramic BreadPot. For a couple of months, I had been reading about various breadbaking techniques and ran across a helpful blogpost by Mark Bittman that mentioned a handmade covered baking dish and a fabulous picture. Go check it out when you are done here.

I tracked down Judith Motzkin, her website, her blog and, after more reading, concluded that it would be just the thing. She and I corresponded a bit and she recommended this particular model, with a flatter bottom and deeper lid, because it suited the ciabatta-style bread that I have been making. Here is the first product from my BreadPot, a couple of whole wheat ciabatta loaves:

The BreadPot is an appealing, rustic creation with a cheerfully functional aesthetic. It is simple, beautiful, and artistically made. I liked it as soon as I saw it, even before trying it out. Judith includes a bread recipe, indelibly inscribed in the lid, something she does with all of her pots. I will try it soon. She also has a rye bread recipe that I will find again and try soon, too.

I cooked the bread at 425 degrees for 20 minutes like I normally do on my pizza stone, then I took the lid off, and cooked it for 10 more minutes to firm the crust. It worked perfectly, rendering a good texture, firm crust, and full flavor. It will take a little tweaking of ingredients and cooking time, I think, for it to be perfect, but I am off to a good start.

Boomsticks

2010-12-29T18:06:00.000-05:00

Sleeping in, shooting guns with buddies, BBQ for lunch...I must be on vacation.

In both pics, JP is holding Jeff's rifle, a Rossi replica of the .45, lever-action, short-barrel carbine that Chuck Connors used on The Rifleman. Very cool gun. We blew through 300+ rounds of varying kind and calibre this morning.

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Self-sufficiency

2010-12-12T22:45:00.000-05:00

I was struck by the irony of the fact that when I typed "off the grid living" into Google's search engine, there were 5.3 million results returned in .16 seconds.

The Pizza Chronicles 12/3/10

2010-12-03T21:45:00.000-05:00

Roasted garlic brushed crust, tomato sauce, Italian sausage, Ancient Sweets red peppers, mozzarella, and parmesan.

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Culinary Artwork

2010-12-02T23:42:00.001-05:00

Some work with oil paint, some throw clay or design ceramic masterpieces. Others mold artwork out of plastic, glass, and metal. Some create their own worlds with words in prose or poetry.

I prefer yeast, flour, and water.

And occasionally some garlic.

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Pizza 11/26/10

2010-11-26T23:26:00.000-05:00

Chicken Sausage with Mozzarella & Goat Cheese, Bell Pepper, Campiano Tomatoes, and Artichoke Hearts.

Meat Loaf Bundt with a Tunnel of Egg

2010-11-02T10:46:00.001-04:00

Never before have I felt the slightest inclination to cook with a bundt pan. It's fine for other people and I do not judge, but most of the food I've seen come out of bundt pans are just not really my kind of thing.

This, however, is very much my kind of thing.

Behold, the Meat Loaf Bundt with a Tunnel of Egg:

Please go here to meet the originator of this masterpiece, The Food Librarian, and check out the recipe. This photo, in all of it's raging glory, also is the property of The Food Librarian - I hope she doesn't mind that I used it.
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Progress!

2010-07-26T10:45:00.000-04:00

My official new favorite state, besides Indiana and Texas, is now Arizona. Not only is it beautiful there, if a little toasty during the summer and early fall, but they just seem to be doing a lot of good things lately. I like the new gun law, for example.
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Miles Davis: Cool Jazz Sound - April 1959

2010-07-15T21:38:00.000-04:00

If you don't have Netflix, you probably should. I loved watching this show from 1959 entitled "The Robert Herridge Theater." It is a 30m live concert featuring the Miles Davis Quintet, accompanied by an in-studio orchestra led by Gil Evans. This is a timeless jazz classic performance with cuts from "Kind of Blue " and "Miles Ahead," two albums which epitomize the cool jazz era.

It's cool to see the vintage mics, recording gear, and early television production techniques, too. Fascinating.

Go watch it.

http://www.netflix.com/WiMovie/Miles_Davis_Cool_Jazz_Sound/70014499?trkid=1211018

Shut up already and go DO something.

2010-07-15T11:01:00.000-04:00

The NAACP's accusing the Tea Party Movement of overt racism is as clear a case of the "pot calling the kettle black" as anything I have ever seen. It is as ironic and darkly humorous as it is poisonous and hypocritical. There is no question that, historically, this storied organization has done much outstanding work in the the attainment of civil rights parity for ethnic minorities, principally African-Americans. However, much of their recent work is centered on institutionalizing racism through the same type of self-serving, sensationalistic, race-baiting-for-profit exercises that are routinely engaged in by the Reverends Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson Sr., and similar profiteers.

I guess, like everybody else, they've all got mouths to feed and bills to pay over at the NAACP. And shouting about problems that don't exist is a heckuva lot easier than actually doing something substantive these days. With all of the hopeandchange(tm) going on, plus the very real racism scandal going on at the Justice Department to avoid dealing with, they've really had to work hard to find some way to get themselves back in the news.

Yeah, these people make me a little cynical.
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Theresa Andersson - MBPYNHO

2010-06-08T08:40:00.006-04:00

The latest installment of Music By People You've Never Heard Of.

An excellent combination of solo performance and creative mastery of current musical technology. I really like this girl. Be sure to watch to through the scat solo all the way to the end.

Check her out here.

And also this one. Crazy good...

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"Days With My Father" by Phillip Toledano

2010-06-05T10:50:00.001-04:00

This is a beautiful and moving photo essay. It originated on the web a couple of years ago and is now a book as well.

Days with My Father

h/t Rex Taylor Smith
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Bruschetta with Ricotta, Honey, & Lemon Zest

2010-05-30T22:53:00.000-04:00

This is from the wonderful Food52.com site.

I've made this three or four times now and you should, too. It is one of my new favorite things to make and eat. It's easy and an ingenious blend of flavors. Do it. You can thank me later.

Yes, I snagged the photo AND the recipe from their site.

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Walking in Light

2010-05-21T10:52:00.001-04:00

As I was reading through some Bible passages about the Holy Spirit this morning, I re-stumbled upon a morsel of illuminating commentary in the footnote for I John 1:7. It reads:

Through the Word of God the indwelling Holy Spirit shows the Christian that he (1) still possesses an old nature (v.8), and (2) needs the forgiveness of his sins (vv. 9-10). The blood of Christ is the divine provision for both.

To walk in the light is to live in fellowship with the Father and the Son. Sin interrupts fellowship but cannot change the relationship. Confession restores fellowship and immediate confession keeps the fellowship unbroken.

My Bible of choice is the Oxford New International Version Scofield Study Bible, the 1984 printing of the 1967 edition.

LORAN Tower Demolition...

2010-05-16T21:09:00.000-04:00

...because I like it when stuff blows up and/or falls down.

This was a 1320 ft. tower located in Alaska. I saw this first in RadioWorld Online, one of the trade journals that I read. Sometimes. You can read more about it here if you like to know about stuff that blows up and/or falls down.
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10 Reasons to Delete Your Facebook Account

2010-05-13T08:31:00.002-04:00

An interesting article that makes clear some of the recent debate about Facebook's privacy policy and what it means for users:

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Sharpshooting

2010-05-04T09:49:00.001-04:00

Interesting article from Sky News about a British soldier who recently set a remarkable, if somewhat grisly marksmanship record in Afghanistan. This guy's story is impressive.

To compensate for the distance, he aimed 6 ft. higher, and 20 in. to the left. Here is his rifle:

Click on the picture above for more detail. Here is an informative link to more info on the weapon.
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Ciabatta

2010-04-28T00:03:00.003-04:00

Baking bread is addictive. It's really satisfying when it works out right.
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UPDATE: I've had a request for the recipe, so here it is:

Sponge
1/8 tsp active dry yeast
2 tbsp warm water (105-115 deg F)
1/3 cup room-temp water
1 cup bread flour

Step 1. Stir together warm water and yeast. Let it stand for 5 minutes. Transfer yeast mixture to another bowl, add room-temp water and flour. Stir for at least 4 minutes until fully combined. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let it stand at room temperature for at least 12 hours and up to 1 day,

Bread
1/2 tsp active dry yeast
2 tbsp warm milk (105-115 deg F)
2/3 cup room-temp water
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups bread flour
1 1/2 tsp salt

Step 2. Mix yeast and milk in small bowl and let stand 5 minutes. Oil another bowl with olive oil. In bowl of standing mixer, using dough hook, blend together milk mixture, sponge, oil, and flour on lowest speed until flour is moistened.

Beat for approximately 3 minutes. Add salt and beat for approximately 3 more minutes. Scrape dough into oiled bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Let it set until doubled, at least 1.5 hours.

Step 3. Cut two pieces of parchment paper, approx 12 x 6 inches. Place on baking sheet and flour well. Turn dough out onto a well floured surface and cut in half. Transfer each half to paper and form irregular ovals approx 9 inches long. Dust with flour. Cover with dampened kitchen towel and let rise 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until almost doubled.

Step 4. At least 45 minutes before baking bread, preheat pizza stone on lower oven rack position at 425 F. Just before baking, score the tops of the loaf with a sharp knife. Optionally, lightly sprinkle with coarse kosher or sea salt.

Transfer loafs, on the parchment paper, onto the stone and bake for 20 minutes or until pale golden-brown. Remove to cooling racks. Let rest for 30 minutes or so to allow the crust to cure.

Note that this recipe sounds a lot more difficult than it is. There are only four steps and each one is easy. It is also very forgiving. You can use all-purpose flour if you don’t have bread flour. Or you can mix flours. Results will vary in taste and texture, but it works. Also, if your personal schedule dictates, after completing Step 2, you can store the dough in the refrigerator and go to work (or whatever). It will rise more slowly in the fridge, which is fine…just try to let it rise to about twice the size you started out with, probably 6-8 hours.

The Gospel-Filled Wallet

2010-04-27T17:07:00.002-04:00

One of my internet buddies has written a book. And had it published.

It's called "The Gospel-Filled Wallet," and the author is Jeff Weddle. Read more about it here.

Jeff says you won't like his book, though. He thinks it will hurt your delicate sensibilities. I say buy it and find out....that's what I did.

Plus, I used a coupon from this page, the one entitled "LULUMAIL305" and got free shipping.

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Wal-Mart Haiku

2010-04-26T08:40:00.001-04:00

Tofu and mangoes

Big screen TeeVees from China
And no bread flour?

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Why America Hates Universal Health Care: The Real Reason

2010-03-21T08:56:00.002-04:00

This is a blunt and concise article from Pajamas Media that hits the nail on the head. There is at least one picture associated with this article that some will find offensive but, objectionable as it may be, it does aptly illustrate the author's point.

I am in agreement with 99.5% of the article, otherwise. I think this explains well why so many Americans, regardless of political stripe, object so vehemently to the healthcare legislation that has become the principal feature of President Obama's administration.

Read it here.

"Everybody Gets Knocked Down..."

2010-02-17T21:22:00.000-05:00

An excellent new commercial from Nike. This really is inspiring.

Very artistic, in my opinion. Very well done.

"Why don't the rabbis believe in Jesus?"

2010-02-03T06:16:00.001-05:00

""Why don't the rabbis believe in Jesus?" Many Christians who ask me this assume that all rabbis are extremely knowledgeable about the Hebrew Scriptures. And, they figure, it stands to reason that anyone who is familiar with the many passages that point to Jesus would be persuaded to believe in Him too."

Another interesting article by David Brickner.

His historical perspective is interesting and I find myself in about 95.6% agreement with his conclusions.

I think, too, most of what he says about the true terms of orthodox Jewish religious scholarship also applies to Christian evangelical teachers, writers, and preachers today. My perception is that a lot of what is preached and taught today as doctrine is derived as much or more from the study of popular commentaries and modern interpretations as it is from the Bible itself. In evangelical churches that are more doctrinally conservative, there is a reliance on John MacArthur, Bill Hybels, and John Piper. In the younger, edgier congregations, there is a lot of attention paid to the videos of Rob Bell, the inflammatory sermons by Mark Driscoll, and others. There is always a big buzz when the newest book by Erwin McManus or Brian McLaren is published.

This is not new...25 years ago it was Charles Swindoll, Chuck Colson, James Dobson, and Billy Graham who helped shape the American Christian cultural consciousness. Some of that buzz and hum may be good, but much of it is just noise and you need to be able to discern the difference for yourself.

A diversity of opinion and a broad spectrum of influences and ideas is not necessarily a bad thing, of course, and that is not what I am suggesting. Proverbs 23:12 encourages us to "apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge," which no doubt includes the writings and teachings of others. This theme is repeated in different forms and nuances throughout the Bible.

However, no one should let their study about the Bible take the place of their study of the Bible. If you find yourself more interested in reading some new book about social justice or how to live a dynamic and successful Christian life than you are about reading the book of James, for example, then you need to recalibrate.

Pray in earnest that the Lord will instill or restore in you a love for His word first. It won't take long. When you've got that going, you'll be able to sort through the noise and hear the music.

"Rahm Emanual thinks Democrats are retarded..."

2010-02-02T23:51:00.003-05:00

Glenn Reynolds should get some kind of award for this hilarious headline:

RAHM EMANUEL COMPARES DEMOCRATS TO RETARDED PEOPLE, then apologizes to retarded people .

Click on through for the details...or not.
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Personal VTOL - Almost as good as a Rocket Pack

2010-02-01T22:54:00.000-05:00

I'll take one...for sure.

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Entertainment

2010-01-29T21:24:00.001-05:00

Why does Google News put all of it's stories about the drama that has usurped the lives of Tiger Woods and his family into the "Entertainment" category of it's website? The available categories for news include "World, ""US," "Sci/Tech,""Business,"" Sports," and "Health." Clearly, this tragedy doesn't fit in any of those categories either, although "Sports" may be the most appropriate since that is where most of the previous reportage about the golfing legend has appeared until recently.

But it definitely does not qualify as "Entertainment." It is definitely not entertaining.

Steal This Recipe

2010-01-28T19:32:00.002-05:00

Okay, here's the deal. This is why Mark Bittman is so cool. This recipe couldn't be easier, but it is an incredibly amazing rendering of brussel sprout deliciousness. Watch this short video and just do it. There is bacon involved. Watch it now.

Cut and paste this into your browser if necessary: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/28/dining/281mrex.html?ref=dining

Now, in the interest of full disclosure, I did add a couple of tablespoons of pine nuts. And, check it out, I didn't have any dates. But I did have figs and everyone knows that figs and dates are functional equivalents. They are basically the same thing, really, so if you don't have dried figs, used dried dates. And I added some chopped red bell pepper for color.

Do it. Don't fear the brussel sprouts. Embrace them.

(Yes, I stole that picture from the internet.)

New Audio Technology Stuff

2010-01-21T22:55:00.000-05:00

The National Association of Music Merchants (forever hereafter referred to as NAMM) winter show was last week. While, typically, it is the summer show that is the musical instrument manufacturing industry's biggest event, the tradeshow last week revealed some cool new products.

First, check out the Akai Synthstation. It is a powerful, feature packed synthesizer and music production application for the iPhone and iPod. This is crazy!

Also, there is the iPK25 keyboard controller. It's so new, you can't hardly find it on the internet, but go check out this really cool video on the Electronic Musician site.

And here is an interesting video on some new studio isolation products from Primacoustic, which is a part of the Radial Engineering family of companies and a real leader in acoustic design technology. I was really impressed with the simple and creative design of some of these little problem-solvers. Some clever, thoughtful new tools that will really work well in many studios and performance applicatons.

Linus explains Christmas

2009-12-20T21:30:00.000-05:00

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MERRY CHRISTMAS!

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Gates of Fire by Steven Pressfield

2009-12-19T09:04:00.001-05:00

Just finished Steven Pressfield's "Gates of Fire," a best-selling historical novel published in 1998, about the Battle of Thermopyle in 480 BC, the decisive battle in the Greco-Persian wars. It is a compelling story well-told of a fascinating period of history. An excellent read about an event that defines the word "epic".

It is, of course, the same storied event that was the subject of the popular movie "300" from 2006, by Frank Miller and Zack Snyder, although the book has a much different flavor, of course. I enjoyed the movie, as well, and I highly recommend the book. Here is a trailer for the movie:

300 Movie Trailer

This was the last of the books that I had been given last Christmas that I had not read.
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Bacon Oatmeal

2009-11-07T21:43:00.002-05:00

This is a recipe for 1 serving. It is easily doubled, tripled, quadrupled, etc.

Ingredients
2 slices of the best quality bacon
1/2 cup of Quaker Oats oatmeal; not the instant, the other kind.
1/2 cup of 2% milk
1 tbsp butter
1 heaping tbsp of Splenda brown sugar.

This recipe is very quick and easy, but the process is specific in order to get the best blend of flavors.

Fry the bacon to taste in the skillet, then remove to paper towels to cool and to drain excess grease. Place oatmeal and milk in a microwaveable bowl and zap it at full power for 1 minute. Remove and stir. Add the butter, return to the microwave and heat at full power for 1 minute. Remove and stir.

Stack the 2 bacon slices, holding them in one hand over the bowl. Using kitchen shears, snip the end of the cooked bacon, allowing the small bacon bits to crumble over the oatmeal. Sprinkle the Splenda brown sugar over the bacon bits and oatmeal.

Return to the microwave and cook at full power for an additional 30 seconds. Serve immediately, stirring to blend once more before eating.

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Nobel Peace Prize Rap by MC Crowbar

2009-10-18T10:38:00.000-04:00

"I made a sandwich - got a Peace Prize!"

Oh, yes. This is very funny to me.

h/t to Instapundit
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Nobel Peace Prize

2009-10-09T15:06:00.001-04:00

The Nobel Peace Prize has become increasingly ridiculous and irrelevant over the last couple of decades, even comedic at times, in a pathetic kind of way. Here is a list of the winners since 1980:

_ 2008: Martti Ahtisaari
_ 2007: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Al Gore
_ 2006: Muhammad Yunus, Grameen Bank
_ 2005: International Atomic Energy Agency, Mohamed ElBaradei
_ 2004: Wangari Maathai
_ 2003: Shirin Ebadi
_ 2002: Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter
_ 2001: United Nations, Kofi Annan
_ 2000: Kim Dae-jung
_ 1999: Medecins Sans Frontieres
_ 1998: John Hume, David Trimble
_ 1997: International Campaign to Ban Landmines, Jody Williams
_ 1996: Carlos Filipe Ximenes Belo, Jose Ramos-Horta
_ 1995: Joseph Rotblat, Pugwash Conf. on Science and World Affairs
_ 1994: Yasser Arafat, Shimon Peres, Yitzhak Rabin
_ 1993: Nelson Mandela, F.W. de Klerk
_ 1992: Rigoberta Menchu Tum
_ 1991: Aung San Suu Kyi
_ 1990: Mikhail Gorbachev
_ 1989: The 14th Dalai Lama
_ 1988: U.N. Peacekeeping Forces
_ 1987: Oscar Arias Sanchez
_ 1986: Elie Wiesel
_ 1985: International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War
_ 1984: Desmond Tutu
_ 1983: Lech Walesa
_ 1982: Alva Myrdal, Alfonso Garcia Robles
_ 1981: Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees
_ 1980: Adolfo Perez Esquivel

Some of these are absolutely worthy, to be sure. Others seem relatively obscure and unknown. But then there's Jimmy Carter, the Dalai Lama, Yasser Arafat, Mohamed El-Baradai, and...

...wait for it....

Al Gore.

And now this.

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Plinth

2009-09-27T21:05:00.005-04:00

It is not my intention to start "a word of the day" theme, nor is this space going to devolve into some kind of Jungian dream journal. However, I have had more vivid dreams lately than normal, several each night, and one of them was highly unusual. Two nights ago, I dreamed of the word "plinth". In my head, I saw it in print, I heard it spoken, and I myself said the word, repeating it. At the time I had no idea what it means and was only vaguely assured in my dream that it is, in fact, an actual word.

I trolled the internet for definitions and the one I like the best came from the ubiquitous Wikipedia:

In architecture, a plinth is the base or platform upon which a column, pedestal, statue, monument or structure rests.^[1] Gottfried Semper's The Four Elements of Architecture (1851) posited that the plinth, the hearth, the roof, and the wall make up all of architectural theory. According to Semper, the plinth exists to negotiate between a structure and the ground. Semper's theory has been very influential in the subsequent development of architecture.^[2]

I especially like the line, "exists to negotiate between a structure and the ground."

Why I dreamed this word, I have no idea. Maybe I should ask a Jungian. Here are a couple of more gratuitous plinth pics:

Here is a different kind of plinth...evidently it is also a kind of sophisticated, articulating medical chair:

And here's a short video about an art project involving a famous plinth and a bunch of English folk:

Has anybody else ever had a dream about a word? Next, I just need to start working it into as many conversations as possible.

Chappaquiddick

2009-08-29T11:23:00.003-04:00

I consider Mark Steyn's short essay on the legacy of Ted Kennedy essential to the present public discussion.

Call Your Name - Gateway Worship

2009-08-28T09:46:00.005-04:00

One of the best worship songs in the last couple of years. I was blessed to be in the congregation the night this was recorded.

Sing along...it will surprise you.

Gateway Church The singer/songwriter is Zach Neese. Here is a link to more of Gateway's worship music.

Ethnomusicological Stimulus - MBPYNHO

2009-08-26T16:30:00.003-04:00

It's a veritable gold mine of Music By People You've Never Heard Of.

Go here to preview and download FOR FREE a couple of dozen World Music Sampler albums from Amazon.com.

I heard about this from ChordStrike, an Amazon blog about all kinds of music.

Free is good.

Gastronomic Stimulus

2009-08-25T08:04:00.004-04:00

Here are some random food links that I like.

First, a sweepstakes to enter to win lots of groceries. Yes, there are coupons and recipes involved for those interested in such things. If you're hardcore and you like to make your own pasta noodles by hand, don't bother. The rest of you go check it out.

Secondly, here is a link to the arepa con queso recipe that I like. In fact, I'm cooking some now. This is a very simple, good recipe. You need the right kind of flour, though, or it won't be right. You need the PAN Harina Precocida de Maiz Blanco which is available from many Latino or specialty grocery stores. While you're there you can get the queso blanco, too.

Thirdly, and I've probably said this before, but it bears repeating. I am a big fan of Mark Bittman. His blog, his books, his online cooking video segments. Everything he does is aimed at helping you and me, the non-professional home cook learn to prepare better food with simple techniques and better ingredients. He gets it. He knows we aren't making foie gras...but he will show you how easy it is to make an excellent curry, a superior pasta sauce, what to do with a pound of ground lamb, or how to grill vegetables in the oven. It's real cooking for real people, but it's really GOOD cooking. If you want to eat better and still live your life, you will like Mark Bittman.

The Visitor

2009-08-24T08:03:00.010-04:00

Among the several good things about Netflix is how easy they have made it for us to watch movies for which we would not normally have either the time or, because of where we live, the access to conveniently see films that have limited release.

One such was the independent film, "The Visitor," written and directed by Thomas McCarthy, who also wrote and directed 2003's wonderful "The Station Agent." "The Station Agent" is really one of my favorite films, so artfully done. I had read good things about "The Visitor" and was pleased to find it in the mailbox.

One thing I had previously noticed was how "The Visitor" shares a similarity with the former movie in that reading the plot synopsis is completely misleading. Both feature simple, almost banal, stories that are, in fact, rich and deep, and are brilliantly and beautifully told.

Although "The Visitor" boldly violates one of my few but firm rules about what constitutes a "good" movie, I still must recommend it most highly. It centers on the the unlikely relationship that emerges among an interesting quartet of characters. The only recognizable actor is the lead, Richard Jenkins, and he is not a movie star. He's one of those guys you see 3-5 times a year in various minor roles and say, "Oh, yeah...that guy." In this movie, his work is very, very good as the tightly wound (and unwinding) professor Walter Vale.

Although each of the actors is strong, Hiam Abbas, an accomplished Palestinian actress from Israel, as Mouna Khalil, is especially striking in her role. Her performance is captivating, nuanced, complex, and powerful.

It is so seldom that a film can really successfully unpack a story as well, or develop characters as deeply as a book does, but that is what McCarthy does with "The Visitor." It is a difficult story, but one well worth telling. Here is a link to the trailer - check it out.

Rent this movie.

Rebuilding the Temple in Jerusalem

2009-08-16T21:25:00.004-04:00

"The request reads: "Children wanted for Future Temple service. Ultra-orthodox Jewish sect is searching for parents willing to hand over newborn sons to be raised in isolation and purity in preparation for the rebuilding of the biblical temple in Jerusalem. Only members of the Jewish priestly caste, the Kohanim need apply..."

Words from an ancient scroll disovered in a recent archeological dig? Or perhaps an excerpt from a Hollywood screenplay for some biblical epic? Actually, those words appeared in the contemporary Israeli newspaper, Haaretz."

Read the whole thing. The last couple of paragraphs tell why this is important.

Believe it.

Scrapings

2009-08-09T22:04:00.016-04:00

Hey, remember blogging? Way back in like 2008 when everybody would write on their blogs and stuff, sharing their innermost thoughts, posting recipes, pictures of puppies and kittens, and all about stuff their kids were doing and things like that? Yeah, those were the days.

Well as long as I'm here, I'm going to do a brain dump.

*****

I was surprised at the visceral, emotional reaction I had today when I read this story about how the idiot dictator of Venezuela, Hugo Chavez, is talking trash about Colombia. My first thought was, "Hey, I know those people, you butthead. Leave them alone!" Those are my friends he's threatening and I don't like it one bit.

*****

I think the recent proliferation of vampire fiction, including all of it's cinematic variants, is just plain weird. I'm definitely not into it, mostly because it's ridiculously popular and because I really don't have the time for that kind of reading. But, still, I think it is a peculiar sub-genre. Okay, I confess...I did enjoy the early years of Joss Whedon's Buffy series, especially when it was in syndication and was broadcast every morning during coffee time. I also think 1987's "The Lost Boys" is a kind of modern classic, but most of the rest of it is just not that interesting to me. Somewhere, though, I bet there are several hundred graduate students in English Literature analyzing this phenomenon and cranking out the definitive theses. I don't want to read those, either.

*****

I recently saw the Clint Eastwood movie, "Gran Torino," and liked it very much, charmed even by it's imperfections. It really is one of the best movies I've seen in the last year. I also finally saw the award-winning "There Will Be Blood," starring Daniel Day Lewis. What an absolute waste of time that movie is. Hated it.

*****

"Sometimes people may be so appalled, so offended by what you have to say that they don't stick around long enough to hear your explanation, much less your apology."

I dreamed this statement, in this morning's pre-dawn slumber. There was a dramatic context, of course, but I barely remember it. The statement, though, I remembered loud and clear upon awakening

*****

It is absurd, but the Indiana Symphony Orchestra is heavily promoting on TV their upcoming concert featuring the greatest hits of Queen. Please. What is this going to accomplish, really? They are going to butcher this music while simultaneously selling their artistic soul for a little coin. What a complete waste of time, money, talent, and effort. And, no, I don't have to hear it first to justify my opinion any more than it is necessary for me to drive off a cliff in order to understand how terrible it would be to die in a fiery crash.

Go Bogota 09! - Preparations

2009-07-12T08:27:00.003-04:00

Leaving for Bogota in 2 Days!

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Mission Trip to Bogota

2009-07-11T09:36:00.002-04:00

On Monday we leave for a short-term missions trip to Bogota, Colombia with a team of 12 people from our church. We have a sister church there, the North Church, and will be working in a variety of jobs, including the continuation of some remodeling at the Wesleyan Bible Institute, an important minisitry training center. The Bogota North Church is the largest Wesleyan church in the world, actually, and it will be a very interesting and exciting trip.

Nancy will be taking and publishing photos, and I will be blogging our trip here, at the website of our team leader, Steve Mathews.

We are praying for a safe and productive trip, of course, but even more so we are hoping and anticipating that we will see God at work in new, transformative ways, in us, our team, and in the lives of our Colombian hosts.

Parenthood

2009-07-11T09:27:00.005-04:00

A post full of insight and wisdom from Kem Meyer on parenthood...what it is, what it isn't, and what it means.

Body Mass Index = Junk Science

2009-07-06T12:46:00.008-04:00

In the news last week, among other things, was the new report from the Trust For America's Health describing how America continues to grow fatter, with nearly 2/3 of the states showing adult obesity levels of 25% or more.

Here's a link to an interesting (and humorous) NPR story on why the Body Mass Index (BMI), which is a significant component in this new study, is a completely bogus and useless tool to judge whether or not you truly are as lardamous as you think you are. Now, I'm not saying that it wouldn't hurt for you to drop 5 lbs. But I am saying that it is stupid for us to allow the politicians and bureaucrats to use bad science to push through more useless and expensive government regulation and legislative control.

You can read the story, or click on the "LISTEN NOW" button in the article to listen to it if you need both hands free to finish off that last piece of leftover blueberry pie from Saturday's July 4th cookout.

In other health news, here is a happy story telling how (5) cups of coffee a day can possibly stave off the symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease.

Senator Boxer's Ego is bigger than the state of California.

2009-06-18T09:32:00.005-04:00

California Senator Barbara Boxer, in typical fine form:

As opposed to Brigadier General Michael Walsh, the commanding general of the US Army Corps of Engineers, who, you know, more or less just had his rank given to him for charm and good looks.

This woman's unfettered hubris is appalling. Again. General Walsh deserves another medal for his calm, accommodating reserve in the face of such overweening arrogance.

Yes, ma'am.

Ethiopian Mathematics

2009-06-14T14:00:00.001-04:00

For a couple of reasons, I've been thinking about mathematics lately.

JP had a homework assignment from his Finite Mathematics class (IU/East) this past week that was really interesting. His assignment was to create an instructional video, a visual tutorial for the solving of a complicated problem incorporating ratios, matrices, chemicals, fertilizer, and marketing.

First, I marveled at the ease with which that he could solve such a tricky problem. My family's DNA is largely minus this particular gene. But my son is not only good at it, he also takes a measure of enjoyment from it's successful pursuit. The class itself is interesting in that it's emphasis is on real-world applications, not merely theoretical abstractions. Not that there is anything intrinsically wrong with theoretical abstractions, per se.

Secondly, even though he thought the whole thing was no big deal, JP was very creative in the way he assembled his tutorial video, using markers, Sharpies, digital camera, and a confident, engaging patois that made it all surprisingly interesting. No, really. His teacher is planning to use this video, and the others created by JP's classmates as the basis for a website that student's can use to learn how to solve different types of math problems. Personally, the whole thing struck me as yet another remarkable example of how technology has transformed the way we learn and communicate. However, as recently as 10 years ago, the capability of producing this kind of thing on the dining room table did not practically exist within the reach of most people. Twenty years ago, we really didn't even have the vocabulary to discuss or understand the concept.

Here is another short math video, produced by the BBC, that I found fascinating, too. It is about the strange connections between an ancient mathematical practice still in use today by Ethiopian merchants and it's connection to modern computer calculation algorithms. Check it out.

Personally, I find it a compelling argument for intelligent design and strong evidence of the creative mind of God. But I digress...

The Loaded Chicken

2009-06-05T22:47:00.008-04:00

By popular demand, here is what a Loaded Chicken looks like.

It's not natural.

Great picture by Nancy.

---

Update: Food & Think, the cool Smithsonian blog about food, did a followup piece on the photographer who authored the original "What's in Your Fridge" project.

What's In Your Fridge?

2009-05-22T15:55:00.002-04:00

I found Good Magazine's pictorial essay of the contents of people's refrigerators fascinating. I'm not sure why, except that it is one of those slice of life exercises that the Internets seem to be good for.

The one with the rattlesnake was pretty interesting.

Here's what's in my fridge ------------------>

Obviously my snapshot is vastly inferior to the ones in the essay. And, for the sake of authenticity and personal integrity, I didn't pose any of my foodstuffs. This is them in their natural, candid state, caught unawares before the intruding lens.

The only thing that I can see here that may merit some explanation is the thing on the top shelf next to the egg carton. That is a chicken made out of wire. It's function, allegedly, is to store the eggs. My wife always tries to get me to "load the chicken," but I refuse, on philosophical grounds.

Sometimes a guy just has to put his foot down. A man needs to know where to draw the line - what battles are worth fighting and stuff like that.

h/t Mark Bittman

Skynet Wins - Goodbye Sarah Conner

2009-05-18T13:02:00.006-04:00

I'm not big on TV blogging, but I did just find out that one of the few shows that I enjoyed has been cancelled. Ain't that the way? Terminator: The Sarah Conner Chronicles was really a good action series.

And now, with no one to protect us, we are all doomed to destruction and enslavery at the hands of our evil robot overlords from the future. Thanks alot, Fox.

Oh, but they did renew Dollhouse. Hate that show. I'm a fan of creator/producer Joss Whedon, but that show is stupid. Not gonna watch it. Not even gonna link to it.

Rap Chop featuring Vince (Steve Porter Remix) - MBPYNHO

2009-05-12T23:59:00.001-04:00

This edition of Music By People You've Never Heard Of features a healthy dose of laugh-out-loud hilarity as well as a slamming remix track by Steve Porter. This is crazy, but it is also wildly creative and very well done. I love what happens at about 2:58, with the guest vocal.

This makes me want to stay up late and buy crazy plastic stuff on TV in the middle of the night.

Steamed Artichokes - Learn how to do it.

2009-05-11T12:00:00.003-04:00

Bogota, Columbia - Missions Trip

2009-05-08T09:18:00.011-04:00

In July, Nancy and I are going to Bogota, Columbia on a week-long short-term missions trip with a group from our church. We have a sister church there, and we hope to be involved in remodeling and equipping the school there. Our church sponsors and organizes several such trips each year, some domestic, some international and we are looking forward to it with increasing anticipation for a number of reasons.

While our church is by no means huge, here in our area we happen to be one of the larger congregations and we have people who come not only from nearby Richmond, but from any of a couple of dozen small rural communities within a 60-70 mile radius, stretching into nearby eastern Ohio. Our team of approximately a dozen is made up of some people with whom we already enjoy close friendships as well as some people that we are only just now meeting and getting to know for the first time, which I really like. There is an especially interesting and highly diverse mix of ages, personalities, experience, and areas of personal skill.

Nancy and I like to travel and we are both excited about seeing a new place, experiencing a new culture, and meeting new people. I am brushing up on my Spanish, which was always merely functional, at best, and is now more marginal than ever, having lived in Indiana for the last 10 years.

It has been fun to research and learn about Colombia, too. I was astonished to learn that the Bogota metro area has over 8 million people, which puts it just under the size of Chicago and appreciably larger than Washington, D.C.

It will really be interesting to see and hear, first hand, what life is like there. In addition to participating in the work projects, I am anxious to try the local cuisine, see some of the city, and just soak up the local culture. My hope and expectation is that we'll meet new friends, learn new things, and come away with a broader perspective on life and faith. My compadre and worship leader extraordinaire, Steve Mathews, is leading our group, so we are hoping, too, that there will be some good musical interaction, too.

Cooking with Christopher Walken

2009-05-06T14:37:00.001-04:00

Jordan Lee Pike - MBPYNHO

2009-04-24T22:09:00.007-04:00

Yeah, I know you've probably never heard of him, but the kid's got it.
Take a listen:

http://www.myspace.com/jordanleepike

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Scallops & Asparagus

2009-04-24T11:24:00.003-04:00

I am absolutely going to try this recipe, if only for the incredible color. But it sounds like it will taste amazing, too. Finding decent scallops in rural Indiana may be the tricky part. But we've got your asparagus.

Postcards from Hell

2009-04-22T21:15:00.006-04:00

I get them. I am certain you do too. If you are like me, most of the time you either ignore where they come from or you minimize their significance. Occasionally, you may not even realize who sent you that Postcard, but most of the time you know.

I need to quit reading the Postcards from Hell. Sometimes I get several a day. How did That Guy get my address, anyway? Oh, yeah, now I remember. I gave it to him and he's always had it. And he sends me Postcards even though I've asked to be taken off of his mailing list. Are you on his mailing list? I bet you are.

Postcards from Hell are full of lies and bad news. Mostly just lies, and mostly lies about The News. Because The News is not really bad. The News is Good.

I need to quit reading the Postcards from Hell. Otherwise, how can a man like me remain in the light?

Trent over at Morphine Life has some excellent things to say about this, too, and a great song to share by the Wood Brothers. Check it out.

Hell, Norway
Is that train about to leave the station?
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CHINESE TRANSLATION by M. Ward

2009-04-14T18:58:00.004-04:00

I know it's a couple of years old, but here it is anyway, my new favorite song for the next day or so:

Here's an entertaining live version from the David Letterman Show:

Did you check out that old funky desktop mic he was singing through? Don't you just love the chorus to this song? Don't you like it when I ask rhetorical questions as though you were standing right here? No?

Thanks, again, Sharon.

Nob Sugino - Lap Steel Artist - MBPYNHO

2009-03-13T02:06:00.005-04:00

A few months back, around my birthday, I think, I purchased an album sound unheard (and sight unseen) by a Japanese lap steel guitarist named Nob Sugino. I had read his name somewhere and thought it might be interesting to hear how he played one of my favorite instruments. The album was "Wake", and you can ge it here.

The album is an eclectic and surprising blend of sounds, textures, and styles. I like it a lot. Sugino's approach to the instrument is aggressive and confident, but also nuanced and sensitive. It is a fascinating listen. I visited his website and learned more about his equipment and technique, signing up to receive updates as they became available.

Well, this morning, I received a nice personal email from Sugino, inviting me to check out three videos of new performances that he recently uploaded to YouTube. These are all really well done. Great performances on three different, unique instruments.

And check it out! He is using the Boss RC-20XL Looper Pedal! The same one that I've been playing with for the last couple of months and that I've written about here repeatedly.

Jesus Stands Corrected

2009-03-04T08:28:00.005-05:00

- excerpt:

I've been corrected many times by Christians -- after reading (on-air) something Jesus actually said. They don't like it. I'm serious. "You know, all the commandments can be summed up with love the Lord your God with all your heart, and mind, and soul, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus said that, and..."

Ringing phones. "Hello?"

"You forgot one: Evangelize."

Jesus stands corrected.

From Brant Hansen. Read the whole thing.

U2's "With or Without You" by Neanderpaul - MBPYNHO

2009-02-20T16:45:00.006-05:00

In this broadcast of Music By People You've Never Heard Of, I bring you this inspired and inspiring home-brewed version of the famous U2 anthem as performed by Neanderpaul. I'll tell you up front, this is not a great recording, even by the standards of YouTube. It won't matter, just check it out.

I know nothing about this guy, and I found him as I was searching for videos of artists using the Boss RC-20XL Loop Station. For those of you not hip to what the Loop Station is all about, Neanderpaul is an able demonstrator of it's considerable creative possibilities. He plays, sings, and records every sound you hear in this video in real time....this is a completely live performance.

There are a lot of folks using this kind of fun tool nowadays, and I've written about it before. In Neanderpaul's videos, though, I was especially struck by his unpretensious demeanor and his passionate approach to every performance, whether it is a cover tune like this one or an original. You get the sense that it doesn't matter who or even if anyone is listening. There is an implicit devotion to honesty, economy, and simplicity that is admirable. His commitment to the music really shines through.

I don't know the guy, but he's an artist, and I like what he's got going on. It's not about perfection, it's about passion.

Michelangelo's Pieta

2009-02-16T08:49:00.002-05:00

A passing reference in a book I am reading reminded me today of one of the most arresting works of art that I have ever seen, Michelangelo's Pieta. We saw it last April while in Italy, celebrating our 25th anniversary.

I have seen a lot of famous art in my life, and one of the blessings of our marriage is that Nancy and I both enjoy art museums and art history, as well as creating our own art.

Yet, nothing I had ever previously seen or read or thought I knew about Michelangelo and his legendary body of work prepared me for the exceeding beauty, the grandeur, the grace, and the power of this particular statue.

Located in St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, the heart of the Roman Catholic Church, this statue of Jesus' battered and lifeless body, cradled in the arms of his mother, Mary, simply must be seen to be appreciated. It is one of the few works that commands one's complete rapt attention when in it's presence. This is, of course, due in part to the solemnity of the subject and also to the majesty of its representation, hewn from stone and meticulously polished by the hand of a supremely gifted artisan. Far more than a mere religious icon, which, in Rome, number in the millions and towards which I am relatively inurred, I was taken aback by the unexpected wave of emotion and introspection that this image inspired.

Completed by Michelangelo in 1499, there are several interesting things about this statue's design. It has been noted that some of the body proportions of the two figures are not "right, " strictly speaking, due to the inherent difficulty of portraying a fully grown man splayed limply across the lap of a woman. Much like a painter, the artist seemed to understand that adjustments needed to be made so that , from the perspective of the viewer some distance away, the image would appear perfectly normal and natural. The overall shape of the sculpture is pyramidic, with the thick folds of Mary's clothing largely creating the necessary mass to balance the image and support it's overall effect.

While the subject of the Savior's mother in grief at the death of her Son was by no means unique, Michelangelo's depiction of Mary differed significantly from those that had come before. The image of Mary is clearly that of the serene, young, teenage virgin mother, not the grief-stricken, mature, 45-ish woman that she certainly was at the time of Jesus' crucifixion. There are a number of theoretical explanations for this, but the one I find the most compelling posits that Michelangelo is intentionally bridging Christ's birth to His death in this single image. The young virgin mother sees in her arms the precious little newborn baby whose selfless life will eventually lead Him to the fulfillment of prophecy at Golgotha. At the same time, we who view this scene are actually seeing the grim future, which is at once the greatest of victories, draped in sorrow and loss.

This statue has an interesting history, too, a summary of which can be read here.

Finally, if you have never travelled abroad or are intimidated by the idea or cost of going to a faraway country, I encourage you to reconsider. It is far easier and much less expensive than most people think and the rewards are incalculable. It will change forever the way you look at the world.

Btw, the top pic is mine. The bottom one is shamelesly purloined from Wikipedia.
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Leadership

2009-02-13T21:51:00.005-05:00

"NOT ONE MEMBER HAS READ THIS BILL!"

Do you think that our nation's leaders have any idea in what low regard they are beheld by those they govern?

UPDATE: The Democrats finally made the bill's language available around 11 p.m. Thursday, approximately 10 hours before members meet Friday to consider the bill and 38 hours short of the time promised Americans to review the bill.

That our leaders cheat on their taxes, lie with impunity, and twist both the letter and spirit of the law for the sake of personal power and material gain should not surprise us.

That we allow it is the greater crime. And yet, most of them will, I daresay, be reelected.

Yeah...change we can believe in.

Action Figure Museum

2009-02-11T11:31:00.004-05:00

I have been driving through Paul's Valley, Oklahoma for years on our semi-annual trips back and forth from Texas. This is totally worth stopping for.

If you missed the Wired mag article and pics, check it out here.

Peanut Butter and Cabbage Sandwich

2009-02-05T11:38:00.003-05:00

This is an exhilarating post by chef and author Michael Ruhlman. Check out this picture, taken by his wife (a superb photographer), then go read about it.

I want one now.

Say it out loud. It's not magic...

2009-01-27T17:30:00.003-05:00

...but it is supernatural.

I have found this to be true.

Economic Prognostication

2009-01-24T09:43:00.008-05:00

It is a very rare day that I read, much less rebroadcast, financial articles, but
this one
from CNN Money is particularly timely, understandable, interesting, and.....concise.

h/t microlesia

"The Last Lincolns" and Books I Haven't Read Yet.

2009-01-21T10:16:00.005-05:00

As I mentioned a short time ago, I need a new category tag entitled "Books I Haven't Read Yet," so that I can offer unqualified recommendations and initiate uninformed discussion and opinions on books that look interesting but which I may or may not actually get around to reading.

Here is one such book, entitled "The Last Lincolns: The Rise and Fall of a Great American Family," by Charles Lachman.

Here is a blurb from the publisher:

Most books about Abraham Lincoln end on April 14, 1865, the day he was assassinated at Ford's Theatre. But that historic event takes place near the beginning of The Last Lincolns, a singular title in the vast output of Lincolnia and one of the most unusual books ever written on the sixteenth president and his family. Going far beyond that fateful day into uncharted territory, it's a gripping page turner written by a TV producer with proven storytelling skills. This absorbing American tragedy tells the largely unknown story of the acrimony that consumed the Lincolns in the months and years that followed the president's murder. This was not a family that came together in mourning and mutual sadness; instead, they fell out over the anguished mental condition of the widowed Mary. In 1875, Robert — the handsome but resentful eldest Lincoln child — engineered her arrest and forcible commitment to an insane asylum. In each succeeding generation, the Lincolns' misfortunes multiplied, as a litany of alcohol abuse, squandered fortunes, burned family papers, and outright dissipation led to the downfall of this once-great family.

Charles Lachman traces the story right up to the last generation of Lincoln descendants: great-grandson Bob Lincoln Beckwith, his estranged wife, Annemarie, and her son, Timothy Lincoln Beckwith. Bob, who was according to all medical evidence sterile, believes the son who bears the Lincoln name was the product of an adulterous affair. Annemarie, however, wanted the boy to be a "Lincoln," putting the child in line for a vast inheritance. There's even evidence — uncovered by Lachman for the first time — that a scheme to obtain possession of the Lincoln fortune was orchestrated by Bob Beckwith's chauffeur, who may have been the notorious outlaw and skyjacker, D.B. Cooper.

Published in advance of Abraham Lincoln's 200th birthday in February 2009, The Last Lincolns provides an unforgettable glimpse into the personal legacy left by the man who could unite a nation…but not his own family.

George Bush saved 10 million lives

2009-01-17T11:28:00.005-05:00

Yes, George Bush saved 10 millions lives.

DOOT-DOOT by Freur - MBPYNHO

2009-01-17T09:50:00.003-05:00

From the Music By People You Never Heard Of wholly owned subsidiary of PikeSpeak, here is "Doot-Doot" by Freur, circa 1983.

Other than "doot doot", most of the lyrics are completely unintelligible. It doesn't matter, though, there is much to love about this song/video and I suspect that deep, thoughtful lyrics would probably just get in the way. Sure the haircuts and clothes look funny, but so what?

Things I like about this include the understated "slow-burn" groove, the synchronized echoey vocal sounds and the complex texture created by layering multiple simple parts.

My favorite section starts about 2:32 when the drummer comes in, attacking that classic Simmons drumkit with such drama. That is also where the synth strings come to the fore....and I really love the rich, warm sound of 80's analog strings.

h/t Chordstrike

Winners

2009-01-15T16:00:00.002-05:00

Just go read this story.

Do it. Go. NOW.

h/t AIM & Kamp Krusty

Comical. Or not?

2009-01-14T11:23:00.007-05:00

Personally, I was always a little suspicious of Aquaman.

This is just darn silly, in my opinion. But Stan Lee is a man who knows a business opportunity when he sees it, that is for sure. I, too, wait with baited breath, to see what super-power this "hero" will reveal.

The middle distance

2009-01-13T14:17:00.004-05:00

I just noticed that on my blog masthead, I have the same expression as Miles Davis does on the "In A Silent Way" album cover. Except I'm all neon-y and he's a famous jazz trumpeter noted for his extraordinary creativity and crotchety demeanor.

The importance of context

2009-01-12T22:40:00.005-05:00

"...I got rid of the body. I kept the neck, but I had to trash the body..."

This was what I was saying to my wife in a matter-of-fact voice just as the window opened in the Starbucks drive through. I turned to see an earnest, wide-eyed young man with a startled expression on his face, reaching out to me with a Grande Americano (plus half-and-half) in each hand.

I received the beverages, smiling broadly as I handed him the payment.

I am certain he wondered what I was talking about.

Blonde Joke

2009-01-08T11:21:00.002-05:00

A blonde is watching the news with her husband when the newscaster says, 'Two Brazilian men died today in a skydiving accident.'

The blonde starts crying to her husband, sobbing 'That's horrible! So many men dying like that.'

Confused, he says, 'Yes dear, it is sad, but they were skydiving, and there is always that risk involved.'

After a few minutes, the blonde, still sobbing, says, 'How many is a Brazilian?'

A Gaza Stripped of Hamas?

2009-01-06T09:21:00.003-05:00

Here is an excellent summary on the politics swirling around the current conflagration between Israel and the Hamas terrorists.

Do you believe that we'll be reunited with our loved ones when we get to heaven?

2009-01-01T12:48:00.007-05:00

Thanks to Blog.Worship.com for pointing to this compelling Q&A from ChristianPost.com:

Q: Do you believe that we'll be reunited with our loved ones when we get to heaven? I deeply hope we will be, but with all the millions and millions of people up there, how will we ever find them? Maybe I shouldn't worry about this but I do. - Mrs. R.E.

A: Yes, I firmly believe we will be reunited with those who have died in Christ and entered heaven before us. I often recall King David's words after the death of his infant son: "I will go to him, but he will not return to me" (2 Samuel 12:23). This truth has become even more precious to me since the death of my dear wife, Ruth, a year and a half ago.

And, yes, there will be a vast number of people in heaven, for every person through the ages who has trusted Christ for their salvation will be there. The Bible says that because of Christ's death for us, heaven will be filled with "a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb (Christ)" (Revelation 7:9).

But you shouldn't worry about getting lost, or never finding your loved ones in heaven - not at all. If God brought you together on this earth - out of all the billions of people who live here now - will He be able to bring you together in heaven? Of course.

Never forget: Heaven is a place of supreme joy - and one of its joys will be our reunion with our loved ones. But heaven's greatest joy will be our reunion with Christ, our Savior and Lord. Is your hope and trust in Him?

The person that answered this question is Billy Graham.

"Coldplay rips off Joe Satriani?" The fur is gonna fly....

2008-12-09T19:00:00.006-05:00

The kids over at ChordStrike have been on a roll lately and you should check them out for their ideas and recommendations for music that is often off the beaten path.

Here, though, is their take on the recent lawsuit brought by guitar-samurai Joe Satrian i against the pop superstars Coldplay in which it seems their huge hit, Viva La Vida may have borrowed too generously from one of Joe's instrumental tunes off of a 2004 album.

You definitely want to check out the YouTube video that they have showing the two songs overlaid. It's pretty incredible. I am usually pretty skeptical about these kinds of claims, because pop/rock music is so pervasively inbred anyway these days. But this time...this time it really sounds eerily close and I'm thinking ol' Satch may have an axe to grind with the youngsters.

One thing I know for sure, and this video proves...Coldplay really could be the best band in the world if they got Joe Satriani to play guitar.

Followup: Coldplay says, "Oh, no we din't!"

What's So Great About Christianity?

2008-12-09T08:58:00.003-05:00

Maybe I should start a category called "Books I Haven't Read Yet."

From the recently resurrected Anti-Itch Meditation, there is a pointer to this interview in Salvo Magazine with author Dinesh D'Souza. If, like me, you've heard that name on the TV news, but couldn't quite place him, it turns out he is a card-carrying renaissance man with multiple areas of high expertise. He has written a new book of Christian apologetics called "What's So Great About Christianity?," and has been spending the last year or so publicly debating noted atheists Christopher Hitchens and Richard Dawkins. I have not yet read the book, but if this interview is any indication, it would seem he is likely handing them their secular humanist heads on a platter.

Here's one of the best, most surprising bits from the interview, in response to the widely held and oft reported assertion that Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world:

"That's actually not true. Islam is indeed growing, but primarily through reproduction. Muslims have big families, which translates into an increase in their numbers. But Christianity is growing both by reproduction and by conversions. The rate of Christian conversions in places such as Africa and Asia is really startling. Even the U.S., which is in some respects more modern, affluent, and technological than any other nation in the world, has also remained perhaps the most religious country in the West."

and

"The truth is, however, that if you go to South America, you will find a huge number of conversions to Protestant Christianity. If you go to Korea, you will find Christian churches with 100,000 members. If you go to China, you will find 100 million Christians. And if you go to Africa, you'll find that countries whose populations were only five percent Christian 100 years ago are now 50 percent Christian. These trends have not gone unnoticed by historians, who are startled by them and have attempted to explain them away, and they are the empirical basis for my claim that God is doing very well in this world."

Interesting.

Presents

2008-12-04T22:26:00.007-05:00

For my birthday, I received the most wonderful toys:

A Radial Engineering Trimode Distortion Pedal

A Yodeling Pickle

Motorola Z6TV Cellphone

Juggling balls

Albums by:

Buddy Miller

David Bowie

David Byrne & Brian Eno

Carlos Santana

A new crockpot!

Not to mention an excellent black hoodie, a sweatshirt, and some generous monetary gifts.

Plus, I was treated to a meal at the best restaurant in Richmond, Ghyslain, with my wife, mom, and Grandma. Chef Ghyslain is an international award-winning chocolatier and restauranteur from Canada. Outstanding!

I missed my son not being there, but he'll be home from IU/Bloomington soon.

Kiwi Bacon

2008-12-02T08:44:00.002-05:00

This is funny.

h/t Bacon Unwrapped

"Jesus' Blood Never Failed Me Yet..."

2008-11-26T10:54:00.005-05:00

Via the ArtsJournal.com, here is an interesting piece from The Guardian examines why pop songs are so short. Apart from the fact that in many cases it is simply our own good sense or the the Lord's sweet mercy that delivers us from the worst of what passes for pop music, this article takes a fresh look at typical examples and historical reasons, as well as notable exceptions.

In this latter category, he describes the background of and offers a link to an emotionally arresting recording by Gavin Bryars, entitled "Jesus' Blood Never Failed Me Yet."

The Worst Day of My Life...

2008-11-25T13:32:00.003-05:00

You know, perspective is everything. Especially at this time of year it's important for us to be thankful for what we have and to say a little prayer for those whose lives are so much less fortunate.

A special thanks to my son, JP, for pointing me towards this timely reminder, on this, his 22nd birthday, no less.

Arlen Roth: Slide Guitar Lesson

2008-11-21T12:31:00.004-05:00

Here's another short video lesson in beginning slide guitar technique, this time by Arlen Roth. Not only does he give great insight in the "how-to", he delivers some easy, great sounding basic licks. He is playing a Gibson SG, which is the model preferred by Derek Trucks, too.

Slide guitar is a lot of fun, but like he says, it's totally different than playing regular guitar.

10,000 Hours, more or less

2008-11-18T08:06:00.006-05:00

"In the early 90s, the psychologist K Anders Ericsson and two colleagues set up shop at Berlin's elite Academy of Music. With the help of the academy's professors, they divided the school's violinists into three groups. The first group were the stars, the students with the potential to become world-class soloists. The second were those judged to be merely "good". The third were students who were unlikely ever to play professionally, and intended to be music teachers in the school system. All the violinists were then asked the same question. Over the course of your career, ever since you first picked up the violin, how many hours have you practised?

Everyone, from all three groups, started playing at roughly the same time - around the age of five. In those first few years, everyone practised roughly the same amount - about two or three hours a week. But around the age of eight real differences started to emerge. The students who would end up as the best in their class began to practise more than everyone else: six hours a week by age nine, eight by age 12, 16 a week by age 14, and up and up, until by the age of 20 they were practising well over 30 hours a week. By the age of 20, the elite performers had all totalled 10,000 hours of practice over the course of their lives. The merely good students had totalled, by contrast, 8,000 hours, and the future music teachers just over 4,000 hours.

The curious thing about Ericsson's study is that he and his colleagues couldn't find any "naturals" - musicians who could float effortlessly to the top while practising a fraction of the time that their peers did. Nor could they find "grinds", people who worked harder than everyone else and yet just didn't have what it takes to break into the top ranks. Their research suggested that once you have enough ability to get into a top music school, the thing that distinguishes one performer from another is how hard he or she works. That's it. What's more, the people at the very top don't just work much harder than everyone else. They work much, much harder."

Excerpted from from Malcolm Gladwell's new book, Outliers: The Story of Success, reprinted from The Guardian. A fascinating read, this excerpt also discusses hockey champions, Bill Gates' career, and Mozart's childhood.

Everyone Can Go

2008-11-15T09:28:00.006-05:00

This is an Associated Press photo from a couple of weeks ago showing religious pilgrims returning from a...uhm, pilgrimage to their home in Multan, Pakistan.

Click to enlarge.

What are YOU doing here?!?!

2008-11-14T15:54:00.006-05:00

This cracked me up bigtime:

From David Hayward, at nakedpastor.com.

Roasted Pears with Cheddar Crumble

2008-11-13T13:39:00.009-05:00

Frankly, I'm getting annoyed at all of my favorite food websites because all they want to talk about is Thanksgiving dinner. I like Thanksgiving dinner as much as the next guy but, for me, from a cooking standpoint, it's just not that interesting. I know it's all about the turkey recipe, the stuffing, the cranberry something-or-other, blah, blah, BLAH! I'm beginning to fear it will be January before it gets creative and fun to read about cooking again.

That said, Mark Bittman, one of my favorite chef/authors, was on The Today Show this morning with some interesting, very simple soup recipes. Here's the link. And I don't think he even mentioned the word "turkey" one time.

Sorry, I didn't really mean to go all anti-Thanksgiving there. To make up for it, here is an excellent, healthy dessert recipe that I freely adapted from one of those recipe cards that they give away free in the produce section of the grocery. You just never know where you'll find an inspiring idea. Nancy requested it for this morning's breakfast, and it worked great. It is one of those dishes that looks fancy, but it is really incredibly easy.

Roasted Pears with Cheddar Crumble

2 ripe pears, halved, cored and seeded
2 tbsp. butter, approx.
1/4 cup of good cheddar cheese, grated
2 tbsp. granola
2 tbsp. Splenda brown sugar

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Coat small baking dish with cooking spray. Place pears cut-side up in dish. Cover with butter, cover, and bake for 30 minutes.

Shortly before pears finish cooking, combine grated cheese and granola in small bowl.

Remove pears from oven, Uncover and spoon cheese and granola mix into and on top of pears. Sprinkle with brown sugar. Return to oven and bake for 10 minutes more.

Serve in bowls, pouring extra syrup over pears. Serves 2.