Perhaps this will mark the turning point in the current spate of cultural McCarthyism raging out of Washington: FCC commissioner Michael Copps is now turning his attention to soap operas.
Ooh. You can trash a lot of programming, and fans of those shows won't care. "ER" and "NYPD Blue" viewers shrugged, for example, when their favorite shows censored themselves in response to the post-2/1 environment.
Soap fans, though, are a vicious bunch. You start trying to change the sudser arena, and you'll incur the wrath of some angry, angry fans. If they're not careful, the FCC will wind up like Sen. McCarthy after he went after the Army.
I can see it now. Susan Lucci at a future Congressional hearing: "Chairman Powell, have you no sense of decency?"
Wednesday, March 31, 2004
Tuesday, March 30, 2004
Not So Fast, Liz...
Who's fact checking Liz Smith's column these days? They missed a doozy in Tuesday's paper.
Smith's Tuesday column -- including, even more embarrassingly, the truncated version found in the L.A. Times -- featured this review of last week's LA.com launch party:
SPEAKING OF things L.A., there was a recent event that very much mixed the old and new of Hollywood culture. A young woman named Lynda Keeler runs LA.com, which is said to be the most fabulous online site about all things Los Angeles.
The party to launch the site was held at Perino's, at 4101 Wilshire Blvd. This was one of the lush, glamorous star-spotting eateries during Hollywood's golden age. (Faye Dunaway as Joan Crawford had a great scene in "Mommie Dearest" barking "Perino's is my place!")
Well, that Internet party was the last gasp for Perino's. The very next day, bulldozers flattened the restaurant.
I guess LA.com can cross Perino's off its list of places to go in Hollywood.
One problem: Perino's still lives (for now)! As a matter of fact, I drove by it tonight.
And bulldozers flattening the restaurant would sure be news to the Collage Dance Theatre, which is staging the performance "A Hunger Artist" at Perino's this weekend.
(And I think we can be safe in assuming that LA.com doesn't need to cross Perino's off any list -- the restaurant has been closed, except for private parties and filming, for over a decade.)
Check out cool shots of Perino's here, and learn about the unfortunate plan to replace the building with apartments here.
Also, L.A. Observed talks about the impending death of Perino's -- and its one last hurrah, the Collage Dance Theatre event -- here, and points to this past Sunday's L.A. Times "Here and Now" column devoted to the history of Perino's restaurant.
Smith's Tuesday column -- including, even more embarrassingly, the truncated version found in the L.A. Times -- featured this review of last week's LA.com launch party:
SPEAKING OF things L.A., there was a recent event that very much mixed the old and new of Hollywood culture. A young woman named Lynda Keeler runs LA.com, which is said to be the most fabulous online site about all things Los Angeles.
The party to launch the site was held at Perino's, at 4101 Wilshire Blvd. This was one of the lush, glamorous star-spotting eateries during Hollywood's golden age. (Faye Dunaway as Joan Crawford had a great scene in "Mommie Dearest" barking "Perino's is my place!")
Well, that Internet party was the last gasp for Perino's. The very next day, bulldozers flattened the restaurant.
I guess LA.com can cross Perino's off its list of places to go in Hollywood.
One problem: Perino's still lives (for now)! As a matter of fact, I drove by it tonight.
And bulldozers flattening the restaurant would sure be news to the Collage Dance Theatre, which is staging the performance "A Hunger Artist" at Perino's this weekend.
(And I think we can be safe in assuming that LA.com doesn't need to cross Perino's off any list -- the restaurant has been closed, except for private parties and filming, for over a decade.)
Check out cool shots of Perino's here, and learn about the unfortunate plan to replace the building with apartments here.
Also, L.A. Observed talks about the impending death of Perino's -- and its one last hurrah, the Collage Dance Theatre event -- here, and points to this past Sunday's L.A. Times "Here and Now" column devoted to the history of Perino's restaurant.
Cheesy Press Release 'O' The Day
And winner... for most bizarre stretch by a business to capitalize on the "Friends" finale goes to... Orbitz!
(Yeah, but do they have a package to Tulsa, where Chandler was briefly relocated two seasons ago?)
WHERE WILL YOU BE WATCHING THE LAST EPISODE OF FRIENDS?
ORBITZ SALUTES TELEVISION'S TOP RATED COMEDY WITH GREAT DEALS ON TRAVEL PACKAGES TO THE PLACES WHERE THE GANG TRAVELED
Chicago, March 30 -- While the home base of New York City was the main setting for NBC-TV's long-running comedy "Friends," some of the most important plot developments happened while the characters were on vacation. For instance, London and Las Vegas were destinations where the Rachel/Ross romance was tested to the limit.
Inspired by the impact vacations had on the comedy action, the experts at Orbitz, the popular online travel agency, recommend celebrating the final May 6th episode of this landmark television show by taking a great trip with friends to one of destinations the gang traveled to during their wildly successful 10 year run.
"Don't sit in your living room to watch the last episode of 'Friends," notes Mike Sands, vice president of marketing, Orbitz. "We think a really fun way to watch the show go out is to take your friends to The MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas -- we have three-night hotel packages from $299. Be on guard of getting crazy -- you may end up getting married like Ross and Rachel did!"
Barbados was the setting for the May 2003 episodes called "The One in Barbados, Parts 1 &2." "We have a great package at Divi Southwinds Resorts where the fifth night is free," explains Sands. "Five nights, air, hotel and transfers starting from $785 per person?and the fifth night is free."
"As the 'next chapter' of the group's lives unfolds, Los Angeles will be very important, so we're offering three nights at the Luxe Summit Hotel in Los Angeles from $459," says Sands. Matt LeBlanc's character, Joey, is being spun off into a new series for next fall that is set on the West Coast.
And if you want to come to New York City to act out your own 'Central Perk' fantasy, Orbitz has a three-night package rom $599 for air and a theatre district hotel.
To get in on these great deals, travel must occur before May 6.
* * *
Contacts at Burson-Marsteller:
Caroline Wolter: (212)614- XXXX
Nicole Pickens: (212)614-XXXX
Wow. And I'd been wondering how to celebrate this tremendous moment in television history. Barbados, where the fifth night is free.
(Yeah, but do they have a package to Tulsa, where Chandler was briefly relocated two seasons ago?)
WHERE WILL YOU BE WATCHING THE LAST EPISODE OF FRIENDS?
ORBITZ SALUTES TELEVISION'S TOP RATED COMEDY WITH GREAT DEALS ON TRAVEL PACKAGES TO THE PLACES WHERE THE GANG TRAVELED
Chicago, March 30 -- While the home base of New York City was the main setting for NBC-TV's long-running comedy "Friends," some of the most important plot developments happened while the characters were on vacation. For instance, London and Las Vegas were destinations where the Rachel/Ross romance was tested to the limit.
Inspired by the impact vacations had on the comedy action, the experts at Orbitz, the popular online travel agency, recommend celebrating the final May 6th episode of this landmark television show by taking a great trip with friends to one of destinations the gang traveled to during their wildly successful 10 year run.
"Don't sit in your living room to watch the last episode of 'Friends," notes Mike Sands, vice president of marketing, Orbitz. "We think a really fun way to watch the show go out is to take your friends to The MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas -- we have three-night hotel packages from $299. Be on guard of getting crazy -- you may end up getting married like Ross and Rachel did!"
Barbados was the setting for the May 2003 episodes called "The One in Barbados, Parts 1 &2." "We have a great package at Divi Southwinds Resorts where the fifth night is free," explains Sands. "Five nights, air, hotel and transfers starting from $785 per person?and the fifth night is free."
"As the 'next chapter' of the group's lives unfolds, Los Angeles will be very important, so we're offering three nights at the Luxe Summit Hotel in Los Angeles from $459," says Sands. Matt LeBlanc's character, Joey, is being spun off into a new series for next fall that is set on the West Coast.
And if you want to come to New York City to act out your own 'Central Perk' fantasy, Orbitz has a three-night package rom $599 for air and a theatre district hotel.
To get in on these great deals, travel must occur before May 6.
* * *
Contacts at Burson-Marsteller:
Caroline Wolter: (212)614- XXXX
Nicole Pickens: (212)614-XXXX
Wow. And I'd been wondering how to celebrate this tremendous moment in television history. Barbados, where the fifth night is free.
Drawn and Quartered
The winning California quarter design -- slated to enter circulation in early 2005 -- has been revealed, and I'm a little disappointed.
Oh, John Muir and Yosemite are fine. But I was really hoping for a design featuring an In-N-Out Burger.
As you well know, nothing says California like a Double Double. That, my friends, is what would make us the envy of every other state. The In-N-Out burger quarter would create such demand that the U.S. Mint would have to keep it in production too. Why didn't anyone call me?
Rate-A-Restaurant, #37 in a series
Restaurant: Mi Piace Italian Kitchen
Location: 25 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (Old Town); also in Burbank and Calabasas
Type of restaurant: Italian
They stipulated: No reservations necessary, no wait. Maria and I just wanted dessert, and they were quick to seat us.
What we ordered: Mi Piace Tear Drop ($5.50); Espresso Caramel Cake ($6.50); two house blend coffees ($4.50)
High point: Maria and I were driving around Pasadena, jonesing for dessert, when we decided to hit Old Town. We parked the car and randomly decided to check our Mi Piace. It was a serendipitous choice -- the Italian joint's dessert menu is huge, and goes far beyond the stereotypical tiramisu (which is still available, in case you want to stick with the standard).
Low point: But being a Friday night, the service lagged. And just ordering dessert, we were pretty much second-class citizens. Once our dessert came, we were abandoned. No coffee refills, and we had to practically beg for our check.
Overall impression: It felt like we had stepped into a New York late-night hangout -- and that's actually a good thing. The place was alive, the music was hip and it was late. We joked about taking a cab down to SoHo afterwards. Oh, and the desserts themselves were spot on. Presentation was excellent and both worked. Maria's "Tear Drop" had a chocolate/raspberry flavor, while my Espresso Caramel cake had a nice cinnamon taste.
Chance we will go back: We'll probably stick with the Pasadena location, which offered the kind of atmosphere that the Burbank one doesn't. Still on the fence whether we'll be back for the Italian food, but if we're looking to grab some late-night dessert, Mi Piace is near the top of the list.
For a complete archive of our Rate-A-Restaurant reviews, check out our companion ratearestaurant.blogspot.com website.
Location: 25 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (Old Town); also in Burbank and Calabasas
Type of restaurant: Italian
They stipulated: No reservations necessary, no wait. Maria and I just wanted dessert, and they were quick to seat us.
What we ordered: Mi Piace Tear Drop ($5.50); Espresso Caramel Cake ($6.50); two house blend coffees ($4.50)
High point: Maria and I were driving around Pasadena, jonesing for dessert, when we decided to hit Old Town. We parked the car and randomly decided to check our Mi Piace. It was a serendipitous choice -- the Italian joint's dessert menu is huge, and goes far beyond the stereotypical tiramisu (which is still available, in case you want to stick with the standard).
Low point: But being a Friday night, the service lagged. And just ordering dessert, we were pretty much second-class citizens. Once our dessert came, we were abandoned. No coffee refills, and we had to practically beg for our check.
Overall impression: It felt like we had stepped into a New York late-night hangout -- and that's actually a good thing. The place was alive, the music was hip and it was late. We joked about taking a cab down to SoHo afterwards. Oh, and the desserts themselves were spot on. Presentation was excellent and both worked. Maria's "Tear Drop" had a chocolate/raspberry flavor, while my Espresso Caramel cake had a nice cinnamon taste.
Chance we will go back: We'll probably stick with the Pasadena location, which offered the kind of atmosphere that the Burbank one doesn't. Still on the fence whether we'll be back for the Italian food, but if we're looking to grab some late-night dessert, Mi Piace is near the top of the list.
For a complete archive of our Rate-A-Restaurant reviews, check out our companion ratearestaurant.blogspot.com website.
West Hollywood Deja Vu
Bad news for businesses and residents around Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood: The street needs to be repaved. Again.
I lived on Kings Road, just off of Santa Monica Boulevard, when West Hollywood tore up the street the first time. The city's main thoroughfare was basically a mess from 1999 to when it was finally completed in August 2001.
But apparently the construction was shoddy, and just three years later the street is already showing serious sign of wear and tear, the L.A. Times reports:
West Hollywood officials say they must repave large strips of roadway and replant scores of trees.
The signs are subtle — trees are sinking and the wheel paths of buses and trucks are evident in the roadway. (Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf manager Mike) Gibson and others who lived through the first renovation will probably see more construction, and no one is happy about it.
City officials blame the planning firm that oversaw the original project and have filed a $13-million lawsuit.
I still have a chunk of the original Santa Monica Boulevard -- complete with a stamp that says "1927" -- that I swiped when the street was torn up. It's not quite as valuable as a piece of the Berlin Wall... but it's a souvenir.
I lived on Kings Road, just off of Santa Monica Boulevard, when West Hollywood tore up the street the first time. The city's main thoroughfare was basically a mess from 1999 to when it was finally completed in August 2001.
But apparently the construction was shoddy, and just three years later the street is already showing serious sign of wear and tear, the L.A. Times reports:
West Hollywood officials say they must repave large strips of roadway and replant scores of trees.
The signs are subtle — trees are sinking and the wheel paths of buses and trucks are evident in the roadway. (Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf manager Mike) Gibson and others who lived through the first renovation will probably see more construction, and no one is happy about it.
City officials blame the planning firm that oversaw the original project and have filed a $13-million lawsuit.
I still have a chunk of the original Santa Monica Boulevard -- complete with a stamp that says "1927" -- that I swiped when the street was torn up. It's not quite as valuable as a piece of the Berlin Wall... but it's a souvenir.
Sunday, March 28, 2004
Restraining Order Corner
Ever wonder what's in the bank accounts of TV's "Friends"? Maria almost found out Friday, as she headed toward the new Borders Books & Music at Sunset and Vine.
Maria walked right past David Schwimmer, who was in line to use the Wells Fargo ATM. Schwimmer was hanging out with buddy and actor Joey Slotnick ("The Single Guy"). Schwimmer? In line to use an ATM? Don't all those guys just sweat money by now?
Meantime, at lunch Friday at the Beverly Wilshire -- the unofficial William Morris cafeteria -- I looked up from our table and made eye contact with Al Pacino. Yup, for a brief moment, I was engaged in a staring contest with Scarface. But it didn't last long. I lost, turning away after Pacino gave me one of those "Who the hell are you, and why are you lookin' at me?" stares.
Maria walked right past David Schwimmer, who was in line to use the Wells Fargo ATM. Schwimmer was hanging out with buddy and actor Joey Slotnick ("The Single Guy"). Schwimmer? In line to use an ATM? Don't all those guys just sweat money by now?
Meantime, at lunch Friday at the Beverly Wilshire -- the unofficial William Morris cafeteria -- I looked up from our table and made eye contact with Al Pacino. Yup, for a brief moment, I was engaged in a staring contest with Scarface. But it didn't last long. I lost, turning away after Pacino gave me one of those "Who the hell are you, and why are you lookin' at me?" stares.
Panoramania
One of the more unique attractions in Hollywood, The Velaslavasay Panorama, shuts down at the end of April.
Never heard of it? It's also one of Hollywood's best-kept secrets. I pass by it all the time on Hollywood Blvd. -- you've probably seen it too, it's the rotunda building surrounded by gardens and fronted with a large sign that says, simply, "PANORAMA."
The Velaslavasay Panorama's "Tswuun-Tswuun Rotunda" is inspired by an art form popular in the 1800s, when the public would visit tremendous rotundas to experience 360-degree panoramic works of art. The Velaslavasay Panorama -- once home to an ice cream shop and pizza parlor -- opened in February 2001.
The site is the brainchild of local artist Sara Velas, who created the first panorama, a painting 70 feet in circumference and nearly five feet tall titled "The Panorama of the Valley of the Smokes." Painting depicts the Los Angeles Basin as it might have existed 200 years ago -- during the height of the panorama craze.
Here's how the Panorama's website describes the attraction: Drawing on the illustrious history of the Great Panorama Paintings of the 18th and 19th centuries, The Velaslavasay PANORAMA in Hollywood is an exhibition rotunda and garden dedicated to the production and presentation of unusual visual experiences of the 360 degree variety.
An early relative to the motion picture, the Panorama was the first manifestation of mass media entertainment culture as we know it today. Based on this curious history and its profound influence on the entertainment industry, it seems absolutely appropriate that the Velaslavasay PANORAMA should find a home on Hollywood Boulevard.
But the site has been sold, and the Panorama must vacate the premises at the end of the month. The Velaslavasay Panorama will hold "old-fashioned style wake in celebration and for fond farewells of this quirky bit of architecture" on April 25 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Tswuun-Tswuun Rotunda is destined to be demolished soon after.
For now, The Velaslavasay Panorama is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from noon until 5 p.m. It's located at 5553 Hollywood Blvd., one block west of Western.
Rate-A-Restaurant, #36 in a series
Restaurant: Kung Pao Kitty
Location: 6445 Hollywood Blvd. (at Wilcox), Hollywood
Type of restaurant: Hipster Chinese
They stipulated: You find your own parking -- and in Hollywood, on a Saturday night, that's not always easy. But the parking gods were smiling on us, and we found a spot almost immediately, one block south of Hollywood. Otherwise, reservations aren't required.
What we ordered: Chili-crusted Calamari with spicy lime dip ($6.75); Kitty's Kung Pao Chicken ("Our main squeeze, with mango," $9.50); Steamed baby bok choy ($6.50); Steamed fish in ginger onion sauce ($10.00)
High point: First off, how cool that this restaurant, along with Paladar around the corner (and a handful of others), is finally bringing some real late-night eating life to Hollywood. The food is cheap and a bargain for the amount you get. Menu is also very eclectic, and doesn't just stick to Chinese: Kung Pao Kitty also offers several Filipino dishes, including lumpia and Chicken adobo.
Low point: Strangely enough, their signature dish -- the Kitty's Kung Pao -- was my least favorite dish. It was sort of on the bland side, compared to the tasty steamed fish and the calamari, which was the most tender I've had in a while.
Overall impression: Cool, urban eating experience. The restaurant's bright red decor and ambience give it an almost New York feel -- Maria compared it to Kelly and Ping in Soho. Service was top-notch, while the bathroom was clean. Place wasn't too crowded, particularly for a Saturday night -- but wasn't empty either. On the Chinese food authenticity scale, well, you're not going to mistake it for the real thing. But what the hell, you're not going to Hollywood to eat authentic Chinese food.
Chance we will go back: Maybe not immediately, but I think we'll find ourselves there eventually, especially if we're in the neighborhood.
For a complete archive of our Rate-A-Restaurant reviews, check out our companion ratearestaurant.blogspot.com website.
Location: 6445 Hollywood Blvd. (at Wilcox), Hollywood
Type of restaurant: Hipster Chinese
They stipulated: You find your own parking -- and in Hollywood, on a Saturday night, that's not always easy. But the parking gods were smiling on us, and we found a spot almost immediately, one block south of Hollywood. Otherwise, reservations aren't required.
What we ordered: Chili-crusted Calamari with spicy lime dip ($6.75); Kitty's Kung Pao Chicken ("Our main squeeze, with mango," $9.50); Steamed baby bok choy ($6.50); Steamed fish in ginger onion sauce ($10.00)
High point: First off, how cool that this restaurant, along with Paladar around the corner (and a handful of others), is finally bringing some real late-night eating life to Hollywood. The food is cheap and a bargain for the amount you get. Menu is also very eclectic, and doesn't just stick to Chinese: Kung Pao Kitty also offers several Filipino dishes, including lumpia and Chicken adobo.
Low point: Strangely enough, their signature dish -- the Kitty's Kung Pao -- was my least favorite dish. It was sort of on the bland side, compared to the tasty steamed fish and the calamari, which was the most tender I've had in a while.
Overall impression: Cool, urban eating experience. The restaurant's bright red decor and ambience give it an almost New York feel -- Maria compared it to Kelly and Ping in Soho. Service was top-notch, while the bathroom was clean. Place wasn't too crowded, particularly for a Saturday night -- but wasn't empty either. On the Chinese food authenticity scale, well, you're not going to mistake it for the real thing. But what the hell, you're not going to Hollywood to eat authentic Chinese food.
Chance we will go back: Maybe not immediately, but I think we'll find ourselves there eventually, especially if we're in the neighborhood.
For a complete archive of our Rate-A-Restaurant reviews, check out our companion ratearestaurant.blogspot.com website.
Thursday, March 25, 2004
...And This Is Why We'll Never Own a Home in Southern California, Part 2
Maria and I are stunned by the similarities between dating and home shopping. In both cases, you're playing the field until you eventually meet someone you'd like to date/see a home you'd like to buy. After some flirtation, you ask that person out/make a bid on the house. Nine times out of ten, you're turned down/your bid isn't accepted.
Then, after nursing that heartbreak, you gotta pick yourself up and try it all over again.
As you read below, we bid two weekends ago on a beautiful Craftsman house in Pasadena. We lost out when someone else offered $67,000 more than the asking price for the house.
That was tough. But believe it or not, we found another home we liked this past weekend. It's located in Highland Park, has beautiful views and plenty of room to grow. It's even got a zen like garden, complete with fountains. Nice house.
Problem is, the house was probably Highland Park's worst-kept secret. We checked it out on Saturday and again on Sunday. Both open house days were packed.
But what the hell. We made a bid. And substantially over the asking price -- after being burned the first time, we unfortunately know how the game is played.
But apparently so does everyone else. We turned in our bid this Monday afternoon -- and according to our broker, the home owners recived 34 bids!!
No lie. THIRTY-FOUR friggin' bids!
I know there's a home crunch in Los Angeles, but this is ridiculous. We just can't play that game. On to the next heartbreak!
Then, after nursing that heartbreak, you gotta pick yourself up and try it all over again.
As you read below, we bid two weekends ago on a beautiful Craftsman house in Pasadena. We lost out when someone else offered $67,000 more than the asking price for the house.
That was tough. But believe it or not, we found another home we liked this past weekend. It's located in Highland Park, has beautiful views and plenty of room to grow. It's even got a zen like garden, complete with fountains. Nice house.
Problem is, the house was probably Highland Park's worst-kept secret. We checked it out on Saturday and again on Sunday. Both open house days were packed.
But what the hell. We made a bid. And substantially over the asking price -- after being burned the first time, we unfortunately know how the game is played.
But apparently so does everyone else. We turned in our bid this Monday afternoon -- and according to our broker, the home owners recived 34 bids!!
No lie. THIRTY-FOUR friggin' bids!
I know there's a home crunch in Los Angeles, but this is ridiculous. We just can't play that game. On to the next heartbreak!
Wednesday, March 24, 2004
"I'm Gonna Be a Supermodel"
That's me with with "America's Next Top Model" winner Yoanna
Mike and Ms. Tyra
We almost didn't make it inside. There was a long line and we were inches away but the room was full. The fire marshalls were inside making sure things didn't get out of hand.
Eric Nicholson of Jane Magazine came out for a smoke and was immediately reprimanded by the bouncer mumbling something about the fire code. He went on smoking anyway and a bigger guy came by to stop him. "I'm on the show," he said (read: "I can do the f*@# I want"). Finally, someone came out to talk to him, and he was immediately ushered back in.
A half hour later, miraculously, we were in. Just in time for the parade of the model wannabes onstage. They aired the show at the party and I would say that 2/3 of the room was watching -- not bad for an industry event.
After the show, we mingled with Ms. Tyra and the models. They were all nice and gracious enough to have their pictures taken.
I was in awe of Tyra when Mike asked to have his picture taken with her. As soon as she said okay, swoosh! She tossed her hair and gave me that picture-perfect smile and posed for the camera. What a pro.
Camille, surprisingly, was the nicest. We locked eyes, then she smiled and came to me and gave me a kiss on the cheek. I asked if she's pursuing modelling and she said that there are some things on the table and she's keeping her options open.
Shanthrax was quietly watching the crowd with her boyfriend. Her boyfriend was taller than her (quite the opposite impression I got from his picture) and was cute.
I spied on April and Nigel talking for awhile then Nigel had his picture taken with a couple of women. After the picture, one of the women leaned over for a kiss and he indulged her. I was quite surprised by that sensual exchange, especially with his wife looking on. I think Nigel was taken aback as well.
Mercedes, Yoanna and April all took their moms to the party, which was really sweet. What's not sweet was that all the models had to bend their knees and crouch down to have their pictures taken with me. And yes, I was wearing heels.
Twist Your Knob
"HAWAIIAN EYE" premieres THIS WEEK on 88.5 KCSN-FM, the public radio station run by California State University-Northridge!!
Every Thursday night/Friday morning from Midnight to 2 a.m., under the guise of "Bruddah Mike," I'll be playing a mix of contemporary and classic Hawaiian tunes, with a little bit of reggae and other island rythyms mixed in for good measure.
Earlier this week, I received word that the show had been postponed due to some scheduling issues at the station. But I just received word today -- "Hawaiian Eye" will be on the air this week after all!
KCSN can easily be heard from the San Fernando Valley, but the reception gets fuzzy over the hill. The station is about to add a transmitter in West Los Angeles, which should improve the signal in the rest of L.A., including Los Feliz. I'll keep you informed. Until then, you can listen to the station on the web at www.kcsn.org.
Anchor Away
The shuffles continue in the L.A. TV news scene: Latest to get the ax is KTLA sports anchor Tony Hernandez, who's been canned by the station.
Hernandez -- whose last day is April 16 -- ain't too pleased, either. After being told to essentially shape up or ship out, KTLA management decided to go ahead and ship him out, telling Hernandez last week his contract wouldn't be renewed.
"I wasn't prepared enough for that moment," Hernandez told Variety. "What was surprising was how badly it was handled. After six years at the station, the ending was rather unprofessional and abrupt."
Tuesday, March 23, 2004
With Friends Like These...
So why are new hit sitcoms so few and far between? Only half-facetiously, I blame NBC's "Friends" in the latest issue of Variety's weekly edition.
Think about it: The rash of "Friends" clones in the late 1990s not only flopped, but may have soured viewers as a whole on network comedy (a few exceptions aside). The race to develop the next urban, young adults comedy may have also kept studios and networks away from coming up with better shows.
Now, as "Friends" leaves the air at the end of this season, the sitcom genre continues to sit on life support.
Downtown Eats
Go pick up a free copy of this week's free Downtown News before it's gone. This week's issue includes a glossy 2004 Restaurant Guide that's one of the most thorough listings I've seen of where to eat downtown.
Oh, it doesn't quite list everything -- it's still an ad-supported list, after all, so a few eateries like Ciudad aren't included. But otherwise, it includes a solid laundry list of restaurants Maria and I either like or have been meaning to try: Engine Co. No. 28, R-23, CBS Seafood, Traxx, Cicada, Water Grill, Phillipe the Original, Pete's Cafe & Bar, Farmer Boys, the San Antonio Winery and a lot more.
It even lists pastrami capital Langer's. Although, I love how they sugarcoat things: "For diners on the go, Langer's has an ingenious curbside service. Customers call ahead with the type of car they're driving and the denomination they'll be paying with, and the staff will come out with a piping hot brown bag and correct change as soon as they see the caller's car pull up."
Yeah, it's called the "Service for Westsiders Too Scared to Get Out of Their Car in MacArthur Park."
Oh, it doesn't quite list everything -- it's still an ad-supported list, after all, so a few eateries like Ciudad aren't included. But otherwise, it includes a solid laundry list of restaurants Maria and I either like or have been meaning to try: Engine Co. No. 28, R-23, CBS Seafood, Traxx, Cicada, Water Grill, Phillipe the Original, Pete's Cafe & Bar, Farmer Boys, the San Antonio Winery and a lot more.
It even lists pastrami capital Langer's. Although, I love how they sugarcoat things: "For diners on the go, Langer's has an ingenious curbside service. Customers call ahead with the type of car they're driving and the denomination they'll be paying with, and the staff will come out with a piping hot brown bag and correct change as soon as they see the caller's car pull up."
Yeah, it's called the "Service for Westsiders Too Scared to Get Out of Their Car in MacArthur Park."
We've All Been Punk'd
Tiffany's got the scoop: According to her sources, Ashton Kutcher is actually 31 -- even though he gives his birth date as Feb. 7, 1978.
If true, that would put him in good company: Other older folk who played teenagers on TV, including Henry "Fonz" Winkler and Luke Perry, who, believe it or not, was 59 when he starred as Dylan on "Beverly Hills 90210."
(Speaking of Tiffany, check out her post here, where we each give you ten more reasons to watch Fox's "Arrested Development," in case you're still in the dark.)
If true, that would put him in good company: Other older folk who played teenagers on TV, including Henry "Fonz" Winkler and Luke Perry, who, believe it or not, was 59 when he starred as Dylan on "Beverly Hills 90210."
(Speaking of Tiffany, check out her post here, where we each give you ten more reasons to watch Fox's "Arrested Development," in case you're still in the dark.)
Monday, March 22, 2004
Skankin' to the Riddim
Things continue to get eclectic at new radio station Indie 103.1, which has added a two-hour reggae show on Sunday nights.
"Native Wayne" Jobson, who once hosted the long-gone "Reggae Revolution" show on KROQ, has now brought his Jamaican accent to Indie 103.1. "Native Wayne's Smoke In" airs Sunday nights from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the station.
I caught a portion of the show this Sunday, just as Native Wayne schooled listeners on the four must-have reggae records any music lover should own: Buju Banton's "Til Shiloh," Bunny Wailer's "Blackheart Man," Peter Tosh's "Equal Rights," and -- of course -- Bob Marley's "Legend."
Also, Indie 103.1 has erected its first billboard, off the side of the Key Club on Sunset:
"Native Wayne" Jobson, who once hosted the long-gone "Reggae Revolution" show on KROQ, has now brought his Jamaican accent to Indie 103.1. "Native Wayne's Smoke In" airs Sunday nights from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the station.
I caught a portion of the show this Sunday, just as Native Wayne schooled listeners on the four must-have reggae records any music lover should own: Buju Banton's "Til Shiloh," Bunny Wailer's "Blackheart Man," Peter Tosh's "Equal Rights," and -- of course -- Bob Marley's "Legend."
Also, Indie 103.1 has erected its first billboard, off the side of the Key Club on Sunset:
It's probably no coincidence that the billboard faces Wetherly Drive -- take it as a subtle taunt at Kevin Weatherly, senior vice president of programming at Infinity and KROQ.
MEANWHILE, in slightly disappointing news, the premiere of my new radio show has been delayed. KCSN has had a scheduling snafu, meaning the Wednesday night/Thursday morning slot I was supposed to take over this week isn't available after all. Another slot should open up in a few weeks, I've been told, so stay tuned!
Metal Mouth
I've now been sporting braces for ten months. They're still a daily pain in the okole... but I've also gotten used to them as a part of normal life. Other than having to brush my teeth and reapply ortho wax and elastics after every meal -- oh, and that damn wire poking into the side of my mouth-- things have gotten back to normal.
Ten months ago, of course, it seemed like life as I had known it would have to take a two-year hiatus. I couldn't eat anything solid, which sent me racing to the Gelson's to buy loads of applesauce and baby food.
But I slowly regained the ability to chew (in the process, though, I lost about 10 pounds -- love the braces diet!) and now I eat just about anything, as long as it's not too crunchy. (I finally passed off the unopened baby food to my brother-in-law and sister-in-law this weekend.)
I've also gotten over my shyness of brushing my teeth in public -- and now I don't even mind that the big boss walks in to the men's room almost everytime I'm cleaning my mouth. (The reaction from people is always the same: "Wow-- that's great dental hygiene!" Of course, it's easy to remember to brush when half of your lunch is still stuck in your mouth!)
Despite all this, because I'm rarely looking into the mirror, I frequently forget that my appearance is altered these days. When I open my mouth to smile, I'm not concious of the fact that people are getting a big glimpse of metal.
That's why I was taken slightly aback last week while visiting the DreamWorks campus in Glendale. The studio has been showing off early edits of its upcoming NBC computer-animated comedy "Father of the Pride," inviting reporters on campus to see the process and watch a few minutes of video.
Jeffrey Katzenberg -- a big Siegfried & Roy fan who came up with the series idea -- was leading the presentation himself -- after all, he has a lot riding on the show.
But as he brought us into the DreamWorks theater, Katzenberg turned to me and asked, out of the blue, "How long have you had your braces?"
I told him -- about a year. "They're a bitch, aren't they?" he said.
Apparently the DreamWorks partner just recently had his braces removed after wearing them for the past year. We swapped stories over why we got braces and the pain of having a metal mouth.
Now that my treatment is about half way done, I can say I'm glad I'm doing this. And I'll be even more glad come February when, if all goes as planned, these damn things come off.
Ten months ago, of course, it seemed like life as I had known it would have to take a two-year hiatus. I couldn't eat anything solid, which sent me racing to the Gelson's to buy loads of applesauce and baby food.
But I slowly regained the ability to chew (in the process, though, I lost about 10 pounds -- love the braces diet!) and now I eat just about anything, as long as it's not too crunchy. (I finally passed off the unopened baby food to my brother-in-law and sister-in-law this weekend.)
I've also gotten over my shyness of brushing my teeth in public -- and now I don't even mind that the big boss walks in to the men's room almost everytime I'm cleaning my mouth. (The reaction from people is always the same: "Wow-- that's great dental hygiene!" Of course, it's easy to remember to brush when half of your lunch is still stuck in your mouth!)
Despite all this, because I'm rarely looking into the mirror, I frequently forget that my appearance is altered these days. When I open my mouth to smile, I'm not concious of the fact that people are getting a big glimpse of metal.
That's why I was taken slightly aback last week while visiting the DreamWorks campus in Glendale. The studio has been showing off early edits of its upcoming NBC computer-animated comedy "Father of the Pride," inviting reporters on campus to see the process and watch a few minutes of video.
Jeffrey Katzenberg -- a big Siegfried & Roy fan who came up with the series idea -- was leading the presentation himself -- after all, he has a lot riding on the show.
But as he brought us into the DreamWorks theater, Katzenberg turned to me and asked, out of the blue, "How long have you had your braces?"
I told him -- about a year. "They're a bitch, aren't they?" he said.
Apparently the DreamWorks partner just recently had his braces removed after wearing them for the past year. We swapped stories over why we got braces and the pain of having a metal mouth.
Now that my treatment is about half way done, I can say I'm glad I'm doing this. And I'll be even more glad come February when, if all goes as planned, these damn things come off.
Sunday, March 21, 2004
Tiki-Time Out
A sign outside the famed Tiki-Ti bar in Silver Lake was cause for concern: "CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE."
But Tiki-Ti's website promises the shutdown is only temporary. The tiki bar's pipes had to be replaced, forcing its owners to rip up its concrete floor. Tiki-Ti should reopen within the next few weeks.
Good to hear. The tiny bar -- no bigger than your average living room -- remains one of those quirky holdovers from a time when "tiki culture" -- specifically, sweet rum-based drinks -- were all the rage.
Tiki Ti is located at 4427 Sunset Blvd., next to KCET's studios, and down the street from the Rudy's Barbershop in Silver Lake. The place is quirky: Cash only, tropical drinks only (no beer/wine) and smoking is allowed (the place has no employees). Tiki-Ti is open from 6 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Wednesday through Saturday.
But Tiki-Ti's website promises the shutdown is only temporary. The tiki bar's pipes had to be replaced, forcing its owners to rip up its concrete floor. Tiki-Ti should reopen within the next few weeks.
Good to hear. The tiny bar -- no bigger than your average living room -- remains one of those quirky holdovers from a time when "tiki culture" -- specifically, sweet rum-based drinks -- were all the rage.
Tiki Ti is located at 4427 Sunset Blvd., next to KCET's studios, and down the street from the Rudy's Barbershop in Silver Lake. The place is quirky: Cash only, tropical drinks only (no beer/wine) and smoking is allowed (the place has no employees). Tiki-Ti is open from 6 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Wednesday through Saturday.
Saturday, March 20, 2004
Radical Food Blog
Leafing through the pages of Gourmet magazine at the gym (their copy, but that's another story), I was quite pleased to see The Radical Chef's site listed first on their roster of top food blogs.
Connie, the radical chef, shares her own recipes, techniques and the advantages of a healthy, homecooked meal. She truly enjoys the art of cooking and is teaching her children the ways of the kitchen -- just as she learned from her father and grandparents.
And aside from being a mom and an accomplished cook, did I mention that she is a lawyer too?
Plus, she's putting Filipino food on the (web) map. Go check it out...
Connie, the radical chef, shares her own recipes, techniques and the advantages of a healthy, homecooked meal. She truly enjoys the art of cooking and is teaching her children the ways of the kitchen -- just as she learned from her father and grandparents.
And aside from being a mom and an accomplished cook, did I mention that she is a lawyer too?
Plus, she's putting Filipino food on the (web) map. Go check it out...
Who Killed Biggie?
As always, L.A. Times reporter Chuck Phillips gets the skinny on the FBI's decision to investigate the 1997 murder of hip-hop star the Notorious B.I.G.
Just like Tupac Shakur's 1996 murder, the assassination of B.I.G. -- outside the Petersen Automotive Museum at Wilshire and Fairfax -- has never been solved. But some have said for years that an LAPD officer, David Mack, hired a friend, Amir Muhammad (at the behest of Death Row Records' "Suge" Knight), to kill the rapper (also known as "Biggie Smalls," and by his real name, Christopher Wallace). The FBI -- tipped by a VH1 special, of all things, is suddenly interested.
Phillips has been on top of the Biggie/Tupac beat for years. For this story, he easily gets Suge Knight -- currently in jail -- and Muhammad to speak on the record. Not surprisingly, they deny everything.
Just like Tupac Shakur's 1996 murder, the assassination of B.I.G. -- outside the Petersen Automotive Museum at Wilshire and Fairfax -- has never been solved. But some have said for years that an LAPD officer, David Mack, hired a friend, Amir Muhammad (at the behest of Death Row Records' "Suge" Knight), to kill the rapper (also known as "Biggie Smalls," and by his real name, Christopher Wallace). The FBI -- tipped by a VH1 special, of all things, is suddenly interested.
Phillips has been on top of the Biggie/Tupac beat for years. For this story, he easily gets Suge Knight -- currently in jail -- and Muhammad to speak on the record. Not surprisingly, they deny everything.
Friday, March 19, 2004
I Don't Know, What Do You Think, Randy Newman?
Leave it to the Daily News to ask the tough poll questions. Here's today's "Question of the Day" on the newspaper's website:
Do you love L.A.?
( ) Yes
( ) No
As of 8 am, it's neck-and-neck : "Yes, I love L.A." gets 51%, while "No, I don't love L.A." has 49%.
Coming tomorrow: "Do you love cheese?"
UPDATE: As of 6:30 p.m., "Yes, I love L.A." has pulled ahead, with 59%, to "No, I don't love L.A.," which has 41%.
Do you love L.A.?
( ) Yes
( ) No
As of 8 am, it's neck-and-neck : "Yes, I love L.A." gets 51%, while "No, I don't love L.A." has 49%.
Coming tomorrow: "Do you love cheese?"
UPDATE: As of 6:30 p.m., "Yes, I love L.A." has pulled ahead, with 59%, to "No, I don't love L.A.," which has 41%.
The "F" Word
Memo from the FCC, just as I start my radio show next week: Don't use the F-word.
Not that I was planning to -- this is a Hawaiian music show, not some shock jock program. (Although, to be fair, even Howard Stern and Co. have their limits, and that includes not uttering that word.)
Announcement came after the FCC on Thursday overturned a previous ruling and announced that it was indecent and profane when Bono uttered the word in a moment of excitement at last year's Golden Globes.
"The 'F-word' is one of the most vulgar, graphic and explicit descriptions of sexual activity in the English language," the commission said Thursday. "The fact that the use of this word may have been unintentional is irrelevant; it still has the same effect of exposing children to indecent language."
Not that I was planning to -- this is a Hawaiian music show, not some shock jock program. (Although, to be fair, even Howard Stern and Co. have their limits, and that includes not uttering that word.)
Announcement came after the FCC on Thursday overturned a previous ruling and announced that it was indecent and profane when Bono uttered the word in a moment of excitement at last year's Golden Globes.
"The 'F-word' is one of the most vulgar, graphic and explicit descriptions of sexual activity in the English language," the commission said Thursday. "The fact that the use of this word may have been unintentional is irrelevant; it still has the same effect of exposing children to indecent language."
Thursday, March 18, 2004
Meet Bruddah Mike
Big news! (Well, for me, at least.) I'm launching a new radio show beginning next week on 88.5 KCSN-FM, the public radio station run by California State University-Northridge.
"Hawaiian Eye" will air every Thursday night/early Friday morning from Midnight to 2 a.m.
That's right, I'm going Hawaiian on ya. I've been looking for years to get back on the air, and decided that pitching a niche format -- and one that can't be found anywhere else on Los Angeles radio -- would be my best shot at landing a radio gig.
After a year of on-and-off talks with KCSN management, it's finally coming true. If you've visited Hawaii (where I grew up during my high school/teenage years), you've probably noticed that contemporary Hawaiian music has turned into a major industry. In Honolulu, three of the top five radio stations (according to Arbitron) boast a Hawaiian/island music format. The Hawaiian music industry has its own stars and even its own version of the Grammys -- pretty unique.
I can't tell you how much I've missed being on the radio. In high school, I guest DJed on a number of stations in Hawaii. And in college, I ran WNUR, the nation's largest-student run station (covering the Chicago market). As "Dr. Mike," I did a freeform show for five years with Tony ("Ton-Def").
But now, alas, I've retired the "Dr. Mike" moniker. In the spirit of the Hawaiian show, I'm calling myself "Bruddah Mike." It should be a lot of fun. "Hawaiian Eye" starts next week -- check it out!
Parental Discretion is Advised. Oh, F*** It!
Getting a little tired of Washington's cultural McCarthyists trying to "protect" you from the evil, evil broadcast media? Just want to hear your favorite stars let off steam and throw out a few curse words? Check out this promo from England's Channel 4. (Just make sure your sound is, um, turned down if you're at work.)
It will make your day.
(Thanks to Ann for the link.)
It will make your day.
(Thanks to Ann for the link.)
Heart Attack Killed the Video Jockey Star
MTV's JJ Jackson and Martha Quinn in the 1980s
Here's an item that will make us all feel old: Sad to report, via LARadio.com, that one of the original MTV VJs, J.J. Jackson, died last night of a heart attack.
Reports LARadio.com's Don Barrett: JJ worked afternoon drive when he arrived at KLOS from WBCN-Boston in 1969. He spent a decade there. Later in the 1980s, JJ worked at KDAY, KWST, KROQ and KMPC/fm, which later became KEDG ("The Edge"). In late 1994, JJ began hosting "The Beatle Years," a syndicated series airing on 200 stations nationwide. He spent many years at Westwood One. He returned to KLOS in 2000 to host "The Seventh Day." Most recently, JJ worked afternoon drive at KTWV, "The WAVE."
Like many of you, I grew up with fond memories of the original 1980s VJs: Jackson, Martha Quinn, Nina Blackwood, Alan Hunter and Mark Goodman. I still vividly remember watching all of them covering what was one of the channel's finest early moments, 1985's Live Aid.
J.J. always seemed so cool -- and he knew almost everything you needed to know about music (something sorely lacking in today's MTV VJs). Sorry to see him go.
UPDATE: LARadio.com has compiled a list of remembrances from local radio personalities here.
Priced Out
You want irony, Alanis? A Ventura County affordable housing advocate is packing his bags and moving to Connecticut because... he can't find an affordable house to buy in Ventura County.
Lyle Wray is leaving his job at the Ventura County Civic Alliance to take a similar job on the east coast, where, he told the Los Angeles Times, he has found plenty of beautiful homes under $300,000. He just can't afford a home in Ventura County with his $80,000 a year salary, he said.
Writes the paper:
If it's tough now, it's only going to get worse, economic experts say. Housing prices across Southern California last month surged to new highs, according to figures released by DataQuick Information Systems.
"If I can't afford to live here, what happens to police, teachers, firefighters?" Wray said. "I call it the Santa Barbara-Monaco syndrome. If this keeps up, only the rich and the people who cut their grass will be living here."
His own moment of truth came when he looked at a "mediocre" Thousand Oaks townhouse on the market for $340,000, Wray said.
"I just said, 'OK, that's it.' It was not in a terribly good neighborhood and there was an association fee on top of the mortgage," he said.
Lyle Wray is leaving his job at the Ventura County Civic Alliance to take a similar job on the east coast, where, he told the Los Angeles Times, he has found plenty of beautiful homes under $300,000. He just can't afford a home in Ventura County with his $80,000 a year salary, he said.
Writes the paper:
If it's tough now, it's only going to get worse, economic experts say. Housing prices across Southern California last month surged to new highs, according to figures released by DataQuick Information Systems.
"If I can't afford to live here, what happens to police, teachers, firefighters?" Wray said. "I call it the Santa Barbara-Monaco syndrome. If this keeps up, only the rich and the people who cut their grass will be living here."
His own moment of truth came when he looked at a "mediocre" Thousand Oaks townhouse on the market for $340,000, Wray said.
"I just said, 'OK, that's it.' It was not in a terribly good neighborhood and there was an association fee on top of the mortgage," he said.
Wednesday, March 17, 2004
Howard Tsing Loh
Looking for a place to channel your First Amendment energies now that the KCRW/Sandra Tsing Loh flap has died down (in case you're not keeping up, KCRW offered Loh her commentary back, but Loh declined)? This press release just came across my desk:
Stand Up for Stern!
Hey So Cal... it's time to stand up for Stern
Who: Howard Stern Fans!
What: Stand Up for Stern Rally. Support freedom of speech on the radio. It is important that everyone who participates understands that they must obey all laws. You cannot impede traffic. You must stay on the sidewalk. Do not jaywalk. Cross the streets at the appropriate intersections with traffic signals. Park legally to avoid parking tickets. Bring your signs to show your support!
When: Friday, March 19 from 6AM - 10AM
Where: On the sidewalk in front of the Federal Building West Los Angeles
West Los Angeles Federal Building
11000 Wilshire Blvd.
West Los Angeles, CA 90024
(Cross streets Wilshire and Veterans)
Why: To protect freedom of speech on radio.
***
As Brian Lowry noted in his Variety piece today, Stern's whining has become grating, and may ultimately hurt his cause. But what the hell. It's always good to get a rally going to fight some of the post-2/1 cultural McCarthyism taking hold in Washington.
Meanwhile, Loh gets the last word on her firing from KCRW: Her Time magazine piece can be found here.
Stand Up for Stern!
Hey So Cal... it's time to stand up for Stern
Who: Howard Stern Fans!
What: Stand Up for Stern Rally. Support freedom of speech on the radio. It is important that everyone who participates understands that they must obey all laws. You cannot impede traffic. You must stay on the sidewalk. Do not jaywalk. Cross the streets at the appropriate intersections with traffic signals. Park legally to avoid parking tickets. Bring your signs to show your support!
When: Friday, March 19 from 6AM - 10AM
Where: On the sidewalk in front of the Federal Building West Los Angeles
West Los Angeles Federal Building
11000 Wilshire Blvd.
West Los Angeles, CA 90024
(Cross streets Wilshire and Veterans)
Why: To protect freedom of speech on radio.
***
As Brian Lowry noted in his Variety piece today, Stern's whining has become grating, and may ultimately hurt his cause. But what the hell. It's always good to get a rally going to fight some of the post-2/1 cultural McCarthyism taking hold in Washington.
Meanwhile, Loh gets the last word on her firing from KCRW: Her Time magazine piece can be found here.
Rate-A-Restaurant, #35 in a series
Restaurant: Toi on Sunset
Location: 7505 1/2 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles
Type of restaurant: Rock and Roll Thai
They stipulated: It was a busy Thursday night -- so we had to wait for a table. Also, you gotta find parking in what's a pretty busy neighborhood.
What we ordered: Pad Seeyew, Yellow Chicken Curry, Eggplant Pumpkin Tofu
High point: Maria and I headed to Toi last Thursday night after the TV muesum's Paley Festival "Arrested Development" panel. Talk about hitting the spot. What is it about late night Thai food that makes it extra tasty? The Pad Seeyew was good, but the standout was the Yellow Chicken Curry.
Low point: On the flip side, we were disappointed with the Eggplant Pumpkin Tofu. The dish is listed on Toi's website as a customer favorite, and our waiter raved. Maria and I like eggplant, we like pumpkin and we like tofu, so it should have been good. Alas, it didn't really work.
Overall impression: Can you believe, despite living here all these years, we had never been to Toi? Perhaps it's not the best Thai food in town, but it still promises a fun atmosphere. Hell, the joint was playing "The Goonies" on TV. How can you not like that?
Chance we will go back: Hungry? Midnight? I'm sure we'll find our way back to Toi.
For a complete archive of our Rate-A-Restaurant reviews, check out our companion ratearestaurant.blogspot.com website.
Location: 7505 1/2 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles
Type of restaurant: Rock and Roll Thai
They stipulated: It was a busy Thursday night -- so we had to wait for a table. Also, you gotta find parking in what's a pretty busy neighborhood.
What we ordered: Pad Seeyew, Yellow Chicken Curry, Eggplant Pumpkin Tofu
High point: Maria and I headed to Toi last Thursday night after the TV muesum's Paley Festival "Arrested Development" panel. Talk about hitting the spot. What is it about late night Thai food that makes it extra tasty? The Pad Seeyew was good, but the standout was the Yellow Chicken Curry.
Low point: On the flip side, we were disappointed with the Eggplant Pumpkin Tofu. The dish is listed on Toi's website as a customer favorite, and our waiter raved. Maria and I like eggplant, we like pumpkin and we like tofu, so it should have been good. Alas, it didn't really work.
Overall impression: Can you believe, despite living here all these years, we had never been to Toi? Perhaps it's not the best Thai food in town, but it still promises a fun atmosphere. Hell, the joint was playing "The Goonies" on TV. How can you not like that?
Chance we will go back: Hungry? Midnight? I'm sure we'll find our way back to Toi.
For a complete archive of our Rate-A-Restaurant reviews, check out our companion ratearestaurant.blogspot.com website.
Tuesday, March 16, 2004
Sorry 'Bout That Virus, Joel Siegel!
I don't know Joel Siegel. I've never e-mailed Joel Siegel.
Yet, apparently my computer knows the ABC "Good Morning America" movie critic. I received a generic email from the Walt Disney Co. server today, returning an unopened email my computer had sent -- clearly with a virus attached -- to Joel Siegel's abc.com email account. Oops.
Meanwhile, just to be wacky, thanks to Google, here's a Joel Siegel recipe for Sweet Potato-Pecan Pie.
God Bless Jessica Simpson!
You can't write this stuff. Unless, you're a cynic like me, and you think a team of writers actually is writing this stuff. Either way, Jessica Simpson's blonde outbursts continue to amuse.
The latest, from the Washington Post:
Jessica Simpson, whose verbal gaffes are also legendary, pulled another one Sunday visiting the White House, our sources say. The singer was introduced to Interior Secretary Gale Norton and gushed: "You've done a nice job decorating the White House."
(Thanks to Ben and Denise for that one.)
Memo to Roseanne: No.
Roseanne Barr offers up her services as a Martha Stewart replacement in an L.A. Times op-ed piece today.
Problem is, Roseanne probably hasn't lived that "Domestic Goddess" life in 15 years. Yet she still thinks she's in touch with the little people:
Now that Martha Stewart is busy with legal troubles, I was thinking that maybe there'd be room for me to step in and fill the vacuum (I still hate the word "vacuum") with some of my "Domestic Goddess" tips, wit and wisdom. I always figured there was room for both of us, but now, with her possibly going up the river, I figure it's time to elbow my way a little closer to center stage, again.
To tell you the truth, and I mean no disrespect to Martha, a lot of what she was talking about most days was a little high-toned for the likes of me and lots of the semi-average women who seemed to relate to my earthy "life strategies." I mean, in today's economy, lots of people's idea of gracious living is "paneling" the entire kitchen in their trailer with contact paper, as I once did in my trailer — the kind that costs 69 cents per 500-foot roll.
Our trailer, all 600 square feet of it, was a showcase for my "decorating instincts" — like turning the La-Z-Boy at an angle where my husband could see the TV while still getting the full effect of my yelling long before anyone was talking about feng shui.
She goes on to discuss how she was shocked the first time she visited Rome and couldn't find Spaghetti-Os on the menu.
Come on. Roseanne, you had enough money to buy a town with ex-hubby Tom Arnold.
Problem is, Roseanne probably hasn't lived that "Domestic Goddess" life in 15 years. Yet she still thinks she's in touch with the little people:
Now that Martha Stewart is busy with legal troubles, I was thinking that maybe there'd be room for me to step in and fill the vacuum (I still hate the word "vacuum") with some of my "Domestic Goddess" tips, wit and wisdom. I always figured there was room for both of us, but now, with her possibly going up the river, I figure it's time to elbow my way a little closer to center stage, again.
To tell you the truth, and I mean no disrespect to Martha, a lot of what she was talking about most days was a little high-toned for the likes of me and lots of the semi-average women who seemed to relate to my earthy "life strategies." I mean, in today's economy, lots of people's idea of gracious living is "paneling" the entire kitchen in their trailer with contact paper, as I once did in my trailer — the kind that costs 69 cents per 500-foot roll.
Our trailer, all 600 square feet of it, was a showcase for my "decorating instincts" — like turning the La-Z-Boy at an angle where my husband could see the TV while still getting the full effect of my yelling long before anyone was talking about feng shui.
She goes on to discuss how she was shocked the first time she visited Rome and couldn't find Spaghetti-Os on the menu.
Come on. Roseanne, you had enough money to buy a town with ex-hubby Tom Arnold.
Monday, March 15, 2004
Whither Innuendo?
Local free satire mag LA Innuendo made a splash this year when it launched with its "Worst of LA" issue... but things have been a little too quiet from the publication as of late.
So much so that the LA Innuendo website is still promoting its October 2003 issue, the last one in print. So I wrote the site's editors and asked, "Whattup?"
Here's the reply:
Thanks for writing.
Our new issue is due out next week as a matter o’ fact. Check the website for pickup locations.
Best,
Richard Rushfield
There ya have it. Richard serves as editor, along with Stacey Grenrock-Woods. Keep your eyes peeled for the new ish.
Rate-A-Restaurant, #34 in a series
Restaurant: The Hat
Location: 491 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
Type of restaurant: Deli
They stipulated: Cash only
What we ordered: Pastrami Dip Sandwiches, Fries and a Diet Coke
High point: Mmmmm pastrami.
Low point: Too. Much. Food. Okay, too much food is not a bad thing right? But, this is why most people in America are overweight. Upon seeing our big sandwiches, Mike and I quickly decided to share one and take the other home. We ordered a small order of fries and they supersized it. Not good if you are watching your girlish figure.
Overall impression: I really like the place. It had a fifties diner vibe and was very clean. Each order came in a paper bag with their cool logo and you help yourself with the paper plates and the huge selection of mustards and other fixins. The pastrami was good (thinly sliced and tender) although Katz Deli's pastrami (thicker with more flavor) is still my favorite.
Chance we will go back: Yes and we'll bring back more friends to share the food with.
Location: 491 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
Type of restaurant: Deli
They stipulated: Cash only
What we ordered: Pastrami Dip Sandwiches, Fries and a Diet Coke
High point: Mmmmm pastrami.
Low point: Too. Much. Food. Okay, too much food is not a bad thing right? But, this is why most people in America are overweight. Upon seeing our big sandwiches, Mike and I quickly decided to share one and take the other home. We ordered a small order of fries and they supersized it. Not good if you are watching your girlish figure.
Overall impression: I really like the place. It had a fifties diner vibe and was very clean. Each order came in a paper bag with their cool logo and you help yourself with the paper plates and the huge selection of mustards and other fixins. The pastrami was good (thinly sliced and tender) although Katz Deli's pastrami (thicker with more flavor) is still my favorite.
Chance we will go back: Yes and we'll bring back more friends to share the food with.
...And This Is Why We'll Never Own a Home in Southern California
Pessimistic? Perhaps. But Maria and I are still recovering after our bid wasn't accepted for a beautiful home in Pasadena.
We first saw it on Saturday, and immediately knew it was right for us. 1910 Craftsman, completely redone, with a beautiful, huge yard in the back and views of the mountains. We immediately made our bid, $5,000 over asking price.
To sweeten the offer, Maria baked cookies and we wrote a letter detailing how much we loved the place. (We even brought cookies over to the seller's neighbor, Frankie, who we had met when scoping out the house on Saturday. Frankie kept his fingers crossed for us.)
Alas, eight other people loved the place too. Even though the house hadn't even been put on the market yet, the owners received nine bids by Sunday afternoon!
Later that evening, we got the call we didn't want to get. Alas, the seller's broker said we did everything right -- the cookies and letter were a nice touch -- but someone had bid $67,000 over the asking price!!!
Whaaaa? Obviously we couldn't compete with that. And I can't be too upset -- hell, how can you blame the owners? That's a sweet deal, and more than double what they paid for the house just four years ago!
Welcome to the housing market in Southern California.
We first saw it on Saturday, and immediately knew it was right for us. 1910 Craftsman, completely redone, with a beautiful, huge yard in the back and views of the mountains. We immediately made our bid, $5,000 over asking price.
To sweeten the offer, Maria baked cookies and we wrote a letter detailing how much we loved the place. (We even brought cookies over to the seller's neighbor, Frankie, who we had met when scoping out the house on Saturday. Frankie kept his fingers crossed for us.)
Alas, eight other people loved the place too. Even though the house hadn't even been put on the market yet, the owners received nine bids by Sunday afternoon!
Later that evening, we got the call we didn't want to get. Alas, the seller's broker said we did everything right -- the cookies and letter were a nice touch -- but someone had bid $67,000 over the asking price!!!
Whaaaa? Obviously we couldn't compete with that. And I can't be too upset -- hell, how can you blame the owners? That's a sweet deal, and more than double what they paid for the house just four years ago!
Welcome to the housing market in Southern California.
Sunday, March 14, 2004
Better Than Fine
Next time you're downtown, make sure you check out the classic Fine Arts Building. Constructed in 1927, the building's tiled walls -- the work of Ernet A. Batchelder -- are legendary. It's one of those buildings that will make you fall in love with downtown.
Cecilia Rasmussen writes about it today in her L.A. Times column "L.A. Then and Now." Read it here.
Good Enough for the TV Museum, Good Enough for You
Every year, TV Guide produces a cover feature it calls "The Best Show on TV You're Not Watching." It's usually a high-quality series that is beloved by critics, but hasn't resonated with viewers and is likely to be canceled. I'll be shocked, shocked if TV Guide doesn't pick Fox's "Arrested Development" this year.
Hands down, "Arrested Development" was the best show to hit the airwaves this fall. (Yes, better than "The Mullets.") Its biting, deadpan humor and unique look (the show is shot entirely on hand-held digital video) looks like nothing you've ever seen. And the cast is incredible, including Jeffrey Tambor, Will Arnett, David Cross and even, believe it or not, Jason Bateman.
The Museum of Television & Radio gets it. The organization included "Arrested Development" among the series and TV figures honored at this year's William S. Paley Television Festival.
The annual event features casts and producers from classic TV series are reunited on stage, reminiscing about their show and taking questions from a moderator and the audience.
But this year -- the festival's 21st -- the focus was mostly on the new, as nights were devoted to shows such as "Joan of Arcadia," "The OC," "The Wire" and "Trading Spaces." ("Arrested Development" repped the only comedy included in the mix.) The Paley festival also included evenings with Angela Lansbury, William Shatner and "Gilligan's Island" creator Sherwood Schwartz.
Maria and I headed to the Directors' Guild theater (on Sunset Blvd.) on March 11 to attend the "Arrested Development" session. Museum officals noted that the evening was among the first to be sold out -- proof that the "Arrested Development" audience may be small, but it's fiercely loyal.
Just two days remain before the Paley Festival wraps up: The cast of "Smallville" will congregate on March 15, while perhaps the cast and crew of "Carnivale" -- which rounds out the fest on March 16 -- will explain just what their surreal show is all about.
Friday, March 12, 2004
The Cult of Volkswagen
Attention fellow VW owners: If you're looking for a repair shop, I've found a wonderful one on the east side.
Jomag VW Repair
2808 Rowena Avenue, Los Angeles
323-661-9304
Mauricio, the owner, is trustworthy and knows everything there is to know about VWs. I've been taking my car to him for years and he's always been straight and honest with me. The mechanics that work for him are all nice and hard-working.
He never replaces any part that I don't need replaced. If I take my car for an oil change at the Jiffy Lube and they suggest a service, I then take it to Mauricio and he tells me the real deal.
Last week, he changed my car battery (which was still under warranty) and insisted that I not pay him until he finds how much money I'm getting back from the manufacturer.
A week and a couple of phone calls (from me to him) have passed and he's still not worried about getting paid -- even though the battery rep hasn't gotten back to him on my refund. Very calmly, he told me not to worry about it and won't let me pay until he finds out the exact amount.
That's the kind of mechanic a girl's lucky to have. If I ever switch cars, there is a high probability I'll get another VW -- After all, I know I have a trusty mechanic watching out for me.
Jomag VW Repair
2808 Rowena Avenue, Los Angeles
323-661-9304
Mauricio, the owner, is trustworthy and knows everything there is to know about VWs. I've been taking my car to him for years and he's always been straight and honest with me. The mechanics that work for him are all nice and hard-working.
He never replaces any part that I don't need replaced. If I take my car for an oil change at the Jiffy Lube and they suggest a service, I then take it to Mauricio and he tells me the real deal.
Last week, he changed my car battery (which was still under warranty) and insisted that I not pay him until he finds how much money I'm getting back from the manufacturer.
A week and a couple of phone calls (from me to him) have passed and he's still not worried about getting paid -- even though the battery rep hasn't gotten back to him on my refund. Very calmly, he told me not to worry about it and won't let me pay until he finds out the exact amount.
That's the kind of mechanic a girl's lucky to have. If I ever switch cars, there is a high probability I'll get another VW -- After all, I know I have a trusty mechanic watching out for me.
Fun Fact 'O' The Day
As you're stuck on the freeway tonight, ponder this little gem from the L.A. Downtown News:
There are more than 9.5 million vehicles registered in the metropolitan Los Angeles area. Only 9 nations in the world, besides the U.S., have more cars within the entire country than L.A.: the UK, France, Germany, Canada, Italy, Spain, Japan, Brazil and Russia.
There are more than 9.5 million vehicles registered in the metropolitan Los Angeles area. Only 9 nations in the world, besides the U.S., have more cars within the entire country than L.A.: the UK, France, Germany, Canada, Italy, Spain, Japan, Brazil and Russia.
Thursday, March 11, 2004
Staff Laffs at Stewart Stumble
Jon Stewart threw out a little Variety humor on Wednesday night's The Daily Show. (And if you're not watching "The Daily Show" these days... I just can't help you anymore. I'm sorry.)
Toward the beginning of the show Stewart reported how the heartland can't get enough of "The Passion of The Christ." To illustrate his point, Stewart pointed to a fake Variety front page, complete with the faux headline "Hix Pick Crucifix Flick." (A play on the most famous Variety headline of all-time, 1935's "Sticks Nix Hick Pix.")
The joke fell flat -- let's face it, most of America has never seen a copy of Variety and isn't aware of our unique "slanguage." Reacting to the lukewarm response, he added, "You would find that hilarious -- if you worked for Variety!"
I'll vouch for him there -- Several of us caught it last night and loved the mention. (It's in the zeitgeist: "Saturday Night Live" also featured a Variety gag last week.)
Fuel for Thought
With price for gas in L.A. and vicinity still out of control, I thought it might be time to check in with LosAngelesGasPrices.com and see just how expensive things have gotten.
Indeed, according to the site -- which depends on site visitors to report on where they recently filled their tank, and how much they spent -- only one gas station in the region is offering up regular unleaded at less than $2 a gallon.
Site contributor "Mr. Pink" paid $1.99/gallon at R2 Bros. in San Dimas (located at Arrow Highway and San Dimas) on Thursday at 10 a.m.
The second-cheapest location, meanwhile, is a little closer: The Shell station at 11423 Ohio Ave. in West Los Angeles is selling regular unleaded at $2.00/gallon. And the Mobil at Glenoaks and Olive in Burbank is down to $2.01/gallon.
On the flip side, the site reports that the Shell at Van Nuys and Magnolia in Sherman Oaks is currently the most expensive, at $2.39/gallon (although I swear I've seen it even pricier in Beverly Hills and Los Feliz).
Happy pumping!
MacArthur Park: The Reality Show
Visiting MacArthur Park? (Where the motto is, "Only 13 shootings, 202 robberies and 544 major assaults so far this year!") Then smile-- it's likely you're on camera.
"Idol"-izing
I didn't want to get sucked in. But I did, once again. Yes, I've been watching the third season of Fox's American Idol. I haven't yet got Maria on board -- she's still not sold on getting back into the old "AI" habit. But trust me. She'll come around.
The performers aren't quite up to the level of the show's first two seasons. And I'm gonna slap Ryan Seacrest if he keeps trying to shove his new signature sign-off -- "Seacrest... OUT!" -- down our throats. But the show has still got its simple, pleasant, addictive quality. No outlandish twists here. No back-stabbing, double-crossing contestants trying to win $1 million. Just a cynic-free (I know, shocking!) talent contest, the kind of thing that harkens back to the early days of TV.
Now that the show has officially found its 12 finalists, Fox threw an "Idol" party Wednesday night at Pearl -- the club formerly known as Dorscia, which was formerly known as Moomba, which was formerly known as Luna Park -- in West Hollywood.
Judge Simon Cowell, "Idol" finalists, Fox execs and others showed up. Also in attendance: Cast members from "That '70s Show," new drama "Wonderfalls" and the best show you're not watching (and by the way, you better start watching, or I'm not gonna listen the next time you whine about how TV sucks), "Arrested Development."
I also spotted a cameraman from the Fox station in Honolulu. This year's "American Idol" has two finalists from Hawaii. You have no idea how big that is inside the state. Karaoke was big in Hawaii loooong before you ever heard of it here on the mainland. Hell, when I was a kid even the neighborhood McDonald's boasted a karaoke machine. Local singers become statewide stars. So these two girls, now that they're getting national attention, are superstars.
***
Meanwhile, the person I was most excited to meet Wednesday night wasn't even from "Idol" or any other Fox show. Nope. I was thrilled to finally meet Fred Bronson, the man who writes "Chart Beat" for Billboard magazine. As a huge chart aficionado from childhood on (not only did I track the Billboard Hot 100, I created my own Top 40 chart, where I ranked my top songs of the week for years), to meet Bronson and talk about the Billboard charts was too cool.
I told Bronson, who also writes "The Billboard Book of Number One Hits," that my enthusiasm for the Hot 100 chart waned after its methodology changed. Indeed, you look at the chart now, and it doesn't tell you much of anything -- some of the songs are country, others are hardcore hiphop, some get no radio airplay whatsoever, and plenty others aren't available as commercially released singles. It's kind of a mess, in my opinion, and doesn't reflect what could be considered the hottest songs in the country. (Even "American Top 40," which once relied on the Hot 100 for its chart, no longer does.) Fred assured me that it's a common complaint, and that tweaks may be on the way.
The performers aren't quite up to the level of the show's first two seasons. And I'm gonna slap Ryan Seacrest if he keeps trying to shove his new signature sign-off -- "Seacrest... OUT!" -- down our throats. But the show has still got its simple, pleasant, addictive quality. No outlandish twists here. No back-stabbing, double-crossing contestants trying to win $1 million. Just a cynic-free (I know, shocking!) talent contest, the kind of thing that harkens back to the early days of TV.
Now that the show has officially found its 12 finalists, Fox threw an "Idol" party Wednesday night at Pearl -- the club formerly known as Dorscia, which was formerly known as Moomba, which was formerly known as Luna Park -- in West Hollywood.
Judge Simon Cowell, "Idol" finalists, Fox execs and others showed up. Also in attendance: Cast members from "That '70s Show," new drama "Wonderfalls" and the best show you're not watching (and by the way, you better start watching, or I'm not gonna listen the next time you whine about how TV sucks), "Arrested Development."
I also spotted a cameraman from the Fox station in Honolulu. This year's "American Idol" has two finalists from Hawaii. You have no idea how big that is inside the state. Karaoke was big in Hawaii loooong before you ever heard of it here on the mainland. Hell, when I was a kid even the neighborhood McDonald's boasted a karaoke machine. Local singers become statewide stars. So these two girls, now that they're getting national attention, are superstars.
***
Meanwhile, the person I was most excited to meet Wednesday night wasn't even from "Idol" or any other Fox show. Nope. I was thrilled to finally meet Fred Bronson, the man who writes "Chart Beat" for Billboard magazine. As a huge chart aficionado from childhood on (not only did I track the Billboard Hot 100, I created my own Top 40 chart, where I ranked my top songs of the week for years), to meet Bronson and talk about the Billboard charts was too cool.
I told Bronson, who also writes "The Billboard Book of Number One Hits," that my enthusiasm for the Hot 100 chart waned after its methodology changed. Indeed, you look at the chart now, and it doesn't tell you much of anything -- some of the songs are country, others are hardcore hiphop, some get no radio airplay whatsoever, and plenty others aren't available as commercially released singles. It's kind of a mess, in my opinion, and doesn't reflect what could be considered the hottest songs in the country. (Even "American Top 40," which once relied on the Hot 100 for its chart, no longer does.) Fred assured me that it's a common complaint, and that tweaks may be on the way.
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
New York Worst
Remember when the media -- including the New York Post -- piled on CBS and MTV for triggering the downfall of civilization by showing a glimpse of Janet Jackson's nipple?
The Post published a far more damaging photo on its front page this morning. The issue, available at L.A. newsstands, reprints a shot of NYU student Diana Chien comitting suicide by jumping from an apartment building.
I won't reprint it here -- why, that would be hypocritical of me while calling the Post hypocritical in the same breath! -- but Gothamist has a copy of the cover and some interesting analysis here.
The Post published a far more damaging photo on its front page this morning. The issue, available at L.A. newsstands, reprints a shot of NYU student Diana Chien comitting suicide by jumping from an apartment building.
I won't reprint it here -- why, that would be hypocritical of me while calling the Post hypocritical in the same breath! -- but Gothamist has a copy of the cover and some interesting analysis here.
Tuesday, March 9, 2004
Hot Potato
How quickly did CBS turn on Martha Stewart? Almost after the verdict was read, Mike told me that Viacom dropped her show off its stations.
As I get ready for work, my routine has been to flip between "Martha Stewart Living" on KCAL-9 and "Home To Go" on HGTV. Monday morning came and the DirecTV listings still had the Martha show at 9am. To my dismay, "The Wayne Brady Show" came on.
I am pissed off.
Meanwhile, the latest:
Martha Talks features a letter from Martha, who vows to appeal and fight to clear her name
Save Martha is staging a "National Save Martha Day" on March 13
Wall Street Journal on why the Martha trial was ridiculous to begin with
Monday, March 8, 2004
Cigarettes, Chocolate Milk and Elton John
Scored tix last week from KCRW to see Rufus Wainwright at UCLA's Royce Hall. Maria and I headed up there Thursday night, plopped down $7 for parking and got there in time to see opening act Shannon McNally right at 8 p.m.
McNally, who also sings backup with Rufus on tour, has a pleasant alt country twang to her and pulled off a pretty solid set. After a nice and short intermission, Rufus hopped on stage and gave a satisfying show.
Rufus' music is large, ambitious and larger than life -- much like the singer himself, who throws much of his flamboyant, slightly goofy persona into his show. As a matter of fact, in this case it might almost be too much of a good thing. Memo to Rufus: Less talk, more rock. (Or, I suppose in his case, more folkish-rock).
Surprise guest Elton John provided one of the night's highlights, hopping on stage to duet with Rufus on "Greek Song" (see pics here).
And for a second time in a week, I spotted Rufus papa and folk singer Loudon Wainwright III. This time, Loudon was in the audience with a little girl. Rufus i.d.'ed the girl as his little 9-year-old sister, who had come to see him perform on stage for the first time.
Spalding Gray was 62
Sad to see, as many had feared, that Spalding Gray was found dead on Sunday.
The monologuist and actor, who has a history of depression and attempted suicide, had been missing since January. Gray's body was found in the East River near Brooklyn.
I'd seen Gray perform twice, once at the Alex Theater in Glendale and once at UCLA. The New York Times describes his performances: "Almost always seated behind a simple desk, with a glass of water, a microphone and some notes, Mr. Gray practiced the art of storytelling with a quiet mania, alternating between conspiratorial whispers and antic screams as he roamed through topics large and small...The monologues were also, for the record, usually painfully funny."
The monologuist and actor, who has a history of depression and attempted suicide, had been missing since January. Gray's body was found in the East River near Brooklyn.
I'd seen Gray perform twice, once at the Alex Theater in Glendale and once at UCLA. The New York Times describes his performances: "Almost always seated behind a simple desk, with a glass of water, a microphone and some notes, Mr. Gray practiced the art of storytelling with a quiet mania, alternating between conspiratorial whispers and antic screams as he roamed through topics large and small...The monologues were also, for the record, usually painfully funny."
Sunday, March 7, 2004
Lucky We Live California?
Fact of the day, thanks to the L.A. Times: For all of California, the minimum household income needed to afford a median-priced home was $94,020 in January, versus $39,090 for the nation, according to the California Assn. of Realtors.
The paper says consumers' inability to buy homes may trigger slower gains in home prices (and sales) -- but don't expect to see a turnaround in prices. This ain't the early 90s, "when massive aerospace layoffs and overbuilding resulted in prices plunging 23% in Los Angeles County."
The paper says consumers' inability to buy homes may trigger slower gains in home prices (and sales) -- but don't expect to see a turnaround in prices. This ain't the early 90s, "when massive aerospace layoffs and overbuilding resulted in prices plunging 23% in Los Angeles County."
She Did It!
After months of prep, Jess hit the ground this morning and made it through 26 miles of the Los Angeles Marathon in just five and a half hours! Yay Jess!
Pretty good, especially considering how hot it was outside -- I'm even sporting a slight sunburn now.
Jess jogged the entire way and seemed just fine when we found her at the end of the race. Several of us hit miles 14 and 20 to cheer her on. (A gallery of shots can be found here.)
We also got to encounter the mysterious marathon racer Coatman. Dressed in a ripped up jean jacket, a mask and ribbons, and carrying an empty bottle of wine, "Coatman" was one of the more interesting racers we found. Coat told us he'd been doing the marathon for 23 years. Other joggers dressed like clowns, Batman and Robin, and several Supermans.
I'm still amazed at how many people take part every year. Just running to get to the finish line in time to snap a shot of Jess put both Jeff and me out of breath.
Overall, David Kirui led the men, with a time of 2 hours, 13 minutes, 40 seconds, while Tatyana Pozdnyakova led the women, finishing 2:30:16. Wow. Congrats to everyone! (Including you, Coatman, wherever you are.)
Saturday, March 6, 2004
Happy Birthday to Us!
Franklin Avenue is one!
Actually, Franklin Avenue turned one on March 4. But we were too busy to notice. (Then yesterday, the dentist yanked out one of my teeth, and I was too busy to notice anything.)
Thanks for visiting our little blog. It's been fun. More rants and raves about our lives in Los Angeles in the year to come.
Friday, March 5, 2004
Shamrock Update
I did it. I had one.
Did what?
Fine. You got me. I had two.
Whaaaa?! Didn't you just post your Shamrock Shake dilemma two days ago? Man, it sure didn't take you long to crack!
I know, but the comments below were pretty damn unanimous: Get the damn shake. It's not ice cream, and God won't be angry.
True, true, but Brian at LACOMfidential had come up with a pretty good solution: A Shamrock Shake recipe, to prepare after Lent.
Ahh, toying with my Catholic guilt! But indeed, the Shamrock Shake became more of a necessity over the past two days because of my teeth. On Thursday, I went to the ortho for my monthly braces tightening (yes, for those of you who don't know, I'm currently sportin' a metalmouth. Laff all you want, but you're gonna be scared of my beauty when it's all over) -- and after that painful ordeal, decided to treat myself to one.
Yum. It was just as I remembered. Minty, green and delicious.
Today, meanwhile, I had to get a tooth pulled at the dentist. As part of my ortho treatment, the tooth, despite being perfectly healthy, had to go.
When the dental assistant suggested that I eat ice cream this afternoon to help ease the pain of a now-gaping hole in my mouth, I had to laugh. This indeed was The Last Temptation of Mike: ice cream. So I compromised. As several readers noted in the comments down below, McDonald's shakes aren't technically ice cream.
But I promise, that's it. (At least, until my teeth and gums start hurting tomorrow. Then all bets are off.)
Could It Be... A Speedo That Cures Cancer!
Latest fun press release to come across my desk:
You're Invited to the Speedo International News Conference
TUESDAY MARCH 9, 2004
Simultaneous launches in * New York * London * Sydney *
Speedo Revolutionizes Swimwear
Ground breaking technology that will impact the world of sportswear.
Photo Op: Revolutionary Swimwear on Olympic Champions: World record holder Michael Phelps, Olympic Medalists Jenny Thompson, Lenny Krayzelburg and Amanda Beard
Pressure, 110 University Place, (12th and 13th Streets)
New York City
RSVP - LIMITED SPACE
212.688.XXXX
Alert the media! Oh wait, they did. Any ideas on the "Ground breaking technology that will impact the world of sportswear"? This is my guess, and it's only a guess: A Speedo that doubles as a Segway Human Transporter. Wow.
You're Invited to the Speedo International News Conference
TUESDAY MARCH 9, 2004
Simultaneous launches in * New York * London * Sydney *
Speedo Revolutionizes Swimwear
Ground breaking technology that will impact the world of sportswear.
Photo Op: Revolutionary Swimwear on Olympic Champions: World record holder Michael Phelps, Olympic Medalists Jenny Thompson, Lenny Krayzelburg and Amanda Beard
Pressure, 110 University Place, (12th and 13th Streets)
New York City
RSVP - LIMITED SPACE
212.688.XXXX
Alert the media! Oh wait, they did. Any ideas on the "Ground breaking technology that will impact the world of sportswear"? This is my guess, and it's only a guess: A Speedo that doubles as a Segway Human Transporter. Wow.
No Magers Impact
I kinda like new KCBS-2 anchor Paul Magers -- he's got a strong, appealing baritone voice and a sense of humor.
After a recent story about Guvnah Arnold and ex-Gov Gray Davis trading quips at a Showtime movie screening, Magers listed a few other places he thought the duo might show up next -- voicing something we've all been thinking, What's up with Gray pretending to pal around with the man who stole his job?
But Magers, who signed a rich contract to join KCBS and move from Minneapolis (where he was a superstar), has had no impact on the station's news ratings so far.
As a matter of fact, KCBS' major newscasts actually posted declines this February sweeps -- Mager's first book at the station.
Viewers may also be tiring of Jillian Barberie: Ratings for KTTV-Fox 11's "Good Day L.A." were way down, dropping from first place in the market last February to fourth place this time out.
Overall, KABC-7 still wins every major newscast battle in which it competes, except 11 p.m., where KNBC-4 is No. 1. Meanwhile, people just weren't watching as much news at 10 p.m. KTTV won that battle, but all three stations (KTTV, KTLA-5 and KCAL-9) suffered double-digit declines.
More details on the local February sweeps here.
After a recent story about Guvnah Arnold and ex-Gov Gray Davis trading quips at a Showtime movie screening, Magers listed a few other places he thought the duo might show up next -- voicing something we've all been thinking, What's up with Gray pretending to pal around with the man who stole his job?
But Magers, who signed a rich contract to join KCBS and move from Minneapolis (where he was a superstar), has had no impact on the station's news ratings so far.
As a matter of fact, KCBS' major newscasts actually posted declines this February sweeps -- Mager's first book at the station.
Viewers may also be tiring of Jillian Barberie: Ratings for KTTV-Fox 11's "Good Day L.A." were way down, dropping from first place in the market last February to fourth place this time out.
Overall, KABC-7 still wins every major newscast battle in which it competes, except 11 p.m., where KNBC-4 is No. 1. Meanwhile, people just weren't watching as much news at 10 p.m. KTTV won that battle, but all three stations (KTTV, KTLA-5 and KCAL-9) suffered double-digit declines.
More details on the local February sweeps here.
Wednesday, March 3, 2004
Forget About 9/11... It's 2/1 That's Changed Us
Ultimately, the events of Sept. 11 had little long-term impact on the entertainment biz. Oh, a movie or two (including the Guv's "Collateral Damage") were pushed back, and perhaps shows like ABC's "Threat Matrix" were put into development... but it didn't take long for irony to return, for superficial news to return, and for celebrity worship to return.
The "events of Feb. 1," meanwhile, have sent a chill through all media. Networks are re-editing shows previously given the greenlight to air. Radio congloms are threatening "zero tolerance." NBC is preventing us from getting to see an 80-year-old woman's breast on screen.
And in some of the goofiest nonsense I've seen yet, Walt Disney World shelved a six-foot statue of Mickey Mouse dressed like Janet Jackson in her "Rhythm Nation" music video. Whaaaaaa?
Also: ABC darkened a sex scene on Tuesday night's "NYPD Blue" for viewers in the Central and Mountain time zone, where the show airs at 9 p.m.
And now KCRW has axed Sandra Tsing Loh's weekly radio commentary after an editing flub allowed the "f" bomb to go over the airwaves. Honest mistake -- but apparently KCRW has a tougher "zero tolerance" policy than Clear Channel, which let slide a screw up on the first day of Ryan Seacrest's KIIS-FM radio show, when somehow two callers were able to say profanities on the air. (Although, I also wonder if this wasn't just a convenient excuse by KCRW to get rid of Loh.)
Apparently the world will not forget 2/1... the day Janet Jackson's right boob changed us all.
(Thanks to Joe, Denise and L.A. Observed for pointing these examples out.)
The "events of Feb. 1," meanwhile, have sent a chill through all media. Networks are re-editing shows previously given the greenlight to air. Radio congloms are threatening "zero tolerance." NBC is preventing us from getting to see an 80-year-old woman's breast on screen.
And in some of the goofiest nonsense I've seen yet, Walt Disney World shelved a six-foot statue of Mickey Mouse dressed like Janet Jackson in her "Rhythm Nation" music video. Whaaaaaa?
Also: ABC darkened a sex scene on Tuesday night's "NYPD Blue" for viewers in the Central and Mountain time zone, where the show airs at 9 p.m.
And now KCRW has axed Sandra Tsing Loh's weekly radio commentary after an editing flub allowed the "f" bomb to go over the airwaves. Honest mistake -- but apparently KCRW has a tougher "zero tolerance" policy than Clear Channel, which let slide a screw up on the first day of Ryan Seacrest's KIIS-FM radio show, when somehow two callers were able to say profanities on the air. (Although, I also wonder if this wasn't just a convenient excuse by KCRW to get rid of Loh.)
Apparently the world will not forget 2/1... the day Janet Jackson's right boob changed us all.
(Thanks to Joe, Denise and L.A. Observed for pointing these examples out.)
Stroke of Genius
Cool to see The Strokes on this week's cover of Newsweek. Didn't even realize they had a new CD out.
Oh wait. Never mind.
Shamrock My World
Driving by a McDonald's the other day -- I've avoided the place for years, other than a recent stop in the Philippines to order an ube sundae -- I noticed a sign out front heralding the return of the Shamrock Shake.
I flashed back to childhood. The Shamrock Shake was a once a year McDonald's treat, a minty respite from the tyranny of the fast food joint's usual vanilla, chocolate and strawberry shake choices. Even as a child, I would go out of my way for just about any ususual flavor of a usual treat (hence my obsession with the once-a-year holiday roll out of Mint M&Ms) -- so without fail, I'd suck down a few Shamrock Shakes every March.
But I haven't had a Shamrock Shake in probably 15 years. McDonald's discontinued the St. Patrick's Day promotion long ago, around the same time I discontinued my visits there. Obviously, my tastes have changed through the years. But I may have to return now.
The dilemma? Like a good Catholic boy, I've given up ice cream for Lent. (I know, pretty drastic. Especially considering we still have some Magnolia-brand ube ice cream in the freezer.)
Now, as far as I can tell, technically, McDonald's shakes are not made from ice cream (In-N-Out's shakes, on the other hand, are). Have I found a loop hole? What's the consensus out there? As you know, by the time Lent's over, the Shamrock Shake and St. Patrick's Day will be long gone. Damn you, McDonald's!
Tuesday, March 2, 2004
Vote Super Tuesday
When you head to the polling booth today, remember:
Yes on Prop 64, which forces Gov. Schwarzenegger to star in three "Kindergarten Cop" direct-to-video sequels in order to help pay down the California deficit.
Yes on Prop 71, which bans any actor under the age of 30 from producing and starring in their own reality TV series.
And No on Prop 74, which would allow Ryan Seacrest to launch his own music career.
God Bless America!
Yes on Prop 64, which forces Gov. Schwarzenegger to star in three "Kindergarten Cop" direct-to-video sequels in order to help pay down the California deficit.
Yes on Prop 71, which bans any actor under the age of 30 from producing and starring in their own reality TV series.
And No on Prop 74, which would allow Ryan Seacrest to launch his own music career.
God Bless America!
Monday, March 1, 2004
Minor Celeb Sightings
Yeah, it was worth checking out the Independent Spirit Awards after party on Saturday to see celebs like Maggie Gyllenhaal. But as I mentioned below, the real thrill was getting to see Rodney Bingenheimer schooling Rosanna Arquette on how to DJ. Apparently there's more to it than just shoving a CD inside a player.
But Rodney on the Roq was just one of several minor celebrities we spotted over the weekend. To boot:
:: Loudon Wainwright III, checking out CDs (his own?) at the Grove's Barnes & Noble. The world mostly knows him as a folk singer, but younger folks got to know him via the sadly underappreciated Fox comedy "Undeclared."
::James Avery staring at a building while taking a walk in our Los Feliz neighborhood. You know, "Fresh Prince of Bel Air's" Philip Banks. Times must be rough for Uncle Phil; what would Aunt Vivian and son Carlton say about him venturing so far east?
But Rodney on the Roq was just one of several minor celebrities we spotted over the weekend. To boot:
:: Loudon Wainwright III, checking out CDs (his own?) at the Grove's Barnes & Noble. The world mostly knows him as a folk singer, but younger folks got to know him via the sadly underappreciated Fox comedy "Undeclared."
::James Avery staring at a building while taking a walk in our Los Feliz neighborhood. You know, "Fresh Prince of Bel Air's" Philip Banks. Times must be rough for Uncle Phil; what would Aunt Vivian and son Carlton say about him venturing so far east?
Arbitronzzzz
Los Angeles radio listeners to Los Angeles radio stations: "Yawn."
Latest Los Angeles Arbitron Ratings are in, and -- at least in the 12+ numbers, little has changed.
These are just the first phase of the Winter 2004 numbers, but so far the trends point to stability.
KPWR "Power 106" is still No. 1 (4.7 share), followed by talker KFI (4.5), alternative KROQ (4.2), Regional Mexican outlet KSCA (4.1) and adult contemporary KOST (3.8).
But while KOST shines, fellow Clear Channel adult-skewing outlets KBIG and KYSR ("Star 98.7") continue to struggle in the overall ratings. Their strength lies in women 25-54, so you may not see any changes there. But KBIG and Star 98.7, along with Infinity's KCBS-FM ("Arrow 93.1") and Clear Channel's KHHT-FM ("Hot 92.3") continue to be at the center of most format change rumors.
Meanwhile, jury's still out on KDLD/KDLE Indie 103.1. In its first ratings book, the numbers were virtually the same as the old "103.1 KDL" dance format. But give it time.
Latest Los Angeles Arbitron Ratings are in, and -- at least in the 12+ numbers, little has changed.
These are just the first phase of the Winter 2004 numbers, but so far the trends point to stability.
KPWR "Power 106" is still No. 1 (4.7 share), followed by talker KFI (4.5), alternative KROQ (4.2), Regional Mexican outlet KSCA (4.1) and adult contemporary KOST (3.8).
But while KOST shines, fellow Clear Channel adult-skewing outlets KBIG and KYSR ("Star 98.7") continue to struggle in the overall ratings. Their strength lies in women 25-54, so you may not see any changes there. But KBIG and Star 98.7, along with Infinity's KCBS-FM ("Arrow 93.1") and Clear Channel's KHHT-FM ("Hot 92.3") continue to be at the center of most format change rumors.
Meanwhile, jury's still out on KDLD/KDLE Indie 103.1. In its first ratings book, the numbers were virtually the same as the old "103.1 KDL" dance format. But give it time.
Hybrid Cars, Anyone?
Enjoying paying that $2.20 at the pumps the past few days? Well, then, good. You're gonna love this: According to the L.A. Times, high gas prices aren't going away anytime soon.
Sez the paper: In the last week, the price of self-serve regular jumped more than 20 cents to an average of $2.152 per gallon in Los Angeles County, according to the Automobile Club of Southern California. That's not the record; according to Auto Club statistics, that was $2.18 a gallon, set in March 2003.
This year's increase — 51 cents per gallon so far — is being blamed on a spate of malfunctions that reduced gasoline output at several of the state's refineries. That gave a swift kick to prices that were already riding higher because of the escalating cost of crude oil, the base ingredient in gasoline.
Sez the paper: In the last week, the price of self-serve regular jumped more than 20 cents to an average of $2.152 per gallon in Los Angeles County, according to the Automobile Club of Southern California. That's not the record; according to Auto Club statistics, that was $2.18 a gallon, set in March 2003.
This year's increase — 51 cents per gallon so far — is being blamed on a spate of malfunctions that reduced gasoline output at several of the state's refineries. That gave a swift kick to prices that were already riding higher because of the escalating cost of crude oil, the base ingredient in gasoline.
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