Thanksgiving is great for many reasons - food, football, family, etc. - but traveling is not one of them.
For some reason, many are under the impression that Thanksgiving is like spring break - a week long holiday you still feel entitled to even though you're not in school any more.
But it's not. It's a day, folks. Just the one day.
(Some people - the "chosen ones," I call them - have the Friday after off as well, but even a long weekend does not a week-long spring break make.)
That's what makes traveling around Thanksgiving the absolute worst. Trying to cram in all the celebrating and togetherness in such a short period of time stresses people out.
For example, here is a series of texts from my friend K. flying across the country to see his family...for a day.
Text 1: "The guy sitting next to me on the plane has a playlist of all remixed Gloria Estefan dance music and it's blaring from his headphones. One of us is not going to make it to Atlanta."
Text 2: "The mother sitting across from me just told her daughter that she was going to beat her down if she didn't leave her alone. Where am i?"
Text 3: "Oh man, she just tossed her hair and it smacked me in the head. It's about to get bananas in here."
Text 4: "Sadly the mom is wearing a UT sweatshirt."
Now, while it pains me that the crazy mom is also a Longhorn - just because UT is awesome, doesn't mean it doesn't produce some crazies - it proves the point that traveling during Thanksgiving is just too much to handle. And remixed Gloria Estefan really doesn't help.
So don't go anywhere this year. Stay at home and, if you're family isn't close by, just call them. If they give you a hard time, say you wanted to save money, you'll see them at Christmas, and they can always send leftovers via FedEx.
Next, figure out how to give yourself a spring break. I can't be only one who misses that, right?
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Thanksgiving travel, I say "No!"
Wishing you a smothered and covered Thanksgiving (if necessary)
IHOP – open 24 hours, all locations Ryan’s Grill, Buffet, & Bakery – 10:45 a.m. – 7 p.m., 4260 Dowlen Road, MCM Elegante’ Hotel – 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., 2355 IH 10 South, There’s probably a few other places that will be open so, if something goes wrong when cooking, adhere to this piece of sage Yankee wisdom: “Fuggetaboutit.” All will not be lost when something goes wrong, and we’ve all experienced enough holiday-meal-time chaos to know that no menu ever works out exactly like you think it will. So this year, whether it’s a juicy, golden turkey or a crispy, golden waffle, realize that it’s not what you eat, but who you eat with that matters. This Thanksgiving, enjoy your family regardless of what else happens. Then tomorrow, you can ground your child for skateboarding in the house.
Here’s a hypothetical Thanksgiving scenario: While the turkey’s in the oven your child swishes through the kitchen on his/her skateboard, grabbing a hand towel that was underneath a bowl of mashed potatoes.
As the bowl falls you lunge for it, hip checking the knobs on the stove by accident, turning the heat up on all burners and the oven.
You narrowly miss the potatoes as they crash to the floor and, because you’re busy cleaning the mess, don’t notice that the rest of the food is on fire until the smoke alarm goes off, right about the time your family comes into the kitchen asking when dinner will be ready.
Those of you with children know this could totally happen, so if your kitchen seems cursed tomorrow, think about calling it a day and heading to one of these places where an un-burnt Thanksgiving meal will promptly be served.
Waffle House – open 24 hours
All locations will be open and ready to serve you a Thanksgiving plate both smothered and/or covered – two very good reasons to give thanks.
Thanksgiving is a traditional American holiday, but every day is a great day for pancakes as far as I’m concerned, even of the international variety.
They’ll have turkey, stuffing, pies, etc. – enough for seconds. The best part? Unless you forget your wallet, dish duty's on them.
For something a little fancier, head to the Elegante’ for brunch. The word on the street is that, in the past, the chefs have left patrons breathless from both the variety and quantity of food.
Monday, November 24, 2008
'Twilight' - the condensed version
In case your ears were constantly ringing this weekend with what sounded like $70 million of squealing of teenage girls, allow me to explain why: Twilight opened. The film version of the vampire/teenage/romance novel killed at the box office, which doesn't surprise me.
In August, I covered the release of Breaking Dawn - at a crazy packed Barnes and Noble with teens and tweens from all over the Mont - and all the kids were, like, OMG! over the film version already.
I saw the film last night - theater was sold out - and I have to say that it wasn't that bad. It wasn't great, but didn't focus on what I thought were the book's weaknesses, namely the two main characters dissecting EVERY SINGLE ONE of their feelings for approximately 250 pages.
WARNING: Spoilers Below
For those of you who can't be bothered with undead teenage angst allow me to provide you a condensed version of Twilight.
Bella Swan: I'm going to live with my dad, Charlie, in Washington. He doesn't talk much.
Charlie: I don't talk much.
New High School Kids: We like you. Be our friend.
Bella: Who are those pretty white people who don't talk to anyone?
High School Kids: The Cullens. Their rich and pretty. We hate them. We want to be them. That one's Edward.
Bella: Why weren't you in Biology?
Edward: I wasn't in Biology.
Bella: Thanks for saving my life when that van almost killed me.
Edward: I didn't. I wasn't. I can't stay away from you.
Bella: You're a vampire. Let's stare at each other for a while.
Edward: You smell good. I want you. I can't have you. I'll kill you. I love you.
Bella: I'm not creeped out at all that you sneak in my room at night and watch me sleep - even though I should be because that's weird.
Edward: Come play baseball with my family.
Bella: Baseball is cool.
James: Is she a snack?
Edward: Don't touch her.
James: 'Cause I think she's a snack. I'm just saying. I could use a snack.
Edward: Run away Bella.
Bella: Don't hurt my mom!
James: I won't, but only if you let me have you as a snack. It's just that I haven't eaten much all day and am kinda hypoglycemic, so if I could drink your blood, that'd be swell.
Edward: I'll save you.
Bella: I love you.
Edward: Let's go to prom. My hair kicks ass.
THE END
Friday, November 21, 2008
Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Bring on the Faire!
When I was a kid, I loved the Disney version of Robin Hood. In fact, I even liked the Kevin Costner version. Though, upon review as an adult many things about it make no sense, especially Costner's questionable accent that's definitely not British, and is more like a cross between something from Australia and New Jersey.
Anyway, I'm just saying that medieval things are cool, I enjoy some swashbuckling on occasion, and am on board with any excuse to chow down on a turkey leg, which is why I can't wait to head west to Plantersville for the Texas Renaissance Festival this Saturday.
Now, before you immediately assume that I'm a "nerd" who still "lives with his mom" and obsesses over Lord of the Rings I'll have you know there are several reasons why the Renaissance Festival is my Awesome Idea for the Weekend.
1) Jousting - The closest we get to this in Beaumont is when traffic on Dowlen Road is heavy. Just think, wouldn't it be nice shove a large pole through the radiator of that car that makes an unprotected left in front of you without signaling?
2) It's the biggest - The festival in Texas is the world's largest - over 370,000 people attended last year - because Texas rules at everything even recreating the 14th century.
3) Mini-road trip - Plantersville is a couple hours west, and Saturday's weather is supposed to be fantastic, so you can escape without spending too much money.
4) Check out the locals - I'm not saying that the people who dress up to work/attend the Renaissance Festival are weird. I mean, I'm not going in costume. But I will say that if you're averse to beards, tights, earrings, swords, satin, tattoos, beards, and sub-par dental work than you might feel uncomfortable. For the rest of us, it's the best people-watching event ever.
5) Get married - What, you haven't always dreamed of saying your nuptials in a full suit of armor standing next to a band of merry Lords and Ladies playing lutes and drinking ale? OK fine, neither have I. But it's kinda cool to know the option exists, right?
I could go on, but I think you get where I'm coming from. The Renaissance Festival will be awesome, so look for me there. I'll be the one walking around yelling, "Prepare for the fight scene!"
Thursday, November 20, 2008
The case of the missing art
Raise your hand if you're a fan of Netflix. (I imagine many of you actually sitting your cubicle with your hands raised right now, which makes me chuckle.)
Local video stores in Southeast Texas do what they can to stock the independent films and documentaries that don't come to all two of our movie theaters, but many titles fall through the cracks.
One of those titles is the fascinating documentary called The Rape of Europa.
The title figuratively refers to the Nazi plundering of priceless works of art throughout Europe during World War II, and since a number of famous artists have come from this area, it's the kind of subject a well-rounded Southeast Texan would eat up.
Plus, it's also very well done. Personal stories of family treasures both lost and found are told alongside big-picture history. It's impossible to watch this film without thinking that any of the cinematic tales could stand alone as their own compelling movies.
Some may think that people in this part of Texas don't care about culture, and that's one of the worst misconceptions I've ever heard because, for a small city, Beaumont patronizes the arts in an ambitious way. I mean, we're never going to have New York's MoMa, or even Houston's MFA, but what we do have is a group of locals dedicated to both the artistic and cultural literacy of this community - our community.
So, I think you should all rent this documentary. Besides, it's like watching a real life treasure hunt unfold, and who doesn't love a good treasure hunt, right?
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Hope! Change! Sweet Potato Fries!
I know the election season is over but, while I have your diverted attention from whatever it is you do for a living, I'd like to take this moment to campaign for something in which I truly believe: sweet potato fries.
In a more subdued way, my column today essentially said that we should take a stand by rejecting the unhealthy pairing of candied yams/sweet potatoes and traditional Thanksgiving dinner. We should make our voices heard and request, nay demand, that sweet potato fries be added to the Turkey Day spread. Who will march with me?!
(Can you tell I'm a little bored, politically?)
Anyway, I'm just saying that sweet potato fries are tasty, crunchy, and way less fattening than the normal mass of coagulating marshmallow nonsense.
Here's a quick and easy recipe from the South Beach Diet Quick & Easy Cookbook, supplied to me by my secretly epicurean editor Tim Kelly. He advocates baking them to cut down on the fat even more.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries
2 medium sweet potatoes, cleaned and sliced lengthwise into 8 pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon paprika
Toss all the ingredients in a bowl till the fries are coated. Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray. Spread the fries in a single layer and bake until lightly browned on the bottom, about 15 minutes. Turn and bake until the bottoms are browned and potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes more.
So this Thanksgiving, be a real maverick and vote for change on your table. And tell Joe the Plumber to sit with the kids, because that's what happens when you're a whiner.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Nice Robot...
Like everyone in Southeast Texas, I'd like my own robot/personal assistant. You know, someone to do laundry, clean my apartment and play the "search-and-destroy" coupon-clipping game for me. But, alas, I am the only employee I can afford on my payroll and, while it makes my staff meetings fly by, it means more work for me.
But I never thought that longing for my own Rosie Jetson could be irresponsible. Thanks to Wendell Wallach and Colin Allen, coauthors of Moral Machines: Teaching Robots Right from Wrong, I now know differently.
They write that, "Humanity has started down the path of robots and computers making decisions without direct human oversight...The technological challenge of ensuring that these machines respect ethical principles is upon us."
Yes, "robot oversight" is key or else we could be looking at a "$700 billion robot bailout" somewhere down the road.
According to Wallach and Allen if we follow these six simple steps, we'll not have to worry about a scenario involving a robot uprising.
1. Keep them in stupid situations. The authors say that computers/robots can't discern the consequences of their actions in advance, so they'll all be reassigned to FEMA.
2. Do not place dangerous weapons in the hands of computers and robots. I think we all learned this lesson from The Terminator. Thanks Arnold!
3. Program them with rules such as the Ten Commandments or Asimov's Laws for Robots. But we should anticipate a Supreme Court battle when an Alabama judge is compelled to post them in his courtroom for all robots to see.
4. Program robots with a principle such as the "greatest good for the greatest number" or the Golden Rule. Once this is done, all robots should be kept away from the United States Congress so as not to revert to previous states.
5. Educate a robot in the same way as a child, so that the robot will learn and develop sensitivity to the actions that people consider to be right and wrong. Look for enaction of "No Robot Left Behind."
6. Build human-like faculties such as empathy, emotions, and the capacity to read non-verbal social cues into the robots. This is so people don't confuse the robots with either John Kerry or Dick Cheney.
Wallach and Allen say that, "It is just a matter of time until a computer or robot makes a decision that will cause a human disaster." So, while we all struggle to make ends meet in this current economic storm, let's be sure to contemplate a kinder, gentler future for robots. It's the only way to ward off a possible Robot Apocalypse.
Also, be wary of anybody asking if you've seen either John or Sarah Connor. I'm just saying...
Shout out to fellow reporter Blair Ortmann for alerting me to this book. She rules.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Good Riddance, TRL
Last night, MTV officially said goodbye to "Total Request Live" - formerly one of its most popular programs - and teens everywhere are left to cope with the lack of an opportunity to scream, jump up and down, and wave posters on national television.
Yet, while many people will miss TRL, I'm not one of them, and not just because I have a job that precludes me from watching any sort of daytime television.
TRL was the beginning of the end of MTV as far as I'm concerned. As mentioned before, I'm no fan of the current MTV and often hark back to the days of yore when I could turn it on, enjoy the music, and occasionally glance up to catch a visual.
Sure, MTV had other programs interspersed between music videos, but they had clear themes. TRL tried to give kids too much stuff (It's a talk show! It's a countdown show! It's a belly dancing show!). Still, it became popular because the hyper-scheduled TV program was the only sort of "variety" show aimed at teens, and kids love something they can claim as their own.
But MTV shouldn't have been so distracted by one show's success that it started making all its programming that way. It should have remembered that the generation from the 80's and early 90's that made the network what it was, basically a radio you could see.
You may be one of those people who longed to be screaming in the audience the day "Puffy" changed his name to "Diddy," but it doesn't matter now. TRL is gone now, and MTV still has crappy programming, and I've decided to move on, so you should too.
Just case you want to dwell, though, here's another reason to say, "Good riddance!" to TRL: it launched the career of Carson Daly.
See...NOW, you're with me.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Keep your pants on
These days it seems every month, week or day is associated with some sort of cause and November is no exception. In November, it's time to face one of the most heinous of world problems, namely Pantslessness.
I recently received a press release proclaiming November as "Pants Awareness Month." It was sent to me by San Francisco-based retailer Courdarounds as a promotional gig for their pants which, I must admit, if I lived in a different climate I'd totally buy.
In the release they say "Every autumn, millions of American men tragically go pantless while their fellow citizens turn a blind eye. This is the terrible affliction known as 'Pantlessteria' -- more commonly referred to as 'Sansapant Syndrome,' 'Trousernot', or 'Nay Slacks disease'."
Clever, and not entirely unbelievable, I thought. Just last weekend I was at dinner in Houston with my parents when our waitress was distracted by a scantily dressed woman walking by outside. The waitress looked at me and said, "Don't you think she's cold?"
Clearly women sometimes forget to cover themselves from the waste down so who are we to say that men could not be afflicted by this same wanton carelessness? Sure, this might be a fake issue, invented to sell really comfortable-looking corduroy pants I have no business wearing in Southeast Texas, but still...it could be real.
Which is why we men should make sure to adhere to the following checklist before leaving the house:
1) Check for wallet. If your hand grazes buttock, you're not wearing pants.
2) Check your fly. If your hand grazes crotch, you're not wearing pants.
3) Check for keys. If your hand grazes hip bone (which is connected to the leg bone, BTW) you're not wearing pants.
Following these three simple steps can help us eradicate this nonexistent problem before it never starts. Who's with me?
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Crockett Street Redux
If you're like me, you start planning your weekend around 10:30 Wednesday morning. Sometimes earlier. Don't get me wrong, I love my job, but who isn't ready to get out of the office after the computer screen/fluorescent light cocktail makes you feel drunk without the perks.
For those of us in Southeast Texas, finding great places to go out can be tough, especially with you have to drive everywhere and there's a lack of cabs and/or shuttles to help fend off DWI's.
That's why it's great that Crockett Street is coming back after it's "hiatus." Let's face it, downtown Beaumont is never going to be like 6th Street in Austin, because the city of Beaumont will never be anything like Austin, or another city where young people flock. And that's fine.
Crockett Street is what we've got to work with folks, so instead of sitting around complaining about not having any place to go out, let's patronize the bars and clubs we've got. It's like the wise ancients once said, "If you can't be with the one you love, love the one you're with."
So, click here to see the restaurants and bars that Crockett Street has to offer.
And people, if you're drunk don't drive, text, make phone calls, hit on twins, dance on a bar, or pick a fight with a large person. Just don't.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Cement your Bond
Thunderball was the first Bond movie I saw. I watched it on TV with my dad in 1985 - 20 years after its release - and am sure that as the credits rolled I promptly begged to immediately go see "Q" and get fitted for my first rocket pack. I'm sure my dad laughed and tousled my hair, and I'm sure I replied back with something like, "No really. Let's go. Now works for me."
(Also in Thunderball, specifically the scene where he straps on the jet pack, is when Sean Connery delivers one of the most awesome Bond quips ever. "No well dressed man should be without one," he says...SO. COOL.)
Like most of my media-saturated generation, I can't get enough of the movies, and Bond movies are no exception, which is why I can't wait for Quantum of Solace to open this weekend. Even though the character of 007 has changed in its 46 years of cinematic evolution, one thing it's managed to do consistently is represent the cultural time in which each film is released. Whether during Cold War or the height of the tech boom, Bond movies tend to be broad litmus tests for society's emotional outlook. Plus, cool gadgets and beautiful women are timeless.
And while I think we'd all like to forget that Never Say Never Again and License to Kill ever happened - and especially Denise Richards' "portrayal" of a nuclear physicist named Christmas in The World is Not Enough - lame Bond movies are still great for different reasons.
So, obviously, I've got my reasons for loving Bond...what are yours?
On Friday, fearless espionage reporter Humberto Martinez will have more on Bond.
Oh and Pop...I'm still waiting for that jet pack. FYI.
CLICK HERE for Quantum of Solace tickets and show times in Southeast Texas.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Chicken for breakfast?
At the risk of contributing to America's obesity epidemic, it's time for me to fess up to my own fast food kryptonite - breakfast sandwiches.
I love 'em and, in order to not succumb to the Sirens' call of the drive-through during my morning commute, I have to eat something before walking out the door.
Right after Hurricane Ike, my features editor told me I endeared myself to her forever when I brought her a Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Biscuit one morning.
Like most Southeast Texans who did not evacuate, she hadn't had a decent meal, smelled kind of funny and looked like she could sleep for several days, but her face lit up like the Fourth of July when the aroma hit her face.
She savored every bite, holding it close to her bosom and walking around the newsroom - the envy of all.
Since the glorious return of electricity, fast food joints are as busy as ever. Last week the McDonald's on Dowlen Rd. by Parkdale Mall sported an impressive line wrapped around the parking lot at 8:30 a.m.
Mickey D's is, of course, the creator of the aforementioned breakfast sandwich. Its Egg McMuffin has been going strong since 1972.
The McMuffin's creator, Herb Peterson (right), passed away this past March at the ripe old age of 89, which makes you wonder how many of his creations he ate in his lifetime.
Side note: The Egg McMuffin is actually one of the healthier breakfast items on the golden arches menu with only 300 calories and 12 grams of fat.Lately though, I've been noticing a new trend in the start-your-morning-with-a-coronary food group, namely that of chicken biscuit sandwiches.
What-a-Burger and McDonald's have chicken biscuits, as does Chick-fil-a (sort of a no brainer for them), and Jack-in-the-Box just added one to their all-day breakfast menu.
Now, the thought of fried chicken, plus buttery, syrupy, waffle goodness sounds like a winning combination, unless you're trying to win any healthy heart contests.
But when did fried chicken become a worldwide breakfast sandwich option? And what's next? Buffalo wings for breakfast?
Can you imagine saying to someone, "I'm going to stop by Hooters on the way to work and grab a quick dozen wings to start off the day?''
Next thing you know, blue cheese dressing will be on the syrup aisle and, if that happens, I won't have any trouble kicking this cholesterol-raising habit of mine.
Ed. Note: This is the first of my new food column, "Check Please." It will run in the print edition of The Beaumont Enterprise every Wednesday, but I'll be posting it online Tuesday afternoon.
Geez, Louise...
Zec Effron will play Ren (Kevin Bacon) in an upcoming remake of Footloose, from the same man who directed all three High School Musical movies.
I think I speak for my entire generation when I say...NOT. COOL.
Brother can you spare a dollar?
I mean, I get it. Times are tough. I understand. I've cut back spending. I'm trying to save money for the holidays. I'm searching the couch cushions for loose change.
But for two guys in Beaumont, it's seriously bottom-of-the-barrel time: they robbed a Family Dollar Store last night, making off with all the cash in one of the registers. No word on how much they got away with, but I'm guessing it was about $107 all in one's.
Now, if you log on to Bloomberg, Yahoo Finance, or any other such site, you'll notice they're all stopping shy of just putting up a picture of a crazy dude wearing nothing but a sign that says "The End is Near!"
But the end isn't near folks.
Are we in a massive financial pickle? Yes. Should we be running up our credit cards when we can't afford to pay them off? No. Even though I "immediately qualified for a spectacular low interest loan," should I have put a down payment on that condo on the moon? Probably not the best investment.
The holidays might be lean this year, but we'll all weather this fiscal storm, and should try to do so without robbing ONE OF THE ONLY STORES THAT SELLS STUFF WE CAN AFFORD!
I'm just saying...
Monday, November 10, 2008
Our Circuit City is safe(-ish)!
Don't worry, Southeast Texas. Circuit City in the Mont will stay open!
The electronics retailer on Dowlen Road who gave us the trademarked Advantage Protection Plan and One-Price Promise - trademarked, I'm sure, so the Department of Defense won't try to use the names for any future nation-building invasions - filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection today to fend off creditors.
In a letter on the Circuit City website, CEO Jim Marcum said the company is losing market share to Best Buy, Wal-Mart and Amazon.com. However he didn't address my constant suggestions to save money by not printing receipts long/wide enough to use as wallpaper.
The company will still honor all returns, exchanges and gift cards so no need to fret if that applies to you. Unless you're also a stockholder and just noticed CC dropped 56 percent to 11 cents a share. In that case, you're entitled to a wee bit o' fretting.
The Enterprise's fearless business/consumer reporter Heather Nolan has more on this story.
Overheard in the Mont
It's time to introduce a new segment here at MEvBLOG called "Overheard in the Mont." For those who don't get the obviousness of the concept, it's where I eavesdrop on people's conversations, hear something cool about what's going on, and share it with you.
Like this morning at Rao's, for instance. I overheard the owner of Posh Baby (5955 Phelan Blvd.) talking about a 1-day sale this Friday and thought that would be of particular interest because, if it's one thing we've got a lot of here in Southeast Texas, it's moms.
So, all you sassy ladies in your SUV's/vans should go there and get a jump on your holiday shopping. I know the economy isn't great right now, but things are on SALE, and nobody loves one of those more than a SUV-driving, mom...am I right?
CLICK HERE for directions to Posh Baby
Friday, November 7, 2008
The little dog did what, now?
Tonight , through next Tuesday evening, the Lamar University theater department is presenting the play "The Little Dog Laughed," by Douglas Carter Beane. I have not seen this play, but I just read about it on Wikipedia, and now feel I can speak on it with confidence.
Apparently it's about an overprotective Hollywood agent who gets nervous when her "leading-man" client starts falls for a gay hustler even though he has a girlfriend. I assume TMZ "outs" him in the third act and, in the finale, he tells his story on "Ellen."
It's kind of a gutsy choice for Beaumont, a city where the only gay club has no sign and is in a building resembling a Soviet bomb shelter. Nevertheless, it looks funny and, even if you're conservative, might be worth buying a ticket.
CLICK HERE for more information
Thursday, November 6, 2008
A Top 10 list for those about to rock...
Fellow Beaumont Enterprise rock 'n' roll geek Tammie Hodges and I recently realized we both turned 30 within a couple months of each other. To commemorate, in tomorrow's "Weekend" section, we share our favorite rock albums from as long as we’ve been alive (with a couple “honorable mentions” from before we were born).
We realize that you might disagree with our respective lists, and that's fine. Feel free to share your own, but without profanity because we don't want to slap a "Parental Advisory" sticker over the comments.
MATTHEW DANELO
1. Metallica – The Black Album (1991) This is the album that changed Metallica from a band for metal freaks into a band for music freaks.
2. Nirvana – Nevermind (1991) The band’s second album, with the breakout single “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” made them the grungy, unwilling voice of Generation X.
3. Pearl Jam – Ten (1990) Every song on this album is fantastic. The Seattle band’s debut ushered alternative rock into the mainstream.
4. Bruce Springsteen – Born in the U.S.A. (1984) Blue collar, Jersey rock and cold-war-fueled patriotism – a perfect soundtrack for the 80’s.
5. Back in Black – AC/DC (1980) The second highest-selling album of all time cemented AC/DC as one of the hardest rockin’ bands in the world with “You Shook Me All Night Long,” “Hells Bells” and the title track.
6. Guns N’ Roses – Appetite for Destruction (1987)
I was hooked from the moment I heard the sirens in “Welcome to the Jungle.”
7. Green Day – American Idiot (2004)
It follows in the footsteps of “Tommy” as a concept album defining generational angst, and is the best rock album of the new millennium.
8. Smashing Pumpkins – Siamese Dream (1993)
The first mainstream album to arrange alternative rock in an orchestral fashion is also the band’s best and most successful.
9. The Clash – London Calling (1980)
Modern punk wouldn’t be around without Britain’s The Clash and, especially, the title track from their third album.
10. Bon Jovi – Slippery When Wet (1986)
I don’t know anybody who doesn’t know the words to “Livin’ on a Prayer” and, frankly, I’m not sure that I want to.
Hon. Mention:
Tommy – The Who (1969)
Created not only the concept album, but also the rock opera. "Pinball Wizard" remains one of the greatest songs ever.
Never Mind the Bollocks… – Sex Pistols (1977)
Their only album pretty much created punk rock. Plus, "God Save the Queen" also took on a whole new meaning.
TAMMIE HODGES
1. Metallica – Metallica (The Black Album) (1991) The self-titled fifth album from the epitome of hard rock is by far the best album they have produced, and my all-time favorite. It includes hits such as “Enter Sandman” and “The Unforgiven,” just to name a few. I have remained an avid fan through the years, that is until “Load” set my loyalty lines aback.
2. AC/DC – Back in Black (1980) The Australian rockers’ decision to move on after the death of lead singer Bon Scott in 1980 was their best ever. “Back in Black”added vocalist Brian Johnson and produced some of their greatest hits, including “Hells Bells,” “You Shook Me All Night Long” and, of course, “Back in Black.”
3. Aerosmith – Get A Grip (1993) I’ve always been a huge fan of Aerosmith, but their 11th album, is by far my favorite of the bunch. Every song – my favorites being “Cryin’” and “Livin’ on the Edge” - made its way to my various mix tapes of the ‘90s. Today, you’ll find it on my iPod.
4. Pink Floyd – The Wall (1979) For this album, Pink Floyd went with a darker theme and followed the life of a fictitious character named “Pink.” This concept album’s depth and intrigue are what put it among my top 10. It includes their only single to hit No. 1 on the Billboard charts, “Another Brick in the Wall Part 2.”
5. Nirvana – Nevermind (1991) The Seattle-based grunge band’s second album gets a huge nod for introducing alternative rock to mainstream audiences. The video for the album’s first single, “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” remains my most memorable from a time when MTV actually played videos.
6. Pearl Jam – Ten (1991) Continuing the push of alternative music, and the days of flannel over t-shirts, Pearl Jam’s debut album dealt with darker topics, which was embraced by alternative fans worldwide.
7. Heart – Heart (1985) Heart’s self-titled 8th album earned the band it’s first No. 1 single, “These Dreams.” It's my favorite from Anne and Nancy by far.
8. Guns ‘N’ Roses - Appetite For Destruction (1987) Hard rockers Guns ‘N’ Roses’ debut album combined a little punk and blues-rock with a lot of heavy metal and hard rock.
9. Red Hot Chili Peppers – Blood, Sugar, Sex, Magik (1991) Oh, how I love the Chili Peppers, namely for this album - their best to date and, honestly, the only one I can usually remember. The first single from the album, “Give It Away,” picked up a Grammy while “Under the Bridge” and “Suck My Kiss” round out this great piece of rock history.
10. Prince – Purple Rain (1984) He’s a bit weird and definitely has some questionable wardrobe choices, but Prince is still a Hall of Famer for a reason, and 29 albums later, he’s still rockin'. Even if you’ve never been a fan, you have to give it to the man for the sound mixes on this album - a new concept for 1984.
Hon. Mention:
The Eagles – Hotel California (1976)
No explanation required, really.
Led Zeppelin - Led Zeppelin IV (1971)
“Black Dog”... “Rock And Roll” ... “Stairway to Heaven” - Need I say more?
Top Chef - The Mont
Being a features reporter is great because one day you cover how crude oil is used to make everyday household products and the next day you're waxing philosophically on "High School Musical 3" (actually quite the hotbed of Freudian nuance...who knew?). Still, it's always nice when I can return to familiar territory and cover one of my favorite topics - food.
For a story running next Wednesday, the same day as the season premiere of Bravo's "Top Chef" (spoiler alert!), I sat in on a timed cooking competition at a Lamar University culinary class and judged the students' food (but not them as people...well, maybe just a little bit).
Chef Charles Duit, a wonderful man who resembles a nice version of Harry Potter's Uncle Vernon, separated the eight students into two teams of four, gave them a tub of produce and some cube steaks, and told them they had an hour and a half to make a salad (w/ dressing) and an entree (w/ starch and veggie sides).
I love "Top Chef" because it combines two of my favorite things - food and competition - and the Lamar students, did not disappoint. I did my best Tom Colicchio impersonation, walking smugly around the kitchen saying things like, "OK...I hope that turns out for you," and "Hmmm...that's an interesting choice." Mostly the students ignored me, confident in their abilities - they're the ones holding the knives.
In the end, Maggie, Jarett, Mason, Lauren, Micah and Jessica performed brilliantly and created some dishes that, while not perfect, made me confident that the epicurean future of Southeast Texas is in good hands. Chef Duit, in all his benevolence, decided not to eliminate anyone from the class, which I suppose is the right thing to do.
Though, I have to admit, I was itching to put on my serious face (stern, yet compassionate) and say to one of them, "Please pack your knives and go." I do practice that in my mirror every day...you never know when Padma's going to call.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Now what?
Now that the election is over those of us in the media are (depending on your point of view) finished A) Keeping all of Obama's dirty secrets from the public, B) Unfairly wiping the floor with Obama and his family, and/or C) Conducting on-air interviews with holographic guests (beam me up CNN!). So, it's time to get back to the real business of journalism - finding a new story's life blood to fixate on and suck out.
Frankly, those of us in the newsroom are at a loss. Who should we play "Gotcha!" with now? Where's our new Sarah Palin? Who's the new Jeremiah Wright? How in the name of all that is holy did the Longhorns lose to Texas Tech last weekend - sorry...can't get over that one.
For the sake of the free press, I welcome any and all suggestions in the comments area (where leaving your thoughts will show that people other than my family read this blog, and ensure that I continue to receive a paycheck).
What's the next big thing? You tell me...
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Just do it
I'm one of those people who's of the opinion that if you don't vote, you don't have any right to complain. In 2004, a friend of mine didn't vote because he didn't like either Bush or Kerry - apparently they were both "too liberal" for his tastes - but he still complained for the next two years.
Finally, I demanded he renounce his citizenship, and a fight ensued where he threatened to move to Canada - which is something that a lot of people threaten, especially conservatives, and I don't think they realize that A) Canada is a socialist country so, you know, good luck with your conservative agenda there, and B) There's only two kinds of beer in Canada, and they both taste like beige water. (But you'd still drink one/both of them if you lived there, right?)
Even if you don't fall head over heels for one candidate, just vote. Not doing so is akin to scoffing at your freedom to choose from multiple beers, which I'm pretty sure is in the Constitution (Sam Adams was a founding father, you know).
CLICK HERE: For voting locations in Southeast Texas
Monday, November 3, 2008
Dance, Monkey!
I was in Bridge City, TX last Thursday evening, with Guiseppe the Photographer, working on a story about the continuing aftermath of Hurricane Ike.
For those of you who don't know, Bridge City is a blue-collar, Gulf Coast town hit hard by the storm. (For those of you who don't know what Hurricane Ike is - or how bad it was - put down Town & Country and pick up The Internet.)
Anyway, that's where I met Mickey the Monkey (left).
Mickey the Monkey belongs to Janice Cox and was formerly her late husband's monkey helper-friend. He was a quadriplegic who got Mickey from Helping Hands, an organization that trains monkeys to help the disabled who, in turn, provide the monkeys with good homes. It's monkeys helping people helping monkeys. Yes, that's their actual logo (right).
Micky is 24 years old - most monkeys like him live to be around 35 - and he lives with Janice and her current husband in a FEMA trailer, while their home is gutted and it looks like the house threw up all its contents across the front yard. (No more tequila for you, House!)
His hobbies include swinging around the trailer's front porch, hopping up and down, and begging for grape juice. He's also very protective of his new home, and is somewhat averse to the media, as you can see.
When asked if she evacuated from the hurricane with her husband, and the monkey, she replied, "Absolutely."
She then added, "We also took the rooster."
Guiseppe looked at me and said, "I love Bridge City."
It's the issues, stupid.
As I said in a previous post - and as the good people of Jefferson County showed on Sunday - EVERYONE IS READY FOR THE ELECTION TO BE OVER! Except for cable news, but people without souls don't count.
In just 48 hours, the nation can get back to overeating, buying more than it can afford, and watching Deal or No Deal.
But for now, many still have to vote, so here's a helpful series my features department wrote over the last month in an attempt to inform voters about the most-debated issues.
Economy
Energy
War in Iraq
Health Care
Because as much as we'd like to think the election is about how many times we can see Tina Fey play Sarah Palin on Saturday Night Live, it's actually about real stuff.
Let's be honest, though...Fey as Palin might be the best thing to come out of this election. I'm just saying...
Posts
