Simacia

wilderness

2010-02-23T22:26:00.001-08:00

I'm in it...
I feel like I need to rethink my entire strategy. I think I need to rethink my goals. I need new aspirations. I've always been better at just going, as opposed to going to a specific destination. Not that I have anything against destinations...

Some days are fine and great, but some days this sucks.

"What's your favourite subject?"

2009-01-01T21:57:00.000-08:00

This was the first thing Anna asked me when I met her, stepping out of Zig's into a warm, humid night in Sudbury. The street was less stifling than the club, but the atmosphere was On us, clinging like our wet-from-dancing-too-much clothing.

In another context I would have answered "sex," but she was referring to my camera. Without hesitation I told her "People. Always people, they're more fascinating than anything. I fuckin' hate landscapes..."

It's a lie, in fact. I don't hate shooting landscapes. The point was that there is far too much landscape photography in the media we are all exposed to. I suppose defining the point of some subjects and differentiating the relevance of them is the real thrust here, instead of just telling you what my favourites are.

It is possible to arbitrarily divide topics into mountains of little categories. Surely everybody does it, just for simplification? Without special consideration, here we go:
– People > Portrait, Random, Drinking Photos, Fashion, Art
– Landscape > Urban, Not Urban (this is by far the larger category)
– Nature > Animals, Plants (> flowers, not flowers), Other (last one was creative eh?)
– Objects > I really haven't sub-divided this category. I suppose I don't shoot enough
objects to make it worth distinguishing.
There they are. By all means if you think of something else, mention it so I can fit it in somewhere or make space for it.

Since I defamed landscapes to Anna, I suppose I rather Owe them and should comment on why so many of them do, in fact, Suck.
A landscape necessarily encompasses a certain area. I think of an open field as the smallest unit of landscape. To shoot the facade of a building, or even the full building itself, is not usually a landscape so much as a single subject. Landscapes must present us manouevering room and show us how to navigate an area.

Too often there are landscapes that are too wide open, lacking any point of interest to anchor us. Inversely, the larger scale of a proper landscape often obscures any point of interest intended to anchor us, making it smaller, degrandizing it, stealing it's impact.

So What? Who Cares? Here's the crux of landscapes: The shooter was There. There is no denying the fact the geography one is surrounded by has an impact on us all. This is the key reason people will tend to shoot landscapes. They are shooting to make a reminder of this place where they stood that was instilling something into that moment lived by the shooter - emotion probably.

You and I weren't there, of course. In a vast majority of instances, we never will be there. That's okay still, if the shooter simply wants to use the image to illustrate a point of fact like "that's the field and on the side here is the cliff that we pushed the car over to destroy the evidence... see the scorch marks on the rock?"

People love to show you a 3x5 though, and expect you to Feeeel the grandeur and magnificence of standing wind-whipped and freezing on Kilimanjaro or wading wave-lashed throught the spray and foam into the stormy Pacific. It happens so much in fact, that I wonder how people Fail to correct this misconception of what an image can do.

An image is worth a thousand words, but here's a tip: try Writing a thousand words with it, so that the 3x5 is just a secondary. The words will become the picture itself and the picture will simply be Article A in evidence that states "yeah, it happened just like that!"

So there it is, most landscapes are only for the person who shot them. Exceptions abound. I do love to turn 180º and contradict. There are some truly magnificent landscape photographies out there that really will turn your head and make you want to be somewhere else. I find that at least half of these are quite exotic, if not unique 'scapes. It really requires Something unusual to draw you, without which you've got nothing but your memory of a place.

In contrast, we have the subject of people. In my reckoning the biggest difference is that a landscape is where we act. Perhaps it is the noun in our photographic experience. People are what we Interact with though, they are the verb. People can differ vastly amongst each other, yet faces and bodies are invariably and immediately something we can identify with. We know instinctively how to interpret them because we do it every day, all our lives. We are attuned to each nuance of expression in a face and we can admire each movement - each Moment of the body. It is easier for us to extrapolate the Feeling of a human image. We're more or less hardwired to do so anyway; I rather think we would have to work Not to do it.

I don't expect anybody to have the same purpose in photography as I do. Yet most people do have the same purpose: to communicate something, to elicit a reaction - a human reaction.

(I have tried showing photographs to several of my pets in my life; dogs, cats, birds, rats and iguanas. What they gravitate to, well I haven't been able to define any specific pattern for their predilections. My iguana seemed to react best to specific colour palettes, though my dog(s) don't see in colour, I'm told).

4 a.m.

2008-12-15T11:55:00.000-08:00

Pausing for the last cigarette of the evening, in an open doorway, it seems that the rain is sulfuric. In this town nobody would argue. It's more a trick of the light, I think, the sodium lamps put the yellow-orange cast across everything and glitter through each droplet - and when something is cold enough it will feel hot.

The rainwater slithers over the grey-black titanium ice - titanic ice, seeking it's level. From directly above, it looks like an aerial shot of an overflowing river spilling across the plain of a vast, unknown geography. From above, the snowbanks are like mountains rising up from and overlooking the floodplains and rivers... If one can imagine themselves several thousand feet above ground level

This notion has occurred to me before. It always leaves me feeling solitary. Witness to something that may or may not be aesthetic, but is invariably inconsequential. Perhaps this keeps things in perspective, but I'd rather be doing something relevant than simply walking home...

to Framboise, somewhere in America

2008-12-07T04:49:00.000-08:00

I suppose I'm thanking you, albeit in a backhanded way, by writing this. Your words describe somethig very close to what I was feeling. At some point. I wouldn't tell you or anybody else the specifics anyway, and that would be so besides the point.

It's never exact, is it? It seems to me that perhaps nobody ever feels Exactly the same thing, between two or more of us. Sometimes that makes it easier, doesn't it? Not quite like being alone. Then again it's also a reminder that we will always be just that. After all...

If that's all we have to connect on, then it's happened spectacularly. And quietly.

I come back over and again for the sentiments you sublimate to writing that make me feel - at least someone else has been through similar... if not the same

well anyway, thanks. You express yourself with a unique eloquence

measure for measure...

2008-11-18T21:37:00.000-08:00

I was informed tonight that there is no such thing as a "half" of beer. The reference being to pints. There is, I am told, no such thing as a half-pint - "it doesn't exist."
Strange how the nomenclature has existed for so long, then, but other examples are out there.

Oh thanks, though, for enlightening me, with disdain I might add - Disdain in your Voice, to Me - that I was apparently deluded (and smelled bad?) beyond reason. Where, oh Where did such an idiotic notion come from?

"it doesn't exist."
*sigh*

For the edification of those who may come across the term, there IS in fact such a thing as a half-pint. The reference differentiates between an imperial pint which is 20 oz as compared to an american pint which is 16 oz. The "half" is roughly 10 oz. I say roughly because I'm not dead sure it's British in origin, though that's where I think I picked the phrase up: "Give us a half of Spitfire, Jimmy." Whatever.

I am deeply concerned about the state of the dram, incidentally. It may not have existed for a little while now. I'm fairly sure the jigger and nip are still intact, though the latter hasn't been heard around here for a while. In fact, god help us, there may be no 'ounce' at all soon and then we're totally screwed! How awkward would it be to stroll into a bar and ask for a "30 of Jack," (30 ml being the rough equivalent of an ounce (standard shot).

Hey, I Like metric. Metric is Good, but there are a few last bastions where the old ways should be maintained. Not for the sake of resisting change. Not even because of "tradition," no.

In the case of alcohol, I would suggest that the salient reason for leaving metric behind is that there is a separate culture. Bar culture, Cafe culture, Club culture - as well as stylish parties everywhere, are connected. Their existance is for taking us out of the daily grind of life. The more encompassing their embrace, the more successful they will be.

Standardization is an incredible technology, but the name says it all "Standard." Yes, Imperial measures are a form of standardization, nobody is arguing that. The fact is that they are uncommon enough to not Feel standard. That is why a jigger of vodka, a measure of cointreau and a splash of lime still make a Cosmo so great. Otherwise it's just booze swished together.

User defined values, of course. For some, cocktails are just a way to get drunk. Personally, though, I want the fun. If you agree, then head to a bar for a nice glass of liquor and tell the barkeep to 'pony up.'

when drinking, don't write anything important...

2008-11-15T12:12:00.000-08:00

1. your girlfriend ups αnd leaves you for his ex. you think what?
You're cancelled bitch. Next. No, no enmity, fuck it that's life man...

2. your girlfriend buys you flowers. you do what?
kiss her cheek. s'cute, but I don't really do flowers..

3. your ex wants to hook back up. you do what?
whisper a thank you to whatever gods are listening and try to be the best boyfriend I can be

4. your parents tell you you're moving far away from where you live now. you do what?
Wish them the best. Save money to visit at some point - sun surf and sand, baby, knowing' mah 'rents!

5. has someone ever called you beautiful?
'mongst other things..

6. you are offered α career in the spotlight. you'll be as famous as Britney. (or as she ONCE was.)
I'll be bigger than Britney, baby

8. you're driving down the road and a cat runs out in front of you. do you swirve so you don't hit it?
I wasn't supposed to be behind the wheel anyway. Dead cat. But I'd stop to see it didn't suffer.

9. your opposite sex best friend is starting to act like she likes you more than a friend. do you go along with it?
mmm.. no.

10. you're fighting alot lately. you and your bf/gf. you want to end it, but you're not sure how. what would you do?
assure them that I still care, but for both our sakes it IS over. I'm sorry, it's beyond my control. It's beyond my control... It's beyond my control

11. who were you with friday night?
Marc, Rikki, and my lovely customers. Then Cait, Evan, Adric and another person

12. what woke you up this morning?
my alarm. then a phone. then another alarm. then ...

13. where are you?
living room. West End Sudbury. Canada.

14. is tomorrow going to be a good day?
Yes it is. I will see friends I haven't seen in a while

15. did you kiss or hug anyone today?
YUP! it's not really a succesful day if one or the other didn't happen...

16. when's the last time you cried?
the end of my last relationship. Surprised I didn't cry More, really...

17. what were you doing last night?
"Major Chillin'" with Cait and Evan

18. what were you doing at midnight last night?
see above. Drinking beer. Talking abbout the blues. Listening to music of the 80s

19. what were you doing at 2:00am?
Same as question 18 but instead of talking about the blues, I was taking pictures

20. ever thrown up from a roller coaster or an amusement park?
Noo. I'm made of tougher stuff. I love the feeling of motion and sudden changes in my vector

21. what's on your mind RIGHT NOW?
lyrics of the song that's playing; friends; pizza...

22. where would you like to live?
Koln, Caymans, Tokyo, Seoul, Moscow (briefly), Montreal, San Antonio, Rio de Janeiro, Montevideo, Paris, London, Jakarta or Hong Kong, PRAGUE!, Budapest, Pretoria, Arkansas, Munchen, Helsinki, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Sophia, anywhere in Antarctica for a brief spell, Fiji, Barcelona, Vancouver, Los Angeles, New York, Las Vegas, Monaco, Tenerife, Madagascar, Cairo, Jerusalem, Tripoli, Portugal, Macchu Picchu, Atlantis --- not in that order, and the list has been shortened Severely...

23. what kind of home would you like when you grow up?
If I haven't grown up yet I never will! But I don't need a mansion. Something just big enough for me, a partner and six occasional guests...

24. what do you want to be when you grow up?
Too many things to think of! Fireman, Astronaut, Spy, President of the world, International relief worker, Actor, Rockstar?, truck driver, Lifeguard, bartender, PR agent, Consultant
and more!

25. where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Hate this question! I can't account for that just yet. But not here.

26. what is the longest you have gone without checking your myspace?
Don't use it.

27. who was the last person that sent you a message?
Ms. Cox, a writer from New Jersey. Interesting young lady...

28. are you friends with this person?
Officially yes. New friends. We aim to read each other's writing. (Hope she's not disappointed).

29. how often do you log in to myspcace?
Never. Daily on other sites, though

30. what do you like to do when you're in your car?
Drive! Pure aesthetics! music is mandatory. Speak without words to the passengers who understand me

31. do you like candy necklaces?
Yeah! I love 'em. I buy them for other people and judge them according to whether they accept them or not - or eat them or not, etc... s'true. I wonder who wrote this and chose candy necklaces? They really hit the button with that one

32. when was the last time you fell over or ran into something?
Three hours ago, in fact. Ran into the corner of the bar, but failed to spill any of the drinks I was toting! Damn I'm good!

33. do you listen to music every day?
If I go six hours without music, you can bet i was asleep

34. why'd your last relationship fail?
Circumstance, like any other. Nevermind. Shut up.

35. what was the last thing you ate?
Smoked salmon wrapped around a cheese stick with cream cheese and capers! Mmmmmm! about to have pizza though

36. is it the weekend?
oh yes, yes it is.

37. what are you doing tonight?
Work. Home. Wine. Write. Movie. Bed

38. what's your favorite soda?
I'm giving up soft drinks cuz they lie to me

39. ever moved?
What kind of idiot question is that? Of course, who Hasn't moved? Pfff

40. favorite sport to watch?
Soccer. Just read the blogs from 2006 and it will be obvious

41. what do you want right now?
To kill a half of Jack, and immediately board a plane for Arkansas or Vancouver (or Tokyo) and not have to sleep in the next two months. To have the faith that I could always come back, even though I wouldn't.

42. are you listening to music right now?
Of course! Always. What's a life without it?

43. do you like summer break or christmas break better?
Xmass just breaks my stride when I was finding my pace. Summer lasts and it's hotter.

44. what was the last tv show you watched?
I haven't the foggiest, to be honest. It's TV, who really cares?

45. last reason you threw up?
Drinking, naturally. The only reason I ever actually throw up. Too much - or at least, too quick..

46. best place to eat?
My House!!! Damn straight.

47. what time is it?
2:13 a.m.

48. what should you be doing right now?
Celebrating with someone I love spending time with

49. what are your pet peeves?
Stupidity. Bad drivers (variant of stupidity). People who get in my way. STupidity...

50. what song makes you cry?
No song does that currently, though there have been several over the years - starting with Paint It Black... lol

51. what song makes you happy?
Sooo many, but #1 is probably still Solsbury Hill by Peter Gabriel

52. what do you listen to before you go to bed?
Music, Duhhhhh,... What Kind of music? differs by the day

53. what does your mp3/ipod player have in it right now?
It has about 20 Gb of music. Couldn't start to name it all. All styles, all eras. I'm eclectic.

54. if you were a crayon what color would you be?
I would be a special colour called "Charlie"

55. what makes you happy?
Love, Life, Music and Media, Friends, Family, Lovers, Animals, Good Books, Compliments, Connections (understanding other people), Motion, Scotch and Wine, Continuance...

57. what is your favorite state?
Control.

58. if you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
I can't say, it might not help me get there...

59. what is the farthest from home you have ever been?
5600+ km...

Your name plus "y"?
Jasony - Charliey - Simacy ... "Heyyyou!" lol

Two feelings at the moment?
Warm, Still

What are you listening to right now?
Teenage Riot (in a public station, gonna fight, tear it up in a hypernation...)
Sonic Youth!

What are you craving to have right now?
Sex, Travel and Chocolate with Alcohol - in that order

What are you scared of?
Lately, nothing. And that's stupid. I should be scared of my erratic behaviour a few months ago, but I'm not. I should be scared at how slowly I'm progressing, but I'm not. I should be scared that... oh well nevermind. Right now I fear nothing and that's a little too cocky for my tastes.

Do you have to work tomorrow?
Nope. Nor the day after (Monday). Nor the day after That (Tuesday)!

How many houses have you lived in?
Many many houses. Very few homes.

Last friend you talked to online?
Kat Maslakow; four questions ago!

Who was the last person to text message you?
Evan Bergstra, responding to my question whether my Sarah Polly wine opener was it has place: "It's here! :)"

Has anyone ever said you looked like a celebrity?
8th Grade. They said I looked like Kirk Cameron. It never got me anywhere...

What did you realize today?
the benefit of holding place in Silverware

Hold hands with anyone today?
No, unfortunately, but I hugged somebody

What were you doing at 7:45AM this morning?
Passed out cold. It IS the weekend, y'know.

What will you be doing tomorrow?
Clean the rat cage, visit Pete and Sandra, dinner, write, wine, movie, bed...

Have you ever been to a strip club?
Yes and Most of them were incredibly disappointing. There was one, however, where I was even inspired to get a lapdance. (it would have happened anyway, I'm told). It's the Only Peeler club that measured up, and it was in the same building as a Church!

What is the best ice cream flavor?
Tiger Tail, Cookie Dough, all forms of Chocolate, Bubble gum and ... believe it or not... Vanilla (if done well). Bill and Shannons French Vanilla / Ginger Ice Cream was Un-Fuckin'-Believable!!!

What was the last thing you cried about?
the end of my last relationship. My girlfriend was not just special, she was simply a superior being

What are you wearing right now?
Black dress shirt made of mostly synthetic fibres, black work pants, thin black socks (apparently with a small hole in the baby toe...), black tie with little skulls all over, Lorus Kinetic watch, Axe body spray, Black boxer/briefs by Senza (Incredibly comfortable)! In about two minutes I will also have on a two decade old leather jacket with steel studding through the lapels, a pillbox military cap (also black) and a black greatcoat.

Have you bought any drugs this month?
Oh sweetie, I don't Payyyy for drugs. I mean really. I haven't done any this month either, but you asked the question all wrong

Day been rough?
Today, yeah! not smooth at all. Same with most of yesterday

look to your left, what do you see?
Large goblet of Cabernet Shiraz, several DVDs and CDs, broom on chair (over my roomies' jackets), Rock Band Guitar controller, tripod, second computer, dishwasher on floor, scanneer and my flask... my flask.... my flask which Should be full of Jameson's Irish Whiskey! Hmmmm... back in ten minutes

Do you use chapstick?
Rarely, but sometimes. Cherry Coke flavoured. I'm such a loser.

Biggest annoyance in your life right now?
The reduced hours I work.

Last song listened to?
Expressway to Your Skull is just ending. Before that was New York Was Great, by the Raveonettes

Do you hate anyone that you know right now?
There are always a rare few that I hate. I think I need that for balance. There is currently nobody for whom my hate is incandescent; just a few chronic, dull, petulant hates that could be corrected quickly if we only had the time and inclination.

Are you waiting for something?
I've been waiting for Something all my life. But nothing specific. Not at the moment.

Would you date someone who was addicted to drugs?
I've tried that before. I don't do drugs like when I was younger and I know it wouldn't mesh well if I tried, because I'm not out to change anybody. Ya gots ta be who ya gots ta be.

Do you have a friend you can tell stuff to and you're sure they won't tell?
I ...
Think so. It isn't who I would have Expected, but life throws us some curves. There is one person at least that I think I could say literally Anything to. What a nice feeling!

Is there someone you want to fight?
I'm a lover, not a fighter. Lately I haven't been either, but that's how I roll - nonviolent, see?

Has any one ever told you they'll love you forever no matter what?
Yes and I believe some of them still do (in their way).

When was the last time you were disappointed?
Last night! and I was fucking irate too!

What is wrong with you right now?
Jesus! uhmmm, I will be honest with myself tomorrow...
k, I could be richer, smarter, faster, adored by hordes of beautiful women; I could be teaching myself right now - sign language or guitar...

Who was last to cook for you?
Toppazini!

What does your best friend call you?
Many things. Each of my friends has more than one name for me, generally. Who IS my BEST friend?

Do you know who Brendon Urie is?
Why even ask that when you could tell us...

What are you excited about?
just now? hearing back from a few people in particular. Excited about the next concert I see

Do you like coffee?
See my commentary on music...

Have you drank any milk today?
ewwwww, Raunch! do people Really drink milk Raw?

How about orange juice?
Mmmmmm! delicious! Yes I did and it was nuuuuuu-tritious!

Do you like the taste of blood?
most human blood actually doesn't taste too bad (in my experience)

What was the last thing you bought?
a pizza, pay attention!

When is the next concert you’re attending?
December 12 or 13 I hope...

What color are your eyes?
Green / grey / Gold

What’s your favorite movie?
*sigh* No. not again. Ask an original question

How many months till your birthday?
two and a half, and I already know what I hope to do for it!

Pepsi or Coke?
Already talked about this, what a vapid fucking question.

in consideration of the recent past

2008-10-23T12:01:00.000-07:00

To the people who have seen me doing stupid things and making an ass of myself: Thank you for your tolerance.
To the people who would be hurt by things I've done: I'm sorry. Simple words don't make up for everything, but it's an important start.
To the people I've annoyed: I will be more what I was when you met me and first became interested
To the people I've been good with / to / for / you-get-the-idea: I hope to continue in the same manner.

Once again, I'm seeing where the good can come out of a bad circumstance, or fucked up situation. There are those that say as long as you can keep finding that element, then you're still on the right track. Perhaps that's overly charitable, but there is a kernel of truth in it.

This is not to suggest that we cling to tiny truths in justification of our shortcomings. It's just good to know.

increments 1

2008-07-26T10:18:00.001-07:00

Telepopmusik told me to "breathe - just breathe"
but the Yeah Yeah Yeahs want me to "say say say..."
The Ventures think I should "walk, don't run" perhaps they're concerned for my safety, thanks but I'm thinking that
The Demics were right about me: "I gotta get it movin', maaan, I gotta move it right now" and then perhaps I can live up to the mantra I took from
Tykwer, Klimek and Heil - "I wish I was a person with unrelenting breath - I wish I were a heartbeat, that never comes to rest", because when
New Order tells us it's a "world in motion," even
Billy Idol "Don't Stop"

radio-activity

2008-07-01T14:31:00.000-07:00

A short while back I was invited by Mr. Luke Norton to make a guest appearance on his radio show, out at the Uni. As fate would have it, I was perfectly on time for once and those whom I was to meet were late. I took over the show for slightly more than half an hour. Luke took this as a sign of me being fully capable (which is mostly true) and is going to suggest to the station director that I be offered a timeslot.

Yeeeeeesssss, this coddles my ego. I like it. The show I offer will be later in the evening, thus falling under "experimental" programming. The advantage here is of course that I will get around specific rules. For example, the 40% Canadian content rule. I like Canadian, I do. I want to play Canadian music. I am glad I am not Strictly bound to it, mind you. Another example, which I don't intend to make much use of, is that I can play music with profanities such as "fuck," "shit" and other harsh language in it. There are limits of course. No hate. As stated though, there is no big need to purposely play music with such language.

Every program needs a name. The right name will start everything off well. There are a couple of titles in consideration right now, which I will recount momentarily; but I am hoping that anybody reading this will feel free to suggest a title for a show. Without further ado, here are some possible titles...

"Final Approach" - The first thing I played, of my own volition, was an excerpt from the beginning of the film Final Approach. I like the aircraft / in-flight feel of the name. I like the vaguely sci-fi feel of it, because I want a vaguely sci-fi feel to the show.

"Test Dept." - is actually the name of a band I used to listen to. I don't hear them so much anymore because I lent out albums and never saw them again. This would make a good title inasfar as it reflects the experimental nature of the show, and the band would be a good example of much content. Possibly.

"Radioaktivität" - taken directly from the Kraftwerk song. I loves Kraftwerk, yes I does! This title would also carry a strong sci-fi feel and a definite denotation of what's what. A little unoriginal, I'd have to say - don't you think? *sigh*...

Some kind of variation on the long standing "Voice of Freedom" might be good. Or "Radio Free Sudbury." A dash political, though.

At home, at work, at play

2008-07-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

First off, Congratulations to Spain for making it all the way through and taking the EuroCup. I didn't see the goal (it was 1-0 at full time). In fact I only caught the last two minutes of the game because of a play I performed in.

I have been avoiding writing again for a little while. That is to say I wanted to get to it, but probably 'later.' The play is over, though, and a few things will change subtly and so perhaps it is time to get back to typing.
A Midsummer Night's Dream ran for a grand total of four performances and we always end up asking ourselves why not double the run? Whatever. I will Not say this was a smooth run. Elements of it were smooth, but some parts were outright prickly and stupid. They say it doesn't help to concentrate on the negative, but I am saying this now to get it out of my system so it can be done forever. Nonetheless it was fun overall. I would do it again. Next time as Puck.

Separate topic. I've started work at the Office Bistro. I hope they will not schedule me tomorrow, but then go ahead and schedule me for the rest of the time they are open. I have a good feeling about this place. Of course, I need to make lots of money very quickly, too. Cuz I shall have to move soon.

This place of mine is .... a perpetual mess. Short of constant effort, this is how it will remain. It's slowly getting to me. I have tried to put the point across, but I am guessing I shall have to be Blunt. I am further guessing that will only be successful for a short time. Why do people make other people have to be blunt and unpleasant?
Soon enough it won't matter, of course, because I will flee the country! Another home, far away...

And there it is: for those of you who knnow me, you know I like to write about things in threes. Todays theme "at work, at home, at play" was boosted from a song by Sparks, which is playing right now in my messy damn house

Drawn in the sand

2008-06-07T11:06:00.000-07:00

Clearly the topic is lines. We're not talking about little white lines here, either, rather the big extensive lines that will swallow up vast tracts of time in the course of being memorized. I have a device to make all well though...

But first a little background is probably appropriate. With Summer coming on it is once again time for Shakespeare on the lawn at the Thorneloe Chapel. This month, from the 26th to 29th we will be presenting the much loved classic A Midsummer Night's Dream (in a slightly shortened format).

Now as mentioned, the problem with presenting a play is learning your lines, or as the thespians say "going off-book." Generally I find it hard to see how people could do this without some kind of trick. Here are some of mine.

Many would doubt it possible as I state presently that I am both typing this and studying lines simultaneously, but it's true. My first and possibly best trick is to record a reading of the lines involved to my trusty iPod. The easiest thing one will ever remember is a song that they want to sing along to. This way, I can play back any section of my nearly 20 minutes of recitation as though it Were a song. Sort of. I can do this pretty much any time outside of the shower. Better, it allows one to study handsfree and without keeping their eye on the page, making things Incredibly convenient.

Of course having an audible assist is great, but there is still no getting around the actual script. The script is your friend because it is the portable format that maintains your visual cues and all the notes to direct you on subtext that lines alone speak naught of. Pardon the vaguely archaic tone that crept in there.

Blocking (position onstage at any time and actions), tone and inflection, cues and of course silly drawings of the director are all contained in the script in one's own handwriting. And lines, too, naturally.

Lines! Sometimes we get a longer patch of lines - A "monologue," if you will. This is where trick two comes into play. Rather than be daunted by a large passage, the intelligent memorizer will instead begin to divide the passage. There are always logical progressions of sub-thoughts that can stand on there own. By taking these sub-thoughts as their own lines, we connect them with simple mnemonics or one-word categories and memorize in small portions until we have the whole.

But these things seem obvious. These are not the reason this note is being written. The real reason is that today being the 7th of June, there is only one day left for the cast to be off-book. This weighs heavily on me. There are several passages that Y.T. has down pat. Pat, pat.

Neither am I complaining that I am overburdened by the volume of lines to be memorized. I have fewer lines than some of the actors. The longest of monologues are presented by others as well. It is simply this: it is one thing to let one's self down and not be ready, but in taking a role, one makes a compact with all the others involved. One owes them a certain dedication and perseverance to ensure their efforts are equally met.

Offbook by tomorrow. Wish me 'break a leg'...

because I cannot sleep

2007-12-06T22:27:00.000-08:00

perhaps thinking will help.
Andrew didn't think anybody would repost this quiz, so I thought I'd prove him wrong:

1) Some random girl comes up to you and says "who the hell are you"?
You're asking what I'd do? I'd say "look you don't know me yet, but very soon you will.."

2) What's the last thing you put in your mouth?
my Foot!

4) The last song you listened to?
"Roadrunner" by Jonathan Richmond and Modern Lovers.

5) If you hated someone and got put in charge of his or her funeral music, what would it be?
"Entry of the Gladiators" by Fucik or "Liberty Bell March"

6) Where is your best friend right now?
I'm not sure :(

8) Pick a scar on your body:
I think the one above my left eyebrow

9) What teacher have you hated most and why?
Mrs.White, who took all the joy of math and turned it to hate

15.) Who do you trust with your life?
Ashley Silcock, Sarah Gartshore, my family... hmmm

16) If you could change your name to anything what would it be?
Bruno Ponce Léon? Johnny Moondog? Citizen Simac?

17) What would you say if someone told you that you were the most beautiful person in the world and they would do anything to wake up to your face each and every morning?
Obviously that depends on Who said it.

18) What do you hate about your school?
That they didn't accept a four year honour degree and higher than stated requirements for entrance to their MA program.

19) How often do you curse?
Ah shit...

20) Do you trust all of your friends?
All of them. To varying degrees and with specific things. One learns to what extents they can trust people - I've learned the hard way often enough. I still love them.

21) Would you move to another state or country to be with the one you love?
Of course. Probably not the U.S. though.

22.) Have you ever talked on the phone while in the shower?
electronics and water? why didn't I think of it!!

23) Name two things you would not tolerate in a relationship?
lies.
bullshit.

24) Which one of your friends do you think would make the best prostitute?
I wouldn't wish that on the people I Don't like! I'm sure as hell not doing so for friends.

25) Are you afraid of falling in love?
not at all, it's probably better than smoking

26) Is there someone that popped in your mind after that question?
I thought of ex-lovers, naturally

29) Fill in the blank. I love_____....
"that shit!" or "you" or "gratuitously"

30) What is a goal you would like to accomplish in the near future?
move to the caribbean - which people should already know

31) If you were to wake up from being in a coma for an extended time who would you call?
that cute nurse from the night shift

32) How many kids do you want to have?
one. or two. or the whole soccer team. no other number will do

33) Would you make a good parent?
I think so. I have been told so. I have a number of friends that I've been learning from, so Yes

34) Where was your default picture taken?
in my bedroom

35) What is your middle name?
Charles. Some folks think it's Charlie and that's okay, but really it's Charles

36) Honestly, what's on your mind right now?
I am literally Killing time

37) If you could go back in time and change something, what would it be?
I would have been nicer

38) Shoe size?
11

39) What are you wearing right now?
blue jeans, boxers, t-shirt and a sweater

41) Can you make a dollar in change right now?
I bet I can make ten

44) Favorite animal?
Iguanas. They are magical. Followed closely by rats

46) Have you had the chicken pox?
Twice! it is in fact possible...

48) Ever had plastic surgery?
Yup!

49) Who knows you the best?
I ask myself this often enough. Everybody knows different aspects of me...

51) Ever been in a fight with your pet?
sort of. it was pretty one sided...

52) Ever been to Mexico?
No. but nearly went on a day trip to Tijuana when I visited LA

55) Did you miss anyone today?
Yessss, just like everyday!

58) Last person to lay in your bed?
Me! If you meant who besides me I am not answering, it would just sound like something it wasn't anyhow.

59) Last person to see you cry...
I think Ami Lowe

60) Who/what made you cry?
my pet iguana died

62) What are your plans for the weekend?
try to get my shit in order

63) Who do you think will repost this?
not too many people read this anymore. If Vic is the type to repost Crap like this, maybe...

64) Are you happy right now?
I'm not sad

66) Are you hungry?
I just had apple crisp and bread, so no

67) Are you a forgiving person?
Very much so.

68) Would you ever share a girl/boyfriend with your best friend?
Not with my best friend, but I have with others

70) Are you talking to someone while doing this?
I am quiet as a churchmouse.

72) What are you about to do right now?
go to bed

The next Rat!

2007-12-02T15:28:00.000-08:00

If you've read this faithfully, you will already be familiar with Jill, my Rat. When Penelope died, Jill was alone, so I had to find her a roommate. I never did introduce the newest addition to our house...

Katie, or Kate, is the young Rat currently living next door to Jill. They are separated because the fight for dominance had been getting gratuitous and bloody. I shall try to integrate them again soon. At any rate, Kate is beautiful and so good natured - though still with a healthy dose of scepticism. There will be a facebook link up shortly to a picture of Kate and Jill.

Shalll we play a little game?

2007-11-20T19:52:00.000-08:00

A little game of...
...Murder?!?! :P
This is post 187, which, for the uninitiated, is the police code for homicide. I promised to make this one topical. So here's a little game I propose to Kill some time! I will write lines from different songs. Whoever identifies songs and artists in order presented will win an actual handwritten note from yours truly of at least two pages length. If you can execute this task with Extra information pertaining to the lines, then I will probably even let you pick the topic in the letter! First three to satisfy the conditions win.

Bonus: you just have to guess ten of these!
Shall we? here are the mystery lines:
1 "Murderer! Man on fire - Murderer! I've seen the eyes of living dead"
2 "I can turn and walk away or I can fire the gun, staring at the sky, staring at the sun"
3 "Fate - up against your will - through the thick and thin..."
4 "I heard you on the wireless back in '52, lying awake in bed and tuning in on you..."
5 "fa fa fa fa fa fa fa fa fa far better Run run run run run run run away" (This one's a freebie!)
6 "I'm gonna run, gonna run till I hit the sun some little cunt's gonna get my gun"
7 "I been very tempted to grab it from the till - I've been very hungry, but not enough to kill"
8 "Tell me tell me tell me the answer - You may be a lover but you ain't no dancer" (also a giveaway)
9 "I'm a wicked young lady, but I've been trying hard lately.. O fuck it! I'm a monster! I admit it!"
10 "I felt all flushed with fever, embarrassed by the crowd, I felt he found my letters and read each one out loud"
11 "I know they're gonna hang me, tomorrow I'll be dead, though I never even harmed a hair on poor little Laurie's head."
12 "...you know I caught her messin' 'round with another man. Huh! And that ain't too cool"
13 "I stuck that lovin' 44 beneath my head"
14 "The silicon chip inside her head gets switched to overload..."
15 "What did her daddy do? It's Janie's last I.O.U."
16 "My adrenaline's pumpin. I got my stereo bumpin. I'm 'bout to kill me somethin. A police stopped me for nuthin'!

Well that's a whole lotta Killin' goin' on eh? Yes indeed. If you can't figure them out then get vengeful and add some that I can't figure out! Keeping to the theme, Chris and Angelle ordered Indian food today at my influence (cuz I could Murder a curry :P)! Eventually I shall write another post going 187 on specific corporations like Bell...

Incidentally, hands up those who've heard about the guy that the RCMP tasered to death. Did you see the video? (http://www.cbc.ca/canada/british-columbia/story/2007/11/14/bc-taservideo.html) Did you hear anything at all about the use of a billy bat on the head of an unconscious victim? Yes, it's true. When it comes to killing may I suggest you all be HyperWary of anyone who is Supposed to carry a firearm? Remember, trust nobody with your life - cuz it's your Life!!!

I think there will have to be a part two to this...
tune in again for the next installment

Distractions, distractions...

2007-11-20T13:44:00.000-08:00

Sure, sure, I promised earlier that I would have already reached my 200th post. Well I was wrong. I, like so much of the world, have been on FaceBook lately.

Let's start with FaceBook, shall we? It really is a convenience somehow and yet I loathe that site. There are so many little applets that people always nag with. What a pain in the ass! But then I don't want to be rude, these people are nagging cuz they care and it's a form of interaction. And I love these people! They can't All give me a call. I suppose I love the pain in the neck applets for the intention behind them.

Now Blogger and ƒB are different utilities and I realize that I Miss Blogger. I like the idea of having content control as opposed to - ƒB who Claim content rights. Let me say that again. FaceBook claims content rights in their EULA. Some people have figured this out and I expect it is the prime reason I hear "I'm getting off facebook." Good for you. To everyone else: you best start thinking twice about that stuff. Don't put anything important on it. And for Chrissakes how can you Not know that you are being DataMined?!?! So for the Love Whatever you most want to be loved By, Get in there and LIE! Lie, Lie, Lie and fuck with those Marketers!

I suppose the unilateral-ity of Blogger is also a bonus I appreciate, which I wouldn't have cottoned to unless I read a friend's blog today. Well, associate really, I spent a long time suspecting this person didn't like me at all. A link will show up in the side bar soon, in case you trust my judgements.

thinking of old times and friends...

2007-04-04T15:47:00.000-07:00

We met when we were in school. Never took no shit from no one, we werent fools.
The teacher says we're dumb. We're only having fun. We piss on everyone in the classroom
When we got thrown out I left without much fuss. On weekends we'd go dancing down streatham on the bus
You always made me laugh, got me in bad fights, play me pool all night, smokin menthol
I practised daily in my room. You were down the crown planning your next move...
Go on a nicking spree, hit the wrong guy - each of you get three years in brixton
I did my very best to write. How was butlins? Were the screws too tight? When you lot get out were gonna hit the town - well burn it fuckin down to a cinder
Cos years have passed and things have changed and I move anyway I wanna go
Ill never forget the feeling I got when I heard that you'd got home. An I'll never forget the smile on my face when I knew where you would be...
- And if you're in the crown tonight, have a drink on me
But go easy...step lightly...stay free

0 - 100 in X seconds

2007-04-04T13:47:00.000-07:00

My final class ended today at about two in the afternoon. It's all done but the writing. By my count the writing is approximately thirty five pages.

Now, I haven't been on this site since early February and I miss it, yes I do. My goal is simple: All school related writing done in a week and a half and my two hundredth post here on blogger by the end of the month. further, just for ambition's sake, a script for a movie in no more than say two and a half weeks.

and I need to get a job. Fast. - ish.

The entries here will be cheating, one will note that they are extremely similar to what I must hand in for class. The shorter ones, anyhow.

That said, tune in soon to enjoy me elucidating mountains of critical theory. I'm off to get something done.

pray for me, to whichever God you believe in

Exam tonight

2007-02-05T13:46:00.000-08:00

Yup the Exam is tonight.
All class members need 70%.
Or they are booted mercilessly from the class.
Mercilessly!
Keep your fingers crossed for me.

It's all about me today!

2007-01-31T16:12:00.000-08:00

It really IS all about me today.
If you don't believe it read the two other entries I posted today.
That'll prove it's about mmmME!

MMMMMEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEeeeeeeeeeeeeee-EEEE! (^_^)

Oh! Hi! look at you. Now, Look at Me!

sorry, how selfish. Hello all readers. Hope you have a lovely week. It looks to be shaping up as a right decent week.

Not all vampires suck blood...

2007-01-31T15:56:00.000-08:00

Energy! You dirty little vampires, I know what you were thinking. Of course in specific cases I will be more than happy to suck your blood.

Energy; O, my flock, that is what I need from you now. You see there's just sooooo much to be done, but I haven't been able to pull it together. No man is an island. I only get anywhere with the lot of you, so I have to ask this of you all:

Channel me some Karma, Power-level me, Kick my ass a little, Lend me your strength, Transfer some charge to me, Be my muse, Push me, Give Me Your Life Force and I promise to reciprocate in the fullness of time. As I have previously stated, my triumph Is your triumph!

If you all give just a little I will catch fire, I will become incandescent. Won't that be fun? Seeing me immolate? Science suggests that if I move quickly enough while this process, my gravity will increase - and then I can be a star! A star for my readers, of Course!

XXX-V!

2007-01-31T15:29:00.000-08:00

The triple X represents extreme sexuality. The V represents victory. Funny, but I expect neither of these things to figure into my day at all. Of course taken together, we have the roman numerals for 35. I am officially middle-age.

I Feel Like I am 19! Sure, plenty of readers here in Simacia, have heard this before. But How does one account for this discrepancy? Do you all really understand the problems presented? I am unresolved. I am unable to resolve. I'm not complaining. I look around and see many people my age who are miserable (relatively). Or maybe I just surmise that I enjoy life more than they. Perhaps they've reached their apex, while in many ways I am still coming into my stride.

It is a little ridiculous to be coming into your stride at half-life. Anyways, I often act like a kid and in some ways I Refuse to give it up.

...uhhhhmmmm. Mmmmhm. There was a sort of semi-squishy introspective point I was leading up to here. It was going to be uplifting and wise like your grandmother would have told you. Y'know? But dammit, it's gone. So:

Rock On! Go out and celebrate my existance! Doesn't matter if you see me or not - Just go out and have a wikkid cool time some point this week. And think of me when you do

quick Hello

2007-01-11T16:41:00.000-08:00

You saw me walking the other day.
nowhere specific
no particular time of day
but I hope you were smiling
when you saw me

Intro to Jill and apology to my Jills

2007-01-11T16:24:00.000-08:00

You may know that Stella left us a little while ago. Shed a tear, take a drink. Currently, there is a new girl living with Penelope and myself. Her name is Jill. I can't see where the three girls named Jill that I have been friends with will be flattered by having a rat named after them, so I will qualify it a little.

As I say, I have personally known three Jills. Each of them are fun, funny, intelligent, saucy, good looking, sociable, capable people (and other good traits). They are all these things, yet all these things are expressed differently by the different Jills.

When I decide to bring another person or animal into my life, I hope to shape them somewhat. In the case of my new rat roommate, I thought it would be nice to have someone similar to my Jill friends around. (I rarely see any of the human Jills). So there, in a nutshell, is my mentality. I hope no Jill anywhere is offended.

Jill is a fancy rat. She is slightly hooded with a greyish caramel colour. In fact she looks plenty like Penelope but younger; the colour hasn't taken yet. My newest roommate has yet to learn when food is being offered and subsequently comes off as very friendly, trying to hold your hand instead of bite it like food. She is fairly high energy - she climbs the walls but not the ceiling and as yet no acrobatics.

Jill!

Instance and interrupt

2007-01-11T16:11:00.000-08:00

This is issue #177. Ten letters from now I shall write about homicide.

In the meantime I shall talk about the trouble with holidays. It takes me some time to get my momentum going. By the time of year when we nail people to crosses, errmm... that is Celebrate their life, I am in full swing. I am all engines go. Then comes this nearly month long interrupt that messes with all my good efforts.

The trip to see family, the extra parties that go with the cultural attitude (parties are fun), the spending to prove you're a good person - it all gets in the way. From a work point of view I'd be much happier bypassing the holidays.

New Year's Eve is okay, because it's a one off. Now I should also point out how family seems to go slightly insane at this time of year, until you are face to face and suddenly they are stone cold sober and sane. Unnerving effect, as far as I am concerned.

Where was I? Oh! Yes, I am really out of whack with my classes. Damn you, holidays! It would be best to have only reading week early in the new year. We really don't need more than that.

Stella

2006-11-18T13:23:00.000-08:00

Stella is my younger pet rat. As some readers know already, she went to the vet with a severe pneumonia, but pulled through that remarkably. Two weeks later she returned to the vet. Her breathing had recovered (though was still laboured), but she had not gained any weight. In fact, she had dropped to 150 grams.

Less than an hour after coming home she'd breathed her last. I've heard many condolences on her passing, which I appreciate. Honestly, given that we all go sometime, this was a good way to go. Of course I am sad, I will miss her, but I was also lucky to get an extra two weeks with her.

Bi bi, Stella

Various thoughts...

2006-11-16T11:22:00.000-08:00

Dah!As Stella recovers from serious pneumonia, Penelope has developed a tumour. She goes under the knife tomorrow afternoon - for the second time!

I'm in the school paper. Perhaps I should have used an exclamation mark for that, but schmeh. I also spoke to the Lambda editor about doing photography for them.

I spoke with Jeff from Lit. Crit. & Theory, while he worked away in CKLU today. It made me remember that I was going to get a show on the station. I should look into that again.

Possibly taking dance lessons with Lil' Liz Van Tassel. She is already a dancer, I am a clod. It will be fun, but interesting.

Really, Brutallly, Seriously behind with the work for Athabasca. This will not do. Sympathize! Or, better yet, motivate me. I would really appreciate it and promise to do the same for you, when you need it.

I am playing Risk with the crew from LOCS tomorrow. Not a bad game, really. I would like to hang out with one person in particular who will be there... A little coffee would be nice anyway.

lessee; Rats, Risk, Radio, Paper, School...
I reckon that's it for now. I have a date with Percy Bysshe b'nun-d'dada Shelley. (Not even the English majors knew that was one of his middle names!)

hope you enjoyed this fluff...

2006-11-07T15:17:00.000-08:00

I was recently reminded that I once theorized that there are four different types of coffee. Try not to think “Columbian,” or “Dark Roast” here. More succinctly, there are four purposes to coffee. I was asked today what they are, but the original impulse was gone, so I had to scavenge my own mentality to reconstruct the notion. Here's what I came up with:

C1
The most common, and therefore let us call it Type 1 coffee, is shared with friends. It is social coffee, or more accurately, socializing coffee. One discusses their day, family, the crazy weekend that they endured. The coffee is the pretext to an event where we hone our social skills. Type 1 - Friendly coffee.

C2
I cannot comment on the commonality of the remaining types, though I would guess that this is next: coffee as the common bond. This is the junkie's coffee. Let's face it, we all drink the stuff and many times have little else in common. Life puts us in situations where we necessarily end up working with these people whom we have little in common with. I liken this coffee to the banners we wave in a stadium. We all support the same team, it seems to say; therefore, Type 2 - Stadium coffee. Junkie's coffee also kind of covers the “I can't wake up without it” cup we have in the morning, though I would not argue with anyone who chose to represent it as its own genre.

C3
Thankfully, the next purpose is fairly uncommon, though I had this coffee last night. This coffee provides a reason to get together with someone when they need help or support. Society is weird like that. Many of us can simply say “I need your help / support.” Perhaps itʼs the idea of that extra common bond that reinforces the person understands you. This makes their support seem more valid, or better. Or something like that. It is also nice to have the option to pause without saying anything, while one contemplates the hardships at hand. This is provided for by slowly sipping at the coffee. Type 3, then - Support coffee.

C4 (which can provide quite the bang)
One of the most obvious is the COFFEE. This is the beverage that affords one some extra time (usually one on one) to try and convince another that they should be Closer. Intimate. Physical. I call it COFFEE because of a comedian who once discussed this (Eddie Izzard). For those of you not familiar with Izzard, let us label it as Type 4 - Sexy coffee. or, sssSexy Coffee!

My primitive mentality produced these four purposes more or less immediately, however, in the time it took to write this I have identified to more types that deserve recognition. They can often be linked to Type 4 coffee, but don't Have to be.

C5
This coffee is again usually one on one, though variations are noted depending on a person's ambitions. Its purpose is to probe the personality of someone you have recently met. One is looking for how well they will get along with the other. Clearly this may connect to Type 4 coffee because one may finish a few cups of the black gold and think “I like this person, I want to take this person to bed,” or possibly “Let's fuck.” There is a second purpose to this coffee though. One may be looking to see if the other person will make a goodly friend. I suppose
one might be guaging if the other will be a suitable addition to the company (i.e. interview coffee). Since there are different manifestations, we require an umbrella term. My first idea was “Worthiness coffee,” which though accurate, sounds cynical. I opt instead to suggest Type 5 - Tentative coffee.

C6
The final coffee type I offer now for your consideration also subdivides into two major categories. Indeed, sub-divide as you see fit, but the concepts of necessity and luxury present themselves. On the necessity side we have the “Damn it's cold, I need to warm up with a nice hot cup of” coffee. On the luxury side I am thinking of when the warmth imbued by the beverage is more spiritual. An excellent example: Waking up exhausted after a long night of successful Type 4 coffees with someone you truly adore and quietly sipping on a fresh cup of breakfast blend while you massage your partner's feet and contemplate the fact that it is Sunday and all your responsabilities have been attended to. Type 6 - Coffee of Warmth. Probably this is the Best cup of coffee one can have.

IMPORTANT! - When doing coffee, be sure you know which type you are drinking! Many a disastrous occasion has arisen out of confusion over just what coffee type is going down your throat. Sometimes the differences are glaringly obvious - it is difficult to confuse Type 6 coffee with good old fashioned Types 1 or 5. Though I hate the term, if you Do confuse these types there is a chance you might be “easy.” Seek help from a respected barrista.

Consider the person and their situation, when inviting anyone for coffee. Does your intended coffee type match their most likely preference? Some people will never taste Type 4 coffee, some can't start their day without it. If it's Type 3 coffee, ask yourself if you really have enough time (these coffees can be tediously repetitive and take Hours for just one cup). And for heaven's sake learn to recognize when it's only ever going to Be Type 1 coffee.

Remember that there are special times where coffee types overlap. It is possible on occasion to have Type 1 for a long time with someone, but circumstance suddenly changes it to Type 4. Learn to recognize the subtle differences and your cheesy horoscope might come true for once. Remember also that though Type 3 can overlap well with and reinforce Type 1, it's often disastrous when mixed with Type 4. Adding alcohol to your coffee (even an innocent dash of Bailey's) can compound the issue. This is not to say that alcohol is verboten, sometimes the added warmth of some Tia Maria can enhance the right type of coffee, especially 4 and 6. Keep in mind that each alcohol has a personality of its own that will influence and possibly potentiate with the coffee type.

It tends to be a social phenomenon that Asking someone what type of coffee you are enjoying with them, especially after the first refill or later, dampens the situation considerably. Further, it makes one look somewhat naive or even a bit of a dullard. Moreover, asking may be considered crude and boorish. Again, with the right measure of charisma and delicate handling, asking may be acceptable. There are documented instances where asking, handled well, has advantageously turned one type to another (to the delight and amusement of all involved). Simply put: Be Careful about Asking!

A note about Decaf:
There are those members of society who have very strong reactions to the contents of a lovely coffee. Caffeine is the main problem in these cases. In the past, Decaf was considered somewhat frivolous and suggested that the imbiber was not serious about anything. In these semi-enlightened times of political correctness, it is considered a faux pas to make such assumptions. If one is open about drinking Decaf, it is not rude to inquire if they have trouble with regular coffee, just do not pry.

DISCLAIMER! - It should be noted that although in recent times it is common enough to see someone drinking coffee in a chic café while reading the DaVinci Code™, there is no hidden, kabbalic or otherwise mystic numerology to the coffee types presented here. If you find yourself seeking secret meanings in these numbers, you have likely had far too much of whatever type you're drinking and have become paranoid. Do not consult a barrista! Barristas practice their own weird mysticism and cannot help. Instead seek a coffee cessation worker.

I would like to share with you an ancient poem about coffee. It was written in a male dominated society, so please try to see the value beyond the single sexist remark it contains.

Good Coffee Should Be
Black as Night
Strong as Death
Sweet as a Woman

*sigh* It brings a tear to the ee, doesnʼt it? Now, as regular readers will acknowledge, I often ask for feedback. By all means if I have left out significant elements, share your view with the rest of us. Until we meet again, maintain full speed, stay up late, wake up tired but determined.

Stella My Hero

2006-11-07T15:07:00.000-08:00

Rats. It is my conviction that Rats and Beavers are the most intelligent of all rodents. Beavers make hellish pets, they take soooo much effort to tame (^_^) better to just enjoy them wild, naturally. Rats make wonderful pets because you do not need to break the habit of damming up the frikkinʼ bathtub. I live with two rats, named Penelope and Stella (aka StelapodʼnʼPenelapod in cutesy baby talk).

Stella has been suffering under “a severe pneumonia.” She had lost half her weight in 3 days and became unco-ordinated She has been on something called Enrofloxacin™, and a strawberry flavoured diet supplement for old people through the worse part of the week. Last night we reached the eleventh hour, or chapel perilous, or what have you. She was gasping for air. She was convulsing for it. It looked painful. She could hardly breathe much less choke down even liquid food.

If ever you have tried to nurse someone sick to better health, you must realize how desperately you wish you could help. Of course, being there for them is about all one can do. I was worried that Stella would die last night. I know it was much worse for her, but it was hard for me too.

Some may say in these circumstances that it is most kind to put no expectations on the sick. I may not be the most kind person. I told her to fight and fight and damn well fight. I reason that if I am ever in a similar condition I will do the same. That is what life does - it clings, it holds on, it forces itself to persist, it fights. After many hours of ragged breathing, the sound of which reminded me of a saw, some Type 3 coffee with some friends and plenty of shifting discomfort, Stella's breathing became rhythmic and quieter. I rested with her on my chest for a few hours and gave her some boost™. With her breathing still shallow, but constant, I set her in her cage for a while. I woke up every hour through the morning, worried about her.

If this seems too fluffy for you, quit reading now, it's going to get worse. I canʼt say how much my words affected Stella. Certainly there are those who insist that non-human animals can't understand our speech. I differ with such people. I think that she not only heard me prompting her, but took it to heart. It is truely inspiring to watch 240 grams of tiny hands, twitching whiskers and bulging beady eyes strive so hard against circumstance. The sheer resolve, force of will, Stella displayed in beating this infection makes me proud. Such a tiny, fragile thing, without the strength to cross the floor of her cage, found the wherewithal to overcome her difficulties. On one level she is muscle and sinew, but on another she is tempered steel. She is my hero because of this.

Stella is a reminder to me to keep pushing even when the odds are against you and failure seems assured. She is a reminder to never give in, never give up. She embodies the best-finest aspects of the principles of obstinacy, survival and indomitable spirit.
More Importantly, my little girl is going to survive!

I must give credit where due. Penelope helped to take care of Stella, grooming her on a regular basis, sheilding her from harsh light, etc.

The one thing I will add is that (assuming the God I believe in exists), when I meet God, we are going to have a long talk about this whole issue of 3 days to become deathly ill and a number of weeks until full recovery. This issue is damned offensive to me and someone is going to answer for it (assuming there is a God).

Toad In The Hole!

2006-10-24T09:27:00.000-07:00

(I Swear I thought I had written it already, but I was wrong. Wrong! and I apologize)

You likely know it by a different name, like, Egg in a raft, Eggy in the basket or even ... I don't know. The potential list of metaphoric names for toast with a section hollowed wherein one fries an egg is likely extensive. I have no idea who first called it Toad In The Hole. I would love to know if any of you had a different name for this food when you were younger. No need to make up metaphors really, cuz I could do that...

Imagine how different commando films would feel if they yelled it each time the tossed a grenade or used a breaching charge: Instead of "Fire In the Hole!!!' it would be "Toad In the Hole" and the enemy soldiers would be like: "zey are attacking mit ze toads? Kvik, Hans, get ze tennis rackets, ve must defend ze bunker!" Hehehe

It also makes me think of the phrase "ace in the hole." Yet I haven't figured a scenario that 's even vaguely plausible to fit such a change....
Gangsta 1: We need to take Vinnie down, he's gonna rat us out.
Gangsta 2: Yeah, but he's paranoid and he's gonna underground. Nobody can reach him now.
Gangsta 1: It's okay, I've got an ace, I mean Toad in the hole. Y'see he's got a thing for fresh linen. Irish linen. We simply slip some poison into his pillow case. He calls for fresh sheets... Next time he lays his head down, it's for the Big Sleep, see?

that's three. more soon.
thanks for reading

Resolution

2006-10-17T09:12:00.000-07:00

This is a happy type entry, but before I start I should apologize for the double entry about language earlier. Not that many of you responded, which is a shame, but in general terms. That mistake was due to an embarassing lag time that blogger users suffered that day.

Here's the Good Stuff:

1) Called the landlord. "My furnace isn't working." The vivacious and pretty secretary answers and makes a quick check of things. "We can have a guy there in an hour." (^_^)!

2) Bureaucracy Demon the First: SLAIN! This would be the demon that barred the gates to convocation. In the eleventh hour of an epic struggle between myself and the demon, I struck it a mortal blow and my prize is that I can graduate. 28 Oct., 10 a.m., Everybody invited.

3) Bureaucracy demon the Second: Flagging. It's getting weaker and I am set to rally. Soon I shall have my OSAP.

4) I don't know about 4, I think I am just in a good mood today. If you are in a Not Good mood, come seek me out and I will cheer you up. I can make you smile!

Missing

2006-10-14T13:20:00.000-07:00

I am missing a few things. In keeping with established style, I will mention three:

I have missed the first anthro dinner, of which I am rather insensed. This is the only one I have missed since being at LU. It is an unusual chance to catch up with some really cool people that I don't get to see enough of.

Tonight I shall miss the flamenco espectacularrrrrr (roll the 'r') and that is Such a shame! Obviously, I want to hear the music and see the dancing, (and be jealous that I don't know how to do either). I also hoped to get some wicked photos at the event too. Pics would be nice because I could get them in Lambda, whose pics from the metric concert just Sucked.

Lastly, I miss . You know who you are.

Tune in later for More exciting updates.

A side thought about language

2006-10-11T16:24:00.001-07:00

So I was trying to find an image of Rose McGowan, because she is beautiful. This led, as anyone would reasonably guess, to a grammar quiz. Someone was urging whoever read his writing to preserve the english language. Pardon: the English language. I felt I should respond.

One has to understand that language changes over time, like it or lump it. Over a long enough time it becomes a new language. It is fun to toy with those high school teachers who lament any change whatsoever, any usage that is less than "good english." This concept varies from teacher to teacher, of course - try comparing some teachers and see for yourself.

You see, the argument is quite old. Back in the 1600s there were also people of influence (men, primarily, because the patriarchy kept women down) who made the same complaints. The usage that bothered them is now standard english. At one point for instance, the use of contractions was abominable and low class. Incidentally, the vulgar and vernacular tend to be the crucible for new language - the birthplace of new language. It is of course foolish to resist the creation of new language. It is futile. All language changes.

Personally, I have always found it one of the more charming aspects of english that its adaptability, flexibility and willingness to expand its horizons have made it the largest language in history (by lexicon). The upshot? Speakers have more ways to express themselves. Language Is about communicating, after all.

I know there are those of you out there who carry an utter disdain for ebonics, 1337, and other lower forms. Ironically, this attitude comes primarily from academia, an area with such elitistly developed modes of language use that 'hypocrisy' hardly covers what is going on. Nonetheless, I will agree wholeheartedly that they Are Lower forms.

Perhaps the reason I am so surprised at people who most want to 'preserve' the language, is that they are often the ones who seem to claim most vehemently their love of the language. Yet there is no joy, no laughter, no creation to their relationship with the language. Sorry. Of course there is, but only in rigidly prescribed manners. I'm not trying to slag these people, because I see some validity in what they are saying. I feel that a little must be added to it, though.

I think, (and I hope people will throw in their two cents), that the idea is people should understand the Formal Usage of a language before using other modes. Some will say this is essential. I would say important, but not essential. remember that the basic value of language is getting the idea across. If you hear something like ebonics and don't understand it, perhaps you haven't considered that the message is not intended for you. On the other hand, I do insist that if one is speaking ebonics to an academic, the speaker is at fault for not choosing clearly understandable speech. Not to let the 'learned' off the hook though, this principle goes both ways, a double edged knife!

The forging of new language is a wonderful, enjoyable and often intellectual pursuit. I cannot suggest it strongly enough as an activity befitting the rich, the poor, the woman, the boy, the smart, the stupid, the black, white, yellow and red - Everybody! The trick lies in how you impart your meaning to others.

Since I have already asked for responses, I shall make a more specific request: why not reply with a word or phrase of your own devising? State the meaning or intended usage. I promise I will try to use as many of them as I can. If anyone reading this loves language, then let us forge our own additions to english together.

A side thought about language

2006-10-11T16:24:00.000-07:00

Touchstone friends

2006-10-02T19:14:00.000-07:00

My friend Andrew is one of my touchstone friends. For those of you who don't know what a touchstone is, attend: The ancients found a special stone upon which you could scrape other substances and it would leave a mark. When Gold was set to it, the gold would leave a mark distinct from anything else. This was probably the earliest form of anti-fraud device for humankind.

Gold. I seek people who are as good as gold, in their own quirky ways. When I say someone is a touchstone, then, you can surmise that I am somehow comparing you to them. Well, that's a little off base. What I am thinking is that if you have a problem with such a person, odds are I will end up having a problem with you (sooner or later).

This is not a righteousness trip. It could well turn out that this is my loss. It doesn't mean the person in question is any less valid in their humanity, dignity, opinions, etc... it's just a guideline for me - a caveat, even. On occasion, I have ignored this impulse and once or twice it even worked out. Generally, it is a good impulse.

Sudbury Transit gets a boost - or, Two!

2006-10-02T18:25:00.000-07:00

By chance, I spoke with a co-ordinator for our fair city's illustrious transit system today. It was pleasant, he was a decent chap. I won't linger on the less significant biz, but I do want to share this:

I mentioned to him how ages ago in Hamilton, the transit system assigned every bus-stop a personal phone number. Riders could call the number and find out precisely how long until their next bus came. Aside from obvious slow-downs like black ice or blizzards, the system was invariably accurate to within a minute or two at the absolute outside.

O my faithful readers, you Know how I used to disdain Sudbury Transit when I first came here. One never realizes how good home was until they leave, eh? Well after I describe this to co-ordinator guy, he tells me that the bus authority are already in phase one of putting the same system into effect here! Phase One - the GPS system is being put into place even as I write this! Phone numbers are being arranged...

This is a major boon to bus users all over the city. Further, there are eleven (or was it thirteen?) new buses coming to Sudbury, to increase schedule times and run later. Hot Damn!

It is a common thing to work in threes on this blog, so I shall also mention the U-Pass system, which is hard at work for all full time undergrads at L.U. It's here now, and no amount of pissing and moaning can stop it. Frankly, I think it is great. Cambrian will be online with this idea next year. Hopefully, so will Boreal.

Exciting times in the mass transit milieu. For all the complaints I have had about buses here, I would like to say now that I am indeed impressed with the advances Sudbury Transit is making. Kudos to all bus-affiliated workers, you're on the right track.

Not just another manic Monday.

2006-10-02T17:47:00.000-07:00

Not Manic at all, o commanders of the faithful, but instead very pleasant and rather relaxing. So here are the major concerns, along with their status.

Convocation. Well on my way. The final hurdle is being hurdled as we speak. My prof from up the hill at Huntington is helping to keep me on track. Just one more reason to suggest taking her classes. So at the end of the month, my poor immigrant parents will be able to attend my Grad.

OSAP. I have to register a three credit (i.e. half year) course, to upgrade to full time studenthood. I am currently most interested in Engl 2827, documentary film-making, but it doesn't appear to be offered. For further commentary on this issue, see previous blogs relating to school and administration.

I listened to my Happy music and had a cool discussion with a co-ordinator of Sudbury Transit. (see next blog).

Then I left school, while my friend's jump drive (which I borrowed) was still in the computer in the lab. A quick but pleasant jot over to the Uni and I had it back in my hot little mitts. Kinda restores your faith in people not stealing stuff, eh?

Dinner was a delish chili, made by Virginia. Chris was along for dinner as well. As we digested, Verge fought terror, Chris Limewired the new Rammstein and I chatted online with Verge's friend Lisa. Lisa is outgoing and fun, we've chatted before - it's time well spent.

I'm just thinking how nicely a cig would finish this evening... mmmm cigs!

Stalking about campus with a Rifle...

2006-09-27T13:46:00.000-07:00

I am not about to do it. I have far too much restraint and self control to go all Marc LePine on you guys. But here's an insight as to why that shit happens:

Administration / Bureaucracy

Now this is a rant, so if you've had a bad enough day and only want positive influi, then stop reading now. Months and months ago I applied for the Autumn convocation. At the time I asked "is there anything else I should know or do to make sure there are no snags?" The reassuring reply: "No, no. They would contact you to let you know if there is anything." So far so hoopy.

A couple months pass, I hear nothing. Being both shady and suspicious myself, I decide to make double sure. "Any problems at all?" I ask. "It's all good," the reassuring response. I felt better. Now, any reasonable person would leave it at that, comfortable in knowing everything is just so. I, as I stated earlier in different words, am hardly so reasonable. This is a condition instilled in large part by the fact that I have worked intimately with the bureaucracy of Laurentian University, viewing firsthand the inefficiency, ineptness, and general devil may care attitudes that have become so entrenched. The upshot: I went back twice more to check everything is going well and there are no blips on the radar. O faithful reader, you can likely guess that I was told "there are no blips on the radar at all." If you do the math, you will see that I had Four separate, individual assurances.

In the meantime, my poor immigrant parents, who got off the boat in search of a better life in the new lands are dying to see their son graduate, for this symbolizes the aspirations attainable in the land of promise and plenty. Mither writes often to find out any news about it. The poor dear.

Today, Sept. 27, Y.T. gets a letter from L.U. from which I quote:
"The Senate Committee on Academic Regulations and Award has reviewed your application for the Fall 2006 Convocation. According to our records, you will not be eligible to graduate as you will not have completed all of the program requirements."

I was fulminating! For the sake of you proper ladies and gentlemen readers, I will except the stream of invective that flowed from my mouth for the next half hour. Into L.U.'s admin I go, approaching critical mass. It seems I have a fail mark in RLST 3196 and I don't have the course COST 3006. Two problems right? - Wrong!

For three years I have pointed out the faults of the school in cross-referencing courses, in their lack of courses (the reason I am not in a Master's Program right now!), in their inability to give proper information on any of these topics. Have they ever once listened? Apparently not! You see. RLST 3196 ACTUALLY IS COST 3006! They Are the Same Freakin' Course! Not that administration can comprehend this, though it is their creation to begin with. Eventually this becomes understood and to give credit where due, Colette Rainville at the Registrar's Office took care of that lickety split. Like, on the spot as I watched, as fast as ever any problem was solved in that office. Thank you, Colette, you are wonderful!

Now the problem of a "Fail" still stood out. Here's the story on that. I took the course RLST 3196, and I kicked it's ass. For the most part, I kicked it's ass. You see, I failed to hand in one essay. I believe it was worth 25%. I had calculated my marks though and without the essay, I still had a definite pass (in fact a B if I remember correctly). A "B," without the essay! Instead of simply giving my lower mark, the prof decided to give me an incomplete. This dragged out for a while, in fact all last year. The incomplete cocooned on my transcript and eventually emerged as a beautiful jewel-winged "Fail." I spoke to the prof. She said "just gimme an essay." I thought "just gimme a lower damned grade."

Whatever! I gave a shortened essay early in the summer this year. I still have a Fail. I cannot reach the prof. She is not available. There are no office hours for her posted. The secretary has no clue when the prof is around. I can say from experience that the prof does not spend much time at the University outside of her classes. Classes, I might add, that were fun, interesting and stimulating. I would recommend them if not for the bullshit I am wading through right now. -Don't let it happen to you!

So I ask the secretary "when is her next class?"
Secretary: "Well, she doesn't have anything tomorrow..."
"..."
"..."
"..."
etc. for fully a minute and a half, when I finally realize she is not going to say anything else. "I Suppose the next day is Friday then," I impose on her, "Does she teach anything Friday?.."
"Oh, let's see..."
(fucking obstinate dullard).
So there it is, I go in Friday morning and I will either come out graduating or with somebody's face in my hands, to be fashioned into a grisly mask later on.

I suppose that if I weren't letting my emotions out so strongly, one might pity me. You all should have the good sense to fear this happening to you, as you likely know about this administration first hand. I Almost have an Aristotelian tragedy on my hands. (^_^).

Friday. If I'm smiling, say hallo. If my jaw muscles appear tensed and my eyes dart around a lot, stay the hell away from me!

Overlap

2006-09-21T15:03:00.000-07:00

Or more precisely connections. My life, as many of you have been told, is a web of coincidence - or synchronicity.

They told me that I would enjoy Dr. Orr's class. They were right. Granted, Plato is something of a pain in the arse sometimes. This is a subjective stance, which I support because Plato and I have differing views of how things need to get done. It's not that I think I am smarter than he was, after all I have two millennia of hindsight don't I? That said, let me simply add: Read Plato. I might not agree with him, but his work is important and in fact quite engaging.

Aristotle, on the other hand, is more my style. Tedious at times, but much more defensible and soundly constructed. It is in discussion of Aristotle that my Film and Genre class begins to connect with Dr. Orr's class. Aristotle would appear to be the beginning of Generic Types in Western thought - that is to say, the beginning of genre. In one day, we have seen the comparison with Semantic and Syntactic theories of critique. One fellow even brought us to the beginning of Ideological critique, though I doubt it was his intent. In fact, I doubt he realized what he was leaning towards.

Nonetheless, there is a sort of joyous feeling when I see the congruence between different classes. It makes me feel like things are running right. It enforces and bolsters my world view.

thanks to anonymous user:

2006-09-19T10:38:00.000-07:00

Someone came by here and read this blog, one who is not a regular visitor. They corrected some mistakes in the V for Vendetta entry. Thanks, anonymous. It was late and I was not thinking too clear. Thanks also for reading, hope you come by again...

Ah me!...

2006-09-14T12:35:00.000-07:00

Did I drop the lyrics in here yet? Even if I did, here they are again. This is one of my Happy songs and I've been listening to it a lot lately. Today I had an excellent reason to do so again. Share with me, sing along if you know the tune:

Climbing up on Solsbury Hill
I could see the city light
Wind was blowing, time stood still
Eagle flew out of the night
He was something to observe
Came in close, I heard a voice
Standing stretching every nerve
Had to listen had no choice
I did not believe the information
(I) just had to trust imagination
My heart going boom boom boom
"Son," he said "Grab your things,
I've come to take you home."

To keep in silence I resigned
My friends would think I was a nut
Turning water into wine
Open doors would soon be shut
So I went from day to day
Tho' my life was in a rut
"Till I thought of what I'd say
Which connection I should cut
I was feeling part of the scenery
I walked right out of the machinery
My heart going boom boom boom
"Hey" he said "Grab your things
I've come to take you home."
(Back home.)

When illusion spin her net
I'm never where I want to be
And liberty she pirouette
When I think that I am free
Watched by empty silhouettes
Who close their eyes but still can see
No one taught them etiquette
I will show another me
Today I don't need a replacement
I'll tell them what the smile on my face meant
My heart going boom boom boom
"Hey" I said "You can keep my things,
they've come to take me home."

(^_^)

I happened to find in the bowling alley a copy of the newspaper the Granma. It is a Cuban paper. I felt ten or fifteen years younger looking at it and thinking of my more political years. I was an idealist then. Apparently some Cubans tipped off the U.S. Gov't. about a bomb and a plane and subsequently Nothing exploded and Nobody was hurt. Naturally, the U.S., being appreciative, put the poor bastards in Jail! Lesson? Never trust the imperialist running dog lackeys, they will fuck you over for practice. The families of the incarcerated are apparently here in Canada trying to gain support for the victims. Fucking U.S.

Right! I was allowed a one page response (line breaks inserted randomly because I've no inclination to re-format just for xanga):

ENGL 4105EL 02: Theory and Criticism 13 Sept., 2006

For M. Orr, by Jason Simac, 172478

In consideration of excerpts from Plato’s Republic:

Keywords: "Good," "Truth," "Knowledge," "Reason," "Represent: (~ation), (~er)" - also "image,"

Further Keywords: "Yes," "Lackeys,"* "Underlying Assumptions"*

The main speaker, Socrates, under the notion of founding a new community, explores several guiding principles upon which his community should be built. These amount to codes of conduct, including a serious and extensive measure of artistic censorship and related emotional content. This, of course, is for the greater good of the community and therefore the individual, by dint of the fact that it holds with certain "truths" that the speaker holds up.

By trying to establish a notion of forms, the speaker wants us to believe that for any given set of things (e.g. beds), there is what equates to a divine version, called the Form. Taking as given the existance of both God and the gods (which he switches between as fits his argument), he seeks to establish that only their Forms are realities. To be clear, God or possibly the gods, conceived of the Bed, which is in all ways the perfect bed. The beds you and I sleep on are only copies. Furthertheless, any representation of a bed is merely a copy of the copy. The divinely inspired concept is Truth - the Truth of beds, one might say. What we sleep on is removed by some degree from Truth. An image of a bed is quite removed from Truth. His argument rather naively, but completely misses the idea that form follows function, a rather glaring omission, which might undermine his entire discourse were it included.

Since truth (Truth) is a cornerstone of building his better community, it must be preserved. Poets, especially Homer (and poor old Hesiod hot on his heels) are suggested to be completely unacquainted with truth in any of its guises. As such they are direct targets for censorship. The speaker does very graciously (if not convincingly) supply for the continuance of Homer’s work if it can be proved true overall - which it cannot if one accepts the speaker’s argument. Such are the direct ideas central to this writing.

On a higher level, one might infer that the speaker was rather downtrodden, seeking for life to be ordered, easier and "nice." He shrinks from emotion, indulgence and the possiblility of expression. To be fair, the kind of state or community he begins to seek has in various degrees been realized. Such states invariably fail to be the utopia the speaker seems to think he will create.

The word "lackey" is listed as key because it describes the other two characters in these passages. They speak considerably less, but must be acknowledged as just as important. This is so because it is they who continuously assert the veracity of the main speaker, whom supplies the argument. This scheme makes Plato seem as though he were too timid to just say what was on his mind. It is an irony that he uses a source twice removed from the contained concept of Truth to backup what is presented. The non-central characters, (there are two so that nobody can call them the very Form of the yes-man) are so encompassing in their approval, in their lack of exploring any alternative possibilities, that one must wonder if the author believed something very different and sought to prove it by arguing the other side very poorly. Not too charitable, perhaps, but there you go.

The writing is quite engaging, light and even fun because of the informality of it. Nothing is forced on the reader, instead the central character repeats himself "you make up your mind." The unerring capitulation of the secondary characters makes one feel that we are all on the same page, understand each other and isn’t it nice that we’ve solved all that? It has the same feeling of easygoing agreement that one experiences when talking to a politician who is trying to establish that he’s just an average Joe like the rest of us. The imagery tends to be quite common (beds, tables, horses), or at least not fancy or rich (caves). Again, this puts the reader at ease. The assertion of the central speaker’s "logic" and its understandability makes the reader feel as though they themselves are perhaps smarter than they realized. That feels good, doesn’t it?

The problem is that there are serious faults all the way through the main speaker’s reasoning (see Keywords and below). The central character imposes that those who don’t know what they are talking about have no business discussing it. Whether on purpose or not, the writer builds in certain clues that the central speaker is not really qualified in the areas he propounds on, thus ruining any credibility he might have with the power of his own argument. In this sense the central speaker comes off as a little poncy, and a little annoying, and it might do him well to follow Diomedes suggestion to "Sit down, shut up and listen..." Overall, the desire for life to be "nice" stands out as quite significant in the greater scheme of things. Here is an early example of the mentality that likely led to the rise of monotheistic religion over polytheistic religion. This transition was a huge influence on how the West viewed art, Truth, meaning and several other concepts touched on in Republic. Not much else seems particularly significant currently.

Notable fallacies: Straw Man, Ad Hominem, Non-Sequiturs abound

*Not appearing in the actual text, but definitely important.

No title blues

2006-09-05T18:20:00.000-07:00

Well my baby loves me truly
but she just can't come round no more
she can't come round no more

can't think of no title for this blog
but I swear this has never happened before
baby, swear it's never happened before

Man ain't nothin' if he can't write - Can I write?
follow me now, see what's in store.
said just read on, who knows what's in store...-

School

2006-09-02T14:56:00.000-07:00

Thank God! Praise Allah! Cthulhu Phthang!

When I was young and they called me grasshopper, all I wanted was the eternal summer. Never let it end, I would pray to any God or Goddess within earshot (which is most of them). I had brown skin and blonde hair and my feet were tougher than a bear's hide from running across sizzling pitch laden asphalt.

Somewhere along the way I didn't care so much. It must have been when I worked and there was no vacation.

These days I play a different tune. Of course I love summer, the vivacious season bringing adventure and opportunity, but... I want to be back in school

I have missed being in school since the first month away. I have just registered, with departmental permission, for the course Visual Rhetoric. You can see a good argument for that, eh?

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh Can't wait.

mm. more soon. take care.

langue time

2006-09-02T14:16:00.000-07:00

I studied the french language from first grade until twelfth grade, (when I became a high school dropout). It's not that I'm an idiot; I like to blame faults and shortcomings in the educational system for the fact that I can hardly make a relevant sentence in this gorgeous language. I will get back to studying it on my own terms soon.

In grades ten and eleven, part of twelve and for a year at Laurentian, I studied German. I love German. People think it is harsh and ugly sounding, but I insist that it is beautiful. I especially like their terms of endearment. (Compare with French; would you rather be someone's cabbage or their treasure?) - Treasure.

I Should have a decent handle of Spanish by now, though I don't. No offense, Mither, but you were the major influence in my lack of knowledge here. By far, Spanish has the best terms of endearment: mi ciel, mi vida, mi cafe amargo... (^_^) Poetic beyond my abilities! So romantic that even My heart of ice begins to thaw.

I am about to embark on a journey in Russian. My father understands Russian. He also understands White Russian, some Ukrainian, Serbian, Croatian and slowly spoken, enunciated Polish amongst others. I am rather green about his linguistic skill sets. I do speak a smattering of Serbo-Croatian, but it amounts to tourist level or less these days.

My mother is fluent in Finnish and I am downright envious. This is a language I have loved all my life. I can't begin to state why, but perhaps that's for the next entry. I reckon if a young lady were to proposition me in Finnish I'd Have to take it seriously.

I can swear like a sailor in Greek. I also know the names of several foods. Thanks to Stella, Maria, Jimmy, Jimmi and Jimmy at the restaurant for those relevant skills.

As a curiosity, there was a time in my life when I could tell someone to "take an aspirin every three hours" in nearly fifteen different languages. And it came in handy... ;)Though I profess I don't remember most of them.

Language is a thing that I suspect most people don't really choose. It chooses them. Your parents taught you Italian, or Finnish, or Greek, because it's what they spoke before they came here. Yes, they are keeping culture alive, but they are also keeping alive a different way of expressing the world. And that changes the world you will live in.

I once met a guy in Cuba who studied from youth and was fully fluent in no fewer than five languages. That is to say he did work as a translator for his government from time to time. He was learning two extras at the time we met. There are few men I admire as much as Michael Douglas in this world, but Hilario was one of them.

I often wonder how people come to choose what their second language will be. For that matter, what criteria makes a person choose their third language? Fourth? Etc...

French was not a choice for me. I love the language, but I am not sure I would have chosen it. I rather would have preferred Finnish. Nonetheless, I have some basic knowledge and wish to pursue it further. I think of those I chose, the biggest influence may be the cold war. Doesn't that sound stupid? German and Russian. Both have beautiful areas, magnificent and fascinating histories and a special sort of mentality that distinguishes itself. They were both the bad guys in the cold war, well one and a half of them were.

It helps, of course, that they are spoken in geographically diverse areas, by very large numbers of people. On this premise I would like to study Japanese, Chinese (probably Mandarin), Yiddish or Hebrew (likely the latter for academic purposes), Spanish or Portuguese and one of the Dravian languages.

As a reader you must think: "You'll never learn them all, Jay..." and you would be right.

*sigh*

I lost the actual point of this post, so I am replacing it with a request. If you know another language, tell me about it. Speak non-english to me. This works very well if you are using idioms that are region or dialect specific. I will be your best friend if you do...

Permit me to suggest the character of this dramatis persona

2006-08-15T13:12:00.000-07:00

Or, I think I have my Hallowe'en costume...

"Voila! In view, a humble vaudevillian veteran cast vicariously as both victim and villain by the vicissitudes of fate. This visage - no mere veneer of vanity - is a vestige of the vox populi; now vacant, vanished.

However, this valorous visitation of a bygone vexation stands Vivified and has vowed to vanquish these venal and virulent vermin vanguarding vice and vouchsafing the violently vicious and voracious violation of volition.

The only phatic, 'tis vengeance; a vendetta, held as a votive (not in vain)for the value and veracity of such shall one day vindicate the vigilant and the virtuous.

Verily, this vichissoize of verbiage veers most verbose, so let me simply add that it is my very good honour to meet you and you may call me... 'V'."

(not my words)

enough pissing and moaning, I made it official

2006-08-15T10:30:00.000-07:00

7 Aug., 2006

Alison Hood, Director
Communications Dept.,
Huntington University
935 Ramsey Lake Rd.
Sudbury, ON P3E-2C6

Dear Mrs. Hood

I am a recent graduate of the four year Communications Degree at Huntington University. During my time studying in this program, I have noted several points that I feel may be helpful for the staff that guide and facilitate the program. I do not mean to suggest that it is currently being run improperly. I understand the program is new and still developing. I offer the following ideas, thoughts and suggestions only in the hope of advancing the program development. It may well be that everything I include here has already been acknowledged, discussed, even acted on.

Perhaps the most important issue I can discern facing the Ba Communications at Huntington is the serious lack of fourth year courses. If one is considering doing studies at a Masters level, they will require a four year (honours) degree. The studies undertaken in classes referenced as fourth year are an important factor for applications committees when considering whether a candidate for higher learning should gain admission to an advanced or graduate program. Without undergraduate courses like this, degree holders from this program (such as myself) will find themselves denied the advancement they seek.

I am not sure of the feasibility of adding core courses to the Communications Program, but hopefully it is a topic that is getting much attention and favour amongst those who decide the structure of the program. Being inter-disclipinary in nature, the program has the potential to allow students to focus on very specific topics, chosen from a wide variety. At the moment there is not much variety at all. The topics in communications appear to be focused already by the previous experience of the professors. This is not all bad, by any means, though the benefit of more options should be clear. I feel this issue is very pressing.

Both of these concerns can be solved by the creation of courses at the fourth year level. Some topics I feel would be especially beneficial to the program are Advanced Linguistics, Semiotics, Corporate Communication and Comparative International Media examining cultural differences and similarities. I believe that a statistics based course, drawing from the disciplines of sociology, psychology and anthropology should be developed to address concerns in Communications Studies - especially the fact that such background tends to be required for research in many humanities-based master's degree programs. Finally, the issue of topical diversity can be easily addressed by development of courses based on directed readings, advanced individual or group studies and projects, thesis development courses and seminar based courses.

In lieu of an expanded repertory of core courses, a solution to subject limitation might be solved by cross-referencing relevant courses from other programs. Perhaps the multi-disciplinary nature of the program and the cost effectiveness of using pre-existing courses for credit in this degree could be an important factor in increasing the scope of studies. There are several relevant courses already offered by Laurentian University that come to mind: Rhetoric (English Dept.), Film Studies (any, English Dept.), Linguistics (Anthropology Dept.) and of course all modern language courses offer obvious crossovers that would require only slight modification to be perfectly suited for this program. Other courses suggest themselves as well, though the idea has been demonstrated.

Some concerns facing the Communications Program are common to all at Laurentian University. I am thinking of a problem that is quite beyond the administration of any one program in itself. I know now that professors and teachers lament elements of the computer system as much as the students do. Nobody can claim it is any small task to maintain such an extensive network. I mention this in the hopes that if enough students and staff voice this concern together, the issues will have to be acknowledged and corrected.

To whit; the interface has become archaic and ineffective, the content is often erroneous and misguiding and (conversely) omissions of important information occur in various sections of webadvisor. Further, there are frequent server crashes. These are serious deficiencies that affect all users in the Laurentian University community. I do not know whether computer services is under-staffed or under-equipped. Perhaps they are simply under-funded and cannot afford to make necessary system changes. Hopefully support from the community will help to bring them the resources they require and deserve.

Naturally, such factors as time, cost and available resources are restrictive factors in implementing large changes such as I have discussed here. It is foolish to effect change without consideration first. I hope the entire Communications Department will consider the issues mentioned in timely manner.

Most of my classes during this program were informative and well delivered. I have been fortunate to enjoy the guidance of excellent professors. The Communications Program at Huntington has plenty of potential, I look forward to seeing the evolution of an excellent program.

Respectfully,
Jason Simac.

Seasonal Obligations to self, (follow my example)

2006-07-30T11:55:00.000-07:00

Telling you to follow my example is a little poncy. You will bloody well ignore it anyway if you are so inclined, but at least do the reading:

It occurs to me that the seasons are a Major influence on life up here. I have quite by coincidence run into several people I know on the boardwalk this week. It has been quite pleasant. Have you been down to Ramsey this year?

I ask because I realize that I did not ice skate on Ramsey last year at all. Now I'm sure you realize that winter can kiss my pearly northern ass, But skating and skiing make up for winter's transgressions. By and Large. Ergo, one should get out and Do these things. Me? Not once. Neither activity. Haven't made a snowfort or had a decent snowball fight since I've lived here.

I don't particularly care if I am too old for such behaviour. Anyone who would like to make that suggestion will get a snowball for free, regardless of the current season, I have that power.

So the point I am working towards here is that there are things that match the seasons, which should be accompanied with each season. Here are some:

1) Winter: Skating Ramsey, Skiing - wherever but I guess Adanac, Snowball fight - preferably at School and well timed to include the more lighthearted and libertine profs, cafeteria workers and admin. Some will say Polar Bear dip - if you want to, may I suggest doing it but once, on New Year's Day. Loonies.

2) Spring: Spring Camp Downpour - if you don't get totally drenched you did it wrong, Hike one of the better trails, Low-Temp skinny dipping - also see above.

Educational Solutions for Young and Old.

2006-07-28T14:51:00.000-07:00

If you have heard my plight regarding advanced study, which I wish to do, you know that I am between a rock and a hard place. Should I bother to continue? Should I just find work and abandon intellectual pursuits?

Being fairly bloody-minded about things, and refusing to give up, I have found another solution to my problems. In fairness, the director of the MA program to which I was denied entry found this solution. Well, he pointed me in the direction. Enough! Athabasca offers distance education. They offer fourth year courses in Communications Studies. The courses look interesting.

This bodes well. Now my poor unsuspecting parents, whom I visit next week, will have to assist me here. I can get OSAP to re-imburse them, but I need their credit card to get me established with Athabasca.

This news will I break to them when, in a week, I visit their fair city to renew and refresh relations from my too much missed family. Bologna. Hamilton, sorry.

One gets tired of delays. Frustrated. Nonetheless, here I go for an Extra year of it.

Attrition

2006-07-19T13:19:00.000-07:00

Damn straight I've used this title before. If you're looking to discern my state of mind by titles, you can figure with 90% accuracy that when i use the word "attrition" I am digging in for a fight. You can figure that I am developing that sort of dog mentality, that special bloodimindedness that has taken me so far so many times.

It is becoming more and more difficult to find fourth-year courses available to me. Let this be a caveat to anyone in an honours degree program. Philosophy is a no-go. Same with women's studies. Theatre and classics were already out of consideration.

Fuck it! This is frustrating. Furthertheless, course listings are now available to students Exclusively by web-advisor. Fuck.

Failure...

2006-07-18T15:18:00.000-07:00

I don't think this is the first time I've used this title. It likely won't be the last of course, but who likes to admit that?

I was officially turned down today for the MA Humanities Program that I applied for. The director of the program cited two chief reasons: I did not meet the mid-B requirements, but more importantly I have no fourth year courses from which the applications committee could assess my ability to work in this program.

As for the grades, my cumulative GPA is 73.72%, a mere 1.3% under guidelines. Actually, the booklet "School of Graduate Studies" distributed by Laurentian University states the requirement to be "a minimum of B standing in a four-year humanities degree, or equivalent." So it is disappointing to see that amongst its various divisions LU has a problem in communication.

The tone of the letter implied that this 1.3% deficit in GPA was something that the apps committee may have overlooked, if only I had some good showing for the other requirement.

Ironically, the BA Communications at LU offers no fourth-year courses whatsoever and precious few third-year courses. Now the program I sought entry for is multi-disciplinary, so I checked for fourth-year courses in related areas of interest. Classics: no fourth-year courses available. Theatre: no fourth-year courses available. Even the English program has a very restricted set of fourth year courses. Most of them have a minimum of 24 credits (nearly a full year) as pre-requisite. Women's Studies, Philosophy and Religious Studies each have one fourth-year course without listed pre-requisites. So does Geography.

This, too, is rather deceptive. Last year my friend Neil and I registered for a four thousand-level course in Religious Studies with no listed pre-req, only to arrive and be told that we were absolutely Not allowed to take part because of a lack of pre-requisite courses. You can see my dilemma. Essentially, unless you have studied in a field that specifically leads to these upper year courses, you're not going any further.

Now I am not arguing that there should be said upper-level courses. I understand the importance of them for assessment of ability. I suppose I should have intuited that they would be mandatory. I don't know how many courses are required, though I hope to hear back from Program Director Laurence Steven, who has recommended I take some four thousand-level courses to build qualifications. He seems genial, I'm sure he will respond soon.

More than anything, I simply wish to vent my frustration at the fact that, wittingly or not, Laurentian appears to have set up some students for failure. Surely this is not faculty's fault. I have spoken to many members of faculty who have expressed their own frustration with different aspects of administration. Everyone understands the economy of it all; more funding units equals better quarterly reports. Standards must be maintained, however.

Until this resolves, it will be the students who get hosed. If you are a student, (and that's roughly Half the people who read this), be careful. Take nothing for granted at this institution. Plan ahead. Well ahead, and go seek as much information as you can get..........

Waiting...

2006-07-14T14:16:00.000-07:00

You all know it. Sympathize with me.

I am waiting Stil for L.U. to tell me whether I am in the program or not.
The cheque cleared last week for processing. I Neeeeeed an answer!

Waiting sucks. You all know it.

Bull Rush

2006-07-14T14:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, Mattarazi admits to trash-talking Zidane. I don't like even the phrase trash talking, it seems to take the edge off the viciousness that it contains. If you doubt that, you've likely never been trash-talked. Mattarazi should be fined. I mean this isn't (American) football or Hockey.

HOWEVER (note the raw size of that however), Zidane should be Heavily fined. Thanks for the apologies and all, especially to the kids, that's hunky dory, dude.

Really? Some people theorized that Zidane sensed the game tanking and didn't want to be part of the loss. This is unlikely. Frankly, the longer it went, the more chance France had. I am Amazed that Italy won shootouts, given the fact that France seems to get by on penalty kicks. It was even less likely given Italy's tragic love affair with the crossbar. I was going to yell "Don't pull a Baggio!" but I was at Caruso Club and wanted to leave in one piece.

So what made a normally gentlemanly player lose his mind in the face of an insult? Cuz you must realize it is Not the only time this has occured (i.e. trash-talk).

I think it derives from the fact that France (again) pulled it's only goal off a penalty kick and the Italians, who are only supposed to win if they score early, managed to come back with their own Earned goal. This, combined with the fact that France simply couldn't beat Buffon in regular play must have been an influence, if not a reason.

I never had anything against Zidane. He always seemed likeable,for the Most part (this isn't the first time he's been Ignorantly violent), but that really took the shine off his career. And that made me angry at first, but now it just makes me sad to see someone go out like that.

Kids

2006-07-14T13:57:00.000-07:00

I have spent the last hour or so (slightly more perhaps) with Vic and his daughter Kahlan. If ALL children could be this cool, I would likely have had some ages ago. Unfortunately most children are Not this cool. Therefore I have spent ages looking for the kind of person that I Want to have children with. There's only one.

Then again, it's probably best to wait until I am Rich. I have no intention of spoiling my child, mind you. I just want to see to it that all eventualities can be covered with ease.

Simacia

2006-06-28T11:42:00.000-07:00

Does it bother any of you who read this that there are no photos?
Does it bother any of you that there is no video?
Does it bother any of you that there is, in fact, no audio even?

I keep toying with the idea. If any of you feel it would Improve your reading experience, let me know and I will begin to make changes.

I am in a computer lab at school. There are folks trying to work here. The woman at the next row of machines has opted to bring in her children, including a crying baby. I call the crying baby "squawky brat."

Maybe that's harsh. There are places and times, though, and I feel no remorse at pointing out that this is Neither.

Quarter Finals

2006-06-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

Germany vs. Argentina! I am quite pulling for Germany, however if it is well played I can accept the latter winning.

Italy vs. Ukraine! Ulrich assures me that the Ukes made the last round off a penalty gained by diving. I watched the last game and it was more than made up for. Go Ukraine!

England vs. Portugal! I've never really cared for England one way or the other. I've liked Portugal and Figo is right cool. But: Portugal outstepped reasonable bounds last game. Really really. So I suppose still Portugal but no biggie if England wins.

Brazil vs. France! Give credit where due: France put Spain away in style. They were slick. As previously mentioned though, I've been cheering Brazil since 1978. This will Not be similar to '98, either. At least this time the Brazilian captain will not be stoned out of his gourde.

Ronaldo! Lotsa people don't care for him. Lotsa people mock him. Say what you want, the fact is he just set a World Cup record for most goals scored. Should they beat France, the record will increase and be even harder to beat. Turns out most of the world will have to eat some crow as he really Did have something to contribute.

Jay Update...

2006-06-26T18:56:00.000-07:00

The Twelfth Night has run its course and will be no more. I am debating whether to post pictures from it or not. While I think about it, feel free to email for some if you are so inclined.

I have not been writing for a while (seems like a long time). I think I shall do a soccer assessment at the end of the current round (round of 16) which is nearly done now.

Of course I must comment on it a little, so here it is. No big loss with Switzerland out. Their match today against Ukraine was one of the dullest matches I've seen in a while. The commentator said (quite accurately I feel) that it felt like a 'friendly' in pre-cup play. It went to penalty shots after more than 120 minutes. At this point the swisss keeper fell apart. Meh.

I need work. Some of you know this is an eternal struggle for me. I am contemplating going to the Barr Clinic to get breasts - then I will easily score some work at a bar or tavern in this town. Apparently breasts are pre-requisite excepting the rarest circumstances.

If I should have emailed any of you, call or write to kick my ass and it will be along shortly.

Apology and Retraction

2006-06-20T15:22:00.000-07:00

from the post "How Latent is That?"

I aplogize for misguiding the reader and slighting America in analysis of Operation Mount and Thrust.
It has been suggested to me that in fact, Canada named the operation when joining it. I would not be surprised if this is true, though I cannot tell you for certain.
I was in general rant against the state of things and got outright sloppy. Sometimes we must re-learn lessons that have already been taught and here's mine: Get the Facts. I operated without them and have been called on it. Thanks to Stephen Falvo for pointing it out.

Overall, the fact that America endures so much slagging for things like foreign policy does Not make this error any more excusable. I promise more diligence in further rants. For the record, my stance changes little, but it is more important to me to be accurate.

Politics are depressing. I don't follow politics like I once did. Same with wars. I am beginning to believe that it really doesn't make a difference. Wars are even more depressing. Politicians making wars for Profit... well, follow the line of thought.

Again: I was wrong and openly say so. For some of you this will null and void any other argument I ever present. For others it will make no difference at all.

P.S. congratulations America. I say this in advance of the fact, but I expect your team to go through to the next round of World Cup play. Good luck with that.

World Cupdate

2006-06-19T12:40:00.000-07:00

The following teams are through regardless: Ecuador and Germany, England and Sweden unless T&T can make-up the goal deficit, Argentina and Netherlands, and Brazil.

I have missed a whole series of games as of late and am rather not happy. I Did catch Ukraine making up for the pounding they took from Spain, by giving Saudi Arabia what for. Saudi played with some tenacity I must say, but there it is. I worry about how Ukraine will fair against Tunisia.

Side thought here: there is a book called "the biggest tongue in Tunisia," which I highly suggest, should you ever come across it. In fact, seek it out.

Right, soccer! It is the half between Spain 0 - 1 Tunisia as I write this line. Wouldn't that seriously upset the order of things? Apparently it's Spain been putting all the pressure on.

And with that, I'm outta here for now.
Edit To Add: Spain is through to next round for certain now, following an amazing three goal comeback begining in the 71st minute

Missed soccer

2006-06-15T11:54:00.000-07:00

Not that I've exactly Missed some of these games, but for good form I should be giving you all the info on it. Recently:
Germany 1 - 0 Poland. Apparently the Polish were not too damn happy.
Ecuador 3 -0 Costa Rica. :)
England 2 - 0 Trinidad / Tobago.

Let's make some revision at this point, my fianl take on who progresses and what matches to watch on the way.

Group A: Germany and Ecuador will go through, though Ecuador more impressively. Don't miss the match between these two division toppers, it should be magnificent. I am personally pulling for Ecuador.

Group B: I maintain England and Sweden, but T&T could prove me wrong. That would be pretty cool. England and Sweden duke it out on the 20th; this should be the definitive match of the group.

Group C: I still say Argentina will progress, but I simply will not call the rest yet. It looks like Netherlands at the moment, but that can change... All matches in this group should be good entertainment.

Group D: Mexico and Portugal. Unless Iran can beat Portugal, and with that piss poor showing the other day, it is possible. I like Portugal, but I think Iran has become my one middle east team I like - if they keep it up. Big game? Mexico vs. Portugal.

Group E: Tune in on the 17th to watch Italia dash America's hopes. Also don't miss the Czechs and Italia - I am hoping the Czechs will lead their division. Sorry America and Ghana, don't take it too hard.

Group Ffffffff!: Nothing can stop Brazil from going through. Don't miss any of their games (spot the bias). The only thing that can stop Croatia from going through is if the Socceroos dig deep down and pull off a serious upset. Three points on Japan is one thing, but they will face a different opposition with the rest of their division. Japan, though they have character, well y'know...

Group G: With South Korea leading the division in points right now, I will say there is a chance for them to progress. It is Koreas games that will hold the public i think. I cannot call the rest, except to say that Togo will not go through.

Group H: I originally wanted to see Spain and Ukraine go through. Thanks to the draw between the other two nations, it is still possible. I sat watching the webcast Begging God for a draw. She delivered. Watch Spain and Ukraine.

How latent is that?

2006-06-14T10:09:00.000-07:00

I understand Canada is involved with the U.S. led Operation that is current right now - Operation Mount and Thrust. Oh! Sorry Mountain Thrust. Let's go into those hills and show those dirty Taliban who's boss! (Oooohhhh! You're ssssooooo - dominant! ;) Y'know those Taliban that We put in power a couple years back?

I also understand that there are More reports of torture in camp X-ray. Looks like the U.S. have been a load of hypocrites all the way along. As for the idea of zero tolerance against terrorism, well we knew that was a lie to start, what with their government supporting terror gourps themselves.

What a farce! Holy overt latency, Batman! The parade of compensation just never ends with the government of our southern neighbours, does it?

Mixed Feelings...

2006-06-14T08:01:00.000-07:00

Soccer again.
Spain 4 - 0 Ukraine.
Now I have liked the spanish side for a long time. I have often said that I would like to see them take a cup. However, Everyone likes an underdog, especially one who comes in with such a good record. If you don't like underdogs go away now.

That is a fairly crushing defeat. Just remember that Spain has a history in the cup that is unapproachable by the rest of this group. I am really hoping that Ukraine, rebounds, spirits high, and Crushes Tunisia and Saudi Arabia. Hang in there. I am certain they will still go through

A rare side?

2006-06-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

Yeah, those last two were reaaaal cute, eh?
We all have our sentimental, silly moments. So I let my guard down.
Prolly won't happen again for quite a while...

Dog Songs (addition to rat songs)

2006-06-14T07:59:00.000-07:00

Dog songs occur just as frequently as rat songs. I felt something slightly incomplete at the end of the last entry so here is my favourite dog song. It was written by Nora, a black and white bundle who Proves that Energy really Does equal mass times the square of the speed of light!
(sung to the theme tune from the once popular show 'I dream of Jeannie,')
"I am - I am the puppy
you are -you're not a scientist
you can't - you can't change
my D.N.A!
de dada dada dada
laaaa la
lala la laaala
laaaa la
lala la laaala..."

I would also like to acknowledge Shannon Bart-St. James, possibly one of the greatest purveyors of instant, off the cuff and improvised animal songs ever. Her endearing rhymes for Icky-gnomy-gnomy, Noˇc and Zu-zu have always been the hallmark of fine animal songs.

Rat Songs

2006-06-14T07:46:00.000-07:00

Those of you with pets; you all do it. Some of you hide it and some of you share it, but we all speak for our pets. Eventually we make songs based on the perceived characters of our pets. I do it too.

My primary influence has been the rats with whom I have lived. There is a definitive character amongst rats I have known that leans their bardic fervour towards specific topics, namely: Cheeeeeese. Not to slot rats into a specific perception in society, but the fact is they sing a lot about cheese. Kind of like Dwarves singing about gold. "Gold, gold, gold, gold... Gold, gold, gold, gold..." I have read where dwarves in fact love iron more than gold, but it plays merry hell with the meter of their traditionally sung forms.

There is a loose knit sort of format to the typical rat song. It starts off with some lyrics which may even seem poignant, as though leading in to more profound realities, but some kind of cheese will always be mentioned. From there the original concept will be more closely linked with cheese. Invariably, the lyrics eventually devolve to cheese, cheese, cheese, etc...

An excellent example of this is witnessed with the remake of Moby's "We are all made of stars," created by my beloved, bewhiskered rodent roommates a few years back;
"Growing in numbers, growing in cheese
Can't fight the future, you are what you eat
People they eat some cheddar,
People they eat some brie
Noone can stop us now...
So won't ya give us some cheese
Cheese is so cheesy
and I do not mind
surrounded by cheeses
in front and behind
People they eat some cheddar,
People they eat some brie
Noone can stop us now...
So won't ya give us some cheese
Cheese is so filling
I feel cheese in me
Monterey Jack,
Feta and Brie
we are all made of cheese
(we are all made of cheese)
we are all made of cheese
chee-chee-chee-cheese...
*fade to silence*

You see? The song "Slinky Rat" does not in fact mention cheese anywhere in it. The lyrics are "Slinky Rat, (do doo, doodeleh doo), Slinky Rat (do doo, doodeleh doo) *key change, repeat*" It is the exception to the rule though. I aspire to eventually put together all the rat songs I have heard over the years.

The most recent one has obviously been inspired by World Cup, as all the rats I know have been hearing me chanting in support of my teams. They seem to have adapted the chant as follows:
"aaa loooooot a looot a looot of cheeeeeese,
aaaaa loooot oooof cheeeeese,
aa loooooot a looot a looot of cheeeeeese
aaaa loooot oooof cheeeeese"
If you don't know the original chant, you are sorely out of the loop.

Brazil! on two fronts...

2006-06-13T18:59:00.000-07:00

So I will try and keep the beginning brief, but Surprise! Soccer!

Two very likeable teams played today: Brazil played and Croatia, who have been referred to as the 'Brazil of Europe,' played. This was a fun match! Fuuuuuunn-nuh! Yes the favourites in yellow and green won the day. But I cannot say Croatia lost. Both sides played well, with heart and vigour and both sides should be proud of their game.

If this game is the indicator, Japan and the Socceroos simply will not progress. Kind of too bad, as everyone should like the 'roos after that amazing comeback. Nonetheless - Croatia! - Brazil! Pure entertainment. Email me for a more complete description if you are so inclined!

Brazil, on the other front: I was blogstorming recently and came across some cool graphics. They are work examples done by a Brazilian civil engineer. Brazil! So I commented. and a response came. and I commented again. Possibly a new friend in the southern hemisphere...

France, Switzerland, bit of a disappointment but we have certainly seen worse in this cup. It was a good enough lead in to the real sport today.

C'est tout, mes amies. Plus a avenir demain.

Leave Nobody Behind

2006-06-12T13:56:00.000-07:00

There are a number of people I have seen very little of lately. Now some of you I Can't see and that makes me sad, but I am thinking of you. Others, I Can see and will soon. Yes I caught my old friend teh Jenner online today briefly. We haven't done anything in months or years possibly.

For those of you I haven't seen in a while, because of my debilitating case of getting too little done (I think it's a mid-life crisis) don't hesitate to get in touch. I will Find time for you. Aside from getting a half decent job, making time for you is my number one summer project.

As for you crazy kids in Toronto and Hamilton, and you Know who you are, I Really miss you! Steve, Agneiszka, Tia, Jon, Anita, Bill, Shannon, Kai & Esme (^_^) When the opportunity presents itself I shall seize it. Just understand that I don't have the recourse to Create the opportunity yet.

aaaaaaand keep yer fingies X'd 4 me, that such a circumstance will change - for these things can turn on a dime and Bang! Next thing you know there's a Jay visiting you!

It comes in threes

2006-06-12T12:06:00.000-07:00

Australia faced 84 minutes of Japan without scoring. During this time, The blue samurai had already scored. It was looking bleak. Then in the course of roughly 8 minutes. Aus (aka the Socceroos) pounded the tar out of th poor Japanese with 3 Goals! Ouch! Their next game is with 5 time world cup champions Brazil.

The Czechs played down America today, 3-1. Beautiful scoring there and who can be surprised at the outcome. I, who rarely give America any slack at all, will say this much: somewhere around the 24 minute mark one American made for goal and hit the crossbar. It could have been a Magnificent goal and after watching the replay about a dozen times, I wish it had gone in - not just for the guy who made the play, but for aesthetics in general.

The Azzuri are not even 10 minutes in to playing Ghana. I think this one is a no-brainer... I am looking for Italy to get three goals, even considering their extremely defensive style. If I am right then there will be three sets of three goals.

Edit to Add: My bad. Ita 2 - 0 Gha. Apparently it was a good game to watch. I wouldn't know. Still, if you take the Japan goal and add it to the Azzuri goal, you get three even. So there is simply a fractured symmetry here. Sort of.

Restoring the Sparkle

2006-06-11T10:49:00.000-07:00

If this morning's game was somewhat bland, as I have intimated, it was more than made up for with the first match of the afternoon between Mexico and Iran. Excuse me, I started while the match was still on... It's over now and here's my take.

I like Mexico and would love to see them progress. I haven't cared one way or another about any of the Mid-East teams. That said, It was not surprising to see Mexico score first. What was a pleasant surprise was the style and push exhibited by Iran.

Moments after Mexico's first goal (their only goal in the first half), I stated it would be nice to see a 2-1 finish in favour of Mexico. Something about Iran's play made me like them enough to want to see them score. Well score they did, a short time later. I felt very good for both teams.

The second half came to me by webcast, which said "The second half has not, in truth,been of the same quality as the first." Mexico scored twice. Nice. Still, kudos to Iran for a stimulating matching in the first half.

For the people who regularly read this coloumn, I promise something more in my regular vein shortly. Hang in there.

Tactics...

2006-06-11T10:42:00.000-07:00

What gets a Jay out of bed at the unsaintly hour of 7:45? World Cup Soccer! If you've read previous posts you should have guessed that. If you know me at all, you should have guessed that.

At 9 a.m. today Serbia Montenegro played against Netherlands. There was good game, but it lacked a certain sparkle I have to say. Netherlands won off a goal around the 20 minute mark from Robben. The guy was definitely player of the match. His single goal, persistence and close shots were entertainment throughout.

Serbia Montenegro played a good defense with spurts of offense, but their main issue was tactical decisions. Their aim, their sense of where to put the ball was off in many instances throughout the match. This is not in reference to hitting the net, but instead in moving the ball to each other.

Both sides played what felt like cautious aggression, which left me feeling a little bland. That's okay, I suppose, as it was their first game.

Fake it for me

2006-06-10T14:57:00.000-07:00

Because nobody else ever Has to ;) Just for a short response, pretend you are interested in soccer...
...please?

Another one Missed!

2006-06-10T14:19:00.000-07:00

I have yet to see a world cup game and it is too damn bad. Of the five that have run, the most recent is being called the best.

Argentina, previous cup winners have just finished playing a match with Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast). The final score is Arg 2-1. Tomorrow promises more great game with my main interest being Serbia Montenegro squaring off with the Netherlands at 9 in the morning. Tune in!

To you whom I should be watching this with: Wish you were here. Sooner or later we Have to catch a match or two together!

Update Soccer...

2006-06-10T13:16:00.000-07:00

I can't say it is surprising England won, but nobody saw this coming, in review of the game I missed, it turns out to be because of an Own Goal! Now that sucks hardcore for the poor bastard who did it...

Of course, I love England. I would live there. I love their enthusiasm. but when they Do win they sometimes go overboard on the whole WEEEEEEEEEE Won thing. This is simply an interpretation of the media representation I have seen. I would still live there in a heartbeat.

Nonetheless, sucks for England to have to win by not even scoring the goal themselves! Well I see no gloating about this win yet, so fair play to Blightey.

Trinidad and Tobago was one of those teams that I didn't know much about and so I tried not to call them. HowEver! They drew up close to the Swedes and held the match nil / nil all the way through! That's right,it was a draw. If that isn't impressive enough for a team that's never been to the Cup before, they did this while being down by a man for a good chunk of the second half!

Wow, T&T, I am impressed. Let's all keep watching for these guys, they may a heavy upset. Coming shortly (an hour or so) Argentina vs. Cote d'Ivoire

It's begun...

2006-06-09T11:47:00.000-07:00

I reckon I am one of millions who will write on this topic today. I am not doing it for fame, but for the point of dispersing the info to those of you who wouldn't be affected except for reading my chickenscratch.

The FIFA World Cup began today, with host nation Germany playing the first match to Costa Rica. I did not Watch the game, alas, it was not an option. So I am not giving you the big breakdown on it, just relevant facts.

It should be no surprise whatsoever that Germany won. They are coming into this tournament with a heavy popular conception of possible winners (i.e. in My terms contenders against Brazil). Full time of 93 minutes produced a score of 4-2 for the hosts.

I am somewhat happy for Costa Rica in fact, because they did get two goals and I pegged them for merely one. Both of CR's goals came from Wanchope, a player I am not too familiar with yet. Fonseca took a yellow card fairly early on.

Lahm scored first for Germany and Frings scored last. Frings is a name you will hear again, cannot say for Lahm - don't know him too well.
Here is the name to remember for those of you who aren't following too closely: Miroslav Klose. He scored twice for Germany in this game. Four years ago he was being touted as one of the big up and comers. Hopefully he will give us some good viewing.

So there it is! It has begun! Part of me wishes I was in a bigger city for this, but then again it doesn't matter does it? I shall maintain the enthusiasm for All of you who can't be enthusiastic about it.

Tomorrow

2006-06-07T21:27:00.000-07:00

Look, I guess I have to be the bad guy sometimes so let me do it swiftly: The Ice Has Melted. Hockey is Irrelevant. (not always, but certainly right now).

That said, let us all rejoice in anticipation of the imminent best sporting event in the world!

Giving up on video games

2006-06-07T21:19:00.000-07:00

I didn't see this coming. Video games are a comfort thing for me. I take delight in getting good at some of them and then reclude to the sanctuary of them when reality really sucks. Now this process is dying, somehow.

I don't want video games. What I want right now, at this point in my life, is in fact a person and video games would be a small sacrifice. For the curious, it is a specific person, but y'know circumstance gets in the way.

I don't know what to do about it. Goodbye, video games, you were good for a long time, I'm sure you'll always be around. Bye...

---

...Are ya out there? I know you're there...

Angelo and Erica:

2006-06-07T21:14:00.000-07:00

I just want you two to know, (actually I suspect Erica doesn't read this, so I am really writing just for Angelo, though this applies to both of them) I just want you to know that I still read your blogs.

I don't respond because you have to be Xanga to respond and I have forgotten my name and password as far as Xanga is concerned. I am too damned lazy to re-register. I am shameless in my laissez faire attitudes. I am sure you will accept this with all good graces.

Compare Root to Simac on movies...

2006-06-07T20:04:00.000-07:00

That's right, this old shack has the same quiz. I love boosting shit from Root. Maybe one day he will even get angry about it. Go over to his blog and compare our answers.

1) What film made you angry, either while watching it or in thinking about it afterward?

Celsius 41.1
Oh! No!
I haven't even seen this Twin (fuckin') Towers movie and I'm right done with it. E! Nuff! Irate!

2) Favorite sidekick

Rosenkrantz in R&G are dead.

3) One of your favorite movie lines

I pick favourite lines out of the film itself, there is no favourite of all films. How could there be? Here's some pretty cool ones though. "Kiss kiss,... Bang bang" or "I can't stand the Stench of lies..." or "Gentleman you can't fight here, this is a warroom!" or "-Fucker!" in response to the line "you're one ugly mother-"... This one is always good: "All those memories will be lost, like tears in the rain" and of course everyone is partial to the scream Lola delivers in the casino which I cannot transcribe even with the IPA at my disposal. Ooh! "My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die" or how about "Get on with it!" Prime material this one: "They cut the power! what do ya mean they cut the power? Their just animals man"this goes on and on. just ask for more and I can email you.

4) William Holden or Burt Lancaster?

Burt Lancaster is a person whom we used to make fun of by relating him as someone our parents watched. kind of a film equivalent to "adult contemporary" you follow? What was the question? I don't know: Burt Lancaster.

5) Describe a perfect moment in a movie

Lula and Sailor stop at some little place in the desert. He's inside. At the end of a porch which runs the length of the building sits an old black man on a rocking chair. Lula walks the length of the porch. Lula pauses. The old man acknowledges her existence without words. Lula walks back down the porch. The wind continues to blow.

6) Favorite John Ford movie

I am not goint to IMDB to pretend that I know every director for you. Could we say John Waters instead? Yes? - Pink Flamingoes.

7) What film artist (director, actor, screenwriter, whatever) has the least–deserved good reputation, artistically speaking. And who would you replace him/her with on that pedestal?

Julia Roberts. Same answer as Root. Replace with a brick.

8) Barbara Stanwyck or Ida Lupino?

Ida Lupino, I reckon. Stanwyck was Jeanie wasn't she? Ida Lupino I recognize by namesake and have no clue otherwise. Did the quizwriter try to be somewhat obscure on purpose?

9) Showgirls-- yes or no?

No. I bet most of you thought I would say yes. but I do not. I say no.

10) Most exotic or otherwise unusual place in which you ever saw a movie

40,000 feet above the Caribbean?

11) Favorite Robert Altman movie

See answer 6. And the last of answer 8

12) Best argument for allowing rock stars to participate in the making of movies

Our amps go to 11.

13) Describe a transcendent moment in a film (a moment when you realized a film that just seemed routine or merely interesting before had become become something much more)

Predator elects not to kill Maria whatsername in the subway because she is pregnant and predators don't kill innocents. It hitherto never occured to me that a character like predator could be 'developed.'

14) Gina Gershon or Jennifer Tilly?

Jennifer. I like the name. I don't care otherwise.

15) Favorite Frank Capra movie

Only one I've seen: It's a Wonderful Life. So much as Root said. However, if I hear one more Bad impression of Jimmy Stewart (What's that ya say Mary) I will likely vomit on the person who did it.

16) The scene you most wish you could have witnessed being filmed

When the death star exploded! I wonder what kind of ship they would have given me? An A-wing with a telephoto lens prolly, so's I could get the long shot...

17) Robert Ryan or Richard Widmark?

Enough with this shit. Who cares?

18) Name a movie that inspired you to walk out before it was finished

There have been two in my life. I cannot remember them, not even their names. Thank Heavens.

19) Favorite political movie

Apocalypse Now, or Dr. STrangelove or how I learned to stop worrying and love the bomb. That one where Will Smith was chased by the NSA or somewhat was decent too. Does Casablanca count? I like old war movies too: A bridge too far, Night of the Generals, Where Eagles Dare and the Dirty Dozen were enjobyable for me.

20) Your favorite movie poster, or the one you’d most like to own

Any of the ones my friend Bill did. I'm not really a poster kind of guy (as anyone who has seen me naked knows...) so I don't really care.

21) Jeff Bridges or Jeff Goldblum?

Goldblum I expect. Why?

22) Favorite Ken Russell movie

Who? what now? I don't fuckin' know.

23) Accepting the conventional wisdom that 1970-1975 marked a golden age of American filmmaking in which artistic ambition and popular acceptance were not mutually exclusive, what for you was this golden age’s high point? (Could be a movie, a trend, the emergence of a star, whatever)

Endless Summer, baby! ooooohhhhh yeah! giggity giggity! - No.
Is that conventional wisdom? I didn't know it was CW. I don't know enough to answer this question with any depth.

24) Grace Kelly or Ava Gardner?

Without a doubt, Grace Kelly. I have been in love with this woman since my parents let stay up to watch Dial M for Murder on Magic Shadows with Elwy Yost. Not sure how old I was but I know I was definitely speaking. Grace Kelly was my Hollywood love before the waif (godblessher) and still stands as a model of perfection that can only be parallelled and never surpassed. When I think of Grace I weep for all the sad sacks in Hollywood these days. She made it truly glamorous. Actually, I think I will just write a separate entry for Princess Grace. yeh yeh Ava's okay, whatever. As if you could put the two beside each other. Stupid fuckin question.

25) With total disregard for whether it would ever actually be considered, even in this age of movie recycling, what film exists that you feel might actually warrant a sequel, or would produce a sequel you’d actually be interested in seeing?

Thelma & Louise: Escape to the Afterlife!
*recovers from laughing fit* k, hold on...
Dead Alive?
hard question...

bananas

2006-06-06T19:14:00.000-07:00

The spear of destiny appears on my friend's television. I do not flinch. The cursor disappears to an entirely different field on my screen. I am prepared. The dog chews his slimy rawhide and drops it in my lap. Gross, but no issue.
The mice run across the kitchen floor, the tool shed (with the chainsaws) belches dust and filth, the messenger blinks inanely with distant news of migraines and fine dining. The sky streaks itself pinkish, like a week old gash healing nicely. The coffee drips slowly and prepares to start my day.

I am missing something important, but I won't tell you what it is. Many other things fail to affect me because of this, yet I am optimistic. I have been up too long. I am lethargic and pedantic. I should make it an early night. Tomorrow will be a busy day. A busy day makes a happy Jay. A happy Jay has things to say.

Bongiorno, Avespa!

2006-06-01T15:19:00.000-07:00

Mr. Root came over to watch some Izzard the other day. We sat in the doorway while I smoked, for it is not good to smoke in the house. I passed through this same portal I speak of a dozen times that day. Once there was a honkin' big damned flying, stinging insect. I killed the insect and wondered where it came from. Whatever.
Yesterday I opened the door to find out precisely why there have been three wasps in my house in the last week. There is, as some of you psychic types already realized, a paper nest half the size of my fist hanging in my door frame for the world to see and recoil in horror at.
A freakin' Nest in construction! I can hear you all gasping and thinking 'what would I do if it happened to me?' Sit back and I will tell you what I did. First, I thought, I needed a ranged weapon. If any of you have ever gone into hand to hand combat with a wasp (especially a large one) you realize the odds are against you. It's not the sting of course, but the fact that they have six arms. Let me do the math for you: it means you are outgunned three to one just for starting.
I reasoned that if there is poison in the little bugger's tip, then I should retaliate with poison and feel no moral quandary with it. Weapon of Choice (not Christopher Walken) Windex. Yup, cuz it has a significant amount of ammonia in it and ammonia kills well over 99.9% of known lifeforms. Further, one shot in mist form and a flying thing of 3 grams or less will simply drop to the floor and be confused for a moment.
Can't you just see the vicious winged terror getting to (all six of) its knees and pondering: "well I was flying a moment ago..." Yes, that evens the odds plenty I'd say.
It was windex that also comprised the main assault on the wasp outpost, a branch office of Stinging Buggers Inc. Perhaps one day I will find the head office and take my consumer complaints right to them, but likely not. No really, I don't care if you're a wasp, I really don't. Just don't build your house onto mine. Just don't fly in like you own the place. Like the Jehovah's Witnesses have been known to do. Come to think of it, a lot of Them are wasps too, eh?
My longest standing friend Lara Thornton once brought a paper wasp nest to school for show and tell. It was so cool! A little frightening too, though. The nest was about.... two feet tall? Yup.
More on this later... Rehearsal now.

To all of you I haven't been in personal contact with lately, forgive me, it has been a long and hard working week. There have been very early mornings (for me) and extended days (also for me). There has certainly been some fun along the way (all for Me!) (k, mostly for me). Look for Bongiorno, Avespa! part 2.
(the title is Italian for Good Morning, Wasp!, in case you didn't have that figured).

Twelfth Nighty...

2006-06-01T15:12:00.000-07:00

I don't know for sure. I haven't looked at the schedule. Stop asking for god's sake! I will post it all here.

Tonight, Thursday, the inimitable Srah (Not a typo) Gartshore will be directing. Satyrdae (Saturday), Ulrich will be directing. Wednesday, next week, Tova will return and we will all be off-book. That is what I know for sure right now. When do we present? See beginning of post for that answer.

Ulrich, I would also like to mention will be the third reference for trying to get into the MA program here. Keep yer fingies X'd 4 J. I am tired and just rambling about miscellaneous shit right now. Sorry. World Cup in slightly more than a week.

WORLD CUP!!!!! Catch the fever, oh you who pledge allegiance to the AJE! Feel the excitement O masters and mistresses of your own destiny! Pump up the jam, you super-freaks!

Moving...

2006-06-01T15:09:00.000-07:00

Just really quickly, here's a great idea: When moving, let Jason take charge of everything. You will have enough on your mind anyhow. IN fact, you will still be required to put some serious thought into things. Will this be thrown out? Why not? etc...

Yes, the Jay will streamline your operations and smooth over interpersonal infractions when it comes down to it. These things are beyond your control, so why not put them beyond your worry by appointing the caring Jay to adress the issues?
Don't forget to have a good supply of hot dogs and mustard, with a little pepsi or juice ready too!

Stolen from Ms. LeBlanc

2006-05-24T10:32:00.000-07:00

Face it, you all love a dash of plagiarism here and there. "Steal this hook," as it were, because "Oh look! He's using My work!" (^_^)

Autobiography in Five Short Chapters
by Portia Nelson
Heavily Modified by Jason Simac

I. I walk down the street.
There's a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I fall in.
I am lost.....I am helpless; it isn't my fault.
It would take forever to find a way out, I force the issue expensively.

II. I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I dodge it. They push me in and say "well that's life, son."
I can't believe I am in the same place;
but it isn't my fault.
I harness my sense of rage and frustration and find a Better way out, though it takes a while.

III. I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I see it is there. There is the slightest statistical chance I Let them push me in, but this time by God they are coming with me.
My eyes are open. They are trembling. Inside the deep hole where I know there are no witnesses, I see to it that they will never mess with deep holes or other people again.
I know where I am, and ironically people think I have no negative side, yet:
It is my fault.
I get out immediately, but wipe the blood from my lips first.

IV. I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
Some poor creature got shoved into it, I try to help them out, but often can't because they cannot see me.

V. I walk down a different street. I am very wary of new holes.

Next Week!

2006-05-24T09:41:00.000-07:00

My first post on Blogger was May 30, Last Year. Can you see where this is going? I am about to celebrate my first year of Blog!

Blooooooooooooog! BlahhhhhhhhhhG! blahg blahg blahg! Bliggity Blaggity BLOOOG! and some of you, I should point out, have been reading this crap for a year now! blawwwwwwww -gue!

S'right, you love it, don't ya? S'a right interactive blog digitally mediated form blog of communication, demo-blog-cratic in nature and open to blog anyone with a compy 286 blog at their disposal. S'gonna revolutionize the way we hear those four little letters: B-L-O-G! BlOg! makes it happen, Blog! writing together.

Try reading this blog aloud and you will find that if you say "Blog" quite enough it seems to sound strange, unnatural, alien in fact, and kinda rather somewhat meaningless. I experience the same phenomenon with other words sometimes. try saying "boing" all day long and see where it gets ya.

You may miss everything in between, but Tune In Next Week! for the very special first annual, perennial favourite; The Anniversarial Simacian Blog - Command Performance for her majesty Princess Steph. It's 48 hours of Blogging mayhem, Mayhem, MAYHEM!!! See the amazing car crushing, flame breathing entry Blogzilla as it chews its way through paragraph after paragraph, Stare in awe as Big Daddy Don Bodean's Monsterblog Blogula brilliantly blogulates the audience.

I reckon I'm getting a little too excited. Do not call me Big Daddy Don Bodean. Please. Well, I suppose Some of you can. (As well you know). The rest of you shouldn't.

See ya next week?

Minor disappointment

2006-05-24T09:31:00.000-07:00

Because every day should have one, here I go:

No email? None? Empty G-mail box. Empty Groupwise. Even the advertisers have failed to offer me something to make me more manly, more healthy, a better mortgage or what have you in my hotmail inbox.

*sigh* I feel so unloved.

A note of thanks

2006-05-24T08:42:00.000-07:00

It is a long held belief for me that my greater successes are never mine alone. The end of this degree is therefore a testament to not only my own perseverance, but the ongoing support of others. Let me acknowledge you all, without whom I could not have done this.

Obviously I am going to start with my parents, who were instrumental in my continuing education. Had they not been just as interested in me getting along in life (and perhaps More so) I would not be where I am today. In Sudbury. Wondering if a bus will come along... Hahhh, kidding!

Of course no man is an island and I would surely be locked away in Algoma at this very moment without the constant understanding and companionship of specific friends. Jenny Hazelton and Andrew Root, you are a big part of my success. Thank you.
Virginia MacFarland, Peter Hewitt and Sandra McMillan (the first friend I made in Sudbury); you have also been cornerstones in my empire and I thank you.

I would like to mention Ami Lowe, without whom I would never have even come to Sudbury. In all odds, I likely wouldn't have ventured onstage if it weren't for Ami either so Thank you, Ami.

Once in a while you meet a person that changes the way you look at the world, or is it that they change the world itself? The whole point of life is to seek these people out and honour their influence. Thank you, Louise Chauvin/Kowalski/Boyd/Currie! Should I get on that tramp-steamer headed for Jakarta, Madagascar, Malawi, the Tasmans, Ankara, Crimea, Kilimanjaro with stops in Ipanema, Tierra del Fuego, Cape Good Hope, Amundsen Station, Champs-elysees, okefinokee, Babylon! and connections to Oceania, Singapore, The Hague, Sugarloaf, Russia, Orange County(s), Azteca stadium, North Pole, St. Andrews, etc., etc... *Ed,: You will have some cool postcards*

There are more people to thank of course. It is early morning and I am not going to go on at length right now. It is a good day. Clear weather. I am going to try and be productive...

-right after this coffee...

I've been having trouble with snappy titles lately

2006-05-23T07:10:00.000-07:00

Back on track, gotta get back
Clickety Clack get back on track
Snikket Snak get back get back
Clickety get on clackity track
back- backity track get
Snik snak lack
ov track a-back on track (baktrak!)
tricky to get on clackity track
it's a trick to click
snip snap the trap to clack
no lack of track so snap get back
on the clickety clack, Jack!

...

2006-05-22T09:44:00.000-07:00

I think I am losing my mind...

at least partially.

I was going to leave it at that, but I will venture that many who read this can in some degree relate. That's Probably the reason why I bothered to make such a statement. It does seem easier when you Know that you are not alone. Share the hardship I suppose.

Winning really isn't everything...

2006-05-18T19:12:00.000-07:00

If you read the previous entry, you may be shocked to see that I am not touting my team, the winningest team in World Cup history, for the trophy this year. That's right, it would be nice, but a feeling in my bones says not this time. Besides, if they win too much it will just get boring, won't it?
There are other countries that I would have no problem taking the cup this year. This short piece is about them.
Spain is a team that has been quite strong for a long time now, and every cup I think they might pull it off.. maybe, maybe. Hasn't happened yet, but I like them and part of me wants to see it happen for them.
Portugal I feel the same as I do for Spain. They seem to be slightly less the team than Spain overall, but I like 'em!
Korea gets a good mention cuz they got heart (not 'have' heart), Not a Very well developed style, but they are fun to watch. Their essentially underdogginess in previous years garnered them much popular support.
Ukraine, I did mention, holds a particular emotional draw. Beyond that I'm sure my friend Tia would love to see them take the cup.
God this could take a while! I shall speed us along. The Czechs, Mexico, Côte d'Ivoire, Sweden, Paraguay, Ecuador and perhaps even Poland are all teams i am favourable to in varying degrees. I wouldn't mind seeing any of them stand supreme.
Clearly some of these are more likely than others. Korea, Ukraine (sorry Pip), Poland and likely Portugal are more remote chances for contention.
The Czechs, Mexico, Sweden and Spain seem much stronger to make it to the final duel. Some; Paraguay, Ecuador, Côte d'Ivoire I am not sure where to place them. They have potential, just as the Swiss, Netherlands and Croatians, - and Serbia Montenegro! Wow. These guys all have the potential...

How exciting!

The World Cup, or "C" = death!

2006-05-18T19:09:00.000-07:00

I wrote this for someone dear who wanted to watch the cup with me. Circumstance and distance intervenes on that front, but I can still talk Turkey! If not this cup, then the next one.

In a few short weeks this site will be overrun by footie. Anyone even vaguely close to me has heard it mentioned plenty now. The commercials are trickling through the television channels, but soon it will be a media flood. Why? Because simply put, the World Cup is the single largest international event. It is The tournament. It is The definitive competition of the World.
So here I am offering the reader my assessment of how the first round will go. For those who have no idea of the setup, there are eight groups of four teams, within the groups there are playdowns to see who will progress to the next round. Keep in mind this is informed guesswork. Some of it Should be wrong, if only for statistical purposes. Of course Vegas bookies and professional commentators screw up too, so no apologies. Here we go:

Group A: This consists of Germany, Costa Rica, Poland and Ecuador. I like this group and hesitate to call it quickly. Many will say that clearly Germany will go through. Well that wouldn't surprise anyone at all. I don't know about their keeper, Kahn. Apology to an anonymous friend who liked Kahn very much, but he's older now, I'd like to see new blood. It's not that I Dislike Kahn, he's a solid keeper, but frankly he wasn't Aaaaalllll that. Alright, I will concede Germany going through, but I am going to say they go with some losses. It's funny, some people call the German style boring. I suppose I can see why, but there is a mechanism to it, method. When the machine is tuned it can really shine, and I can appreciate that.
I honestly don't know who of the other three are going to progress because I didn't do my homework. I am thinking Ecuador, but have no basis. That makes things shorter eh? I was thinking that if I cannot be in Germany, then it would be good to be in Poland, where many of the world's most beautiful women will need some serious consoling in the event their team is out.
But! Poland may yet go through with Germany. I cannot speak for Costa Rica. It's Poland or Ecuador and I like them both. In fact if Germany were knocked out and Poland and Ecuador progressed that would be a thing!

Group B: This consists of England, Paraguay, Trinidad & Tobago and Sweden. Ah Hell, the hard stuff first! What I am thinking (and there is definite emotional bias here), is that Sweden will go through. I say this without knowing how they've been recently. The second position will be a struggle between England and Paraguay. Frankly I would like to see Paraguay go through, and god knows England has made some pre-emptive noise about players they cannot field. That is to say, their excuse for any losses is pre-established PR. That sounds vindictive, but I've met Real British soccer fans, crazed and kicked off the continent soccer fans. Of course South Korea is in this cup again and y'know what they say, Tommy, "it comes in threes..."
I think this will be a pretty close group, excepting Trinidad & Tobago. By all means if T&T can put the boots to any of these teams, kudos to them. I cannot think of any time I have seen that team play, so no idea what to expect.

Group C: I am thinking this is the Real group of Death. Argentina, Côte d'Ivoire, Serbia & Montenegro, Netherlands. History says that the first and last of these will make the next round. Of all the groups, it seems to me that there is more potential for upsets here than anywhere else. In the last decade I have developed a taste for African football. It isn't my favourite, but we all have to agree it is developing well, it is increasingly effective and it is fun to watch. I have no particular feelings about Argentina or Serbia & Montenegro either way. One is a giant, the other a potential giant slayer. All I ask is some interesting matches. I have a fondness for Netherlands and even more so for Côte d'Ivoire as they are new-ish and kind of underdog-ish. I am sure this group will provide some serious excitement and hopefully some interesting surprises.

Group D: Mexico, Iran, Angola, Portugal. Iran, eh? I am glad that the Yanks aren't in the same group. Sorry, Iran, you seem like the valiant effort, but ultimately feckless character. If I am wrong I will literally print this sentence and eat it. Further if I am wrong, then good on ya and congratulations. But it won't happen. Who shall take a commanding run through this group? mmmmmMexico! That's right. I like Mexico. I am pulling for them straight off, told you this was biased! They have some of the world's top footballers at the moment, they are in good form, they are plain cool.
Portugal I also like and I expect them to come through second. Now Angola may or may not be a contender and it's good either way. It sucks to watch no-challenge soccer. Every fan wants to think "their team" really earned their progression, so having stated I prefer Portugal and Mexico, good luck to you Angola, I am eager to see what you will make of yourselves.

Group E: Italy (Eeeeeeeeta-lee), Ghana, USA and Czech Republic. I had heard that Italy was actually crying that once again, they are caught in the group of death, though I haven't verified the report. Eh! Relaxxi! I foresee Italy going through, even if it isn't smooth as glass. A single loss in the opening round seems to shake each of my friends who are rooting for Italy. A thought on Italian style: Get out there, score, lock down the field with ironclad defense. Yes, it can be right fuckin' boring at times, watching the Azzuri. On the other hand, it is a thing to see when a team is under fire, to be able to defend wave after wave of furious onslaught. I am thinking of a specific game I watched with the Italians once, where they were getting from all sides and only let one goal in. Other teams would have been scored on four or five times. Impressive.
Ghana. Hi Ghana! How've you been? K, well there's refreshments here and dinner will be on shortly, go ahead and mingle.
I expect the Czech Republic to go through to the following round. In fact, I expect them to go through more definitively than Italy. Given their rank, their history, their secret weather control machine to be used for world domination... The Czechs are always fun to watch, and I like them. It's not Extra-special like or anything, but you have to appreciate high talent.
I am counting on America to introduce the element of surprise here. Didja get that America? I am counting on you for something. If you don't deliver that's fine, but if you do deliver please fail to think I owe you anything. I believe it's possible, it's certainly happened before and so a bit of mix up could certainly provide a modicum of thrill and pleasure from the Yanks.

Group F: "F" for "Favourite" ya think? Damn straight, because this group has the team I think of as "my team." Hey, mock me if you will, but remember that a lot of you are Toronto Maple Leafs fans... (buuurrrrrrrrn). Brazil. Croatia. Australia and Japan. I always acknowledge the chance of an upset, which is exactly what it will be called if Australia or Japan (or Both!) go to the second round. I like Japan, I have nothing at all against Aus, but we all know...
Brazil. This is my team. I would love to share them with you, by all means may Brazil be Your team. I have been a fan of Brazil for a long time. Longer than some of you have been alive in fact. For those of you who are familiar with the epithet of "The Beautiful Game" which is now applied to soccer in all it's glorious manifestations; it came from the development of a Brazilian style of play. Remember? I spoke about German and Italian styles? In the 70s a dutch guy created a style called "total footbal." The Brazilian style of "The Beautiful Game" emphasizes skill, flair and panache in play. It makes art of the game. When watching the Beautiful Game you see the Love of the Game more clearly than anywhere else. Brazil!
There is another side here. Yes, Brazil Should have had the cup in France, let's not raise the dead again. What I want to express is that the attitude and feeling behind this team is more important to me than being the best in the world. I would indeed be stunned and sad if they did not progress. That said, I expect them to, though I would bet they do Not win the cup. Perhaps I am not a good fan, but I am perfectly okay with a number of other teams taking the cup this year. (It would be nice if they had to fight Brazil for it).
Croatia is an unusual nation for this tournament. When they are "On" they are unstoppable and can go toe to toe with Anyone. Anyone, even with My team. The problem is the difficulty in determining when they will go Off. They can power along and very suddenly they will lose steam and that very fast. Nonetheless, when they are On they give some of the most watchable plays around. I like the team because of this. They have heart and I wish them well.

Group G: France, Switzerland, Korea Republic and Togo. Many of you will be pointing out that it should be South Korea... gotcha. Um, France is a threat that I don't care for. What can I tell you? I don't hate them, though Bartez certainly looks suspiciously like Moby, I just don't have anything For them. Nope, I like the Swiss and the Koreans. I would like to see those two go through. Togo, I know nothing of you. I am ignorant, but I do like surprises.

Group H: Spain, Ukraine, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia. I expect Spain to progress as they usually do. I like Spain a fair bit actually. Saudi is likely in my mind to get nowhere. Fast. Weren't they the ones that got hammered 10-0 in a recent cup? Not sure, Harsh. So Ukraine and Tunisia. Well I have already said that I like the African nations generally, but this time I have an emotional investment. Ukraine, according to my sources has performed admirably leading up to this competition. Spain, Ukraine - right Pip?

Antonio, not Inigo

2006-05-17T14:49:00.000-07:00

Well, I will be taking the role of Antonio NoLastName, in the play Twelfth Night as may have been mentioned. I keep wondering how to present this character, but no matter what I explore it always degrades to "is it... hot in here?.. perhaps I should take my shirt off..." and this never lasts too long because in no time I am standing with a sword drawn saying "My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die."

For those of you who were fooled alongside me, the subtitle of the play is Not "The Orgy."

Actually, I have to go run lines right now. Yes, immdediately. More on Antonio, my alter ego soonish.

I got a phone call today

2006-05-17T14:38:00.000-07:00

And it made me very happy.

Now I just need a call from work

and one from school...

Allllllll goooood karma sent my way will be returned tenfold. Or threefold. depends on your belief system. It must be the God of diminishing returns.

Dogs are Stupid

2006-05-17T14:26:00.000-07:00

I apologize to those of you who have dogs. I will readily admit that they consistently show signs of intelligent behaviour, except for those dogs that in fact, Don't.

The concern I am writing about today is automotive in nature, of course. It seems that when engines leak coolant dogs have a thought process which approximates (depending on the translator) the phrase "Mmmm! Candy! Lucky me!" Likka likka likka, Dead Dog.

I am told they think it's sweet. Now: for stupid reasons that require no explanation I Have tasted the stuff, and it's gross. There is an aspect of its taste that says "Not Naturally Occurring," and it is because of this that the title is dogs are stupid.

Now people it might not be Your dog, but the neighbour's dog or what have you. Simple additives on the ground like Cayenne pepper or salt would likely drive the dog away. So if you are aware of leaking fluids from the car please do something about it because in half an hour a dog can go from full throttle to dead.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This part has nothing to do with dogs. It is dedicated to the woman behind me who looks about 45 or so and apparently in this time has never learned to Stop Snorking and Blow Yer Damn Nose! It is more annoying than non-sequiturs.

Better. I feel better.

sigh

2006-05-04T15:24:00.000-07:00

it's just one thing after another, eh?

Vitriol and Stale.

2006-05-02T15:32:00.000-07:00

Yes. I wanted to start on a positive note like that; "yes." Why? because that last blog was soooo intensely caustic.

Now I make no apologies for being caustic. Those of you who really know me, know that I will occasionally be like that just to maintain balance. What I DO apologize for is giving no forewarning and sticking it unconnected in another blog.

Cheap Shot. Only Ayana needed to see that and instead you all receive a stream of invective flowing like the river Styx. Sorry. Sorry 'bout that.

That shit gets stale fast, but so does Overapology. Speaking of Stale! I sent mail to someone very important a few days ago, and got a message today saying the daemon couldn't deliver it!

I re-sent it inside another, longer mail. I hope this makes amends. I hope this keeps things even keel. What do you think? Would you be appeased? I hope the old note is not "stale" and unwanted at this point.

Other People's Blogs

2006-05-01T16:16:00.000-07:00

Right you crazy freaks, I am offering a word in explanation. Yes you are all dear to me and yes I read your blogs. Ironically, a whole Load of you are requesting this of me at a time when there are a few critical little things to take care of. I assure you, I am getting to your lovely words.

You will notice yet another link in my sidebar. As mentioned I have not had time to read it yet, but Ms. Leblanc was going to set fire to my house if I hadn't put it in. As usual, the opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the blah blah bl-you know this spiel...

For those of you who Did go to Mr. Tihor's site and found little there, go back again later I urge you. Then if there is still little there we can prod and taunt him until he writes for us. Honestly, I would not still think of this fellow as a brother if he didn't have Some entertainment value. ;) Hehehhh

Ohhhh! Gaaaawd! I accidentally deleted three legit comments from cool users, to remove one comment from AyanaDiana41 or somesuch.
Let Me Tell Ya 'Bout AyanaDiana, the fuckin' cunt... Who the HELL she thinks she is coming round to advertise here I have no concept of, But Ayana - you used up piece of fuckin' jet trash, you rash on my ass in the summer heat, Go Die. There was zero indication that we wanted your SPAM - YES it IS spam, too, regardless of what your Loser American Laws state.

SPAM! Your bullshit ads for bullshit consumerism can Kiss My Pearly Northern Ass, you sperm-burpin' gutter slut. Do Not come around here with your non-talkin' shadow of substance. I do not care if this is your job or what have you, you pigfucker. Stay away.

Needless to say that this goes for anyone attempting this shit.
That is it for now, but possibly more after a quick cuppa...

Five Years

2006-04-25T20:01:00.000-07:00

I said I would I would relent on the school stuff for a while, returning only to offer you up the news of my final marks. Well I lied. I lied right to you. This is about school.

I have done the math and it appears that I have now clinched the requisite 60% for Cost(Rlst)2246.
"Oh good for you Jay," you are saying, but you fail to realize the deeper implication.

This is the final credit of the final year of the total degree: which is to it is all I need to finalize getting my degree: which is to say (having the credit now) I Have My Degree!

Six years ago, Nobody would have guessed that this would happen. Four years ago, same deal. Now I am a graduate. I Have Graduated!!!!!!! Many people here don't seem too surprised and to those I say thanks. Thanks for the encouragement and believing in me. You would not have been so confident if you knew me back in the hammer

Sister city to Teh Sudbury and FlipperBabyOpolis

2006-04-23T14:53:00.000-07:00

For those of you who were around back in the times when I also ran a coloumn called "Verified" and another little circus known as "Pot o' Gold Theatre" you may well remember FlipperBabyOpolis. It is a semi-fictional place, much like Teh Sudburia.

I am happy to announce that the great di-tropolis-es, (DiTropoli?) have a New sister city out in British Columbia. It is ElastiZombieOpolis (capitals used for aid in pronunciation). The mayor of this town is none other than my long lost friend who tolerates me though I never get in touch with him. Chris Tihor, I apologize.

I urge the denizens of Simacia to take a short trip via the electrical umbilicus to British Columbia and check out My very longstanding and esteemed colleague's blog. It is listed in the side bar under "Chris Tihor." Go! Now!

The evolution of the J-net...

2006-04-23T12:39:00.000-07:00

At long last! After a couple Days of waiting, I have beta-privileges for Google's PageCreator endeavour. Very soon, o my loyal flock, you will be able to see all sorts of things at my new webpage: http://image723.googlepages.com

Yes, visitors will quickly and astutely surmise that it is in fact intended to display photo work that I have done. Inasfar as that I would like to remind Everybody that I run by a specific code when dealing with images of you. (Ones that I have taken at any rate).

I Will ask your permission to post any picture I have taken with you, if it was I that originally solicited the photo. If you came to me about it, Before this post, I will certainly return to you for permission again. If you come to me for pics Åfter this post, then this discussion will be part of the original agreement. I hate to sound businesslike, but there it is.

It's all in construction right now anyhow, but soon there should be some cool stuff to see...

Free yourself and your funk will follow

2006-04-23T12:29:00.000-07:00

Doing what comes naturally. Eliminate the noise and receive the message.
Inhale. Kill. Exhale.
Drink coffee until your fingers are so nervous and tip-tappety 'pon teh table top tat tey type two transcripts!
Talk on the phone while using MSN to send a friend some pics and consider the level boss in the video game in front of you.

Sometime in the next 24 hours there will be a magical transformation taking place. Like a butterfly, I will become something excellent to behold. I shall become Responsible.

For you, in your absence

2006-04-15T17:22:00.000-07:00

While you are far away, I am thinking of you in all I do. I hope your weekend is going great. I miss you so much...

Come back soon...

Remember Remember the 5th of November

2006-04-15T16:27:00.000-07:00

I want to make a quick note about Guy Fawkes, for he may be relevant to some of you. In Britain as in most modern countries, there is a fireworks day. The Brits don't call it fireworks day, Britain day, Independance day, or any of this, oh no!

You see, some time back a fellow named Guy Fawkes smuggled several (many) tons of explosives into the basement of the British Parliament and planned to blast 'em all to Kingdom Come. He was discovered the day before he carried out this act.

Now when the brits do pyrotechnics it is on Guy Fawkes Day. Kudos to you Britain. And as for the spin and shit that American interests are going to look to put on a story like this: Shame, shame on you, you vicious twerps.

Now. I am told that the film "V for Vendetta" was banned in the United States! I cannot confirm this. I wouldn't be surprised. I have read a number of right wing rants about the film: "oh leftist claptrap, blah blah blah." To those I say this - you fascist idiots! You sooooo missed the point and there is just no fucking helping you. Fascists. Wake up and smell the coffee, the writing is on the wall, you're blind and ignorant. ahhh t'hell with ya, You deserve what you get.

Now go see the film V for Vendetta and remember, remeber the fifth of November!