What's the proper response?

Backstory

I posted an add on Craigslist for a pair of concert tickets.

Ryan Adams 2 tickets for Thursday, 1/31

2 Tickets for Thursday's show (1/31) at Royce Hall

Row J, seats 39 & 41 (they are together)

Royce Hall Seating Chart:

http://www.ticketmaster.com/seatingchart/90201/13448

Asking $107, which is face value plus all the bogus ticketmaster fees.

Email if you are interested. I am going to sell the tickets to the first person that can come pick the tickets up.

This is one of the responses I received:

Hi there,

I'll buy them both for $50 cash. I do not intend to be insulting.
Really, I have been in your shoes. But there are countless other
offers for discounted tickets. And it is better to get something for
them than nothing at all. Yes? You will be lucky to get half the
value. I have tried.

I am a single working mom and would be the most appreciative
recipient. Really.

I live in Culver city and can pick them up in the morning if you have
not recieved better offers.

Thanks.

(Name withheld out of a reasonable expectation of privacy.)

So basically you wanted to say, "You're not gonna do any better and I'm a single parent."

FTR - For The Record

There were 14 posts on Craig's List regarding tickets to tonight's show including four ticket requests, seven ticket offers and two offers to swap tickets.

I received 13 inquires about the tickets. Two were offers below $107.00

Here is the other low ball offer:

Hello,

If you still have these at some point today I can pay $40.00 for both. There are a lot of tix out here and I just want to get inside but am kinda broke. Best of luck either way!

(Again, name withheld out of a reasonable expectation of privacy.)

Well, that wouldn't be fair to the working mother. If it looked like I was going to take that kind of a loss on the tickets I think I'd repost them for free as part of an essay contest.

Conclusion

I received $110 for the tickets from a South Bay resident who had been to last night's show and enjoyed it so much that he had to go back. He was appreciative.

"Who Will Stop the Rain?"

-Creedence Clearwater Revival

China plans to halt rain for Olympics
'Weather modification' team will manipulate the clouds in summer to try to keep the open-air stadium dry.
Barbara Demick, Los Angeles Times, 1/31/08

Summer is the rainy season in Northeast Asia. Originally, the Beijing Olympics were to open July 25, but meteorologists urged that the date be pushed back as late as possible. Still, the chances of rain in Beijing on Aug. 8 are close to 50%.

The bureau of weather modification was established in the 1980s and is now believed to be the largest in the world. It has a reserve army of 37,000 people -- most of them sort of weekend warriors who are called to duty during unusual droughts. The bureau has 30 aircraft, 4,000 rocket launchers and 7,000 antiaircraft guns, said Wang Guohe, director of weather modification for the Chinese Academy of Meteorology.

I wouldn't presume to tell the Chinese how to run their Olympics and it's a too late in the game now, but wouldn't a roof (at least a partial one) have been a more practical solution?

Groups wishing to use the opening ceremonies as an opportunity to call attention to China's human rights violations are rumored to have been in contact with Burt Lancaster's estate.



Noah Curry: We don't believe in rainmakers.
Bill Starbuck (Burt Lancaster): What DO you believe in mistah? Dyin' cattle?

Bill Starbuck: "Rain is rain, brother. It comes from the sky. It's a wetness known as water - 'aqua pura.' Mammals drink it. Fish swim in it. Little boys wade in it. And the birds flap their wings and sing like sunrise. Water! I recommend it."

An Affirmation

Medicine Available 24/7

PVM's - Prescription Vending Machines

The DEA is gonna love this.




A, Horn & Hardart’s Automat

good lord

It appears the fall of humans is closer than anyone imagined.



Hillary Nutcracker

the retort

I'm not sure why the other party feels the need to formally respond.

It seems odd that a party responds to the President and not the body (of congress) as a whole.

The original plan was three separate branches of government right, not two parties.

Wait, this just in, Governor Kathleen Sebelius (KA) said that her Democratic Response would be an American Response. Well, that's a start I suppose.

Odd though, the ABC News graphic said Democratic Response throughout the speech.

Why am I hearing about Governor Sebelius's political ancestors? Is she planning a move to DC?

"Uncertainty throughout our land . . ."

I preface the following with the fact that I know next to nothing about Gov. Sebelius, but I love it when established politicians speak of change. Governor Sebelius has been in office since 2003.

quotables

Don't quote me on the quotes. I was typing while listening. I should have paid better attention in 10th grade typing.

"Make the tax relief permanent."

"If any bill raising taxes reaches my desk. I will veto it."

GW's budget will eliminate 18 Billion in wasteful spending -

Gonna be some unhappy congressmen.

"American families have to balance their budgets and so should their government" - rawkus applause -

Agreed but you've had seven years to balance the budget

Framed congress as the only obstacle to his er sorry the nation's progress - kept referencing, our shared responsibility, he & congress

Barak, your fingers must have been holding back a smirk or outright laughter.

"Jump medical lawsuits" ??

Did he say, "Throughout the nation there are boys and girls with drinks"?

No child left behind is working? Does anyone believe that?

"Embolden the purveyors of false populism in the region"

aka Chavez and his dream of a Pan Latin Empire

Wow!? Sally Sells Sea Shells By the Seashore - the speech writers must have been holding their breath on that one.

" . . . America to continue to lead the way towards cleaner technology."

Really, we're on the cutting edge of green technology?

"Outlaw the buying of human life . . ."

Um, isn't that already illegal

Charitable Choice? I am ignorant on the subject

New Orleans to host the North American summit

Entitlement Spending - SS, Medicaid

A call for a bi-partisan solution to save these programs for our children and grandchildren

Immigration - "We have effectively ended catch and release at the border."

Um, prior to your speech, ABC ran a segment on the Nogales, AZ border, where 300 people a day are "caught & released"

"On a clear September day we saw thousands of our fellow ?? taken from us."

Really, a 911 reference. Have you not perverted the memory of and exploited the grief of that day enough.

3200 Marines to Afghanistan - Where they will fight the terrorists and train the Afghan army

" . . . sustain and build while transitioning . . . . " - Plans for the upcoming year in Iraq

20k troops are coming home

". . . having come so far and achieved so much . . . " - Can't allow Iraq to descend into turmoil

" . . . a failed Iraq would embolden extremists, strengthen Iran . . . "

"We will not rest until this enemy is defeated."

"A more hopeful region and a safer America."

Condi was concentrating so hard during the Palestine section I thought something was going to burst or a ray was going to shoot out of her head and vaporize the podium or some unsuspecting clerk.

How does Michael Chertoff have a job after his handling of hurricane Katrina?

"Our message to Iran . . ."

"Defend our interests in the Persian Gulf . . ." Unpack that for me, what does that mean

"Good people toil day and night to stop the terrorists." - Yeah, Jack Bauer and CTU, right?

"America opposes genocide in Sudan"

OK, now that we agree on that, can we do something about it and maybe while we're at it, how about some action on Kenya before it reaches a full boil

"America is a force for hope . . . "

"Increased funding for veterans by over 95%"

Really, great if so. I'd like more details. I think they might have juked the stats. Would you trade Bob Dole for GW? I know it, you know it and the American people know it.

"God bless America."

Barak & Teddy sat next to each other.

And now for the professional analysis - bring on the journalists.

I think it's a bit weird that the Supreme Court justices wear their robes to the speech. Like the high priests in a sci-fi novel. Do they have to wear them wherever they go?

The prez signs autographs as he's leaving? Weird, really weird verging on tacky

thank heavens

~"He said he was getting used to doing things for the last time."

-ABC News anchor Charlie Wilson on President Bush's reaction to giving his last state of the union address.

Stay tuned, I'm sure to be irritated.

I can't believe the media has a copy of the speech before it is given.

I can't wait for his annual closing reference to god.

The folksy routine is so tired, "The American people expect us to get it done."

Evil Dick is lurking over the left shoulder. Pelosi looks in need of a defibrillator.

Rebulican - Jesus it's your own party you mumbler, republican

Go Do Something (LA)

Posters of the WPA (Works Progress Administration)

(1/25/2008 - 4/13/2008)
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM - 1/25/2008
Forest Lawn Glendale - Museum
Free Admission & Parking

One of the most fascinating and vital developments of American graphic design took place between 1935 and 1943, years darkened by the Great Depression and World War II. In this remarkable eight-year period, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) printed two million posters from thirty-five thousand designs. It was an innovative time, characterized by experimentation, fresh ideas, and avant-garde thinking; the result was, as noted at the time by P.M. Weekly, “poster art more vital than any this country has ever known.” And yet in the years that followed, little attention was given to this extraordinary design activity. The story of the WPA posters and the artists who designed them is one of the most interesting and unjustly overlooked chapters in the history of American art.

Go Do Something (LA)

Natural History Museum First Fridays

Once a month the Museum stays open late. Stop by for dinner, discussion, music and more...

Should you wish to befriend them.

February 1st

6:30pm, DISCUSSION:
“The Elephant’s Secret Sense”

Join us and take a look at aspects of elephant society that contribute to survival, including new findings on that society's multi-modal communication, dominance, relatedness and hormone expression. New discoveries about elephant bull society will be reviewed, emphasizing the importance of bonding and mentoring. Caitlin O'Connell-Rodwell has been studying the underground communication system of wild elephant herds for 14 years – she's convinced it's a much richer one than previously thought. This discussion will highlight her work with elephants and the discoveries about their capacity to communicate seismic activity in a multimedia presentation and discussion.

Any Chance to learn more about Pachyderms.

7:00pm-10:00pm, MUSIC: A-TRAK & Kid Sister

DJ sets in the African Mammal Hall by frosty and Take

DJ sets in the Mammal Hall sound sweet!!

# Museum admission: Adult $9, students (w. ID) $6.50, Members FREE.
# Capacity of discussion, music, and tour is limited and awarded on a first come, first served basis. Please arrive early to ensure participation.
# Dinner and drinks for sale starting at 5:00pm.

Recommended Viewing

Life After People

Tipper Gore wouldn't like it

How did I miss this?

Playstation 2 Resident Evil 4 Chainsaw Controller

Product Description

The Limited Edition Resident Evil Chainsaw Controller for use with the Sony Playstation 2 is a one of a kind masterpiece. Complete with a unique blood splattered design exclusive to each chainsaw made, this controller was designed to improve game play in tight situations, as well as enhance on the overall maneuverability that can sometimes be hindered when you are bombarded by endless slews of monsters.

Product Features

* Pull cord unleashes blood curdling chain saw roar
* Rumble feature for realistic chainsaw feel
* Completely redesigned with blood splattered artwork that is unique to each chainsaw
* Detachable cable that can be stored in the stand

Release Date: September 25, 2006

Increase the Peace

The New Yorker, of all entities tipped me off to Master P's "Gutta Time" video.

Buyer beware

Today, I wanted to finally realize the dream of wireless printing.

Reading through the setup guide for my printer I discovered that I needed a USB A B cable, to go from my printer to my AirPort Express.


USB A/B Cable

I priced the cables online before I set out for the local Best Buy. The prices on Amazon ranged from a penny to $7.61 plus shipping. I was willing to pay a convenience/immediate gratification tax to have the cable today. Ten dollars was my limit. Silly me, I should have known better.

BB had two options a Dynex cable for $33 and $40 Geek Squad model.


I walked home. Brick & mortar stores are for suckers.

booo

Boston Red Sox to wear uniform ads in Japan
January 23, 2008

TOKYO (AP) -- The Boston Red Sox are putting advertisements on their uniforms for the first time.

The World Series champions said Wednesday they will wear sleeve patches with the logo "EMC" when they open the season with a two-game series against the Oakland Athletics at the Tokyo Dome on March 22 and 23.

Beyond lame. Doesn't MLB have enough money?

sit tight

From: smart USA Customer Service
Date: 1/18/07
Subject: An update for reservation holders from smart USA

Dear Reservation Holder,

This has been a remarkable week for smart USA! On Wednesday we delivered the first smart fortwo in the United States and, as of today, deliveries to Reservation Holders are taking place at smart centers nationwide.

We appreciate how anxious all of our Reservation Holders are to take delivery of their very own smart fortwo. We also apologize for not being able to communicate more specific information regarding the status of your individual order.

Reservation Holders whose vehicles are in route from Germany have been notified by smart USA and their dealer. Within the next 30 days any Reservation Holder who has a confirmed order in production will also be notified by smart USA and their dealer.

For all other Reservation Holders, we are working diligently to provide you with a 90 day window for your anticipated delivery, based on assumptions available at that time. This information should be available by the end of March.

Again, we appreciate your continued patience and enthusiasm!

Sincerely,

The smart USA Team

The subject should have been, Be patient it might take a while.

By my math, unless I hear from smart in the next month it could be up to two months (March 2008) to get my 90 day window, which would mean up to five months before I take delivery. So the Camry may ride again. As much as I like the LA Metro the idea of five months on the bus doesn't appeal to me.

For now I'll have to be content with the toy that smart gave me.


*note I am getting the Passion Coupe not the Cabrio

60 minutes to go

Madison Avenue picked the finalists weeks ago.

The December 10th issue of Sports Illustrated featured competing watch, sorry chronograph ads (I wonder at what price your timepiece goes from watch to chronograph) from spokesmen Tom Brady & Eli Manning. The two will face each other in Super Bowl XLII, in Arizona on February 2nd.


The Citizen Eco-Drive Skyhawk A-T Flight Chronograph & Eli Manning, professional quarterback. UNSTOPPABLE.


The limited edition Tom Brady Movado 800 & Tom Brady, strategist, athlete, mvp.

I'll take the strategist.

Doppleganger

NBA Point Guard Steve Nash


Aladdin Sane

migraine inducing

Costa Mesa man, 24, among victims of Corona crash
AP, 1/21/2008

Authorities were trying this afternoon to learn why two small planes collided over a row of businesses, dropping a macabre shower of debris and body parts and killing someone inside an auto dealership when one of the aircraft punctured the roof.

Last night Fox 11 News, had a reporter camped outside one of the victim's (who lived alone) house. They interviewed his neighbors who commented on their concern for his cats.

As the reporter concluded her update while listening to the man's cats she said, "We can hear them meewing. Someone should call animal control."

"You know I read it in a magazine"

-Bennie And The Jets, Music by Elton John & Lyrics by Bernie Taupin

Men's Journal, 2/08

Raid on the Killing Cove by Peter Heller
Every year in a hidden lagoon in Japan, some 2000 dolphins are slaughtered in brutal fashion.

"Behind the museum is a marine park, where dolphins perform choreographed shows. The Japanese tourists laugh and clap and eat dolphin sandwiches."

Ah yes, I always like to celebrate the Kentucky Derby with an equine steak. To the tourists: seriously, don't you get it!?

A.W.O.L by Ivan Solotaroff
James Circello enlisted in the army a week after 9/11 to defend his country. Two years later he was a decorated paratrooper in Iraq. Four years after that, he deserted in disgust.

"Ten thousand AWOL soldiers, and no one wants to acknowledge it - not Bush, not the press, not even the army itself. Someone's gotta wake the sheep up." - James Circello

Consider me awake. I had no idea that between 2003 and 2006, there had been 10,000 AWOLs. I would like to see how many of those AWOL's developed into DFRs (dropped from the rolls), which occurs on he 31st day of being AWOL.

It's odd to me that there are so many AWOLs in an all volunteer army.

According to the article in 2007, 4,698 or 3 percent of the army soldiers in Iraq deserted.

In 1971 (six years into the Vietnam War, for which there was a draft), 33,094 army soldiers or 3.4 percent of the army deserted.

The Trouble with Keith by Paul Tullis
Keith Olberman has never been afraid of trashing people publicly, even his employers.

"But I've ripped the Democrats for holding back on ending the Iraq war in hopes of maintaining it as a campaign issue for 2008; they know that the most effective use, politically, of what they're facing is to throw it all back to the Republicans in the next 12 months. Which is great except how many kids are going to be killed in Iraq in that time?"

Reagan and Carter monkeying around during the Iran hostage crisis is one thing continuing a war because of an upcoming election, the thought of it makes me ill.

netflix unlimited

Netflix expands Internet viewing option
Michael Liedtke, AP, 1/13/08

With Monday's change, virtually all Netflix subscribers will be able to stream as many movies and TV shows as they want from a library containing more than 6,000 titles. There will be no additional charge for the unlimited access.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Date: Tue, 15 Jan 2008
From: "Netflix"
To: Lego
Subject: New! Watch instantly on your PC as often as you want

Dear Lego,

Now you get even more

As part of your current Netflix subscription, you have the option to watch some movies and TV episodes from the Netflix library instantly on your PC at no additional charge. Now, we've made it unlimited!

So watch instantly on your PC when you want, and as often as you want. Select from our separate, smaller library of over 6,000 familiar movies and TV episodes available to watch instantly.

- Your friends at Netflix
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~



Dear Netflix,

Thank you for bringing the world unlimited streaming. If only I had Windows, to take advantage of your generous offer. When I click the play button, I get the following message: Our apologies — instant watching is currently not supported for Macintosh.

I feel I am entitled to some sort of discount on my monthly rate or increase in the number of at home movies since I do not have Windows and cannot take advantage of the unlimited viewing.

- Your friend Lego

Flesh Eating MRSA

MRSA is in the news again.

New Bacteria Strain Is Striking Gay Men
NY Times, 1/15/08, Lawrence K. Altman

A new, highly drug-resistant strain of the “flesh-eating” MRSA bacteria is being spread among gay men in San Francisco and Boston, researchers reported on Monday.

In a study published online by the journal Annals of Internal Medicine, the bacteria seemed to be spread most easily through anal intercourse but also through casual skin-to-skin contact and touching contaminated surfaces.

The San Francisco researchers suggested that scrubbing with soap and water might be the most effective way to stop skin-to-skin transmission, particularly after sexual activities.

“This particular clone is resistant to at least three other drugs, clindamycin, tetracycline and mupirocin,” Dr. Chambers said in a telephone interview.

Of the alternatives recommended by the C.D.C. and the Infectious Diseases Society of America, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim), clindamycin and a tetracycline, “this strain is resistant to two of those three,” he added. “In addition, the new strain is resistant to mupirocin, which has been advocated for eradicating the strain from carriers.”

A cocktail of antibiotics including Bactrim knocked MRSA out of the leg.

If you're prescribed an antibiotic take the full dose.

Wash frequently with soap and water and let's hope someone with an NIH grant or big pharma is working on new antibiotics.

"It's my teammate . . ."

While the City of Brotherly Love, undoubtedly hates Terrell Owens, I love him.

What I don't love are the parodies of videos like TO's being slapped up on the internet. When I search for a video of Terrell Owens welling up or of Britney Spears performing at the VMA's, that's what I'm looking for, the original not someones lame attempt at comedy.