Heated White House exchange

White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs got into a heated discussion with April Ryan, of American Urban Radio yesterday. Ryan was questioning Gibbs about those stupid annoying party crashers and the role that the White House social secretary played at the party. He got annoyed and belittled her. She shot back.

He made a good point at the end, stating that they should get back to more important things, "like 98,000 men and women in Afghanistan" True, but I think they use the war as an excuse when they don't want to talk about a subject.

"How did those party crashers get into the White House?!"
"Why are we talking about this, there's a war going on!"

"Why is the President keeping Bernanke on?"
"Why are we talking about this, there's a war going on!"

"Will sending 30,000 more troops to Afghanistan speed up the completion of our mission there?"
"Why are we talking about this, ther.....oh..."

Surprise Kitty!

This kitten is too adorable. You can't help but smile when you watch this. Happy Friday :)

Campbell elects first gay, Asian-American mayor!

Yes, my sleepy little hometown, Campbell, California has elected a new mayor. The Campbell City Council elected Evan Low to be Campbell's newest mayor in a Tuesday night vote. He is 26, Asian-American, and gay.

Low grew up in San Jose, but moved to Campbell eight years ago. He ran for city council unsuccessfuly in 2004, but won a seat in 2006. He says he never considered moving to a larger, more gay friendly city such as San Francisco. "For me, it's about making a difference in the community I live in." he said in an interview "Campbell is my home".

He's taking a grass roots approach to increasing the tolerance level in this country. Don't get me wrong, it's great that we have Gavin "It's gonna happen, like it or not" Newsom in San Francisco, but IT'S SAN FRANCISCO. Although I appreciate his preaching to the choir, it's time to raise the awareness level in smaller towns such as Campbell. This is a small, quiet step in the right direction.

Congratulations Mr. Mayor!

I'm baaaaaaaaack!!!

Well, I've been away from blogging for too long. The last 90 days or so have been quite hectic with work, vacation, holidays, etc. Life is good, no complaints but I've held back my opinions for far too long. It's time to come back and give all of you (and by all of you, I mean my mom and the 4 other people who occasionally read this) my long overdue opinion. I feel like I've missed out on so much. So many things to discuss...

- Sarah Palin's new book (which I'm currently reading, review to follow)
- The Fort Hood tragedy
- The White House party crashers (someone put them and the Gosselin's on an island with no TV cameras PLEASE)
- Joy Behar's new show on HLN
- Holloween
- ....and the best show on TV, Modern Family

I won't try and catch up on all these topics, just move ahead as there are bound to be plenty more topics and train wrecks to discuss as we close out 2009.

I also changed the blog header pic. Used to be a black-and-white I took of the Golden Gate Bridge. I took this new one of our beautiful city skyline from Dolores Park at dusk. Please visit soon for more updates. In the meantime, here's one thing I've been up to:

Went to see the Christmas Tree lighting in Union Square on Friday. Mayor Newsom did the countdown. They have a lot in common, him and the tree. Both tall and majestic. Fortunately, I think this time only the tree was lit.

This is why I don't ride MUNI...

I have seen too many accidents, rude drivers, and now fights to use MUNI as my preferred form of transportation. I will take it on occasion, but only when absolutely necessary. Otherwise I will drive, cab it, or most preferably, scoot. Just my luck one of these crazy women will cut me off as I scoot down Market. Here's hoping they are permanent MUNI riders and not drivers!

Not gonna lie, quite entertaining to watch:

Joy Behar, Ann Coulter debate Sarah Palin

I know the title sounds like you are at the Cougar exhibit at the zoo but was actually a segment on Joy Behar's new show on HLN (check it out).

I love Joy Behar, and I love to hate Sarah Palin and Ann Coulter so this made for a very interesting segment for me. Enjoy:

President Clinton changes his view on gay marriage...for the better!

I have been a huge fan of President Clinton for many years. I had the privilege of meeting him once in 1997. (Have I mentioned that before? Probably. And I probably will again. It was a thrilling night!) I have a new reason to admire this great man and brilliant politician. He has changed his view and is "now personally" for same-sex marriage!

This is much different from his public stance on it when he was President. I also give him so much credit for admitting that he has changed his mind. So many politicians stick to outdated concepts because they don't want to seem like they are "flip-flopping" (thanks Karl Rove for that term) but President Clinton is a not afraid to say he has changed his mind.

I wish I could be alive 100 years from now to see how his legacy compares to that of his predecessor...what was his name again? Ahh, the memory (nightmare) is fading.

Thank you President Clinton. You continue to be an advocate for progress.

Boycott Manchester Hotels!

Doug Manchester, the owner of The Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel and The Grand del Mar Resort in San Diego donated $125,000 to anti-gay campaigners to help get Prop 8 on the ballot.(No, I did not add links to the hotels because A)We shouldn't be helping their website get hits and B) I don't want to tempt you...the hotels are actually quite beautiful)

Now, "Papa Doug" as he is known has reached out to some groups, offering to donate $125,000 to civil union groups. But, he is non-wavering in his opposition to same-sex marriage. Anti prop 8 groups are no less wavering as they have vowed a second year of boycotts and campaigns to increase boycotts on the Manchester hotels.

The boycott has so far cost Doug Manchester over $7 million dollars, and that's just for the Hyatt property! He has yet to apologize and refuses to meet with boycott leaders.

So, go ahead Mr. Manchester, donate another $125,000 when it comes up on the ballot again in 2010. $125K initial buy-in with a negative $7 million return? What a savvy investment.

Here is a link that I will give you: http://www.saynotomanchester.org/

Protect the insurance companies! ;)

Check out this funny "PSA" done by some celebs including Will Farrell, Jon Hamm, and others. A sarcastic, but poignant commentary on the current healthcare debate and the "neverending suffering" of the insurance companies and their executives.

Protect Insurance Companies PSA from Will Ferrell

Gavin Newsom welcomes baby daughter!!

Congratulations to Mayor (soon-to-be Governor) Gavin Newsom and his wife Jennifer Siebel-Newsom! They welcomed their first child, daughter Montana Tessa Newsom (we'll talk about the name later) to the world today, September 18, 2009 at 12:39pm.

Mayor Newsom tweeted about his exciting day to keep us all updated:

Arrived at hospital

Ok... I'm nervous--

Baby girl.. :)

Jen doing great.. Not sure she is happy I am on twitter

The newest Democrat in the Newsom household weighed in at 7lbs 12oz and 20.5" long.

Now, the name. Montana? I don't know what to say about this. She is no doubt going to be beautiful with those two parents. Not to mention smart and driven. The only thing not in her favor is that name. I love Gavin Newsom, like super love Gavin Newsom but Mr. Mayor, you didn't just adopt an Alaskan Husky, this is YOUR DAUGHTER!! Tessa Montana maybe? Even that is better. Oh well. I'll shut up about the name. Congrats Newsoms! A very happy day :)

PARK(ing) Day - Cute, but annoying

Living in San Francisco, I have learned to appreciate the precious 5'X15' real estate known as a parking space. I usually do not have too much trouble finding parking when I get home from work but should I come home a little early, or a little too late, I could drive around for a half hour trying to find a spot.

The group Rebar, a San Francisco art collective has started a program called PARK(ing) Day where these precious parking spaces are "leased" (about $300 in quarters dumped in over the course of the day) and used as small parks. This started in 2005 when it was discovered that 70% of downtown outdoor space is dedicated to vehicles and only a fraction of that to the public in the forms of such things as parks and open space.

So, tomorrow, Friday September 18th, you will have an even more difficult time parking in SF as these park people start rolling out sod on your much needed parking space. Don't get me wrong, I think it's noble to try and turn our downtown concrete jungle into a green eutopia but after circling the Moscone Center for an hour, my car just might end up as part of the 5'X15' art display.

President Obama calls Kanye a jackass *audio*

Here is the audio of President Obama speaking "off the record" with some reporters before his appearance on CNBC yesterday.

Listen to in HERE

Nite-nite: Patrick Swayze 1952-2009

Patrick Swayze lost his battle with cancer today. He was 57. I was going to write a whole bio about his life, but, who doesn't know all about Patrick Swayze? He was an awesome dancer, fantastic actor, and not a bad singer, either.

He was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer in 2008. What an awful way to go. Wasting away. Cancer sucks.

Rest in Peace Patrick. No more pain.

Kelly Clarkson calls out Kanye better than anybody

I love Kelly Clarkson. Always have. Ever since her first audition on American Idol in Season One I wanted her to win. I followed her through the season, calling every week to vote for her. (I know, get a life) Then, when she went on to release albums, I was right there on opening day to get them...and they were awesome. Every one. I've seen her in concert a few times. Once, with Reba which obviously sealed the deal for me as a die-hard Kelly fan. Reba's husband, Narvel actually now manages Kelly.

Anyway, I have a new reason to love her. This nice, innocent girl from Texas called out Kanye on his dick-move last night better than anyone. Here is her blog entry from her website:

Monday, September 14, 2009

Kanye West

Dear Kanye, What happened to you as a child?? Did you not get hugged enough?? Something must have happened to make you this way and I think we're all just curious as to what would make a grown man go on national television and make a talented artist, let alone teenager, feel like shit. I mean, I've seen you do some pretty shitty things, but you just keep amazing me with your tactless, asshole ways. It's absolutely fascinating how much I don't like you. I like everyone. I even like my asshole ex that cheated on me over you...which is pretty odd since I don't even personally know you. The best part of this evening is that you weren't even up for THIS award and yet you still have a problem with the outcome. Is winning a moon man that much of a life goal?? You can have mine if it will shut you up. Is it that important, really??

I was actually nominated in the same category that Taylor won and I was excited for her...so why can't you be?? I'm not even mad at you for being an asshole...I just pity you because you're a sad human being.

On a side note, Beyonce has always been a class act and proved again tonight that she still is. Go TEXAS!!

Taylor Swift, you outsell him ....that's why he's bitter. You know I love your work! Keep it up girl!KC :)

Kelly Clarkson is awesome, for yet one more reason. Cool beans.

Review: Little Ark Grooming Shop SF

My initial reaction was to give this place one Reba. The second Reba is what I call the "benefit of the doubt" Reba. The Little Ark Grooming Shop looks like it could be a nice place to take your pet but my experience was very much one star. I called Little Ark on a Sunday morning to see if I could get my dog, Jarvis' nails trimmed. He's 10 and does NOT like this process so I have to sit with him through it. I used to take him to the Petsmart in Daly City as I lived closer at the time. But since I now live in Hayes Valley, this is way more convenient.

So, I showed up at Little Ark at about 11am on Sunday. There was nobody in the lobby but there was a female employee in the back with all the dogs, she was trying to get to one of the kennels and yelled "move!" to a dog in her way. Now, I say that to Jarvis all the time when he's under my feet. But, he's MY DOG. I don't expect him to be yelled at like that at a groomery. Is that hypocritical? Oh well. Anyway, that was strike one.

So, she came to the front and said "can I help you?" I said "Yes, I'd like to get his nails trimmed" to which she quickly replied "Is he good through it?" I said "No" and before I even got to explain, she ROLLED HER EYES. Really? Strike two. Anyway, I finished my sentence after her dramatic eye roll "No, he doesn't like it and needs me to sit with him" She said "Ok, we'll do it right here then" She quickly pulled out the cutters, I got my dog comfortable on the floor with me and she went to work. She didn't say a word, just trimmed his nails. I guess I'm used to the girls at Petsmart who would reassure him while they cut his nails. That's fine though, I reassured him. No filing, no frills. Just cut and "That's it. Done" I said "Good boy! All done" to which he gleefully jumped up. This was apparently a bit much for her as he's tall and she turned her face away dramatically and said "Ok! Ok!" as in "get your big dog out of my face" Oh, I'm sorry. I thought this was a grooming shop. It's like hiring a nanny that holds your baby at arms length. You signed up for this, don't act you are sitting on my couch as a guest and my dog jumped in your lap. Strike three.

Bottom line, she is the reason for the low rating. I have a feeling this place probably has some very animal friendly staff. I mean, it's in the Duboce Triangle, right outside the Castro. Probably the most animal friendly neighborhood in SF. But, this girl? Uh-uh. Not animal friendly. I guess I'll continue to make the drive out to Daly City. Jarvis is 10 and deserves five star treatment. He doesn't deserve to be treated like a burden from someone in the wrong job with a one star personality.

Two very generous Reba's:

Nite-nite: Gertrude Baines 1894-2009

Gertrude Baines, the oldest living person on the planet, died today at 115. She was born on April 6, 1894. Imagine living in the age we do now, with the internet, satellite, television, iphones, etc. and coming from an era where radio was still being introduced to the world. Where horsepower came from horses. What an amazing life.

This is the part that gets me: Her doctor does not know the exact cause of death but an autopsy is scheduled to be performed. Are you kidding me?!?! Umm, Dr. Witt (her physician), save your time and money. I'm going to announce the cause of death right here, right now...ready? SHE WAS ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTEEN YEARS OLD. There. Please add to the death certificate.

By the way, according to the late Gerty Baines (I just gave her that nickname): "I never drank, never smoked, and never fooled around." Good for you Gerty. As for me, looks like I won't be making it to 115. Cheers!

"Get it in the can" - new commercial

This is funny...all I have to say.

Facebook - Relax people, it's just a website HILARIOUS VIDEO!

I don't know if you've ever been in a relationship where Facebook or Myspace has been used as a tool to make you jealous, piss you off, passive agressively get your intention, or just plain irritate you, but if you have...check this out. You will find it quite amusing.

Ben and Jerry's renames famous flavor in support of gay marriage

When you read the names Ben and Jerry, you are probably reading the packaging of ice cream. Unless, you live in the state of Vermont, where, as of today, you could be reading a same sex wedding invitation. Yes, effective September 1, 2009, gay marriage is officially legal in the state of Vermont and, to celebrate, Ben and Jerry's is changing the name of it's famous "Chubby Hubby" ice cream to "Hubby Hubby"! The newly (and temporarily) re-branded packaging will be available across the state of Vermont and will feature two grooms.

In a statement, a Ben and Jerry's rep said "In partnership with Freedom to Marry we are gathered here to celebrate Vermont and all the other great states where loving couples of all kinds are free to marry legally. We have ceremoniously dubbed our iconic flavor, Chubby Hubby to Hubby Hubby in support, and to raise awareness of the importance of marriage equality."

Way to go Ben and Jerry's! I just wish they offered the packaging here in California. Now there are two things that I can get in Vermont that I can't get here. Way cool gay friendly ice cream and treated equally. Some day.

Death calculator predicts when you might die

I know, not exactly a happy topic but pretty interesting. Researchers and students at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a calculator that can predict when you might receive your very own nite-nite.

The website, Deathriskratings.com will give you answers based on several questions. It compares mortality risks age, gender, and geographic region. For instance, the increased or decreased chance of death from cancer based on your location.

Check it out....IF YOU DARE MUAAHAHAHAHAHAHA.

www.deathriskratings.com

Nite-nite: Ted Kennedy 1932-2009

Not that this is news to anybody, but Senator Ted Kennedy passed away on Tuesday after a 15 month battle with a cancerous brain tumor. He was 77.

There is so much to say about this man, and so much has been already said. I had a conversation with a good friend last night who said "There are so few people in this world whose compassion and relentless strive for the betterment of the world was felt as keenly as him[Kennedy]" - so true. As we all do, he had his ups and downs through the years. The Chappaquiddick incident, the murder of his two brothers, his success in the Senate, illness...through it all, he never stopped pushing for progress and change and awareness and tolerance in America. It's what he felt was right.

The progressive movement has lost its greatest advocate. Who will now be the powerful voice of change? It's all on you, President Obama. Learn from the man whose backing of your candidacy helped put you in that Oval Office.

Rest in peace Senator Kennedy. Enjoy the time with your brothers that was cut so short.

Review: La Fayette Hotel - San Diego

We weren't sure what to expect when we booked our reservations online for the La Fayette Hotel. We didn't receive any recommendations for it. We didn't even research it on Yelp (which is odd now that I think about it) but we just went for it. Our requirements were inexpensive, and not a dump. After our night at the Alta Cienega Motel in West Hollywood, we decided it would be nice to stay somewhere that you didn't feel the need to wear thongs in the shower.

So, we were cautiously optimistic about the La Fayette. The pictures looked nice, but how could it be so cheap? A standard room was $69/night. What's the catch? We arrived late Monday night and discovered...there was no catch! It's just a nice hotel at a very reasonable price. Now, it's not some lavish five star resort. But, it's clean, the staff is friendly, it has a nice pool and nice rooms. When do you get all of those things for $69 a night?!

If you plan to visit San Diego and don't feel like shelling out $400 a night to stay at the Del but want a nice, safe place to rest your head. Check out the La Fayette.

The La Fayette Hotel in San Diego gets 4 Rebas

Day One in Los Angeles - TMZ!

If you haven't been to LA lately, this is what you are missing. Caught a pic of this former Mrs. Hollywood and Vine 1971. Ok, I know my mom is going to get mad at me for posting that. Sorry Ma. Well, I’ve been in LA for about 24 hours. We got in last night and checked in to our hotel and went out for a bit. Fun night. Our friend Matt came out with us. Then, this morning my friend Antonio picked me up and took me to TMZ, where he used to work. It was awesome, I got to meet all the people I watch on TV and check out how the operation works. Totally fascinating. Thank you again, Antonio. Love ya Lots.

Meghan McCain, E.D. Hill to guest co-host The View

Meghan McCain, the outspoken daughter of not-President John McCain, will join the panel of ladies on the View in September. She will be filling in for Elisabeth Hasselbeck, who is home with her latest conservative creation.

McCain was a supporter of her father but is also an outspoken supporter of the NOH8 Campaign and has spoken in favor of gay marriage. "I was so honored to be asked to pose for the NOH8 campaign. I am a proud member of the Republican Party and a proud supporter of marriage equality" Meghan said in an interview; "Marriage equality is not just a Democrat or Republican issue, it is a human one"

E.D. Hill is another story. This Ann Coulter wannabe used to spout her conservative vitriol on Fox News, but her Coulter-esque comments were even too much for Fox. She lost her show and left the network after commenting that President and Mrs. Obama's fist bump was a "terrorist fist jab". Yeah, she should be fun to watch with Joy.

Both women have been guest co-hosts in the past. I like Meghan McCain, I don't like E.D. Hill; but I'll watch both. The fireworks from these women make for good TV. I'm not as big a fan of the "kindler, gentler View". I miss the shouting matches between Hasselbeck and Rosie. Hey, maybe put Rosie on with E.D. Hill. We'll see how long it takes Rosie to climb over that oak table and strangle her.

Cher and Chaz! - Coming this fall

Roseanne Barr, or Roseanne Arnold, or just Roseanne, whatever her name is, is now producing an internet TV show called "Cher and Chaz" a docu-mockery about the life of Cher and her daugh...er...son(?) Chaz Bono. This is a 3 minute intro clip. I have two warnings. One, if you are at work, you might want to keep the volume down, the language is...well...is what you would expect in a Cher/Chaz Bono conversation. The second warning, it's not really funny. The theme song is the best part of it.

I'll put it to you, is it funny? Is it over the top? Is it crossing the line? Remember, Roseanne put this out. She crossed the line 25 years ago and hasn't stepped back behind it since. Which is why I like her.

Lombard Street turns into Candyland for sick kids

No, that's not a photoshopped picture to the left, that is an actual arial shot of the crookedest stre...er...game in the world.

Hasbro, Inc. turned the famous crooked street, Lombard into a larger-than-life candyland board today to celebrate the board game's 60th anniversary.

Patients from UCSF's Children's Hospital dressed up as colored game pieces and played on the "board game" which was roughly 30,000 times the size of the regular game.

Lombard was closed for the day today, but the residence didn't seem to mind as they watched on from their front porches. One of those random, fun, only-in-San-Francisco events.

Baby Stewie OUTED!

Seth MacFarlane, the creater of Family Guy has officially announced that Stewie Griffin is gay! "We had an episode that went all the way to the script phase in which Stewie does come out," MacFarlane said in the September issue of Playboy. "It had to do with the harassment he took from other kids at school. He ends up going back in time to prevent a passage in Leviticus from being written: 'Thou shalt not lie with mankind as with womankind. It is an abomination.' "

It will be interesting to see how they handle this subject in the coming season; if they do at all. Perhaps they can broach the subject with Karl Rove or Rush Limbaugh, both of which are scheduled to appear in the '09/'10 season.

Family Guy is the first animated show in history to be nominated for a "Best Comedy" Emmy.

Kathy Griffin does NOH8 video

Kathy Griffin not only posed with her team and mother for NOH8 portraits but also did a PSA for them! Check it out below. (If you're at work, turn down your sound a bit...she uses words I'm not allowed to say around my mom)

Enjoy :)

Funny Presidential Town Hall protester signs

We've all seen some of these crazed protesters, like the one I blogged about last week. He's the extreme. Some are silly, some are funny, and some are just plain dumb. Here are a few of the signs from recent weeks.

At least the guy in the back left is honest. "Angry Mob" haha.

The one sign in the middle pretty much sums up the rest of them. I mean, look at the guy with the confederate flag tshirt and the "Abolish Federal Government" sign.

This might be my favorite sign, definitely an issue I'd like to see go before the Supreme Court. I hope Sotomayor has a dry sense of humor.

I don't know what I like more about this guy, the fact that he came out to poke fun at the protesters, or that he's just strolling through the angry crowd on his cell phone.

Ahh, our well informed youth. These girls are trying to keep young Chinese people from killing your Grandma. It's an epidemic.

Probably the best pic of them all. Ummm, you might want to get spell check lady. Otherwise, your issue seems a bit personal.

Thanks to the Huffington Post for a lot of these signs

New Reba CD released today!

I know most of you could care less about this, but as a lot of you know I've been a crazy Reba FANatic for about 20 years. Geez, I'm getting old. It all started when I used to go to Los Banos to spend the weekend with my friend Jason when we were in the 8th grade and his mom, Michele would play Reba the whole way.

20 years, about 16 concerts, and one very exciting meet-and-greet later, I'm as big a fan as ever. She still sounds and looks amazing. I can't wait to pick up the new CD. (Headed to Target after my 10am meeting). I'll let y'all (ha) know how it is! Should I rate it? Do I use Rebas to rate Reba? That seems inappropriate. You know I'd just give it 5 anyway. :)

You can watch a video interview with Reba about the new album here

Brad Pitt has the right idea

Brad Pitt joined Bill Maher recently. The two discussed acting, Hollywood, politics, and their mutual hobby...rolling joints. Well, Brad stopped once he had kids but Bill's still an herbal fan.

Here's a clip from their conversation where Brad discusses religion, politics, and gay marriage. There was talk about him running for mayor of New Orleans. He's done more for NOLA than anybody. He should def run for office. He has such a logical approach to issues. He just needs to shave that goatee. Thanks for the clip, Antonio

Dancing with the Stars cast announced

Kelly Osbourne and Melissa Joan Hart will join 14 other competitors on this season's DWTS. I used to hate this show and somehow now I'm sucked in. It must be the witty banter and sexual tension between Tom Bergeron and Bruno Tonioli. The show used to be somewhat of a joke because of their consistent D-list cast; but in recent seasons they have stepped up the calibur of contestents. They threw in a few B and C listers, which they have done again this year. Still, a healthy amount of D listers. My fave contestent this year is Tom DeLay. The ultra-conservative Repub from Congress who resigned after getting indicted for campaign finance issues.

Other contestents include Debi Mazar, Entourage actress and friend of Madonna who posed for NoH8. Macy Gray, Kathy Ireland, Mya, and some sports people. Oh, and the son of George Hamilton and Alana Stewart. Yeah, like I said, healthy dose of D's this year. It will be fun to watch Kelly Osbourne and Debi Mazar though, love them.

Tom DeLay will be entertaining too. Oh, I almost forgot Donny Osmond. I'm sure Marie will be right there in the audience every week. Maybe he'll faint too. Did wonders for their ratings and got her the Jenny Craig gig.

Plane/Helicopter crash in NY caught on tape!

An Italian tourist, who was still learning to work his new video camera, caught on tape the helicopter/plane collision over the Hudson River earlier this week. Nine people were killed in the crash. Supposedly, the air traffic controller was on a personal phone call during the crash and the tower supervisor who was supposed to be in the tower, wasn't. They are not charged with anything at the moment and there is no evidence that this lead to the crash but both were suspended without pay.

The video, though choppy footage, is still tough to watch.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Hey, crazy. Stay away from my President please

So this Lee-Harvey-esque nutjob shows up at a Presidential event carrying a sign that says "The tree of liberty must be watered with the blood of tyrants". Fine, protesters are allowed to march and say their peace. One of the greatest Constitutional rights in this country is the freedom of speech. No argument there. The problem is, he showed up with a gun strapped to his leg. Ummm, anyone else see a problem with this?

I'm not only a first amendment proponent, I'm very much a fan of the second amendment. I enjoy shooting guns, have no problem with them, and value the right that I have to walk into a store and purchase one. Having said that, there is a time and a place and a PRESIDENTIAL EVENT IS NOT ONE OF THEM!!!

This crazy was on Hardball with Chris Matthews yesterday. (Whom I'm a huge fan of. He's by far my favorite journalist on television). Nutty's argument is that he was trying to make a statement about the many rights in this country that he feels are being stripped away.

Check out the video of wacky's (ok, guess I'll give his name, William Kostric) exchange with Matthews on Hardball. Chris really hits him about the stupidity of his move at 2:45.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

World's Biggest Waterslide

Check out the video below, pretty amazing huh?



Wasn't that awesome? FAKE! It's a new ad for Microsoft Germany. The guy who goes down the slide is tethered and never leaves the ground. The guy flying through the air is computer generated. Piece that together with a splash and a wet guy that emerges from the tiny pool, and you have the greatest waterslide..er..internet hoax ever!

Will someone please shut off the internet service to Wasilla?

The former governor of Alaska, Mayor Mooseburger as I so lovingly call her, is spouting off yet again about health care and how under President Obama's plan, advisors will walk into nursing homes and put down any old person who's medicine costs more than $4.75 a day. Ok, so that's not exactly what she's saying but it's close. The "death panels" she refers to are supposed groups who will decide who gets and who is denied health care. Please, do people really believe this?

My favorite part of this whole thing is that now that Mayor M doesn't have the gubernetorial podium to stand on (which I believe consists of two salmon crates tied together with twine), she must now give her two cents through a slightly less grandiose platform...Facebook status updates. She went from having a press secretary issuing press releases, to broadcasting her views from her sectional sofa and iBook through status updates and Tweets. (Which, incidentally, I asked her if she would no longer be using the Twitter handle AKGovSarahPalin...she has yet to respond to me).

Who thinks they can influence people through silly social media sites like Facebook or Twitter?! Oh...wait...oops. Hey, if you are reading this you fell for it! :)

Farmer's Market Cocktail night!

Join some of the city's most talented bartenders and mixologists tonight at the Summer Farmer's Market Cocktail night. The Center for Urban Education and Sustainable Agriculture will host the event which will feature hand crafted botanical inspired cocktails. For $30, you will receive two full sized cocktails made with Square One Botanical.

Your drinks will be made by some of the best in SF, including my good friend Alicia Walton from Elixir! So, come down to the Dacor Kitchen in the North Arcade, in front of the Ferry Building tonight at 5:30!

(I say come down, like I'll be there. I have spin class but will be there in "spirit"...get it?)

You can purchase tickets here

No surfing at Stinson...unless you want to be lunch

Two separate people have sited sharks circling in the waters at Stinson Beach. The water has been closed until at least Friday. So, if you want tan arms and legs, you can still lie out on the beach. If you want to keep them, stay out of the water.

Nite-nite: Eunice Kennedy Shriver 1921-2009

Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the sister of JFK who helped found the Special Olympics, died today at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston at 88. Shriver is the mother of five children, most notable first lady of California, Maria Shriver. Her husband, Sargent Shriver is 93 and was the Democratic nominee for Vice-President in 1972.

Shriver spent several decades as an advocate for children with mental disabilities. Her work creating the Special Olympics among other projects, led to her receiving the highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Reagan in 1984.

Her husband, five children, and nineteen grandchildren were at her side. A true advocate for children and acceptance. Rest in Peace.

Kathy Griffin and Sarah Palin at Thanksgiving?!?

Sounds crazy, right? Well, since Kathy Griffin showed up at the Teen Choice Awards with Sarah Palin's grandbaby's daddy, Levi Johnston, anything is possible. Now, it's obviously a publicity stunt, and a damn good one, but I'm sure it has Sarah and Bristol P seeing red. I could make a joke here about "...and I don't mean the fake crimson that they pump into Kathy's hair" but I like her too much :)

Now, look at this poor kid. He looks scared to death. Does he have any other look? He had that same moose-in-the-headlights look standing on stage at the Repub Convention with his pregnant Palin. It's that "oh sh&t, what did I get myself into?!" look. Here's a suggestion Levi, STOP GETTING YOURSELF INTO SH&T! You think this is going to make it easier for you to spend time with that baby? I mean, come on. Michael Jackson's pharmacist makes better judgement calls (sorry, still in "Roast" mode).

Anyway, this had to piss off the Palin's and that's good enough for me :) Love Kathy Griffin. If the rumor's about the Palin marriage are true, Kathy just might show up at the Emmy's with Todd!

"Can you call it a roast when you're that old? More like a cremation"

That was my own joke to roast Joan Rivers. Not bad, huh? What do you want from me, I'm not a comedian. Neither were half of the roasters! Bah-dum-bum.

Kathy Griffin hosted the Roast of Joan Rivers on Comedy Central. It was hilarious. A lot of jokes about old people, plastic surgery, and ....well, that's pretty much what every joke was about, told in many funny ways by many funny people. Here's a small sampling from Jeff Ross. If you want to watch it in its entirety, you ca probably catch it about 50 more times this week.

Roast of Joan Rivers	Sun, Aug 9 10pm / 9c
Jeffrey Ross - On Joan Rivers
http://www.comedycentral.com/
Live Twitter Roast Roast Master Kathy Griffin Zombie Paparazzi Game

I think I'll take a boat to Brooklyn

Check out this amazing video of the Manhattan Bridge and how it moves, and practically bounces when the subway crosses. A little disturbing, but obviously the architects who built it knew what they were doing. On New Years Eve of this year, the Manhattan Bridge will be open for exactly 100 years! Ok, I guess I can take the Subway to Flatbush.

...and the winner is.....

Ferris Bueller's Day Off!! You voted (well, 9 of you did...not exactly a sampling of the masses) and picked FBDO as your fave John Hughes movie. Although, there was a bit of an uproar that I didn't include 16 Candles or Planes, Trains, and Automobiles so perhaps I should have a runoff vote.
Hmmm, nah. Mr. Jessica-Parker won fair and square.

Debi Mazar poses for NOH8 campaign

Debi Mazar joined the growing number of celebrities joining the NOH8 Campaign.

Some other celebs donating their mugs to the campaign are:

Leslie Jordan
Trenyce
Claudia Jordan
Ross Mathews
Steve-O
Kathy Griffin and Team Griffin
Shanna Moakler
Gloria Allred
Hal Sparks
Rachel Zoe
Lisa Ling
Ted Stryker
...and the list is growing!

PS - The guy applying her decal is the same that applied mine!

Madame Justice

The Senate has just confirmed Sonia Sotomayor as the first hispanic Supreme Court Justice in a 68-31 vote. This is President Obama's first Supreme Court appointment and is seen as a win for progressives and hispanics alike.

Democrats praised her saying she brings a moderate voice to the bench while the Repubs say she will come to the court with a liberal agenda. She replaces David Souter, a liberal who was appointed by George H.W. Bush, ironically enough.

Sonia Sotomayor was confirmed as the 111th Supreme Court Justice, the first hispanic, and only the third female. (Sandra Day O'Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg are the other two). She is of Puerto Rican decent and was born in the Bronx. She graduated from Princenton University Summa Cum Laude in 1976 and went on to gradulate Yale Law School in 1979. Wow, quite a ways from 180th street and the D train.

She worked in private practice and was an assistant disctrict attorney until George H.W. Bush nominated her to the U.S. Court for the Southern District of New York in 1991. President Clinton nominated her to the U.S. Court of Appeals in 1997 and she was eventually confirmed in 1998 (Confirmation slowed due to the Repub majority in the senate)

Congratulations Justice Sotomayor!

Twitter hackers!

Apparently, Twitter has been down for most of the morning due to a hacker attack. Twitter was "defending against a denial-of-service attack" and the site is still not fully up and functional. The outage also affected Facebook which was experiencing problems today too.

One woman in Manhattan was interviewed and said she felt "completely lost" without her Twitter today. Really? Relax lady. I'm curious to know how Perez Hilton's trip to Tokyo is and what Ashton Kutcher's bitching about today too but I'll survive.

I just tried to log in again and it took about three minutes but finally came up. I'm in! Oh, and Khloe Kardashian is at Starbucks. Thank God it's back. What would I have done without that information.

Restaurant review: SPQR

Tommy and I had dinner at the small Italian restaurant SPQR. This Roman inspired osteria in the Fillmore district was recommended by friends. We arrived at about 8pm and the place was bustling. There are maybe 20 tables with just enough room to squeeze by in between to make your way to one of the two counters. One counter overlooks the kitchen, which is the more desirable and busier counter. The other overlooks the wine cabinets, which is where we sat. (It looked like a 20 minute wait or so had we wanted a table) Our waitress Emily greeted us within two minutes and asked about our beverage selection. Tommy ordered wine, I ordered diet soda. Emily brought me a "Cricket Cola", which is a green tea natural cola. It was quite tasty but I would have liked to have been warned that I wasn't getting a Coke or Pepsi. Anyway, it worked out. I'm now a fan of Cricket Cola.

We ended up ordering their three antipasti deal and splitting one entree. We ordered fresh ricotta, summer squash, toasted pinenuts, and crostini bread. Followed by pork sausage, then corn fritters with pancetta. All delicious. Each were small portions but they were so rich they were just enough. This was followed by our main course, Rigatoni Carbonara with pork and pecorino. Delicious! A rather small portion to split, but again so rich that we couldn't eat another bite.

Emily was awesome, she knew everything there was to know about Tommy's wine selection. Even the details of the winery and the region in Italy where it comes from! Great service, a busy, but comfortable atmosphere, and rich flavorful food.

I've decided to come up with a rating system for movies, restaurants, etc. Since I am a HUGE Reba fan, I'm going to make my rating Rebas. So, here goes my first rating. I give SPQR.....
3 1/2 Rebas (out of 5)

ROCK STAR

What else can you say about President Clinton? The man is still the most powerful man in the world in my opinion. You all know I'm a huge fan of President Obama, but Bill Clinton is a force. You think George W. Bush could have flown to North Korea and recued those journlaists? No way. I don't even know that President Obama has that kind of influence (yet). President Bill Clinton is probably the most respected man in the world. He deserves to be.

The video below is really touching. They had no idea where they were going, they were prisoners. Then, they walk into a room and see President Bill Clinton. What an awesome feeling and tremendous relief. Talk about a sight for sore eyes!

My only question is, I wonder how Secretary of State Hillary Clinton felt about that? Isn't that her territory? Well, to her credit, she stepped aside and let him take the lead...again.

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