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Category Archives: Current Events

Oh, Those Dollar Tuesdays

“Is it always this crowded?,” I asked the hostess.  “Usually not,” she replied, “but it’s Tuesday.”

It didn’t take long for me to agree with this collection of hungry patrons that an excellent deal was at hand.  At the same time, I asked myself how I could have walked past this spot so many times and not stopped in before now.  Better late than never though, as I’m now fully acquainted with the tasty treasure trove on the southwest corner of 14th and Market, otherwise known as Woodhouse Fish Company.

Fresh, flaky and substantial are my words for the fish n’ chips, a selection that immediately proves itself not only far superior to the equivalent in any nearby pub, but also more reasonably priced.  The salmon filet special in pesto with Brussels sprouts stands as nothing less than delicious, generous and satisfying.  Generally speaking, we’re talking pleasing portions for attractive prices, a conclusion backed up by my cross-table spotting of the crabcakes, the calamari and the shrimp pasta.  My yet-to-be-experienced ahi tuna burger is driving my hasty return, a meal for which I already have hopefully not-too-high expectations of true lusciousness.

Small tables are intimately positioned into a limited and somewhat awkward space.  The wine glasses seem far too small, quickly elevating beer as the better deal.  Still, as wiggle room and libation are secondary to the terrific food, these elements actually seem forgivable.

Even with a full house, service remains prompt, friendly and mostly attentive, despite a couple minor forgotten requests such as water and an extra plate.  Again, in this case a few details might just as well be overlooked, especially considering the speedy arrival of a third plate of the “Tuesday special.”

Oh yes, it’s Tuesday, dollar Tuesday to be exact.  One dozen large oysters on an ice-packed plate for $12 is a fabulous deal I have yet to see matched, at least in this neighborhood.

One-dollar oysters!  I’ll be back, as obviously will many others.

 

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The Headlands Revisited

The pavement is smooth and the climbing unobstructed.  With significant and impressive completions to the Marin Headlands road construction project, cycling through this beautiful area is now all the more satisfying.

As I wrote here almost a year ago, cyclists like myself often choose the Marin Headlands for a decent workout close to the city.  And for all the “freshly paved roads” I then mentioned, now there are so many more.  Most notably comes the immediate climb from the north end of the Golden Gate Bridge, which we see in the above artist’s illustration.  With the new bicycle lane clearly marked and not a flaw in all that fresh asphalt, you’ll be at the top in no time!  From there just keep going, even onto some of the further-inland pavement yet to be redone.

If it’s been a while since you’ve visited the Headlands by bicycle, it’s certainly time for a “revisit,” even while dodging a few camera-snapping tourists here and there.

 
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Posted by on December 20, 2011 in Cycling, Daily Activities, San Francisco

 

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Television Turbulence

“With ratings not taking off, the show’s future is hitting some turbulence.”

The clever line quickly captured my attention during a news broadcast this morning.  Suffice to say, I’m not all that surprised to now be hearing the current buzz surrounding the possible cancellation of ABC’s first-season prime-time show “Pan Am.”

Many of us appreciate historical period pieces, for the nostalgia factor certainly if anything else.  In this case, an over-glamorized portrayal of air travel its 1960s heyday often captures the fascination of viewers born after, while likely churning a multitude of memories for those who lived through it.  However, the initial question I had at the show’s premiere remains:  Can this catchy program really build and sustain season-long story arcs, or will the show’s structure quickly reach its limits?

In any event, “Pan Am” is not cancelled, yet.  Meanwhile, the power of social media could yet determine its fate, while I know fans who would be sorry to see it go.  If the show does “crash” however, I’m sure the network has a few other threads of nostalgia it could pull to gain our viewership.  Television is nothing if not turbulent!

 
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Posted by on December 16, 2011 in Media, News, Television

 

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Is There No End?

Excessive and unenforceable were a couple of words I immediately used to describe it.  Upon further reading, as expected I found my assessment anything but unique.  Thankfully enough, a ban on all cell phone use in cars, even hands-free, seems unlikely ever to happen, leading me to wonder why the NTSB this week would issue the outlandish and overreaching recommendation it did.

Texting is one thing, talking another.  How a fatal accident caused by texting immediately prompts a call for no talking, leaves me shaking my head and rolling my eyes.  As for the idea of hands-free talking too being outlawed, a CNN article today stresses this unlikelihood while noting:  “There’s conflicting evidence on whether hands-free cell phone conversations would be as unsafe as those by hand-helds… that more “definitive research” is needed.”  I say to the NTSB:  Fine, go ahead and pursue that “definitive research,” but in the meantime don’t be prematurely taking further swipes at the personal behavior and decisions that I along with many others deem appropriate and safe.

All the renewed chatter this week regarding cell phone use in cars simply underscores the larger issue for debate, this being government control vs. personal responsibility.  In many cases the former becomes too much while the latter proves not enough, which of course will continue to fuel such a debate.  Still, I tend to remain the defender of thoughtful and informed personal decision-making, while opposing blanket laws that lengthen the list of things we can no longer legally do.

Is there no end to such new and arguably unnecessary restrictions placed upon us?  There certainly needs to be, for the sake of our supposedly free society and the future thereof.

 

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If Only…

A 138-story skyscraper in San Francisco:  The work of ficticious filmography.

It’s almost the view from my home, with one not-so-slight addition.  (Scroll down a bit to “View of The Year” for comparison.)  Unthinkable as such a skyline happens to be for this city in real life, this somewhat-famous image of San Francisco stands as one of my favorite!  If only it were more than imaginary.

The film of course remains a classic in itself, one I happily watched again this past weekend.  For an interesting and scenic dose of recent San Francisco history, both real and imagined, I do indeed recommend it!

 
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Posted by on December 12, 2011 in History, Media, San Francisco

 

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Unlike My First…

They’re called “wing bombs.”  I call them odd and complicated, despite a strong and tasty bolt of horseradish.  The “corn fritters” deserve marks for creative preparation, while their relatively bland taste falls flat.  Then come two entrees, New York steak “cubes” and sea bass edamame, both of which immediately cry out in embarrassment of their paltry quantity.  While the flavor stood its ground, to my dismay my stomach did not reach its necessary capacity.  Add to this one overworked waitress who clearly needed additional assistance, leading to overall service that was hurried and inattentive.  Thankfully the wine, a Lodi Zinfandel, was delicious!

My second dining experience at Tangerine painfully paled in comparison to my delightful first, I’m sorry to say.  Plus it’s not the place to go if you, like my dinner companion, are in search of a real steak.  Still, for the numerous appealing menu selections yet to be conquered, plus a more hearty dish I eyeballed at an adjacent table, maybe– just maybe– a third trip is in order.

 
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Posted by on December 9, 2011 in Restaurants, Reviews, San Francisco

 

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…Of The Presidential Ages

“More recently the trend has been greater longevity. From Herbert Hoover through Reagan, excluding John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated, seven of the eight presidents lived longer than expected, including Franklin D. Roosevelt, who died at 63 but served for 12 years. Their average age at inauguration was 58.9 years and average expected age of death, assuming presidents aged twice as fast while in office, was 68.9 years. The average actual age at death was 81.6 years. The exception was Lyndon B. Johnson who died of heart disease at 64.” (NYT, 12/6/11)

‘Tis indeed a remarkable truth, with thanks to The New York Times today for speaking the numerical language with which many of us presidential historians are quite familiar.  After all, with Presidents Jimmy Carter and George H.W. Bush both currently living at age 87, after seeing Presidents Ford and Reagan survive to 93– with the presidential longevity record going to Ford– it’s definitely safe to say the job itself does not kill the occupant, at least not by natural causes.  LBJ remains the closest exception, expiring a health-plagued four years after leaving office, almost to the day.  Nixon, for the additional unmatched stress he endured, lived on almost 20 years past his presidency and at least made it past age 80.  Bill Clinton and George W. Bush of course define the “younger generation” of former presidents, while both now 65 have a while to catch up to their predecessors.

This phenomenon of recent presidential longevity clearly extends to spouses.  After all, with the exception of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis who died at 64, first ladies of the past half-century have lived into their 80s if not 90s– save that “younger generation” of Hillary Clinton and Laura Bush who have yet to get there of course.

Suffice to say, this sort of numerology always makes for interesting conversation, especially going back more than 50 years.  Historical trivia it is after all, of the presidential ages.

 
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Posted by on December 7, 2011 in Famous People, History, Presidential

 

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View of the Year

On this day one year ago, December 4, 2010, this wonderful view of which I can never get enough became a daily part of my life.  Exactly one year ago today, I moved into my current San Francisco home, from which this fortunate vantage point has been enjoyed by both myself and several guests on numerous memorable occasions at all hours of the day.  What a unique and unmatched year this has been, to say the least.  While there will continue to be change, at least one of my home’s most inviting elements will no doubt remain the same.  Here’s to the start of the newest chapter, my year two!

 
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Posted by on December 4, 2011 in Current Events, San Francisco

 

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Unlike Most…

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The rather low-key event once again came and went during Thanksgiving week, as it annually does.  Among them all, six distinctive automobiles most impressed me at this year’s San Francisco Auto Show.  Worry not if you missed your trip to the Moscone Center, as you didn’t miss all that much relatively speaking– that is, as far as major auto shows throughout the country are concerned.

San Francisco’s collective display of automotive marvel remains small, quiet and surprisingly absent of many popular models.  Nonetheless, a stroll around the convention hall floor does quickly prove educational.  Among the random tidbits I learned last week, the Acura RL’s console layout is shockingly microscopic, Volvo needs to put some flair into its sterile dashboard panels, the four-door Mini is anything but, and there is absolutely no way I could possibly fathom myself or anyone else ever shelling out $58K for anything called a Hyundai.

Not to sound excessively critical, plenty of “auto good” wove its way through the show, which brings me to the above six photos.  The following models have earned my own unspoken awards:

1.  Fiat 500:  Most in need of a spin.

2.  Range Rover Evoque:  Most worthy of a second glance.

3.  Lexus LS460:  Most comfortable seating.

4.  Audi A8L:  Most handsome body overall.

5 & 6.  1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL & 1965 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham:  Most to be admired.

The last two tie for what I consider to be the most stunning pieces on display throughout the entire convention hall.  Leave it to me, of course, to pledge my allegiance first and foremost to the classics!

As I mentioned last year, present-day Mercedes-Benz was once again missing from the floor, while the always-beckoning Porsche Panamera this time around remained locked.  Regardless, the show’s extensive historical section was alone well worth the $9 entrance fee.  After all, while everything new blends into sameness after a short while, automotive legends naturally stand proudly on their own four unmatched wheels.

Altogether, from BMWs that clearly build upon their longstanding stature, to Volkswagens with styling that prompts me to take a nap, the San Francisco Auto Show came through again in its own understated way.  Multiple absences notwithstanding, it’s an easily navigable and surprisingly uncrowded venue from which to gain some insight into a somewhat wide array of both fine and not-so-fine machines.  Just like my select handful of “winners,” the show altogether– either way you look at it– remains unlike most.

And that’s, yet again, my automotive opinion.

 

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We’ll Never Know…

Certain questions will forever remain unanswered.  No time-leaping cinematic journey through the complex life of one of America’s most powerful yet complicated figures of history will ever put all the pieces together.  We’re left to wonder, as perhaps well we should for the sake of ongoing argument and analysis.  While this latest depiction surely rests incomplete in its overall life coverage– most do after all– the retelling of such infamous though calculatedly unproven historical details has made its way onto the big screen in a film very well worth your time and consideration.  Simply put, go see J. Edgar.

Some unrealistic makeup notwithstanding, Leonardo DiCaprio pulls off a solidly believable portrayal of the enigmatic bulldog who for almost a half-century ran the department that grew to become during his reign the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  While Director Clint Eastwood necessarily ignores many significant years and events, the history he does choose to cover maintains focus on the man of mystery who shaped and influenced– by means both good and not so good– federal law enforcement in this country.

Reality and Portrayal

There is no other J. Edgar Hoover.  We already knew this.  Still, as with so many high-ranking government officials, the daily struggle ensues between the personal and the public man.  In Hoover’s case this may very well have been more than the average struggle, as Eastwood’s film steadily examines, and which no doubt draws us to the ticket window.  Perhaps even more than his personal files for blackmail comes the unresolved fascination with Hoover’s sexuality.  While the film unambiguously delves into this subject, it does so with a surprising amount of respect and restraint.  In other words, the recipe is light on sexual behavior, heavy on conflicted emotional intimacy, all intertwined with another day on the job.  His relationships are strong yet difficult, with his mother, with his colleagues, and certainly with the man he “needed.”  This we see and see well.

Critics will call J. Edgar a disappointment– and they have— but as usual I believe in coming to my own conclusion.  So should you.  From unconvincing cameo portrayals of RFK and Nixon, to poignant moments with Clyde Tolson, to telling scenes with Hoover’s mother and the loyal presence of “Miss Gandy” throughout, all peppered with historical tragedy and even some splashes of Hoover-style wit and humor, this film demands our attention from start to finish.  In the end, we’re left with that sense of wonder.  If only Miss Gandy hadn’t been so faithful as to destroy all those personal files, I say!  But of course, she did.  Thanks to her, we’ll never know.  Thanks to Clint Eastwood, we know a little more.

 
 

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The City, Made Easy.

Attractive visual summaries are always welcome.  This one of San Francisco proves quite helpful, not only for wandering tourists, but no doubt for more than a few of us who live here.  While I always knew my home was pretty much dead center, with this I now know what really to call– and not to call– my neighborhood.  It is indeed, unequivocally, Corona Heights.

A welcome reality of San Francisco shines, the fact that each area carries its own distinct characteristics.  A medley of adjacent “villages” of varying size and shape come together to form the larger city, which itself of course is not terribly large.  I recommend enjoying several pieces of the puzzle, as I always do.

Where are you, and where would you like to go?  Here it is, made easy.

 
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Posted by on November 14, 2011 in San Francisco

 

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“What has been…

…will be again.”  As construction of the new stretch of the Bay Bridge slowly but surely lumbers along these days, this impressive 1936 photograph almost seems it could have been taken this year.  As with most else, history once more proves cyclical.  The original completed bridge turns 75 tomorrow, having opened to traffic on the 12th of November.  From past to present, what was most certainly will be.

 
 

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Who Knew?

The Sawyer Camp Trail

More than one year now after moving to San Francisco, and after a couple of decades of regularly visiting the area, I continue to be pleasantly surprised by the terrific bicycling routes upon which I stumble.  Along with its distinct topographical characteristics triggering a mental journey to another region of the country altogether– Maryland, Illinois and Wisconsin come to mind– the Sawyer Camp Trail in San Mateo County presents a beautiful slice of nature conveniently close to the City.  Plus, it’s reportedly one of the most popular stretches in the vicinity.  Who knew?  Answer:  Everyone but me apparently, until now that is!

Starting at the north end, the trail’s 12-mile stretch round trip, combined with a loop through Crystal Springs and Hillsborough, yields a respectable and hilly 25-mile route altogether.  This is of course just one of numerous options, another being to add in my nearby favorite Canada Road to Woodside.  Suffice to say, the cycling space continues– in my own ongoing discovery anyway– to expand throughout the peninsula.  I’m just surprised I didn’t discover Sawyer sooner, having been so close.  Now to more that awaits!

 
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Posted by on November 4, 2011 in Cycling, Daily Activities

 

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Perfect

A sunny, warm and crowded Dolores Park.

Surrounding destinations called, but I did not answer.  On such a gloriously warm and sunny weekend as that which just passed, my decision was quite an easy one.  I chose to stay right here in the city all weekend long, close to home, enjoying the beautiful outdoors for the welcome heat that’s always so rare and unpredictable, and for which we usually must travel elsewhere.

Now on this Monday, as fog rolls in and a crisp breeze picks up, this past weekend could very well be the last of its kind we see for quite a while.  All the more reason to have appreciated a perfect Saturday and Sunday here in late October, as so many did.  This is San Francisco, after all!

 
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Posted by on October 24, 2011 in Daily Activities, San Francisco

 

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Pleasure in a Lost Art

“Oh look at you!  I’m liking this,” exclaimed the friendly young woman behind the Starbucks counter as a big smile beamed across her face.  “You must have been somewhere important today, and you even kept it on.  You didn’t change,” was the input from a fellow bar patron later in the evening.  And then there’s always the standard, however vexing, question:  “Job interview?”

No chore here.

Suffice to say, for better and for worse, I always enjoy the reactions I get when sporting a suit and tie around town, aside from my simple personal pleasure in looking and feeling good.  At the same time I wonder why so many people think there has to be a specific and presumably taxing reason for men dressing well, as if it were some sort of uncomfortable inconvenience to be merely tolerated?  Au contraire, I say.  I happen to love dressing up and wish I did more often, for no other reason than choosing to do so.

I recall a dinner on Nob Hill with my parents when I was 11 years old.  As the host handed me a blazer to put on, I turned to my father and asked him why I had to wear it.  “Because we’re now in San Francisco, and people dress here,” was his matter-of-fact reply.  That was 1985.  I have a feeling the same situation in that same restaurant does not exist today, sadly enough.  It’s said the “dot-comers” ruined restaurant dress codes here in the late ’90s, as they afforded en masse to patronize the finest establishments in t-shirts, jeans, and I shudder to think, ball caps.

Fast forward to 2011, to a time when far fewer men dress up anymore, or at least are not required to.  The art of dressing well has been lost, for men anyway.  There always seems to be the woman who appears polished and elegant in a restaurant, sitting across from a man who looks like he just rolled out of bed and did some work on his car.  Poor her!  Or does she mind?

It’s not just a social matter; professionally more and more workers dress down today as well.  Therefore, jumping to the conclusion that my suit and tie indicate a job interview is a bit fallacious; after all, if no one I might be working for is dressed as such, then why would I be?  There’s indeed the faux pas of overdressing in this regard, of which one must be mindful.

Neither a wedding nor a funeral.  No meeting the president, nor appearing in court.  And no presenting myself to any potential employer.  At the end of business hours, come evening, I remained in my same clothing, in no hurry whatsoever to get out of it.  Dressing well is truly a pleasure, one with which I wish more men today agreed and did not consider a chore.  In any case, it’s high time to bring back the art of dressing well, voluntarily and with pride.  That nice young woman at Starbucks is bound to share my opinion, and I’m sure we’re not alone.

 

 
 

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A Welcome Reminder

A motorcycle ride out of San Francisco, north through Napa and Sonoma, and back through the East Bay is an ideal loop for a short-distance, picturesque change of scene on a sunny Sunday afternoon.  I already knew this, and perhaps you did too.  Still, it hit me as a welcome reminder yesterday, especially through the flat, open terrain of Sears Point Road (CA 37) along the northern shore of San Pablo Bay.

From there of course come the numerous beautiful rolling vineyards that sit so refreshingly close to the city.  It’s often easy to lose sight of the topographical diversity surrounding San Francisco, especially when most or all of our time is spent within city limits.  As such, like I said, the reminder is always a welcome one!

 
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Posted by on October 17, 2011 in Daily Activities, Motorcycle

 

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From Here…

 

The view is always good from here, especially on such a warm and pleasant October day as this.  I simply love where I live, as the scenery never grows old.

 
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Posted by on October 12, 2011 in Daily Activities, San Francisco

 

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Very Well Said.

 

 
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Posted by on October 6, 2011 in Famous People

 

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5, 4, 3…

A new iPhone would be nice, and I’m currently eligible for an upgrade.  In about a week I can finally go and get… oh, wait… no I can’t.  Of course I was about to say the new 5, but as revealed yesterday, this is not the case.  No 5 yet exists.  Rather, the 4S is upon us.

Fine, so now what?  Go ahead and get the new 4S, and a year from now remain locked in its contract as the supposed 5s are finally dangled before us?  Or get the existing 4 for a lesser price?  Or, dare I ask, just stay with my existing 3GS that works perfectly fine?

It’s time for anyone with such questions, including myself, to stop, breathe, take a step back, and refocus.  It’s a phone.  I use mine to talk, text, e-mail, take photos and an occasional video, check Facebook, and do a Sudoku puzzle once in a while.  All of these are basics in the smartphone world, each of which functions sufficiently on existing and older iPhone models.  A better camera sounds good, but this alone shouldn’t be the deciding factor.  Beyond that, do I really need a 4S that talks to me and tells me what I need to do or not do at any given time?  Even if so, need I be the first one?

I believe I’ve just answered my own questions.  Have you answered yours?

 
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Posted by on October 5, 2011 in Current Events, News

 

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A “Huge” Problem

As with alcohol and tobacco, to seat belts and motorcycle helmets, government once again has its hand in personal choices.  Fortunately it’s not the U.S. government in this case.

Denmark has instituted a so-called “fat tax,” applying a surcharge to foods that, well, make you fat!  But why?  Obesity isn’t exactly a “huge” problem for this small Scandinavian nation, certainly not compared to the United States.  I’m surprised such a form of taxation hasn’t yet happened here, not that it should of course.

Valid arguments can be made in support of such a measure, but at the same time means other than across-the-board taxation exist for addressing such health concerns, such as education, programs and incentives.  A “fat tax” for all, fat or not, equates to nothing more than unwelcome government control over individual decisions that affect only ourselves.  The “bigger” issue is not what some choose to eat, but rather everyone getting penalized for their own choices.  Herein lies the “larger” matter.

I hope this “first” does not start a global trend.  And that’s my fat opinion.

 
 

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His Last Word (?)

“The one and only” indeed.  Naturally I have to hand it to a man who’s made a lifelong career out of having opinions.  While many manage to pull it off for a while in one form or another, this bold opinion giver is unarguably unique in his brand, carrying a raw style and distinct presentation that are simply unmatched.

As such, it’s a shame to see him go.  Andy Rooney had the last word on CBS’ “60 Minutes” this past Sunday night, for his final regularly scheduled time.  While the 92-year-old “curmudgeonly commentator” is not retiring, so he says, for the first time in more than 30 years he will not be ranting on a weekly basis.  Among all else, he’ll be enjoying his restaurant dinners without your interruption, while NOT giving you his autograph.  Still, as his mind continues to churn, Rooney’s last word last night may very well not be his last.

I admire the type of people there’s only one of, and there’s certainly only one Andy Rooney, the product of a nearly extinct generation we may not see again anytime soon.  He has some very big shoes to fill.  But then, will anyone dare try?

 
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Posted by on October 3, 2011 in Current Events, Famous People, News

 

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Surprise & Commendation

A man of surprises.

Twice in one month!  That is, two unexpected yet impressive quotes out of the often-unpredictable mouth of California Governor Jerry Brown.

A few weeks ago, upon vetoing a bill to require skiers under 18 to wear helmets, the third-term Democrat stated:  “Not every human problem deserves a law.”

Then this week, in expediting the process for construction of a new stadium in Los Angeles despite legal and environmental challenges, Brown declared:  “But there are too many damn regulations… Let’s cut the barriers and regulations and move ahead.”

It sounds to me like this historically big-government career politician is undergoing a left-to-center shift in his return to the job he held three decades ago.  Perhaps this is precisely Brown’s strategy, appealing to a more centrist and even right-leaning audience in his now golden political years.  Let’s just hope it’s not the old “bait-and-switch” routine, distracting us with attractive less-government rhetoric while seeking a way to circumvent Prop 13 and raise property taxes.  Since thankfully he cannot do such a thing quickly or alone, I’ll keep my suspicion in check for now — if not my cynicism — and rest simply on his most recent and refreshing quotes.

Words like the above from Governor Jerry Brown capture my attention and earn my praise.  To my own surprise, on this, I commend him.  And I know I’m not alone, in either surprise or commendation.

 
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Posted by on September 30, 2011 in And That's My Opinion, Famous People, Politics

 

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J.R. Lives!

He made it!  J.R. Ewing has hit his latest milestone, as Larry Hagman today turns 80 years old.

Now 16 years since Hagman’s well-publicized liver transplant, and 31 years after his character Ewing’s world-famous (though of course fictitious) gunshot wounds, the TV icon enters his new decade in the midst of reprising his infamous role.  That is, a new version of “Dallas” is coming our way in 2012, as Hagman celebrates a big day he once thought he’d never see.  I’m certainly thrilled that he is indeed here for it.

The eldest Ewing brother lives, in more ways than one.  Happy 80th J.R.!

 
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Posted by on September 21, 2011 in Dallas, Famous People, Media, News

 

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On Grizzly Peak

For the curving ascents and descents amid terrific views and less-than-terrific pavement, I’m immediately reminded of Mulholland Drive.  After various recent moments of watching cyclists pass by my friends’ home, plus one occasion of exploring the route by motorcycle, finally this weekend I pedaled my way along a significant stretch of Grizzly Peak Boulevard through the hills of Berkeley.

It really is the Bay Area’s Mulholland equivalent, as far as I’m concerned.  As such, like Mulholland for its winding and challenging terrain, I see why Grizzly Peak is so popular among cyclists.  A simple Google search for “Grizzly Peak Cycling” instantly reveals how well established this thoroughfare is on two wheels.

While my first relatively short-distance ride was certainly a good workout, my next will be an even better one, thanks to additional miles in store.  Like other terrific Bay Area cycling roads, I highly recommend this one!

 
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Posted by on September 18, 2011 in Cycling, Daily Activities

 

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Like The Rest of Us

The editorials are pouring in, as predicted.  Plenty of journalists, bloggers and assorted voices have an opinion on the opinions of Jacqueline Kennedy (pre-Onassis).  I don’t blame them, as I’m one among them after all.  Jackie is, to say the least, an immortal icon of unmatched mystique.

She was also, may I say again, human.  First Lady Kennedy held outlooks and impressions of everything and everyone, not from the same viewpoint as the rest of us, but still– just like the rest of us.  As such, nothing revealed this week via the release of her 1964 audio recordings strikes me as “shocking.”  On the contrary, I find her words refreshing, though-provoking and of course, amusing!

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis lived on for 30 years after making these tapes, moving through three decades of life in which her positions grew and evolved, again not like the rest of us, but– just like the rest of us.  While she may well be disagreed with, I see no reason for outright criticism.

For all the “grace, fortitude and civility” afforded to her over the past 50 years, Jackie is now, posthumously, more human than ever before.  After decades of her self-imposed guardedness that lasted well beyond her death, we’re now hearing from her directly and candidly.  While this may be “shocking” to some– or worse yet, “less than flattering,” we finally have a more complete picture of a beautiful, captivating– and imperfect– human being, just like the rest of us, but not.

Thank you, Jackie.  And that’s my opinion.

 

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A Woman of Opinions

She was soft-spoken and never granted interviews.  This doesn’t mean she lacked opinions, however, because as we are soon about to see, she most certainly did!  The late great Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis is posthumously making headlines 17 years after her death and a half century after becoming first lady.

The privilege of hearing some of her more candid remarks is finally coming to us, in the form of 1964 audio tape recordings that are now becoming available to the public for the first time in history.  While naturally I can’t wait to hear them, a few humorous tidbits have already leaked out.  And to think I already own a Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis quote book, which apparently will need a new edition!

A figure of extraordinary allure and unparalleled style speaks to us “now” from a time long past, revealing her refreshing humanity in the face of the often seemingly unrefreshing position she held.  As much as I’ve always admired her, Jackie has just earned a big fresh dose of my respect.  And although I’ve never thought of her as snarky, this is not hard to believe.  This understandable personality trait was simply well-concealed under the obligatory “nice” veneer of her White House years, making her all the more fascinating to us today.  Suffice to say, when Jackie speaks, I readily listen.  It appears I’m not alone.

Here’s to a unique and unmatched woman of opinions!

 
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Posted by on September 13, 2011 in Current Events, Famous People, News, Politics, Presidential

 

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Keep ’em On!

I won’t hold my breath.  Still, whenever the day does come– hopefully sooner than later– we can celebrate one significant step in the direction of not only ease and efficiency, but overall sense and sanity.

“Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano recently offered some good news for air travelers: The days of marching through airport security checkpoints in your stocking feet may soon be over.”  (LA Times)  Read the full article here.

In other words, our footwear will remain on our feet, allegedly, thanks to improvements in TSA screening technology.  Trust me, you’ll welcome this change the next time you’re wearing tall boots!

Now about those liquids…

 
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Posted by on September 12, 2011 in And That's My Opinion, News, Travel

 

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On The Map…

Some groovy original signage, complete with martini!

From Downieville to Mineral via Quincy, on through Red Bluff and Redding to Shingletown and seemingly forever beyond, my motorcycle carried me some 800 miles this past Labor Day weekend, in the company of three motorcycling friends.  In addition to the undeniable fact this was one long and exhausting journey, pockets of California appeared before me that never before had, some I never knew existed!

Our location remained a mystery to me much of the time, meaning… I really had no idea where we were!   Still, I always love an adventure, especially one in which the planning is done for me.  Had I looked at our route map ahead of time, I might have been tempted to try to alter our ambitious mountain journey.  Silly me to think the four of us were riding straight to Redding.  Suffice to say, the element of surprise ultimately worked in my psychological favor.  Tired?  Yes.  Sorry?  No.

My favorite stretch of road had to be Highway 36, heading west from Mineral down into Red Bluff.  It’s here I took notice of the highest number I’ve ever seen on my SV’s digital speedometer… and I suppose that’s all we’ll say about that.  Lassen Volcanic National Park is stunning and well worth the visit, while there’s no doubt far more surrounding terrain remaining for me to explore.  With a tinge of regret, after 400 miles of riding on Saturday I opted out of Sunday’s jaunt to Klamath Falls, Oregon, a city I memorably visited in 1998 and to which I’d be curious to return.  Instead, Redding’s Hilton Garden Inn satisfactorily relaxed me throughout the hot late afternoon.  This, before a festive and filling group dinner followed by the enjoyment of some “local color” on the eve of another 250 miles of throttle to get us home.  Monday’s dinner stop in Napa topped off the long weekend quite nicely.

I’m reminded of the enjoyment of motorcycle use for more than just daily stop-and-go city commuting.  Such a two-wheeled journey does not come often for me, nor will it.  When it does, however, I’m generally pleased.  And in this case, I’m happy to say Northeastern California is now on the map… mine, that is!

 
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Posted by on September 6, 2011 in Motorcycle, Travel

 

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I’ll Be Back

On this auspicious occasion of my father’s birthday, I finally acted on his months-old suggestion to visit the House of Shields.  The website states upfront:  “In keeping with tradition, there is no clock on premises, nor is there a T.V.”  I must add:  There is no designated happy hour– as in no drink specials– and also, perhaps contrary to my father’s half-century-old recollection, no food.  In 103 years of history, solid nourishment was served once upon a time, I’m told.  Alas, no longer is this the case.  So do not show up hungry!

What does exist is a convenient if not surprisingly small spot to get a decent drink in San Francisco’s financial district, anytime throughout the afternoon long into the evening.  On the city’s sizable list of historical watering holes, the House of Shields has clearly earned its place, obviously having served countless thirsty patrons throughout the decades.  From the intricate woodwork, to the detailed tile, and even to the seemingly original bathroom, you can tell this special place has been around a while and deserves respect.  I only wish the overall tone were a bit warmer.  Fortunately my acceptably sized Hendricks martini upped the temperature a bit.  All in all, I’ll be back!

 
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Posted by on August 31, 2011 in Current Events, Drink, Restaurants, Reviews

 

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“Intellectually Powerful” Indeed.

It’s been a while since I’ve mentioned her in writing.  Still, she’s never far from my mind, as her music dominates my iTunes playlist.  She is– and has been for years– my single favorite songwriter and musical performer of all time.  As I’ve often said and still believe, she’s wonderful therapy– much less expensive that you’ll pay by the hour no doubt!

As such, I’m always delighted to read about Mary Chapin Carpenter in the news.  Such coverage assures me she’s active, performing, and hopefully hard at work on her next album.  I simply wish the East Coast “Hometown Girl” would pay a visit to California once in a while.  In the meantime, her “intellectually powerful” music lives on!

 
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Posted by on August 22, 2011 in Current Events, Music

 

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