« August 2007 | Main | October 2007 »

September 30, 2007

Random, uncited quotes of the day

"I saw 'beyondness' as secondarily-considered 'non-such-ity" and it became otherwise. Otherwise, I would have identified nonesuch a second "beyond" consideration, beyond even seeing, as such."


"The wide expanse of your heart is not hindered by uncertain abstractions or obstructions. Nor are there fences in the open sky of your mind."


"She smiles and the doors fly open. She breathes, and the room explodes."


September 29, 2007

Lock Your Doors...

toiletpaper.jpg

FOND DU LAC, Wis. - Someone is either too cheap to buy his own toilet paper or planning a big prank.

Fond du Lac County Executive Allen Buechel said someone has been repeatedly stealing toilet paper from the men's public bathrooms at the Fond du Lac City County Government Center since June.

Buechel suspects the person comes in once or twice a week around midday and gets about six rolls a week from dispensers. Some rolls weren't even full, he said.

The thefts haven't been a big loss.

"We don't buy the best toilet paper," Buechel said.

He expects the thief to get caught. "Someone is going to walk in on him when he's doing it and we'll catch him," he said.

Courthouse officials are on the lookout for suspicious activity.

County sheriff Capt. Dean Will didn't return a call for comment Friday.

The Mercer Report

Ran into this fellow's show while up in Canada, found it fairly amusing.

September 28, 2007

The old "College Try."

I could have as easily gone with "where are they now?"...but since i love The Young Ones...

Notice a younger Hugh Laurie playing for Footlight's College Oxbridge...

First RIAA case to go to trial will be in Duluth

291106riaa.jpg
The first jury trial since the RIAA began its litigation campaign more than 4 years ago will be happening in Duluth!
Tuesday, October 2nd, 9:00 AM - Duluth Courthouse
Good luck Jammie!

Recording Industry vs. The People
Groklaw
RIAA Memorandum in Support of Motion for summary adjudication
Defendant's Memorandum in Opposition to RIAA Memorandum in Support of Motion for summary adjudication

Smoke Up!

camel_man1.jpg

The statewide smoking ban starts on Monday!

Good? Bad?

Discuss.

September 27, 2007

This Saturday!

Please show up and support your local artists and musicians and join the raffle for local treats!

Photo Sharing and Video Hosting at Photobucket

Zra says I should title this post "Birth Control"

Okay, anyone with young kids will most likely have heard of "The Wiggles." They're four Australian guys (who, incidentally, used to be in a hard-rock band called The Cockroaches) who sing children's music and have elaborate stage shows for children. I call them 'crack for babies' as the majority of children I've run into become hypnotized if The Wiggles are anywhere within a 50-yard radius.

Anyway, they do have some grownup humor, too, which is the only thing that makes them bearable for adults. One of my favorite songs is a cover of the "Hoop-de-doo Polka" on one of their live show dvds. There's plenty of humor during this little clip and it is interesting on so many levels - not only the lyrics, which are decidedly unchildlike, but the oddity of four Australian blokes playing a northern Minnesota polka. Admittedly, Perry Como made it famous but the Iron Range knew it best. So for your enjoyment, I present The Wiggles and the Hoop De Doo Polka!

Colorful Horizons.

papawasarodeo.jpg

Just a reminder that the Chris Monroe T-Shirt show is tomorrow from 5-8PM.

Starfire Screen Printing Co.
1131 E 4th St
Duluth, MN.

In case you have not seen the Duluth News Tribune today there is a nice cover article in the Wave with C. Monroe. She talks about the new show, her children's book and her weekly strip. I for one will attest that the new work is amazing. If you are thinking about buying a Monroe original I would suggest you arrive promptly at 5 tomorrow.

There will also be T-shirts and pennants for those of you on a budget. Hope to see you all there.


Final wow at the WoW

Skating4.jpg

I can't believe World of Wheels is closing right before National Rolling Skating Month. Oh, well. It was good while it lasted.

SkatingWoW.jpg

Skating1.jpg

Skating2.jpg

Skating3.jpg

Skating5.jpg

now, if this isn't

creepy, i don't know what is.

"Marry Our Daughter is an introduction service assisting those following the Biblical tradition of arranging marriages for their daughters"

I'm a little grossed out right now...and reading some of the testimonials, like this one from Jack M.:

"At first we were worried that Janine was too young to get married, but then her new husband bought her a house and a car and jewelry and the money we got let us buy a house for ourselves. Getting out of the trailer park at our age was the best thing that ever happened to us, and it’s all thanks to Marry Our Daughter!"

...makes me even more so.

September 26, 2007

Prince: WTF?

I'm going to commit heresy, Minnesota-style, and just ask: What the hell is up with Prince?

My [admittedly Wikipedia-based] research finds the following:

+ Regarding his first album, For You: "This album had no band on it -- Prince supposedly played all 27 instruments on the album himself. Members of his band, the New Power Generation, however, say that Prince only knows how to play 25 instruments."

+ Regarding a 1980 American Bandstand appearance: "Dick Clark expressed surprise that Prince & his bandmates hailed from Minneapolis "of all places". For the rest of the interview, Prince refused to speak, instead answering questions by gesturing with his face & hands."

+ Using weird syntax: "'in its current 4m there is a feeling that the NPGMC gone as far as it can go. In a world without limitations and infinite possibilities, has the time come 2 once again make a leap of faith and begin anew? These r ?s we in the NPG need 2 answer. In doing so, we have decided 2 put the club on hiatus until further notice.'"

[All quotes from Wikipedia]

What's up with the penciled-on mustache? The story about him going door-to-door proselytizing for the Jehovah's Witness Church? That Charlie Murphy "True Hollywood Story" on The Chapelle Show?

I mean, I think "Purple Rain" is a great song, but for a Minnesotan, this behavior seems out of line.

Stuffin Stockings

For all you crafty types out there, Charitable Crafters will be holding a free crafting day at Kelly J's Quilt Store this Saturday from 10-3. We'll be working on making holiday stockings and stocking stuffers for our 2007 Stuff a Stocking project. If you're a knitter, crocheter, quilter, or you're a paper crafter and interested in making stocking tags, join us for the day!

I'll have free fabric/yarn and patterns for sewing, knitting and crocheting. If you have a sewing machine, bring it along. I'll bring some treats, but you might want to bring an actual lunch.

If you're interested in donating store bought stocking stuffers, check out our website for a list of ideas.

Eco-Home at Hawk Ridge Open House Tours

Every Tuesday and Thursday form 3-8 and every 2nd Sunday of each month 12-4 there are open house tours going on at the Eco Home. This will go on till May 2008, so come check it out. Bring a friend. It's a home demonstrating solar power, and basically everything you could do to make a home sustainable and eco friendly and energy efficient by using green building practices. There is a ton of literature there too, about everything eco you can imagine. Take Superior St. to 52nd Ave East, go up till you get to the dead end, take a right onto Broadwing Drive, take a right onto Snowy Owl Circle, follow to 2809. There will be a big Eco-Home sign. visit www.womenworking.org to see pictures and get more info.

Middle East Expert Speaking Tonight; Hear about Ireland Tomorrow

ottaway_color_medium.jpg

“The Changing Balance of Power in the Middle East: The Impact of the War in Iraq”
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
7:00 p.m.
Chemistry 200, UMD
Reception following lecture
Free and open to the public

The 2007-2008 Alworth International Lecture Series kicks off tonight with a lecture by Dr. Marina S. Ottaway, Middle East Program Director at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. “The Changing Balance of Power in the Middle East: The Impact of the War in Iraq” will focus on the Middle East and regional consequences stemming from the war in Iraq, particularly with respect to the balance of power in Iran.

Alworth International Brown Bag Series Presents:

“History and Significance of Sacred Sights in Ireland”
Thursday, September 27
12:00 p.m.
UMD Library Fourth Floor Rotunda

The Irish countryside is dotted with sites of sacred significance. From prehistoric burial sites dating back to 2500 B.C. through centuries of sacred and religious traditions, Ireland has much to offer the modern-day pilgrim. Pauline Nuhring, Continuing Education Associate Administrator and Brown Bag veteran, will share stories and pictures taken during her own Irish pilgrimage in March 2007.

September 25, 2007

What's your favorite?

Q2.jpg

[Anchor burger menu verbatim.]

HAMBURGER.....PLAIN BUT PEASANT 2.25
CHEESEBURGER......YOU ARE IN WISCONSIN 2.50
SWISSBURGER..LOTS OF CHEESE BUT NO MOUTAINS 2.75
CALIFORNIA....CHEESE, TOMATO, LETTUCE 3.00
BACONBURGER....BACON,CHEESE, TOMATO 3.00
MEXICAN BURGER...LETTUCE, TOMATO, SALSA, CHEESE 3.00
MUSHROOM AND SWISS....SELF EXPLAINATORY 3.00
SOURCREAM AND MUSHROOM ....LOTS OF S&M 3.00
HAWIIANBURGER.....PINEAPPLE SLICE AND SWISS 3.00
RUEBENBURGER....SOURKRAUT AND SWISS 3.00
ANCHOR SUPREME.....SLICE OF HAM AND CHEESE 3.00
CASHEWBURGER....CASHEWS AND SWISS 3.50
OLIVE BURGER.....GREEN OLIVES AND CREME CHEESE 3.25
BLUECHEESE BURGER.....BURGER NOT REALLY BLUE 3.00
JALAPENOBURGER......JALAPENOS, BOTH CHEESES 3.50
ANCHORBURGER..2/3 LB MEAT, TOMATO, CHEESE LETTUCE 4.25
GALLYBUSTER.....TRIPLE CHEESEBURGER, 1 LB...5.25

Personally, I think the Anchor Supreme is the best $3.00 you'll ever spend.

Mp3 music

In the past we have talked about AllMP3 which more or less has been hobbled, not by governments directly but by the all mighty VISA credit card monopoly. Anyhow, There is now a new alternative, not as cheap, but entirely legit and DRM free (which was my major Itunes avoidance reason), songs are mostly encoded at 256 variable kbps, and where not it is at 256 constant kpbs, and run about .89 - .99 per song. I've long said that I'd be willing to shop online MP3s if there where in that price range and DRM free, so I guess I get to put my money where my mouth is. The provider? Amazon.com. My small prediction is that now that a major player is directly competing against them DRM free Itunes is going to have to follow suit PDQ. My major reason for use will be all those import albums that cost an arm and a leg to get physically are going to be so much cheaper and faster to obtain.

More pipeline talk

Following up on this previous PDD discussion...

...Enbridge pipeline is being fined for over 100 violations. More at the DNT.

Here's That Image You Were Trying to Post, Zoey

zoey_socks.jpg

September 24, 2007

Lace up your skates

Download file


As you all may know by now, the World of Wheels will be closing its doors on October 1st. Never again will I win a fruit roll up for my impressive ability to hula hoop on wheels. Never again will I get yelled at for skating into the limbo stick instead of under it. But enough about me, what is going to happen to everyone else??? You know, the regulars. What else are they going to do? I can't even fathom how frustating it will be to have all those hot roller moves stored up inside with no where to display them. That can't be healthy. I for one am heading over to the World of Wheels one last time this Wednesday. Hope to see you all there, say, around 7:30?


fun show this saturday

001.jpg

Misunderstood Quote

On Sunday, the Duluth News Tribune published a feature story on the recent rampage in the Boundary Waters. The story was about the historic tensions between tourists who want to canoe in silence, and locals who were forced to stop using motorized boats when the area became an official Wilderness in 1978.

To point out a possible connection between this old feud and the men who terrorized campers last month, the DNT pulls a quote from one of the goofballs' MySpace:

On his MySpace page, Travis John Erzar describes himself as a “motor boatin son of a [expletive].”

Yeah ... uh ... that's not really a quote about motorized watercraft, as much as an often-quoted line from the movie Wedding Crashers referring to ... uh ... a different kind of "motorboating."

Every 19-year-old in northern Minnesota is laughing their ass off right now.

Looking for Magician(s)

CNo9B4_Magicians_Red.jpg
Volunteer for Scarium at the Aquarium.
Oct. 28
11-3pm

one week...

BeanersCentral_OneWeek6.jpg

'one week live', Beaners Centrals' annual birthday celebration/live recording starts tonight at 7pm.
$5 except for Wednesday, which is free.

Come any or every night!

September 23, 2007

New favorite band?

sunny day.jpg

a sunny day in glasgow.

(link's fixed...thanks ironic.)

Anybody?

So back in 1991 or 92 America's Funniest People filmed a few episodes in Duluth. I worked on the North Shore Scenic Railroad at the time and was featured twice. One time I was doing the hokey pokey on the train and another my friend Karin and I were rapping some Raven Simone song in the cab of the locomotive. I think I am saying, "check out my crew while I rap to this!" Why am I sharing this you may ask?
Does anyone still have those episodes on tape? I know lots of Duluth people were featured and I was thinking maybe, just maybe someone has those episodes. We taped them at the time but I lost a lot of old VHS tapes when my mom's house burned down.
SO. Anyone else on those episodes?

While we're at it-anyone still have any old tapes of my radio show on KUMD? I am trying to round those up too. It was Laurie and the Freak Show, mainly on Saturday nights. I only seem to have one show left-my tribute to Timothy Leary.

Marcel Marceau, 1923-2007

marcel2.jpg

September 22, 2007

Hot Button Time!!

strawberries_n_beers.jpgHere's a pic I took in Chester Creek on this friday night, it says it all. Beer cans crowding one of the strawberry patches. I've been holding off on this one but after last night, gloves are off. Where do YOU fall on the "rental" issue? Last night, I watched drunk underage UMD freshmen scatter from a house party as the house renters barricade themselves inside. "This is the Dultuh Police, OPEN THE DOOR!" At one point, a girl and guy jumped off the roof od the front porch, 15' to the ground. He was ok but the girl hit like a sack of potatoes and was carried off by her friends to avoid trying to blow a breathalizer with a cracked rib cage. Point is I love living in a college town, I'm super excited to be in Duluth when there's something that could be called a "Duluth Latino Community" I'm in love with DIVERSITY...It's DENSITY I have a problem with...the RAPE of the college neighborhoods by the "investors" , as they call themselves, who own countless FRAT HOUSES. As they put it in a full page stetesman ad last week, "The city council wants you out of the neighborhoods"...Oh really!?!?! I'm here to say,I WANT STUDENTS IN MY NEIGHBORHOOD, I DONT WANT DRUNK ASS PARTIERS PISSING ON MY PEONES...please share...

vacation

Graveyard of the Atlantic

September 21, 2007

Rare Performance

frog.jpg

Great show at Luce this Sunday night if you can swing it. Charlie Parr, Jack Rose & Glenn Jones: three of the best artists in their genre, all sharing the same stage. If you haven't heard of the latter two, you're in for a musical treat. This is a rare one, folks - - this amazing lineup will never happen again. The fact alone that Jack Rose is performing in Duluth is incredible. Try not to miss this one if you can; you won't be disappointed. Show starts at 9 pm. http://www.myspace.com/jackrosekensington & http://www.myspace.com/glennjonesguitar

September 20, 2007

Typical

I say habeas, you say corpus.

Call To Artists: 4th Annual Area 61 UFO Convention

(reposted to keep on top of the pile of baseball cards)

Area 61 invites you to submit your UFO/weird science/paranormal art.

Event featuring Lectures, Movies, Art Show, Witness Forum, Live Music, Libations, Vendors, Video Games, Bigfoot, Lake Monsters, Ghost Hunters, Costume Contest, Prizes, Weirdos, Roundtrip Free Transport to/from Carmody's Pub in Duluth.

Hosted by Gonzo Science brothers Jim Richardson & Allen Richardson.

Saturday October 20th
All Day All Night only $5
Lakeview Castle, 5135 Northshore Drive, Duluth

Music (all ages): Cloud Cult, Crew Jones, The Keep Aways, More

Entries by Friday October 12 to jill at [email protected]. Please include Artist's Name & Contact Information, Brief Description of piece, Title of piece, Medium, Dimensions, & any Special needs (electricity, large space, etc.) you may have. Thanks!

www.gonzoscience.com

Heard you had some rainfall...








It could be worse.

Garage Sale this Saturday!

Where: 2328 Butler Ave. Superior, WI
Who: Pat and Rachel from Nordic Waste & The Undesirables + Ryan (the SuperTacks) and Jane will host a kick ass garage sale from 9-4 this Saturday. All kinds of stuff, don't really know what's all going to be there but stop by anyway.

NO MORE WAR

TOMORROW, yo.

Strike4Peace.jpg

Every day the war in Iraq rages on, human casualties on all sides mount, while resources are drained that should be used to help our communities here. It's time to bring the troops home NOW.

This Friday, September 21st, break your daily routine to demand an end to the war and honor those whose lives have been needlessly lost:

· Gather in solidarity with people creating positive change to end the war
· Learn how to change your life to become a peacemaker in your local community
· Create the conditions that make it impossible for our foreign policy to lead us into wars

Take the day from work or school on Friday September 21st to begin building a world free of war. Observing “business as usual” allows the Iraq war to continue and future wars to develop –- in which more lives of US troops and other soldiers and citizens will be lost. The best way to support the troops is to end war and bring them home. The best way to create a world free of war is to work together to make choices and take actions that lead to peace.

WORKSHOPS will take place from 9 - 11 AM and 1:30 - 5:30 PM at the Building for Women (32 E. 1st St.). They will cover a variety of topics on the theme of "creating conditions that make it impossible for the war-makers to continue their business-as-usual."

MARCH AND RALLY--Gather at 11:30 AM at the Clayton-Jackson-McGhee Memorial (2nd Ave. E and 1st St.) for the march; Rally at Noon at the Civic Center (government buildings).

FUNDRAISING CONCERT featuring Sara Thomsen, Rachel Kilgour and Max Dakota will be held from 7:30 - 11:30 PM at the Building for Women.

PEACE!!!

September 19, 2007

Justin Roth

If anyone feels oh so inclined they should come check out Justin Roth, UMD alum, singer/songwriter, at Amazing Grace this coming Sunday at 7pm. $10 cover but totally worth it. Support the local arts! I mean, what better do you have to do on a Sunday evening than listen to great music while munching a scone and sipping an italian soda?

http://www.myspace.com/justinrothmusic
http://www.youtube.com/justinrothmusic

Because I can...

deck9171211.jpg

The Impact of the War in Iraq

Dr. Marina Ottaway, Middle East Director of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Washington, D.C. will present “The Changing Balance of Power in the Middle East: The Impact of the War in Iraq” onWednesday, September 26, 2007.

Ottaway’s lecture will focus on the Middle East and regional consequences stemming from the war in Iraq, particularly with respect to the balance of power in Iran. The lecture and reception (good food), which is free and open to the public, will be held in Chemistry 200, UMD, at 7 p.m.

a perfect gin drink?

gin.jpg

What some people spend their time on.

behold!
The $10,000 gin and tonic.

Arr

arr.gif

Happy Talk Like a Pirate Day.

Woz In D-list

wozgriff.jpg

So... the Woz and... Kathy Griffith... are dating.

Looking For Work?

Some new job openings.

New Hand, New Game

Not that baseball is anywhere near played out (I'm pretty sure Paul could last for weeks) but I just wanted to start fresh and remind everyone that there is a gold mine out there in ...

basketball. NBA, ABA, etc. the choice is yours. Personally, I'm partial to the red,white and blue ball...

artis-gilmore-at-1.jpg

I open with an Artis.

Biggest Claude of them all

ClaudeOsteen.jpg

For Christa.

sandy_koufax_autograph.jpg

funny, he doesn't look Jewish...

Ok, let's try this again...

Halloweird preflyer:

halloweird_pre_small.jpg

OMG this will be wacko! I love Halloween....

More info. soon.

September 18, 2007

No his face isn't melting...

mossiwins.jpg

And another thing...

bump_wills_autograph.jpg

So, it's gonna be like that, is it?

oddibe_mcdowell_autograph.jpg ozzie_guillen_autograph.jpg ozzie_smith_autograph.jpg

But who's the most famous of them all?

AmosOtis.JPG

My Contribution to This Madness

My next cat will be named after Mookie.

Jutze and Aase

don aase.jpgskip jutze.jpg


The play by play: 'The pitch from Aase to Jutze. Jutze juts out his bat showing bunt. Jutze just makes contact and hits it back to Aase. It skips off the mound and hit him in the ass! Aase recovers, and just beats Jutze to the bag. Aase really hustled his ass on that one.'

I'm Booger and More Powellful Than All of You

BoogPowell.jpg

TABPOTN - 3

rick reuschel.jpg

I was going to wait until tomorrow to post this, but here goes: (commentary by Sherman)

I just love how he has the same face in two different cards.
I imagine his photo shoot went something like this:

Photographer, "Are you ready for your baseball card picture Rick?"

Rick, "I reckon I am."

Photographer, "Ok, on three, one..., two..."

Somebody else, "Hey Rick, isn't that someone stealing your car?"

Photographer, "Three." Click.

Just for good measure

RicoCarty.jpg

I can go all night.

Sweet Music.

frank_viola_autograph.jpg

Eat some Hosken, bitches

Hosken1.jpg

But kudos for the "Bubble Gum" Bevacqua, Cookie B.

My take on the madness...

majorleaguep.jpg

"Remember, fans, Tuesday is Die Hard Night. Free admission for anyone who was actually alive the last time the Indians won the pennant."

It is SO on!

catfish_hunter_autograph.jpg oil_can_boyd_autograph.jpg

The "Bad Dad" Video Clip

What's Mr. Nice and Kat Kitten's take on offspring and office worthiness?

Kat Kitten flanked by her bodycats, Ebby and Eve

kk 8.JPG

Write In Candidate Website is up!

Kat Kitten, a kinder, gentler alternative to Mr. Nice, has launched her website at www.katkittenformayor.blogspot.com. Don't like Mr. Bell, Mr. Ness, or Mr. Nice? Vote for Kat Kitten! Her special interests are kids and kats.

The Champ !!!!!

kurtbevacquacard.jpg


Speaking of the Brew Crew, this is the all-time greatest card ever. May Kurt's reign never end.

Bombo Baby!!!

1979449Rivera.jpg
I swear this is my last one, but this whole thing would somehow be so incomplete without Bombo Rivera.

Terry Freakin Forster

Forster87.jpg

Or as old-school Letterman fans will remember him.. The Fat Tub of Goo.

the mustache always wins

Oh Yeah?

Two words:

Bake_McBride_77_1080.jpg

Candidate Forum Tonight!!

Campus Neighbors is hosting the first post-primary candidate forum. All council candidates and both mayoral candidates have been invited. This will be an opportunity to ask questions and hear how each candidate responds.

Woodland Middle School
201 Clover Street
7:00-9:00

Sing!

chorus illustration.gif

Sing! A Women's Chorus Fall 2007 Session begins September 26.
We sing rounds and traditional music from the U.S., Europe, and Africa, and original compositions by the instructor. Songs are learned in the oral tradition, no music reading. Sing! provides an especially positive environment for new or returning singers.

Wednesdays 5:30pmm - 6:45pm
Woodland Middle School
Sept. 26 - Dec. 5
$25.00
Instructor: Mags David

Woodland Community School 728-7463
Duluth Community Education


Filtered!

I went to check PDD today at work and got this:

Access Denied (content_filter_denied)

Your request was denied because of its content categorization: "Forum/Bulletin Boards"

For assistance, contact your network support team.

The funny part is I am the network support team.

Don't Tase Me, Bro.


There's all sorts of kids getting tasered at school on the YouTube, apparently. Bro.

September 17, 2007

PDD in the DNT, once more

Once again, we've managed to weasel our way into the local paper of record.

"New local Web sites compile useful information for people on the go"

We get a mention at the end, even though the article is in the business section and we aren't even trying to make money. Plus we're not new, but rather we're the "granddaddy" of local websites, as the article states. My only big regret was that I forgot to work the aggregator into the interview. Doh!

Anyway, good job everybody. Keep posting and making PDD great.


Other sites mentioned in the article


TABPOTN - 2 by Sherman

rowland office.jpg

Everyone wants to work in a Rowland Office!

Upping the Ante

cookie_rojas_autograph.jpg StrRojas.JPG

Sherman/Berv, I see your Bill Greif and raise you two Cookie Rojas'.

Totally Awesome Baseball Player of the Night - by Sherman

Bill Grief.jpg

Good grief!

R.I.P. World of Wheels

World of Wheels in Superior will be closing its doors at the end of the month.

Corn Maize!

corn maze kid.jpg

it's that time again

The Wrenshall Corn Maze (or more properly the Silver Brook Corn Maze) is open pretty much every weekend until Oct 27-29, and then on Halloween from 6-10.

I'm envisioning a PDD expototion...

anyone anyone?

The T-shirt Show!

MonroeArtShow.jpg

Twin Ports Starving Artist Fundraiser

Saturday, September 29th
$5.00 cover
Andervald's Art Studio - Downtown Duluth near the casino.

http://www.myspace.com/starvingartistfundraiser

Please check (and add to friends) for more details and updates.

"A $5 cover will be charged at the door to raise money for the artists presented in the show. More details will be presented soon with more information ie. which bands playing and what time everything will happen. If you are interested in donating to help out local artists in need of financial help, please contact [email protected] "

Did You Know…

The Recording Industry Association of America won a decision last year before the Copyright Office saying that ringtones weren't derivative works, meaning they don't infringe on the copyright of the songwriter? You could go so far as to call the RIAA "a cartel acting collusively in violation of the antitrust laws and of public policy, by tying their copyrights to each other, collusively litigating and settling all cases together, and by entering into an unlawful agreement among themselves to prosecute and to dispose of all cases in accordance with a uniform agreement, and through common lawyers, thus overreaching the bounds and scope of whatever copyrights they might have."

Meaning, "We represent you, but thanks for the free money, sucker."

I used to think we should change the inscription on the back of the dollar bill from "E Pluribus Unum" to "I Got Mine, Fuuuck You." But now if wonder if "LawyerLawyerLawyerShillLawyerLawyer" wouldn't be better.

Here.

Here.

Here (with a little bit of Apple).

EDIT: Jay Maris is the new Leeeeroy Jenkins.

Low-Family Tree

This song and animation is from a new show on Nickelodeon called Yo Gabba Gabba. Enjoy.

September 16, 2007

DSMIC

Welcome to the Duluth-Superior Metropolitan Interstate Council.

Fifth-best Nonchalant Jaunt ever!

NonchalantJaunt01.JPG

Although Zoey (far left) had been with me on three of the past four Nonchalant Jaunts, the rest of the crew were rookies. Chris, John, Anna and Anthony faced the challenge head-on and emerged as champions.

Things looked bleak in the beginning, with only three jaunters showing up. I crawled into a tube of despair.

NonchalantJaunt02.JPG NonchalantJaunt02b.JPG

But Zoey got on the phone and rounded up two recruits. We went to the Amazing Grace Bakery & Cafe for coffee, where John met us. Then we went to the Lake Superior Marine Museum to watch an inspirational movie about bulk loading iron ore.

NonchalantJaunt03.JPG NonchalantJaunt04.JPG NonchalantJaunt05.JPG

After stopping at Zoey's for cookies and muffins, we were ready to go with our final recruits, Chris and Anthony. It was already after noon, but we finally made it to the beach. Our initial jaunt was short, however. We soon had to stop to eat Marc Gartman's cookies and drink Shanna Willie's beer.

NonchalantJaunt06.JPG NonchalantJaunt07.JPG

Eventually, the jaunt gained momentum. We passed the wicked crucifix bush, had an impromptu volleyball game, dug various trenches, teased John about his Aiwa fanny pack ... it was all coming together.

NonchalantJaunt08.JPG NonchalantJaunt09.JPG

Victory was ours when we reached the end of Minnesota Point and gave Wisconsin the bird.

NonchalantJaunt10.JPG NonchalantJaunt11.JPG

Following the jaunt, we went to the Anchor Bar, where all good days reach their climax.

September 15, 2007

Bell Calls Donny a "Bad Daddy" for Running for Mayor

Well, not exactly those words, but that was Charlie's point in an interview with the local Fox affiliate last Wednesday. Now he's trying to take it all back and make it all better.

His exact words were...

I think you’ve got your priorities wrong here. I’ve always wanted to be running for public office because of my civic involvement. I’ve seen the problems Duluth has with City Hall. City Hall needs leadership — proactive leadership, aggressive leadership...

But I had to spend my time with kids. You can’t be an absentee father. It doesn’t work, with the commitment you have for a mayor, seven days a week. There’s a disconnect there. I don’t think we can have a part-time mayor.

I guess Bell wants to keep the young people of this community in their rightful place. Isn't that nice of him to be so concerned? By all means, let's wait until our children grow up before we try to accomplish anything. Sheesh.

September 14, 2007

Seeking: An Auto-Body Experience

Crunch!

My neighbor ran into my car while it was parked on the street. Now I'm doomed to entering through the passenger side until this gets fixed.

Does anyone have any recommendations for which body shop to choose, or which to avoid?

September 13, 2007

Call to Artists: 4th Annual Area 61 UFO Convention

Area 61 invites you to submit your UFO/weird science/paranormal art.

Event featuring Lectures, Movies, Art Show, Witness Forum, Live Music, Libations, Vendors, Video Games, Bigfoot, Lake Monsters, Ghost Hunters, Costume Contest, Prizes, Weirdos, Roundtrip Free Transport to/from Carmody's Pub in Duluth.

Hosted by Gonzo Science brothers Jim Richardson & Allen Richardson.

Saturday October 20th
All Day All Night only $5
Lakeview Castle, Northshore Drive, Duluth

Music (all ages): Cloud Cult, Crew Jones, The Keep Aways, More

Entries by Friday October 12 to jill at [email protected]. Please include Artist's Name & Contact Information, Brief Description of piece, Title of piece, Medium, Dimensions, & any Special needs (electricity, large space, etc.) you may have. Thanks!

General Need-To-Knows:

1. No nails allowed in walls. Pieces will be hung or placed on tables for you.

2. Hanging pieces will be hung from cieling with wire/line unless too heavy.

3. Sculptural or heavy pieces must provide their own pedestals/displays, or will be displayed on tables.

4. Artwork must be delivered to the Castle on Friday Oct. 19 or to Jill with prior arrangement. Pick up either Sunday morning, Oct. 21 at the Castle, or from Jill with prior arrangement.

5. UFO Convention and Castle are not responsible for any damages to artwork.

6. No sale of artwork on site, but contact numbers or business cards may be displayed next to piece.

Star Wars Exhibit Coming to St. Paul

landspeeder.jpg

The traveling Star Wars exhibit with props, costumes, and models from all of the movies will be coming to the Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul. The exhibit will be up from June 13 - August 24, 2008 and tickets go on sale this spring. So gear up to geek up!

An injury to one...

They're out there every day - sun, rain, wind, or cold, at the entrances to the UMD campus, fighting to hold the line on a decent standard of living. AFSCME-organized workers at UMD are fighting for a fair wage and fair treatment from the University system administration in the face of callous treatment and a cold shoulder. When the Minnesota state legislature allotted a 3.25 % raise for University system employees, all other job classes were given that or higher, but the lowest-paid Universtiy employees were only offered 2.25%, which won't keep pace with inflation. There's a great article on the details that appeared in the Minneapolis Star Tribune here.

The strikers need messages of support. Their fight is a fight against the continuing erosion of the middle class and the growing gap between the rich and the rest of us. Do you want to live as well as your parents? Want health care? Do you like the idea of a retirement? Weekends? 40-hour work weeks? When the unions were strong and strikes were frequent, most people took these things for granted; now the score is working two or three jobs to make ends meet. But I'm not jealous of unionized workers who won a higher wage through hard struggle; they are my brothers and sisters, and I stand shoulder to shoulder with the strikers because I know that some day I'll be in the same situation and need their solidarity on my side. I'm trying to improve my own standard of living, not by tearing anyone down or trying to get on top of the dogpile, but by helping workers who decide to stand up, and by trying to organize my own co-workers to do the same.

The University and the media (read: DNT) would like everyone to think that these low-paid workers are greedy and unorganized, they have no support in the community, and the strike is having no impact. If you sympathize with folks like Bob Brunicks who make seven-figure incomes and run their business from cushy offices, or if you think it's a good idea to sell UMD workers, your future and your kids' future down the river, go ahead and rant about clerical, technical and health care workers should be thankful for what pittance they have. But if you have an ounce of symphathy for the little guy, at least post some messages of support for our neighbors on the picket line. (They can always use help on the lines or at Strike Headquarters as well. But crossing the picket line, for whatever reason, or asking others to do the same, is NOT supportive).

So, Duluth, which side are you on?

1425954-photo_by_Gregory_Roth-Duluth.jpg


This really has nothing to do with anything but I have to say that I just love this site!!! I log into this thing almost daily and can usually find something entertaining or amusing. All of the banners let people know that we don't just live in some schmuck schmuck town where people just drone about their days. Thanks PDD!!

The Jaunt is Upon Us

MinnesotaPoint2.jpg
ParkPoint2.jpg

As warned in a previous post, Nonchalant Jaunt V is this Saturday, Sept. 15.

For no apparent purpose, a group of grown adults with nothing better to do will walk from one end of Minnesota Point to the other and back, perhaps encountering random adventures along the way, but certainly becoming more self-actualized by the end.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The NorthShore Inline Marathon will also be taking place on Saturday, so don't expect to be able to enter Canal Park by automobile. Park somewhere downtown if you need to drive at all, then walk to the gathering point.

We'll meet at the lighthouse at the end of the pier on the Canal Park side of the canal at 10 a.m. The jaunt will cross the Aerial Lift Bridge, follow the shore to the end of the point, traverse a rocky breakwater and return through the Park Point Nature Trail and probably twist and turn in unpredicatable ways. You'll want to pack a lunch; this could take a few hours.

The only rule: "Don't be a hero." (Unless your the kind of hero that brings Thunder Cookies for everyone.)

September 12, 2007

Operation: Total Freshness

Nice flower.jpg

Mr. Nice's campaign to restore Duluth's dignity continues to gain momentum in spite of the political dog-and-pony show that occurred yesterday. As a part of the Mr. Nice Campaign's environmental freshness pledge, everyone with loser candidate signs in their yard is encouraged to recycle them - by giving them to the Mr. Nice for Mayor Campaign. Rework them yourself, or, email us that you have a sign to donate. But certainly after today, there should be no Gilbert, Bye, Bergson, Socha or Faye signs anywhere in town, unless they have been repainted to say "Mr. Nice for Mayor." Email [email protected] if you have sign/s destined for the garbage we can come get, or that you have stolen for the candidate. Or, repaint a sign yourself and bring it to Washington Studios for the November 3rd art opening/ultimate campaign rally. All DIY signs will be displayed as art and the winner takes home a CASH PRIZE. And never forget, beneath the cobblestones, the beach!
Official campaign site.

No Woolly Willy

The rescheduled Willie Nelson concert at the Big Top has been canceled.

Art Attack!

Come one, come all!

Art Attack: A Subversive Art Event
Thursday, September 20, 2007
DAI Lincoln Center
2229 W. 2nd St.
5-7 pm
FREE
Art Attack is a spontaneous exhibition targeted at the underground and outsider artists of the area. Artists are invited to bring a single piece of art to install or present in or around the Lincoln Center Gallery. All visual and alternative art mediums such as fashion and performance art are encouraged. Musicians and poets are also welcome. There are no restrictions to size or content, we only ask that the property of the DAI is not damaged or defaced in any way. Creative spontaneity is the goal of this event.
A small reception will be provided by the Duluth Art Institute. Artists and event-goers are also welcome to bring potluck food to share. Bring your favorite food art!

Congratulations, Donny!

Donny Mammoths

Donny Kong

Donny Monet

I can't possibly explain to you how much fun this was.

September 11, 2007

Duluth News Tribune Lets Everyone Win!

DNT reports dead even TIE at 22% of voters.

Congratulations Don Ness and Charlie Bell for moving on to the heavyweight bout.

22percent.jpg

Election Results

Here ya go. And for you poligeeks, here is a precinct by precinct breakdown of the vote in PDF format. SUMMARY REPORT UNOFFICAL RESULTS RUN DATE:09/11/07 DULUTH, MN, PRIMARY ELECTION RUN TIME:10:08 PM SEPTEMBER 11, 2007 VOTES PERCENT PRECINCTS COUNTED (OF 36) . . . . . 36 100.00 BALLOTS CAST - TOTAL. . . . . . . 21,471 Mayor CITY OF DULUTH VOTE FOR UP TO 1 CHARLES M. "CHARLIE" BELL . . . . . 6,769 31.58 HERB W. BERGSON . . . . . . . . 3,064 14.29 MEG BYE . . . . . . . . . . . 2,055 9.59 JOANNE M. FAY . . . . . . . . . 746 3.48 GREG GILBERT . . . . . . . . . 2,886 13.46 TODD GREMMELS . . . . . . . . . 14 .07 SUNNY HELBACKA. . . . . . . . . 124 .58 REINER NELSON . . . . . . . . . 160 .75 DON NESS. . . . . . . . . . . 5,224 24.37 JIM PRATT . . . . . . . . . . 224 1.05 JOHN SOCHA . . . . . . . . . . 102 .48 ROBERT WAGNER . . . . . . . . . 67 .31 City Councilor at Large CITY OF DULUTH VOTE FOR UP TO 2 JEFF ANDERSON . . . . . . . . . 5,770 16.35 JACK ARNOLD. . . . . . . . . . 4,526 12.83 HENRY L. BANKS. . . . . . . . . 1,931 5.47 TONY CUNEO . . . . . . . . . . 5,365 15.20 JON DONAHUE. . . . . . . . . . 2,667 7.56 BECKY HALL . . . . . . . . . . 8,371 23.72 TIM LITTLE . . . . . . . . . . 5,942 16.84 TONY SALLS . . . . . . . . . . 714 2.02 City Councilor 3RD DISTRICT VOTE FOR UP TO 1 SHARLA GARDNER. . . . . . . . . 1,549 51.48 HEATHER RAND . . . . . . . . . 970 32.24 JOHN RATHE . . . . . . . . . . 490 16.28 City Councilor 5TH DISTRICT VOTE FOR UP TO 1 ALLAN BEAULIER. . . . . . . . . 566 13.60 JAY FOSLE . . . . . . . . . . 1,656 39.80 RUSSELL W. STOVER. . . . . . . . 1,707 41.02 WILLIAM MAX UNGER. . . . . . . . 232 5.58

going to Minneapolis this Friday?

looking to hitch a ride this friday the 14th to minneapolis. will share gas costs. call hattie @ 218 340 8457

DOS 5 : it's dos with a prettier face, yo kick it!


It's Time!

votent.jpg

I just want to encourage everyone, even Carla, to get out and vote today. We usually have a lower turnout for city primaries, hopefully this heated mayoral race raises it up a bit.

I would especially like to remind all the Ness supporters on the board to make sure you get out and vote. While Don may be one of the leading candidates, there is no guarantee he's going to make it through today. He really needs every single vote today in order to make it to November. So if you know anyone who is supporting Don but just figures they'll wait until November to vote for him, drag them to the polls. If you don't know where to vote here's a link

September 10, 2007

Mayoral Endorsement

Ballot2.JPG

With the primary upon us, many of you must be wondering who to vote for. "What would Paul Lundgren do?" you will no doubt ask.

That's why, after careful study of all the candidates, I'm announcing my endorsement and putting up my yard sign.

Endorsement.JPG

Starving Artist - Got Instruments?

Now that Craigslist is total crap I am resorting to posting to PDD. This is a porch sale. Please call or email for purchase or more information. I am a local musician and a collector of fine instruments.
instruments_sm.jpg

Call on Rob
email 218.310.1891

Banjo $100, Violin $300, wii + games (SOLD), Recorder Trio (sopr,alto,tenor) (SOLD), Travel Guitar (SOLD)

Thanks PDD!

Click for more info

Banjo - Unbranded, Wood and Steel construction, works well, steel reinforced neck. Case, tuning wrenches. Comes with 2 beginner Banjo books.
$100

Violin - Scott Cao from Campbell, CA. Great hard case with nice bow, chin grip, rosin, microtuners on every string, good strings. Comes with 2 books: Improvising violin & country violin method. This is a great violin and I fret to give this up. Please find it a good home.
$300

Original Song or Arrangement - I will write you a song, just give me the level of play, instrumentation, genre and a loose thought of content. It will probably only take a few days. I could also do arrangements of other songs. I am a studied composer with a degree in Music Theory and Composition. At least that is what that piece of paper from UMD says.
$100

Thanks to the wonderful PDD'ers that have helped me out.

I love the PDD and I love Duluth, but if I can't find a job or can't pay my rent I can't live here. Do you need a computer programmer? my site.


September 09, 2007

Hugo

Hugo Awards are out.

Non reading type notables: Pan’s Labyrinth and Doctor Who.

September 08, 2007

Mayoral Question #1

gahjacket.jpgWho's your favorite superhero and why?

Starfire retracted his post inviting mayoral candidates to post on the blog, but I think it's a great idea. So I'll throw out the first question. And no cheating! No saying, "my mom" or "Mrs. Crandle, my 6th grade teacher." I mean, you can say that, but you get the shark tank then.

So how is it?

hellskitch.jpg

Madeleine L'Engle, 1918-2007

Madeleine.jpg

September 07, 2007

OMFG!

This is the most amazing story I have heard in a while. Via the DNT.

'The only guy running nude in Duluth': Observation Hill couple recounts how they thwarted burglar
Mark Stodghill
Duluth News Tribune - 09/07/2007

Wayne and Kathie Boniface returned from a dinner at an Observation Hill neighbor’s home Thursday night to find a burglar in their house.

Kathie Boniface asked the burglar who he was? “I’m with the FBI and you are blowing my cover,’’ the burglar said.

When Wayne Boniface got done with the intruder, he had no cover.

The suspect ran from the home carrying less than he came with. A lot less.

Read full story here.

Alworth Institute's Fall Programs

Dear PDD,

This is a shameless plug for our programs at the Alworth Institute, which aims to engage the community in discussion of international issues by bringing the experts to you. Below is a listing of our Fall International Lecture & Brown Bag Series. Click on the previous hyperlinks for more info about the events & speakers, as well as a listing of our spring program.

Fall 2007 International Lecture Series (at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted):

Wednesday , September 26  Dr. Marina Ottaway, Middle East Program Director, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace “The Changing Balance of Power in the Middle East: The Impact of the War in Iraq”  Chemistry 200, UMD

Wednesday, October 10  Leenco Lata “Horn of Africa”  UMD Library Rotunda

Monday, October 22  Dr. Adrian Leftwich , Politics Department, University of York (UK) “Governments and Poverty” UMD Library Rotunda

Wednesday, November 14 – Scott Laderman “Tourism and Memory in Vietnam”  UMD Library Rotunda

Friday, November 30  St. Andrew’s Night Diner at the Alworth  Dr. William Henderson “Glasgow: From Medieval to Post-Modern City”.

Fall 2007 International Brown Bag Series (Thursdays at 12 p.m.):

September 20 “ Argentina & Uruguay: Twenty-Some Years After a Return to Democracy”  Eileen Zeitz  UMD Library Rotunda

September 27th “History and Significance of Sacred Sights in Ireland” - Pauline Nuhring Continuing Education - UMD Library Rotunda

October 4 "Pedagogy and Research in Study in England - One Faculty Member’s Story”  Paula J. Pedersen  UMD Library Rotunda

October 11 “ Impact of Water Diversion on Women & Men in Central Kenya: Stories and Pictures From the Field" Njoki Kamau, Women Studies Department Head  Co-sponsored by UMD's Commission on Women – UMD Library Rotunda

October 18 – “Eldur og Is – Fire and Ice : Geology and Culture of Iceland”  Dr. Howard Mooers  UMD Library Rotunda

November 1st “ Edinburgh in the Age of Enlightenment” Dr. William Henderson, Alworth Institute Director UMD Library Rotunda

November 8  “Sewing Seeds of Resistance: Colombia Flower Unions, US Policy and the Struggle for Dignity” Lydia Lopez  UMD Library Rotunda Co-sponsored by the Hispanic/Latino/Chicana/ Learning Resourse Center

November 15  " China Perspective: UMD’s Study Chinese Language in China Program”  Dr. Zhuangyi Liu  UMD Library Rotunda

December 6  “More than a Famous Battle: Archaeological Investigations at the Ancient Town of Plataiai, Greece”  Dr. Ron Marchese  The Rafters, UMD

September 06, 2007

Mr.Nice on Parade

rtn_hand_puppet.jpg

The street scene at Lake and Superior... Don't forget to vote... and go see some live music this weekend... Ness for Mayor!! (oh... i mean... Mr.Nice for mayor...)

Wild and Windy Wilco

Who else was at Wilco on Tuesday? I officially retract the statements I made here. The Bayfront show was one of the best rock shows I've ever seen. The band seemed to be having a blast, the crowd was happy and enthusiastic, the wind was pure Duluth, the fog was dreamy and strange, and the music was simply incredible.

At one point during an extended Nels Cline riff, a ship was leaving the bay, passing under the bridge in the eeriest of light and mist. Jeff Tweedy looked over, mouth slightly agape, and raised his arm toward the ship. He looked out over the audience, then back to the ship, clearly in awe of his surroundings. Then he joined back in the song.

What were your impressions? Do you have photos to share? Please share!

Ness Concert Series - Featuing Trampled by Turtles, Black-eyed Snakes, and other great local bands!

Ness for Mayor Concert Series

Dave S.jpg

My campaign is hosting a few shows tonight and tomorrow to raise the awareness of the upcoming primary on September 11. I hope to see you there.


Thursday Sept. 6th, 2007

Pizza Lucé | 10:30pm ($5)
Taconite + Trampled by Turtles + Too Many Banjos

Carmody Irish Pub | 10pm
Batteries + Acceleratti

Brewhouse | 10pm
Los Besos

Keep reading for the Friday show schedule which includes the Black-eyed Snakes...


Friday Sept. 7th, 2007

Pizza Lucé | 11pm ($5)
Black-eyed Snakes + The Keep Aways

Carmody Irish Pub | 10pm
Biochemical Characters + The Serfs

Brewhouse | 10pm
Teague Alexy + Billy Johnson

September 05, 2007

Mr. Nice For Mayor Rally Thursday September 6

4:20 pm at Lake Avenue and Superior Street. Come listen to this inspiring speaker. All citizen media and counterdemonstrators welcome. Thank you!

September 04, 2007

.

nm02.jpg

see some more...via eyeteethl

and the artist's website...

(Also) Brilliant!

The Duluth Journal (best idea ever): Let's ask the candidates who's going to win.

September 03, 2007

Duluth Heights is Nice

mr nice (1) smaller.jpg

Based on my count of lawn signs, Duluth Heights is tilting heavily towards Mr. Nice.

September 02, 2007

The Hillsider Questionnaire

The Hillsider's running The Hillsider Questionnaire. Gilbert, Ness, Bye, Bell and Nelson so far.

September 01, 2007

The Lion Sleeps Tonight

LionSleeps.JPG

DrinkForEffect.JPG

John’s Red Lion Bar is now closed after over 35 years in business.

Info for history buffs:

The two-story brick building was designed by William A. Hunt and built in 1910 to house the Albert Salter Saloon. It has served primarily as a bar throughout its existence. Before it was the Red Lion, it was briefly the Diamond Lounge. From the early 1950s to late ’60s it was the Two-Twenty Lounge (because it was at 220 E. Superior St., get it?).

RedLion1.JPG

RedLion2.JPG RedLion4.JPG BenMarsen.JPG

PsychoCapone.jpg BlackLabels.JPG

Lumpytender.JPG Lefty.JPG

RedLionLion.JPG DickRosvall.JPG TomSellak.JPG

Hung.JPG AdamGuggemos.JPG AllenRichardson.JPG

TrishDeLude.JPG FreddieHug.JPG Muerte.JPG