Hex Message

Some Pictures from Our Trip to D.C. & NYC

2012-01-25T01:08:00.000-08:00

•

1/20 into 21/12, Snowing at the Shady Grove Metro

•

1/21/12, Sleeping on the Amtrak to Penn Station

From: Gregor Samsa
No worries. Just call when you're downstairs. I'll come down.
Jan. 21, 2012 6:57 PM

•

1/22/12, Future Shuttle at The Stone

From: K. Kid
Night babe! Have fun at your show!
Jan. 22, 2012 9:38 PM

•

1/23/12, The J Train to Hewes St.

•

1/23 into 24/12 , The Subway home after dinner at Mr. Kazim's

From: Mr. Kazim
Dairy ok for both of Jew?
Jan. 23, 2012 10:00 AM

To: Mr. Kazim
Oh yes. Not going vegan until next year.
Jan. 23, 2012 10:00 AM

Return to Tastee Diner

2012-01-25T00:46:00.000-08:00

1/20/12

Still at Sea-Tac

2012-01-23T06:11:00.000-08:00

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
K. says yep, take lots of xxxxxxx b4. Good luck.
Jan. 19, 2012 5:52 AM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Train stuck on tracks. Hoo boy.
Jan. 19, 2012 9:04 AM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Airport madness. Delayed. Xncled. Not xncled. Ice.
Perry out, btw. Endorses Gingrich.
Jan. 19, 2012 9:04 AM

From: Kevin Durant
To: Karate Kid
I heard about the hummus. It is not a gel! Ps Alaska website still acting like flight will leave.
Jan. 19, 2012 9:50 AM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Appt canceled. I took all that Xxxil for nothing. If I don't hear from you, I'll assume your flight took off.
Jan. 19, 2012 11:26 AM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Ur hearing from me. Oy.
Jan. 19, 2012 11:26 AM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Oy vey. Canceled or waiting? Apparently they've reopened one runway.
Jan. 19, 2012 11:26 AM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Canceled, but booked on next flight. We'll see.
Jan. 19, 2012 11:26 AM

Sea-Tac Airport, 1/19/12

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Xxxxxxx for same sex marriage. Should I post? Also, Bart sent me a funny bill xxxx xxxx xxxx xxxx.
Jan. 19, 2012 11:26 AM

From: Golly Gosh
To: K. Kid
Oh gosh! Good to hear you're getting out later today. Are you doing okay? I know all this flight stuff can be trech! And you don't have your hummus!
Jan. 19, 2012 11:40 AM

From: Valium
Not going anywhere! You able to fly today?
Jan. 19, 2012 11:59 AM

To: Valium
Had an 840 flight. Still at seatac now, tho.
Jan. 19, 2012 11:59 AM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Xxxxxx isn't a big deal, but sure.
Already assured in house, and he never votes w his party.
He's in the house, ya know. ; ) I'm assuming ur in and Bart's at home.
Jan. 19, 2012 12:10 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Yep. He's the one who's running for xxxxxxxx, right?
And yes. The bus is xxxxx xxxxxx.
Jan. 19, 2012 12:10 PM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
burn on me. I have no idea what he's up to next. Basically, he's XX McKxx. Just ran into XXx Xxxon.
Jan. 19, 2012 12:10 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Running for xx xxx. And wow, random. Ice has stopped here.
Jan. 19, 2012 12:10 PM

From: Valium
Ugh---good luck...
Jan. 19, 2012 12:18 PM

To: Valium
We're heading to the bar next.
Jan. 19, 2012 12:18 PM

To: Kevin Durant & Golly Gosh
From: K. Kid
Canceled, then not canceled, then delayed, then canceled again for good. Rebooked on a flight that leaves at 2...probably.
Jan. 19, 2012 1:00 PM

From: Kevin Durant
To: K. Kid
Now I'm extra mad they took your hummus.
Jan. 19, 2012 1:11 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Still Stranded?
Kxxx wants me on tomorrow.
Jan. 19, 2012 2:02 PM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
A blast here at Sea-Tac.
Jan. 19, 2012 2:02 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Ha. Crazy snow again and flickering lights here. Appt rescheduled for xxx. Slow day but at least enough for a post on xxx xxx xxxx and fizz.
Jan. 19, 2012 2:30 PM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Flickering lights sounds fun. Cool on fizz.
Jan. 19, 2012 2:30 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Four items so far! Including xxxxx hilarious xxxx bill.
Jan. 19, 2012 2:30 PM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
That bill was on front page of xxxs on sun, I think. The xxxx xxxx one? Check prev cov.
Jan. 19, 2012 2:30 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Shit. Will do.
Jan. 19, 2012 2:30 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Just talked to half the xxl. Tons of upcoming stuff. Trying to wrap my head around it all.
Jan. 19, 2012 3:36 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Did you ever get off the ground?
Jan. 20, 2012 12:58 AM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
11.5 hours at seatac. 1am now. Metro closed. In a cab on way to folks.
Jan. 20, 2012 12:58 AM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Congrats on getting there, at least!
Jan. 20, 2012 12:58 AM

Bill Russell

2012-01-22T20:12:00.000-08:00

1/17/12, 7:50 PM

•••

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Oh. Suddenly pouring snow now.
Jan. 15, 2012 11:33 AM

From: Political Genius
Still on for 6:30?
Jan. 15, 2012 3:39 PM

To: Political Genius
Yeah. Can ya come by around 615 and we'll head down to Columbia City? Lottie's or something.
Jan. 15, 2012 4:58 PM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Got stuck. Will be 15 late.
Jan. 15, 2012 6:29 PM

To: Bill Clinton
Any one (you?) going down for xxxx lobby day tomorrow
Jan. 15, 2012 8:31 PM

From: Bill Clinton
I am!
Jan. 15, 2012 9:55 PM

To: Bill Clinton
Awesome. Time?
Jan. 15, 2012 9:55 PM

From: Bill Clinton
8, but complicated, should not have xxxxxxl see me giving you ride, but I bet we can make it work.
Jan. 15, 2011 9:55 PM

•••

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Ur on the email.
Jan. 16, 2o12, 12:37 PM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Well, then, it'd be better coupled w an example of a long fight in history. Just saying: we're gonna win has always fallen flat. It's def my "most overrated" King quote. It's basically just stocking ur tongue out at the bad guys.
Sticking.
Jan. 16, 2012 3:01 PM

From: Karate Kid
Headed home. Let me know how your eve plays out.
Jan. 16, 2012 4:52 PM

To: C4
Ok, I'll wait by leg bldg on temple of justice side. By the turn around there. Text me when ur on ur way.
Jan. 16, 2012 5:34 PM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Remembered my fizz Microsoft tax exemption.
Jan. 16, 2012 5:55 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Cool. Putting a note in there.
Jan. 16, 2012 5:55 PM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
You r Bill Russell.
Jan. 16, 2012 5:55 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Aww, that's the nicest thing you've ever said to me! :)
Jan. 16, 2012 5:55 PM

From: C4
Just get there by 7
ignore
Jan. 16, 2012 6:16 PM

To: C4
K. Was about to kill u.
Jan. 16, 2012 6:16 PM

From: C4
Almost there
Jan. 16, 2012 6:16 PM

To: C4
Cool.
Jan. 16, 2012 6:16 PM

From: C4
Here
Jan. 16, 2012 6:16 PM

From: Valium
Hey--the reading's over & I'm up on the hill, but I don't think I'm going to tempt the ice gods. Heading home while I can--sorry! Hope you make it back from Oly ok...
Jan. 16, 2012 8:18 PM

To: Valium
Ha. Wise decision. Still here. Wed?
Jan. 16, 2012 8:40 PM

•••

From: Bart Simpson
Given how unreliable the buses were yesterday when there wasn't snow, and given that it's supposed to start Snowing midday today, I'd like to work from the xxxxx xxxk office.
Jan. 17, 2012 8:32 AM

To: Bart Simpson
Ha. That's cool. Tho I think the big snow is tomorrow. Meanwhile, u xxx x should xxxxxxxx so i can xxxx xxxxxx xxxxx xxxx xxxx xxx xx.
Jan. 17, 2012 8:32 AM

From: Bart Simpson
Saving for tomorrow?
Jan. 17, 2012 5:51 PM

To: Bart Simpson
Sorry. Just remembered. Swamped w xxxx. Will hit momentarily.
Jan. 17, 2012 5:51 PM

•••

To: K. Kid
Bus pulled right up.
Jan. 18, 2012 8:07 AM

From: K. Kid
Nice!
Jan. 18, 2012 8:07 AM

To: K. Kid
Oy. May have spoken too soon. Issues on Denny. Unclear what bus is up to as it attempts to pull out.
Jan. 18, 2012 8:07 AM

From: K. Kid
Hmm
Jan. 18, 2012 8:07 AM

From: Political Genius
U should check w Xxxxxxx's asst whether mtg is still on for today.
My two other mtgs have been rescheduled
Jan. 18, 2012 8:07 AM

From: K. Kid
traffic cams look like it's slow on 1st to Wall st., and on denny up to broad. hopefully once you turn onto 3rd youll be golden
Jan. 18, 2012 8:22 AM

To: K. Kid
That's exactly what happened.
Jan. 18, 2012 8:22 AM

From: K. Kid
coolio. hope it's that smoth-ish tomorrow am
Jan. 18, 2012 8:22 AM

To: Political Genius
Xncled.
Jan. 18, 2012 8:56 AM

From: Political Genius
Ok. Any idea when we can resked?
Jan. 18, 2012 8:56 AM

To: Political Genius
Said she'd contact me ASAP about resched. Ha. Actually xxxxxxed. We xxxxx quite xxxxxxx. Remind me to tell u about the nightmare I had last night featuring u, me, Xxx, and ... Our xxxxx xxxxx!
Jan. 18, 2012 9:15 AM

From: Political Genius
Yeah a little more time is good. Xxxx xxxx nightmares - makes me shudder to think of it.
Jan. 18, 2012 9:15 AM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
I have a q about 1 of ur Fizz items.
Jan 18, 2012 7:56 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Yes?
Jan. 18, 2012 7:56 PM

Record Collection #19: Their Satanic Majesties Request

2012-01-15T12:57:00.000-08:00

1/14/12

The Rolling Stones, Their Satanic Majesties Request, December 1967

Basketball Diaries #158

2012-01-15T12:03:00.000-08:00

I went 2-3 on Saturday with my new orange Air Max Nikes. This is a lot better than it sounds.

The two wins came at the end of the day—two in a row—which I take as a sign that I'm getting my looks back.

I wasn't playing too badly in the losses (I sank a floater in the key early in the first game), but I also wasn't creating anything. And I probably fumbled a couple of plays along the way to the losses.

The first two losses were close, but we got blown out by the reigning team 9-2 in the third one.

But in the come-on wins at the end of the day—with Big O. and my doppelganger on my squad (as they had been all morning), plus V.—I started playing with some confidence: kicking out some assists (a particularly good one on a fast break with V. and hitting Big O. cutting), while getting some offensive rebounds, and hitting the put backs mid-air. And I was finally taking it to the hoop and getting fouled.

Big V. gave me a lift home and K. Kid was there because she got keys made on Saturday morning. It's even better than having Uncle Marvy waiting there for me.

Or Even Better

2012-01-15T11:27:00.000-08:00

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Helloooo? Trying to figure out what plan is.
Jan. 14, 2012 2:02 PM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Good substitute for sorrel is?
Jan. 14, 2012 4:12 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Haha. Spinach or, even better, watercress and add some lemon.

We had another Yotam Ottolenghi dinner. I made chard, pine nut, and kashkaval cakes w/ a yogurt, watercress, and garlic sauce for K. Kid ... with a little help from K. Kid herself. She translated the grams into ounces & cups, and she saved the browned pine nuts.

We drank wine, played scrabble (I won?), and had the iTunes playing—a Duke Ellington mix, a Blondie mix, and then K. Kid commandeered the 1964 mix with Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell youtube videos.

Friday Afternoon

2012-01-15T11:21:00.000-08:00

To: Bill Clinton
Don't give brxxxxx xxxxxne story. Hitting it.
Oh. Meeting w Xxxxxxx.
Thanks.
Jan. 13, 2012 2:01 PM

From: Bill Clinton
Great
Also, why is XXB pushing legislation that expands b and O to new businesses? ? ?
Jan 13, 2012 2:26 PM

From: 10 Tribes
Quick?
Jan. 13, 2012 6:42 PM

To: Bill Clinton
Ha. House sponsor is 10. He just called. Spinning.
Jan 13, 2012 6:56 PM

From: Bill Clinton
at dinner, what's up?
will call later
Jan. 13, 2012 6:56 PM

I'm in the Snack Bar

2012-01-12T19:30:00.000-08:00

From: Political Genius
Checked calendar - 23rd is a Monday. Are u in town on Tues the 24th? Was going to suggest lunch that day to Xxxxxxx.
Jan. 11, 2012 9:29 PM

To: Political Genius
I had it wrong. Get back Tues nite, 24th. So: 2xth best. sorry for confusion.
Jan. 11, 2012 9:51 PM

•••

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Great Fizz.
Jan. 12, 2012 6:58 AM

From: Karate Kid
Your glasses. Going to be ok?
Jan. 12, 2012 7:01 AM

To: Karate Kid
I guess I won't be able to find Mr. Opinion.
Jan. 12, 2012 7:01 AM

Rainier Beach Light Rail Stop, 7:45 AM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Megawatt Hours has a good analysis of barrel fee. Xxx-xxxx. Def call her. Gov bill in senate transpo cmttee today.
Jan. 12, 2012 8:25 AM

To: Couch
Martian Bracelets here. Any announcement on xxxx bond?
Jan. 12, 2012 9:02 AM

From: Lloyd Price's Sister
When it rains it pours: Xxxx's X0x4 pulled to floor calendar in House.
Jan. 12, 2012 10:06 AM

To: Lloyd Price's Sister
And which one is that?
Jan. 12, 2012 10:06 AM

From: Lloyd Price's Sister
Xxx opt out.
Jan. 12, 2012 10:06 AM

To: Lloyd Price's Sister
Ah. I'm in snack bar.
Jan. 12, 2012 10:06 AM

From: Lloyd Price's Sister
I'm banging my head against a wall and thinking of having a drink - at the house, thankfully.
Jan. 12, 2012 10:06 AM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
330. Just sent u hilarious email from Grover Norquist to leg re bag ban.
Jan. 12, 2012 10:26 AM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Can I go in and edit. Who's Xxxxx, for example?
Jan. 12, 2012 11:36 AM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Whoops. Yes.
Jan. 12, 2012 11:36 AM

From: Couch
No, sorry
Jan. 12, 2012 12:23 PM

To: Couch
No prob. Better that way. Busy! What happened tho?
Jan. 12, 2012 12:23 PM

To: Political Genius
Thanks. Got something up. Not great quotes, which was my bland questions as much as her bland answers.
Jan. 11, 2012 1:21 PM

From: Political Genius
Cool
Xxxx says xxth is fine - lunch.
Jan. 12, 2012 1:21 PM

To: Political Genius
Cool. Let's confab.
Jan. 12, 2012 1:30 PM

From: Valium
Which Shabazz Palaces record should I get?
Jan. 12, 2012 2:42 PM

To: Valium
I love this question. There is a long answer. The short answer is Black Up.
Jan. 12, 2012 3:11 PM

To: Maoist
Aww Hell. Think I left tape recorder in ur car. Back seat. Or floor in front.
Jan. 12, 2012 3:28 PM

From: Maoist
I just looked for it and didn't see it.
Jan. 12, 2012 4:20 PM

To: Maoist
Yikes. Thanks.
Ha. Found it.
Jan. 12, 2012 4:20 PM

From: Maoist
Good!
Jan. 12, 2012 4:20 PM

From: Valium
Love to hear the long answer, but the short one's what I need now--thanks!
Jan. 12, 2012 5:06 PM

You Might Be Interested

2012-01-12T18:55:00.000-08:00

From: Techno
Also you might be interested in SB X5xX, guts the Xmx by eliminating standing for folks like xxxxxxx to file appeals
Jan. 11, 2012 5:22 PM

To: Techno
Thanks. How does it do that?
Jan. 11, 2012 5:22 PM

From: Techno
Deletes the line in XmX allowing appeals to be filed by parties that commented during the xxxxxxxx of xxx plan
Jan. 11, 2012 5:22 PM

To: Techno
Wow. So, who the heck COULD file appeals? Wouldn't that hurt legit community groups on both sides of an issue, not just lefty xxxxxxxxx?
Jan. 11, 2012 5:22 PM

From: Techno
Yeah. Lloyd's Sister can tell you all about it.
Jan. 11, 2012 5:22 PM

To: Techno
Just did.
Jan. 11, 2012 5:48 PM

Watching from the Galleries

2012-01-11T21:55:00.000-08:00

From: Lloyd Price's Sister
you can say that likely to be package of fees (not taxes) and entirely focused on operations and maintenance. Sadly that's probably already more than I'm supposed to say before xxx announcement.
Jan. 10, 2012 8:06 AM

To: Lloyd Price's Sister
U rock. Headed down now. Where'll u be at?
Jan. 10, 2012 8:18 AM

From: Lloyd Price's Sister
I'll probably be watching xxxxx of xxxxx from galleries.
Jan. 10, 2012 8:18 AM

Basketball Diaries #157

2012-01-10T22:59:00.000-08:00

I'm done with these shoes, 1/7/12

I was getting the ball on quick cuts to the hoop—and occasionally taking it to the hoop myself. But I was bobbling the passes or missing the shot every time. This was at the inaugural game at our new gym in Wedgwood.

The one time I scored on a drive (during the fourth or fifth game), V. said, "About time."

I agree. About god damn time. I'm playing lousy.

I tried to buy new shoes on Friday after work walking home up Pike with Johnny Rotten, but Sneaker City was closed. I managed to buy some new shoes on Saturday afternoon—after the game—at the used clothing store on Broadway.

Later that night, after getting some work done at my apt. with Johnny Rotten, I walked over to K. Kid's friends' apt. where we made vegan pizzas, listened to Elton John's Greatest Hits, John Lennon & Yoko Ono's Double Fantasy, the Kinks' Village Green Preservation Society, and Queen's A Night at the Opera (all on vinyl) and drank wine and played Pictionary.

We were over there the night before too for dinner and wine and more vinyl LPs—Elvis Costello's My Aim is True, Billy Joel's the Stranger, and Meatloaf's Bat Out of Hell.

All of Them Witches: This Jew Star Jam

2012-01-10T20:41:00.000-08:00

Sunday night, 1/8/12. I give myself a Bananagram challenge at K. Kid's apt while I'm talking to my mom on the phone about visiting DC.

The First 10 Days of the Year

2012-01-10T20:40:00.000-08:00

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
My back is fucked! And leg. Collided w big dude. Any way u can come to my pad? I'm kinda incapacitated.
Jan. 1, 2012 1:32 PM

•••

From: K. Kid
Home
Jan. 2, 2012 5:16 PM

•••

To: K. Kid
U win my Iowa caucus.
Jan. 3, 2012 6:52 PM

•••

To: Bart Simpson
O fuck. Took call and spaced. Newsy or ok to run tomorrow?
Jan. 4, 2012 8:00 PM

•••

To: Political Genius
10 Tribes doesn't know full sitch on xxx deadline. Like to keep xxx xx xxx xxx on that.
Jan. 5, 2012 6:45 PM

From: Political Genius
Ok
Jan. 5, 2012 6:45 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
She hated the exorcist. That's the one I was trying to remember.
Jan 5, 2012 6:55 PM

•••

To: 10
Johnny Rotten Shoes and I were just saying how savvy u were this morning in that serendipitous Mxxxx moment. U were great, 10. Thanks. And thanks for all the great xxxxx. We've divvied up the work and are hitting it.
Jan 6, 2012 3:33 PM

From: K. Kid
Leavin work and headed to xxx and xxxxxx's. Come over when you're free! xox.
Jan. 6, 2012 5:03 PM

To: K. Kid
On way.
Jan. 6, 2012 6:24 PM

From: K. Kid
If you stop by your house will you grab pictionary?
Jan. 6, 2012 6:24 PM

To: K. Kid
Didn't. Here. Address?
Jan. 6, 2012 6:56 PM

•••

To: K. Kid
Basic recap: I need new shoes. Back. Hmmm. A little tight, but okay. I love you. Spotify on African channel. Have fun on Whidbey.
Jan. 7, 2012 1:58 PM

From: K. Kid
Glad back is ok! On ferry heading back- will then be at b &k's. Come over when you're done!
Jan. 7, 2012 5:01 PM

To: K. Kid
Lemme know when you're there.
Jan. 7, 2012 6:54 PM

From: K. Kid
Here!
Jan. 7, 2012 6:54 PM

•••

From: K. Kid
Got a coconut for us to split open when you're over next. also should have shattered glass movie at home!
Jan. 8, 2012 3:49 PM

To: K. Kid
V cool. Johnny Rotten Shoes bailed. Ok if I come over in a few hours to work there?
Jan. 8, 2012 4:11 PM

•••
From: Spokane
Be there at 8:45 or leave here at 8:45? Beacon hill would work.
Jan. 9, 2012 6:01 PM

To: Spokane
Leave here.
Jan. 9, 2012 6:01 PM

To: Shaun Cassidy
Do you still have Jan 9, 1996 NYT?
Jan 9, 2012 7:03 PM

From: Shaun Cassidy
Yikes dont think so
Jan 9, 2012 7:03 PM

To: Shaun Cassidy
Oh well. It's online.
Jan 9, 2012 7:03 PM

•••

To: Political Genius
Xxx wrote back. Excited to meet. Trying to find a date that works. Xxxxx too. The Xxth. Meanwhile landed some xxx xxs, including xxxxxxxx.
Jan. 10, 2012 9:12 AM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Me too. Agggggh. Stress.
Jan 10, 2012, 6:27 PM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Plus Opinion made fun of my jacket. Said I should shop at Bxxch Bxxm.
Jan 10, 2012 6:27 PM

Record Collection #18: My Aim is True

2012-01-05T19:55:00.001-08:00

1/5/12

Elvis Costello, My Aim is True, 1977

plus a little Trust—

Elvis Costello, Trust, 1981

And Now We're Gonna Turn into a String Quartet. Go to Sleep & Enjoy the Show.

2012-01-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

I was tagged on FaceBook on Monday because I'm in this long lost 1991 documentary about the Diary of Anne Frank String Quartet.

Anne & I (1989) this version recorded in 1992

Lisa Learns Her Lesson (1989), this version recorded in 1990

Wallpaper (1988), this version recorded in 1992

Wash Cloth (1989), this version recorded in 1992

Monday After Work

2012-01-03T20:04:00.000-08:00

From: Karate Kid
Home
Jan 2, 2012 5:15 PM

It's Only January. It's Still 2011

2012-01-03T20:02:00.000-08:00

To: Boston Biz Skool
All images are missing again.
Jan. 1, 2012 5:20 PM

New Year's Day

2012-01-03T20:01:00.000-08:00

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
I can be there by 3 if that works for you. Compiling list of primary sources/making blackeyed peas.
Jan. 1, 2012 1:32 PM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Ha. Just had brunch at Flora and they were pushing the black eyed peas.
Jan. 1, 2012 1:32 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Almost there. Terrible bus schedule today.
Jan. 1, 2012 3:54 PM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Wasn't expecting u until 5 to be honest.
Jan. 1, 2012 3:54 PM

2011 in Review: Books

2012-01-01T23:03:00.000-08:00

I didn't read a lot of books in 2011—there was just too much news to read. (The 20Teens started in Wisconsin in February.) But two books I did read this year turned out to be two of my favorite books of all time, one non-fiction and one fiction.

The non-fiction book was a book I actually started in 2010, but I lost it on the bus.
(I couldn't find another copy of it in the store—I'd always check because I couldn't stop thinking about it). So, I finally ordered a copy from Amazon: All Hopped Up & Ready to Go: Music from the Streets of New York 1927-77 by Tony Fletcher

The fiction book was a 1959 British teen cult novel called Absolute Beginners by Colin MacInnes.

There are already a lot of posts here about All Hopped Up & Ready To Go—just search "Doo-wop" or "Afro Cubans" or "Mercer Arts Center," but to recap: Fletcher chronicles New York's music scenes, staring in Cotton Club-Savoy Ballroom-era-Harlem when Duke Ellington's orchestra jazz is already in full swing. And then—effortlessly following the overlapping players and politics and clubs and labels—he takes us into mambo, bebop, left-wing folk, doo-wop, Brill Building pop, blue-eyed soul, the Velvets, glam, punk, disco, and hip-hop.

It's worth noting that the disco chapter—which I read twice—ends before Studio 54 opens; and the punk chapter ends in 1977 just as the CBGBs bands are getting signed. This is not pretentious. It's Fletcher's practical way of adhering to the exciting details—the first rehearsals, the small labels, the early gigs that generate a buzz and create a movement.

Without following these movements to their mainstream finales, Fletcher is able to tell a story about a city and its people rather than a story about the fame and fortune that the city exports.

As for Absolute Beginners (which I shoplifted in a post here)—pure dynamite. It's a bit like The Catcher in the Rye, though it's consciously political with a Socialist and civil rights agenda.

And rather than being an Existential misfit, the teen narrator, a freelance photographer, is a fashionable hipster—romantic and breathless, certainly—but also witty and cooled down with teenage alienation.

It's as if Paul Weller's electric guitar singles (or Blondie's new wave keyboard rave ups ) were done as stage readings in Greenwich Village in the 1950s. There's also a dash of Goddard's pinball machine & anti-war Paris and Burgess' Clockwork Orange future.

The book also comes with the best take down of Marxism ever (from a lefty perspective).

Listen to this:

But I saw I was breaking one of my golden, rules, which is not to argue with Marxist kiddies, because they know. And not only do they know, they're not responsible — which is the exact opposite of what they think they are. I mean, this is the thing, if I dig it correctly. You're in history, yes, because you're budding here and now, but you're outside it, also, because you're living in the Marxist future. And so, when you look around, and see a hundred horrors ... you're not responsible for them, because you're beyond them already, in the kingdom of K. Marx. But for me, I must say, all the horrors I see around me, especially the English ones, I feel responsible for, the lot, just as much as for the few nice things I dig.

The other notable book I read in 2011 was Scorpions: The Battles and Triumphs of FDR's Great Supreme Court Justices by Noah Feldman. It was a reader friendly survey of giant cases and personalities of the mid-20th Century.

And reading Stephen King's The Shining was fun.

My 2011 Best of Movies and Music posts are here—along with previous years' Best Ofs.

Baketball Diaries #156

2012-01-01T22:06:00.000-08:00

V. was keeping the stats as usual. But weird, he only had my team holding court for the first three games. We were convinced we'd won four straight games. My team was Anthony, me, Eric, Aaron, and Jesse—a troupe of small guys—with Eric, slightly taller than the rest of us, banging down low.

Either way—3-1 or 4-1 starting off the day—it was good to close the year with some wins. My teams have been bombing lately. And I've been bombing too. I was still lacking confidence (I wasn't driving or even handling the ball much, I had some dumb turnovers, and I lost my temper once too, thinking English took two steps ...Valium had to talk me down), but I played okay. Or at least I wasn't royally screwing up as much; except when I halted on a break away after a steal—thinking someone was calling a foul. I did have one wow-whee assist, though: a casual alley-oop to Anthony, tossing it to him from the left side as I was bringing the ball up. And I was aggressive, and I think pretty effective, on defense.

But, mostly, I wasn't touching the ball on offense; mainly, I got a good work out heading into New Year's Eve. And my team (a different crew by the end of the day) won the final marathon game up to 21. I had one sweet bank shot in that game, getting open off a screen. Funny. I dribbled down on the very next play, hovered around the key, and decided to fire it up again. I missed.

I threw my back out at the end of the day (or, it seized up on me; that would be the more accurate way to say it), and I suffered a monster Charlie Horse after setting a screen on one of the big guys.

I came home and took a long hot shower listening to Marv Goldberg's Rhythm & Blues Party. Marvy featured one band this time (the Rhythm Masters); I forgot that's the way he used to do the show all the time. And I like that format better. It's more educational. I lounged with all the shower goods I've acquired lately and tried to steam the pain out of my back.

It didn't work, and I limped into New Year's Eve. Though I did manage to go dancing with K. Kid at Soul Club after having some drinks at my place.

Where's My Bike?

2012-01-01T21:52:00.000-08:00

To: Club Mix
Is it first second or third?
Dec. 29, 2011 5:23 PM

From: Colorado
Running 10 or 15 min late. I'll call you when I'm outside.
-Colorado
Dec. 29, 2011 7:25 PM

To: Colorado
I'm running late too.
Perfect. Be there in 5.
I am here.
Dec. 29, 2011 7:25 PM

•••

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Forgot. Bike downtown.
Jumping on bus.
Dec. 30, 2011 10:04 AM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
On my way.
Dec. 30, 2011 10:41 AM

From: K. Kid
Beware your lesbian gf: I'm buying chuck taylors right now.
Dec 30, 2011 4:03 PM

To: Club Mix
Where's my bike?
Dec. 30, 2011 4:47 PM

From: Club Mix
Ha! It's right in front of McCormick and schmick's on 4th and columbia! Ha fun with you last night!
Dec. 30, 2011 4:47 PM

From: K. Kid
Going in
Dec 30, 2011 5:31 PM

From: K. Kid
Sorry i had to run. Sweet guys. Love you
Dec 30, 2011 7:04 PM

To: K. Kid
Just leaving now. Got loud and drunk. Feel silly. Love u x a million.
Dec. 30, 2011 7:48 PM

To: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Feel terrible about our dumb fight. And doubly bad about not trying xxxx xxxxx xxx crazy great xxxxxx. Will do better in 2012 for sure.
Dec. 30, 2011 8:05 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
Aww. I'm sorry too. Lots of xxxxx right now, obv. Talk tomorrow.
Dec. 30, 2011 8:19 PM

From: Tip O'Neill
Xxxxxxl really enjoyed you.
Dec. 30, 2011 8:43 PM

•••

From: Bill Clinton
Quick note to see who might be up for new years eve dinner at our place around 730 and then everyone can go their seperateys.
Dec. 31, 2011 1:16 AM

To: Tip O'Neill
Had never officially spent time w Xxxxxxl. Had a great time. Thanks for hosting.
Dec. 31, 2011 8:21 AM

To: Valium
Of course, Karate Kid has organized a small cocktail hour at my pad. I think 4 of her G(WJ)HS pals are swinging by 7, 8, 9 ish. U and L should come by for 1 if u can.
Dec. 31, 2011 2:01 PM

The aforementioned pals later that night at Soul Club

To: Bill Clinton
Ahhh. Last minute decision for cocktail hour here. U and CB should come if no dinner party. Happy N Y.
Dec. 31, 2011 3:04 PM

To: Officer Z.
Pre NYE cocktail hour at my pad if ur free, sir. 7 8 9 10 whenever.
Dec. 31, 2011 3:05 PM

From: Valium
Ah, that'd be nice but I don't think we can run out on the boys (no Xxxxy this week). Have a lovely night.
Dec. 31, 2011 6:41 PM

To: Valium
U can bring boys of course. HNY either way. Been a big year Mr. Xxxxxxxx! Ha. I am in serious Charley Horse land.
Dec. 31, 2011 6:41 PM

From: Bill Clinton
Need us to bring anything?
Dec. 31, 2011 6:54 PM

To: Bill Clinton
Nah. It's gonna be 5 ppl max.
Dec. 31, 2011 6:54 PM

From: Bill Clinton
Ok, perfect
Dec. 31, 2011 6:54 PM

•••

email:

from: Shaun C.
to: xxxxx,
xxxxxx ,
Martian Bracelets
date: Sun, Jan 1, 2012 at 9:31 AM
subject first race in over two years

20-some degrees and windy. 5 k.

From: Martian Bracelets
to: Shaun C.
date Sun, Jan 1, 2012 at 10:40 AM
subject Re: first race in over two years

That is a freezing cold picture. Hopefully the run warmed you up.

Heading out to a buffet brunch ... check the menu... http://cafeflora.com/

Back and leg are totally screwed up here. But lovely NYE. Despite the back pain and the charley horse, ended up dancing @ Soul Night—a 60s soul dance night they have at this club not far from my house.

Hex Reading #146

2011-12-28T19:52:00.000-08:00

No matter how older and conservativer I get, I still love reading sharp hits (like this one) on the stupid, God damn Republican Party.

Last Night of Hanukkah, 2011

2011-12-28T19:24:00.000-08:00

From: K. Kid
Ok. We'll prob stay on the hill then. Just come to grandma's when you can?
Dec 27, 2011 1:59 PM

*First Night of Hanukkah here.

Johnny Rotten Shoes Returns from Louisiana, Mississipi, and Texas

2011-12-28T19:17:00.000-08:00

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
New song, re the plane: thank you for your epic freakout.
Dec 26, 2011 10:04 PM

From: Johnny Rotten Shoes
I SEE......
Dec. 26, 2011 10:28 PM