The Laughing Wolf

An Interesting Time At Quicklube

Since moving up to the wilds of NW Indiana, I've been using Quicklube to do oil changes and related service. I used to do it all myself, but between interesting engine design and the need to ensure proper disposal of the oil, I started letting others do it. Other than a tendency to try to pump up my tires when I didn't want it, I've had very good service from them. Until the other day.

I pulled in and requested an oil change and to be sure to check the level of the transmission fluid they changed the time before. Now, I watch the work because I used to do it and because I want to be sure things are done right. Hasn't been a problem before, but you never know and mistakes and accidents happen. Keeping them from becoming major problems means catching them early.

This time, I watch as the technician checks the air filter. Now in this Subaru, the way the air filter is done is a major PITA (and one of the reasons I think any car designer should have to work as a mechanic for a couple of years before designing), and it was being a PITA. As I watch, he manages to pull it out, but in so doing a nice strip of rubber gasket that is a part of the filter gets ripped off. I watch it happen. I am not happy. The technician tells me that the filter is slightly dirty, and that the strip is flapping, and offers to sell me a new one. I start to buy a one, as the strip is sort of needed. I say as much, upset, and that it will have to be replaced since the strip is torn. I then change my mind, as I am not going to pay someone for a part I feel they broke. He goes and talks to the manager, who does not come over and talk with me until the service is finished. He does not bring up the air filter, and when I do he offers to sell me one. He maintains that the strip could have been ripped previously. I disagree, and do express my unhappiness, though I never used any foul or inappropriate language. That said, it was clear that I was not happy. It was my impression that the manager did not care and was not going to make this right. So, I leave and I get a new air filter down the street. Upon reaching a computer (Friday), I fire off the following via the Quicklube WWW site.

Gentlemen,

I have just paid my last visit to Quicklube, which is a disappointment given the fairly good service I have had from the Lafayette location previously. When checking my vehicle, it was clear the technician was not familiar with the air/air-filter system on the Subaru Outback 4-door sedans. In removing the filter to check it, he managed to rip off some six inches of rubber gasket. He, and the manager, then offered to sell me a new one to replace the filter destroyed by the technician. Initially, I started to get a new one, since a new one truly is needed, but the attitude displayed -- including a complete indifference on the part of the manager to the fact that the filter was damaged/destroyed by the tech -- I decided not to. As I told the manager, if the tech didn't know what he was doing, he should not have been mucking around with the filter and assembly. While the manager did, finally, offer an apology, I really didn't feel the sincerity. What I felt, strongly, was much more of don't care, go away. So, I will. I will go away and buy a new air filter and replace the one your technician destroyed. I will go away and not patronize you again. I will go away and tell my friends and co-workers of the experience. I will go away and blog the experience so my readers can know of it as well. I just wanted to let you know why I was going away, tough given the attitude shown today, I don't think it matters to you.

Monday, I get the following:

Mr. Powers, I talked with Luke at the store and he agrees that we dropped the ball on this situation. He also stated that you have been a good customer and hates to loose your business. The tech who worked on your Subaru is relatively new and is still in training so I believe it is possible that we tore your air filter. We are NOT in business to rip people off and would like to replace your filter free of charge regardless if you choose to use Quicklube in the future. If you would like to have it replaced just stop in and Luke himself will take care of the work. Thanks for your Email and interest in Quicklube. -Kevin Davis

Now, I admit that I might should have been a bit more gracious, but I wrote back:

Sir,

It is too little, too late esp. since I think it was Luke who checked me out and copped some major attitude. I will not be back, especially as I have already had to purchase the new filter at my expense.

Blake

And I get back almost immediately the following very interesting missive:

Blake, I tried. In reviewing the video feed from the store it looks like you had the attitude more so than Luke! Some people you just can’t make happy. Please be careful about what you blog as it may result in legal action for slander. Remember there are 2 sides to every story.-Kevin

I just love the line Please be careful about what you blog as it may result in legal action for slander.

My response in e-mail is:

Sir,

As you choose, and I will be careful. Please also be aware that this e-mail exchange is a part of the record, and it is my intention to put it unedited into my post. I will be sure to send you the URL.

Blake

This is the first time in almost four years of writing about good and bad customer service, products, and such that a lawsuit has been brought up. Much less brought up before a post ever goes up. Especially as I was waiting for their response before posting...

So, let me be fair: I was not happy, and in point of fact got more and more upset with the events and attitude as I perceived them. I am still not happy, though I will admit that I might should have just accepted whatever was tossed my way and gotten on with things. It might have been something nice, possibly even very nice. But, I didn't. When I feel burned this way, I don't forget it and I won't go back. Your mileage may vary, and I note again that I have previously gotten pretty good service there. But, not this time. So, you are free to make up your own mind.

If they feel that my behavior and this post warrant rebuttal, they can post a reply here as a comment and on their own site if they want. It's not a problem, and it is the strength of the blogosphere. Both sides can post, and you/we the readers can judge. If they go legal, well, we will just have to see what happens. Anyone have the addy for the blogger legal defense fund and the EFF handy?

As for me, I plan to move on. As far as I am concerned, that message tells me all I need to know, and definitely won't be changing my mind so that I give them another chance.

LW

Update: Sent the following to Kevin:

Here is the URL:

http://laughingwolf.net/archives/002705.html

BTW, care to share the video tape from both the bay and the cash register? I would like to see it so that I can see about purchasing extra bandwidth so I can post it for download in the interest of fairness.

Blake

UPDATE II: Got this Tuesday morning, in response to the next-to-last e-mail:

Wow, you must enjoy playing games. Like I said, be careful this may cost you more in the end than you are willing to pay. I would think about how silly you are acting before you continue. -Kevin  

No response to the post or the final e-mail yet.

Meantime, this may get expanded to a full post soon, but for now allow me to recommend to all journalists (bloggers, specialty WWW sites, specialized journals, etc.) that you get a copy of the AP Stylebook and Libel Manual. The reporting of that organization may be execrable, but the style guide is good and the sections of libel and other legal issues truly is invaluable. It even provides an explanation of the difference between slander and libel for those ignorant in such matters. It can keep you from trouble, and a read can keep others from wasting their time and money in fruitless ventures.

For the record, I do not want anything from Quicklube. All I wanted at the time was for them to make things right, a thing that would have cost them less than $10.00. LW

Park's Seeds: Very Disappointing

Not sure about anyone else, but I am very disappointed in Park's Seeds this year. There is a special pepper I order from them each year, and this year the seed package was sparse, and it seems like I need to order 2-3 to get what I used to get in one. Then, I and my good neighbors went in on some raspberry plants which I ordered from them. With no notice or consultation, I got something else instead of the golden raspberry plants that were ordered. They are refunding my money, but I am very unhappy that they made no effort to inform me of the need for a switch or to ask me what I wanted -- and it's not like they don't have my e-mail, phone, and other means of contact. Anyone else having problems with them?

LW

Woo Hoo: Woks Are Here

I had hoped to have them for the weekend, but my woks from The Wok Shop have arrived. As many know, my kitchen is a bit bare in certain critical areas and the resources sparse.

I found the store many years ago during a business trip to San Francisco, and have bought woks for others from there. This time, I bought for me and obtained a traditional cast iron wok and a hand-hammered Peking-style wok. I will have to clean and season, but they e-mailed me their own tips for doing so and I will be following them. It will be later this week before I can start that process, but I am so looking forward to it. More on the woks as things progress.

LW

Route 66 Diner: Don't Bother

Up this morning at 0230 for an early morning photo shoot, finished it, taking care of business, and decide to splurge and get some breakfast. The work had me out in northern West Lafayette, and I decided to re-try the Route 66 Diner as I do check on some places that have earned a spot on my Don't Bother list.

The food there has always been, at best, mediocre, but a great wait staff made it worthwhile. Then, they fired or ran off all the good staff, and you could add at best mediocre service to the food, and, well, I just quit going. Being hungry, I thought I would check and see if things had changed in nine or so months.

They allegedly open at 0600, it is after the hour, and the sign is lit. The door is locked, and the waitron inside glared at me when I pulled on the locked door. In point of fact, she sat there doing stuff and pretty well ignored me after the glare. I finally gave up and walked next door to the Speedway, and picked up a couple of sausage and egg biscuits. Not bad, and sold to me by some friendly faces. So, I recommend that if you are ever over that way, forget Route 66 and go check out the Speedway. Better food and better service all around.

LW

IT People: Yet Anothe Reason To Avoid Dell

As if they didn't have a bad enough reputation, check out this entry detailing how they are refusing to honor their warranty.

Also, if you don't check out The Origin Of Soul on a regular basis, you should.

LW

Foie Gras lovers, alert!

Avian flu may be having an impact very soon on your favorite delicacy:

Foie gras alert as bird flu spreads

brought to you by the ever-browsing English Werewolf

Product Review: Mop & Glo

My own rules on language prevent me from describing this product as I would like, so I will simply say avoid it at all costs. Several at the blogmeet told me that had I asked they would have warned, but... Where were they when I was in the store? Not only did it not work, I found myself on my hands and knees hand scrubbing the stuff up off the floor the Friday of the blogmeet.

Also, need to correct an error from the blogmeet. While some used that stuff to cheat on boot/shoe shines, what I used and had work well (for a while) was Future. Worked well until one of the people doing the inspection figured out that I was using it and sent me back to spit shining...

So, any good suggestions for a no-wax vinyl tile floor?

LW

New European Deli/Russian Market

Spacibo has just opened on Highway 52 in West Lafayette, in the Bell Shopping Center. They have basics now, and will expand as business develops. Develop it should as they have not only some excellent breads and such (many out of the Baltic Bakery in Chicago), but they are also selling meal and dessert crepes and more. Yes, those are Russian things too... All are at some very good prices. Let me just say that my Tuesday dinner was much nicer than expected, with real sausages for dinner, followed by some of the crepes I was sent home with, maybe some of the hunter sausage and sheep milk cheese for a snack later...

Check it out.

LW

Ceramic Brake Pads: Just Say No

I wanted to follow up on the discussions in this post (and note that Ken was right) and my promise in this post to tell how things went. In short, ceramic pads suck.

They did not work well in freezing wet, and were much harder on the rotors than any type pad I have ever before used. The rotors not only overheated, they warped and both they and the ceramic pads were pitted beyond belief. Instead of getting 100,000-plus miles out of the rotors, I will be lucky to make 100,000 miles. The pads (and rotors, really) did not last a full year. We are not amused.

I was lucky and found a chain place that was willing to turn all four rotors, replace the ceramic pads with semi-metallic, and do some other minor tweaking for less than $170.00. It will get me by until warmer weather less-lean times, when I will have to replace the rotors (all four, because if you do the front you had better do them all).

So, my experience is to just say no to ceramic pads.

LW

A Good Reason Not To Buy Sony Products

Especially music CDs. I like to promote small and independent labels anyway, and this gives even more reason to do so. I believe in protecting digital rights, but this goes way too far. Thanks to Jan at Cascade Exposures for the heads-up.

LW

St. Elizabeth: Part II Much Better

Just a quick one, to say that despite what Eric, T1G, Blackfive, Tammi and others may say, I do have a heart. It is made of coal and burns, but it is there.

The second attempt at the stress test went much better than the first. I gave a precis of events to the receptionist at the cardiac lab, along with a few polite thoughts. She not only understood, but went out of her way to check up on me and let me know how sorry she was even after the stress test. I was quickly prepped, and back fairly quickly onto the treadmill.

I liked the cardiologist, though they do seem to have something for fringe science. Ended up in some great medical talk & discussions after the test, too. Things went well, and they ended the test before I was ready -- remember that thing about me and tests/challenges? I wanted to see exactly how far I could push (before dropping), but the the doc and the tech said no, that there was no point. Well, not for them, still would have liked to have known...

Recovering at home now. A wolf without much food, and only one cup of coffee is not laughing and probably waaay too much like Miska for comfort. Yes, I have those sad eyes going, looking sweet and in need of a hug... That's it, just a bit closer...

LW

Well, I Am Stressed By St. Elizabeth's

And considerably underwhelmed with the hospital and service providers for my stress test. If the intent is to stress me, I am there.

Let's go back to the set-up for this. I go in for the first part of my physical with the new doctor, and we agree that a stress test would be good. Her office arranges it, but has some problems getting the cardiac lab at a hospital in Lafayette to get back to them. They call me, and tell me that the test will be at X:XX and to be at the reception desk for the hospital 30 minutes before then for paperwork and prep. Okay, done.

Well, not quite. I received multiple calls on my mobile from said hospital wanting to "pre-register" me. Despite the fact that I am already in their system from the ER visit with "fidel." Despite the fact my doctor's office was said to have already faxed over info and insurance info. Despite the fact that I very nicely pointed out that it was a mobile and to please call me at a different number and at an agreed upon time. That call never happened. Oh, and never a message -- I missed the first call or two and called back to find out why the missed call. Found out the institution, never could get anyone in that department to answer. I finally pulled the car over the last time yet another different person called and went through everything I could under the circumstances. I was told all was golden and that I did not have to show up at the 30-minutes-early time but at the scheduled time.

So I show up today at the 30-minutes-early time anyway figuring better safe than sorry. I check in with reception and am told to wait. I wait. At almost the time for my appointment, I am called into registration. To register. A check reveals that I am already in the system, and I take a minute to supply copies of some legal paperwork while I am there. Not that I have any hope they will find it at this point, but... Okay, go on back.

The lab is something of a madhouse and I am told I will be processed shortly. Reasonably quickly I am given standard paperwork, and initial and sign, and turn it in. About 30 minutes later a young man comes up and starts in on a "what time where you told to be here" thing with a strong implication that I had been late and because of that the test would have to be re-scheduled because of that fact thank-you-very-much. I am firm but surprisingly nice when I point out that I arrived ahead of the 30-minute-early time I had been given, that I had been in the lab at the time I had been given initially, and implied equally that I was not happy and unimpressed. I also pointed out that I was having to take time off of work, and that re-scheduling was not really a valid option on my list. I did not quite pull a Tammi and use "Here is what I need you to do" but it was close. He admits that up front had dropped the ball, and he would see what he could do but the doctor was back in his office and very busy (and important, etc. by implication). I told him firmly that as I was already taking time off, that I would wait as taking yet more time off was not convenient for me, thank-you-very-much-I'm-important-too.

A while later he returns. The doc can't do it, but another doctor (partner?) will. In a few hours. I am told in a condescending manner that is okay to eat a light breakfast, but only very light (served with some attitude?). I respond that I had already done so at 0430, and that (since it was such an issue) I would wait. Among the more interesting things I note is that I was never told at any time by the lab, the doctor, or the hospital anything about eating or not eating. Just that having done this before I know not to eat a lot. Small bit of oatmeal and only one cup of coffee. Not good, and I am really looking forward to a real lunch as the two cookies I ate as I drove away are not going to get it.

No, not a happy camper. Extremely disappointed so far. If it really was not needed, I would be telling people where to put the test. It is needed, so I will deal though I may end up reminding some that they are service providers, not gods, and that the service so far sucks.

LW

Another Serenity Push

No, I am not taking payola for this (never offered), but just continuing to delight in pushing a fine film that is some of the best science fiction (and western) cinema in years. So much so that I want more, and the only way to get it is to have the movie remain strong on the third weekend...

Now you can see the first nine minutes for free. Link courtesy of Dean.

LW

Serenity Redux

I went back with friend G and friend P last night to re-watch Serenity and it was well worth doing. A couple of small things cropped up this time, things I wish he might have done just a bit diffferent, but still the WOW. The details continue to pop out, and without giving away any spoilers, watch the feet. Yes, I said watch the feet. I don't think this will be a spoiler, but will put the rest in extended entry anyway.

In non-spoiler mode, I am still very much in love with River. G remarked that she now know what she wants to be when she grows up. *G* I may also have my revenge on G, in that she wants to borrow my DVDs of the series. Yes, I have agreed to loan them to her. I did not, however, say when that would be. I think I can have fun with this...

LW

Follow The Scent! »

Big Baltimore Do's

One thing I can say about the entire trip is that I would love to go spend more time in Baltimore. It has character, charm, and more -- and is not Homicide: Life on the Street. In particular I want to explore more of Federal Hill, Fells Point, and the area between Inner Harbor and Penn Station. I also want to take an ice chest with me for food and such...

If you are lucky, you will meet up with Jon (who has just re-designed his site and boy do I have him fooled *G*), or someone like him. Jon was friendly, articulate, curious and passionate on subjects ranging from media to music to literature, and knows the area well. Meeting him was a true pleasure. I believe sometimes that meeting people like him sets of a wonderful chain of similar meetings, linked somehow. After meeting Jon, I ended up meeting a number of people -- from a set/event dresser to a bartender -- who delighted in helping me explore the best of the town in the very limited free time available.

One particular recommendation for which I owe Jon was Ten Oh Six, a Thai/fusion restaurant that was wonderful. Just a few short blocks (remember that I consider anything under two miles a short walk) from Inner Harbor on Light, this is a delightfully quirky place with a killer menu. The place is long and narrow, and on two or three levels, with the kitchen area on the left as you come in. I really don't know how big it is since I caged a place sitting at a "bar" in front of the kitchen. My only complaint about the seat was having to stand up to see up and over as they worked on the counter right in front of me. The place is family run, with the Chef and Owner also acting as a delightful host, his wife serving as the Sous Chef, and their son helping out with cooking, serving, and more. From the fusion menu, I chose fois gras as an appetizer (something easy to mess up actually) and Drunken Noodles from the Thai menu as an entree. The fois gras was seared well, and the lychee with it done in an interesting flavor. The Drunken Noodles, had they been just a bit spicier, would have been one of my top five Thai meals of all time, including homestyle Thai I have been lucky enough to try. The Key Lime pie was a little disappointing, but I've gotten used to getting some of the best there is. If you go to Baltimore, I highly recommend trying this place, and I want to go back one day to try the rack of boar...

Afterwards, you may need some liquid refreshment to cool down, so check out Ryleigh's Pub which is a couple of blocks further down and around a corner. No homebrewed stouts, alas, but some good IPA and the like. Quirky and enjoyable, and I found myself watching the last half of Lost on the television in the booth. Be warned, there always seems to be a good crowd there.

Next door is the Thirsty Dog and it too was crowded. They also do some brewing, apparently, though I was less than impressed with their stout. My server impressed me and had I not been on my feet about 10 hours at that point, I could have stood there for quite a while watching her move...

In the Inner Harbor area, I was treated to a very good corned beef sandwich and a dark Irish ale at Tir Na Nog Irish Pub. I would tell you more about the place and the ale, but the notes I took are currently missing, though I hope they will turn up at some point in the unpacking process...

Beware the Italian Bakery in the Inner Harbor mall/complex closest to the Hilton. The place is good, very good, and deadly to the diet. Again, more here, but the notes are missing and may have been eaten by the crowd that descended upon the treats I took back from this place.

Also beware the fudge shop in the same complex. The saleslady is good, very good, and two of us ended up splitting the almost $40 bill that resulted from listening to her siren song...

The last major DO for today is Bertha's. As in Eat Bertha's Mussels. I have never been a fan of mussels before, but after trying them here look forward to the next time I get fresh and well-prepared mussels. The scallops were not bad either, but go for the large order of mussels with all the sauces to get a truly wonderful taste of Baltimore. Accompany it with Bertha's Best Bitter or an Oliver's IPA, and that is about a good as it gets with fresh seafood.

Had I more time, I would have truly enjoyed the Water Taxi service. About $8.00 gets you an all-day pass to go to various sections of the city, Ft. McHenry, and more. Given traffic certain times of the day, it can also be the fastest way around too... Very nice, and after what Notre Dame did to Purdue the other day, I don't regret calling Tammi from the harbor and making her listen to the sounds of chop hitting the boat...

The aquarium is also well worth a look. The exhibits appear to be well done, though I did not read a lot, being far too occupied at watching the real display of fish and other delights swimming around. BTW, referring to some of the fish in the ray/shark tank as "sushi" can and does get one into trouble...

There is more, but that will have to wait. I look forward to getting back to Baltimore and exploring further.

LW

A Big Baltimore Don't

If business takes you to Baltimore and you are a business traveller or otherwise need access to the net, do not stay at the Radisson Lord Baltimore Hotel downtown. The best part of the hotel is the lobby, and it is worth going in to look at the ceiling. Other than that...

I was travelling with someone and the room was in their name. We asked for a split folio at the start, and they did not want to do that. No biggie, I thought... Then came the problems. One of the most profound was with the Golden Tree for-fee allegedly high-speed wifi. Suffice it to say that I played Diogenes and wandered the halls with laptop and field strength meter trying to find signal for the pricey service. That was the best experience I had with the service while there, and given the effort it took to get a Golden Tree rep to depart script and realize that there was no bleeping signal, I will give serious consideration to picking any hotel that does not use them. Esp. given what I was told by a member of the staff in regards signal and service...

My travelling companion complained enough that the manager moved us up to the "Plaza Level" to ensure better service. Great, except still not a great signal and the fact that two of us needed to be able to log in, sometimes at the same time, seems to have escaped notice.

This also does not mention the fun of the move. Yes, they moved us, whilst I was working. No, not a problem sayeth the manager, he just needs to bring his key and they will issue a new one. I get back after a very long and tiring day of being on my feet, and get attitude. Of the "we don't know nothing about it and who the hell are you" variety. Of the calling of security, an escort, and the need to double verify who I was and that I was supposed to be in a room with my clothes, luggage, medicines, and more along with a great deal of implication of trouble in my future if I can't establish well beyond a reasonable doubt that I am supposed to be in the room. Call my roomate? Why, no, nothing that reasonable or logical. No, it was all about the 'tude and the night shift was full of it in more ways than one. To the point that I very nicely and without invective chewed the hapless security person for several minutes expressing my displeasure as a guest and a long-time rewards member.

The full of it was not limited to just the front desk and such types, but to the bartender (who really should pick a better role model than Tom Cruise) and even as far down as the guy who delivers the papers with the loudest BAM possible at 0500 and runs when the travelling companion comes down off the ceiling and tries to get his name...

I could go on and mention holes in walls and ceilings and other delights even on the Plaza Level, or other great bits of 'tude and ignorance of professional issues, but I think the point is made. Avoid this hotel like the plague.

LW

UPDATE 1: Just got off the phone from calling Gold Rewards, who transferred me elsewhere, and expressing my displeasure with the hotel. They want to send something to "make it right" but I have also told them firmly that there is no way to make it right. I don't care what they do, I can't recommend this facility and there is no way to make right the experience. The experience is what it was, nothing more and nothing less, and I have no desire to stay there again to see if it improves. They also want to read this column, and I hope they do. May they react better to the blogosphere than many, but I would not be surprised if they don't. We will just have to wait and see.

Serenity: The Blog Review Experience

Well, I promised to talk about it all, and the experience is part and parcel of the story. Overall, it was a good experience. Getting to it from downtown Baltimore is a tale in and of itself, but once there things went very smoothly. I quickly found the Universal rep and was directed to the line of people already waiting. It was a good size line, and I am not sure how many were bloggers as there were several groups there.

Like most screenings, this one was a mixed bag. There were representatives from various local Old Media, student newspapers at colleges and universities (not sure about high school, but could have been), and various groups that appeared to include everything from local craft services to the staff of a local comic convention.

While the bloggers were treated fairly, there are a couple of suggestions for the Universal (and Grace Hill) people:

1. If you have seats reserved for press, and won't let mere bloggers sit there, don't immediately then turn around and offer them to non-media groups, friends, etc. It is either MSM only, or come up with a better designation for those anointed.

2. Some old-fashioned press packets are a good idea to keep around. I would have loved to go into the crew list and credits last night while things were fresh upon my mind, but couldn't. Yes, it is available online, but I needed it then, and good PR anticipates that many/some reporters are going to be in the same boat.

3. Bloggers, like media and those special groups, like freebies too. Make sure they get some rather than be excluded.

These are not major gripes, just some tweaks and fine tuning that can make a good experience even better.

What truly made the experience for me was meeting some other bloggers, in particular Jon. When he found out I was going to try to get a taxi to get back downtown, he politely and firmly indicated to me that I was off my rocker,and instead took me back to my hotel. Along the way, we discussed the movie, music, life, and more. It was a great experience that put a wonderful cap on the day. Thanks for the ride, the suggestions, and the camaraderie.

LW

Serenity: The Review

The short review: Go See It.

The longer review: If you like Westerns, action, or Science Fiction movies, it is all of them at once and well worth seeing. If you like strong characters, especially female characters, go see it. If you like good cinematography and music scores, go see it.

Serenity is the same odd combination of Western and Science Fiction as the original series. Instead of horses, the cast mounts a spaceship steed and flies off to the next town, bad guys hangout, etc. It is in some ways an action film, with the action being almost non-stop and all the better for some of the best coming from the female characters.

The cinematography is good. In all too many television-to-big-screen efforts, the visuals remain with the small screen. That is not the case here, with well done photography and rich cinematography that only had too very brief moments of non-big-screen. I could have wished for a little bit better on parts of a major fight scene, but that is in part simply because I was trying to follow one person and wanted to see them very clearly at every microsecond. The two jarring moments are mere seconds, one small-screen cut in the first part of the movie, and one non-big screen moment (not sure what to call it, not necessarily small-screen, just not big-screen) in the latter half.

The musical score is chosen well, with the Western motif getting a strong start and providing a shock moment at the very start of the movie. After that initial deliberate shock, the music worked so perfectly with the visuals that I never had a "boggle" moment caused by it. In fact, I want to play the soundtrack alone to be able to pay more attention to it.

Now for what you have been wondering about, the acting. In a short word, very well done. While some performers were stronger than others, there was not a bit of bad acting from anyone, major or minor, in the movie. The major characters were very well done, with the characters being "real" to the audience. There are many things I would like to call out, but I only have time right now to commend Ron Glass for a very good performance, that also opens up a wonderful backstory to Joss and company for the next movie. Or maybe the one after that, given the way Joss's mind works.

The story itself is very well done, and while it helps to have seen the television series, it is not required. Many of the smaller details and points are better appreciated with the backstory, but still provide a rich and complex tapestry to be enjoyed by new audiences. Then again, given his history with Buffy, I expected no less from Joss. If anything, I expected even a bit more, but only time and more movies/shows will tell if I got it or not. My only complaint about the story is that a couple of parts did feel a bit rushed, and I would be interested to see if any deleted scenes fill in a few gaps.

There is more, but I am time limited right now and can't get into all the detail that I'd like. I won't give any spoilers, save to say that Joss appears to have been reading some John Ringo, but that made the story much more real -- better even -- than if it had been typical Hollywood. When the awards start coming around, this is a movie that should be in serious contention for some of them. I say go see it, and decide for yourself, and I may go back again too.

LW

One More Day To Serenity

Only one more day until the screening of Serenity. I am so looking forward to this, and will blog about the entire process, not just the movie.

LW

Serenity Movie Screening: Woo Hoo!

I have mentioned a time or two that I was a fan of the short-lived but excellent TV show Firefly, and that I was very much looking forward to the movie Serenity. Last night, I came home to the wonderful news that I am getting to attend a special screening of the movie in Baltimore on the 27th.

For those not familiar with the series, here is the official synopsis of the movie:

Joss Whedon, the Oscar® - and Emmy - nominated writer/director responsible for the worldwide television phenomena of BUFFY THE VAMPIRE, ANGEL and FIREFLY, now applies his trademark compassion and wit to a small band of galactic outcasts 500 years in the future in his feature film directorial debut, Serenity. The film centers around Captain Malcolm Reynolds, a hardened veteran (on the losing side) of a galactic civil war, who now ekes out a living pulling off small crimes and transport-for-hire aboard his ship, Serenity. He leads a small, eclectic crew who are the closest thing he has left to family –squabbling, insubordinate and undyingly loyal.

To say that I am looking forward to this is an understatement. Yes, I know the man's politics and I know his programs. As a writer and producer he has impressed me on many levels. Very few shows have the complexity and richness of Buffy, where small thow-away lines in season one became important plot points in future seasons.

If the movie is good, I will tell you. If the movie is not good, I will tell you. I hope to tell you Wednesday morning, but as I will be on travel I can't guarantee access. As soon as I can, however, you will hear from me on what happened, how it happened, and what I thought of the movie.

LW

Product Review: Traderspoint Creamery Yogurt

One of the things that Europe and Scandinavia do very well, IMO, is yogurt. When I was first introduced to it in Denmark at age 15, all my experience had been with the drek marketed here. I ate out of politeness at first, then to the laughter of my hosts as I exclaimed how good it was and dug in for real. Bryer's is about the best of the mass-produced, but it does not come close in my book. Today, however, I found Traderspoint Creamery products and tried their yogurt. This stuff is good. It is not filled with gelatin and junk, has a great taste, and a richness of texture and flavor that beats any of the mass-market stuff out there. If you like yogurt and can get some of this (seems to be a semi-small operation), try it.

LW

Lawn Mower Question

If someone was needing to get a lawn mower and had a quarter acre or so of regular lawn, and a quarter acre plus of fairly deep grass to cut, what would you recommend for them? Would you go with a plain mower, a mulching mower, a bag mower, or what? Given the size of the lot, a push mower (a la the Coyote Blender) is not an option for more than just the first area, IMO. See, Evil Glenn is not the only one who can do mower blogging... BTW, no reason I ask, no reason what-so-ever.

LW

Firefly: Serenity

I read about it at Ith's, who I knew had good taste, at Blackfive's, who is a Remo Williams fan too (we all have our dirty little secrets), and too many more to link. All I have to say is WOW and the trailer for Firefly: Serenity blew my socks off. I can't wait for this fall! Love the quotes "Oh god, oh god, we're all going to die?" and "I am unarmed." Heh.

LW

Discover/Novus

I have been a customer of Discover for several years, but recently had the chance to pay off and cancel my Discover card. Actually, I did this for another card and some other things, and did so without problem, fuss, or muss on those. I cannot say the same for Discover, and am extremely displeased with the lack of service and what appears to be deliberate efforts to make the process as difficult as possible.

When I contacted them about paying and closing, I was told that my bill currently was X, but that they did their finance charge daily -- and had no way to know what that amount was or when it would be posted. So, I paid off the full amount, used my cashback bonus award to pay into the account so that it had a credit balance that would more than take care of any finance charge. Throughout this process, I was told that unlike every other card I've dealt with, that they did not know the finance charge and could not find out what it was. I waited a period of time, called back yet again, and was told that since nothing had posted there must not be a charge, so I was sent the credit balance and I was told that the account was closed (but could be re-opened with no penalty or application anytime in the next Y months; heard this repeatedly).

Imagine my surprise when I got a statement from them this week, with a charge. Yep, that finance charge that they could not determine or tell me, and that I had been told wasn't going to happen was there. It was a small amount, but I was less than happy over the principle of the thing. After going through the voice mail system, I ended up with a (young sounding) female who proceeded to inform me that I had not done things right, had been quoted the full payoff price, inferred strongly that I could never have been told that they did not know the finance charge, and that too bad so sad nothing could be done. When I requested to talk to a supervisor, she informed me that she was just as empowered as the supervisor who could do nothing more than what she had done and had she not answered all my questions and what else needed to be said. This dragged on, and when I pressed her about her refusal to put me through, she denied that this was the case that she was merely providing assistance. I hung up. I then called back, got through after a 5-10 minute wait to a supervisor, and explained what had happened from the start and my extreme dissatisfaction with Discover/Novus. Funny, for someone who could do nothing different than the first person I talked to, this supervisor was able to review the case, remove the finance charge, initiate a refusal on the check I had sent them in between the two calls, and apologize.

Too bad, so sad. I informed the supervisor that she should sit on the check (neglecting despite temptation to recommend folding into sharp angles and corners) because I had no faith or confidence that any of this would happen. I still don't, and rather suspect that at lot of this is aimed at preventing customer loss by dragging out the process well past the point of ridiculous. I rather suspect that all of it, from the mysterious inability to determine the finance charge to the entire process is to get people to give up and keep the account open, thus raising numbers and profits.

Given all that I have gone through in trying to close the account, I will believe that it is closed and I truly have a zero balance not when I get the latest promised letter and zero-balance statement, but a year from now when that is still the case.

My advice: the card is of limited utility and the customer service is rotten/non-existent. If you are considering getting a Discover card or doing business with Discover/Novus, don't. If you already are, look at changing -- but be prepared for a long battle to do so.

LW

MEDI Binder

You will notice a new Blogad over on the right for MEDI Binder. This is a product, developed by blogger and practicing MD Dr. Benjamin England, designed to help you keep up with the most crucial medical records. Not only will this help you, but it can do the same for doctors so that they can make truly informed decisions on care. Go check it out, and think about it. I know that I am going to be doing so, since it would be a very good thing for me to have along on travel.

LW

Product Review: Canon 20D

Life has had its ups-and-downs of late, and while mostly up, one thing very difficult was done. While I am not ready to discuss it yet, that event pushed me to do something nice for me. That nice was the purchase of a Canon 20D digital SLR. I have been wanting to get back into serious photography for a while and knew that digital was the way to go.

Yet, the purchase of the Canon was a major step in more than just price. All of my 35mm film work was done on Nikon, and I was a member of the Nikon Professional Society for a few years. Nikon was in my hands as I photographed the first Shuttle launches, covered stories ranging from plane crashes to dance recitals, and trekked into the wilds. My first digital camera(s) were Nikon, both at work and at home, and I have taken my CoolPix 990 literally around the world. I had thought that Nikon was pretty much untouchable in terms of lens and camera quality, but I was wrong.

The last couple of months have given me the chance to check out a number of systems and do some evaluation. When it comes to digital cameras, I have decided, the people to watch are Canon. The quality of the optics is top rate, and the lens technology superb. The cameras consistently beat the competition at almost every level, and the user interface, while daunting in complexity, is extremely user friendly. For those not interested in truly serious work, you can set the 20D to do auto everything and just snap away. Or, you can choose from 11 other major settings and do as much or as little as you like.

Right now, I am using it primarily in auto while I learn the camera and system. The results are very good:

Here is Ayla with a twinkie she found during the Easter Egg Hunt yesterday at Wolf Park. The image is degraded for the Web, but still shows the level of detail captured by the system. As for that pastry, it was not eaten but cached for later.

Here is a shot I took this morning of my Thanksgiving cactus, which has decided to bloom yet again. Apparently the move and changes in light/climate have it a tad bit confused.

Again, this is not a high-quality image shown, but one saved and trimmed for the Web. Yet, an impressive level of detail is still clearly visible.

So far, the largest drawback to the system is memory. During the events yesterday I shot enough images to almost fill a 1 Gb memory card. I foresee more cards and more external hard drives in my future.

I will keep you up to date on how things go with the camera, but so far it is safe to say that I am very pleased and impressed with the system. More as it develops...

LW

Some Computer Thoughts

My Titanium PowerBook has been a very good computer, but it has had a long and rough life. I have used it as my desktop unit, my travel unit, and probably for a few other things. This has led to some problems starting to show up with the display (minor for now), battery life issues, and to the interesting noises coming from the hard drive. With luck, I will have a chance to do something about it in about two weeks. That said, the question is what to do?

The obvious solution is a new laptop, but that is expensive and this is still basically a good unit. My current thought is to look at getting a desktop unit, maybe a 20" I-Mac decked out, which would actually be the same or less than a new deluxe top-of-the-line laptop. Then, put a bit more into a new hard drive for the current laptop, a new battery, maybe a memory upgrade, and end up with two good computers for about what one really good new laptop would cost. Without the constant use, the display issue is not a problem on the laptop. A good I-Mac or G5 with good display would give me a unit for home as well.

Thoughts or suggestions?

LW

I Blame David Weber

Posting may still be a bit off, as things are still hectic and I did not feel great yesterday. In fact, not good at all. David Weber did not help.

Last night, I went to bed early and was reading his "new" book Bolo (only one truly new story in it though) when I hit a description of the "enemy" as "The Puppies." I have been at Wolf Park way too much, because when I hear that phrase I think of "The Puppies" of the main pack. My friends, I tell you now that the mere thought of Renki with access to multi-megaton-per-second firepower in an AI-driven tank is indeed the stuff of nightmares...

LW

Digital Cameras

The InstaPundit has some commentary on digital cameras and some good links. While it may be treason for a former member of the Nikon Professional Society to say so, I must admit that I have been looking hard at the Canon systems. Not hurting that was the fact that Monty Sloan, also a former Nikon person, is using Canon and only has raves about it/them. From what he says, and I have seen, the menus are better, the cameras easier to use, and they appear to have better quality control on production and better technology overall. Just a bit of quick food for thought on a fun subject.

LW

Welcome Back Pete!

Please do take the time to click on the blogad on the right, for Pete has returned. And to be blunt, I would love for him to stay. His products are good and of a good quality, and there is a bit more there than just the shirts. So, go check it out and please let him know that you saw him on The Laughing Wolf.

LW

UPDATE: Yes, this was a shameless plug, but not nearly as shameless as this one. Thanks to Bill at INDC Journal for the link.

Dear T-Mobile: It's A Bug

Nevermind that they call it a feature, it is a bug since it can't be turned off. As a helpful customer service, T-Mobile is now sending a text message to me everytime I get a voice mail and don't take it immediately, to tell me that I have a voice mail. Customer service was nice, helpful, and polite, but also let me know that there is no way to shut the service off. Feh.

LW

Nikon For Sale

In unpacking, I realized that I have not used my film camera in years, probably about five or more. If anyone is interested, I am asking $300 for:

Nikon FM2, black body, good shape, unused for several years
Nikon MD12 motor drive
Camera strap is free
Nikkor 50 mm lens, manual, 1:1.8 w Nikon L37c filter
Nikkor 135 mm lens, manual, 1:2.8 w Nikon L37c filter
Sunpack Auto 522 flash unit with sync cable(s?), AC Adaptor, spare battery holder
Bottom mount bracket for Sunpack
Windsor W-14 top mount flash, never used by me
Tamron 2X teleconverter for Nikon
Hoya Varicross filter
Tiffen CC30R filter
Nikon B 12 filter
Nikon A 2 filter
Nikon Soft 1 filter
Nikon L37C filter
Nikon Y52 filter
Tenba P595 Pro bag
Some misc. dust removal gear

Price is cash, shipping extra, no guarantee since I have not used the gear in so long. Would love to find it a good home where it would be used and respected. It was and is one of the best manual cameras ever made, in my not-so-humble-opinion. Drop me a line if interested.

LW

One Thing I Miss From Japan

Heated toilet seats. Nuff said.

LW

USPS Still Doesn't Get

The concept of customer service. I finally got my official notice of change of address, but it indicated that only mail going to my full name would be forwarded. I called the extremely unhelpful automated service, that after what seemed like ten minutes finally gave me a number to call at my old post office for assistance. The first person I spoke to there told me that you have to submit a separate form for each possible name or variant of a name to have all mail forwarded. She then sent me to a supervisor who claimed that he had never heard of anyone, repeat anyone, having more than one name. The logical and factual absurdity of such is boggling, and I had to repeat more than once that it was not truly different names but rather use of different modes of address. Even then, he persisted in saying that he had never heard of such a thing. Gee, I guess no one ever called Ronald Wilson Reagan Ronnie, Ronald, RW, or anything else and I bet all his mail was addressed just to Ronald Wilson Reagan. I was tactless enough to point out that they still did not get customer service, but that I was doing my part by pointing out a problem. He responded by saying that there was nothing he could (and by implication would) do about it. He did finally say that he would take the time to check with the delivery person (a very nice man who I complemented). He also then went into a story about problems he was having with his cable company to illustrate poor customer service and why nothing could be done. At that point, I reminded him that I had done my part and that this was long distance, at which he hung up on me. Hard to believe it has been more than 15 years since President Reagan ended the postal monopoly which had been enforced at gunpoint, and opened up packages and more to competition. Hard to believe that after so long, the USPS still has problems competing and can't understand why, despite the obvious fact that they still just don't get the basics of customer service.

LW

Just out of curiosity, I ran through the obvious variants and came up with the fact that a person with a first and middle name would need at least seven change of address forms to meet the regulations of the USPS:

Ronald Wilson Reagan
Ronald W. Reagan
Ronald Reagan
R. W. Reagan
R. Wilson Reagan
R. Reagan
Wilson Reagan

If they are junior or third, or you would end up with needing 14 forms to cover all possible variants of the name to ensure proper mail forwarding, those above and these:

Ronald Wilson Reagan III
Ronald W. Reagan III
Ronald Reagan III
R. W. Reagan III
R. Wilson Reagan III
R. Reagan III
Wilson Reagan III

Given this, why is there only one form in the official change of address kit if you have to file for each possible variant of your name?

UPDATE II: The official date for the change of address was 15 December. Give them a day for reality, and it has now been 13 days without a single piece of forwarded mail reaching me. Now, they say it takes 10-12, but I think I may just start a feature on Mail Held Hostage and note for one and all how long it is before any forwarded mail shows up at the new lair. I've also just met my regular delivery person and they struck me as very nice and intelligent. They were a bit surprised at the conversation I had, and are looking into/out for any forwarded mail. Among the mail held hostage is at least one check and one gift, for both of which I have plans and said plans are to take place in the next few days. We are not amused. LW

Product Review: Tiger Balm

One reason I am able to move this morning is Tiger Balm. To my mind, it is better than any other rub and one I save for really bad jobs. Part of this is that it is powerful, the other is the odor: People will know you are wearing it. You can find it at most good Oriental groceries and even at some pharmacies. Warning: activation is delayed and do NOT massage with it. For sore muscles and the like, it is very, very good.

LW

Ah, The Joys Of Penske

Well, the day began bright and early for the Werewolf and I and we left Atlanta about 0430 for Huntsville. Traffic was good, the weather cold but nice, and as a result we even arrived ahead of schedule, which allowed us to get coffee and fuel before going to the Decatur Transit to pick up our truck.

To pick up the truck, ah, there’s the rub. It should have been ready about 0830 for a 0900 local pickup. We arrive, and no truck. It is on the way, be just about 15 –30 minutes, so sorry. Well that 15 minutes ended around 1130, which was great except that we were supposed to pick up an item from remote storage between 0930 and 0945. During this time, I was told several times it was on the way, as was the office from which I was renting. It appears that this information was faulty, to be polite, and at least some of the assurances were made by the main office without checking.

By the time we are able to meet the people scheduled for the earlier meeting, get the item, and get back to the storage unit, it is 1315 and we needed lunch. Also, I had contracted for a car carrier, and the truck that finally arrived had a dolly. Joy, and not acceptable. The Penske manager agreed to deliver one to us at the storage unit, and he did so right as we got back from lunch.

Fine, we are now five hours behind schedule. The Werewolf was not supposed to stay and help, but did. (thank you, Thank You, THANK YOU!) Also, one of my favorite people in the world showed up and helped out. Since she is a logistics and shipping person, she helped make sure all was done right. (thank you, Thank You, THANK YOU!)

Except, that didn’t matter. I already knew of an alignment problem with the right front tire and was prepared to live with it since I could not afford to let them waste another five hours. Despite all the weight and balance work done, the rear suspension does indeed sag. Joy. It is now 2130 hours and we have just discovered that the auto carrier finally delivered (five and a half hours after it was supposed to be provided) for Pups is broken. One of the ramps needed to get Pups up there is jammed solid in place. I have called the emergency hotline and someone is on the way to fix it, or see if it can be fixed. They are also going to see if I need to take the truck into the shop in the morning to have the suspension examined and/or fixed. They are supposed to be here in an hour, but based on performance to date I will believe it when I see it. Supper? What’s that? Never mind the other plans for the day, including business that was supposed to get taken care of…

We are not amused. It is bad enough that they failed to honor their contract at the start and did not have the truck ready. It is bad enough that they did not have the right equipment even then. But to have this problem and bring defective equipment is beyond the pale. At this point, I don’t care what they do or what they offer, it will take force majeure to make me ever use Penske for anything ever again. Strong advice from me: Go with Budget or anyone else, but do not depend on Penske for anything.

LW
(note, this shows as Friday but is being written late Thursday night)

UPDATE: The Werewolf had a two-plus hour drive on home, so sent him on off with many more thanks. I finally got fed up and walked to Krystal and got something to eat about 2220 hours. 2240 hours, the repair service arrived and used a prybar to get the ramp out. I asked him about the rear-end of the truck, and he said that he did not think it too low. With his professional opinion, I am proceeding on and not stopping for service. I am not at all sure about this, and have some serious concerns, but given that their repair service said it is a go, I will give it a try. After a long hot shower and some sleep, it rapidly approaching 24 hours since I got up to start this trip. LW

If A Food Establishment

Has to hire people to dress up in costumes and twirl signs out on the road everyday to lure in new customers, there usually is a reason for the lack of repeat customers. Think on it, and choose wisely.

LW

Some Thoughts On Merck, Drugs, and Medicine

I’ve been meaning to post on this for a while, but real life has intervened. Net result, this will not be quite as detailed and link-rich (just go read the last two weeks over at Galen's Log for goodposts on Merck and on the vaccine issue) as I would like, but will provide a good starting place for research and thought.

Yes, I am one of the ones effected by Vioxx and its recall. The extent to which I will be affected remains to be seen: it may be simply the loss of a drug that worked well on me. As for how I feel, the jury is out because there simply is not enough information yet available to form a reasonable opinion. There are claims made that Merck has long known of the heart problems, and there are equally compelling claims that they did not. The truly important point is, alas, getting lost in the finger pointing and the lining up of lawyers at the potential trough. The important point is that we had a drug in the first place.

I have lost count of the number of people I have met who appear to think that pharmaceutical companies dream up a drug, make a sample, take it to the FDA for easy approval, and then put it on the market. Depending on who you talk to, this is either straightforward or accompanied by bribes, hiding of bad results, and more. You pays your money and you take your distorted reality. Then there are others who feel that the problem lies in the big drug companies, that they are to blame. The fact is, under our current system, there would be no drugs without those big companies because the system demands them.

Yes, a small company can develop the idea for a new drug and even do all the research on it. Such can be done for a reasonable amount, provided you consider tens to hundreds of millions of dollars reasonable. Modern drugs are not made by random combinations of compounds or brews, or even trial and error, as has been the case in the past. Today, companies use combinatorial chemistry, structure-based drug design, and genetics to develop drugs that are targeted and effective. Drugs that affect the entire system are not desired, because of side effects. Instead, what the companies (and patients) want are drugs that target a specific site or area and only that area – with the result of very effective treatment with few or no side effects. We are still not there yet, but that is the direction research is pursuing.

Genomics, protein crystallography, and other delights take facilities, researchers, and even access to esoteric things such particle accelerators. Some of that is very reasonable in cost, others are quite expensive. To develop a new drug requires a good bit of R&D expenditure.

Let’s say that a small company does this. They have developed a new drug that will meet a need, have gotten the funding to do the R&D, spent the months/years required for this, and have developed it. Now, you have to go through the FDA approval process. According to published information, the FDA process takes 5-7 years and average costs that are reported as being $500-$800 million dollars. This is per drug people, and if part way through you develop an improved version of the drug, go back, do not pass go, and start all over again. Not many small companies can afford to do this, so it takes the resources of the big pharmaceutical corporations to pay for it; to deal with the massive amount of FDA paperwork that has to be filled out just so and filed just when and while hopping on the right foot; and, to cover against litigation.

Litigation will come, because the FDA and a gullible public tout risk-free medicine. One size fits all, no risk, and no consequences. When the inevitable happens and there is a bad reaction or a death, the lawyers will swarm and the shout will go out that “They should have known!” How they should have known is the mystery, and one that the lawyers and others who get rich off the process would not like you to solve, for doing so would expose the fallacy.

The fact is, there is no such thing as a risk-free drug. The FDA testing and approval process does weed out most of the obvious problems, but the samples are limited. They have to be to get through the process, and this is going to only get worse as the system tries harder to ensure zero-risk. This means that when the drug in question hits a larger sample of population, things are going to pop up. That is a statistical certainty upon which you can bank. You also need to factor in effects that will show up over time, for there are things that may not show up until you do a large sample over a 20-30 year time-frame. Will they be statistically significant? Hopefully not, but yet and still they will be there. Covering against them costs yet more money. I am not even going to go into production, marketing, delivery, and other things, for the point is made.

The net result is that you have to spend towards $1 billion per each variant of a major drug to get it to market. Some are going to cost more, and some may cost much less, but yet and still it is not pocket change. It is a massive undertaking of time and money.

Now, there is one more cost to factor in to the equation: the human cost. While the drugs are in development and then clinical trials, they are not available to those that need them most. There is a drug that may cure your significant other, keep them alive and enjoying life. What if they can’t get that drug, but are told that they must wait until all the hoops are jumped, paperwork filed, and as close to zero-risk to them is assured. There are people that face that every day. The government is not going to let them take it until procedures are complete, and the companies can’t afford to let them take it because even if they die from something else, it still is a negative impact on the drug and the drug studies. Even if it gives your SO months of living, the fact that your SO died can prevent the drug from reaching the market. All of the money put in by investors and the companies involved then goes down the toilet.

That, in a very rough and incomplete nutshell, is the system we have. That it works is nothing short of miraculous; that it could be better is beyond doubt. Just how it should work better is the question. There are those who argue that it should move even more to the zero-risk option, ignoring the fact that it will also effectively end pharmaceutical development in the United States. There are those who argue that there should be no approval process, also ignoring the fact that it would effectively destroy pharmaceutical development in the United States. What we need is an improved process that helps guarantee safety to a reasonable degree, and, more importantly, gives patients the option of taking risks. Imagine if you will, that there was a drug that could deal with a particular terminal illness and let you live (as opposed to existing). This drug, however, has some side effects or the potential for serious side effects later in life. Under current rules of approval, and more importantly the rules of litigation, you don’t have the option of taking it. I would like to have the option of working with my doctor to decide if I wanted to take it even knowing the side effects.

The keys to this are dealing with the litigation issues, the regulatory hurdles, and public education. It would demand both an informed user and an informed producer, but would the results not be worth it? Wouldn’t it be great if we could get the system so that more small companies (who provide the greatest amount of innovation and economic growth) could do this themselves, and have the chance to become big companies/corporations if they so desire? Wouldn’t it be great if we could get many more effective and safe drugs to market sooner, or to the patients who need them even as the process grinds on?

Also, as a final bit of food for thought, when you scream next time at the cost of drugs, take a breath and think instead. Look at the total cost of what went into that drug, and you may not scream as much. Think about the drugs that deal with diseases that are nasty, but few people have, and how much it costs to develop them. Then think a bit about how companies can make that money back (plus a bit for themselves), for they sure can’t do it by charging the real cost of the medicine to such a small group. Ever stop to think that the reason a “simple” drug used by so many costs so much might just be so that somebody somewhere with a rare disease can be treated, rather than it just being thievery on the part of the drug company?

The system isn’t perfect, nor any of the players. There is blame to go around, and praise too. For the miracle is that the system works at all.

LW

No More Long John Silver's

Go read this story in which a manager who had valid fears for his life and the lives of his employees was fired. Essentially, he was fired for not letting the perps kill them all during a robbery. Story courtesy of Spoons. I can guarantee you that I have no plans to ever eat at any of their restaurants ever again.

LW

If, Like Me, You Take Vioxx

Go here for some important information. If the server is swamped, you can get some coverage here though I suspect coverage here will be some of the best around. Talk to your doctor, and to your pharmacist. Calmly.

LW

PS: What has me PO'd right now is not that the suspected link is confirmed, or even that it is now off the market. It is that I just spent $100 yesterday refilling the prescription, and said prescription can't be returned.

Also, for good medical coverage I am going to Galen to see what he says, and to make use of the wonderful healthcare blogroll he has up.

UPDATE: A WWW Site has been established that includes instructions on how to get a refund on unused Vioxx.

Alternatives To PayPal

For a number of reasons, I am looking into alternatives to PayPal. Not the least of these is that I disagree with the new "fine" policy and what lies behind it. I think a good dose of competition will be good for the market, and me. That said, however, I need something that BlogAds, GoogleAds, CafePress, and others will not have too much heartburn with. I've come across a number of alternatives, but would love to hear from people who have actually used them. Anything?

LW

Russian Food In Marietta

Want some good "home style" Russian food? Live in the Atlanta area? Then be sure to check out Olga's Porch at 3101 Roswell Road in Marietta. Fancy? Not really, except for dessert. It is, however, good solid home-style food that I plan to explore further. The lunch special I had was $6.99 and included some good borsh and delicious goulash: a very solid and tasty meal. The napoleon-style cake I had for dessert (not included in lunch special) was huge and a delight. I do plan on going back, for they also have pelmeni, basturma, and other delights. This is a place well worth checking out.

LW

Daily Pundit A Hate Site?

Apparently, reminding people that terrorists attacked the U.S. on 9-11 is a hate crime or otherwise offensive according to the good folks at PayPal. The real problem here is that they don't appear to to tell him what is objectionable on his site. I am writing them to inquire of it, and suggest you check this out too. Link courtesy of InstaPundit.

LW

Letter sent:   Sirs,

I am writing to inquire why you have decided that Bill Quick's Daily Pundit site (http://www.dailypundit.com/) is a hate site and otherwise in violation of your policies? Your letter to him, as published by him, has no specifics whatsoever on what you deem improper or offensive. How is he to know what to correct if you can not or will not provide that information? As a private company, you do have the right to do business as you see fit, but to act in such an apparent arbitrary and capricious manner does not appear to be good business in any sense of the word. Your full and complete explanation would be most helpful, both to myself for my site and to any and all who would consider doing business with you.

Laughing Wolf
http://laughingwolf.net

Note that there is no easy way to contact PayPal through their site nor do they provide direct e-mail contact that I can find. I used PR and admin to see if either gets through.

Quick Note On Subaru Service

Okay, things are hectic and I am on the road a good bit right now. Yesterday, Pups had run a bit rough, but not too bad, so figured maybe some bad fuel. Given Frances, water in some of the gas I bought out on the road was not unlikely. This morning, things seemed better, then they got worse. Much worse, and it was clear that one or more cylinders were not firing and that there could be worse problems. Thank goodness for cell phones, as I was able to locate the Subaru dealer closest to where I was and managed to make it there without a tow. Hook up the computer, and do some checking, and what do we find? Spark plug wires in such bad shape that they are arcing within the engine compartment. Wheeeeee. What fun. Especially since not all that long ago I paid for the super duper 50,000 mile service at Madison Square Subaru in Huntsville, where I had the distinct impression they had changed the plugs, checked or changed the wires, etc. For what that service cost, they sure should have changed those wires. As it is, I can't be sure the plugs were changed and the wires sure as heck were bad. In for a penny, in for a pound, I had a full diagnostic run, the oil changed, and we got the worst of the wires changed out. They did not have enough to do both sets, so I went ahead and paid for the second pair which they have now ordered, and when I am back by there in about 10 days they are going to install them for me. I have also decided that Pups will never again go for service at Madison Square Subaru.

Yet, keeping in mind the lessons of the other day, I did not let it get me down. There being nothing I could do whilst waiting, I got directions to a nearby restaurant within easy walking distance and enjoyed a book and some fair fried oysters. I also changed my plans and ended up going to an Apple store and getting some help with a problem. Net result, my computer is now reading my digital videocamera. Finished up everything I needed to do, and am now relaxing a bit. Who knows, I may even go see a movie tonight, and I hope that all of you will take a moment to appreciate the day.

LW

Welcome Back Life, Liberty, Etc.

Yes, you see right over there on the right. Pete and the crew at Life, Liberty, Etc. made it out over the wall and escaped to Texas from the People's Republic of Kalifornia. Lots of neat stuff, and I can testify that the quality of the T-shirts and pins is good. So, go check them out and please be sure to tell them that I sent you.

LW

Customer Service: IDT, Knology, Cleaners, Lawyers, and Lessons For The Day

The day has gotten off to a weird start, but one that is good if quite different. Much of what has made it weird has to do with customer service of various types, and that includes me.

Follow The Scent! »

Overheard At Barnes & Noble

Yesterday, I had to go look for some books for business, and thought to take the time to try and find a few others I want to read. As I was browsing around the customer service center at the nearby Barnes and Noble, I was treated to a very interesting conversation by two of the staff. These two were apparently tired of questions and accusations about Unfit for Command and related books. This turned into a screed of sorts about books, booksellers, plots by “millionaire Republican publishers” and a general teardown of customers. It is one thing to make fun of customers in private, but to do so loudly in front of other customers is more than a bit rude – and stupid. Later, I approached one of them to ask for a trashcan in which to dispose of my finished coffee, and thought I was going to have to produce my papers. Attitude to spare. Since I don’t have cash to spare, and hate to think what was said about a customer who dared ask for the ability to throw something away, I think I will do most of my book shopping elsewhere. Think there is another B&N closer to my cousin’s, maybe there. Maybe the competition. Anywhere without the attitude.

LW

As Long As I Am On Products & Service This Morning

I had a very interesting experience whilst amidst the move. The final night in Madison saw me going to a hotel to sleep since there was no blanket or other such at the apartment. I went to a hotel where I have stayed before, and was asked by the clerk to sign what appeared to be a blank credit card receipt. He said that it was simply a pre-authorization and was done all the time at hotels. I happen to be/have been a platinum-level frequent traveler/stayer and have never signed anything like that before. I have signed agreements saying that I would pay, I have signed pre-authorizations with the amount filled in, but have never signed a blank one. I don’t like pigs-in-a-poke, which is why the word bunco comes to mind when I hear about the super-secret anti-terrorism plan Kerry has to which he will give us the secret decoder rings once we have given him the keys to 1600 Pennsylvania. I told the clerk I would sign when an amount was put in, not before. His story then changed to that is just the way they do it there. I said again that I would sign when an amount was in. He got very offended, and I got mad enough to tell him that if any charge showed up on my account the law would be summoned on him. He did not like that, and I took my business to the Ramada across the road. Just a word of advice, never sign any blank credit card receipt, pre-authorization or no.

LW

Subway Sandwich Shops

I first saw this story over at Tammi’s, but this morning it has taken an even worse twist. Yes, they did drop the fat Statue of Liberty, but have reportedly replaced it with a 9-11 reference. That’s right, a 9-11 reference with a hamburger as the terrorist of the piece. If I find out this is true, I will not only never eat at Subway again, I will try to find any other corporate holdings they have, or in which they have a significant stake, and go after them as well. I hope that you will as well.

LW

A Store Not Deserving Business

To say that I am enjoying the variety of stores and products available to me in Atlanta is an understatement. I’ve had to look for a new folding bookcase, and discovered that there are no Oak Express stores here. So, I went around yesterday afternoon shopping and while I found one, I also found a store that will never get my business.

American Signature Home has a prominent sign on its doors indicating that no weapons or any type, but particularly firearms are to be brought inside. No exceptions for law enforcement or legal carry, simply no weapons. There is some PC at the bottom that I translate as follows: “Welcome Perp! We have tried our best to arrange a nice selection of victims for you. Please feel free to come in and assault, rape, rob, and murder our customers and employees, who have been deprived of any means of resistance or are otherwise not allowed to fight back.” Now, they do have the right to do this, though I have found through the years that those who take this approach most often do so because they know what they would do with weapons. They do have the right to deny the rights of citizenship within their doors. I also have the right not to give my time or money to any store that so gleefully advertises me as the victim du jour.

LW

Knology Blows

Here I am moving, I am tired, and headed off to sleep. What happens next? I get a telemarketing call from Knology, wanting to upgrade the account I’ve cancelled. He does not want to hang up, so I do it for him. I call Knology and go through the voice mail from heck, get a rep who had a lot of trouble finding my records and then didn’t seem to understand the problem – the account was not yet cancelled, why was I calling? I explained, and also had her tell Sales – that being who she said was responsible – that if I had any choice, I will go with the competition and that it will be a cold day before I go with Knology again. Between this and that irredeemable screw-up during Reagan’s funeral that they tried to blame on “the government” I have had it with them. I do not recommend their service, especially since apparently having an account makes you fair game for calls at odd hours.

LW

Barnes & Noble Coffee Shop On University

Okay, I refer a lot to my coffee pushers and the coffee place, but have never named them. A good part of this is because I consider them more than a mere provider or restaurant, friends if you will. I tend not to name friends and others here for a variety of reasons, but this morning I was given blessings by Don, the manager, to name names. Okay, it is done and I urge all of you to go by there as they will take care of you and do right by you. They also happen to do good espresso and such, and even open up at 0800 now to accomodate their patrons. Highly recommended.

LW

Product Review: Father’s Country Bacon

On a recent trip, the English Werewolf, the Borzoi, and I were introduced to some truly wonderful bacon, produced on a farm in Kentucky. Now, it was pricy and I was a bit skeptical, but I am so glad I bought that first pack. It is the best bacon I have put in my mouth in quite some time, if not ever. While I was a bit disappointed in their smoked cheese (I thought I was buying a chunk, not slices), their bacons are great. To get the best price per pound, I bought an entire slab and you can easily store it and slice it by hand. Go check them out, and I think you will be glad you did.

LW

Ceramic Brake Pads, Part II

Well, Pups now has new brakes to go with her new shoes, courtesy of the online yard sale. A victim, er, I mean customer came by to pick up their items and even while saying it was a mistake looked through everything, including some items not yet out. They left. To go to the bank, and when they had returned and then left again, Pups and I celebrated the unexpected windfall by getting the new brakes.

As it turned out, they don’t make ceramic pads for the rear brakes, so they are only on the front. For the next few days I am being very gentle with them so that we can work the system, check it out, and then do any tweaking necessary. So far, it does not look like any will be needed, but it is best to be safe about such things. So far, I can really tell that the work was done – much better. Once they are broken in and I have the chance to really use them, I will report back and I will also over time try to detail how well they do and how long they truly last. For now, all is good. What will matter is performance over time, and that will remain to be seen.

LW

AT&T: The Rules Don’t Apply To Us

After the adventures of the morning, a nice lunch with Stacy of Synectics, and some actual productive work, I was finally getting to relax in my chair when there is a pounding on the door. Outside is a male in an AT&T shirt, AT&T pants, with AT&T id about his neck, wanting to talk to me about rates. I am his customer and he wants to save me money. Now, I dropped AT&T for cause a while back and point this out. I ask the person what they are doing, and I again get the “you are my customer and I am here to save you money” line. He is NOT here soliciting, almost angry at the suggestion, at which point I have had enough. I am not a customer, you are here soliciting, and you are doing so in violation of complex policy posted at every entrance. The response is something to the effect that he is AT&T and here to save me money. My response is to call the office, and upon being told that I am going to report him to the office for violation of said policy, he tells me “You do what you gotta do”, wheels, and flees. I do indeed call the office, but imagine he is long gone given his exit. I call AT&T and they do admit, amidst much hedging and careful language, that they are sending people out like this. I admit that this type of crap is one reason that I will never again give them business if I have ANY choice in the matter.

LW

Review: Harry Potter

I will do no spoilers here, but will say I enjoyed it very much. Many good lines, my favorite so far is “Didn’t think of that. Right. Run!” The performances were quite good, and the cast – particularly the young cast – just keep getting better and better. The debates over which of the films is the best can keep, what matters now is that it is a film well worth seeing.

LW

Go Buy Steve’s Book

The inimitable Steve at Hog On Ice/Little Tiny Lies has completed his cookbook, the illustrious Chris Muir has done the cover art, and it now available for purchase. Go buy a copy right now.

LW

New Mousepad: Promise

The B-17 909 is gone, and a new mousepad is up: Promise.

This is about all that remained of the town of Gallatin, Montana, a few years ago. It had all the promise in the world, but died out. Yet, it lives on as the capital of the North American Confederation in a good book, and the town still has all the promise in the world. As with the 909, I have limited edition prints also available for $25.00 each (standard shipping included).

LW

Mousepad And More

Well, I am just going to troll the bait a bit more, and show you this week’s mousepad. This will be around until next Monday, when it will be replaced by a new design.

Go Here to get this and all the latest and greatest in mugs, shirts, and more. If you are interested in a signed/numbered limited edition 11x14 of this shot, drop me a line.

Or most of the latest and greatest, as loyal advertiser Life, Liberty, Etc. has some new products here, and here. Go on, hit the button on the right and go check them out.

New Shoes For Pups and Me

Yes, I know the grammar is off, but the scansion isn’t. Pups, my Subaru sedan, is a very happy pup right now. Some of the personal business allowed me to not merely keep a roof over my head a while longer, but to take care of some things that needed to be done a while back.

One thing was some new shoes and maintenance on Pups. The tires very much needed replacing, and other things were coming due. The tires and alignment of all four wheels are now taken care of, with a new set of Yokohama AS430 V-rated tires, which I am told are actually better than the AS550’s I had been looking at getting. I went to get them, NTB only had three, so sold me the 430s with better tread rating and higher cost, for the same price as I had been quoted on the 550s and honored my coupon as well. The difference with new tires, and all four tires newly aligned as well, is tremendous. A balanced and aligned car is like a perfectly trimmed plane: you almost literally think the command and have it happen. There may be a slight pull to the right, but need to do some more road tests to be sure of things. Pups also got a bath at the spa yesterday, since I can’t do things like that right now. Much better, though it does show the damage done to the paint last year when Pups got sprayed by someone pressure washing a house. Even with a quick bath, the bleach did nasty things to the paint on the driver’s side, but the only solution is to take the entire car down to bare metal, reprime, and repaint (and replace all the carpet inside as well, as it was damaged too). That is several thousand I don’t have, so will have to wait. The Yokohama tires come with good ratings and reviews, and the previous set of performance tires I had from them lasted 50,000 miles and were only rated for 30,000. I have had very good service from them, and do recommend them.

I also got new shoes for me. I had managed to break the spine of my gym shoes, so needed new ones. The ones I did have apparently are being phased out, and the new, much more expensive shoes don’t have all the anti-roll technology and such. Being Scot, I refuse to pay more than a hundred dollars for a pair of shoes that are not guaranteed to last more than three months. The solution, however, is that the New Balance I wear everyday have most or all of the same anti-roll and other features, and were on sale so that I got two pair for less than the cost of one pair of the “new” shoes.

Things are looking up. I have to get some new inserts for the shoes, and Pups has to go into the dealer next week for service. Nice to be able to finally do this, for the both of us.

LW

Book Review: Give Me A Break

A very kind fellow blogger and reader sent me a copy of John Stossel’s book to peruse during my recovery. I waited until after I was no longer the great stoned wolf to do so, and am glad I did. The book is a must read for any interested in Old Media, bias, and more. Mr. Stossel details his history well, and the tale of his “conversion” is a good one. He raises many points that are well worth pondering, and has turned me on to some new reading material in the process. The book is an easy read, and enjoyable so long as you keep your blood pressure in check, and there are many points where it will rise in any thinking person. It is well worth the time to read, and I hope you will do so.

LW

Go Check Out The Relaunch Of Animotions

I had wondered what was keeping Ironbear so tied up lately, and now I know. He has been busy with the revamp and relaunch of Animotions, a Comics, Gaming, and 3-D Industry web site. What I have seen of it looks interesting and well done; however, I invite you to go check it out for yourself and provide feedback/constructive criticism so that the site can continue to improve.

LW

Good News To Start The Week

My friend Waldo let me know that Farscape will be making at least a limited return to television. Pity that it is not more, yet my hope is that the response will be such that Henson can find someone to pick it up and run with it, on television or on the big screen.

LW

A Reminder On Consumer Affairs

Be sure that what you have is what you really think you have. Last September, I changed over to T-Mobile service on my cell phone and have generally been happy with it. The coverage area is not nearly as good as some, but the service I have gotten, both general and customer has been fairly good. Until yesterday, that is.

Follow The Scent! »

Shoulder Surgery: The Paperwork Begins

If there is anything you can do today that does not require paperwork, I would love to know what it is. When dealing with doctors and insurance companies, paperwork is a must and I have found it pays to be proactive. This comes from dealing with the multitude of insurance paperwork that came with my mother’s cancer and my father’s care in his final days.

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Shoulder Surgery, Whine 1

Well, since last week I’ve changed my mind about a few things, but I do want to blog the process as well as the surgery. This is, in many ways, no different from any other consumer product about which I have written, and it may be that my experiences with doctors, facilities, insurance companies and the like will assist you. After all, you do have choices on each, and what I go through can help you decide on your choices.

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Food For The Ears, Tartan Style

Okay, I started my day with a nice cuppa of Scottish breakfast tea, but I think I am going to start feeding my ears here soon. Two good treats for the ear on Tartan day are Heather Alexander and Loreena McKinnet. Go treat yourself and listen to these two fine musicians. May scare the neighbors a bit by setting Heather's March of Cambreadth on repeat for a while. Also, check out the older offerings by Seven Nations.

LW

Book Review: Firework

First up, a disclaimer in the interest of fairness: the author of this book is my cousin. Keep that in mind as you read. Firework discusses how Stuart D. Kent became a firefighter, and how he was moved to share his experiences with the world.

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Passion, Temptation, And More

I have now seen Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ, so as to make up my own mind about it. There are many thoughts running through my mind, but the whole is not a positive. I am pleased to report that to me, it was not anti-Semitic. Anti-authoritarian, anti-politician, anti-barbarian, and anti-ignorance did come through, but much more came with it that kept it from being the movie I feel it could have been.

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Quality Check: Life, Liberty, Etc.

What can I say, I had to get one of those shirts. I also got the lapel pin, and will be wearing it. Will let you know more about the shirt after a few washings, but right now I am most pleased with what I got from them. Hit the button, check them out, and see about picking up a few things from them. I really would like to keep them around…

LW

Quality Check: Laughing Wolf Shop

I ordered a couple of things from Café Press to check the quality, and am happy with what I got. Give me a few washings of the mug and shirt, and I will have more to say, but things look good so far. I hope you might try them out. Also, I am working on a couple of surprises for you. Nope, none of the work I was involved with at Playboy when I interned there, but maybe something even better, and PG rated as well. :)

LW

Russian National Ballet: Don Quixote

Wow. Oh Wow. If this group is coming anywhere near you, as in within 200 miles, don’t walk but run to get tickets. For more information on the company, go here.

The evening began a bit early, since I decided to beat the traffic and crowds and go down early. This also gave me a chance to walk downtown and hunt for some new restaurants/nightlife I had heard about. Didn’t find what I was seeking, but did find a new bistro that does wonderful tempura mushrooms. As it turned out, my favorite wine pusher wholesaler was there pushing some wares, so I found myself with a nice glass of Haven to try while enjoying my enoki, shitake, crimini, and other assorted fungi. Both wine and fungi were delicious and I am going to have to see about checking out that Haven a bit more.

I finished my dinner with enough time to walk back, put my book in the car, and take care of other necessities before entering the performance hall. The hall is an odd design on seating, since the only entry are wall aisles – no side or center aisle(s). Fortunately, I was to one side so this was not a difficulty. As it turns out, the center (choice) seats went very early. Like most theatre (as in play/playhouse) seats, they are designed for a generation or two back, so I and the people on either side of me had to sit a bit sideways in the seats to keep our shoulders from overlapping too badly.

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Restaurant Review: Sushi Boat

The days being quite hectic right now with taxes, deadlines, and such, I decided to splurge a bit yesterday and try one of the four “new” sushi restaurants in the area. Time being what it was, I decided to try the Sushi Boat here in Madison, not quite five minutes from the lair.

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That Reminds Me: Together Dating VIP Membership For Sale

If you are interested, you can search the site for previous posts on them, but if you might be interested in a VIP membership with Together Dating, do I have a deal for you. A very good deal at about 38 percent of the full cost. Drop me a line.

LW

Palm Back In Action

Well, I now have my Palm m515 back in operation after a lengthy absence. It took some work, but it was done. To my surprise, given previous experience with Palm tech support, the e-mail support did get the trick done even though it took a few days. I have learned several lessons, the main one being that I will do about anything to keep the bloody battery from going dead ever again, since that seemed to throw the whole Palm system into a major tizzy.

Now to go deal with a USB hub that appears to be going south…

LW

Heat Wraps Are Your Friend

At least they are if you have shoulder injuries. The weekend did not go as planned, as I apparently slept wrong on an injured shoulder. This meant that I was in discomfort and pain for the first time in almost two months. While getting advice from a medical friend, who also has had shoulder problems, I was reminded of the ThermaCare HeatWraps.

Trust me when I say they help. When percocet and other drugs do nothing, the wraps help. My only gripe with them right now is that I wish the neck/arm wraps were larger, and I am seriously considering going and buying a box of the PMS wraps because they are larger. One in front, one in back. I credit the wraps, along with a combination of chemical help, with allowing me to actually sleep last night. They have also made the day tolerable and allowed me to actually use and move my arm.

Recommended.

LW

Radio Notes

Normally, when I drive on a long trip I use the I-Pod and listen to things I like. Part of this is because Huntsville is not exactly a hotbed of new or alternative music and the radio selections are a bit limited. Part is because I hate having to fiddle with the radio, especially in heavy traffic, where I prefer to have my head out of the cockpit and my hands on stick, chaff, and the weapons panel.

This time, I decided to listen to the radio once I was in Atlanta and on the drive back. I made a number of discoveries, including the fact that the Atlanta market has done a fruit-basket-turnover. The oldies station is now.. Something, not sure what; the classic station is now animal tails stomped at random from what I heard; the middle-of-the-road station is now classics; and, at that point I just settled for what I could get that didn’t make me howl in pain or wallow in nostalgia.

Coming back through Chattanooga, however, brought a huge and pleasant surprise. The rock station there has, for every day since 9-11, played the national anthem at noon. They pledge to continue this as a salute to those lost, and to those now defending our nation. The rockers apparently love it, and demand it. Makes you proud to be an American, and in the South where most people don’t have a problem showing the flag, pledging allegiance, and stating that they are proud to be an American -- no matter what they listen to or what political views they hold.

LW

RoTK

I am not going to spoil this, but all I can say is: GO! Go see it on the big screen, with the best sound system around. There is no way to be faithful to the books, but they were as faithful to the spirit of the books as it was humanly possible to be. The cinematography was great; the sound was great; set design was great; and the special effects were extremely well done. More than once I had the jarring effect of being yanked back into the theatre from total immersion in the movie, by something in the theatre. I did not move much in my seat at all, no squirming, because it was so easy to get into the movie and stay in the movie. Helps that the seats were not bad at all, though I wish it had been a recliner theatre…

The acting was superb as well, and I agree with those saying that this was Sean Astin’s movie. He walked away with it, though a couple of others gave him a good run for it. There should be some acting awards in Mr. Astin’s future for his work in this film.

It was a three tissue movie, though, so be warned. My only other advice is don’t drink anything for an hour or two beforehand, and de-tank about five minutes before the movie starts, and don’t drink until the end of the movie. Then, you might just make it. As it was, I opted to skip the very last of the credits in order to move in an orderly fashion to the facilities.

Do not miss this on the big screen.

LW

Update: Not really a complaint, as it was okay, but I tend to agree with Ith on this one point. Anne Lenox was okay, in fact much better than I expected, but she really wasn't the right person to sing the song. I would love to hear Loreena McKinnet sing it...

Some Businesses Get It

My Breitling died. We are pretty sure it is just the battery needing replacement, but it quit without warning or signal. Even a battery replacement has to go back to Breitling for work, but most especially one where there is any concern. Petty point, but I would live without the chocolates they send at Christmas if they would do free battery replacement over my lifetime.

Yet, in proof that some businesses get it, my watch dealer is taking care of me. Since my backup watch, the one I take to high-risk areas because I won’t mind it getting stolen, also chose to go dead. I had planned on buying a cheap watch, but my dealer had other ideas. I am now wearing a loaner watch, instead of having to go buy something. Not as nice as my normal watch, but it tells the time and that is all that really counts. No fuss, no muss, no hassle: just a passable watch fitted to me in two minutes time, for use while mine is checked out and repaired. Now that is service.

LW

The Future Of Vehicle Audio

Recently, talking with the English Werewolf, I made the prediction that within two years, almost every vehicle will come with a sound system that allows for outside inputs. I-Pods and similar devices are a booming segment, and those of us with them go to great lengths to play them through our mobile audio systems.

Yet, the future is already here. While we had not seen any new cars with them, the replacement stereo system the Werewolf had just bought came with one. I may have been being pessimistic on that two year estimate for new car stereos…

LW

If Anyone Out There

Knows of anyone carrying E. Martin brandy, please be kind enough to drop me an e-mail. Since I don’t buy french anymore, I would like to get my hands on a fond childhood memory. I started drinking E. Martin when I was about six months old, on doctor prescription, because I was a “Lost Boy”-type who partied all night and slept all day. Two teaspoons of brandy in some sugar water fixed that, much to my parent’s relief and my continued enjoyment. E. Martin came from Portugal and was rated one of the finer brandies in the world, but somewhere in the 70s the importer dropped it. Anyone knowing of it, or with a suggestion of a good, affordable, brandy from here, Spain, or Portugal, please do drop me a line.

LW

About Frelling Time!

This week’s TV Guide reports that filming is getting ready to start on a Farscape miniseries that will help tie up loose ends – and I fervently hope will set the stage for movies and more. If you missed it, the show was simply the best science fiction show ever done: superb acting, writing, directing, production, and effects. Even cancelled, it continued to win awards. It died an ugly death when the show, fans, and production company got screwed over by Vivendi Universal, EM.TV, and their minion the SciFi Channel. Since it is not bloody likely that SciFi will or should air the miniseries, at least not until there have been some high-level changes there, the most likely route will be syndication. I hope they do it, do it well, and that things boom for them. I hope they make tons of money off the series, the miniseries and any movies or other events, merchandising, conventions, and more. What is more, I hope they take the spreadsheet with the figures on it and run around the offices of those who did them – and us – so badly going Nah Nah. Who, me childish and bearing grudges? Nah.

Hey, all of you involved in the shameful cancellation shenanigans: Nani Nani Boo Boo!

Bite me. The fans, and the show, win in the end. May you all get it in the end too.

-30-

Master and Commander

I have not gone to see a lot of movies of late, and had I known that Universal was involved I might have had second thoughts this time. That said, however, I am very glad I went. The acting is good, there was good cinematography, and a good story to boot. No spoilers here, but I will say that it is well worth seeing on the big screen. In fact, the story was good enough that I have bought the books and begun reading them. Usually, movies from books fail to measure up, but in this case they did such a good job with the movie that I figure the books have to be pretty good. So far, so good and I will post a review of the books once I’ve had a chance to see how they pan out.

-30-

A Quick Note To Bell South

A month ago, I switched my long distance to IDT. As a part of this, I called and had all blocks removed. I had placed said blocks to avoid being slammed.

Tonight, I get a bill from MCI because one block had not been removed. I then am told by a representative that the block had not been removed because MCI controls all blocks, not me the customer. Bull. It took almost an hour, and a lot of hassle to get that removed, and I am not a happy camper.

There is a great deal of competition for local service now, and this is a good way to ensure that I start investigating it. To tell me that a block I placed is the property of and controlled by the company that used to have my long distance account is ridiculous. I wonder what the other local service providers have to say on this subject. I think I am going to find out…

LW

Some Thoughts On The RIAA

I have been watching, reading, and trying to develop all the facts I can on the RIAA and its anti-piracy efforts. My thoughts towards the jackbooted brown-shirt wannabes are not good. I have no use for those who would attack a 12-year-old girl over “If You Are Happy and You Know It” or other ‘huge’ violators of the public good.

Yes, music piracy is a problem, but is this really the way to go about fighting it?

The tactics chosen are reprehensible, irresponsible, and will ultimately do far more damage to the music industry than anything the small-time pirates could ever dream of doing. It has also brought some light on some things that bear scrutiny before they can scurry off into the dark.

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Angel

Okay, I will avoid any spoilers so that means I am pretty much limited to saying: I LOVE IT. It had humor, tension, and a lot of wonderful surprises. This could well be the best done in quite some time, and I was not prepared to say that. I was worried about it, given all that has gone on in the Buffy/Angel universe. Also, other shows I liked have not done well in openers, and this week I was extremely dissapointed in the Third Watch premier. Angel made up for a lot of the drek that is out there, and has left me looking forward to more. No spoilers on the main page, but this could be a lot of fun.

LW

For Want of a Nail

There is much I need to get done today, and a lot of it is not getting done. I have felt a bit off, and even had to cut the time at the gym a bit short. Then again, I have found one the causes of some of the pain in my life: my shoes.

I am a creature of habit, and can and do get into ruts. One such are my tennis shoes, which I have bought for many years now without complaint. I get them, they last six months to a year, I replace them. The problem is, that this time the ol’ Reebok classics did not even make two good months.

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On A More Positive Note

I do have to say some good things about Cheeburger Cheeburger, or at least the one in Madison. The chain is something of a cross between a 50s diner and a high-end hamburger joint. The ambiance is, interesting, but not bad. The food is good. A little pricy, but worth it for a nice splurge. If you are really hungry, take the one pound burger challenge, made even more interesting by the fact that it is really 20 ounces before it hits the bun. Trust me on this, the paper towel rolls at the table are a great idea.

LW

As Long As I Am Being Slightly Snarky

It is funny that this day is coming across that way, when in fact I am fairly cheerful and happy. However, I've been meaning to post this -- just like the MCI letter -- for some time now.

If you live in, or drive through, Madison, Alabama, be aware that I have just put three of the fast food joints on Highway 20/Madison Blvd. on six month suspension. If you use them, especially if you use the drive through, triple check your order and be on the lookout for some bad attitudes.

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An Open Letter To MCI

I was a customer for several years, having gotten sucked in by a frequent flyer tie in. I stayed on for a good while, despite some issues that came up – such as the convenient issue with overseas dialing. Great for you, expensive for me, or it was until a customer service rep did the right thing with a couple of the calls.

I stayed on with you because you did not seem too bad and it was easy to do. Even when your corporation collapsed into a mire, I stayed on. Must have been those frequent flyer miles. They must have been real good.

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Author Review: Dean Ing

This one will be short and sweet: Just go read his books. Dean is best known, sometimes pigeonholed, in science fiction but he does a lot more. To be fair and honest, I am biased here as I met him many years ago when we did a panel together at a World Science Fiction Convention entitled Prophets of Dishonor. Dean was on for his book Soft Targets which could have been almost a blueprint for the Iran hostage situation, while I was on for some of my writings about the Soviet space program.

One of the many things that makes Dean different is that he backs up his technical aspects, and indeed earned his Ph.D by doing the engineering studies needed to prove a common assumption in communications theory. His works on near-term technology are spot on, and he is good at pointing out the advantages and the disadvantages to same. For anyone interested in practical survival, either for everyday disasters or those a bit beyond, check out his work as well, which I have recommended before.

His books are usually fun reads, even when as dark as some of his "spy" novels. When it comes to space technology and how to get there, you will find few better.

So go now, and find his books new or used to read. You are in for a real treat.

LW

Reader Query: Cell Phone Service

Well, this wolf is considering changing his mobile howl because of some problems with his current service. I have investigated a number of services and here is what I have found so far: Cingular seems to have the best overall coverage in the U.S., but not so great customer service; Verizon has good coverage and lousy service (only one positive report so far, though that is from my Sissie); Sprint has good service but not so great coverage; Nextel has good service but not so great coverage; T-Mobile has some good service (best I’ve talked to at any rate) but not so great coverage, yet does offer overseas compatibility, etc. The pre-pay companies I am not going to get into at all.

While I have done my research, I would love to hear your takes on the various services, positives, negatives, etc. This will go into the data bin and be used to help me make a decision here soon.

BTW, I did go with InDesign over Quark based on comments here and elsewhere. Will let you know how it goes.

Thanks to everyone who responded publicly and privately to the previous request, and does so to this one as well. It is very much appreciated!

LW

Anyone Want A Darkroom?

No, not a place to run and hide, but an old-fashioned film processing set-up. As part of my drive to get rid of everything I have not used in the last year or so, I have one for sale that will come with a Nikon FM camera body, Omega B-66 Enlarger, EL-Nikor enlarging lens, commercial dry mount press, and a few other things. If interested, drop me a line at wolf1 at laughingwolf dot net.

LW

Television Review: MI-5

The more I see of this show, the more I like it. It has style, good acting, good plots, decent scripting -- all the things that are so often in short supply. While it definitely plays fast and loose with some things, there is at least some effort to provide some tradecraft and realism. Realistic, not really, but closer than most get. Some spoilers are included, so be warned if you go forward.

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Music Review: Seven Nations

I just realized that I failed to do a music review last Sunday, so I decided to showcase one of my all-time favorite performance bands: Seven Nations.

They have been described in many ways: Scottish Rock, Celtic Fusion, and Bagpipes Gone Wild among others. As for me, I simply call them good, and fun.

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Together Dating VIP Membership Sale

Sorry to waste more time on this, but am doing this as a shameless plug to get the sale page picked up by the spiders. Gads, that sounds like a childhood nightmare in some ways, with the spiders out to get you... :)

Together VIP Membership Sale

The design isn't much, but then I didn't plan or desire to put a lot into it.

LW

Artist Event In Huntsville

Just a reminder to anyone in the greater Huntsville/Madison Alabama metroplex that this Saturday will be the artist gallery and blood drive at Pauli's Gourmet Food Shop. The first 30 people to donate blood will be entered in a drawing for a dinner for two from Pauli's, which is no small thing. So, get out there and do the right thing by donating blood, and maybe get a tasty reward for so doing. Things crank up early, and culminate with the Saturday free wine tasting from 3-5. I will be there with prints and such for at least part of the day as things now stand.

LW

One Final Sale Note

As you may remember from this post, I was not happy in my experience with Together Dating. I remain unhappy, but have been given the option of selling my membership to another male. While I am prevented from posting prices and such, let me just say that if you live in a city serviced by them, are in good health, no convictions/legal problems, stable, etc., and want a great deal compared to what they charge for premium service, then drop me a line. I will sell my VIP membership including Personal Shopper, Pre-Approval, transferrable, resalable, and my remaining 18 introductions for a very good price.

While I am not happy, I know people who are. I also think that if you live in a city/area serviced by them, you may have a different experience. I bought this because of frequent travel to DC, and since I am not going there regularly anymore, it does complicate things. Read, study, and think. If you are interested, the price will be good.

LW

Speaking Of Selling

I did indeed join the E-bay crowd Monday, putting up limited edition photo prints and artwork for now. You can find my stuff up under the seller name blakep123, so check it out if you like. I will have a better idea of how the experiment goes next Monday.

LW

If You Are Buying Or Selling Land

Anywhere in the area of Northeast Georgia, Western South Carolina, or Western North Carolina, particularly where those three states meet, allow me to recommend Appalachia Realty and Fran Cabe in particular. Fran was recommended to me by a friend, now deceased, alas, who was like a brother, and as with most things, his recommendation was good. She helped deal with sale of some land that got quite interesting for reasons that are headed to court courtesy of some people who bulldozed three of my lots, and is currently representing me on two blocks that I have up for sale. She is good, thorough, and helps ensure that there are no problems. Check them out.

LW

MI-5

Quick review: I liked what I saw of it. Got caught up blogging and did not get to see all of it, but what I did see was good. Think I may see if A&E is going to repeat it later, and tape it. Check this show out.

LW

Wine Tasting Notes

A local fine eatery has a gourmet grocery on the side, and every Saturday they hold a free wine tasting. Free tastings are more deadly to the wallet than paid ones, but I go anyway. Today, they had a fine selection of wines for less than $10.00 that I wanted to share, along with a bit of wine news.

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Book Review: Candle, by John Barnes

A few weeks ago, I was given a good bit of assistance in my column on rational discourse by John Barnes, former professor and current author. While I think his assistance with discussion on persuasibility (which I do think is a doctrine, though he disagrees) paid off for the discussion, it also paid off for him. You see, I got curious about his writing and went and got a couple of his books.

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DVD Review: Innocent Blood

This is, in some ways, something of an oldie but it was also a goodie. I don’t think it was a huge hit at the box office, but that does not necessarily say anything bad about it. It is a movie that has traveled with me from laser disc to DVD, and was a treat when I was in bed on Thursday with the bad back. It is camp comedy in many respects, but with enough edge and an impressive array of talent.

The movie centers around a female vampire named Marie, played by Anne Pirillaud, and an undercover cop, played by Anthony LaPaglia. Ms. Pirillaud was the original La Femme Nikita in the movie, and does a delightful turn as a vampire who is picky about her food. Mr. LaPaglia plays a cop who has gone undercover to infiltrate the Mob in Pittsburg. The Mob boss is played to the hilt by Robert Loggia, and Don Rickles does an excellent turn as a nasty mob lawyer.

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Music Review: Loreena McKinnett

Okay, now she is another over there on the right, down in the music section. She is there for a reason, and it is a good one.

I first had her brought to my attention by a friend, who knew of my love for Celtic music, or music influenced by Celt. That introduction led me to a wonderful song called “All Souls Night” and from there on I was hooked.

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Music Review: Evanescence, "Fallen"

Okay, I know I am well behind the curve here, but things have been busy. Besides, I have been enjoying the CD for the last month or so in order to bring you the best review possible. Honest. (innocent look).

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Product Review: CSM Cold Creek Vineyard Chardonnay

Most chardonnays have become a large exercise in futility to me, because oak became the rage. Instead of being used to enhance the flavors of the wine, oak had to become the dominant flavor resulting in some wines that tasted of nothing else. If I had wanted to taste that much oak, I would have gone out and chewed a tree.

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Product Review: Natural Almond Dishmate™

Well, despite what some may say, I do believe in trying to be good to the Earth. As a hiker, camper, and enjoyer of the outdoors, I want to keep things green and healthy. So, when I saw Earth Friendly Products® Natural Almond Dishmate™ dish detergent at a store, I decided to give it a try. Now I can tell you, don’t bother.

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Music Review: Heather Alexander

I’ve been wanting to get more reviews and such up, so decided that is what I would do today. There is no better place to start than with the wonderful Heather Alexander.

My introduction to her came from the fiction works of John Ringo who is published by Baen Books. Actually, it came from tavern discussion generated by John and his fans. I was intrigued enough that I went to her site and ordered some of the CDs. Normally, I would not get but one to check things out, but the reaction at the tavern had been such that I decided to take the plunge.

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Product Review: Together Dating

Last fall, I decided to take the plunge and join a dating service. Based on a recommendation from two dear friends who met through the service, I decided to join Together Dating. It turns out there had been, apparently, some changes since they had been members, but I joined anyway because of the psychological testing they used to set up matches.

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Product Review: I-Pod Update

Well, I have not had time to do all I wanted with the I-Pod, but did want to let you know how things were going. I still don’t have all the freeware loaded, but will get to it soon, I hope.

What I have done is to import the songs I wanted from my CD collection. I wish I had the equipment to do the same from the LPs, but… This has taken some time, since with the exception of the classical albums I have been pulling individual songs. The result is that I have what I consider to be the best of the various CDs on the computer. To date, I have some 739 songs, 2.4 days worth of music, taking up a grand total of 3.93 gigabytes on my drive and I-Pod.

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Music Review: Talitha MacKenzie

Okay, I admit I have a thing for female vocalists and/or performers. I am biased and I cheerfully admit it, so if you don’t like it, bite me. Borzoi, that does not mean you!

A delightful surprise I found in the music library of late is the album Solas by Talitha MacKenzie. The vocals are good and strong, and the music captivating. This is made even more so by the fact that most or all of the lyrics are in Gaelic. While I don’t understand Gaelic all that well, it really doesn’t matter as you get lost in the spell the singer weaves with voice and music.

While her official site appears to be down, you can get some more information at Shanachie Entertainment.

So, go check her out and see what you think.

-30-

Book Review: Dereliction of Duty

The Clinton “legacy” that Mr. Clinton is reported to have worried about so much, is quite likely not to be what was desired. As more and more comes out about the Clinton White House, it is clearer and clearer that there were some rather severe problems.

How then does one explain some of the popularity polls? Easy, make the distinction made by Lt. Col. Robert Patterson, who was an Air Force military aide to the President. In it, he makes early and often a clear distinction between the man, who was quite personable, and the President, who left much to be desired from Patterson’s viewpoint.

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Waldo, This Is All Your Fault!

Well, I got a check in the mail today and I did what any person would do: I immediately went and blew part of it on a toy. Now, I started to get a toy for the FN or some such, but a recent visitor had shown me their I-Pod and what all it could do. It is more than music, or can be, and the net result was that I wanted to get one and play with it.

So, I have. I will be writing more about it in the days ahead, as I test and use it. What I learn I will share. In other words, it won’t be just weapons and the like that I try and report about. Who knows where it will all lead? All I know for now is that I will be busy for a while setting up some music and figuring things out.