A-List: New York gives D-List performances

As one Facebook friend of mine said, "That show set gay rights back 50 years. It shows that gays are ignorant, selfish, pretty, cunty fags." Well I don't know that I'd quite put it that way, ouch. But he makes a valid point. The show is about 5 homosexuals living in New York, living the "A-List" lifestyle. Although not all of them deserve to be on that list, others are doing great for themselves. Let's introduce the men, shall we?

Reichen: This guy is a douche bag in every sense of the word. He obviously likes to keep up his appearance. He's constantly working out on the show. It's just too bad there's nothing he can do about his gaunt face. Reichen is dating Rodiney, a Brazilian model he met while in Miami. He brought Rodiney with him to New York and pretty much allowed him to live there for free, then pretty much had the audacity to throw it in his face. First of all, it was Reichen who brought Rodiney to NY, and made it seem ok that he wasn't working. Reichen was best known for two things. He was the winner on The Amazing Race, season 4 and he dated singer Lance Bass. He was a model and jewelry designer, and actor, although his stint on a gay Broadway musical may cast doubts on the latter. He's a total player, and it shows throughout the show as he flirts with any and every guy that crosses his path. But here's the best part...the asshole seems to have a different explanation when it comes to each of his friends, all so that they don't look at him as the douche bag that he really is. Well luckily, audiences aren't really tuning in to see him every week.

Derek: This guy is a former model, turned agent. He's sort of the pretty boy of the group, but totally high maintenance. His biggest enemy on the show is the immature and wannabe Austin. Derek makes his distaste for Austin very apparent throughout the show, but Derek's got a few things to learn himself. Derek is 27 and claims he's ready to settle down and find Mr. Right. Only problem is, he's not very experienced in the matter. In the latest episode, he had dinner with a man he had previously met named Roberto, ten years his senior. So the two had known each other for what seemed like maybe a couple of weeks, if that, and Derek tells Roberto that he wants the him to meet his mother. WhoTF does that??? That's just relationship suicide! You don't introduce someone you just met to your parents. It's my opinion that you first have to really know someone before you try and get your family to know them. Derek, get a clue!

Mike: Mr. Ruiz doesn't get as much airtime as the other guys. Then again, his life isn't as dramatic as the other guys either. Mike is probably one of the most likable guys on the show because you don't get to see very much of his personal life. He's a famous photographer who has photographed such people as Margaret Cho to Betty White to Zac Effron. He's also directed music videos for Kelly Rowland, Jody Watley and Kristine W. He's seems like a great all-around guy...what else is there to say?

Austin: This kid's claim to fame was his short-lived relationship with designer Marc Jacobs. He was a former model who happened to catch the famous designer's eye, and just as quickly, ended up throwing the kid out to the curb. Austin returned to NY to try to return to the modeling scene, but agents seem to think he's too fat. So in the meantime he decides to make everyone's life a nightmare. He's the kind of kid who thinks he's got everything going for him because he's much younger than the others. The truth is, nobody likes him...well except for Reichen, but we've already discussed that whore.

And finally my favorite of them all...

Ryan: This guy is a stylist with his own salon. I think what makes Ryan stand out to me most is that he's everyone's friend, and he's constantly consoling everyone to get the dish on everyone else. He's so fun to watch. On several occasions, he had invited Austin out to see if there was any way he could help him with his own connections. He would take these opportunities to find out what Austin had to say about Reichen (the two had a past), and how he felt about Derek (whom Austin has openly admitted to hating). Ryan's dramatic expressions will have you rolling on the floor laughing! He's always so calm about everything, but he's clever with how he goes about things. Ryan's assistant, TJ, is just as flaming as the red hair on his head. TJ seems to have no morals, but he can be fun to watch for a laugh or two. I just think it's great that Ryan has a little sidekick.

Watch new episodes of the A-List: New York every Monday night at 9pm on Logo. It's the cattiest, bitchiest, and most scandalous one hour on tv that you'll never get back! It also shows that there are bitchier queens out there than the ones you know personally.

Halloween

Since when did throwing on a pair of wings and walking around in your underwear become such a popular Halloween costume. Last night I witnessed some of the worst and some of the best costumes I had seen in a long time....ok, well maybe since last year, but you get the point. I'm not going to say I went all out this year, because I didn't. But at least I didn't just sport some wings and call it a night!

Highlights:

There were a couple of really impressive costumes, but it was nothing a few dollars couldn't get anyone. I saw one guy dressed as the Mad Hatter from the most recent Alice in Wonderland. I also saw one really cute Dorothy (Wizard of Oz), but I had also seen that one at a party earlier in the month. I think Lady Gaga and The Jersey Shore characters were very abundant this year. I'm not sure that I saw a lot of originality, but I did see a lot of campy fun. Wait...I take that back. OMG...one guy was dressed as Mike Yuchnitz (the guy accused of allegedly hiring someone to kill his wife). It was CLASSIC!!!

Downfalls:

One guy strutted around in a pair of wings and his underwear. There was nothing exciting and definitely not original about it. I also seemed to see about two or three other guys with just wings. WHAT'S WITH THE WINGS??? Seriously.

Original or not, I have to give props to anyone who dressed up. I think Halloween can be really fun. It's really one of the only nights of the year you can leave your house dressed like anything, and be accepting of laughs. So whether your costume rocked or just plain sucked, give yourself a pat on the back for at least having the nerve to go out in public that way.

Obesity Wars!

Why is it all about, "she's making me fat," or "he's making me fat," or "they're making me fat?" Why can't everyone take the blame for making "themselves" fat? As I was sitting down and watching an MSNBC segment on the McDonald's fast-food empire, Carl Quintanilla starts questioning some of the big wigs behind this conglomerate, almost in an accusatory manner, about their role in making Americans obese.

Why are People so lazy as to blame someone else for their bad habits? Yes, eating unhealthy is a bad habit, you dumb Americans. Eating a Quarter Pounder with cheese, an order of large fries and a large Coke, will indeed make you fat when eaten on a regular basis. But don't blame the golden arches for your negligence. I know they can be hypnotizing, especially when you're driving down the highway, and you see them from a quarter mile away, and you're just so hungry.

No one is putting a gun to your head and telling you to stop at McDonalds. No one is ramming that Big Mac down your mouth. And they're not even giving you the food for free. You're the one that's making the choice to pay for it. You're the one who's making the choice to eat there. And you're the one who's made the unhealthy decision to eat this way.

I mean, seriously, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that burgers and fries and shakes are not healthy, and could lead to health problems down the road. So the chain continues to be the victim of lawsuits and bad practice claims when it comes to selling food. I don't see why they should be required to change anything about their menus when it's what they're known for. If you want burgers and fries in a hurry, go to McDonald's. If you want something healthy and nutritious, go somewhere else, you bunch of idiots! Seriously!!!

Until then, stop complaining and stop blaming others for your own actions. Maybe parents don't mean to do it. They don't mean to feed their kids so unhealthy all the time. And I'm sure some parents are just super busy and need a quick solution to dinner, hence the drive through window, which seems to work wonders for the parent-on-the-go. But again, you can't blame the restaurants for your actions.

Empress Hotel

I have to give props where props are due. This is definitely for the staff at a not quite so cozy hotel in the Big Easy, or New Orleans if you will. Now I'm going to admit, this is definitely not my first choice (and probably not yours either) in where to stay when in NOLA.

I have to say, I didn't exactly read the reviews beforehand, but what can I say...it was a last minute thing. Upon my arrival, my jaw almost fell to the floor. This is how stunned I was at the room! And I don't mean that in a good way. But you know what? I knew that I didn't plan on being in the room very long at all, and I would be out totally boozing it up and acting a fool, because that's what I do when I'm in New Orleans. I'm not gonna lie about that!

So back to the Empress Hotel. It wasn't the nicest looking, and even according to a friend of mine that lives there, it wasn't in the best of neighborhoods. After returning home, I FINALLY decided to check out the reviews on tripadvisor.com. Those people had no mercy for this place! And for somewhat good reason. But what were they expecting, seriously? The room was very inexpensive. And one reviewer really said what was on my mind:

"Don't worry about the neighborhood it looks worse than it is.Unlike the hotel where it looks better than it is."

Ok, so maybe some reviewers claimed it was in "the ghetto," and even my local friend claimed it was not the best of neighborhoods, but I can say this much; We were totally ok walking from the hotel to the French Quarter and even downtown...even late at night. And I'm talking about 3 and even 4am. The neighborhood to me didn't seem as bad as others on tripadvisor make it out to be. Even in passing on the sidewalk, we were greeted in that neighborhood with a friendly "hello" and a smile.

And Empress is only like 2 blocks from the French Quarter. It was an easy stroll! So now going back again to the hotel, the pictures looked ok, and yeah, the room wasn't the nicest. It kind of reminded us of the crazy, scary motel in Vacancy, starring Luke Wilson and Kate Beckinsale. The bathroom was kind of creepy, and I can honestly say I've stayed at Motel 6's that were nicer.

The staff however, were peaches and cream! They were so nice. Even after I walked in and totally went off on the lady at the front desk one night in particular. I had been drinking and was very unpleasant to her. But I apologized the next day, and she was sweet as pie after that. Then again, it's really hard to resist my charm. ;)

So to sum up, here's what I recommend: If you want somewhere really cheap and really close to the French Quarter, and you don't mind such a seedy place (as long as you don't plan on lounging in your room long), then this place is an easy last minute book, and the staff is friendly. If you prefer something classy, or even something with a pool (for those of you who plan on having a boring time and spending MOST of your time in a hotel), then stay within the French Quarter or even the downtown area.

I'm not sure that I would necessarily recommend this place to anyone who is used to all the fine amenities offered by the likes of The Saint Louis or Wyndham or The Shearaton. But I think the next time I'm in a crunch and need a place to possibly just sleep for a few hours, I might consider it again.

Big Lou's, Big Pizza, Big Disappointment

I've heard many big things about Big Lou's Pizzeria on San Antonio's southeast side. But nothing prepared me for the big disappointment I encountered there.

Let me first say, if you're a busy establishment, and you know the wait is going to be long, please give your patrons a heads up or add an extra 10-15 minutes just in case. When we arrived, we ordered and were told the wait would be 25 minutes. That was at 7:40 according to our receipt. We were finally seated at about 8:56, and only after we complained.

The wait time was partly the biggest let down. So I figured their pizza would redeem them. Wow, was I wrong. I'm not saying the pizza was bad. In all honesty, my first thought was: "A greasy good time in your mouth!" But then I thought it may have been the fact that we had waited so long to eat. The pizza was mediocre at best. But Big Lou's is really a unique place in San Antonio because they offer such gigantic works of pepperoni and cheese.

On a scale of 1-10, I'm going to have to give them a 3 on the wait time. I understand it's a busy place, but when you say 25 minutes, and actually wait over an hour, it's just wrong. I'm giving their pizza a rating of 6. Only because I heard such great reviews, and they didn't live up to my expectations. I'm giving them a 7 for customer service. They really looked like they were trying.

So my recommendation: If you want to try something new (as I did tonight), go for it. Stop by Big Lou's. They've got like 40" pizzas, but if you want great pizza, don't go to Big Lou's. I did like the beer. I'll give them that much credit.

Powderkids go out with a bang!

Tonight I got to watch the highly anticipated local independently made film, The Powderkids. So I have to give props to my Buddy Calvo and Perla Rivera for putting me on the list. I got there just as they started allowing people into the auditorium where the flick was playing. I was surprised as to how many people were there. It wasn't a sell-out, but unless you consider enough empty seats to make up about two and a half or three rows bad, this turnout was...how can I put this best? It was the shit.

Saw quite a few people out there that I recognized from either Facebook or just familiar hometown faces, including Maclovio Perez, spokesperson for Harlandale ISD, and former WOAI meteorologist, and Brian Alonzo from KSAT-12. And of course all most of the cast of the movie were on hand. Isn't it always strange to see someone in person and realize either how short or tall they really are?

Well if you missed the movie, let me describe it to you this way. This is the Goodfellas for the twentysomethings of today. The lead male character, Lucas, narrates most of the film, but he keeps you up to speed with who's who and how everything falls into place. I was very impressed with most of the acting as well, for people who had never acted before.

I'm not gonna lie! Not everyone was good, but hey, as I said, these guys weren't actors. Still, it was a good story, that seemed to keep the audience in a trance throughout. The film was also screened on BluRay, which made it look that much better.

Calvo wasn't kidding, for a shoestring budget, these guys really went all out and got the bang for their buck! Awesome sound, which of course was all thanks to The Living Room Studio. So the movie will go from here onto film festivals everywhere. I have a good feeling about The Powderkids. I just hope the real critics feel the same. Good luck and congrats to Calvo and his team!

Nothing kid-like about The Powderkids

By Chris Perez

Just listening to Buddy Calvo, director of the upcoming indie film The Powderkids, was like watching a kid read his Christmas list to Santa Clause. The gleam in his eye, the excitement in his voice, the motioning of his hands...Calvo couldn't wait to tell his story. And when the film is screened at Santikos Palladium theater on Thursday, the audience can witness for themselves exactly why this young director was so anxious.

Calvo and producer, Perla Rivera, are no newbies in the indie film world. In 2008, the two collaborated on Jacob, another low budget film, which like Powderkids, is based on true events.

Like Lucas, the protagonist in The Powderkids, Calvo also took a break from college to find something, another calling if you will. What he found instead were his old high school friends, pretty much doing the same ol' same ol', being wild, partying, and using drugs, but having a thrill ride of their own nonetheless.

"I went to UTSA for a few years. I had a full scholarship, but my grades started slipping," Calvo said. "I had to have a certain grade-point-average for that scholarship, and sure enough I wasn't making it so I left.

That's when Calvo said he began hanging out with his old friends whom suggested that he follow them around and make a movie about their lives.

"That was a weird time," Calvo admits. "I was at Kinko's, I just left UTSA, I broke up with my girlfriend. I had nothing to do."

He said at first, he thought following his friends was just a waste of time. It wasn't until his friend Joe Gallegos, another of the film's producers, suggested Calvo make a movie involving drugs. Calvo said one of his initial thought was a movie about girls and cocaine, possibly called The Powder Room.

Gallegos thought it would be better if the film revolved around him, Calvo, and a few other friends, suggesting they call it The Powderkids. The name stuck.

"It really is a collection of stories," Calvo said. " In the credits it says written and directed by Buddy Calvo. Stories by Buddy Calvo and Joe Gallegos."

So the idea of a few friends involved in a world of drugs just so happened to take shape in this 90-minute drama. Don't let the drama tag fool you. Calvo promised enough action to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Those viewers can also expect to see lots of newcomers in this movie. For being a little "green," as he put it, Calvo said the actors were very convincing. Stephanie Hunter is one of the only faces you may remember if you happened to catch his last film, Jacob.

People should keep in mind the actors were not paid for the long hours they put into this production. The other female lead, Tasja Sachs, said she had so manipulate her time in order to shoot her scenes.

"I worked at FedEx and had to take a lot of time off," Sachs said. "I used all the vacation time, sick days and floating holidays I had. I almost got fired because I spent so much time on the film"

Sachs also recalled an incident in which she called in to work from the set of the movie and had to put on another performance for them as she played the sick role. It was all worth it she admits.

"I totally loved my character. I could relate to her because I have so many friends that are party girls," Sachs said while hiccuping during a phone interview. She admitted to having a few drinks prior to the interview, only proving that she was a reflection of the fun party girl she played in the movie.

After shooting for nine months, and editing for another three or so, Calvo hopes his small budget production will get a huge turnout. His company, Machina Cinema is currently working on smaller projects and taking a percentage of those earnings to put toward his next film.

Even though the company's budget was far from grand, don't expect a cheesy product. Whereas most movies are screened on dvd, The Powderkids will screened on Blu-Ray.

The Powderkids will be screened Thrusday August 19 and Thrusday August 26 at Santikos Palladium Theater located at The Rim on the city's northwest side. Tickets are available online at www.machinacinema.com. But tickets are going fast and will not be sold at the door, so be sure to purchase them soon.

For more information, follow The Powderkids on Twitter @The_Powderkids and find them on Facebook at facebook.com/the.powderkids.

Looking for local business and their owners

So I've decided to try this new thing where I, San Antonio's very own TheGossipGuy, go out to local places of business that I think may interest my FB friends. I think I'll try this on a weekly basis or more if time permits. The plan is, I will go to businesses listed on my page and will write up my own review of what I think makes this place what it is (ie. the food, products, services, etc.).

Hopefully local business owners will welcome me rather than run me out...lol! So watch out everyone. I'll be out there lurking around your stores, restaurants, and whatever else you got. Please see terms and conditions below.


Void where prohibited in Texas. You may send me a message via FB to let me know of best day to swing by for specials, sales, drinks, etc. May arrive with company or alone. I reserve the right to walk out if not completely satisfied....LOL

All due respect to SAPD

I have to admit, I'm not a big enthusiast when it comes to our local police force. And it's not because I don't think they're doing their jobs right, or because I have it out for them. It's like that common customer service saying:

(and this is totally not a direct quote...lol) The bad experiences will always outweigh the good ones. A person is more likely to tell ten people about bad service as opposed to talking about a good experience they've had somewhere.

This is me with our local police. It seems to me that although I have run across some great police officers, I often remember the bad experiences most. So I should apologize for coming across as if all of our uniformed men and women in the police department are not worthy of recognition. It's just my trashy mouth spewing out word vomit for all of my FB friends. Sorry guys.

I remember being a freshman sophmore in high school and not officially having my driver's license. I was working at McDonald's at the time, and was driving my brother's truck. I shouldn't have been driving, but at the time there was no one else in the house that could pick me up or take me to work. I would usually get out at midnight or later, and didn't feel safe walking home 2 miles in the dark. So one night I'm driving one of the girls home because she didn't have a vehicle and lived in the area. I just so happened to turn right at an intersection where a sign was posted "no turn on red." Being young and naive, I didn't even see it and turned anyway.

Needless to say, I was pulled over immediately by SA's finest. The woman officer was quick to jump on my case and point out that I didn't have a license and that I made an illegal turn. She was dead set on citing me. A few seconds later, another young officer came over to see what was going on. The gentleman somehow felt compassion for me and asked the other officer to give me a break because it was late and I was young, and I was trying to get home from work. After a little bit of a debate amongst the two officers, they let me off with a warning. I never did forget that policeman. He was one of the kindest police officers I had ever encountered. I was very thankful he was there.

Another time (maybe 10 years ago), I had been in a minor accident and realized I didn't have my proof of insurance in my truck. The officer who responded to the scene asked why? I had to try and explain that my mother had borrowed my vehicle and possibly taken out my insurance card. He said he was going to issue a citation unless I was able to provide him with that card. He allowed me to make a phone call and have my mom bring the card to me. He didn't have to do that, but he did. Again, I was thankful for his help.

I can't say there haven't been ocassions where I was let off with a warning. I'd be lying if I did. It's like one of my FB friends, Rudy, pointed out: There's good and bad in everything. I've been more quick to point out the bad, and haven't even said that I've had some great experiences with police.

Earlier I made an awful remark about an incident involving a fatality with former SAPD spokesperson, Sgt Gabe Trevino. It was an ugly thing to say. I wasn't there, and I can't base judgement when I don't really know what actions were taken and what they were based on. It was a total blow below the belt, and for that I apologize. I also give kudos to my friend Paula, who works closely with the police department and gets to see everything from the inside and out.

Thanks for letting me vent a little and then making me realize that I should take a step back. Yes, I've complained about the police force many times in the past. But I have to realize that not all of them are bad apples (although you have to agree that there are those few...don't make me name cases...LOL).

Student debt and the real world.

Ok, this is the story of a young girl named Cortney Munna. The 26-year-old NYU alum currently resides in San Francisco where she works for a photographer, making $22 dollars an hour. Not too bad for a girl from upstate New York with a Bachelor's degree in religious and women's studies.

WRONG!!!

So apparently the New York Times thought this girls story was interesting. Interesting in the fact that Munna now owes back almost $100,000 in student loans ($97,000 to be exact, but what's $3,000 right?). So now this 2005 graduate is freaking out over her tuition bill and on top of that, taking night classes so that she can continue to defer them. IT'S CALLED INTEREST, YOU DUMB ASS! Maybe she should at least bother looking into that since she never bothered looking at prices in the beginning.

Let's start from the beginning as I quote a bit of Ron Lieber's article in the New York Times (June 1, 2010). "Like many middle-class families, Cortney Munna and her mother began the college selection process with a grim determination. They would do whatever they could to get Cortney into the best possible college, and they maintained a blind faith that the investment would be worth it." (The evident word here being "blind." The not so evident, but pretty much commone sense word being "stupid."

How the hell do you do you consider going a school you can't afford on "blind faith." I just wanna rip that degree from her stupid mantle! UGH!!! Lieber continues in his article that "universities like N.Y.U. enrolled students without asking many questions about whether they could afford a $50,000 annual tuition bill."

I'm sorry, this just makes me laugh. (Give me a moment to compose myself) Being a college graduate myself, I've never expected a school to counsel me on how expensive or inexpensive their tuition was going to be. It's all laid out for student prospects in their literature. I'm sorry if I don't feel this least bit sorry for Munna. It's called reading. Anyone with the slightest interest in going to college should at least be able to do that.

Again I have to quote Lieber when he suggests it's the jobs of financial aid departments of colleges and universities. "But perhaps the biggest share lies with colleges and universities because they have the most knowledge of the financial aid process. And I would argue that they had an obligation to counsel students like Ms. Munna, who got in too far over their heads."

I really don't think these colleges and universities give a shit when you're giving them your money. All they see is dollar signs. We have to remember that the business office is exactly that....a business office! They only want your business. And as long as you're willing to spend with them, they're more than happy to have you. The financial aid office is there for you to seek out and inquire all you want. You, Mr. Lieber, should know this, as writing for the New York Times, I can only imagine you are a college graduate.

I was lucky enough to have awesome counselors in high school that warned us as juniors and seniors what to expect in college, and gave us tips on where to find that funding. Mrs. Berry, if you're reading this, BRAVO! I've always admired you as a counselor.

I wasn't very priveleged. In fact, I wasn't priveleged at all. But I had a brain, and I knew how to use it. I did my all the leg work to find a college that was going to suit me. A college that I could afford, and a college that offered the program I was most interested in. Yes, it was a public university. But you know what, I've got that degree, and yes, it's accredited. So 4 years and about $20,000 later, I still hadn't found the job I was quite looking for, so I went to grad school.

Once again, I looked at the cost, weighed the pros and cons, did the leg work I thought was necessary, and enrolled in a local private institution. Another $40, 000 and one M.A. later (now totalling about $60,000), I'm still nowhere near the debt Munna has dug herself in.

So here's my advice to you, Cortney. Next time (if there is one), do the math, use your brain, and use a little common sense! But until then, good luck. I'd be crying right now with that kind of debt.

Jay Leno and Kevin Eubanks Split Up

After 18 years with The Tonight Show, Kevin Eubanks is leaving to pursue his music career. And who can blame him? I'm not sure how long I'd have been able to put up with an indecisive, overrated, former comedian. I mean really...if you're going to retire.....then RETIRE! Don't start whining about someone younger and funnier taking over your former spot. That's why it's called retirement, because you're outta there!!

And according to EW.com, Eubanks didn't even get a great send off from Leno. He performed an original instrumental called "Adoration," then had the host himself walk over and according to Adam B. Vary "the two shared what has to be one of the more awkward hugs between two grown men I’ve ever seen."

Very nice Leno. Once again, you've proven to be a real douche bag! Good luck to you Kevin.

Beer Tax? Washington not happy.

So I just heard that Congress has decided it would be a great idea to hike up beer tax. It was a proposal pitched by Sen. Max Baucus (D-Mont.) and Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa). According to the New York Post, it was a proposal the senators didn't exactly support, but rather just pitched as a way of paying for the President's healthcare reform plan.

So now beer drinkers in Washington will be spending another $.28 per six-pack. It's what some residents there referred to as a "sin tax." The new tax goes into affect on Tuesday, giving holiday drinkers just a couple of days to enjoy their beer of choice before getting slapped with the higher taxes.

And it isn't just beer tax that will be going up. Bottled water and candy will also be affected. Next month, soda also gets a higher tax. Just another one of the meager luxuries that hard working Americans will be forced to pay more for. It seems the government these days is trying to get their hands on everything, taking over everything, telling us what they think is good/not good for us.

When does it end? When we become the new communist country? I guess it's supposed to help the government meet their budgets, but why should it be at the expense of hard working lower class families and individuals who already have enough trouble of their own trying to make ends meet? Today Washington, tomorrow Texas perhaps. It is too much to ask to just let me enjoy a beer now and then? :(

Sex and the City

So I saw another ad For SATC2 while watching and episode of the actual show. I think the plot is almost ridiculous for this movie, but because all my friends will be watching it, I guess I must too. It's slated to be a big spectacle, maybe even bigger than the original. But I wonder if the writers are running out of ideas. How far fetched is it that Carrie travels halfway around the world and runs into her ex. WEIRD!

I guess what I really wanted to talk about is the characters in the show. For those of you who watched the entire run of the series, you'll remember how in the first season they actually had like mini confessionals with random characters in any given episode. I was so glad they stopped that. And remember how much each character had changed after that first season. Charlotte had like a closeted slutty side to her. She later became such a prude.

What I like is how groups of friends always connect with the group of friends on the show. For anyone who saw Bruno (which I didn't, but I recall the trailer), or at least the trailer, you'll recall how he's out in the woods with some hunters and he asks which SATC character they would be. It's true. You hear friends amongst themselves often comparing which friend would be which character. (Raising hand) I know because I've been a victim of this.

What makes me laugh though is that I've been compared to almost every character on there, depending on which friend of mine and at what time in my life you were referring to. I can see a little bit of myself in each one, but I would really hate to be labeled any one in particular. Just because they're all a little too much in their own ways. I think it's funny thought when I hear someone compare me to Carrie because I'm a writer. I have to think to myself, "come on, I'm a news writer, not a columnist. And I truly hope I don't whine quite as much as she does!"

Did you even notice how much she complained about everything. I once told a friend of mine that she was the equivalent to Brenda on 90210, only because he was such a Shannen Dougherty fan. So then just a few months ago, someone had made me aware of a show that had some similarities to SATC. The show is called Noah's Ark. I don't know how many of you have seen this, but let me warn you now...it's ridiculous! What I'm saying is that it's just something I don't care to watch. I don't want someone to misinterpret what I'm saying like the word "sick" being used to describe something that back in my childhood days would have been "bad ass." I think you get the picture.

So this movie comes out like in less than a month and I've already gotten offers from so many different friends about when and how and where we will be watching this film. If they all wanted to do it on different days, it would be simple. But turns out everyone wants to go to the midnight show the night before it opens. This might be a problem. So now I have to find out which of my friends are going to really go all out, so that I may base my decision on that. Well come on, I'm Mr. Popularity, I've got to go with a group of people who are going to make an impression.

So which character am I? I'd love to hear your thoughts. And to refrain from embarassing me, you may send me a message rather than just posting something for everyone to see. But for those of you who don't give a damn, please....PLEASE....feel free to make a fool of me. Afterall, comments can be deleted...LOL!

to be, or not to be (an alcoholic)

So after a night out on Saturday, I had to sit back and think for a bit about my alcohol consumption situation. Not that I'm saying there is a situation, but that it's a possibility. I had a friend voice their concerns when I was younger. Then again, I think lots of young people tend to drink as a way to let loose and just let go of their inhibitions and forget about that day at work that just sucked completely. For that matter, people at my age still do that. Anyway, the point I'm trying to make is that I know I can sometimes take my drinking a little far. So I did a little research (for those who are curious) to find out what the seven common signs of alcoholism are:

1. NEGLECT OF OTHER ACTIVITIES
I don't know that this would pertain to me. I don't neglect my other activities or obligations, unless I'm drunk and don't remember. That's a joke. I still get my studies done...I procrastinate, but I get it done. I still go to work in the morning. I still remember the events on my social calendar. So I know this sign doesn't pertain to me, so on to the second one.

2. EXCESSIVE USE
I think this depends on how it's meant. Does it mean excessive as in daily consumption, or excessive as in 6 drinks and 4 shots in one night at the bar? If it's the latter, then yes, I'm guilty. But if it's the former, then no. I don't drink daily. In fact, I get an evil grin on my face if I can even sneak in two nights of drinking in one week. My typical drinking schedule consists of one Saturday night with my friends around, having drinks and bitching about how society is crumbling.

3. IMPAIRED CONTROL
This is defined as "ongoing, unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control alcohol consumption." I can't really say that I've made efforts to cut down. There have been nights I have gone out and had 3 drinks, and there have been nights I have gone out and had 7 drinks. It differs depending on the company and the mood. I've gone a couple of weeks without any at all.

4. PERSISTENCE OF USE
See my answer for #3

5. LARGE AMOUNTS OF TIME SPENT AT ALCOHOL RELATED ACTIVITIES
I don't even know what to make of this one. I imagine that meaning someone who spends the entire night next to the beer pong table at a frat party! Not me. Too old for beer pong, and too wise to know that's a case of mono just waiting to happen. But if you think about it. Almost any event can become an alcohol related one. Take for example when I used to work in sales. I used to attend many social events including grand openings involving the city chamber. On many occassions, they would actually have alcohol. Of course I wouldn't have any because I knew I had to go back to work. Practically every birthday party I've been to has alcohol (unless it's a child's birthday). And every mixer I've been to has its share of alcohol. I don't however, spend lots of time at a majority of these things. I'd like to, but time just doesn't permit.

6. WITHDRAWL
Really? I don't think I have withdrawls from one Saturday to the next. But if I happen to experience it, I'll let you know what it's like. Althought I do look forward to a Saturday night outing, I don't think anticipation is the same thing as getting the shakes, sweats, or nausea.

7. TOLERANCE
Even after years of drinking, my limit is still about a six pack and a half or two. And even that's pushing it!

So take a look at the symptoms and see if you can relate. Or maybe you know someonen else with a problem. But I can say from my own experiences, I think I'm just winding down on the weekend, nothing more.

Anti-abortion IS anti-life!

Those people who threaten to stop abortions by using whatever force they deem necessary is so contracictory to their cause. Are they blind or just plain stupid??? How the F do they figure that saving one baby by killing an entire hospital is worth the sacrifice?

These fools should be tied to a chair and have a cigarette put out in their eye. No but seriously, they're in dire need of help. They're doing the very same thing that they're against. They're taking lives. This came to mind tonight after reading about a man in Plano, Texas who threatened to use deadly force to stop abortion. In the article, 27-year-old Erlyndon J. Lo said his religions beliefs entitled him to use deadly force to stop an abortion?

Oh really? Well then my personal beliefs entitle me to stop your dick from ever assisting in any type of reproductive manner. You dumb ass! I hope he gets slapped with a two pound dildo in public. That oughtta teach him a lesson. Ugh, you'll have to excuse my vulgarity. Stupidity upsets me sometimes.

Maybe this is the reason government is so insistent on removing religion from everything. Sure the govenment seems to have too much control over what is supposed to be a free country, but in some forms, religion also seems to be an excuse for some people to do very bad things. I feel like this discussion could go on forever, so I won't even take it there.

How am I supposed to take this.....hmmm?

So a friend of mine, who shall remain nameless for the time being, sees me out a couple of weekends ago. We start talking, and I casually bring up the fact that this person has not added me on Facebook. I know what some of you are thinking, "Oh come on, it's just Facebook." Hello people! Wake up and smell the 3G network! Everyone and their mothers is on Facebook (except for mine, and I don't know that she's approve of my updates or even approve my friendship for that matter).

So this friend tells me that only a certain group of people are being added to this Facebook page. Now I won't mention which group of people that would be, as this also may stir up a little conroversy among those already on that page. So my reply, "Seriously? SERIOUSLY?? You've gotta be kidding me, right?" And in the back of my mind, I'm thinking that I'm probably one of the few friends this person has who doesn't place judgement, yet I find myself being judged.

It's disappointing, to say the least, but that doesn't mean we're not friends. I like this person, and I wish this person can see that they're liked as well, regardless of any decisions they've made in the past, or who they are now, or who they think they were then. That's not for me to judge, especially as a friend. I'm not perfect, and I don't expect anyone around me to be either.

So to this friend, I say: Let's just wait until the day you decide you need my friendship because maybe you need someone who believes in you, or maybe someone has turned their back on you, and you just need someone to lean on. Will you remember how you treated me as a friend? I don't think I could cast you aside, the same way you're doing now. I'm just saying.

What's going on KSAT???

No offense to Marcus or Robert, and I love the KSAT team, but seriously? I DO NOT like the fact that two officers from SAPD are reporting traffic.

It's not that they don't really know what they're talking about. My problem is that there are thousands of journalists out there that would kill for even something as belittleing as traffic reporting just to get in. WTF is Jim Jocelyn thinking (oh, did I even spell his name right? LOL)???

So here I sit wondering what the hell I'm going to do after graduation...send out another 50 tapes?? And for what, so that someone else can hire a teacher to do education reports, maybe hire a construciton engineer to report on...well, what else, construction???

It's just sad. It's a sad, sad thing. And I know there are bigger issues in the world right now, but it's just a little bit of injustice for me knowing that I still owe thousands for my undergrad and now even more as a grad student...and for what? To end up working retail? I don't think so.

Will someone please tell me where the world of journalism went wrong??? Nevermind, don't answer that....LOL

Much better dinner tonight.

After last night's awful incident at Luther's, I'm happy to report that I had a much more pleasant experience tonight at The Yard House at La Cantera. Like a lot of other restaurants (except Luther's), this place knew how to treat a guest. Complete 180-turn from last night.

Not only were we greeted at the door, but we were taken to a booth immediately...two points already. Next, as our server approached us at the table, he was quick to ask whether we had any questions about the menu, and even gave my friend Angel advice about which way he preferred the rice...very nice, and another two points. He brought us water right away, and asked for the drink order up front. After taking our order and leaving, I remembered that I we were having more guests so I was easily able to get a hold of him and let him know that I would need more menus, which he brought without hesitation. Another two points. He proceeded to come by every so often and refill my water, as well as asked to replenish our drinks.

This guy had his act together and was very pleasant. Not to mention that the Chicken Enchilada Stack was delicious and very appealing to the eye. This gets another two and a half points from me. So all in all, The Yard House earns a whopping 8.5 out of 10 from me. A little busier, atmosphere-wise, than I expected, but a good clean environment.

Now a good to make up for the bad.

So I get my haircut today, and I have to say that the team at Visible Changes @ La Cantera rock my socks! Alex is awesome as always. I just have to say...do with it what you will, and POOF! Fabulosity!!!! Oh gawd, I hope I didn't just sound like Kimora Lee Simmons. And Imke too! They're always on top of their game, and I can see why their requests are so high.

Got my haircut tonight, and now I'm ready to flaunt my do. I'm also glad they know what to recommend as far as product. It takes all the guess work out. If you guys need stylists or are just looking for a change, try the Visible Changes at La Cantera and ask for Alex or Imke!

Does bad ever get good??

I can't even think of how many times I've been to Luther's, but if I had to count, I'll bet I could do it with one hand. If you haven't yet been there, it's the hamburger joint right across from The Saint on Main St. It's also owned by the same guys who own Heat and the new Sparky's Pub, located in the void left by the previous Silver Dollar Saloon.

Don't get me wrong, Heat and Sparky's are bad ass, but I'm not sure what's going on with Luther's. It seems that their wait staff is always just soooooo inexperienced. I honestly think that they hire patrons from their bars. They're badly groomed, with bad hair, and even worse personalities (no offense, ArJay...he's one of my boys).

So I go there with my friend, Angel tonight to grab a bite to eat after work. We're seated pretty quickly....2 points so far (keep in mind this is on a scale of 10). Next, our drink orders are taken (with no indication on the menu as to whether or not refills are free on soft drinks). I was quick to order a Big Red because for some reason I've been on this Big Red high. Anyway, he had average timing on our drinks....1 point. So he gives us "a minute" to look over the menus...again, but we were ready to order. After collecting our menus, he says the order will be "right out."

So you know, I'm thinking like 10-15 minutes. WRONG! Try 40 minutes later...mind you I have an appointment for a haircut @ 8 and it is now almost a quarter til. We were seated at 7, by the way. Normally, I wouldn't have given a rat's ass had I been eating at Some high-end eatery...but seriously??? Luther's???? I was totally disappointed in the service, yet again. If I go there again, it will probably be for a lack of anything closer, and out of desperation. Guys, really....get better servers. The place is not bad. It's got a great location for eating after a long night of dancing, but that service has got to be kicked up a notch.

My total score for Luther's is a whopping 3 out of 10. Better luck next time, boys. It's a good thing for them my review doesn't really count for anything. Oh, and by the way, what's the difference between their Irish Stew and their Homemade Chilli? Absolutely nothing!

I'm speechless!

I've finally run out of things to say! Ok, I haven't. The fact of the matter is that I'm still stressed out. Classes resume next week, and I'm still trying to dish out my proposal for my thesis. Ugh! It's driving me insane. Sure I'm a good writer, but even I get writer's block. My research has come to a hault. I'm at the point where I don't think I should be sleeping because there's no time, but at the same time, I'm tired, and I'm working the most bizarre hours this week and next.

And the fact that I keep working at a computer with Facebook access isn't helping. I'm alway finding the need to see what everyone is doing, or where they're going. Damn FB!!!! I need to focus. That's it! I just need to focus a little more on my studies and remind myself that I've got a deadline. I guess I can do that. I do work better under deadline pressure.

So tomorrow's Friday, and again I'm working in the evening. Of course I'd get the short end of the stick at work, on the night my BFF is celebrating his birthday. But...I did tell him that I would catch up with him after, just for a little bit. I really do need to concentrate...well, that and I need to work Saturday morning.

So back to work...focus, focus, FOCUS!!!!!