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Saturday, November 22, 2014

New literary online quarterly, Trafika Europe

A new literary journal recently launched their first quarterly issue.  Trafika Europe showcases authors who might have been ignored, especially in English-language publications.   This ground-breaking publication is well worth a visit to their web site at 

www.trafikaeurope.org

The journal is displayed as a flip-book.  

The first issue, "Northern Idyll", focuses on work from Europe's northern islands, with new poetry, stories and novel excerpts translated from Gaelic and Shetland Scots, Faroese, Icelandic and Norwegian, as well as new works from German, Russian, French, Slovenian and Occitan.

One highlight, from the tiny culture of the Faroe Islands, is a chapter translated from Jóanes Nielson's The Brahmadells – A North Atlantic Chronicle. This is the first work from the Faroe Islands ever to receive a major international publishing contract, so it is the most important news of Faroese literature in our times. This work is receiving its English-language premiere in the pages of Trafika Europe.

This issue also features photos from across Europe by US-based photographer Mark Chester. 

It is well worth a look.  A long look. 



Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Get Radio Free Albemuth the movie now!

One of the best, if not the best of the many adaptations of Philip K. Dick stories and novels is Radio Free Albemuth.  This independent film did not have a huge budget, but it did have a great story and talented actors, as well as a director with a vision that resonates with the story that Philip K. Dick told.

I highly recommend that you get it now, and that you tell all your friends to get it.  Watch it more than once, and you will see details that you missed on the first viewing.

And guys, it has Alanis Morissette.  Shea Wigham plays a young author (Philip K. Dick) whose friend Nick Brady (played by Jonathan Scarfe) is unwittingly drawn into danger by a strange pink light and a voice that transmits information directly into his head.  The VALIS satellite attempts to free humanity from oppression by a totalitarian government.

This is, in my opinion, a must see, not only for fans of science fiction and Philip K. Dick, but for everyone who values human rights.  



Yekra Player
Yekra is a revolutionary new distribution network for feature films.
Radio Free Albemuth
From Philip K. Dick – author of Blade Runner, Minority Report and A Scanner Darkly – his most prophetic science fiction thriller. In an alternate reality 1985, Nick Brady (Jonathan Scarfe), a record store clerk in Berkeley begins to experience strange visions transmitted from an extra-terrestrial source he calls VALIS. He moves to Los Angeles with his wife, Rachel (Katheryn Winnick), where he becomes a successful music executive with a secret mission to overthrow the oppressive, totalitarian American regime helmed by President Fremont (Scott Wilson). But what is VALIS? A higher consciousness from another reality, an alien life-form or perhaps, even God? With the help of his best friend, a science-fiction writer – Philip K. Dick himself (Shea Whigham) – and a beautiful, mysterious woman named Silvia (Alanis Morissette)- Nick finds himself drawn into a conspiracy of cosmic, mind-shattering proportions. Although it might cost them their freedom or even their lives, they join forces to bring a message of hope from the stars and reveal the dangerous truth.





Monday, October 13, 2014

Want to understand trends in media? New book

EUROPES LEADING PUBLISHERS PRESENT THE
2014 GLOBAL MEDIA TRENDS BOOK

[PRESSWIRE] London, United Kingdom - 13.10.14 -- LATEST MEDIA MARKETS AND USAGE DATA PUBLISHED TO INFORM WORLDWIDE MEDIA BUSINESS STRATEGIES AND REGULATION.

The European Publishers Council (EPC), representing Europe’s leading media organisations, is delighted to present, for the third year running, the EPC Global Media Trends Book to inform both appropriate regulation as well as media business strategies worldwide.

The report provides a detailed survey of the digital media landscape with over 500 data sets and an in-depth analysis of global digital media revenue and usage trends.
Key findings in this year’s report include:

• Internet advertising spend is poised to exceed TV adspend in many parts of the world before the end of the decade;
• Investment in technology overtakes product development as priority for efficiency;
• Lack of talent in emerging areas (technology, internet) is the most cited barrier to growth in media companies 2013 to 2014
• Native advertising and content marketing are the top priority for marketers;
  1. The use of mobile to access the Internet around the world has doubled in one year;
  2. E-commerce on mobile and tablets has grown dramatically;
• Global newspaper industry adspend share is expected to drop from 16.9 percent in 2013 to 13.7 percent by 2018; 

• Digital news subscriptions are growing in the double digits since 2013;
•The 19-35 age group (millennials) consume little live TV compared to their older counterparts;
• Worldwide, millennials consider the internet, including social media, the most credible news source
EPC Executive Director Angela Mills Wade said: “The world’s media revenue and usage patterns are changing dramatically in 2014.  The constant shift of advertising spend, device, media and shopping patterns are driving media companies continually to innovate, and through investment in new technologies, overhaul their media strategies.

“With the EU’s political agenda now under new leadership, we will be telling our media “story” to many of the new politicians and regulators for the first time – regulators who will be tasked over the next five years to consider introducing new laws that can impact on journalism, the media and the European information society as a whole.
“Issues including digital advertising, big data, copyright and licensing, e-commerce, data protection, taxation and media pluralism are all under the spotlight so it is vital that the regulators have an understanding of the realities of the worldwide media industry and base their proposals on sound, verifiable information.”
The EPC would like to thank Martha Stone and the World Newsmedia Network for another year’s excellent collaboration.  We would also like to thank the 60 contributing research companies for their ongoing support of this valuable resource for publishers, researchers, academics and media industry stakeholders.
The executive summary of the report with details of all the data and data sources are available at http://bit.ly/Zo1Vlr

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

New book by former addict Roy Nelson who developed the Nelson Method

An interesting new book has come to my attention, so I want to share this with you.

Love Notes From Hell
By Roy Nelson
-HOW ONE MAN’S DEMONS TURNED INTO A RECOGNIZED HEALING PROCESS FOR ADDICTION, OBSESSION AND FREEDOM

soon-to-be released (October 2014 from Lulu) 

In “Love Notes From Hell,” Roy explains:
  • There can be total freedom no matter how deep the pain or how strong the addiction
  • No one is alone in the fight of addiction – there is help, finding the treatment that works is the hard part
  • The importance of digging deep to find the root of the problem
  • How to stop trading one addiction for another
  • The creation of The Nelson Method, what it is and why it works
  • Why healing spiritually helps transform lives
 
By using examples from his own experiences, as well as those of his private clients, Roy helps the reader understand why so many treatment options are failing and how spiritual truths such as those contained in the Nelson Method™ can produce extra ordinary transformation and freedom from your own personal hell.  Many truly believe that Roy is the last resort for those who cannot stop their self-destructive habits.
 
About the Author
Roy is known as “the last resort” for those who cannot stop their self-destructive habits.  Living with a violent, alcoholic father drove him to pursue a life of escape by any means possible - until he conceded that his self-imposed hell was killing him.  It was then that he had a profound experience that changed everything.  Over thirty-five years ago Roy “cracked the code” of his own addictive personality. As a result, he lost 120 pounds and overcame a myriad of addictions, as well as depression, panic attacks, and phobias. Based on his personal experience of total freedom, Roy developed the Nelson Method—a plan of spiritual healing that is designed to help people heal from their own personal hell, even when all other approaches have failed.  He and his wife live in Los Angeles, California and continue to help people find freedom through the Nelson Method.
 
For more information on Roy Nelson and the Nelson Method, please visit:www.roynelsonhealing.com.
 
“Love Notes From Hell” will be available nationwide in October 2014 atwww.amazon.com and www.roynelsonhealing.com.


Friday, September 12, 2014

Another rip-off site that promises to pay and does not pay

I am leaving Vindale Research, a website that offers to pay you for answering surveys.  You see, I recently spent the better part of an hour on one of their surveys, only to be told when I clicked the 'SUBMIT" button at the end of it that I did not qualify and therefore would not be paid.   (it was only a couple dollars, hardly enough to pay for an hour of my time.)

This particular survey involved reading a complicated legal case and answering questions as if I were on the jury.  I also had to render a verdict, and write in my own words why I reached that verdict and what other information I would like to have.

I have contacted support, had a long conversation with them, and gotten the response that they will not investigate why I was disqualified, and they will not pay me.

So I must recommend that nobody join, and that those who have joined should seriously consider leaving.  As far as I am concerned, the site is a rip-off.

Friday, July 25, 2014

Conceptalization

Let me introduce you to my "favorite" word in the English language.  "Conceptualization" -- wow, what a concept!  We make many words by putting together the building blocks known as roots, prefixes and suffixes, but this monstrosity has little reason to live.  While it does have a limited use in semantics, it is otherwise a bottom-heavy Frankenstein's creature.

Let's take a look at the parts of this word.

Root:
cepere, which means to seize or to grasp

Prefix:
con-, which means with or together

Suffixes:
-ual, which changes the noun to an adjective
-ize, which changes the adjective to a verb
-ate, which is another verb ending
-ion, which changes the whole thing back to a noun

Why not just go back to "concept"?  Or better yet, "thought" or "idea"?  People tend to use big words because they believe that they sound more intellectual, but this practice often obscures the meaning which they are trying to convey.  Choose your words carefully, and choose the simplest words that carry the meaning that you wish to express, and you will sound truly intellectual.  Besides, your audience will understand what you are saying.



Monday, June 23, 2014

My review of 6 Motel in Fort Bragg, California

I used to post reviews at Epinions, before eBay bought it up and killed it.  Since life goes on, and I have lots of friends from Epinions, now I am starting out at Bubblews.

Please view (and read) my second attempt at a post on Bubblews: 


http://www.bubblews.com/news/3978762-thumbs-down-for-6-motel-in-fort-bragg-california-a-zero-in-my-book




Sunday, June 15, 2014

I'm on Freedomizer Radio

Catch  my show, "Ancient of Days" Mondays at 3 p.m. Pacific, 6 p.m. Eastern, on
http://www.freedomizerradio.com


Tuesday, April 8, 2014

99 cent chili dogs at Wienerschnitzel

I try to eat healthful foods, but come on!  The hot dog is an American icon.  Besides, they are on sale this month.  Just one won't hurt me, right? 

Starting March 31, Wienerschnitzel, the world’s largest hot dog chain, is cutting back the price of their famous Chili Dogs, to just 99 cents for limited time only! Back by popular demand for the fourth year, this tasty deal is available at participating locations through April 27.

Almost a whole month:  from March 31 – April 27, 2014. Cheese and tax are extra.

“Wienerschnitzel has always [had] . . . a one-of-a-kind Chili Dog at a great everyday value,” said Tom Amberger, vice president of marketing. “We chose to introduce this promotion in April to give our loyal fans a price break on our most popular menu item during the sometimes stressful tax season.” 

The Chili Dog, which made its debut on the original menu in 1961, is a grilled hot dog smothered with Wienerschnitzel’s signature chili (a recipe so secret it’s locked up in a vault) and served in a soft, steamed hot dog bun. Chili Dog-lovers are encouraged to hurry into their nearest location starting March 31, to take advantage of this tasty deal!

The newest commercial featuring the 99 cent Chili Dog deal can be viewed at:  www.youtube.com/mostwantedwiener 
And, as always, the commercial is entertaining.   ~~~  


Thursday, April 3, 2014

Another Swagbucks invitiation, Travelganza!

Grab your suitcase! Find your binoculars!  Get your camera ready! And fill up the car with gas because we’re going on a ROAD TRIP!! On Friday, April 4th it’s our Swag Code Travelganza!

Here’s our itinerary:
  • The Travelganza begins at 7am PT and will run until 6pm PT (10am ET – 9pm ET). For UK/IE/AUS, the Travelganza will begin at 7am local time.
  • The trip will be filled with sight seeing, travel games, some entertainment and a chance to capture all of the memories forever!
  • Earn up to 20 Swag Bucks in Swag Codes alone!
  • Make sure to check out Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and the Swagbucks Blog for a mish mash of fun and games!
So, settle down back there kids.  Don’t make us turn this car right around!!

Get ready for a fun trip – Swagbucks Style!!


  ~~~ 






Thursday, March 6, 2014

Swag Code Extravaganza

I make some pocket money, and i have lots of fun on Swagbucks.  My favorite activity is watching video clips, and my favorite clips are cooking shows.

Today, Swagbucks is having one of their big events, the Swag Code Extravaganza.  You find the code and enter it in the box to get instant Swagbucks.

I trade in my Swagbucks for Amazon gift cards, but you have many other choices, including Paypal.  Join today and start earning while having fun!

Friday, February 28, 2014

A book that Philip K. Dick could have written

Meowing on the Answering Machine by Robert Emmett displays a twisted sense of humor, as well as outrage at the surreal qualities of what we call reality.  Festooned with pen-and-ink illustrations, this book has exactly one story about a cat.  You will also find self-cooking chickens and a dog who tells lies.  And there are flying people, too!  Oh, and a talking couch.

I recommend this collection of stories and drawings for the sheer pleasure of laughing out loud.

Please see my complete review here:

 http://www.examiner.com/review/meowing-on-the-answering-machine-book-review

Thank you so much!

  ~~~

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

My next interview, the Vinny Eastwood show

my next interview is a week from tomorrow 
Wednesday January 22, at 3 p.m. Pacific time, 
I will be interviewed on the Vinny Eastwood show 

Listeners People can join the chat roomhttp://www.thevinnyeastwoodshow.com/chat-room.html live streams at www.americanfreedomradio.com Call in Number is 218-339-8525

Friday, January 10, 2014

Dessert at Brio Tuscan Grille

Wow! 



It's so hard to choose just one! 


VICTORIA GARDENS
12370 S. Mainstreet
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739

(p) (909) 463-1036 | (f) (909) 463-1067

http://www.brioitalian.com/victoria_gardens.html


  ~~~~~~~

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

You don't have to like Italian food to love their food

First, Brio Tuscan Grille does not have spaghetti with meatballs.  Second, they do have amazing food, and not all of it is what Americans might consider Italian cuisine.  If you think of tomato sauce with oregano, you are in for a big surprise.  And if you do not have a reservation, you might wait a long time for a table.  This restaurant is very popular, and for good reasons.  

Moreover, you do not have to dress up.  The atmosphere ranges from casual to business.  They also have a full-service bar with music playing and sports displayed on at large-screen television mounted high on the wall.  If you prefer to sit outdoors, they have an area with comfortable upholstered chairs and outdoor heaters enclosed with glass walls just outside the bar.  In that area, you can see the activity on the sidewalk and street, while you are protected from noise and cold.

Well, I finally had dinner at Brio Tuscan Grille.  My reporter friend and unofficial photographer Rhea Frances Tetley, a reporter for the Alpenhorn News and founding member of Rim of the World Historical Society, drove us down to Victoria Gardens in Rancho Cucamonga. 

We stopped first at J.C. Penny, where I hoped to buy a pair of shoes.  They had a darling ankle boot with faux fur lining, but sadly they did not have it n my size.  Disappointing, we trudged over to Brio Tuscan Grille, which is just across Main Street from J.C. Penny. 

I had low expectations, since this is a chain restaurant with steakhouse prices, but I was pleasantly surprised.  The server was quick, cheerful and attentive, even though she did not know that we were there to review the restaurant.  The chef came over and talked to us because he did know.  In the interests of disclosure, we received a free dinner for two in exchange for my honest opinion. 

First they brought us bread:  a half-loaf of sourdough bread still warm from the oven, and four pie-shaped slices of rosemary flax-seed flatbread.  The sourdough had a thin, crispy crust and soft, yummy bread inside, just warm enough to melt thebutter.  The flatbread was like a  baked tortilla, made from very thin pizza dough.  The flavor was amazing, with a hiut of garlic and Parmesan cheese. 

I believe that coffee is the first and most important test of a restaurant.  If the coffee is no good, then the meal is spoiled for me.  I am pleased to report that the coffee is excellent, and they are very liberal with the free refills.  Rhea had iced tea, which she said was also excellent.  The coffee has a touch of dark-roast flavor to it, but not burned and not as dark as a French roast.  It goes down smoothly, and i did not get an acid stomach from it, even though I drank three full cups and half of a fourth cup. 

And oh, the food!  We skipped the appetizers, but next time I plan to try the cheese and tomato appetizer.  If it is anywhere near as good as the food, I will be delighted.  We were simply stuffed as it was, and we both took home take-out boxes.  The portions are quite generous.

The presentation was good enough for any high-class restaurant with any famous chef.  I kept an eye on the other tables, to make sure that we were not getting special treatment.  The only dish I saw that was not absolutely beautiful was a plate with a roasted half of a chicken and a pile of mashed potatoes.  See, you do not have to like Italian food to enjoy dining at Brio Tuscan Grille.  More importantly, all the people around me were smiling and enjoying their food.  Nobody was texting or playing Angry Birds on a cell phone.

We started with soup and salad.  Rhea said her tomato bisque, which had bits of lobster and shrimp, was creamy and delicious.  I had the Caesar salad, and the lettuce was fresh and crispy, the dressing very light and the flavor just right.  The croutons were amazing, crispy but so soft that they melted in my mouth, and definitely very fresh.  The server came around with a grater and a chunk of Parmesan cheese and asked whether we wanted cheese – of course we did! 

I ordered Pasta Pesto, and it was beautiful.  The delicate aroma of rosemary enticed me.  The angel hair pasta we just the right texture.  The chef told us that their pasta is fresh-frozen and never dried, and that does make a difference.  The play had generous slices of grilled chicken, and the meat was moist and tender.  The spinach leaves were just slightly wilted, and the tomatoes were softened but not cooked.  The sauce was an unobtrusive vinaigrette. 

Rhea ordered the lasagna, which looked beautiful and had an enticing aroma of sausage and sauce.  It had two slices of mozzarella cheese on top, sausage meat and cheese inside, and a splash of parsley on top.  The only oregano in it, the chef told us, is a small amount in the sausage.  That is important to me because I despise oregano.

For dessert, Rhea had something that looked like a chocolate cake with ice cream in a parfait glass, and I had crème brulee, which is served in a ramekin (that is a small bowl for custards and puddings) and has a fresh strawberry on top.  Once again, my taste buds were immensely pleased.

Oh, and the restrooms are clean, have no unpleasant odors (not even perfume or air freshener), and have real doors on the stalls.  They are like the restrooms in high-end hotels.  I am not sure what the deal is with the marble slab across the top of the marble sink, but I suspect that it might have something to do with water conservation.  I will have to research that.

Overall, I would give this restaurant four and a half stars out of five.  The one thing I would like to add to their menu is fresh fruit.  It would have gone well with our meal.

  ~~~