Henry Cruz

HenryCruz.com is moving...

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 21:40:00 +0000

'Right across the street...click refresh on your browswer to take out the extra letters at the end -- http://www.HenryCruz.com -- or click to the name on the top of the home page for the newer version...see ya in a bit.

'Hold on a sec, not that box -- (that special one goes with me).

'A little crazy for the next day or so, while I move stuff over to a new system -- (and work out the kinks). But, to keep my chops...I'm planning to write all through it...but, it could get a little messy.

'Not much gonna change, just house cleaning, a paint job, some new fancy bells-and-whistles that might not work; 'in mental-cyber-speak, it's almost like moving right next door, without actually doing the physical labor.

Telling the same story...twice

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 23:30:00 +0000

'Secretly fantasize 'bout going back in time and having a 'do-over...'I might finally get a few things right.

'For Better or for Worse scribe -- Lynn Johnston (60), decided instead of retiring she'd start-over -- “If I could do it all over again,” Johnston writes in one recent Sundays installment:

“would I do some things differently?” She would, and she will.

As she says here in this clip (above), the strip will now be about 50 percent new stuff mixed in with the old stuff -- or what she calls new-runs.

Sweet, half the work for the same paycheck --(another secret fantasy of mine).

'Wonder if this keep-working has-to-do with her marriage recently ending...

Could be...'she needs the extra cash to nurture the cougar buried inside us all -- “I never thought I’d be single at this time of my life,” she said in that interview. “And with that in mind, I still want to work, I still want to keep my hand in it.”

'Just make sure you wash that hand before coming to dinner...

Source: Winston-Salem Journal

Could smoking trees balance the budget?

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 17:34:00 +0000

'News today of the U.S. accusing the Venezuelan government of aiding drug traffickers -- ('giving Colombian gang-leaders guns & helping move the drugs)...

'kinda points to the pink-elephant in the room -- 'might be time to legalize some drugs? -- Wouldn't that disarm the criminal traffickers lock on such dirty-biznesses?

'Not sure if a blanket legalization of all street drugs is the answer -- ('but really now, isn't Weed a harmless herb??)...

'and there's no denying that our war-on-illegal-drugs is full of corrupt-sloppy-politically motivated agendas...

'from the futile efforts by the Drug Enforcement Agency,

'locking up stupid people for their victimless crimes...to reinforcing the gangs and mafia outfits that live-and-die off of street drugs; 'I'd much prefer a government gang running shit, over the violent gangs populating our streets.

All while the real white collar criminals, those legal-drug companies, swim in billions off of medicating us with another useless pill we really don't need.

I'm generalizing here, and over simplifying the answers, I know.

There's no denying the fact that legalizing some street drugs would give the U.S. a $50 billion boost to the economy; 'not to mention relaxing the burden on our maxed-out-prison-system since -- 'about 2 million people in the U.S. are arrested for drug offenses each year...'

Popular Science points out how folks -- 'have long appreciated smoking trees for its seemingly magical effects on mind and body. The fact that it is illegal (at least in the United States), has never stopped people from partaking in a little herbal refreshment.'

Experts agree -- 'marijuana alleviates the pain of those afflicted with glaucoma...'But even since the 1950s, scientists have recognized, and pushed for, the antibacterial properties of Cannabis sativa.'

'A team of scientists...tested the five most common cannabinoids and found each one to be effective against several common multiresistant bacterial strains....the team also suggested that cannabinoids may be even more useful in fighting off bacterial diseases.'

I'm no economic expert, but doesn't it does sounds like a win win for a slumping economy to tax defenseless crimes -- (the very same way we tax cigarettes and alcohol). I'm here to say: smoke 'em if you got 'em...

Via MSN

Next two "IN" Books...

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 22:17:00 +0000

'Feeling a bit like the "IN" club? -- 'next two books on my desk have the IN-word in the title, coincidence? or destiny? -- ('hmmmum, technically In Odd We trust is a graphic novel); anyhoo, first up is In the Woods...

And I'm looking forward to revisiting with the master of suspense, Dean Koontz, who lends his name to a comic book adaption of his popular Odd Thomas series...

If ya feelin a bit Oprah-book-club-ish, 'pick 'em up and read along with me --(or leave me a comment on what you're reading, 'cause I'm always up for another good book after I'm done).

As usual I'll post a short review of each when I'm done reading 'em.

Broadway flexes those A-list private parts

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:07:00 +0000

Those chasing an A-list make-over usually means a stop over to Broadways dark-stage -- for some, showing off their punnani for the jollies of the theater elite.

'Broadway, it seems, has eclipsed Playboy as the place to make Hollywood pay attention,' says the NY Times. 'There was a time when female movie stars who felt they were being ignored by the industry took off their clothes for Hugh Hefner’s magazine. Now they brush up their Shakespeare — or Schnitzler or Miller — and hit Gotham.'

Case in point, Nicole Kidman (way before anybody was checking for her), she was -- 'a movie actress who was most famous for being the wife of Tom Cruise took her first step onto a Broadway stage and was instantly transformed into her own dazzling woman....there’s no question that Nicole Kidman’s professional life was kicked into a new, loftier orbit after she starred in 'The Blue Room,'

No difference than any current Hollywood A-Lister working for peanuts on smaller films; looking to for some INDIE-cred by taking a walk on the wild side.

And no mistake in the timing for Radcliffe (Equus) -- since that Potter series is nearing its end...word on the streets seems to be -- 'If you feel you’re losing ’em, pal, just shuck the clothes.'

Source: NY Times

The Four-letter word for Teens: Save!

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 02:28:00 +0000

'got a teen girl in my immediate family with a paying job -- at 19 she got cocky and tried living on her own, and totally screwed it up.

She didn't pay her bills on time, and cried to momma how she was hungry and couldn't keep food in the fridge -- ('wha...she's making a couple of grand a month, I says):

'no planning. Spent all her cash on the day of her payday -- (what we call payday-rich).

Let me back up, this is a bright kid. One subject they didn't teach in school -- (or in the home) however, is basic money management.

I don't claim to be in league with the likes of Suze Orman...'but, I don't ever remember going hungry.

So, I clicked my fake heels 'bout this book on money (aimed at teen girls).

'When it comes to money,' says the first paragraph. -- 'The most powerful four-letter word you can learn isn't an obscene one. It's save."

START-'EM-EARLY: 'Kids need to get involved with money and they need to handle it,' says one expert.

'Parents need to involve their kids in financial decisions as soon as they are old enough to grasp it."

Learning about money management now gives them a foundation so later on they avoid a lot of bad mistakes early -- and don't come running back home crying how hungry they are...

Source: Washington Post

Obama: In the lions den

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 06:57:00 +0000

Usually think that Fox News is far away from -- 'Fair and balanced,' however, here's a smart clip (a rarity for them)...

'Making the rounds on the blogisphere, coming from a conservative on foreign policy -- (entitled: I’m Tired of Agreeing With Obama)...

the author of that blog adds -- 'I expect sharp words and fireworks with Bill O’Reilly and Barack Obama on the same set. What I don’t expect is to find myself agreeing with Obama over O’Reilly...'

I wrote previously about my own political views (click here) but, as a citizen I enjoy hearing debates on real issues that effect us; and this was a good one.

Source: United Liberty.org

Two things happy people do

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:57:00 +0000

In this article from Oprah Magazine - 'Five things happy people do,' they spoke with experts to find common traits in happy people...I picked two of the five listed (and added my own take on it).

(1) Happy People -- avoid "if only" fantasies. If only I get a better job…find a man…lose the weight…life will be perfect. Happy people don't buy into this kind of thinking...'instead, keep their lives full of novelty, even if it's just trying a new activity (diving, yoga) or putting a new spin on an old favorite (kundalini instead of vinyasa).'

To me, this has much to do with the added stress caused by trying to keep-up-with-the-Jones, or worrying about what other people have. Envy can be a real bummer.

I also agree that keeping yourself busy with variations on regular everyday things keeps the brain from getting too much comfort.

(2) Happy People 'put best friends first. It's no surprise that social engagement is one of the most important contributors to happiness. What's news is that the nature of the relationship counts...One of the most essential pleasures of close friendship is simple companionship, "just hanging out..." -- going to the movies together and eating popcorn in the dark.'

I get this: simple companionship with people I like goes a long way.

I know a cut-throat dude that is so driven by making money, that he chooses his friends only by how they can forward his career (The no-losers allowed club). While I'm lucky enough to fit into that club, I ended up distancing myself from him because I don't subscribe to that theory that you discard friends as you move up the social ladder. Having more money doesn't make you a better friend.

Overall, I happen to one of those that believe happiness is over-rated. I embrace my sadness and sorrow as part of life's lessons. If we sat around ignoring the the bad things that surround us don't we then lose that hunger to work towards change?

Source: Oprah Magazine

Cruz Review: Twilight, true Love at 17?

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 23:09:00 +0000

'Doubtful Teen-lit author Meyer needs any help pushing her Twilight book series, but as promised here's my perspective:

Book Genre: Teen Vamps -- 'Propelled by suspense and romance in equal parts,' offers Publishers Weekly.

Story Blurb: A perfect male-model-type Vampire falls for your ordinary girl next door -- (or what coulda been subtitled, finding your soul mate at age 17...'subtracting of course anything to do with sex), so it's a big time fantasy.

Page-turner meter, (or the can't-put-it-down factor): I gotta be honest, I was not hooked from page one, but I ending up reading the entire book in under four days...'in large part my I'm-not-buying-this meter got in the way of fully enjoying the suspense.

Could also have something to do with the fact that I'm not the intended female teen audience; but, the good news is that regardless of your age (or gender), the story kicks into high gear after about page 90. So, on a scale of 1-10, it gets a shaky 8.

What I really liked: I do get it; 'and especially understand why girls really love it. The protagonist, Bella, is your average teen girl and after spending so much time in her head we see a modern day Prince Charming story (or in this case, add a touch of the Prince of Darkness danger factor to the mix).

What I least liked: I got it down to two things that really bite at me...

(1) In Meyers world nobody has, or talks sex...'I'm sure, if memory serves correctly, that your average 16 or 17 year old might have at least thought about it once. One of the most seductive things in Vamp-lore is the erotic nature, so to cut that out completely feels very Sarah Palin-ish.

(2) A few critics have accused Meyer of 'peddling saccharine melodrama,' I think that's in part to do with the dialogue. The characters in this book don't sound like your average teens...unless they all live on a Amish farm.

'That being said, there's a part of me (like any screeching teen girl) that also yearns for eternal love and finding my soul mate...'so, I'm eagerly looking forward to seeing the movie, and reading more from Meyer.

Toronto just wants to have fun...

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 18:15:00 +0000

"We could say we are living in quite difficult times with wars and economic problems, but I think filmmakers understand that audiences just need a break sometimes from that," said Toronto festival chief Cameron Bailey (via AP)...

'Bucking a trend that started way-back when American Beauty busted out of Toronto to win a (best picture) Oscar; followed closely by other high-brow flix like Crash, Capote, Sideways, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, to name a few...

Toronto, quickly became known for its love affair with small artsy pix. Just last year they hosted -- 'the North American launches of several eventual Oscar winners -- Juno, No Country for Old Men, Michael Clayton and Atonement..'

This year got a bad-case of amnesia, asking 'Oscar-who?'

'Going instead with (I-kid-you-not) -- Rocknrolla type comedies -- '30 comedies in total, including Zack and Miri Make a Porno starring Seth Rogen and Elizabeth Banks, Anne Fontaine's La fille de Monaco, and the Coen brothers' dark comedy Burn After Reading.

'Sometimes it is just about having a good time,' says the NY Times. 'That was the message here on Thursday night, as the Toronto International Film Festival got going with a face-smashing, belly-laughing gangster caper from a director best known as Madonna’s husband...'

No, really, Madonna's husband is now a festival darling? -- Is that the best we can come up with?

'Politics is in surprisingly short supply here, given the imminence of a United States election and the festival’s past record.'

In fact during a panel discussion, the moderator fished for a political thought in connection with one of the more commercial films. The filmmaker scoffed at the message-driven fare of the past, saying the film is just meant to be enjoyable.

“Change happens,” he added, “in very personal, subtle, minor ways more than it does in a big landscape.”

Source: NY Times

Prison Break: tube encourages good behavior!

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 17:16:00 +0000

'Don't think prisons when I think about that argument against a digital-divide-inequality in America -- (making sure we have an equal playing field for folks locked-in-poverty, as well as those born with a silver spoon in their mouth)...

So, when I read about TVs big switch over to a digital format (dumping analog) locks out prisons: 'the nation's broadcasters make the switch from analog to digital signals next Feb. 17, televisions that aren't hooked up to cable, satellite or a converter box will be reduced to static...'

I pull out the worlds smallest violin to I listen to prisoners cry "waaaah, I can't watch America Idol..."

'While TV might seem like an undeserved luxury for inmates, prison officials and inmates say the tube does more than fill year after year of idle hours - it provides a sense of normalcy and is a bargaining chip that encourages good behavior.'

I don't know about you, but I don't think missing out on getting HBO qualifies as cruel and unusual punishment.

Like this video shows, prisoners have bigger issues -- like not dropping the soap:

Source: CBS News

Twilight-mania: Playing catch up!

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:33:00 +0000

'late-to-lunch on that Vamp-Twilight-saga (by Stephenie Meyer)...'but, my hunger for pop culture, cool Vamps, and a writing-success story got me reading. Both on the Meyers back-story and the 1st Twilight book: 'bout the sappy-relations between a abercrombie-looking-vamp and an semi-average teenage girl -- (I'm on the final few pages of the book, and I'll post a review later in the week)...

'Lets get into how-Meyers-did-it-story.

Those big sales -- 'isn't due simply to her vivid imagination for vampire romance,' as Business Week points out. They called it -- 'the first social networking best seller.'

'Meyer, a 34-year-old mother of three from Phoenix, went well beyond standard marketing. She engaged with online readers to answer their most detailed questions about the star-crossed lovers, Edward Cullen and Bella Swan. She put up her own Web site, in addition to the one by her publisher, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, posting her personal e-mail address and family photos...'

In turn, 'Meyer's readers have responded by creating an entire world of Twilight on the Web.'

While the web -- (and the rabid-fans-need-to-know) is the best way to connect with other fans...it's not without pitfalls.

'Just yesterday: Meyers punished fans after a partial (rough) draft of the next book was leaked on the web. As Meyer wrote on her website, "I'd rather my fans not read this version of Midnight Sun...'My first feeling was that there was no way to continue. Writing isn't like math; in math, two plus two always equals four no matter what your mood is like. With writing, the way you feel changes everything. If I tried to write Midnight Sun now, in my current frame of mind, James would probably win and all the Cullens would die..."

Source: Business Week

Oh no, not Peggy Hill...

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 06:13:00 +0000

Poor poor John McCain...'got us all stuck in a bad rerun of 'King of the Hill --(problem is this isn't a cartoon we could just laugh off)...

And In the end I might up choosing the lesser of the evils...'As with any wacky-extremist, the more I read, the more the Palin choice got me pretty scared right about now.

I wrote on here that neither presidential candidate rocks my world. In that interest of full disclosure, I'm in that allusive-undecided-club -- (a former Pro-Hillary...'moderate on most issues, conservative on others. But yet socially liberal on important stuff like health care and the growing poverty divide).

I'm closest in philosophy to our great New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

Photo credit: TMZ.com

Could Jesus Christ have morning wood?

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 15:58:00 +0000

What sounds like Much Ado About...'morning wood is having a very real day in court: The case is against an art gallery in the U.K. that dared to exhibit a statue of Jesus Christ with an erection -- (they're being sued by a devout Christian who said she was offended).

To me, the least interesting thing about all this is the art, by Terence Koh, which actually isn't very good (my three year niece could do so much better)...

'More interesting was the debate: 'Art is made to move people, to make them question, to expand their perceptions, to have an effect on the way they think,' says a civil minded person. 'Sometimes, some art is going to offend some people. But if we let a vocal minority get away with censoring art, the majority loses.'

A spokesman arguing against Koh said they believed in freedom of expression, but "this statue served no other purpose than to offend Christians and to denigrate Christ."

I can't disagree more with the "offend" part -- from what I see here, Christ was packing (and, ahem, truly-blessed) -- I gotta agree with this commenter: "Jesus just has a lot of love to give!"

Plus, think about it logically, assuming Jesus was indeed a real person, the biology and science would strongly suggest he might also have had morning wood. I would even go so far as to say Jesus also sat on the bowl and moved his bowels...'at least once.

Source: Guardian, U.K.

Got nothing to wear...

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 02:48:00 +0000

"It's like the back-to-school season never happened," says the NY Post. Talking how retailers -- (especially clothing companies) -- have called this year the worst in recent years.

'Just not the best time to be in the clothing business: 'On one end, you have working families forced to skip discretionary items like clothing...

'And those that can spend on big ticket items just aren't -- fearing they might appear like they're flaunting their excess wealth. Leaving everybody feeling like they have nothing to wear.

You have a whole Lotta folks feeling stuck in middle -- trapped in a vicious cycle. In part, because of the rising inequality of the super-wealthy... They keep working and working only to feel like they are not getting anywhere.

'Which causes people to work more and more...'just to keep up in an economy increasingly dominated by status goods. Getting back little in return, scratching their heads -- still wondering why they have nothing to wear.

Source: NY Post

The Porky-Pink Elephant in the room!

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 19:43:00 +0000

Have a seat. No, wait a sec, don't sit, I just got that new chair. 'And researchers are saying two-thirds of us are already overweight...

Pointing out -- 'every American adult could be overweight 40 years from now.

Intended as 'a wake-up call' the new study adds -- 'Simply telling people to eat less and exercise more is not enough.

So, it really does take a village (maybe with reinforced seats) -- 'such as making communities more pedestrian-friendly so that people can walk regularly, or getting the food industry to offer healthier, calorie-conscious choices.

"It really needs to be more than an individual effort. It needs to be a societal effort." -- I agree here, like climate change, it's the porky-pink elephant in the room that folks don't talk about. So, speak up. Walk it out; and learn more about what you're putting in your mouth.

I wrote about my own hugging of a more 'Mediterranean lifestyle; 'read today another article suggest -- 'new studies present evidence that this plant-based diet - which features plenty of vegetables and limited meat, with olive oil the primary source of fat - also reduces cancer risk.

I think some basic common sense works here, like simply writing down what you shove down your throat helps (the good, bad, ugly)...I'd suggest signing up online on one of the many social-dieting websites (they're free and it allows you to keep a daily diary that charts your progress).

Isn't it really about baby-steps in the right direction. Here's a cool "eat this, not that." video...they also have a fun online quiz (Men's Health)

Source: Rueters Health

Double-tasking helps boost memory!

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 20:27:00 +0000

I'm big on single-tasking -- (which is the opposite of multi-tasking).

'Just harder to really excel at something if you're constantly switching up or being distracted by other things.

I'm also big on 'Learning-by-doing: which gives me a chance to reflect on similar past experiences, while creating a new hands-on experience to maximize understanding and get better...'sounds right?

'Turns out, if ya want to boost your memory capacity -- I'm half right.

Welcome Double-tasking: whereby memorizing (or associating) two things -- will boost memory, suggests a new study.

So simplifying things to just two things (and bringing them together) helps in that brain plasticity -- (known as the ability of the brain to strengthen memory attention among other things).

There's an 'area of the brain called the perirhinal cortex that also contributes to forming simple memories, says Science Daily -- (it was previously thought that only the area called the hippo campus was in charge of actually storing all memories).

In layman's term, if you can connect and remember two easy parts, this will boosts your brains ability to better remember similar (and more complex) things.

'Speaking of plasticity here's a great video on Brain Aerobics:

Source: Science Daily

Sci-Fi's Fringe Benefits?

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 18:30:00 +0000

Abrams (Lost-dude) has got my nerd-tention with Fox's Fringe; billed as a paranoid, procedural drama (filmed here in Queens NYC), looks like a cross between the twilight zone and The X-Files.

In an interview creator J.J. Abrams talks about the rise in science on the tube:

"Popular culture is a mirror, and we are living in a time where every day some kind of shocking or amazing announcement is made. To read today, for instance, that researchers have found a way to destroy HIV or help 80 percent of Alzheimer’s patients, it’s amazing. These types of things are becoming more commonplace. There’s more science in our lives, so there’s more science on TV."

“Fringe” launches on Sept. 9 on Fox, and I'll be checking this one out.

Source: Popular Science

Abercrummy: 'say no to Ugly?

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 02:33:00 +0000

'Might need to change that to name to Abercrumbles -- with slumping profits 'sounds like that pricey-preppy-chain might need it's own fashion makeover: "As allowances dwindle and parents fret over their jobs and home values, the 'fresh, clean, simple and optimistic' look of American Apparel's hipster gear is gaining appeal," says the NY Post.

And it just might get uglier...

Speaking of Ugly, 'found this article on the 'Hierarchy of hotness' rules at Abercrombie & Fitch. Which basically says, 'You're either Abercrombie hot – or you're not. Hmmm...

Makes ya wonder if there are enough hot people to wear their clothes; And does this exclusion on the average Joe-buyer affects their bottom line? Opps, I guess it does.

One girl 'was pulled from a sales position on the floor...and shoved back to the stockroom to fold clothes.

In its defense the company says 'it is important to uphold the brand's image and maintain diversity in its stores.' -- "It's a hierarchy of hotness," says the Morning Dallas News.

"There's no real problem to discriminate against 'ugly' people," said one Lawyer. "The problem is when you define beauty to incorporate white, which it essentially does at Abercrombie."

Source: Dallas Morning News

Cruz Review: Dirty-handed-fun!

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 08:54:00 +0000

Meg Gardiner knocks-it-out-the-park with her American-debut (and here with her sixth novel), The Dirty Secrets Club.

I wrote briefly about this author last week, now After finishing the book, I'll offer ya'll my short review below:

Book Genre: Like getting ya' hands-dirty with suspense, crime, and danger, leading up to nail biting climax? -- Then The Dirty Secrets clubs right up your alley.

Story Blurb: Police call in Forensic psychiatrist Jo Beckett to sort out a crime; 'the clock is ticking 'cause they have 48 hours before somebody else dies.

Page-turner meter, (or the can't-put-it-down factor): On a scale of 1-10, this gets a solid nine. I could almost see a Julia Roberts (or another A-lister) doing twirls in the film version.

What I really liked: I'll focus on two things, but there's lots to like here:

(1) The villains here could've been flat, but the author smartly went out of her way to make it less of a one noter, which looks at the good and bad inside humanity, as opposed to plain 'ol good guy versus bad guys.

(2) Getting back to the suspense level, it's very well plotted. A touch of Alfred Hitchcock mixed with the girls of ABC's short lived legal drama series Women's Murder Club.

What I least liked: If I really have to pull something from between my butt cheeks to Pu-pu the fun...'or something that set me off, I got two things (but, I'm nitpicking here):

(1) We don't meet our protagonist Jo, until chapter three (around page 14th). Which made my brain work harder to sort out whose story it is, for a brighter person this might be okay...for a slow learner like me I don't like so many obstacles

(2) I love those quirky character driven books, but this story's so very very plot by the numbers which never slows down long enough to give me a throw away moment that doesn't tie right into the plot.

I know, I know, everything nowadays is story story story, or cut it out...but, I would like to see more small moments for the sake of character in the next book, and nothing to do with moving the plot. For example, for my money the best part of the USA's Monk is less about the crime, and more about the quirkiness of Monk.

The Dirty Secrets Club

Real Estates' newest pitch: Easy Commute

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 01:06:00 +0000

With real estate slumping away, the newest buzz word here in N.J. (and nearby cities) is easy commute, with programs offering -- 'people who work in a particular town to also live there. 'Geared mostly towards single people and young families looking to plant roots in a place as workers and residents -- (the city programs offers kick-backs if you work & live in the same city).

I'm not big on live, play and work smash ups. I do understand that need to get up in the mornings and "go to work." And some distance plays a role here. I myself, live in N.J. and take the train into New York for work. I think living so near work I'd might feel too available.

'I do love the the idea of creating a sense of community (some place you can call your own); but, I don't want to mix work and play.

All for giving back to my community and building it up by supporting local businesses. But, I want a clear seperation from work place and my home.

While there's that perk of a smaller carbon footprint of not having to drive a long way back and forth. Isn't that what trains and buses are for?

I'm curious to know what ya'll think about that (so, leave me a comment on your own commutes)...

Source: NJ.com

Editing Day One: 'Kitty Talk...

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:36:00 +0000

A few months ago we shot the short film "After Party Babies," with a great INDIE crew, decent actors...but, this week is the first time we actually start cutting. On reflection, making a short movie is a semi-glamorous mix: really long hours, little sleep, and people yelling, that I can only now think of as lots of fun.

It took 9 full days, consisting of 14 really long hour days of on-location prep and shoot time...

Now, months later, it's finally time for editing...'all for what might end up being 15 minutes of film time.

The story for After Party Babies showcases a day in the life of three New Yorkers that all end up at an after hours party. I'll be writing little blurbs here and there on the editing process and eventually (fingers crossed) the various submissions to the film festivals.

Yesterday, on day one. We -- (meaning the editing crew that consists of myself, Valery and Stephanie) -- screened a few minutes of foreign film clips to talk with the editors on style and rhythm.

I told them "I'm really attracted to the european style of editing. That doesn't always tell you everything thats going on."

We then logged footage and set up a blueprint for our editing sessions to come.
The big talk on day-1 was our pets, Valery and Stephanie have a six month old Kitty (that sat in the editing studio with us), I myself have a much fatter and older 20 pound-porker.

Workwise, it felt good to see, and hear the potential of film on the editing bay. The big line of advice given to me -- (and recited yesterday by me to Stephanie and Valery): "The script is written twice, on the page, and rewritten in the editing room."

Hungry for Change?

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:32:00 +0000

'We all know there are good foods, and bad things on the list to avoid...'but, it's nice to be reminded. This list is as much for myself -- (as I jump back into working out and eating right), as for anybody trying to eat-the-right things, and improve their overall heath. I just had my shot of wheatgrass, and will have a blueberry smoothie later today...how 'bout you?

Spinach

It may be green and leafy, but spinach is also the ultimate man food. This noted biceps builder is a rich source of plant-based omega-3s and folate, which help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Bonus: Folate also increases blood flow to the penis. And spinach is packed with lutein, a compound that fights age-related macular degeneration. Aim for 1 cup fresh spinach or ½ cup cooked per day. SUBSTITUTES: Kale, bok choy, romaine lettuce FIT IT IN: Make your salads with spinach; add spinach to scrambled eggs; drape it over pizza; mix it with marinara sauce and then microwave for an instant dip. PINCH HITTER: Sesame Stir-Braised Kale Heat 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 Tbsp. minced fresh ginger, and 1 tsp. sesame oil in a skillet. Add 2 Tbsp. water and 1 bunch kale (stemmed and chopped). Cover and cook for 3 minutes. Drain. Add 1 tsp. soy sauce and 1 Tbsp. sesame seeds.

Yogurt

Various cultures claim yogurt as their own creation, but the 2,000-year-old food’s health benefits are not disputed: Fermentation spawns hundreds of millions of probiotic organisms that serve as reinforcements to the battalions of beneficial bacteria in your body, which boost the immune system and provide protection against cancer. Not all yogurts are probiotic though, so make sure the label says “live and active cultures.” Aim for 1 cup of the calcium- and protein-rich goop a day. SUBSTITUTES: Kefir, soy yogurt FIT IT IN: Yogurt topped with blueberries, walnuts, flaxseed, and honey is the ultimate breakfast—or dessert. Plain low-fat yogurt is also a perfect base for creamy salad dressings and dips. HOME RUN: Power Smoothie Blend 1 cup low-fat yogurt, 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, 1 cup carrot juice, and 1 cup fresh baby spinach for a nutrient-rich blast.

Tomatoes

There are two things you need to know about tomatoes: Red are the best, because they’re packed with more of the antioxidant lycopene, and processed tomatoes are just as potent as fresh ones, because it’s easier for the body to absorb the lycopene. Studies show that a diet rich in lycopene can decrease your risk of bladder, lung, prostate, skin, and stomach cancers, as well as reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. Aim for 22 mg of lycopene a day, which is about eight red cherry tomatoes or a glass of tomato juice. SUBSTITUTES: Red watermelon, pink grapefruit, Japanese persimmon, papaya, guava FIT IT IN: Pile on the ketchup and Ragú; guzzle low-sodium V8 and gazpacho; double the amount of tomato paste called for in a recipe. PINCH HITTER: Red and Pink Fruit Bowl Chop 1 small watermelon, 2 grapefruits, 3 persimmons, 1 papaya, and 4 guavas. Garnish with mint.

Carrots

Most red, yellow, or orange vegetables and fruits are spiked with carotenoids—fat-soluble compounds that are associated with a reduction in a wide range of cancers, as well as reduced risk and severity of inflammatory conditions such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis—but none are as easy to prepare, or have as low a caloric density, as carrots. Aim for ½ cup a day. SUBSTITUTES: Sweet potato, pumpkin, butternut squash, yellow bell pepper, mango FIT IT IN: Raw baby carrots, sliced raw yellow pepper, butternut squash soup, baked sweet potato, pumpkin pie, mango sorbet, carrot cake PINCH HITTER: Baked Sweet Potato Fries Scrub and dry 2 sweet potatoes. Cut each into 8 slices, and then toss with olive oil and paprika. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes at 350°F. Turn and bake for 10 minutes more.

Blueberries

Host to more antioxidants than any other popular fruit, blueberries help prevent cancer, diabetes, and age-related memory changes (hence the nickname “brain berry”). Studies show that blueberries, which are rich in fiber and vitamins A and C, boost cardiovascular health. Aim for 1 cup fresh blueberries a day, or ½ cup frozen or dried. SUBSTITUTES: Açai berries, purple grapes, prunes, raisins, strawberries FIT IT IN: Blueberries maintain most of their power in dried, frozen, or jam form. PINCH HITTER: Açai, an Amazonian berry, has even more antioxidants than the blueberry. Mix 2 Tbsp. of açai powder into OJ or add 2 Tbsp. of açai pulp to cereal, yogurt, or a smoothie.

Black Beans

All beans are good for your heart, but none can boost your brain power like black beans. That’s because they’re full of anthocyanins, antioxidant compounds that have been shown to improve brain function. A daily ½-cup serving provides 8 grams of protein and 7.5 grams of fiber, and is low in calories and free of saturated fat. SUBSTITUTES: Peas, lentils, and pinto, kidney, fava, and lima beans FIT IT IN: Wrap black beans in a breakfast burrito; use both black beans and kidney beans in your chili; puree 1 cup black beans with ¼ cup olive oil and roasted garlic for a healthy dip; add favas, limas, or peas to pasta dishes. HOME RUN: Black Bean and Tomato Salsa Dice 4 tomatoes, 1 onion, 3 cloves garlic, 2 jalapeños, 1 yellow bell pepper, and 1 mango. Mix in a can of black beans and garnish with ½ cup chopped cilantro and the juice of 2 limes.

Walnuts

Richer in heart-healthy omega-3s than salmon, loaded with more anti-inflammatory polyphenols than red wine, and packing half as much muscle-building protein as chicken, the walnut sounds like a Frankenfood, but it grows on trees. Other nuts combine only one or two of these features, not all three. A serving of walnuts—about 1 ounce, or seven nuts—is good anytime, but especially as a postworkout recovery snack. SUBSTITUTES: Almonds, peanuts, pistachios, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts FIT IT IN: Sprinkle on top of salads; dice and add to pancake batter; spoon peanut butter into curries; grind and mix with olive oil to make a marinade for grilled fish or chicken. HOME RUN: Mix 1 cup walnuts with ½ cup dried blueberries and ¼ cup dark chocolate chunks.

Oats

The éminence grise of health food, oats garnered the FDA’s first seal of approval. They are packed with soluble fiber, which lowers the risk of heart disease. Yes, oats are loaded with carbs, but the release of those sugars is slowed by the fiber, and because oats also have 10 grams of protein per ½-cup serving, they deliver steady muscle-building energy. SUBSTITUTES: Quinoa, flaxseed, wild rice FIT IT IN: Eat granolas and cereals that have a fiber content of at least 5 grams per serving. Sprinkle 2 Tbsp. ground flaxseed on cereals, salads, and yogurt. PINCH HITTER: Quinoa Salad Quinoa has twice the protein of most cereals, and fewer carbs. Boil 1 cup quinoa in a mixture of 1 cup pear juice and 1 cup water. Let cool. In a large bowl, toss 2 diced apples, 1 cup fresh blueberries, ½ cup chopped walnuts, and 1 cup plain fat-free yogurt.

Source: Best Life Magazine

Soaring Gas prices bring us long-term cures!

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 07:17:00 +0000

Look around, notice anything different? -- I sure do.

'People are changing how they go about their daily lives; the Highway Administration says: Americans drove 12 billion less miles in June '08 than last June -- the biggest monthly drop in eight months. An even bigger decline than what we saw in the oil-shock of the 1970s.

'Bus and train usage is up. More people are looking for ways to conserve energy.

'News today shows gas prices have temporally dropped 15 cents a gallon in the past two weeks; but, isn't the better news, at least from where I sit, that sense-of-crisis has forced people to change their behavior.

'Back in the 70's the country made promises to increase gas efficiency, reduce our dependency on foreign oil, and find alternative forms of energy...'sound familiar?

'None of that happened. Today, we get-a-do-over:

'There's every reason to continue to chase alternatives.

'Right now, our oil-dependent economy is shaped by oil's arbitrarily determined price. It's become like a fake-currency. And we're slaves to that black gold standard -- (with most of those profits shipping off to foreign soil).

Obviously, we can't over simplify all the issues. "The soaring cost of energy is causing plenty of pain for Americans, especially at a time when they're being hammered by declining house values and rising food prices.

The pain isn't about to ease, either - 'We haven't yet seen the cost of heating,' warns Business Week. 'Expensive energy is a powerful medicine. It may hurt when taken, but it brings long-term cures for a host of ills.

Focus on what High energy prices is bringing us:

(1) Military-funded researchers have made jet fuel from plants.

(2) Toyota and General Motors are testing plug-in hybrid cars that can run 40 miles on electricity alone.

(3) Companies are building vast expanses of mirrors in the desert to make steam, and thus electricity, from the sun.

(4) There are new systems to control power consumption by homes and businesses from afar and programs to insulate inner-city houses, providing energy savings—and jobs.

(5) All this cuts pollution and slash carbon dioxide emissions, which cause global warming. They reduce the need for a military presence to ensure global commerce in oil.

(6) And they slow the flood of dollars to the Middle East, Russia, and Venezuela, keeping more wealth in the U.S. instead of handing it over to often unfriendly suppliers.

Source: Business Week

Cut the fat-guessing

noreply@blogger.com (Henry Cruz) — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 18:48:00 +0000

'Headed back into the gym last week, so I'm also back to sorting threw the latest fitness-trends. Every expert just about agrees that not all of us have the same body type...

In terms of diets, I been kinda hugging the border of the Mediterranean Sea, or what's called the Mediterranean Diet -- (those folks near the Mediterranean sea have a low incident of heart disease, chronic diseases, and cancer, and the highest adult life-expectancy rate, which works for me).

Here's the basic things about fat, the Mediterranean diet does contains 40% of total daily calories from fat. But, there is such a good thing as 'good fats.

Olive oil, a staple of a Mediterranean diet, is a monosaturated fatty acid and counteracts animal fats. This type of fat does not raise blood cholesterol levels and is an excellent source of antioxidants. Monounsaturated fats are, in fact, required for the body in order to function effectively.

Another staples in that diet is fish, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids, something that most people do not get enough of. I also eat lean pork and chicken breast, and rarely do I eat red meat...

'Speaking of fat, I read today about potentially -- pill popping your fat-away (for those really lazy people): 'Scientists discovered a protein that can promote the burning of body fat.

"Mice injected with a protein called BMP7 increased their production of "good" brown fat cells, while keeping their levels of the normal white fat cells constant.

Fat is a crucial part of the body's regulation of metabolism and body temperature. There are two types of fat cell with different functions: the well-known white fat cells, which store energy and contribute to obesity, and lesser-known brown fat cells that burn calories to generate body heat."

"As we learn more about the controls of brown fat development, medical interventions to increase energy expenditure by brown fat inducing agents, such as BMP7, may provide hope to these individuals in losing weight and preventing the metabolic disorders associated with obesity," offers the head researcher. I haven't reached that level of lazyness...yet...but...

'Sounds sorta like the perks of the Mediterranean diet; which instead of counting calories, focuses on food selections. In general, Mediterranean style means eating food slowly and savoring the taste of the food.

MEDITERRANEAN DIET-101

*High consumption of olive oil.

*High consumption of fruit, legumes, and vegetables.

*High consumption of grains, pasta, rice, bulgar, couscous, beans, nuts and seeds.

*High consumption of garlic. Garlic lowers your cholesterol level and protects you against cancer.

*Moderate consumption of grilled and steamed fish.

*Low consumption of lean red meat and lean pork.

*Low consumption of eggs and dairy products.

*Low consumption of red wine.

*Regular exercise is an important part of the Mediterranean lifestyle.

- GUIDELINES FOR EATING THE MEDITERRANEAN WAY

Plan your meals a week ahead. Try to include a wide variety of foods in your menu plan.

*Replace butter and other fat with extra virgin olive oil in cooking and baking. Season your olive oil with garlic and/or herbs and spices.

*Instead of dessert, eat a plateful of fresh fruit.

*Eat lots of whole grains and beans.

*Replace white potatoes with sweet potatoes.

*Eat meals full of color! Add a variety of vegetables by eating salads and soups.

*Limit processed foods.

*Add fish to your diet twice a week and cut down on red meat.

*Drink lots of water, never sugar-sweetened sodas.

Source: Guardian U.K.