This Spring has seen its fair share of tragedy due to horrendous storms which cost hundreds of lives. The pictures coming out of Joplin today are every bit as heartbreaking as those from Alabama a few weeks back. At The Signal Watch we're regular donors to The Red Cross, and we like to encourage you to join us in chipping in a bit more when the need is sudden and great.
You don't have to be from Alabama or Missouri to want to help. And you don't even need to get up from your computer. Please visit RedCross.org today and consider a donation. Its a super sort of thing to do.
Film. Comics. Sci-Fi. Superheroes. Pulp. Noir. History. Superman. 20th Century Archaeology.
Showing posts with label signal corps. Show all posts
Showing posts with label signal corps. Show all posts
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Horus follows up on the question of "culling" and "surrendering" to the mass of possibilities in media
Some of you commented about my post the other day discussing strategies for dealing with the sheer volume of material out there, and what it means to be well-read in 2011. Or if that phrase has meaning anymore. And... thanks! Its an interesting discussion.
Horus popped up over on his site and carried on the conversation, so I think you should go over there and see what the man has to say.
Horus popped up over on his site and carried on the conversation, so I think you should go over there and see what the man has to say.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Happy Birthday to my Brother
March 17 is my brother's birthday. Some of you know Jason (aka: Steanso), many of you do not. It is no secret to many of the people of Austin that the Bros. Steans come largely as a package deal. You get one, you get the other. And we're just different enough to be completely annoying to each other and everyone who has to listen to us.
These days Jason is an attorney for Travis County where he works with two special courts that I know of, a court for folks with mental health issues and a new court for veterans. We're all very proud. We just wish he'd clean his garage.
Of late, Jason has teamed up with AmyD, who is a crowd favorite at our house (we suspect that she will eventually even get him to clean the garage).
Every year he shares his birthday with two things - St. Patrick's Day and SXSW. So, basically, the man's birthday just gets totally co-opted each and every year.
Attorney, musician, dog-owner, and unlikely king of ballet - Happy Birthday, my man.
 |
| mi hermano |
Of late, Jason has teamed up with AmyD, who is a crowd favorite at our house (we suspect that she will eventually even get him to clean the garage).
Every year he shares his birthday with two things - St. Patrick's Day and SXSW. So, basically, the man's birthday just gets totally co-opted each and every year.
Attorney, musician, dog-owner, and unlikely king of ballet - Happy Birthday, my man.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
comics and a new superblog
In case there was any confusion - I am not on hiatus. I took last night off after reporting on the passing of Jane Russell as I was reading and had nothing to ad.
I was reading X'ed Out, a newish comic from Black Hole creator Charles Burns. I quite liked the book, but only figured out in the last few pages that its not a self-contained volume, and only the first in a series. That's quite fine, as I was pretty well hooked by Volume 1.
Also read James Sturm's much-hyped Market Day. The book is definitely worth checking out at some point, but, frankly, I think nothing was going to live up the hype that this book received last year upon its release. I don't want to take anything away from the book, because its a lovely story and well crafter, but... sometimes a book is just exactly in that space where the former-English majors just sort of lose their lids as the creator hits on all the right sweet spots that tell the reader "this story is meaningful".
Mostly I just thought it was a well written book that used the comic medium and Sturm's style and the immersive world of the character particularly well. Otherwise, it sort of fell into the "yeah, that's about what I'd expect" sort of book I figured from the solicits and reviews. Its a good comic, absolutely... X'ed Out may just be a little closer to my personal wheelhouse, so reading the two on top of one another might not have been fair.
After suggesting I read it for, oh... three years, NTT was kind enough to send me a copy of Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, Vol. 1.* I don't read much (ahem: any) manga, but even I know (a) the name Miyazaki is synonymous with good comics and (b) a thoughtful, lovely comic when I see one. I'm only partway in, but so far, so good.
A new Super-blog? It seems that there's a new Superman-themed blog out there in the world, hosted by a gentleman named TomO. Let's give a warm welcome to Superman 101 (aka: Superman Daily)! (Daily? Man, pace yourself... Its a marathon, not a sprint.)
TomO has already blog-linked me, or whatever we're calling it these days. I take this as a sign that I am Tom's personal hero, and somewhere out there, he's built a small shrine to your host, The League (I've already got a motion for a restraining order on him started, just in case).
*We're always happy to take a free comic! Just, you know, not whole crates full at once. JimD.
I was reading X'ed Out, a newish comic from Black Hole creator Charles Burns. I quite liked the book, but only figured out in the last few pages that its not a self-contained volume, and only the first in a series. That's quite fine, as I was pretty well hooked by Volume 1.
 |
| yes, this is about the world's worst Easter Egg hunt |
Also read James Sturm's much-hyped Market Day. The book is definitely worth checking out at some point, but, frankly, I think nothing was going to live up the hype that this book received last year upon its release. I don't want to take anything away from the book, because its a lovely story and well crafter, but... sometimes a book is just exactly in that space where the former-English majors just sort of lose their lids as the creator hits on all the right sweet spots that tell the reader "this story is meaningful".
 |
| yup, it is exactly about what you're thinking its about |
After suggesting I read it for, oh... three years, NTT was kind enough to send me a copy of Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, Vol. 1.* I don't read much (ahem: any) manga, but even I know (a) the name Miyazaki is synonymous with good comics and (b) a thoughtful, lovely comic when I see one. I'm only partway in, but so far, so good.
 |
| giant monster: check. flying device whatzit: check. flashing weaponry: check. - what's not to like? |
A new Super-blog? It seems that there's a new Superman-themed blog out there in the world, hosted by a gentleman named TomO. Let's give a warm welcome to Superman 101 (aka: Superman Daily)! (Daily? Man, pace yourself... Its a marathon, not a sprint.)
TomO has already blog-linked me, or whatever we're calling it these days. I take this as a sign that I am Tom's personal hero, and somewhere out there, he's built a small shrine to your host, The League (I've already got a motion for a restraining order on him started, just in case).
*We're always happy to take a free comic! Just, you know, not whole crates full at once. JimD.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Signal Watch Reads Comics: Knaves' Ward - Luster of Vengeance
Its always cool to see what sort of creative things you Corpsmen are up to. This weekend, Horus Kemwer had his directorial debut shown at a film festival in Beaumont, which had participation from our own JimD and Daniel Lloyd. That's the movie Pleadings, by the way.
Well, that same Horus Kemwer has a brother who is doing the indie comic thing, and I recently received a copy of one of his works, Knaves' Ward: Luster of Vengeance. I believe the kids are using the term "speculative fiction" these days for works that don't focus on "science", exactly, in their fiction.
Firstly, let's get this out of the way: this is a DIY, straight-from-the-mind-of effort by the contributors, Matthew Isaac and David Goodman. Its not as polished as work from a mainstream company, and there's no doubt there's a certain rawness to the work. In the manner of many independent comics, Isaac is responsible for both story and art chores, and in this outing is finding his way with both.
What the look and feel of the book reminded me of is the unmitigated creative explosions set off during the black and white indie days of the 1980's. Isaac may be too young to remember walking into a comic shop and seeing shelves full of books that were unleashed on the world in the wake of the rise of the direct market and the fallout of the pre-kiddie-explosion Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Back then, Dark Horse published Concrete and titles like Boris the Bear and the notion that a Dark Horse title would ever see a movie seemed laughable.
The story itself has roots in socially conscious sci-fi work of the early 20th Century, such as Lang's Metropolis. We only get snippets of the world of Knaves' Ward, but there's a sharp contrast between wealth and poverty, haves and have nots, and some of the have nots are all-too happy to play the pilot fish to the sharks of the upper classes.
An amnesiac awakens from surgery, cold, metal cybernetic replacements where his hands were. From here, he has to fight to survive and recover his past.
I quite liked the story, and I think it shows that the creative team has a lot of potential.
Isaac's work is featured at his site, Eye of Infinity.
Well, that same Horus Kemwer has a brother who is doing the indie comic thing, and I recently received a copy of one of his works, Knaves' Ward: Luster of Vengeance. I believe the kids are using the term "speculative fiction" these days for works that don't focus on "science", exactly, in their fiction.
Firstly, let's get this out of the way: this is a DIY, straight-from-the-mind-of effort by the contributors, Matthew Isaac and David Goodman. Its not as polished as work from a mainstream company, and there's no doubt there's a certain rawness to the work. In the manner of many independent comics, Isaac is responsible for both story and art chores, and in this outing is finding his way with both.
What the look and feel of the book reminded me of is the unmitigated creative explosions set off during the black and white indie days of the 1980's. Isaac may be too young to remember walking into a comic shop and seeing shelves full of books that were unleashed on the world in the wake of the rise of the direct market and the fallout of the pre-kiddie-explosion Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Back then, Dark Horse published Concrete and titles like Boris the Bear and the notion that a Dark Horse title would ever see a movie seemed laughable.
The story itself has roots in socially conscious sci-fi work of the early 20th Century, such as Lang's Metropolis. We only get snippets of the world of Knaves' Ward, but there's a sharp contrast between wealth and poverty, haves and have nots, and some of the have nots are all-too happy to play the pilot fish to the sharks of the upper classes.
An amnesiac awakens from surgery, cold, metal cybernetic replacements where his hands were. From here, he has to fight to survive and recover his past.
I quite liked the story, and I think it shows that the creative team has a lot of potential.
Isaac's work is featured at his site, Eye of Infinity.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Happy Birthday, AmyD
So today is the birthday of Jason's lady-friend, AmyD. We actually have a present for her (let's hope she's of the "it's the thought that counts" school of gift receivership), and we hope Jason doesn't screw this up.
I hope your B-Day is buckets of fun. Make sure you exploit your birthday status at every opportunity.
 |
| This, btw, is not Amy |
Saturday, December 18, 2010
This is some of what my brother does for a living
Hey! I always like to trumpet the accomplishments of our SignalCorps.
It is with great pleasure that I point to this article in the Austin American-Statesman which is discussing the newly formed Veteran's Court for Travis County here in Texas.
Now, Jason isn't mentioned as the journalists seem to have interviewed the chief prosecutor for Travis County, but he's doing a lot of the day-to-day work for the prosecutor's office. I very much like the idea behind a court centered around rehabilitation in general, but particularly for our veterans.
So, yeah, good on Jason for being a part of this one.
It is with great pleasure that I point to this article in the Austin American-Statesman which is discussing the newly formed Veteran's Court for Travis County here in Texas.
Now, Jason isn't mentioned as the journalists seem to have interviewed the chief prosecutor for Travis County, but he's doing a lot of the day-to-day work for the prosecutor's office. I very much like the idea behind a court centered around rehabilitation in general, but particularly for our veterans.
So, yeah, good on Jason for being a part of this one.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Middle School Orchestra, Laff with The Dug, Lois Lane, Austin Superman!
Went to a show
So I have a new activity for you people, and I cannot recommend it enough:
Sixth grade beginning orchestra Christmas concerts.
So, this evening I went to my cousin's daughter's orchestra concert, and she's in the mid-tier orchestra (7th and 8th graders). And, you know, bully for them. They played a few songs as well as you'd expect a Middle School mid-tier orchestra to play. They played a song called "Stonehenge" that is reportedly not part of the Conan movie soundtrack, but so help me... I was waiting for the kids to crush their enemies, to drive them before you and to hear the lamentations of the women.
The sixth graders... ah.... now there's a small bit of tragi-comedy right there. There's truly something magical that happens when 80 kids who've never picked up an instrument play "Ode to Joy".
Support The Dug, spend less than a buck, hear jokes. Also, I had a joke in there, too
So, as you may know, Corpsman Dug, Jamie's brother, is part of Team Swizzlebeef, a Riff-Trax internet sensation!
Basically, some of the guys from Mystery Science Theater 3000 have an online gig, and in addition to them adding commentary tracks to movies (new movies! and the only way to watch a Twilight movie), shorts, etc... they support a community effort where their fans can send in videos. So, The Dug and Co. formed Team Swizzlebeef.
If you have it in for Dug, and right now are thinking "but The League, what does this have to do with YOU?" Rightly asked, I say.
Well, friends, I wrote a gag or two that appears on the video. I won't tell you which ones, because, frankly, I only remembered one of them. Booze and time have washed away the rest. Twitter-Pal JenniferSF also contributed some gags. Which makes me want to tell Dug: Drop Fennelly. He's dead weight. Hire ME.
You can preview the video and download from this link.
There's a Twitter Campaign for a Lois Lane comic series
If DC cares, I would very much give a Lois Lane book a shot. I think there's so much potential for a book about a hardcore Journalist in the DCU, in Metropolis and around the world... Give Lois something to do that can let her live up to her status as household name.
Of course, the book can only be as good as the writer, but DC has a pretty good stable, and I imagine some of those folks would love to write a book that's not strictly about weirdos in capes fighting in space.
Chris Roberson, local Austin-guy, is taking over Superman comics in the near future
Apparently local Austin comic and sci-fi scribe Chris Roberson is taking over writing duties from JMS on Superman. My comic reading is much less than it was, so I can't say I'm terribly familiar with Roberson's work, but he's got several novels out, and he's responsible for a few comics already at DC. Big boots to fill, but the internet seems to think the guy has the chops. I am very excited to hear that an Austinite is getting a shot at Big Blue!
So I have a new activity for you people, and I cannot recommend it enough:
Sixth grade beginning orchestra Christmas concerts.
So, this evening I went to my cousin's daughter's orchestra concert, and she's in the mid-tier orchestra (7th and 8th graders). And, you know, bully for them. They played a few songs as well as you'd expect a Middle School mid-tier orchestra to play. They played a song called "Stonehenge" that is reportedly not part of the Conan movie soundtrack, but so help me... I was waiting for the kids to crush their enemies, to drive them before you and to hear the lamentations of the women.
The sixth graders... ah.... now there's a small bit of tragi-comedy right there. There's truly something magical that happens when 80 kids who've never picked up an instrument play "Ode to Joy".
Support The Dug, spend less than a buck, hear jokes. Also, I had a joke in there, too
So, as you may know, Corpsman Dug, Jamie's brother, is part of Team Swizzlebeef, a Riff-Trax internet sensation!
Basically, some of the guys from Mystery Science Theater 3000 have an online gig, and in addition to them adding commentary tracks to movies (new movies! and the only way to watch a Twilight movie), shorts, etc... they support a community effort where their fans can send in videos. So, The Dug and Co. formed Team Swizzlebeef.
If you have it in for Dug, and right now are thinking "but The League, what does this have to do with YOU?" Rightly asked, I say.
Well, friends, I wrote a gag or two that appears on the video. I won't tell you which ones, because, frankly, I only remembered one of them. Booze and time have washed away the rest. Twitter-Pal JenniferSF also contributed some gags. Which makes me want to tell Dug: Drop Fennelly. He's dead weight. Hire ME.
You can preview the video and download from this link.
There's a Twitter Campaign for a Lois Lane comic series
If DC cares, I would very much give a Lois Lane book a shot. I think there's so much potential for a book about a hardcore Journalist in the DCU, in Metropolis and around the world... Give Lois something to do that can let her live up to her status as household name.
Of course, the book can only be as good as the writer, but DC has a pretty good stable, and I imagine some of those folks would love to write a book that's not strictly about weirdos in capes fighting in space.
Chris Roberson, local Austin-guy, is taking over Superman comics in the near future
Apparently local Austin comic and sci-fi scribe Chris Roberson is taking over writing duties from JMS on Superman. My comic reading is much less than it was, so I can't say I'm terribly familiar with Roberson's work, but he's got several novels out, and he's responsible for a few comics already at DC. Big boots to fill, but the internet seems to think the guy has the chops. I am very excited to hear that an Austinite is getting a shot at Big Blue!
Friday, December 10, 2010
NathanC Helps You Pick Out Your Holiday Tunes
We have a brief window here for enjoying the sights and sounds of the Holidays. A while back at our links site I mentioned a list of Christmas music suggestions I'd seen at the always-trustworthy Pop Culture Safari.
Click here to visit that list.
Do not proceed until you've read the column.
Okay? Okay.
A lot of good stuff in there. I just don't think its Christmas without the Phil Spector Christmas album. Spector may have gone bonkers, but: (a) he knew how to get a great sound (b) he knew talent (c) he knew how to cut a Christmas album and (c) The Ronnettes.
I have many trusted sources when it comes to music, but I figured that I should look to one of our specialists in such matters. Already Mrshl weighed in with recommendations for the Holidays from Sufjan Stevens and Low.
Corpsman NathanC is very knowledgeable about music of many genres, loves Christmas, and, honestly, works in radio. So while you may like your stuff... let's give Nathan a little benefit of the doubt. Man has paid his dues.
Nathan and I had an email correspondence over a few days, and Nathan's end went like this:
Nathan: Okay, so I finally got around to checking out that list. Man, I can find no fault in *any* of those Christmas music picks on the blogger's "main list." My top choices are the Phil Spector album, which captures the essence of Christmas in the big city. It feels very modern and classic at the same time. I have the Wynton Marsalis album, and can attest that it is a swingin' affair. Much better than an album of Wynton's original compositions (sorry Wynton), which I find to be too often academic.
(The League says: I don't think this is on the album, but diva Kathleen Battle does Christmas with Marsalis and Co., and its worth a listen)
Of all the modern crooner/swinging Christmas records, my favorite has been Diana Krall's "Christmas Songs" from a few years ago. The arrangements are terrific. And I fall in love with her when her voice cracks during "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?"
I don't know that I can add more to what this fella says about the albums, other than to recommend a "buy" on the Spector, Presley, Guaraldi and Sinatra albums. Must-have for ANY Christmas collection. As for the Chipmunks, you'll be okay with the one song. And buy Diana Krall's CD.
(The League Says: Elvis Costello is a wise man.)
Later:
Re: Bob Dylan's "Christmas In the Heart":
Far from the "What the hell?" reaction most people had to this album, I felt Bob Dylan's choice to release a Christmas album to be inspired. Dylan's voice has always been unique, but since "Time Out of Mind," it's lowered into a grizzled drawl. His past few albums have been somewhat inspired by old-timey and regional music (note Dylan's favored Col. Sanders suit and tie, too), and so I feel his present demeanor and style fits within the context of a Christmas record. The arrangements on Christmas in the Heart only amplify the fireside feel. It's like your kind uncle full of eggnog singing.
(The League Says: Here's some of that album!)
By the way, those Christmas song compilations that Target puts out ("Jingle Bell Rock," "A Traditional Christmas, Vol. 1," etc.) every year are great. I always pick some up for half-off after Christmas.
Was Nat King Cole on that guy's list? If not, for shame!!!!
Who are my favorite Christmas song interpreters of all time?
In no particular order:
Nat King Cole
Frank Sinatra
Doris Day
Ella Fitzgerald
Diana Krall
Elvis Presley
(The League Says: For The King, we post video. Respect.)
My favorite Christmas song? Of course, it's Mel Torme's "The Christmas Song." It doesn't order you to deck the halls, to jingle bells, or anything like that. It just reminisces about the many sights, sounds, and smells of the season, and wishes you a Merry Christmas. Which is what we all want, isn't it?
(The League says: We agree that this is absolutely top notch. Here's The Velvet Fog himself)
And Finally:
The Beatles Christmas recordings are charming if you're a big fan of the group. But after 1965's record, they start to get very, very zany, and work better if you're under the influence.
The reviewer used the word "melancholy" to describe "Christmas Time is Here" by Vince Guaraldi. To quote The Princess Bride, "You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means."
And I just checked his list again. He *did* skip Nat King Cole! Heresy!
The League Says:
We've got our own favorites and we'll be back with them soon!
Click here to visit that list.
Do not proceed until you've read the column.
Okay? Okay.
A lot of good stuff in there. I just don't think its Christmas without the Phil Spector Christmas album. Spector may have gone bonkers, but: (a) he knew how to get a great sound (b) he knew talent (c) he knew how to cut a Christmas album and (c) The Ronnettes.
I have many trusted sources when it comes to music, but I figured that I should look to one of our specialists in such matters. Already Mrshl weighed in with recommendations for the Holidays from Sufjan Stevens and Low.
Corpsman NathanC is very knowledgeable about music of many genres, loves Christmas, and, honestly, works in radio. So while you may like your stuff... let's give Nathan a little benefit of the doubt. Man has paid his dues.
Nathan and I had an email correspondence over a few days, and Nathan's end went like this:
Nathan: Okay, so I finally got around to checking out that list. Man, I can find no fault in *any* of those Christmas music picks on the blogger's "main list." My top choices are the Phil Spector album, which captures the essence of Christmas in the big city. It feels very modern and classic at the same time. I have the Wynton Marsalis album, and can attest that it is a swingin' affair. Much better than an album of Wynton's original compositions (sorry Wynton), which I find to be too often academic.
(The League says: I don't think this is on the album, but diva Kathleen Battle does Christmas with Marsalis and Co., and its worth a listen)
Of all the modern crooner/swinging Christmas records, my favorite has been Diana Krall's "Christmas Songs" from a few years ago. The arrangements are terrific. And I fall in love with her when her voice cracks during "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?"
I don't know that I can add more to what this fella says about the albums, other than to recommend a "buy" on the Spector, Presley, Guaraldi and Sinatra albums. Must-have for ANY Christmas collection. As for the Chipmunks, you'll be okay with the one song. And buy Diana Krall's CD.
(The League Says: Elvis Costello is a wise man.)
Later:
Re: Bob Dylan's "Christmas In the Heart":
Far from the "What the hell?" reaction most people had to this album, I felt Bob Dylan's choice to release a Christmas album to be inspired. Dylan's voice has always been unique, but since "Time Out of Mind," it's lowered into a grizzled drawl. His past few albums have been somewhat inspired by old-timey and regional music (note Dylan's favored Col. Sanders suit and tie, too), and so I feel his present demeanor and style fits within the context of a Christmas record. The arrangements on Christmas in the Heart only amplify the fireside feel. It's like your kind uncle full of eggnog singing.
(The League Says: Here's some of that album!)
By the way, those Christmas song compilations that Target puts out ("Jingle Bell Rock," "A Traditional Christmas, Vol. 1," etc.) every year are great. I always pick some up for half-off after Christmas.
Was Nat King Cole on that guy's list? If not, for shame!!!!
Who are my favorite Christmas song interpreters of all time?
In no particular order:
Nat King Cole
Frank Sinatra
Doris Day
Ella Fitzgerald
Diana Krall
Elvis Presley
(The League Says: For The King, we post video. Respect.)
My favorite Christmas song? Of course, it's Mel Torme's "The Christmas Song." It doesn't order you to deck the halls, to jingle bells, or anything like that. It just reminisces about the many sights, sounds, and smells of the season, and wishes you a Merry Christmas. Which is what we all want, isn't it?
(The League says: We agree that this is absolutely top notch. Here's The Velvet Fog himself)
And Finally:
The Beatles Christmas recordings are charming if you're a big fan of the group. But after 1965's record, they start to get very, very zany, and work better if you're under the influence.
The reviewer used the word "melancholy" to describe "Christmas Time is Here" by Vince Guaraldi. To quote The Princess Bride, "You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means."
And I just checked his list again. He *did* skip Nat King Cole! Heresy!
The League Says:
We've got our own favorites and we'll be back with them soon!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Happy Birthday to The Dug/ Pearl Harbor Day
 |
| feliz cumpleanous, a ti |
Well, here's to another fantastic year for Dug and to the heartbreaking loss we faced on this day. Let's celebrate/ mourn!
Monday, August 23, 2010
I once watched "Pump Up The Volume" and talked about it, and then Ransom talked about that
So, thanks to Ransom!
Two years ago I did a post on the 1990 movie "Pump Up the Volume" starring Christian Slater and Young-Ryan-Mind-Boggler: Samantha Mathis-circa-1990.
Anyhow, Sunday was the 20th Anniversary of "Pump Up the Volume" and Ransom wrote a very nice post pointing to my column. And now I'm linking back to ChronSnob, and the cycle is complete.
Two years ago I did a post on the 1990 movie "Pump Up the Volume" starring Christian Slater and Young-Ryan-Mind-Boggler: Samantha Mathis-circa-1990.
Anyhow, Sunday was the 20th Anniversary of "Pump Up the Volume" and Ransom wrote a very nice post pointing to my column. And now I'm linking back to ChronSnob, and the cycle is complete.
Steanso ends old blog, starts new blog
After a lengthy hiatus, my brother and one of the heads on this multi-headed hydra of bloggers with which I've been associated, has shut down operations at The Adventures of Steanso.
Steanso provided a nigh-daily-dose of personal journal and political observation from a Texas Dem's perspective.
I knew, of course, that the blog was on indefinite hiatus and might shut down, and today he kind of at least put it out there that it looked like he was done.
However, he's not quite done with the internets yet. It looks like he's started a new blog to share his musical stylings.
http://logmagsubtrans.blogspot.com/
Sure, the URL reads a bit like a Craigslist person-to-person ad for somebody with a very particular lifestyle, but its short for: Logician Magician Transmission Submission
You can go there now to listen to the first tune he's posted to the site.
Steanso provided a nigh-daily-dose of personal journal and political observation from a Texas Dem's perspective.
I knew, of course, that the blog was on indefinite hiatus and might shut down, and today he kind of at least put it out there that it looked like he was done.
However, he's not quite done with the internets yet. It looks like he's started a new blog to share his musical stylings.
http://logmagsubtrans.blogspot.com/
Sure, the URL reads a bit like a Craigslist person-to-person ad for somebody with a very particular lifestyle, but its short for: Logician Magician Transmission Submission
You can go there now to listen to the first tune he's posted to the site.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Happy Canada Day, Simon!
Yes, today marks the merging of the British colonies in 1867 to form the power we now know as CANADA!!! Happy Canada Day, ya'll!
Our own Signal Corps Captain, Simon, is a maple leaf loving son of a moose. He's nuts for hockey, is unfailingly polite, knows a whole lot about Terry Fox, and pays for everything in Loonies. He is distinctly Canadian.
So let's help him celebrate Canada Day with the finest things Canada has shared with their belligerent jerk neighbors to the south.
Before moving to Cleveland, Superman co-creator Joe Shuster was from Toronto, Ontario. That "American Way" bit was added 15-20 years after the character first appeared.
Our own Signal Corps Captain, Simon, is a maple leaf loving son of a moose. He's nuts for hockey, is unfailingly polite, knows a whole lot about Terry Fox, and pays for everything in Loonies. He is distinctly Canadian.
So let's help him celebrate Canada Day with the finest things Canada has shared with their belligerent jerk neighbors to the south.
Before moving to Cleveland, Superman co-creator Joe Shuster was from Toronto, Ontario. That "American Way" bit was added 15-20 years after the character first appeared.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Happy Birthday, Mysterious M
For the wife of our own Randy, The Mysterious M: Happy Birthday. Today you are getting your favorite things.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Happy Burfday to Randy
In honor of Randy's birthday, we are giving Randy the things he likes best.
Computers
Baptist Bears (who, tragically, are forbidden from dancing)
Pop stars
useful code
comics with monkeys
That girl from "Transformers"
Houstonians
machine guns adorned with Hello Kitty
Peanut butter. Peanut butter all for Randy.
This guy.
Gadgets.
Mrs. Randy, AKA: The Mysterious M
his daughter, Lil M
Computers
Baptist Bears (who, tragically, are forbidden from dancing)
Pop stars
useful code
comics with monkeys
That girl from "Transformers"
Houstonians
machine guns adorned with Hello Kitty
Peanut butter. Peanut butter all for Randy.
This guy.
Gadgets.
Mrs. Randy, AKA: The Mysterious M
his daughter, Lil M
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Nathan C. Dominates Morning TV in San Antonio
Hey, Signal Corps! It's Nathan C.! Marvel as he gets interviewed about the Texas Public Radio summer movie series in San Antonio.
Well done, Mr. Cone.
Well done, Mr. Cone.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
This is so you...
For going on 7 years, Randy has shared links with Ransom and myself, often with the subject line "This is so (insert either Ryan or Ransom)".
He's now turned that link service into a blog!
This Is So You aka: Links for Ransom and Ryan S..
He's now turned that link service into a blog!
This Is So You aka: Links for Ransom and Ryan S..
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Why I Think Superman is Cool - A Guest Post by CanadianSimon
Hey, Signal Corps! As I mentioned, I'm out of pocket for a few days. In the meantime, CanadianSimon has sent along a post. And its not just Superman related (always a plus), its also a very personal piece.
I haven't done too many Guest Posts, but if this works out (and I think Simon's post worked out very well), we could make this a recurring feature. Please comment, be nice, and I'll be back next week.
Without further ado, here's Simon's post:
It has been said that comics are one of the two forms of art created in America, the second being Jazz, but where did the idea for these costumed super heroes come from? Surely the idea for space aliens, magic wish fulfillment rings and scientists who transform into monsters must be original in nature. As we all know, there are no new ideas. Rather today's comic book super heroes have their roots firmly planted in the mythos of the past. In the case of Ryan's favourite hero, Superman, we will see that the inspiration for this character goes back well over 3000 years.
Anecdotally I think a lot of people associate Superman with Jesus Christ. Even the Wachoski brothers make allusions to this in the Matrix trilogy where Neo, played by Keaneau Reeves,the series Christ like figure is purposefully given a costume the ripples like Superman's cape in the second and third movies. While Neo, Superman and Christ are all messiah figures, Superman was not based on Christ.
You see messiah is a very old term which means anointed. Typically it is used to describe a leader anointed by God. I doubt that two young men of Jewish decent, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, intended for Superman to be a metaphor for Jesus. Instead they were thinking just a bit farther back in the old testament, or Torah, of Moses. Both Moses and Superman follow the Talmudic injunction where you shall do good for goods sake. Can you imagine a being of Superman's immense power? Why would he bother to help out us puny humans unless he was truly anointed by God.
If you remember the story of Moses the only way that his family thought he could be saved was by letting him be adopted. At the time the Pharaoh had instructed that male Hebrew children would be killed by drowning in the Nile. His family put him a basket a sailed him down the river Nile where he was found and adopted by the daughter of the Pharaoh. Moses went on to be a great leader of men.
This is very much like Superman's origin where Jor-el and Lara put him into a rocket ship and sent him to earth where he was adopted by the Kent's. Of course the destruction of Krypton basically wiped out the entire population of Krypton which is different than what was happening to Hebrew children during Moses time but it does mirror the sentiment that American Jews were feeling as the holocaust was happening in Europe. One might also point out the similarities of Superman's flight to Earth with that of Jewish children being sent away from Germany, Austria, Poland in the Kindertransport in the months leading up to World War II.
Additionally the name "Superman" or Übermensch was originally coined by Friedrich Nietzsche in his book Thus Spoke Zarathustra. The Nazi party of Germany co-opted the term of Ubermensch during World War II. In turned this caused Jerry Siegel to create a villainous character modelled after the Nietzsche ideal man. Later Joe Shuster suggested creating a hero with the name of Superman partly to tweak the nose of the Nazis.
Adoption also plays a major part in Superman's story. He yearns to discover his true identity and to become connected to this world. No matter what he does he never truly fits in because he is an alien. In comics Superman is an alien from another planet but that is more of an allegory for the alienation that adopted children feel. As an adopted child I can sympathize with him on this point. I have the most wonderful adopted parents who rival Ma and Pa Kent for the amazing upbringing and opportunities they have given me. However, sometimes I wonder about the who, the what and the why of my birth parents so I identify strongly with Superman's search for identity. Note: I've never tried to find out or ask about my birth parents and I probably never will. I just don't need that information to be happy but the wondering is still there lurking waiting to jump out at me when I'm feeling scared or alone.
So while some people may think that Superman can be a lame character the core ideas put into this fictional creation are extremely strong. He was based on Moses. He was intended to be something for Jewish children to look up to. He was always supposed to be fighting the Nazi's even though the comic company would not let him do so until after America entered World War II. Finally he is a role model for adopted children everywhere.
That is why Superman is cool to me.
Thanks so much, Simon!
I sincerely appreciate Simon stepping in to help out, and I hope we can have other, similar fill-in columns in the future.
Simon doesn't just leave comments on strange Texan comic geeks' blogs. He's a writer, developer and consumer of coffee. You can read CanadianSimon's blog at http://SimonMacDonald.blogspot.com
I haven't done too many Guest Posts, but if this works out (and I think Simon's post worked out very well), we could make this a recurring feature. Please comment, be nice, and I'll be back next week.
Without further ado, here's Simon's post:
It has been said that comics are one of the two forms of art created in America, the second being Jazz, but where did the idea for these costumed super heroes come from? Surely the idea for space aliens, magic wish fulfillment rings and scientists who transform into monsters must be original in nature. As we all know, there are no new ideas. Rather today's comic book super heroes have their roots firmly planted in the mythos of the past. In the case of Ryan's favourite hero, Superman, we will see that the inspiration for this character goes back well over 3000 years.
Anecdotally I think a lot of people associate Superman with Jesus Christ. Even the Wachoski brothers make allusions to this in the Matrix trilogy where Neo, played by Keaneau Reeves,the series Christ like figure is purposefully given a costume the ripples like Superman's cape in the second and third movies. While Neo, Superman and Christ are all messiah figures, Superman was not based on Christ.
You see messiah is a very old term which means anointed. Typically it is used to describe a leader anointed by God. I doubt that two young men of Jewish decent, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, intended for Superman to be a metaphor for Jesus. Instead they were thinking just a bit farther back in the old testament, or Torah, of Moses. Both Moses and Superman follow the Talmudic injunction where you shall do good for goods sake. Can you imagine a being of Superman's immense power? Why would he bother to help out us puny humans unless he was truly anointed by God.
If you remember the story of Moses the only way that his family thought he could be saved was by letting him be adopted. At the time the Pharaoh had instructed that male Hebrew children would be killed by drowning in the Nile. His family put him a basket a sailed him down the river Nile where he was found and adopted by the daughter of the Pharaoh. Moses went on to be a great leader of men.
This is very much like Superman's origin where Jor-el and Lara put him into a rocket ship and sent him to earth where he was adopted by the Kent's. Of course the destruction of Krypton basically wiped out the entire population of Krypton which is different than what was happening to Hebrew children during Moses time but it does mirror the sentiment that American Jews were feeling as the holocaust was happening in Europe. One might also point out the similarities of Superman's flight to Earth with that of Jewish children being sent away from Germany, Austria, Poland in the Kindertransport in the months leading up to World War II.
Additionally the name "Superman" or Übermensch was originally coined by Friedrich Nietzsche in his book Thus Spoke Zarathustra. The Nazi party of Germany co-opted the term of Ubermensch during World War II. In turned this caused Jerry Siegel to create a villainous character modelled after the Nietzsche ideal man. Later Joe Shuster suggested creating a hero with the name of Superman partly to tweak the nose of the Nazis.
Adoption also plays a major part in Superman's story. He yearns to discover his true identity and to become connected to this world. No matter what he does he never truly fits in because he is an alien. In comics Superman is an alien from another planet but that is more of an allegory for the alienation that adopted children feel. As an adopted child I can sympathize with him on this point. I have the most wonderful adopted parents who rival Ma and Pa Kent for the amazing upbringing and opportunities they have given me. However, sometimes I wonder about the who, the what and the why of my birth parents so I identify strongly with Superman's search for identity. Note: I've never tried to find out or ask about my birth parents and I probably never will. I just don't need that information to be happy but the wondering is still there lurking waiting to jump out at me when I'm feeling scared or alone.
So while some people may think that Superman can be a lame character the core ideas put into this fictional creation are extremely strong. He was based on Moses. He was intended to be something for Jewish children to look up to. He was always supposed to be fighting the Nazi's even though the comic company would not let him do so until after America entered World War II. Finally he is a role model for adopted children everywhere.
That is why Superman is cool to me.
Thanks so much, Simon!
I sincerely appreciate Simon stepping in to help out, and I hope we can have other, similar fill-in columns in the future.
Simon doesn't just leave comments on strange Texan comic geeks' blogs. He's a writer, developer and consumer of coffee. You can read CanadianSimon's blog at http://SimonMacDonald.blogspot.com
Sunday, May 16, 2010
A&W Rootbeer BBQ Sauce Taste Test: With 100% More PaulT!
Click over to Troubles McSteans for the 3rd in our series of soda-flavored taste tests!
This time, we involve PaulT and his partner in crime, The Lovely Erintm.
It's the last soda BBQ taste test, but thanks to Randy, we now have a new bacon-riffic taste test ahead of us.
This time, we involve PaulT and his partner in crime, The Lovely Erintm.
It's the last soda BBQ taste test, but thanks to Randy, we now have a new bacon-riffic taste test ahead of us.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Signal Watch Cinema Series
Looking at the Paramount Summer Series, I was wondering if anyone wanted to look at the calendar and start figuring out some screenings to take in. This is just for early June, but if you see something at the Paramount you know you want to catch, let me know.
I will be be seeing: Shane, Giant, The Last Picture Show, the Adventures of Robin Hood (which is an insanely good movie), and many more. Email or post to comments so we can get organized!
Screenings I'm considering at the Paramount:
FUN WITH NICK & NORA
Tues-Wed, May 25-26
ANOTHER THIN MAN 7 Tues;
THE THIN MAN GOES HOME 7 Wed.
KAZAN & BRANDO
Sat-Sun, May 29-30
A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE 4:55 Sat; or 2 Sun.
ON THE WATERFRONT 4:30 Sun.
in early June
HITCHCOCK!
Tues- Wed & Sun, June 1-2 & 6
PSYCHO 7:20 Sun
BATMAN -- IN PERSON!! (I already have tickets to this event, or should be receiving them, anyway. Get your early!)
Sunday, June 6
BATMAN 2 pm Sun.
Screenings at The Alamo:
June 6 - STAGECOACH, w/ lecture and Q&A (6:30 pm)
I know. Its right after the Batman event, but...
and around the 24th... they're doing an "Anchorman" quote-a-long. One of my favorite movies ever, so... may try to do that.
I will be be seeing: Shane, Giant, The Last Picture Show, the Adventures of Robin Hood (which is an insanely good movie), and many more. Email or post to comments so we can get organized!
Screenings I'm considering at the Paramount:
FUN WITH NICK & NORA
Tues-Wed, May 25-26
ANOTHER THIN MAN 7 Tues;
THE THIN MAN GOES HOME 7 Wed.
KAZAN & BRANDO
Sat-Sun, May 29-30
A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE 4:55 Sat; or 2 Sun.
ON THE WATERFRONT 4:30 Sun.
in early June
HITCHCOCK!
Tues- Wed & Sun, June 1-2 & 6
PSYCHO 7:20 Sun
BATMAN -- IN PERSON!! (I already have tickets to this event, or should be receiving them, anyway. Get your early!)
Sunday, June 6
BATMAN 2 pm Sun.
Screenings at The Alamo:
June 6 - STAGECOACH, w/ lecture and Q&A (6:30 pm)
I know. Its right after the Batman event, but...
and around the 24th... they're doing an "Anchorman" quote-a-long. One of my favorite movies ever, so... may try to do that.
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