raise up with fists

08-08

2008-08-31T15:33:00.010-04:00

Wow, talk about a hiatus, huh? One would think nothing of note occurred during the month of August; that RUWF and her family and friends found themselves in a stalemate as the culmination of summer crept upon us. Well, I apologize to have led you all astray these past few weeks because, to the contrary, there have been a number of point changes and highlights worthy of bringing to your attention.

For starters, Liana, prego with her second dose of "trouble", and Marley returned to the east coast, which included a visit to Wolfeboro with Mars' Nana (Mama Sue), Pop-pop, Nan, Aunty D, Great-Aunt Bella, Robbie, Sam & Misty and 2nd cousin Ariana. Mars explored the trampoline with Ari (allotting time between bounces to offer some sound jumping advice), indulged in Nan's famous hand-picked blueberry muffins (hand-picked muffins, now that would be something), challenged Pop-pop to a face-off (that 18+ month old jaw has to be double jointed), and practiced delivering her favorite words: baby, Ahwie (Ari), mama, dowwwwn and di-di (Zoey).

Speaking of Zoe-bear, Mama Sue and Franko have become her new proud care-takers. For those unfamiliar with Zoey, Jamie and Liana's first baby, she is part black Lab, part Doberman and, I'm no mathematician, but I'm going with 110% lap dog.

Soon after Liana and Mars' departure, Owen also decided to fly 3000+ miles to pay New England a visit (just to even the stakes). The Brit got tossed into the fire but, not surprisingly, no manipulation was necessary to achieve a roaring end product. Together, Owen and I managed to successfully check off the Cape, Boston, Cambridge, Milton, Wolfeboro, NH, Arlington, VT, and the Berkshires (including a town named after Owen's heritage: Lee) in 5 days. On the second day of our road trip, Owen received a call from his brother in England notifying him of his new official uncle status. Jane delivered a healthy girl, Megan Ann, on August 20th, who could be found days later with a Red Sox teddy by her side. A girl after our own hearts, eh? But before Uncle O hopped his flight to London, he had won the hearts of more than one Bostonian. Parents, aunts, roommates, high school and uni friends, as well as a select few PTown goers, were shocked that RUWF unearthed such a gem and are already requesting an encore visit. Is a person considered a legend if he continues to be the subject of many a conversation weeks after he is removed from the scene? Thais, Marc and I are headed to Italy over Thanksgiving to verify that this label holds true (and maybe do some leather goods shopping and pizza consuming, but that's just on the side!).

In other news, long-time good friend Lauren Bowe announced her engagement to Dan Hover yesterday morning! Without questions (or complaints), Lauren was awoken at 5:30 to take a bike ride to the nearby beach in Salem. The pier on which they perched, the beach from which the rocks escaped and the expanse of water into which the rocks emerged, were absent of people and extraneous noises. Dan presented Lauren with a hand written heartfelt poem as well as a BEAUTIFUL ring for her to wear always. Congratulations Lauren and Dan!

King Khan

2008-08-05T00:04:00.007-04:00

How do you describe psychedelic funk? I think you have to be witness to King Khan and the Shrines' stage act to gain a full understanding but let me open the door a crack for you...

Sun Ra and his 8 person entourage prepared to dominate the Middle East just shy of midnight last week. This Canadian bred (although you wouldn't speculate from his appearance or the lack of "ay"s in his speech) vocalist and comic set the precedence for the sold-out show with his pimp cane, black nylon cape and bejeweled headpiece as he molested the mic with the commencement of the opening number. He was accompanied by a pair of young probable Berklee-descendant trumpists who could harldy contain their amusement, a spellbound organist in competition for most perspiring grunge rocker who raised and manipulated his instrument for all to hail, a black guy dawning a pirate hat and a silly grin plastered to his face tucked in the corner of the stage, a long silver haired (accented with a purplish hue) drummer straight out of One Flew Over the Coo Coo's Nest who held post sans expression, a guitarist who resembled a spooky owl (I wonder if his occipital lobe is proportionate in size to his eye sockets), an Asian trophy cheerleader adorned with sequence and pom-poms, master of the "ooh-ahh" faces a mother makes whilst coaxing her baby to smile, and lastly, a lean fella wearing an over-sized costume chicken head ready to rumble with Sun Ra (or whomever he may trip over due to the displaced eye cut-outs).

As Marc Stuart commented, the product of this ensemble was analogous to a soundtrack for a 70's car chase movie (Smokey and the Bandit perhaps). Sun Ra hypnotized the audience with any given song: the interactive throng of listeners were forking over dollar bills to be burned on stage while reciting "here's to welfare", answering a gospel call with "ya, ya yas" and chanting "ass ass titties titties" in unison with their leader. Meanwhile, members of the band dove off stage, showered nearby heads with beer, sang through Freddie Cougar-esk masks and threw down with the hybrid chicken-man. Sun Ra concludes one of the chicken fights with, "You're a f'n chicken..I'm a human being" with the inflection and deliverance not unlike Mitch Hedberg (sure to get a smirk out of anyone). As Thursday's early morning hours crept up on us, Sun Ra held stage in his undies; time to depart.

Sweat hung in the air. Bodies rocked in sync. Raw, exuberant, distasteful, offensive...and highly recommended.

Glorious

2008-08-04T00:24:00.001-04:00

Well I don't mean to gloat but I'm a friggin RN!! It only took 2 years, 1 month and 18 days of nursing school. Phew. Looks like I can start getting excited about taking the next 2 board exams less than a year from now... Naaah, isn't living in the moment precious? (By the way, if anyone would like to inform me of any part-time gigs in the area, that'd be delightful...I'm having difficulty recalling what a paycheck smells like at the moment.)

And while we're on the topic of sweet victory, I'd like to share with you all some documented news: Dan Hunt and I have won this year's Stamp Act challenge (only because Casey's time was deemed unofficial due to the lack of estrogen on the team. Aren't we lucky?!). Whitey and Skwar followed closely behind with Thais and Marc (our rookies who rose fearlessly (well ok not maybe not fearlessly but they still rose) to the challenge and even sported matching water shoes to fend off those nasty jagged rocks and floating tree stumps encircling the island)) pulling up the rear.

Horror stories were spared but to no avail; history unveiled itself in the photos mounted on the Ftoreks' walls. As the starting time drew near, joints stiffened, and sebaceous glands functioned hyperactively. First was the beach jaunt to claim the sharpest canoe that would cut the water like a pair of scissors. The run around the island, come to find out, was 2.27 miles before paddling back to the beach. An hour and half, a few sizable gashes and multitude of sore muscles later, the celebration ensued with a follow-up whiffle ball game, a round of Cranium, grilling and balance board try-outs in the gazebo.

It was a hell of a day at sea sir. (Anyone name it??)

Must See Shows

2008-07-23T09:35:00.006-04:00

The MFA is hosting several ear-catching performers as part of their summer courtyard series. Some artists that are worth exploring include:

Bon Iver with Bowerbirds - lead singer Justin Vernon's tale of transplanting himself to an isolated cabin in Wisconsin and unintentionally refocusing his musical frame of thought, is nearly inspiring enough but if you're looking for additional incentive to witness these performers together, what you'll pay for is fluid and dreamy vocals atop subdued, yet complementary, orchestral accompaniment. A particular favorite is "Skinny Love" which you can check out over at Bon Iver's link. Bon Iver and the Bowerbirds play at Remis Auditorium this Saturday, July 26.

Vetiver and Phosphorescent - an indie folk group who attempts to harmonize a cello with an acoustic guitar and a violin, all the while successfully narrating a story - take Remis Auditorium by storm August 1. The release of their new album, Thing of the Past, a compilation of choice covers, brings renewed fervor and energy in which listeners may delight.

Tift Merritt with Jason Collett of Broken Social Scene - USA Today harps that Tift is "a charming blend of country, rock, and Southern R&B", while Jason has proven to be a pivotal and enduring figure in the Indie scene as evidenced by his hit "Out of Time"and by his ability to maintain his mark for over 10 years now perfecting his Indie-turn-raw-rock n' roll style - will play in the courtyard Aug 6.

Of note at the MFA is also the French Film Festival that concludes this Sunday July 27, which will be followed up by the Roxbury Film Festival and the New Japanese Cinema come August. If you haven't stopped by for a French film showing yet, Thais recommends Woody Allen's Shall We Kiss, which plays one last time on closing night. Audrey Tatou, star of RUWF's favorite Amelie as well as The Da Vinci Code, can also be seen in Hunting and Gathering July 26.

Memorable Destinations

2008-07-09T17:54:00.002-04:00

Musical bliss

2008-06-30T23:23:00.008-04:00

Well it's been quite the harmonious week here in Boston folks. I was lucky enough to be present at four unbelievable and wildly varying acoustic sets - "best of jazz" at Symphony Hall, Dave Matthews, Josh Ritter with the BSO and Pearl Jam!

Close friend of the family and recent inhabitant of Boston, Brie Bidart, thoughtfully invited me to see a tribute to the late John Birks (Dizzie Gillespie) featuring a slideshow narrated with music from the Pops, followed by a performance by the Dizzy Gillespie All-Stars comprised of James Moody, Slide Hampton, Claudio Roditi, John Lee, Lewis Nash, and Cyrus Chestnut, each with his own flare and bebop style. (Worthy of note: our balcony seats hovered just north of the stage so we could witness each band member's detailed expression, every pic of the strings, every glint of brass and each awe-inspired face below!) Of particular interest to me was Claudio on trumpet. So honored and humbled was he to be, not only a member of the band, but in collaboration with the Boston Pops. Even as his trumpet gadget (distorter I believe) hit the ground during the peak of an exhilarating solo, Claudio remained composed and lighthearted, later incorporating the mishap into a few jokes, eliciting chuckles from his on-lookers.

Dave performed on a Tuesday night with impeccable timing; just as the last of the heavy rain that had saturated the tailgaters (whose canopies were seized in some cases due to the new Comcast regulations) ceased. Hoards of teenagers roamed the lots. Most were sucking face (like the romantic spin on that one?), relieving themselves on cars, having their 30-packs confiscated and being taken away on security golf carts (I wouldn't be too broken up about that if I were still in HS I'll admit). Although these events received top scores on the pre-show entertainment scale, they also made me feel aged by no less than 10 years. When we made it to our seats, it all came together. This is why I jumped on those last minute tickets! Dave and his band played a tremendous show. The lighting and stage set were complex and spectacular with clear close-ups of the performers. The majority of the set list included songs from their album that is due to be released this July. However, following the same groove and jam mentality of some of DMB's other songs, it seemed as if the audience hardly took note that they themselves didn't know the actual lyrics. One peculiar moment that stuck with me after the concert concluded was the bit where Dave speaks to the crowd (apart from thanking everyone). He told a rather off-colored story about a monkey he saw while visiting his homeland of South Africa, describing the monkey's blue "Frank" and red "Beans" before launching into "Proudest Monkey." It was difficult to decipher where the story was going for the first 15 seconds but I suppose we can't discredit him for creativity!

The following Friday I revisited Symphony Hall to see Josh Ritter take stage. I had been forewarned that Ritter sometimes dawns a much talked about white suit whilst setting the precedence for his show, however, in this case, he took the stage solo dressed in nearly all black. What does this tell us guys? Well, I'm still not sure because it didn't foretell his mood that night. Although Ritter played a number of subdued songs, he maintained his usual ear to ear grin throughout the evening. With some elaborate foot work and spin moves, Ritter summoned the audience to bring on the noise, whether it was a synchronous clapping or a chiming in for the chorus. At one point, a violinist from the supporting orchestra teamed up with Ritter on acoustic guitar to play "Thin Blue Flame", which deservingly received the first of several standing ovations of the night (while the violinist received a great big bear hug from Ritter). Midway through the hour and half performance, Ritter passed the mic off to Robert Pinksy who proceeded to read 2 "Poems of Desire". His artistic recital did not evoke the same response from the crowd as most viewers were thrown off by this interlude, but it was a heartfelt moment for both Pinksy and Ritter. Two encores and a grand finale of a sing-along later, Ritter rattled off a laundry list of sincere thank yous fearful of forgetting anyone who made his appearance at Symphony Hall possible, and the audience exited the building with "Empty Heart" ringing in their heads.

Josh's return appearance on Letterman this past winter.

Pearl Jam was a band I hadn't seen since 2002. They have since been the subject of much hype and buzz, protesting Ticketmaster's escalated prices to the public, (canceling tour dates even) and joining forces with Verizon, to which Scottie makes mention here, in order to make their music more accessible to today's youth. Mansfield, being the last stop on PJ's 2008 tour, was crawling with long time fanatics and brimming with more energy than I can (or care to) remember. Luckily Jessie Capp scored tickets and was kind enough to bring me along to what I can confidently declare as my all-time favorite concert to date (U2 falling just shy to PJ and then maybe Arcade Fire - I know, Arcade Fire does not carry the same magnitude or weight as the aforementioned classics but they are phenomenal and soul stirring nonetheless)... Vedder balanced the set list between intimate and pensive and raging and electric. In fact he had quite the theatrical performance; from running leaps off of the sound system display, to air guitar splits, to lengthy jam sessions (he was not alone on this one) to ripping butts between songs and throwing plastic bottles at the stage props; Vedder completely owned the stage and the audience for that matter. Breaking briefly to dig on the Marine recruitment stations within the venue and making cutting remarks towards the war itself, Vedder could say or do no wrong in the eyes of his fellow worshipers. A true rock concert indeed, Pearl Jam had everyone on their feet from 8:30 to close (11:00) singing along, and on numerous occasions, singing nearly half of a song in unison before the accompaniment of Vedder on the mic (Better Man in particular stands out in my mind). As PJ wrapped up the evening with "Why Go Home", the thousands chanting along were questioning just that.

Not of the greatest quality but here's a clip of Better Man from the other night to give you a sense of the crowd's involvement.

2008-06-20T15:19:00.010-04:00

First of all, my apologies to anyone who tried to have a listen to the song mentioned in the previous entry (at my request). I appreciate your efforts and I promise I did not intentionally deny you access (silly/glutenous iTunes regulations). It is worth checking out, if only for 30 seconds' worth of a sample.

Secondly, my weekend escapade to Aix en Provence was something out of a film (A Good Year perhaps). In just a brief few days I was introduced to the French countryside with rolling greenery and endless vineyards, petite, tucked away villages with cobblestone streets and quaint French cuisine restaurants, skinny (like most women's pants) interwoven streets consisting of dated architectural buildings (framed with classic sand washed shutters) that seemed to embrace the sun's light at the most picturesque angles, the city's bustling center brimming with boutiques, charming markets (displaying both material and edible goods), women in free-flowing sundresses and men in their business suits with beads of sweat adorning their brow, easily whisked away by a tepid breeze, and the remote island of Porquerolles offering tandem mountain biking as their premium mode of transportation (what could be better?!). (That may just be the longest run-on sentence I've created since 3rd grade.)

My future humble yet magnificent chateau sits on the grounds of a vineyard just adjacent to the owner's 10-rooms-too-many living quarters. It appears to be currently occupied by a lovely young couple at the moment but we'll check back next decade and see where we stand, shall we? I've also developed an affinity for the French dining etiquette. Five course meals including cheese and dessert plates as their own meals!! (However, I could probably do without the pigeon and duck souffle.) Until this point, I believed that my Boston driving skills would've prepared me to be successfully and efficiently mobile in any region. It turns out, (as hard as it is for me to admit) the French may have something on me. Then again, I didn't see one 5-0 in sight. If that were the case here, who knows what would ensue...

I want to send my sincere gratitude to Indy for doing an all-star job hosting me this weekend. You're ok with staying in a Holiday Inn and dining at McDonald's when you come over to visit, right? I mean, it's only fair...

Je ne te connais pas

2008-06-10T21:49:00.004-04:00

So that Indy character I've been referring to as of late has naively invited me to his French abode for the weekend. Whaattt? It's make or break time folks. Let's take a leap of faith from the lion's mouth (as Harrison would say)... or just board the plane and hope it lands on foreign soil (preferrably in Marseille, France but who are we to be choosy?)
Here's a French tune to set the mood; one for those who employ fist-pumping as their mode of dance and one that comes highly recommended by Mama Sue who has enlightened me that the lyrics depict the story of a drunk man who fails to remember his female companion's name from the beginning through the end of their encounter. I guess it doesn't hurt to set the bar low, right??

Turkey for me, Turkey for you

2008-06-02T11:50:00.005-04:00

Let's eat the Turkey in my big brown shoe.

Not that kind of turkey? Ohh, you must be referring to the transcontinental excursion on which Noel and I endeavored (just about a month ago now, yikes I'm a slacker). Got it! Well, since you inquire (FB), I would love to impart with you all a few noteworthy tales about our trip. Better yet, don't they say pictures speak a thousand words?

As you'll see Noel and I teamed up with 2 thoroughly entertaining Brits, Indy and the Monk, for the 1st half of our trip. We piled into the Ford Focus which accumulated some 2000 miles over the course of our journey from Istanbul to Safranbolu on the northern coast, hitting central Cappadocia, touching upon Konya province (comprised of mostly ghost towns with one listed hotel in a 50 mile radius) and shredding air until we finally reached Olympos (home of the treehouses and wagonwheel complexes), situated on the southern coast.

Bahaus hostel, our first sample of the Turkish culture and a backpacker's safe haven, became our home for the first couple of nights in Istanbul. We arrived shortly after Anzac Day, commemorating the battle between Turkey and Australia, so, as one would imagine, the area was grossly populated with Aussies. Although we Americans were outnumbered, we received assurance on more than one occasion that there was a special place in the Turkish heart for Americans (contrary to beliefs some of us may have held/do hold about our perception in the Middle East). The native people were so amenable to tourists (from around the world) that it was difficult not to feel suspicious at times. Advice, directions, guidance and transportation were offered at the drop of a hat (from where does this experession stem? anyone?) and with no monetary supplement expected.

Noel and I took a Bosphorus River cruise (which divides the European side of Istanbul from the Asian), bought spices and Turkish Delight (gooey deliciousness interspersed with nuts) at the Spice Bizarre and wrist sweat bands and silk scarves from the Grand Bizarre, wined and dined at some of the local restaurants and pubs (where we managed to get barricaded in in an effort to escape the po-po) and lavished ourselves with a Turkish bath and massage (a long extinct Turkish tradition that still (surpise!) brings in excellent revenue from tourists) while in Istanbul. I do feel I need to elaborate on the Turkish bath experience some. Having received no instruction aside from where to undress, Noel and I instinctively retreated back to our school girl days with our towels tucked neatly under our arms as we entered a sauna filled with 20-25 clothes-less women strewn about on a circular stone platform in the center like slabs of meat on a grill. It appeared that they were sunbathing without realizing they were indoors. Rather rotund Turkish women (impossible not to take note of) would splash water on you, which was your cue that your number was up. Nonverbal language sufficed for this part of the bathing; a finger, a slap, a pull of the hand and you were anything but disobeying. I felt like a 5 year old again and probably the cleanest I'll ever feel in my life.

Our next stop was Safranbolu, the most popular tourist town for Turks. With little to see or do aside from a mosque and some cobblestone streets lined with family-run markets (targeting mainly 10 year olds; similar to suks one may happen across in Marrakesh), we continued onto Cappadocia. This is about when I stole the hot seat. And, since I had never learned how to handle a stick, Indy (aka Owen) was my impeccable driving instructor. Success! (Minus a few bumps in the road later in the trip when I hit a town inundated with traffic lights that were partial to the color red...)

Cappadocia is a region denoted by volcanic deposits and rocks, from which villages were later carved. We chose to spend our night in Goreme which was littered with what are referred to as "fairy chimneys", hundreds of pillars and minaret-like (fallic as Noel deemed them) rock forms. As many residents had transformed the caves into a place of inhabitance, we found it fitting to stay in a plastered hostel resembling such. In Goreme we were able to attend a "Turkish Night" where twirling dervishes and belly dancers entertained tourists whilst they ate tapas and drank Raki (a potent and acidic-tasting libation). Our carpeted van ride back into town put us in touch with our favorite gay traveler, Tom, who took the entertainment reigns for the remainder of the evening. At 5am we got ready to take a surreal hot-air balloon ride (or hover rather) above the magnificent pillars. Before we departed Goreme, the gang visited the open air museum which contained churches and homes carved out of rock and decorated with frescoes and ancient biblical illustrations. Sadly, graffiti marked many of the walls of these Lycian ruins (due to the lack of funding for preservation and upkeep). We also toured an 8-story underground city dating back 4500 years ago that held up to 5000 people. These people did their share of wine drinking when they weren't defending themselves from invaders (they even had an Indiana Jones circular stone that rolled into place at the release of a lever to serve as an entry blockade from any attackers). It’s incredible to imagine living in such tight (claustrophobia-inducing) quarters, crouching through tunnels, sleeping on stone surfaces and defecating in non-ventilated quarters, isn't it?

Time to continue our journey. With a reprieve (stopping off at a hotel, a rarity in Konya provence as aforementioned) from driving along unlit mountainous and winding roads (not unlike Lombard St in San Francisco), we landed at our destination; Olympus. I should mention that during our evening travels (with me as a less than superior navigator) we were pulled over at a random checking point. The police were purposively checking for Iraqis who may be sneaking across the border. However, with an undeniable language barrier, we received a disappointed curled-lipped face and awaited a possible English speaking officer to attend to us. As he approached the window, the only words exchanged were “good-bye”. Curt and concise (minus any cuffs), I’ll take it.

The Kadir treehouse village greeted us with vagabond workers and log laden dormitories and bars amidst rolling mountains. The rocky beach, within 2 minute’s walking distance, was surprisingly more comfortable to sprawl on than to traverse (which didn’t take long to discover). The “Bull bar” at the treehouse complex provided endless amusement with a fire pit and free-spirited dancers (namely Noel and Whyte, the bartender). For my birthday night, I received a caramel hostess cupcake complete with a sparkler and thoughtfully scripted inspiring words from my fellow cohorts. We witnessed the eternal flames (an hour ride from our site and a half an hour hike) with a bottle of champagne complements of Indy and the Monk. In case anyone was wondering, the flames are not resistant against water…and walking down a mountain in the dark without the aid of a flashlight will most likely end with a sprained ankle. Noel, being a Fairfield U graduate was very familiar with the idea of “stealing a birthday”, which does not commonly infer a negative connotation despite the typical use of the verb in this phrase. And so, as tradition would have it, Noel “black out” Barnes received a branding unlike those most eyes have seen before (one that Aussies refer to as a “vacuum marker”), thereby claiming May 7th as her own.

Leaving the treehouses and our newly established travel companions (and let’s not forget Freddie the Focus) proved to be more of a difficult task than anticipated. The only thing to which we looked forward was the possibility of hot showers in our near future. We boarded our schooner with 11 others for a 4 day venture around a small peninsula that culminated with the town of Fethiye. The water was not hot, nor was it warm, and the septic system was not functioning to the best of its ability, nor was it preventing feces from overflowing onto the bathroom floors, BUT the boat did offer plenty of opportunity to sun bathe and sleep on the deck as the sun emerged over the horizon.

As we docked for the last time, Noel and I faced a series of decisions that ultimately, after making plans with different Turks to hit the town that night, getting a hostel room and canceling it, buying plane tickets to Istanbul and voiding them, we boarded an overnight bus (not the one that we bought tickets for of course but the one adjacent to it) for a 14 hour ride to Istanbul, to Bahaus hostel in fact. For our last night we managed to meet up with a friend’s younger sister studying in the city (despite having a consistent mode of communication, like say a phone) to carry out the ultimate dance revolution.

Turkey was a place of fascinating and inspiring people, rich and unfolding history and incredible and memorable adventures. There are too many details to relay in this entry but if you’ve made it to this point, I thank you for taking the time to read my ramblings! Serefe (cheers)!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

4.28.08: A change of seasons

2008-04-28T12:43:00.004-04:00

Thais "T-dawg/Tae-bo/Tevo" Baldini celebrates her claim to fame today: the day she entered the world (N. Korea specifically). As Betsy and Jim would have it, Thais moved to Milton in the 7th grade (a mere 2 streets over from the McCabe residence) to became the cool new chick with the longest hair ever to be witnessed swinging through Pierce's corridors and champion stare-contest holder.

Thais' hair trends have varied accordingly (as determined by the fashion times), her eyes have remained captivating (especially when hidden behind dark-tinted sunglasses) and her personal records have multiplied exponentially since 1995. She is currently the most frequent traveler Wichita, KS has seen in decades, so clutter-free that she's created an organizational company for those who are not able to get rid of their own crap, the best thing to happen to plenty of gay men (no zing intended there Marc) and Rhode Island's most creative party planner... which leads to the inevitable question: who's planning Thais' party?

Guess we'll have to stay tuned until her return from Puerto Rico! Happy birthday T!

Health Insurance

2008-04-14T20:35:00.003-04:00

So, as I will officially be uninsured for the umpteenth time as this month draws to a close, I thought I'd share a relevant, yet alarming article that was in today's NY Times. It discusses the introduction of a new system for co-payment pricing. And, quite frankly, it is absurd.

Initially, this system (called Tier 4) was limited to Medicare insurance programs but as of late employers and private insurers are also adopting the plan. If people suffering from ailments that can only be treated with expensive brand name drugs (as opposed to a cheaper generic versions) are paying 20-33% of the cost of their medications rather than a fixed $10 - $40 co-pay, it lessens the blow for other subscribers of the plan. Therefore, as one health care provider interpreted it, "the more the sick person pays, the less the healthy person pays". Here's to social justice, huh? Talk about throwing salt on your wounds. Not only are you going to carry the weight of an illness, but you're going to bear the burden of cost too. (Sadly that's going to deliver more of a bite than salt ever could.)

11 April

2008-04-07T14:56:00.003-04:00

Plans this Friday? No? Well if you're into checking out intimate, laid-back venues with a great selection of music (and brews), head over to the Lizard Lounge between Harvard and Porter Sq. at 9pm to support performers John Doney and Evan LaFlamme. Doney has been writing some new material, of which we will hopefully hear a taste. There is rumor that there may even be cd's for distribution! The duo will be opening up for the band Hi8us, whose keyboardist and saxophonist, Mike Rakusin, I've known for a few years now. Mike also does stand-up comedy so if the music isn't what you were looking for maybe it will still be entertaining...

March Madness

2008-04-07T13:32:00.002-04:00

Back to catching up on last month (now that school is on a gradual deceleration as far as workload is concerned). In hindsight, March proved to be quite the Fairfield alum month. J-Ro and Noel had a crash stay in Boston the weekend approaching Paddy's Day. Noel delighted in getting kidnapped by none other than Jessie K, while JRo and I participated in a sober game of quarters late night. Taking into account both the hour and the principle of staying hydrated in preparation for a 10am race, quarters with water was surprisingly entertaining. I took the opportunity to perfect my game, which, let's not beat around the bush, was pretty pathetic given such a simple concept.

My former FU roommate, Doyle, kicked off her Paddy's Day party which entailed plenty of dips, homemade meatballs and kilbasa, MJ power hour (compliments of Campbell), "don't sink the chalupa" and the presence of some of Milton's favorite parental figures, Connie O'Connor and Donna Flynn. Sunday concluded with (more) dinner and cake for Mama Sue's birthday and a mound of school work that brought tears to my eyes (literally). Anyone interested in knowing what-have-you about erectile dysfunction or all the various off-label uses of Viagra, please feel free to contact me.

Brian took off for the red-light district of Thailand for a couple weeks. I believe he celebrated his birthday with a couple of drags that couldn't get enough of his smokey-eyed look that he's nailed at this point, the look that is. A little late but, "sook sun wan gerd" Bri. Not sure how you would accurately pronounce that birthday wish in Thai but that's for you to say and for me to write. Also, 142 Pearl contemplated throwing a video together but were having difficulty choosing a scenario that wasn't too obscene. Instead, we captured stand-still evidence of the most exciting part of any birthday celebration (the rocking out part, duh!) in Brian's honor (see shotty photo above).

Seeing as we were down a roomie, our other Fairfield visitor, Greg DiCamillo, flew in from D.C. to assume Brian's role for the week. Greg's highlight of his spring break in Boston was his purchase of a suave gray pinstripe quasi top-hat made to induce atrial flutter in females. Clearly, there is no picture that can do the accessory justice but at least you have an idea of what to look out for ladies (and no that is not Greg after some photoshopping gone awry).

Annnd that wraps up March madness I would say (but apparently the madness officially ends tonight with Memphis vs kansas).

Hooray

2008-04-06T20:02:00.011-04:00

Spearheading the trio of forwards for Alba Volan, cousin Sam Ftorek recently celebrated the International Ice Hockey Federation championship, granting Hungary its 6th consecutive continental cup (how's that for alliteration?). But the excitement doesn't stop there folks. Misty November and Ariana have been residing in Budapest for the season, serving as Sam's number one fans. The other day, while Sam was bestowing Misty with flowers (awww), Misty decided to take that opportunity to slip her hubby some booties that had no potential of harboring Sam's sasquashes and, therein, indicating their anticipated new arrival in a mere 5 months to date!
Congratulations Misty, Sam and Ari!

The Great Gazelle March

2008-04-05T14:28:00.003-04:00

...referred to others as the Guerilla Stampede...silently, but maybe not so inconspicuously, unloaded on the Bell in Hand last month (and Tequila Rain this past Friday). My roommate, Brian, informed me of his latest discovery in the gay realm: 300+ gays take over an unsuspecting straight bar on any given night. Participants are notified of the destination via email 24 hours prior to the event and are requested to congregate at a specific time. The idea is to make people aware of the lack of integration between gays and straights. Well who doesn't want to witness an explosive infiltration of gays at one of the most straight-laced bars in Boston? The Bell in Hand was like a turkey on Thanksgiving stuffed with gays overflowing out its orifice (front door) and spewing onto the platter on which it sits (Union Street) And let's not forget to mention the torrential downpour that persisted (now that's some soggy stuffing). At first glance, chances were nil that you'd find a straight bar-goer in any room of the watering-hole. And at a second, more arduous look, maybe you'd see 2 fag-hags (me and Alayna) and a few guidos who just weren't getting it (and then of course Whitey and Campbell waiting in the hour-long queue to join the party). It's an event everyone should check out at some point, if not for support of gay-straight integration, at least for some gay ol' fun!

Guest Spot

2008-03-08T03:38:00.009-05:00

This just in: the latest review of Basia, Foreign Born & Annie C.'s recent performance at the Middle East thoughtfully and cleverly scripted by Milton's Chris "Stonewall Jackson" White. Have a look-see.

Thank you, Dana, for the invite and I apologize for my tardiness. Personally, I’d like to hear some more of your thoughts about that opening a capella that Basia performed. Perhaps you could, say, compare its texture and flavor to that of your last ½ pint of UFO at the bar? First, a disclaimer: I have never seen a live, female singer-songwriter that I did not like. Seriously. Give Doyle a xylophone, a stage and the screenplay for “You Got Served” and I am in. That said, I thought Basia was excellent and thought Dana’s “soft and natural” description was perfect. Since the show was a week ago and I am a bit of a drunk, that’s about all I can remember about her set.

Middle East manager to Foreign Born before the show: “You guys didn’t get the memo? You’ve been replaced by a serving of Quaker apple cinnamon-flavored oatmeal. Not only is it better for your heart, it adds a certain je ne sais quia to the room.” Foreign Born didn’t so much suck as fade into the background. There was nothing interesting about this band until the last five minutes of their set, when they played an awesome song with a lot of rhythmic (by everyone but me) audience clapping and “Ohhhhh Oh Oh Ohhhh Oh’s” that reminded me of the interlude in Phish’s song, “Stash.” This was the point in the show that I tapped my foot and awkwardly slid side to side a little bit. Since my arms and legs are made of cardboard and tree bark, respectively, this was like Stephen Hawking joining your pickup game and going 5 for 7 from beyond the arc.

Finally, St. Vincent was unexpectedly great. I say unexpectedly only because my ten minutes of pre-show research turned up two You Tube clips, from which I woke up three hours later. But instead of sending patrons into boredom comas, Annie Clark and her band rocked. I know analogies are never perfect and everyone loves to tear them down, but the tone and style reminded me of Regina Spektor. The frequent “ba ba ba ba” or “bee bee bee” type choruses were also familiar. By the way, do “Ohhhh Oh Oh Ohhhh Oh” and “ba ba ba” not translate well to paper? That’s probably why the Milton Record Transcript isn’t knocking down my door looking for a music reviewer. You get what you pay for, Dana. In short, try to get your hands on the Basia Bulat and St. Vincent records. Also, google “Foreign Born Ohhhh Oh Oh Ohhhh.” No, I can’t remember a song title or a single lyric, but I’m sure you won’t have any trouble finding it.

Scott Heim

2008-03-07T12:28:00.005-05:00

If you haven't familiarized yourself with Scott Heim yet, I would suggest doing so. Not only is Scott a most modest and aspiring talent, but he is so genuine, calming and poised in his approach that a native Bostonian wouldn't think twice about clearing his schedule and decelerating his heart rate and speed of thought to adjust to the easy cadence of Scott's speech. And so welcoming to new faces is Scott that you may even receive an invite for dinner with he and his partner or an offer to make a guest appearance at your book club upon introduction. Scott's 10 year latest work, We Disappear, hit the shelves this month (physically and virtually). The artist is currently on the beginning of his publicity tour, making his initial stop at the Brookline Booksmith the other night. There he read selected excerpts from his newly released novel and participated in discussion with an inquisitive and diverse audience, comprised of a rich spectrum of ages and cultures. (As per example, I was situated next to a lone woman pushing 70 years of age and a gay Asian couple in their 30's.) We Disappear is one part memoir, one part fiction as Scott would say. After returning to the Midwest to care for his ailing mother, Scott tweaked his novel to incorporate his own trying experiences into his unraveling work. It is a story of people deemed "missing" and a mother who is infatuated with these unresolved and mysterious cases. No worries, I can't spoil the ending because I haven't read it yet myself!
Apparently video clips are the new wave of publicity advertising. Scott has produced a short footage resembling the Blaire Witch Project that you can check out below.

Basia Balut with St. Vincent

2008-03-03T16:49:00.001-05:00

Basia Balut, the Canadian singer-songwriter and long time favorite of Anyone's Guess', performed the opening act for St. Vincent at the Middle East this past weekend. Taking stage with a solo A Capella number, she initiated the electricity for which the crowd (who was of strikingly more advanced age than to which the venue is accustomed) seemed to beg. Soft and natural in her approach, Basia Balut owned the stage for a solid hour before she handed it off to Foreign Born, who more or less served as a filler until Annie Clark of St. Vincent assumed her position. Judging from her Youtube clips and short blips of songs I had come across, I was expecting a rather melodramatic and poetic performance. To the contrary, Annie sent the audience into a fervor of head bopping, body convulsing frenzy. She was charasmatic, taking the time in between songs to relay anecdotes and short stories that were not-so-relevant to the show but nonetheless entertaining and lively, playing her electric guitar like Coco Crisp fields nearly-out-of-the-park hits. You can find AG and other's commentaries on Basia here and check out Annie Clark on her MySpace locale. Hopefully, we'll have an inside piece on the show from Chris White to follow shortly. In the meantime, check out Basia's trippy video and St. Vincent's unfiltered in-home recording and have a listen for yourself.

Bienvenidos a Mexico

2008-03-02T21:02:00.002-05:00

A little late in the game for a Cancun spring break but I managed to fit it in before 26 years of age (does that count for something?). I was fortunate enough to be invited to play the free-loading-mysterious(who's the Boston chick?)-pseudo-girlfriend role last weekend at a tropical resort in Cancun. No complaints on my end. My date, a Philly guy stricken with severe ADD, and I appeared as if we had minimal association with each other unless there was a work-affiliated camera in sight. Enthused by the idea of being surrounded by free cocktails and endless buffet selections, toasty sand and ferocious waves and a slew of activity options at no charge, our separate entities took full charge. Although we registered as a couple to go ziplining through a canopy and mountain biking to a lagoon, Philly led the pack while I ambled along with a family of 5. Not only were we capable and willing to go our self-chosen paths, but I was flooded with pity and attention for being 'left to my own devices'. Does it get better than that?

The Greatest

2008-02-08T00:23:00.000-05:00

Did Chan Marshall of Cat Power perform for her band or the audience tonight? A rocker (and alcoholic) once in her day, CM has toned her energy level down about 95 notches. The get-your-lighter-out mood was set with scarce theatrical lighting, a nearly bare stage and a band that overpowered the lead vocalist's soulful, majestic style. Chan circumvented center stage to displace the few spotlights in use and give her crew the chance to bask. However, when performing in unison, the keyboard, drums and guitar continued to take precedence.
Apparently, when Cat Power's career first launched, Chan experienced severe stage fright, turning her back on her listeners for entire shows.I think I would have to choose the I've-got-to-pee collapsed knees teamed with fancy foot work (as seen tonight) over the artist's (and former Chanel model's) backside. Cat Power has come great lengths since her initial debut but her endearing, soothing, and rather sultry, voice remains constant.
Here's an interview clip with Chan Marshall discussing her revamp into a sober artist and learning to enjoy her audience as much as they do her.

Let's dance around our shoes and pocketbooks.

2008-01-23T23:14:00.001-05:00

No relation here right?...

Now I know where I learned to throw them bows.
FYI: You may want to mute out my screechy voice in the 2nd video. OR maybe not!

FREE flowing fingers

2008-01-23T21:24:00.000-05:00

For one reason or another a comfortable cafe with free internet access never fails to improve my work ethic and concentration. I'm now at the point of dependency and thought I would share with you all some of the recent havens that have stolen my heart (and more than their share of my pens)...

Tucked away behind an old stone wall church in Central square, Cambridge, with a facade not unlike your friendly neighbor's apartment, lies a discretely cast-away FREE wi-fi hotspot. Andala Cafe. Its intimate foyer unfolds to reveal individual nooks with couches and coffee tables and a porch with similar style. Pureed banana with milk and honey to accompany a bowl of vegetarian chili and waitstaff that know when to give you your space and when to sit down and join you for some jo is something you can pleasantly rely on here.

Back Bay's Trident Cafe, however, will forever be my old faithful study hub. The first free internet cafe I stumbled upon while living in the area and it still proves to be a challenge to surpass. Breakfast anytime, fresh fruit smoothies, open til midnight, and various forms and categories of literature in every direction you choose. This year, I will say, I was disappointed to discover that the owners had removed the power outlets to defray any lingering laptop junkies like myself. But if you're ok with 3 hours of internet access and a tasteful balance of comfort foods and light organic dishes from which to select, grab a book or 2 and a bar stool and saddle up.

Just down the road you'll find Espresso Royale. Free wireless, home-brewed rich hot chocolate, an eclectic handful of chatty baristas and a plethora of Boston hip-and-happening reading material at your disposal. The manageable downside to this micro-sized cafe is its proportionally tight seating. But, depending on the time of the day, the privacy factor may not be an issue or may escape your attention altogether.

Eastern Standard, located in the Commonwealth Hotel across from Kenmore station, offers more of an upscale, professional vibe. If you work well with a couple of cocktails in you then this is your winner for sure. Fortunately, if drinks and concentrating don't mix well with you, Eastern Standard still has a decent menu, although a bit pricey, and free internet provided that you plug in a random hotel room number. The waitstaff are cued into this trick but proceed to cater to your whims and make you feel just a little more powerful than when you walked in.

Toscanini's in Central square survives solely on its coffee and ice-cream sales. I have nothing but respect for the Toscanini gang. The frappes are a great substitute for a meal (or a 2nd helping) and the indie-rock/folk playing in the background sets the mood for hitting the books in my opinion. Plenty of outlets to settle in with your compact electronics, however, the seating may convince you to cut your study session a bit shorter than anticipated.

Feel free to post any of your personal fave free wi-fi spots that shouldn't go neglected!

Happy studying people.

Let the mobile adventures begin

2008-01-22T18:17:00.000-05:00

That's my daughter (or rather my niece) in the water (actually just on San Franciscan wood flooring)...

I know Marley's fan club has been anticipating this moment for almost a year now so here it is, brought to you all thoughtfully and devotingly by 226 Shrader. Quite hallmark if I may say so.

2008-01-04T17:59:00.000-05:00

Great to have everyone around this past week: Mike Certo in from Seattle, Evan Laflamm in from Chicago and Shannon Lyons all the way in from Dedham. I'm pretty sure I heard my echo the other day without the gang around, or the Tecante orrrr Guitar Hero! The absence of bodies in the abode may take some adjusting but sleeping in my own bed might help move the process along at a sharper pace.

Thais, Marc, Evan and I spent the holiday at Blu, upstairs from the Ritz in town. Fortunately for us, a couple of friends were able to admit us for no charge and satisfy our thirst and hunger for a minimal fee. It was a great excuse to razzle-dazzle ourselves (or so Thais and I believed) and to enjoy some bubbly while gawking at the fireworks and ice sculptures. Hope everyone had a beautiful time ringing in the new year in whichever manner you chose.

2008 is also a milestone marker for me being that it denotes the halfway point of my master's program. I should be taking the nurse licensing exam this month and then I'll be on my way to poking and prodding unsuspecting (and suspecting) victims. Don't worry, you will all have a heads up!

Cheers!

Wonderland in 2007

2007-12-26T14:32:00.000-05:00

December 26th. Does this date indicate that it's time to bring things down a few notches and prepare for the new year? The Christmas season has officially climaxed, producing a lingering nostalgic feeling not so unlike post-partum depression(or so says the literature). You are no longer decorating and hastily planning festive events, your calendar has suddenly freed up your weekends leaving you without reason to miss your study group, your sexy attention-grabbing holiday attire is left neglected at the dry-cleaners, the once magnificent-appearing tree has managed to last through your party before sucking up its last drop of nutrients, the presents now lay strewn about the house rather than perfectly and affectionately wrapped for all to appreciate and speculate over their hidden treasures and the house is just a hair quieter than the preceding weeks.

It was a great holiday however. One filled with mistletoe and nog parties, jingle-bell rock concerts (too bad I was incapacitated with the flu until the last song of the night), gingerbread house-making contests, family and close friends (or if you're my parents, a house sandwiched with long lost relatives, your neighbors and your neighbor's friends' neighbors).

To say good-bye to 2007, I thought I would put together a snapshot of the last year (and a half), capitalizing on all the most spirit-filled moments of course. I apologize in advance for not being able to capture on film all the people with whom I've been able to create and share wonderful stories. There have been many a camera lost in my day but the memories I still hold. (Although I hear your memory is the second thing to go...)

From vino tasting to cheesy garb

2007-12-10T18:32:00.000-05:00

Pearl Street had its first wine tasting turned Christmas extravaganza this past Saturday. As my school semester wrapped up, the opportunity for celebrating ripened. It also gave me a chance to try my hand in the kitchen with Rachel Ray's Express Meals. The plates were shiny at the end of the night and the bottles dry so I may have to repeat my culinary adventures for a new trial of judges (preferably before the toasting ensues) this weekend at the family yankee swap (if there are any takers). Pesto pizza with zucchini and mozzarella anyone?

Note the classy Budweiser t-shirt was upgraded to mom's festive holiday mock (the only shot I got was from the rear, my apologies Santa). In fact, that sweater landed me a couple of scratch tickets for outdoing the tackiest of the tacky that evening. The sweater has now transferred hands (temporarily) and will be making a guest appearance at Burkey and Jon's upcoming Christmas show next Thursday night at Copperfield's. This garment will have seen more spotlight than I could ever hoped for. Someone needs to put a tracker on that thing.

Bizarre Bazzars

2007-12-06T18:55:00.000-05:00

A friend of a friend sponsored a craft fair the other night at Toast in Union square. She performed a medley of folky covers, with which I was unfamiliar, and with what appeared to be a random handful of males she came across in her passing through Inman square, Neponset Circle and Beacon Hill. To my delight, the crew complimented each other famously. The goods for sale were mostly pieces of recycled art, like crushed Coke can clocks (how's that for alliteration?), tape measure earrings and hard-cover book clutch purses (which I nearly bought as a Christmas present for my older sibling until it registered that he's my brother).

Luckily, there are various arts and crafts events coming up in anticipation for the holidays. The South End's annual market at the Cyclorama is this Sunday 12-7p. Last year, I found it well worth the dollar for admission to peruse the clever and wacky handmade items for grab. I couldn't convince myself to fork over the dough for a screen-designed T-shirt but it at least sparked some ideas (Still working on opening that personal clothing line...)

Also this upcoming week is Winter Arts week in Boston. Each night, at a different location, there will be art for sale, live music and complimentary apps and drinks for the first hour (free to get in). The schedule is as follows:

SUN 12.09.07 7PM TO 10PM AT BARLOLA
160 Commonwealth Avenue Boston, MA 617.266.1122
Complimentary Cocktail Tasting
Live Flamenco Performance
Pablo Picasso, Claude Manet & Peter Marx Lithographs

MON 12.10.07 11PM AT VIA MATTA
79 Park Plaza Boston, MA 617.422.0008
Late night Christiania Vodka Tasting at the Enoteca
"Soundscapes & Landscapes" Artwork by Lisa Finch & Duncan Reid
Downtempo DJ set by Yuki

TUES 12.11.07 10PM AT PHO REPUBLIQUE
1415 Washington St Boston, MA (South End) 617.262.0005
Complimentary Appetizers + Christiania Vodka Tasting
Downtempo DJ set + Artwork by Jen Roberts

WED 12.12.07 10PM TO 12AM AT VINALIA
34 Summer St Boston, MA 617.737.1777
Complimentary Christiania Vodka Cocktail Tasting
Open mic with Live music by Circus Band + Artwork by Ivan Brens

THURS 12.13.07 7PM TO 10PM AT ZOCALO
414 Commonwealth Ave Brighton, MA 617.277.5700
Complimentary Mexican Appetizers
Music compiled by Brother Cleve
Artwork by Tim Whitehair, Manuel Rodriguez Jr., and various artists

FRI 12.14.07 9PM TO 2AM AT GOOD LIFE
28 Kingston St Boston, MA 617.451.2622
Complimentary Appetizers + Christiania Vodka Tasting
Music by The Band of Gypsies + "The Female Perspective"
Art by Marisa Oge, Marie Share, Margaret Whitehair & Nicole Olenio
House music by DJs Francesco Spagna + Enrique Florendo

SAT 12.15.07 12PM TO 8PM FINAL EXHIBIT
325 Columbus St Boston, MA in the South End
Complimentary Chistiania Vodka Cocktail Tasting
Art Collections from various artists

If you are go-oing to San. Fran. Ciscooo...

2007-11-26T10:55:00.000-05:00

Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair.

Actually, as Scott pointed out, the hippy generation is quickly becoming extinct and subsequently being replaced by a hipster-grunge crowd, particularly in the Haight-Ashbury district where the McCabes currently reside. (I'm sure flowers would still be a nice accent and welcomed anyhow, though a peace sign gesture from the locals is not a guarantee.)

I was fortunate enough to spend the bulk of last week in the bay area with my lovely family featured above, in addition to Holly and Loren who are missing from the photo, to complete our adult kid's table for this year's turkey feast.

Apart from fullfilling my Thanksgiving duty and eating just the right amount before the button on my pants gave way, I tried my hand at frolf (maybe I should've used two), hiked along the Presidio and walked its nude beach (yes there was one brave soul out there but I opted not to post his picture), read at a relaxing cafe, under Scott's recommendation, after which I'm going to model my own someday, absorbed UV rays in late November! and relished every second of it, became somewhat more acclimized to having a fancy-pants camera within a 2 foot radius at all times, (Vacation is a good enough excuse for a little extra hair shine, right? I'm anticipating a photo spree in a mere 3 weeks in Milton and have been shampooing everyday since my return.) dined at the infamous Cha Cha Cha's (mmm plantains and sangria) and laughed and "clucked" along with Marley for 4 days straight. (Yes, Sue I realize that this is a run-on fragment amounting to a paragraph of sorts.)

Clearly I set myself up for disappointment next year. Thanks for a great holiday week! See yall in a few weeks!

Gap casting call

2007-11-19T13:55:00.000-05:00

She's not taking autograph requests yet folks but she can give you some skin and she is willing to allot time with you to share a yogurt, an emphatic head-bob or even her furry penguin. Ladies and gents, be on the lookout for one of the newest and freshest faces to hit national billboards and stores. Marley McCabe has just completed her first week of a finalist photo shoot for Baby Gap, qualifying as 1 of 5 top candidates out of 860,000. That's right, at just 9 months old, Mars is taking America by storm.

After the release of her "squinshy" face, the public can't seem to get enough of her. Already riding in a Mercedes town car, dazzling the crowds, sporting the most fashionable Baby Gap attire and making more bank than Auntie D, Marley is sure to receive an Oscar by the age of 2 1/2. But let's focus here people. What Mars needs now through December 15th is your enthusiastic support by way of online votes (and mushy age-appropriate sweets wouldn't hurt either). Cast your votes (you're allowed 1 vote a day) here!

Ftorek on the rise

2007-11-06T21:15:00.000-05:00

Middlebury men's soccer won the NESCAC championship against Amherst this past weekend and continue on to the NCAA tournament on their home turf this Saturday vs the winner of the Bridgewater State/Wheaton game. Cousin Casey Ftorek, holding several NESCAC player of the week awards, currently leads the NESCAC with 11 goals through 15 games this year. It's a privilege to witness his finesse on the field first hand and if that's not enticing enough for you, it's also worthwhile to see Ftorek confidently taking the field whilst his vibrant bandanna (as opposed to the one displayed in his profile pic) attempts to tame those free-flowing (frosted??) locks. And who dawns those hair accessories better than you Case? Love you man. Should be an eventful weekend if anyone is in the Middlebury vicinity (but don't worry, I'll keep you updated of course!)

... Just got word that Middlebury maintained its near-flawless record this past weekend and will be heading to Disney for the semifinals against Lora (Iowa)... In case anyone needed another excuse to shoot down to Florida for the weekend... your welcome.

Safe Passage

2007-11-06T19:57:00.000-05:00

I first caught wind of Safe Passage from my lovely cousin-in-law Brianna. Safe Passage is is an organization that brings hope to children who live and work in and around the Guatemala City dump. With a school on the periphery of the dump, Safe Passage provides the materials and uniforms necessary for the children to attend public school, supplies them with nutritious foods, and provides lessons to reinforce concepts learned in school as well as classes focused hygiene and respect. Most importantly, Safe Passage offers a "refuge" for these children where they can play in a safe environment. Brianna and Chris McCabe (I think this is the only serious photo they've ever taken) spent time volunteering in Antigua, Guatemala where they initially became involved with this incredible organization. Since then, Bri has done a tremendous job advocating and keeping the public (esp her blog followers) well-informed with the ongoings of Safe Passage.

Having spent the earlier part of my summer in Guatemala with similar populations as those that Safe Passage supports, I am particularly looking forward to the upcoming benefit concert featuring Marta Gomez. Marta will be performing at Wheelock College on December 1. Hope some of you can check it out or at least give the organization a look. !Cuidate!

Dones

2007-11-06T16:10:00.000-05:00

John Doney put forth a powerful performance last night at the Lizard Lounge's singer/ songwriter open mike challange. Each artist is allowed to share 2 songs with the crowd, which are in turn judged by the throngs of listeners filling the bar, including 3 designated judges. Dones kicked things off with his hit "Dead End" that had the slender of the judge trio bobbing his head in sync as Doney sealed his solo act with "Hint of Trust". Both song selections are embedded with unfiltered emotion and passion that is unspeakably clear in their delivery. Undoubtedly the best sound you could hope to hear upon opening your apartment door is Doney tearing it up on guitar and letting his vocal cords take a hold of him (and the apartment for that matter). I often find myself singing Doney's little diddies around the house before realizing that I now know nearly all the lyrics. (I mean I've even offered to be his back-up fly-girl but Doney's still sitting on the idea for one reason or another. I have been dubbed his songstress however!)

Unfortunately, a musician resembling the lead singer of the Counting Crows (physically) and John Mayer (musically) was nominated for the final round along with 2 other more or less mind-numbing performers. Hopefully the Lizard Lounge will be able to recognize talent on cue next time. Congrats on the show Dones.

Get out your wallets

2007-11-01T09:37:00.000-04:00

Finalizing your weekend plans? Why not check out David Sedaris speak at the Boston Symphony Hall Friday night? NPR favorite and author of Naked and Me Talk Pretty One Day (among others that I have yet to read), will be taking the stage at 8pm with opportunities to address any audience questions post-show. Tickets are hot right now so get clicking or pick up that cell.

Also coming to town this weekend is the Decembrists who will be playing at the Orpheum Theatre this Saturday and Sunday evening. The best way to get the lowdown on these guys is to check them out either on youtube or Scottie's blog

(but you may have to dig a little for the entry or maybe we'll land a little help from our friend).

The Boston Celtics take the court against the Washington Wizards this Friday at 8pm to kick off the new season. Tickets range from 10 to 200 bucks. I think $192 is my personal limit, maybe I could kick in an extra bill or 2 but $200?? With new additions, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, the Celtics will be thismuchcloser to kicking some tail this year.

It may be the day after Halloween but that doesn't make it too early to think about Christmas! (or does it?) The annual Christmas craft festival at the World Trade Center runs this Friday through Sunday. If collectible snowmen and homemade jams are your bag, then get out your holiday sweater and head over to the mob scene in Southie... and then tell me how it is. (I'm not opposed to early holiday presents fyi, as if you needed the reminder.)

Hallow's Eve

2007-10-29T21:12:00.000-04:00

Halloween. To me and maybe to a select few, this word evokes memories of Frankie's classic teaching stories. Back in the hay day, when FB was employed by the Boston Public School system, he gave a lecture on compound words to some of his 7th grade students weighing in at 2 bills and pushing the age of 20. One such pupil, raised his hand to suggest an example of a compound word: Halloween: "When you see your friends you say hallow and when you're playing a game you gots to weeeen!" The story relays much better when read with a Caribbean-slash-Aussie inflection (because who can differentiate the two right? Riigghttt. Worked for me anyhow..)
With the World Series coming to a close this weekend, Noel trekking to Boston for her 25th birthday and a gala of opportunities to dress like an ass, there was no room for disappointment. Assault and Battery with a Deadly Weapon (aka Chuck Norris) made a late yet emphatic appearance in Southie last Friday. The trio disbanded Saturday evening but Assault and Battery held their own (as you would expect).

Is it appropriate to dress as assault for your first day on a pediatric rotation on Halloween? Naw, ya I didn't think so either..

Good things happen in the dark

2007-10-22T12:05:00.000-04:00

The city of Boston has chosen to adopt the global Lights Out initiative beginning March 15th of the upcoming year. The idea centers on combating climate change. The city's light supply will be interrupted for 1 hour and the residents are asked to wing it in the dark, aside from the guidance of 1 fluorescent bulb. San Francisco had their "earth hour" the other night and it's been speculated that during this hour, San Fran saves 15% of the energy it consumes on a typical Saturday night. Those crunchy-granola folk may have been more excited about the opportunity to fine tune their seances but it's still pretty incredible, no? Boston may be a little slow on the uptake but we come around.

Ball Bustas

2007-10-17T19:28:00.000-04:00

I felt this excerpt from our inspiring "bench coach" should be shared. Andrew Kelley writing about our softball team playoffs this Sunday vs. the Beavers:

How about those Ballbusters? After their loss to Balls deep last year no expected them to be back. But Chris Brandi stopped popping up to first base and Mike Early and Whitey stopped coming to games and they find themselves right back in the thick of things. And they have not one but two sibling combinations. I am not sure who is more dynamic the Halliseys or the Travers. And Mush and D-Mac and Coco and Dales...you have to have a nickname to be good. Hunter is at the back of their pen and Warner's inside out swing makes the girls' hearts swoon. And when Burkey is around, hey, hey I want to be a rockstar: all the good golddiggers are going to wind up there, all the playboy bunnies with the bleached blond hair. Mary has a silky stroke that's the envy of the league. Who can stop these guys? There's only one postseason. There's only one Fall Classic. There's only one October.

There's only one October. I live for this! Bring on the Beavers.

Dane Cook

Eloquent, right? I don't think I could add anything to that even if I wanted to. Here's to the Bustasss!

Makin moves

2007-10-10T21:54:00.000-04:00

If anyone's looking for a rowdy night and is willing to throw down a few bills, I suggest renting out the Bustonian, complete with a comedic driver, a dance floor and stripper poles (to be expected). Mary Flynn turned 25 Saturday and by that I mean 25 tricks. Pole tricks, of course. Don't worry, we kept it PG but that's not to say we didn't all get a work-out. If you're willing and able to go this route, be cognizant that a) someone may inquire how many beers were spilled on you upon exiting the dance floor b) it's possible you'll recall that you haven't shown off your retired gymnastic skills in a while and hey! there are plenty of bars to flip from! c) Rachel Smith may just wind up on the bus by the close of the night AND get hit on by you and/or your friends d) once the eyelids fail to stay open, an antiquing opportunity presents itself e) it will be necessary to factor in a lengthy recovery period once the night finally concludes.

Is this turning into a birthday blog? In that case, happy bday Shannon Lyons! 142 Pearl would like to jump on this opportunity to make a mockery of our theatrical talents once again, this time in your honor. If you would so kindly take a listen, and possibly shake that thang, we'll have a preview of Saturday's dance-a-thon!
Shake it!

I'll dip to that

2007-10-10T17:03:00.000-04:00

The mad dash began Friday at 5:30am and ended at some point while in a deep REM cycle the following morning. Mike Wilson is moving to L.A. so naturally there is going to be a farewell send-off which happened to be set for Friday evening. In preparation, I made a deluxe 10 layer garbage dip Thursday night that ended up hanging out in the McCabe fridge instead of making the transition to Cambridge with its creator. Well, alternate plans had to be devised for our runion. After a full day of feeling displaced fundi and engorged ta-tas, I headed to meet Daly to make the hand-off. While en-route, a train caught fire at Park St and initiated chaos in Boston. Standing amongst a throng of people on a street corner, I bumped into Whitey who was also going to meet Daly and the two of us jogged to Southie in search of the dip. Well, Daly pulled through, as per usual, and Whitey did his part by imparting me with a shopping bag for transport. As I'm entering the T, the dip chooses to put up a stink about all the mishandling and neglect and crashes to the floor. There goes mom's casserole dish and the drool-inducing dip spread over 4 stairs. My heart sinks for about 5 minutes before I declare that I can't show up to the party without dip in hand (mainly out of fear). Back at the apartment, I delegate the avacado smushing to Chris Doney (the roomie's little bro), while I address the stitches in his lip. Having never removed stitches before, a 5 minute process turned into 30 minutes. A quick drop off and I'm off to a last-minute concert. Reinvigorated, I return to pick-up the new dip before entrance to the fiesta. The dip is strapped into the passenger's seat and we're off. Five minutes into our journey, we feel a sudden, forceful "hey, how are you?" with a neighboring vehicle. Outraged, the dip and I pull over on Storrow Drive to attend to insurance protocol and feeling like we're pouring out at the sides, we fix our sloppy appearances. Annddd we made it (just as the Sox hit a homer to steal our glory)! In the end, the dip served its purpose and many bellies were appeased.

And all that Jazz

2007-09-30T22:32:00.001-04:00

Berklee faculty member Esperanza Spalding led her group in a set opening for the McCoy Tyner Septet at the Beehive last Thursday night to kick-off the Beantown Jazz Festival. The Beehive was an ideal hub for chowing down on savory veggie burgers (who would've thought that was a possible descriptive for such a food) and finding yourself mesmerized by the long hyperactive (and probably incredibly calloused) fingers of the cello player. The festival continued through the weekend, at which point one of the twins I nanny for made her spotlight debut in the Boston Herald trying her hand at the xylophone. Not to steal all the credit, but I'd just like to add that the girls and I have had some pretty rigorous practices to Charlie Brown's album lately and, well, if I was in attendance Saturday, that front page would've looked a shade different. I'm just saying.

The Red Sox clinched the American League Division Series Friday night coinciding with the arrival of our Chicago visitor, Chris Huff, whose team also sealed the deal that very evening. Amidst the Kenmore square chaos, cousin Katie McCabe was hosting her send-off party on Lansdowne St. The (naked) human keg cups were amusing, as were the sporadic champagne showers. But the ridiculously long lines had to be the highlight of my evening. Good thing Katie's flight departed safely on Sunday so there won't be a need for a repeat party for a while. Katie has shared her online journal site with us so that we may track her adventures through Fiji, Australia and New Zealand here.

My former Maine roomie was in town for a boat show this weekend, which happened to be in close proximity to the Harpoon fest, a 2 for 1 for some of us. The most notable random run-in at the brewery had to be a retired member of the "three muskateers", as they were known by Scott and his buddies in H.S., Jeff Oster. After assembling the jumbled (slurred) pieces, I think Oster was trying to send his greetings Scottie. And then a distant second would be cousin Garrett, who I was under the impression had turned 21 years ago, but in fact it was merely days ago. Peculiar. Following the Harpoon festival, 142 Pearl St had a pre-housewarming (we were down a roomie so we're still waiting for the real deal). It was a solid end to a long 24 hours and an excellent warm-up for the Ball Busters blow-out the following day at softball. Here's to team unison guys. I think a pasta party wouldn't be a bad idea next time though.

September 25

2007-09-25T00:36:00.000-04:00

Forgive the de ja vu of this entry if you will. When you have 2 brothers with birthdays 2 days apart things start to blend together all too well. It's all about Scott McCabe today though people. Another San Francisco-er, big brotha Scott made his mark (in MA, let's remember our roots now) twenty-some-odd years to the T. I think it's only appropriate that everyone swing by AG's site (soon to be relocated under his own master-mind domain!) and plant (post) a wet one under the comments section or a simple birthday shout out would do the trick.

I'm hoping there will be a sufficient intake of meatballs and chocolate chip cookies on your end today Scottie, be them simultaneously or independently, and I'll do my best to contribute my part of course.

And, 142 Pearl St would like to extend its short and sweet birthday wishes to"Mr Scottie Boy". We were envisioning Eddie and we heard Garth. A blasphemy yes, but maybe the birthday boy will be swayed... what do you think folks?

Just for piece of mind: the image is shot but the idea is there!

September 23

2007-09-23T15:33:00.000-04:00

Well James Matthew is the lucky fellow who was able to celebrate his birthday on both coasts today (physically) and essentially across the entire midwest region, a rare occassion indeed. J flew home this weekend with Liana and Marley to attend a "barn wedding" in western MA. Having the superpowers to be in 10 places at once as he does, J made the rounds before jetting back to San Fran this morning. Unfortunately, little sis failed to be in the right place at the right time (go figure). Instead, she honored the era of Jamie, at an 80's party sporting his letterman jacket, over which all the attendees and T riders gawked. Thanks Jame, it was an honor.

On behalf of me and my roommate (and 2004 travel companion to SF) Brian G, we'd like to wish Jamie a HAPPY spankin BIRTHDAY! Here we go Wildcats!

On a side note, earlier tonight, I attended Cambridge's River Sing on the water to join the crowd in giving summer a swift boot and welcoming the beautiful fall season, the best time of year to be in San Francisco if I might add. Apparently, River Sing is a new tradition that is supposed to bridge Boston and Cambridge via music. Not my particular choice of melodies but a lovely and enjoyable evening nonetheless. Happy Fall ladies and gents!

Did you hear?

2007-09-16T23:33:00.000-04:00

Just a few announcements for folks. First and foremost, Scott has wowed us again. Big bro's latest publication has just been released. You can find his short story, Cheese and Crackers in this month's issue of the Summerset Review. If anyone's familiar with the McCabe side of the fam and/or hanging at the Green Harbor pad, you may want to prepare yourself for some tugging on the old heartstrings. Beautiful work Scottie!

Secondly, our good pal, Chris Burke and his band Staff Johnson have just been invited to make their debut at the Paradise Lounge next Friday, the 21st. Lyrics Born and Hot Hot Heat have got some fierce competition my friends. And, it just so happens that Staff Johnson will be opening up for the Alternate Routes, led by Tim Warren, a fellow Fairfield stag, not to mention my first crush back in the day. Here's one of their singles entitled Time is a Runaway. Bet you couldn't guess the name from the song... And, just for good measure, I should add that Jenny Lewis, a personal favorite (note the ripped-off song title serving as my blog identity), and her band Rilo Kiley will also be playing on the 21st at Avalon. We have a big night ahead of us people. Let's be sure we bring our A-game, ya?

Thirdly, lil Mars celebrated turning 7 months old this weekend, which us east-coasters can appreciate thanks to Jamo and his punctual picture taking (and posting) skills. If you haven't checked out his smugmug site, you better have one hell of a reason and then you better make an immediate visit and comment on how wonderfully talented my big big bro is and how f'n adorable my neice is. Thanks.

And lastly, while we're talking rights of passage, Alayna, a classmate and good friend of mine, nailed the booty-shake this weekend. Naturally. What better accomplishment could you ask for on your birthday? I mean, JLo has a lot of tail to work with but it is what it is. The bar was set and Alayna, with a little help from some skinny white girls and whoever was within arm's (or booty's) length, stepped up to the plate like a pro. Happy 2-8 lady!

Oh baby! Oh boy!

2007-09-11T00:12:00.000-04:00

Friday was baptism by fire day as some would call it. My first clinical on a labor and delivery floor and guess what I saw?? Yup. I got the works first-hand. I was assigned to a lovely happy-go-lucky couple who was having its 2nd C-section after mom and child number 1 battled through the first one 5 years earlier. Although it was a scheduled event, I was not fully prepared for the dissection that took place.

Perched atop a stool hovering over the resident and the attending, yet keeping my distance from any loose flying liquids, it became clear that I wasn't going to miss any part of this invasive surgery. (Fortunately the mother was shielded by a hanging drape in front of her face). Not long after the physicians had reached their destination, did a forceful spray of amniotic fluid and blood cascade onto the resident. Ding, ding, ding. It was just about time to heave-ho at the baby's head. The newbie, weighing in close to 10 pounds, put up a fair stink about having to squeeze through the underestimated abdominal incision, let alone leave his warm and familiar sleeping quarters. After much stretching and tearing with metal tools that resembled shovels and with the aid of a vacuum, a healthy boy was safely excavated. It was something like you'd see in a science fiction film really - a slimy, not quite human-looking creature molding it's way out of the belly of a woman with a non-visible head.

Clearly not my sport

2007-09-07T18:07:00.000-04:00

I think this little incident warrants another glimpse at the scene from a player and (later) a daughter's perspective. But thanks for deciphering and relaying the situation at the wee hours of the night Scottie.

If we're going to do this right, we're going to have to back it up a bit. I'm talking senior year at M.H.S. During one of our friendly lacrosse scrimmages, I assumed my usual position on D and paired up against a chatty cathy playing attack wing. Stick on the ball, where I like to keep it (as opposed to my face), I sense some tension from my opponent (who is also my teammate mind you). Next comes a "shot" from in front of a rather contorted and frustrated face. Little did I know her "goal" that day was actually my face. A multiple-fractured cheekbone and an embarrassing prom later, one would think that I would have retired the stick for good.

Well here we are again with renewed confidence and pent up aggression aimed at anyone in the vicinity of the goal I'm guarding. Turns out that didn't work to my advantage. After catching a stick in the eye, I returned to the hospital ER accompanied by pops of course. I think we ended up making at least 4 enemies that night and increasing our wait time 10 fold. The tech at the front desk ended up in tears, the plastic surgeon never showed, and Frank was banned from our town hospital. I did, however, receive my stitches before 1am.

Note: Don't go to a community hospital if you're not willing to clear your day's schedule and if you do go, don't piss off the hospital staff.

raise up with stix

2007-09-06T00:28:00.000-04:00

this is my face on lacrosse.

fearlessly risking my future in modeling to win a women's league lacrosse game tonight, r.u.w.f. met the business end of a lax stick tonight. six big ones (sutures, that is) through the eyebrow later and i've pioneered a new kind of piercing. wait two weeks and all the hipster teens will be lining up at the emergency room doors for a stitching. (they call this trendsetting, if i'm not mistaken.)

to be filed under: who says girls aren't tough?

or: go ahead and try me, chip, and i'll come at you like a spider monkey. grrrrr.

142 Pearl St

2007-09-04T10:21:00.000-04:00

I've done the leg work for you guys - procured an apartment with a legit roofdeck, scrubbed away the grime and google mapped the addy- so there's no time like the present to come hang in Central Square with the gang: myself, Brian and Dones.

Today is my last official day of freedom but don't worry guys, my unemployment reign continues. I'll just be stationed in a classroom in Charlestown instead of finding silly, yet deliberately enjoyable time-fillers. I guess it's about time to get those brain cells fired up again, eh? I've been assigned to an OB floor at MGH too so I'll be getting a taste of women's health, (which is the track that I chose before I was accepted to school based on the fact that I am a woman). I can only guess that I won't be giving gyn exams just yet. Might have to make a return visit to Maine.

If you've got it, flaunt it

2007-08-28T20:47:00.000-04:00

...You've got your work cut out for you Jame.

I challenge you readers to find someone with longer lashes than "Trouble". Booh-ya Mars.

A Heartwarming Work of Staggering Genius

2007-08-28T11:39:00.000-04:00

I was first introduced to the brilliant author and editor Dave Eggers a few Christmases back when I received The Best American NonRequired Reading from one of Egger's steadfast followers and the McCabe family member and witty artist himself, who displays his adoration of literature through the annual gift giving of books.

Since that revolutionary year of St. Nick, my Egger collection has catapulted (which, in Dana terms, is equivalent to tripling in size - comprising my entire top row of my 5th grade-sized bookshelf) and I have become alarmingly attentive at the mention of his ongoings, if only to relay the deets to Scott. On 09.26.07, Egger will be visiting Berklee's Performance Center in Boston in support of his newly launched writing center, 826 Boston, an extension of his first, 826 Valencia in San Francisco, opening in Roxbury this month. If you have time, I recommend checking him out. Annddd if you have even more time and enjoy writing, the center is in need of volunteer tutors.
Now there's the ad bit I was going for.

Stampact Challenge

2007-08-22T18:34:00.000-04:00

A Ftorek tradition that all began with cousin Sam's wedding in 2003 was revisited the other day by a more intimate yet distantly-related group. Under usual circumstances the Stampact Challenge will arise at a large family event, such as a wedding or a reunion. More recently, however, members of the family (particularly Anna and I) have been challenging friends to compete and possibly break Sam's record of one hour and 17 minutes.

Saturday was the fateful day. Corliss and myself vs. Warner, Skwar and Daly. After borrowing 5 pairs of retired sneakers from Wendy and clan, Rob, with sincere intensity, recited the rules and gave us the run-down before we were on our way. The idea, for those unfamiliar, is to grab a canoe, paddle out to Stampact island, less than a half mile from shore, and proceed to race around the island (which we calculated later to be 2.5 miles around) with one foot in the water at all times. Sounds harmless enough until you reach land and realize that the water is chest-level in most places and the bottom of the lake is covered with rocks, which would explain the scattered, vary-sized welts and scrapes on your legs.

Team Corliss and Dana finished at 1:27 while Warner and Skwar (who had a 'man down' as Frank would say) were being blown off course for the next 30 minutes. The wind and the waters may have been unfavorable that day or the competitors may have been a bit hungover but who's to know? Strategies are underway for next year's face-off as we speak and hopefully we can get some other Ftoreks and McCabes in the mix as well.

***Another birthday shout-out is an order at this time. Chris Corliss liss liss liss (that'd be the echo factor people). The big quarter century mark. Oh, how they grow up so fast! Happy birthday C-Bear.***

Jro to Jho. Hell of a season.

2007-08-21T17:28:00.000-04:00

A couple weekends ago some of the Fairfield girls witnessed our first friend take the plunge. J-Ro, as most of us know her, is in the know-how when it comes to throwing a legendary wedding-weekend blowout. Prior to the big festivities, however, there was some concern about J-Ro taking on the Scottish hubby's name. Could J-Ro be dropped all of a sudden for J-Ho (or Jen Hornby for the more mature)? Matters were quickly resolved. It can't be done... And there was much rejoicing.

The ceremony took place in the gardens of the Lincoln family estate in Arlington, VT with a surreal mountainous landscape on all sides. Lize, Noel and I faired well with our readings, improvising with delayed gestures and exaggerated winks to win over the audience. Needless to say, we were then familiar enough characters amongst the sea of J-Ro's relatives that we were able to skip the repetitive introductions. Whew. And onto the dance floor. Here's where things got a little hairy (and I'm not just referring to what the Scottish groomsmen had in store under their quilts for us). The electric slide was performed to a multitude of songs, why should it be constrained to only its self-title? the bride's mother and her friends did a lil diddy about liverwurst (naturally), the bar acquiesced to doing shooters one hour before closing, and Lize wound up with her feet off the ground for the last 30 minutes of the reception. Some chose to go to a lake house where the groomsmen were staying and others, namely me and Shannon, unintentionally called it an early night and crashed at the Cutleaf Motel, which after night one had inherited the nickname "the Cut-throat".

And when you think your body can't handle any more punishment.. you fall back on your go-to undergrad drink, vodka-180's. The following night the party picked up on cue but in J-Ro's frat-like basement (who's the dude with the pony?). While Noel was minding the bathroom floor, Jessie K and Mrs. Rochette were minding their pole dancing manners. Clearly I'm not one to stand by (even though it means clearing out the dance floor)..."I just want to DANCE".

A good time was had by all but in the end I'm thankful that I have time to prepare before wedding season truly strikes.

*** But before we depart, let us take a moment to wish Liana, my sista from anotha motha, a happy happy birfday!! May you wear Bird's # well.
It'd be a lie if I said I don't feel like dancing to celebrate with you but looks like we'll have to wait this one out. Cheers L-diggity!***

Dance your pants off

2007-08-09T00:13:00.000-04:00

Chris Burke, of the band Staff Johnson, will be performing next Thursday night, the 16th, at, you guessed it, Copperfields. It's a guaranteed night of cheap drinks, dance-your-pants-off music and endless comic relief. Unfortunately the ginger on the bongos will not be granting us with his presence but you never know what Burkey's got up his sleeve. A guest appearance on the harmonica by Aymer (all the way from England)? Wouldn't be the first time. In any case, come support our fellow local musicians, and brain tumor research at the same time Thursday evening.

Here's a jingle from State Radio who has recently added a new member on the drums and back up vocals, Mike Najarian, former Staff Johnson drummer:
Camilo

And a Burke classic to whet the appetite:
Haiti

Burkey will also be jamming with a buddy this Friday at the Sweet Water Cafe in Boston for all the non-Fairfield folk around this weekend (as opposed to the FU group who will be attending Jro's wedding in VT).

Nantizzy

2007-08-07T20:53:00.000-04:00

Lbowe, Skwar, Doyle and I had a girl's venture to Nantucket last weekend, a place where you would only find a McCabe if one of his/her good buddies were to choose it as a wedding destination or if he/she has the option of leaving a downpour wave in the stix for some resocialization and a little beach action.

A few daiquiris into our first night, an investigation-what was to become an ongoing quest throughout the weekend- was undertaken: Is it possible to find a guy wearing both a whale belt AND a gold chain (and by chain I'm referring to a substantial Piece sported mostly by the North Shore born and raised)? Our conclusion: The data points to implausible. But if one breed were to convert, the chain wearer would most likely be the switch hitter.

In the end, no whale belts were purchased (and naturally no chains to be found on the island) so no harm done.

Maine: the way life should be

2007-08-01T03:01:00.000-04:00

So here I am. Just around the bend at the 2nd white barn, beyond the ladder supporting itself against a half-cut tree, past the squashed frogs decorating the dirt road, around the vacant corn field and to the left of the lone yellow tractor.
I guess this is what you can come to expect when you apply for a "rural community health rotation" in Maine. And I love it.

I'm renting a lake house, which is actually situated on a pond in Sabattus, ME. My roommate has transformed this cottage into a pimped out bachelor pad (stainless steel appliances, massive flat screen tv and don't forget the hot tub), save for the bear and moose figurines scattered throughout the house to remind us we're surrounded by woods.

4 days out of the week you'll find me at Sabattus Street Primary Care working under the supervision of an internist and in the company of two 22-year old newly engaged medical assistants (I just might be the only single and/or childless person over the age of 20 in these parts). Although I've only completed my first year of an NP program, the physician treats me as though I'm already a practicing nurse practitioner. In my first week, I've given several rectal exams (my apologies to my first patient for haphazardly giving myself a tour), administered a steroid injection to an arthritic patient, performed a pap and done cryotherapy on a patient's junk. An exciting week all in all.

Cousin Kevin McCabe, from Waterville, had his all-star game Friday night that ended in a huge victory for the East. Kev, never having kicked a field goal before and effortlessly nailing them consecutively throughout the game, is now convinced that he is going to be a kicker in the minor league soon enough. More power to you Kev-o.

Also, had some Beantown visitors over the weekend. We hiked up a rather minuscule hill called Bradbury Mt., hit up the Lewiston area dive bars, tested the local pond water and sat around in the non-hot hottub. The highlight of the weekend though would have to be the neighbor's water trampoline with inflatable tubes perfect for gladiator dueling. Either no one was home or some dude was sitting inside with his buddies making a few bucks. Now that's a disturbing thought.

Napoleon

2007-07-31T20:56:00.000-04:00

For those of you Miltonites out there, I'm sure you're familiar with the town legend, Rich Hill, who's currently playing for the Chicago Cubs. Well if you missed last week's game on Fox, check him out rattling off the line-up for 2 announcers who have never heard of Napoleon Dynamite. Amazing.

Free Summer Concerts

2007-06-29T09:45:00.000-04:00

Starting July 12th and running through August 16th, WBOS will be sponsoring a concert series to be held at Copley Plaza in front of Trinity Church from 5:30 to 7:30 every Thursday.
Brandi Carlile kicks things off in just a couple weeks followed by a personal favorite from Longmeadow, MA, Martin Sexton.

Brandi Carlile - Hallelujah
Martin Sexton - Glory Bound

The complete schedule is as follows:

July 12 Brandi Carlile
with special guest The Dennis
Brennan Band

July 19 Martin Sexton
with special guest Chad Perrone

July 26 The Cat Empire
with special guest Eli "Paperboy"
Reed & The Trueloves

August 2 Double bill with deSol and Ryan Shaw

August 9 Fountains of Wayne
with special guest Sarah Borges & The
Broken Singles

August 16 Double bill with Jonatha Brooke and Matt
Nathanson

Giving NY a second look

2007-06-28T11:49:00.000-04:00

Being unemployed as I am, I find that I need to contrive activities to entertain myself for longer hours.

I am now a member of the Dragon Boat race Boston team, with whom I'll be "competing" (or trying to keep in step with) in Montreal come late July, and a participant-in-training for the upcoming Holliston, MA triathlon, in which Dales and Corliss are conveniently enrolled for now as well. If I'm going to sacrifice my body, it will not be alone.

Last weekend, I hopped on the oh-so-reliable fung wah bus and headed to NY, Brooklyn specifically. What a thriving neighborhood Carroll Gardens is. So many quaint restaurants with hidden gardens in the rear and eclectic boutiques lining the streets. I was in my element. Before venturing out in the mornings, I attempted to tackle the Wall Street Journal (or at least the first page). Didn't follow most of it, but hey, I was in NY, it felt appropriate at the time. Spent some time at a couple roof-top bars, a hippie loft party, Buddy Burritos, and the Broadway comedy, Spelling Bee. As an FYI, I would stay clear of the F line late at night and it doesn't hurt to stay awake for your subway ride home either.

Speaking of Brooklyn, it was my first time in the majestic Symphony Hall last night. The Brooklyn band Hem performed on stage with the Boston Pops. Knowing little about Hem, since they were a last minute replacement for M. Ward, I didn't know quite what to expect. There were 6 band members in total last night, 4 being of the original crew. The lead singer was a stately dressed woman in her late 30's with soft features and red curls framing her face. She appeared soft-spoken but was able to project her voice effortlessly so that it filled the hall. Although the electric guitarists contradicted each other in style and composure, one resembling Jamie's good friend Ben Beach with his sheik and intelligent upright-citizen look (or maybe it was just the glasses), while the other was chosen for his role as a bad guy in a Quinten Tarantino film, they were able to harmonize beautifully together. In addition to the lead singer, there was a young, modest back-up vocalist, an Italian pianist with an incredible hockey cut, and a mad scientist on the slide. The slide and the harmonica offered a twangy sound that the audience seemed to appreciate. Hem's music has been labeled as pop country at times, and it became evident why when I caught myself imagining one of their songs as the theme to a Disney animated movie. For a mellow band with a number of lonely lyrics, Hem had the right amount of liveliness and spunk, with the help of the Pops of course, including a xylophonist, a dj keyboardist and an electric drummer. A very impressive demonstration all in all.

Get in my belly

2007-06-27T12:56:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite past-times; eating! How could I resist?
These are just a few restaurants I've explored in the past and some that I have yet to visit but am looking forward to checking out.

If you're looking for a reasonably priced intimate dinner, give the Dish a try on Shamut Ave in the South End. The tiny neighborhood restaurant maintains its familiar staff and regular customers due to its relaxed, amicable and dog-friendly atmosphere. One of the only places in the area with a sidewalk patio, the Dish is great place for a first date or catching up with an old friend.

There's a new addition to Porter Square's eatery selection: the Ethiopian restaurant Addis Red Sea, which currently has a location on Tremont St in the South End, offers cheap, authentic-style eats. With its opening just last month, the restaurant has seen its fans queuing down the street to sample the expanded menu and traditional decor.

Upon returning from Morocco, I was on a search to appease my newly acquired taste for homemade bread (I don't actually like the taste of bread but somehow this thin pita style appetizer worked for me!) and hummus that I had enjoyed in the open markets of Marrakesh. I found the next best thing. The environment of Tangierno, in Charlestown, emulated some of the nicer restaurants in Morocco, aside from the price inflation. Couches, flowy curtains and dimly lit candles suggest a romantic setting. However, the belly dancers on Thursday evenings and the traditional upbeat music, perhaps at a decibel too high, can be quite distracting. Good for a night out with the girls and throwing back some Belgian beers.

The artsy Spanish-American spot, Central Kitchen, on Mass Ave in Central Square, is a favorite among locals. One of the "Terrace Boys", Epps, over in Arlington gives it high reviews and he's always been a straight shooter when it comes to dining out. Epps even referred his roommate, Mike Warner, to dazzle his date there one evening. Turns out there was a second date to follow so it must have been a combination of Warner's charm and the Spanish beauties performing in the middle of the dining room that made her swoon.

Beehive, the recently opened and frequently talked about South End restaurant and jazz club is located in what was formerly a boiler room on Tremont Street underneath the Cyclorama . The wait here has been borderline ridiculous, especially since you won't be able to hear yourself let alone others once you're inside but apparently there is reason for the hype. The food is Middle Eastern and Mediterranean and on a slow night, like a Tuesday, you'll be able to appreciate the "gypsy food" that's served late into the night and the bustling (hopefully less so midweek) atmosphere of this lively nightspot. If nothing else, at least you will be supporting local Berklee students who have been nailing gigs here most nights of the week.

Amateurs only

2007-06-26T14:27:00.000-04:00

With my brother Scott's blog, which has been somewhat recently revived and therefore followed with a close eye as of late, and with Jamie's ability, the leader of the 3 siblings, to create a web page that allows us to follow his ongoings in San Francisco, with the main attraction being none other than my talented young niece, Marley, I myself have been inspired to create a trial compilation page.
.
Ideally, I'd like to share some sites that appeal to me in hopes that someone else might find them equally as useful or entertaining. Or at least, I can provide a simple distraction for those hard-working employees out there.

For starters, I want to introduce you to some tracks created by my college buddy and soon-to-be roommate, John Doney. Dones is currently in Costa Rica in hopes of learning some Spanish and producing some tunes that will complete his album. Upon return, he will be holding a cd release party in the Boston area. I'll have dates posted once they're finalized.
Here are a couple sample songs from Doney's cd, "The Trail of John Doney":

Mouthful of Tears
Sadder Days