For Better Or For Worse is ending.
Now for Marmaduke, Garfield, Cathy...
---
Maybe it's the fact that the Funny Pages of the Newspapers have an all-ages audience that they are so dreadfully bland, but the Sunday Comics have been a desolate place for a while now.
Pearls Before Swine and Non-Sequiter are the only two genuinely funny strips I can think of off the top of my head. Doonesburry doesn't count, because the Detroit Free Press moved it to the Op-Ed section.
---
It's been cool for three days and rainy for two. Is fall almost here? I'd like that a lot.
---
Am I trying to make a new record for the most posts in a month? I don't know, am I?
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
James Jean Leaves Fables
James Jean, the truly fantastic artist behind the covers of Fables is moving on to personal projects.
Words cannot describe how upset I am. Even the weakest Fables issues were ramped up by the fantastic covers.
Sniffles.
Words cannot describe how upset I am. Even the weakest Fables issues were ramped up by the fantastic covers.
Sniffles.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Garg In The News!
Claire came back today. She's tired, and I think I might be slightly ill in the belly.
But who cares about my abdominal terror! The Gargoyle is famous again!
Read about it! Read about it!
Cathy Fisher is the current EIC. I handed it off to her. It's a shame that there isn't much interest to do a story on the Garg. There's so much great history in there, as well as wonderful people.
Despite having so much trouble trying to get a job, I don't regret a minute of the time I spent at Student Pub workin' on the Garg. Except for the hours I wasted listening to the Pixies and staring at the wall.
---
Been trying to install MySQL on my computer so I can work on WordPress locally. It's not going well.
But who cares about my abdominal terror! The Gargoyle is famous again!
Read about it! Read about it!
Cathy Fisher is the current EIC. I handed it off to her. It's a shame that there isn't much interest to do a story on the Garg. There's so much great history in there, as well as wonderful people.
Despite having so much trouble trying to get a job, I don't regret a minute of the time I spent at Student Pub workin' on the Garg. Except for the hours I wasted listening to the Pixies and staring at the wall.
---
Been trying to install MySQL on my computer so I can work on WordPress locally. It's not going well.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Top O' The Morning
For the first time since I got cable, I am not furious at MSNBC. It tuns out that when there is something actually going on, and real issues to talk about, these guys aren't so bad!
Maybe I'll warm up to CNN or FOX? Probably not.
---
Skeletons of cartoon characters. This is so cool.
---
Bob Thompson from the Washington Post discovers comics! Holy crap!
What bothers me the most about the article, and the responses from those interviewed, is that everyone is acting like comics just appeared out of nowhere. Ostensibly, this is because Thompson is interested in the elusive "Graphic Novel," but there is a whole history of comics that begins before graphic novel.
Everyone is acting like it's a shock that comics are popular, not remembering that Superman made a mint back in the 30's, and that comics didn't hit hard times until the 70's.
Lastly, I think it's silly to draw distinctions between graphic novels and collections of single issues. Most collections end up being organized by story arcs, so there is no reason to consider them as something less than a "graphic novel." Crime and Punishmen, and oodles of Dickens were written as serial magazine pieces -- we still call them novels!
All in all it's a pretty good article, and I am glad to see so much attention given to a great medium. My favorite bit is Scott McCloud answering why comics are so popular these days:
"Comics. Got. Better."
I think he might be right; I think the last decade has seen some truly amazing stuff.
---
Have you heard of Okami? I am told it is a great game. I bought it for the Wii sometime ago, but I haven't played it yet. Why? Because I promised myself I wouldn't until I had a job.
Anyway, CAPCOM used art from IGN.com for the cover and just now got around to issuing replacements. They look pretty awesome.
Maybe I'll warm up to CNN or FOX? Probably not.
---
Skeletons of cartoon characters. This is so cool.
---
Bob Thompson from the Washington Post discovers comics! Holy crap!
What bothers me the most about the article, and the responses from those interviewed, is that everyone is acting like comics just appeared out of nowhere. Ostensibly, this is because Thompson is interested in the elusive "Graphic Novel," but there is a whole history of comics that begins before graphic novel.
Everyone is acting like it's a shock that comics are popular, not remembering that Superman made a mint back in the 30's, and that comics didn't hit hard times until the 70's.
Lastly, I think it's silly to draw distinctions between graphic novels and collections of single issues. Most collections end up being organized by story arcs, so there is no reason to consider them as something less than a "graphic novel." Crime and Punishmen, and oodles of Dickens were written as serial magazine pieces -- we still call them novels!
All in all it's a pretty good article, and I am glad to see so much attention given to a great medium. My favorite bit is Scott McCloud answering why comics are so popular these days:
"Comics. Got. Better."
I think he might be right; I think the last decade has seen some truly amazing stuff.
---
Have you heard of Okami? I am told it is a great game. I bought it for the Wii sometime ago, but I haven't played it yet. Why? Because I promised myself I wouldn't until I had a job.
Anyway, CAPCOM used art from IGN.com for the cover and just now got around to issuing replacements. They look pretty awesome.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Earthbound, Penguins, Elitism
A penguin has been granted Norweigan Knighthood.
How the mighty land of vikings has fallen.
---
My friend Kris has an interesting post about why having an "Average Joe" in the White House is a catastrophically bad idea.
This is the same reason why I do not listen to any show that has a call-in segment that values the opinions of the average listener/viewer.
---
Real-live rocket scientists say that, as of right now, we will never reach the stars.
I beg to differ. With the current job market, I am willing to bet that there are thousands of college students hanging around, not doing much, that would love to be blasted into space as part of a multi-generational flight to the stars.
With all the English Majors that would (undoubtedly) be on board, expect a glut of star-gazing based books of poetry, and multi-volume epics with titles like, "Spending 40 Years Sharing A Room With A Man Named Carl Who Snores," or "Doesn't This Thing Have 'Reverse?'"
Of course, I assume they'd go crazy and end up eating each other. Maybe we should send cults into space? I think most of them are expecting it anyway. They're already trained to invest their lives in sketchy plans.
---
Tenzing has Kennel Cough. It is potentially dangerous, but the vet is not concerned. I'm medicating him with antibiotics, and he seems to be doing fine. The sneezing is actually kind of cute.
The only downside is that he can't play with other dogs, or go to the dog park. He is not impressed.
---
Dig George Abbot White's photos. He's an alum of the now defunct Generation lit-mag, but hangs around with the GargALUMS a lot.
Try to find me!
---
Applied for many, many jobs today. Many in journalism, many in publishing.
Free-lance articles shaping up nicely. Here's hopin'!
How the mighty land of vikings has fallen.
---
My friend Kris has an interesting post about why having an "Average Joe" in the White House is a catastrophically bad idea.
This is the same reason why I do not listen to any show that has a call-in segment that values the opinions of the average listener/viewer.
---
Real-live rocket scientists say that, as of right now, we will never reach the stars.
I beg to differ. With the current job market, I am willing to bet that there are thousands of college students hanging around, not doing much, that would love to be blasted into space as part of a multi-generational flight to the stars.
With all the English Majors that would (undoubtedly) be on board, expect a glut of star-gazing based books of poetry, and multi-volume epics with titles like, "Spending 40 Years Sharing A Room With A Man Named Carl Who Snores," or "Doesn't This Thing Have 'Reverse?'"
Of course, I assume they'd go crazy and end up eating each other. Maybe we should send cults into space? I think most of them are expecting it anyway. They're already trained to invest their lives in sketchy plans.
---
Tenzing has Kennel Cough. It is potentially dangerous, but the vet is not concerned. I'm medicating him with antibiotics, and he seems to be doing fine. The sneezing is actually kind of cute.
The only downside is that he can't play with other dogs, or go to the dog park. He is not impressed.
---
Dig George Abbot White's photos. He's an alum of the now defunct Generation lit-mag, but hangs around with the GargALUMS a lot.
Try to find me!
---
Applied for many, many jobs today. Many in journalism, many in publishing.
Free-lance articles shaping up nicely. Here's hopin'!
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Claire is in Iceland
Having finished her stint in PEI, Claire has gone off to Iceland with her family.
She sent me this picture of the Law Rock at the Allthing. I am exceedingly jealous, and would love to go back.
She sent me this picture of the Law Rock at the Allthing. I am exceedingly jealous, and would love to go back.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Oh Yes, The Interviews
The first week in August I had two interviews -- that's right, real-live in-person interviews -- for jobs in the DC area.
The first was with SAIC, specifically with an independent group within the company, part of which is currently doing the communications for PEO Soldier, the group which does procurement for the Army.
The second was for a grant writing position with PlanetAid, a group which deals in clothes donations.
The SAIC interview went pretty well, although I got the impression that I might not have the level of experience they were looking for.
The PlanetAid interview did not go well. It took me two hours to get to the interview, because of traffic and bad directions. I was slightly late, but I got the impression from the conversation that it wouldn't have mattered if I came in on time. It was made clear to me that they were not interested in an untested grant writer, although they did suggest that I could be brought on as a "misc. copy writer." However, that discussion was also pretty fruitless because of the 4-hour round trip commute. To be honest, I am not interested in that much driving, and I don't think they are either.
I am still sort of in touch with some people at SAIC, and there might be more developments on that front.
---
I am more disappointed then I sound, but I know I have to keep trying.
I am still sending out many, many applications (several unsolicited resumes as well) but have decided to venture a few steps down The Dark Path.
The previously alluded "Dark Path" is where I start writing articles and shopping them around to magazines and newspapers. It is the beginning of Freelance Writing. While I like to imagine that such a career involves being either a grizzled, lovable rogue or a noble knight clad in shining armor, I suspect that the reality might be...something else.
To be clear: I am still looking for a full-time job. However, with so many (understandable) concerns about my experience and work history, I figure it would be prudent to pad the resume and try to make some money.
---
If you've been following my Twitterings, you'll notice that I did some traveling this past weekend.
I flew out to Prince Edward Island, the location of Claire's family reunion. This involved her mother's family, who gather at different locations every year. PEI, as it is called, is especially beloved since it was where Claire's grandmother was raised during the depression (as I am told).
Take a look at it here. PEI photos to follow, but this is already much too long.
The first was with SAIC, specifically with an independent group within the company, part of which is currently doing the communications for PEO Soldier, the group which does procurement for the Army.
The second was for a grant writing position with PlanetAid, a group which deals in clothes donations.
The SAIC interview went pretty well, although I got the impression that I might not have the level of experience they were looking for.
The PlanetAid interview did not go well. It took me two hours to get to the interview, because of traffic and bad directions. I was slightly late, but I got the impression from the conversation that it wouldn't have mattered if I came in on time. It was made clear to me that they were not interested in an untested grant writer, although they did suggest that I could be brought on as a "misc. copy writer." However, that discussion was also pretty fruitless because of the 4-hour round trip commute. To be honest, I am not interested in that much driving, and I don't think they are either.
I am still sort of in touch with some people at SAIC, and there might be more developments on that front.
---
I am more disappointed then I sound, but I know I have to keep trying.
I am still sending out many, many applications (several unsolicited resumes as well) but have decided to venture a few steps down The Dark Path.
The previously alluded "Dark Path" is where I start writing articles and shopping them around to magazines and newspapers. It is the beginning of Freelance Writing. While I like to imagine that such a career involves being either a grizzled, lovable rogue or a noble knight clad in shining armor, I suspect that the reality might be...something else.
To be clear: I am still looking for a full-time job. However, with so many (understandable) concerns about my experience and work history, I figure it would be prudent to pad the resume and try to make some money.
---
If you've been following my Twitterings, you'll notice that I did some traveling this past weekend.
I flew out to Prince Edward Island, the location of Claire's family reunion. This involved her mother's family, who gather at different locations every year. PEI, as it is called, is especially beloved since it was where Claire's grandmother was raised during the depression (as I am told).
Take a look at it here. PEI photos to follow, but this is already much too long.
Friday, August 08, 2008
Not Virginia
Amazing story of the Peg-Leg biologist.
You must read this. If you read nothing else on this blog, read this.
---
John Dobbertin, GargALUM extraordinaire, gets a mention in the Wisconsin State Journal. He's set up a massive exhibit on humor magazines, of which the Gargoyle is a big part. Check it out.
You must read this. If you read nothing else on this blog, read this.
---
John Dobbertin, GargALUM extraordinaire, gets a mention in the Wisconsin State Journal. He's set up a massive exhibit on humor magazines, of which the Gargoyle is a big part. Check it out.
Virginia
First things first, my current address is:
1801 DeWitt Ave, Unit E
Also, many thanks for the lovely cards, e-greetings (via facebook or otherwise), and packages that have accompanied my birthday. It's been great!
Traveling
Early on the morning of August 1, Dad and I set off on a great adventure. We began with Dad commenting on the fact that I hadn't showered that morning. My logic was, as always, impeccable: there's no point in me showering if I am going to be sweaty and nasty by the time I show up!
Our route was pretty straightforward, and was quite pretty. I-70 through Ohio was a beautiful prairie dawn. Further east, the seemingly unending hours on the Pennsylvania Turnpike offered some truly fantastic views -- immense gorges, infinite acres of green trees, hundreds of miles between rest stops, etc.
Unfortunately there are no pictures of any of this. However, this is probably a good thing since my truck was handling so poorly under the additional tonnage of all my worldly possessions that it would have been well-nigh impossible to use a camera and stay on the road. All loaded down, Bucephalus did look like the Beverly Hillbillymobile, which made me happy. It was a real trick to stay about 65mph when going up hills, though.
We relied partially on our wits and natural sense of direction to get us there. I stuck my nose out the window, using my superhuman senses to track my way towards Virginia. Dad, ever the woodsman, would stop occasionally and inspect the trees and undergrowth in order to find out exact location, and the direction we should go from there. The Garmin GPS unit was also very important.
We had no problems in our journey until we neared D.C. proper, where we were hindered by poor road design and bad traffic. Finally, we appeared in Alexandria, in our finery. The total trip time was about 11 hours.
Moving
The moving and unpacking process was relatively painless. By the time we had arrived, Claire's stuff had been unpacked and put away. In short order, my things were brought up and the apartment was filled with new boxes.
Over the next day-or-so, the boxes disappeared. Claire's family (and friend) were invaluable in helping us get things set up for habitation. Though Dad could not stay the whole weekend, he did me the huge favor of setting up my brand-spankin' new shelves. They look fantastic.
By Saturday evening, 95% of the boxes were gone and the apartment has reached what may be considered it's final form.
---
By request, here are more pictures of Tenzing, the Puppy.
1801 DeWitt Ave, Unit E
Alexandria, VA
22301
Also, many thanks for the lovely cards, e-greetings (via facebook or otherwise), and packages that have accompanied my birthday. It's been great!
Traveling
Early on the morning of August 1, Dad and I set off on a great adventure. We began with Dad commenting on the fact that I hadn't showered that morning. My logic was, as always, impeccable: there's no point in me showering if I am going to be sweaty and nasty by the time I show up!
Our route was pretty straightforward, and was quite pretty. I-70 through Ohio was a beautiful prairie dawn. Further east, the seemingly unending hours on the Pennsylvania Turnpike offered some truly fantastic views -- immense gorges, infinite acres of green trees, hundreds of miles between rest stops, etc.
Unfortunately there are no pictures of any of this. However, this is probably a good thing since my truck was handling so poorly under the additional tonnage of all my worldly possessions that it would have been well-nigh impossible to use a camera and stay on the road. All loaded down, Bucephalus did look like the Beverly Hillbillymobile, which made me happy. It was a real trick to stay about 65mph when going up hills, though.
We relied partially on our wits and natural sense of direction to get us there. I stuck my nose out the window, using my superhuman senses to track my way towards Virginia. Dad, ever the woodsman, would stop occasionally and inspect the trees and undergrowth in order to find out exact location, and the direction we should go from there. The Garmin GPS unit was also very important.
We had no problems in our journey until we neared D.C. proper, where we were hindered by poor road design and bad traffic. Finally, we appeared in Alexandria, in our finery. The total trip time was about 11 hours.
Moving
The moving and unpacking process was relatively painless. By the time we had arrived, Claire's stuff had been unpacked and put away. In short order, my things were brought up and the apartment was filled with new boxes.
Over the next day-or-so, the boxes disappeared. Claire's family (and friend) were invaluable in helping us get things set up for habitation. Though Dad could not stay the whole weekend, he did me the huge favor of setting up my brand-spankin' new shelves. They look fantastic.
By Saturday evening, 95% of the boxes were gone and the apartment has reached what may be considered it's final form.
 |
| Virginia Apartment: Awesome |
---
By request, here are more pictures of Tenzing, the Puppy.
 |
| Tenzing |
Sunday, August 03, 2008
"We are monkeys with money and guns."
I have moved in to Virginia! Post regarding this coming soon! What follows is a post about other things!
---
Tom Waits proves that, once again, he is one of America's greatest natural resources.
Here's an interview he performed on himself -- naturally, without a license.
And here's his press conference video.
---
Have you seen "Garfield Minus Garfield?" It's a simple idea. By removing Garfield from the comic strip, it becomes clear that Jon is insane -- trapped in some kind of personal, existential hell.
The Beat informs me that there is a forthcoming book of Garfield Minus Garfield. However, it will include the original comic strips. This does not impress me.
What does impress me is that Jim Davis, noted sell-out and Garfield artist fully supports and endorses the Garfield-Minus-Garfield concept. While this moves him up several notches in my book, I suppose I should not be impressed. He's already repackaged the Garfield concept in as many forms imaginable for fun and profit; the next logical step would be to sell you the same product but without the product.
---
Tom Waits proves that, once again, he is one of America's greatest natural resources.
Here's an interview he performed on himself -- naturally, without a license.
And here's his press conference video.
---
Have you seen "Garfield Minus Garfield?" It's a simple idea. By removing Garfield from the comic strip, it becomes clear that Jon is insane -- trapped in some kind of personal, existential hell.
The Beat informs me that there is a forthcoming book of Garfield Minus Garfield. However, it will include the original comic strips. This does not impress me.
What does impress me is that Jim Davis, noted sell-out and Garfield artist fully supports and endorses the Garfield-Minus-Garfield concept. While this moves him up several notches in my book, I suppose I should not be impressed. He's already repackaged the Garfield concept in as many forms imaginable for fun and profit; the next logical step would be to sell you the same product but without the product.
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