. . . the end of the line

Fever Ray - "Keep The Streets Empty"

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-11-24T08:13:26-05:00

Here's the brand new video from Fever Ray. It was released 20 minutes ago! It's a pretty creepy video but unfortunately does not have Karin or any of the themes that Fever Ray built over the other videos from the album.

Favorite TV shows of the week: November 15th to November 21st

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-11-22T21:45:25-05:00

1) Curb Your Enthusiasm - “The Table Read" No Change
2) It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia - “The D.E.N.N.I.S. System” No Change
3) Dexter - “Road Kill" No Change
4) Fringe - “August” +2
5) 30 Rock - “Sun Tea” No Change
6) Family Guy - “Quagmire's Baby" +2
7) South Park - “Pee” +3
8) Super Dave's Spike-Tacular - “Explosive Debut... Welcome Back Super!” New
9) The Office - “Shareholder's Meeting" -4
10) Modern Family - “Great Expectations” Not Aired
11) V - “A Bright New Day” No Change
12) House - “Teamwork” -3
13) Parks and Recreation - “Hunting Trip" -1
14) Community - “Environmental Science" -1
15) Cleveland - “Ladie's Night" +1
16) Sit Down, Shut Up - “SpEd" +1
17) The Simpsons - “The Devil Wears Nada" Not Aired
18) American Dad - “Shallow Vows" -2
19) Heroes - “Brother's Keeper" No Change

SNL Digital Short: Two Worlds Collide ft. Reba McEntire

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-11-22T11:57:11-05:00

Depeche Mode - "Fragile Tension"

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-11-21T11:58:12-05:00

Here is the music video for "Fragile Tension", the fourth video from the album "Sounds Of The Universe" by Depeche Mode. Pretty neat effects.

Favorite TV shows of the week: November 8th to November 14th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-11-15T15:14:51-05:00

1) Curb Your Enthusiasm - “Officer Krupke" +1
2) It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia - “Mac and Dennis Break Up” -1
3) Dexter - “Slack Tide" No Change
4) The Office - “Murder" +3
5) Bored to Death - “Take A Dive” +1
6) 30 Rock - “The Problem Solvers” +1
7) Fringe - “Of Human Action” -3
8) Family Guy - “Brian's Got a Brand New Bag" Not Aired
9) House - “Known Unknowns” Not Aired
10) South Park - “Dances with Smurfs” No Change
11) V - “There Is No Normal Anymore” -2
12) Parks and Recreation - “The Camel" -2
13) Community - “Debate 109" No Change
14) Family Guy - “Hannah Banana" Not Aired
15) American Dad - “Man in the Moonbounce" Not Aired
16) Cleveland - “Cleveland Jr.'s Cherry Bomb" Not Aired
17) Sit Down, Shut Up - “Math Lab" Not Aired
18) Heroes - “Shadowboxing" No Change

SNL Digital Short: Get Out

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-11-15T13:52:58-05:00

Favorite TV shows of the week: November 1st to November 7th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-11-09T11:06:52-05:00

1) It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia - “Paddy's Pub: Home of the Original Kitten Mittens” +1
2) Curb Your Enthusiasm - “The Black Swan" -1
3) Dexter - “If I Had A Hammer" +1
4) Fringe - “Earthling” Not Aired
5) V - “Pilot” New
6) Bored to Death - “The Case of the Stolen Sperm” -3
7) The Office - “Double Date" -1
8) South Park - “The F Word” -1
9) 30 Rock - “Audition Day” -3
10) Parks and Recreation - “Ron and Tammy" -1
11) Modern Family - “En Garde” -1
12) Community - “Home Economics" -4
13) Heroes - “Once Upon A Time In Texas" No Change

SNL Digital Short: Firelight

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-11-08T09:58:55-05:00

YANKEES WIN THE 2009 WORLD SERIES!

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-11-05T00:35:32-05:00

I'm so happy that baseball is over, now I can get back to my regularly scheduled television programs, maybe even do something productive, maybe a bit of traveling, congratulations to the New York Yankees for winning the 2009 Major League Baseball Championship and great job to the Philadelphia Phillies, you put up a helluva fight!

Favorite TV shows of the week: October 25th to October 31st

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-11-04T18:01:04-05:00

a little late this week...

1) Bored to Death - “The Case of the Beautiful Blackmailer” +9
2) Curb Your Enthusiasm - “The Bare Midriff" -1
3) It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia - “The Gang Wrestles For The Troops” -1
4) Dexter - “Dirty Harry" -1
5) The Office - “Koi Pond" -1
6) 30 Rock - “Stone Mountain” -1
7) South Park - “Whale Whores” +1
8) Community - “Introduction to Statistics" +1
9) Parks and Recreation - “Greg Pitkitis" +1
10) Modern Family - “Run For Your Wife” -4
11) Heroes - “Strange Attractors" No Change
12) Sit Down, Shut Up - "Helen and Sue's High School Reunion" Not Aired

Baby G and the Pumpkin

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-10-29T17:11:47-04:00

Today we carved a pumpkin for Baby G. He seems to enjoy it.

more reviews of Fever Ray

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-10-28T15:33:19-04:00

It's been a month since I saw Fever Ray live and the performance still haunts me. Here's 2 more reviews of the show I was at:

http://www.clashmusic.com/live-review/fever-ray-live

"Attempting to put Fever Ray’s live show into words is a bit like trying to tell someone about the weird dream you had last night. It’s virtually impossible to describe the Swedish banshee’s visual and sonic spectacle and do it any kind of justice."

http://www.residentadvisor.net/review-view.aspx?id=6703

Fever Ray - "Stranger Than Kindness"

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-10-27T22:05:19-04:00

A few days ago Fever Ray posted a new video for their cover of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds "Stranger Than Kindness". The video is similar to what their live show is like. The video includes the costumes that the band wore, the stage sets and props and of course the lasers!

and here is the Fever Ray video for their own song "Triangle Walks" which is incredible. This video is also similar to their live show plus the music is more Fever Ray style than the Nick Cave cover.

Favorite TV shows of the week: October 18th to October 24th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-10-26T11:37:46-04:00

1) Curb Your Enthusiasm - “Denise Handicapped" No Change
2) It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia - “The World Series Defense” No Change
3) Dexter - “Dex Takes a Holiday" +1
4) The Office - “The Lover" -1
5) 30 Rock - “Into the Crevasse” No Change
6) House - “Brave Heart" +5
7) Modern Family - “Coal Digger” -1
8) South Park - “W.T.F.” +4
9) Community - “Football, Feminism and You" -1
10) Parks and Recreation - “KaBOOM!" -3
11) Bored to Death - “The Case of the Lonely White Dove” -2
12) The Simpsons - “Treehouse of Horror XX" +4
13) Dollhouse - “Belonging" Not Aired
14) Heroes - “Tabula Rasa" -1
15) The Cleveland Show - “Birth of a Salesman" -1
16) American Dad - “Brains, Brains and Automobiles” -1

Canal's

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-10-19T16:25:26-04:00

Just got in from Canal's. Purchased a whole bunch of beer and a couple bottles of wine to stock up for the winter. Now that the weather is getting cooler I chose stout beers and other darker beers. Here's a list of what I got today:

Samuel Smith oatmeal stout - 4 pack
Smithwicks ale - 6 pack
Guinness draught - 4 pack cans
Guiness 250th Anniversary Stout - 6 pack
Founders Breakfast Stout - 4 pack
Chimay Blue - 1 bottle

Rosenblum Cellars cabernet sauvignon
Rex Goliath 47 Pound Rooster cabernet sauvignon

The question that I have for you is, who wants to be my friend?

Favorite TV shows of the week: October 11th to October 17th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-10-18T14:04:56-04:00

1) Curb Your Enthusiasm - “The Hot Towel” +8
2) It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia - “The Waitress Is Getting Married” +1
3) The Office - “Mafia" -2
4) Dexter - “Blinded By The Light" -3
5) 30 Rock - “Season 4” New
6) Modern Family - “The Incident” No Change
7) Parks and Recreation - “Sister City" +2
8) Community - “Advanced Criminal Law" +3
9) Bored to Death - “The Case of the Stolen Skateboard” +3
10) Fringe - “Dream Logic" -3
11) House - “Instant Karma" -3
12) South Park - “Butters' Bottom Bitch” +4
13) Family Guy - “Spies Reminiscent of Us” No Change
14) Heroes - “Hysterical Blindness" +3
15) The Cleveland Show - “The One About Friends" No Change
16) Sit Down, Shut Up - “Tackin'" +1
17) American Dad - “Home Adrone” -1
18) The Simpsons - “The Great Wife Hope" No Change

SNL Digital Short: Brenda & Shaun

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-10-14T15:12:56-04:00

Favorite TV shows of the week: October 4th to October 10th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-10-11T19:46:55-04:00

1) The Office - “Niagara" +9
2) Dexter - “Remains To Be Seen" +1
3) It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia - “The Gang Gives Frank An Intervention” +3
4) Entourage - “Give A Little Bit” +1
5) Modern Family - “Come Fly With Me” -1
6) Dollhouse - “Belle Chose" +5
7) Fringe - “Momentum Deffered" No Change
8) House - “The Tyrant" No Change
9) Parks and Recreation - “Practice Date" +5
10) Curb Your Enthusiasm - “The Reunion” -9
11) Community - “Social Psychology" -2
12) Bored to Death - “The Case of the Missing Screenplay” +1
13) Family Guy - “Family Goy” -11
14) The Cleveland Show - “Da Doggone Daddy-Daughter Dinner Dance" -2
15) American Dad - “Moon Over Isla Island” No Change
16) South Park - “Dead Celebrities” New
17) Heroes - “Acceptance" No Change
18) Sit Down, Shut Up - “Mr. Hofftard Goes To Washington" No Change
19) The Simpsons - “Bart Gets A 'Z'" No Change

SNL Digital Short: On The Ground

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-10-05T13:17:41-04:00

Favorite TV shows of the week: September 27th to October 3rd

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-10-04T20:36:52-04:00

1) Curb Your Enthusiasm - “Vehicular Fellatio” +3
2) Family Guy - “Road to the Multiverse” New
3) Dexter - “Living the Dream" New
4) Modern Family - “The Bicycle Thief” +2
5) Entourage - “Scared Straight” No Change
6) It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia - “The Great Recession” -3
7) Fringe - “Fracture" -3
8) House - “Epic Fail" -4
9) Community - “Introduction to Film" +1
10) The Office - “The Promotion" -2
11) Dollhouse - “Instinct" -2
12) The Cleveland Show - “Pilot" New
13) Bored to Death - “The Alanon Case” -5
14) Parks and Recreation - “Beauty Pageant" -1
15) American Dad - “In Country... Club” New
16) Heroes - “Ink" -3
17) Sit Down, Shut Up - “Hurricane Willard" No Change
18) The Simpsons - “Homer the Whopper" New
19) Glee - “The Rhodes Not Taken" New

Fever Ray live reviews

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-10-01T20:23:20-04:00

Words cannot explain how incredible the Fever Ray concert was. It was 2 days ago and I'm still not sure if it was a dream (nightmare?) or not. I've seen many bands live, many different and unusual bands and seeing Fever Ray live was one of the most unique concerts that I've ever been to. From the costumes, performance, music and overall sound, everything was just near perfect, and there were LASERS!!!

Here's a bunch of links to reviews of the concert that I copied directed from Fever Ray's site:

Live Review: The Culture of Me at Webster Hall
October 1st, 2009
http://www.thecultureofme.com/culture/2009/09/photos-fever-ray-at-webster-hall-on-september-28.html
"In what will more than likely be set in stone as the single most memorable concert we'll experience in 2009, the mysterious project from Karin Dreijer-Andersson, Fever Ray, played their first NYC show on Monday night to a sold-out-like-whoa crowd at Webster Hall"

Live Review: Billboard at Webster Hall
October 1st, 2009
http://www.billboard.com/#/events/fever-ray-september-28-2009-new-york-webster-1004017621.story
"Inspired by equal parts "Exorcist," a Pink Floyd planetarium show and your grandmother's basement, Fever Ray's visual spectacle was as eerie and entrancing as the devilish, downbeat tunes pouring from the speakers. Though both of Andersson's projects are cut from the same experimental cloth, the differences between them were apparent from the first ominous notes. Where the Knife bubbles and bounds with one eye toward the dancefloor, Fever Ray slithers with subdued energy, quietly winding haunting vocals harmonies and peculiar keyboard melodies around hypnotizing tribal rhythms. Even with the cornea-searing lasers bouncing around the balcony, Fever's first-ever U.S. concert was a slower, more subtle affair than the Knife's Blue-Man-Group-on-ecstasy live events."

Live Review & Photos: Flavor Pill at Webster Hall
September 30th, 2009
http://flavorwire.com/40952/exclusive-qa-karin-dreijer-andersson-of-fever-ray-webster-hall
"As smoke swirled like liquid in the green light- and incense-filled the room, a blonde pop star took the stage, joining her band. She looked like Diana, goddess of the hunt, but without her usual mask. Finally we got a good look at Karin Dreijer Andersson: Swedish electronic artist, mother of two, and one half of the famously elusive brother-sister duo, The Knife."

Live Pictures: Pitchfork @ Webster Hall
September 30th, 2009
http://pitchfork.com/features/photos/galleries/743-fever-ray

Live Review: Vanity Fair at Webster Hall
September 30th, 2009
http://www.vanityfair.com/online/culture/2009/09/29/fever-ray-at-webster-hall-lasers-shrunken-heads-swedes.html
"If the psychedelic filmmaker Kenneth Anger somehow commandeered the controls at Walt Disney World's Haunted Mansion, the result might look like last night's Fever Ray show at Webster Hall in New York City."

Live Pictures: Prefix Magazine at Webster Hall
September 30th, 2009
http://www.prefixmag.com/photos/fever-ray-webster-hall-pics/
Photos from Fever Ray @ Webster Hall, New York City by Gabi Porter

Live Review & Pictures: Village Voice at Webster Hall
September 30th, 2009
http://blogs.villagevoice.com/music/archives/2009/09/live_fever_ray.php
"Starting the set off in an immense fur coat, she was like a mummified ancient royal waking from hibernation. But then she took off the beast and hung it up right next to her in front of a well-positioned fan–for the remainder of the show, the floating coat was Andersson's bellowing shadow, an insanely creepy imaginary friend, and a limp ghost all in one. Stripped of her cover, Andersson gave herself up just enough to warm up the audience while still maintaining her anonymity."
Village Voice also interviewed Karin before her Webster Hall performance, read it here.

Live Review & Pictures: Brooklyn Vegan at Webster Hall
September 30th, 2009
http://www.brooklynvegan.com/archives/2009/09/fever_ray_webst.html
"I saw Fever Ray tonight in New York. Amazing, powerful show. Those of you who have the freedom should try and get down to Webster Hall Tuesday, September 29th at noon and wait patiently for any tickets released by the venue (technically the show is sold out, but there are always extras)."

Live Review & Pictures: Stereogum at Webster Hall
September 30th, 2009
http://stereogum.com/archives/photo/fever-ray-webster-hall-nyc-92809_092661.html
"The various costumes and imagery were leitmotifs from Fever Ray's four super fantastic videos (a fifth is planned); whether they or the live show came first appears to be some chicken-egg shit according to her recent (and very read-worthy) interview with the Voice, so let's just say they've informed each other. There wasn't a narrative per se, but it was more dynamic than the Knife's show, and you'd hear people afterward comparing this shot favorably to that last one. Narrative or no, it did unfold with perfect symmetry: two bold lasers shot out before fanning out to open the show, and the myriad rays collapsed again into two simple beams of light to close it. House lights up, everybody left — partially wondering what they just watched, fully aware they had fodder for half-remembered nightmares all their own. It was spectacular, in every sense."

Fever Ray

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-09-29T16:53:46-04:00

I'm about to leave to see Fever Ray at the Webster Hall in NYC with my brother-in-law and Stephanie. I'm very excited, The Knife is one of my most favorite bands, i'd say Top 5, yes, I consider Fever Ray and The Knife the same, even though Karin's work in each are very different. Here's a video of what Fever Ray is like live:

Julia and Brian's Wedding

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-09-28T16:09:49-04:00

Over the weekend Stephanie and I went to my cousin Julia and Brian's wedding. It was at this place in South Jersey called Auletto Caterers and it was a lot of fun. Steph drank white wine and champagne and I had red wine and scotch. Unfortunately it rained so we couldn't stroll the grounds and pet the peacocks (yes, they had peacocks). I didn't take many pictures but I posted them to my Facebook which you can see HERE. It was a beautiful wedding, congratulations Julia and Brian.

Favorite TV shows of the week: September 20th to September 26th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-09-27T14:44:14-04:00

1) It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia - “The Gang Hits the Road” +1
2) House - “Broken" New
3) Fringe - “Night of Desirable Objects" -1
4) Curb Your Enthusiasm - “Funkhouser's Crazy Sister” New
5) Entourage - “Berried Alive” No Change
6) Modern Family - “Pilot” New
7) Bored to Death - “Stockholm Syndrome” New
8) The Office - “The Meetings" No Change
9) Dollhouse - “Vows" New
10) Community - “Spanish 101" No Change
11) Heroes - “Orientation" New
12) Parks and Recreation - “The Stakeout" No Change
13) Sit Down, Shut Up - “Taming of the Dude" No Change

SNL Digital Short: Megan's Roommate

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-09-27T09:48:21-04:00

SNL Digital Short: The Date

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-09-27T09:47:08-04:00

Depeche Mode - "Hole to Feed"

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-09-25T23:00:34-04:00

Here is the music video for "Hole To Feed", the third video from the album "Sounds Of The Universe" by Depeche Mode. It's gross.
Depeche Mode - Hole To Feed

Favorite TV shows of the week: September 13th to September 19th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-09-20T12:14:07-04:00

My first list of "Favorite TV Shows" for the Fall 2009. Every week I post my favorite TV shows I watched that week in order. Excluding all the sports and variety shows I watch. I love TV.

1) Fringe - “A New Day in the Old Town" New
2) It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia - “The Gang Exploits the Mortage Crisis” New
3) Entourage - “Security Briefs” New
4) The Office - “Gossip" New
5) Community - “Pilot" New
6) Parks and Recreation - “Pawnee Zoo" New
7) Sit Down, Shut Up - “High School Confidential" New
8) King of the Hill - “The Boy Can't Help It/The Honeymooners” New

Shoe Fitting X-Ray Machine

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-09-18T20:14:26-04:00

During dinner tonight my father told me about his trips to the shoe store as a child. Specifically a store in Trenton that his mother would take him to, the name of the store he can't remember, but he does remember an x-ray machine. Why on Earth would there be an x-ray machine in a shoe store? He remembered putting his feet (while in shoes) in a slot on the bottom of this machine and then looking through a viewer on the top and seeing the outline of the shoes as well as the bones in his feet. At first I thought he was crazy and that he just remembered looking at a picture of a skeleton foot through the viewer but he assured me that you were able to wiggle your toes and see it in real time as a skeleton. He believed these machines were always on or he had to press a button to see the x-ray.

I had never heard of such a thing so as soon as I go home from dinner I did some quick research to find out more about this machine. He thought that the shoe store in Trenton must have had it made for them and that it was one of a kind, my research shows that they were quite common in shoe stores throughout the country in the 30's, 40's and 50's. The machine was called a fluoroscope and they were used to somehow measure shoe sizes to get a "scientifically accurate" fit. I don't know how accurate they actually were though. The machines were slowly phazed out of service in the 60's after they were banned in many states due to the levels of radiation exposure to the user as well as anyone around the machines. That's a picture of one of the machines to the right. Nice find Dad!
I found most of this information HERE and HERE.

Fall TV

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-09-13T10:45:44-04:00

This is a big week for me. Most of my favorite shows are starting this week. Which means that this weekend I will start up again with my posting of my favorite tv shows of the week. Every season I post my favorite shows of the week. With the exception of Entourage, nothing has been on all summer. The last time I posted my favorite TV shows was on May 16th, that week my favorite show was My Name Is Earl. Most of my favorite shows start this week and the rest will be having their season premieres in the following weeks.

Even without the TV shows premiering, it's still a big week, today alone is the opening day of the NFL (GO RAVENS). US Open has the women's singles finals and 2 men's singles semifinals. The Yankees play today as the baseball season winds down. Tomorrow there is Monday night football and the men's singles final. This weekend is the first race of the NASCAR Chase for the Cup. Ryan Newman had a strong finish this past Saturday at Richmond which enabled him to qualify for the Chase.

In other words, there is going to be a lot on TV in the coming weeks and keep a look out for my Top TV Shows lists. I don't plan on leaving my house so if you'll have to come and visit me to see me!

Snake...

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-09-11T19:59:19-04:00

Today, my 18 month old nephew, Giovanni, referred to his penis as the "pink snake". True story.

Logitech Harmony One

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-09-09T19:34:27-04:00

I received my new universal remote today, the Logitech Harmony One. It's beautiful. The software I downloaded for my computer was extremely easy to use and guided me through all the steps necessary in order to get all of my devices working with the remote. Now I hit one button and the TV/DVR/HD Box/Amp all go on at once. It's great! After the easily guided setup I put the icons of all my favorite channels on the remote. Now if I wanted to watch the YES channel I just hit the YES logo on the remote and the channel comes on. It's a great compliment to my new HD TV.

Mr. Cool Suit

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-09-06T19:58:05-04:00

Last week I met some friends over at Houlihan's for karaoke. Our awesome waitress dubbed me "Mr. Cool Suit" as you can see on my tab. It wasn't so much a suit, just a jacket and tie, white pocket square, nice jeans and dress shoes. That's a picture of me singing next to Rick D. And yes, you read the tab correctly, that's $7.75 for a glass of Maker's Mark, crazy!

Paula Abdul says I'm beautiful...

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-08-28T21:55:22-04:00

For my birthday Paula wants me to know that I'm beautiful. And you know you hard it is to get a compliment from Paula.

My birthday is today and my friends Tiffany and Tommy and their children Jovie and Spencer sent me this card. It's totally awesome. It has glitter. Glitter makes every card better.

Duchess, Clothier

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-08-18T17:49:43-04:00

I posted some pictures of me in my suit from Duchess to my Facebook account. I’ve made it so everyone, including those that are not on Facebook can view the gallery. So check out the gallery by clicking HERE.

Duchess

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-08-17T14:57:01-04:00

My suit from Duchess arrived today. It’s incredibly beautiful. It’s a 3 piece suit from their Scotch Basic named 8 1/2 that is inspired by the Federico Fellini film 8 1/2. When I met with the Ladies of Duchess in NYC a couple months ago I chose the design of the suit and picked a fabric, I found the gray herringbone best fit with my skin color. Last week I bought a bunch of shirts, ties and pocket squares. I’m still looking for shoes. Here’s a couple of pictures of the unpacking of the suit. There’s more pictures of the unpacking on my Facebook and I’ll post some of me wearing the suit later this week.

Another week off...

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-08-16T13:20:33-04:00

I had off all last week. It was great. As you know from my last post I got a brand new Samsung HD TV. I love it. I spent most of the week watching TV and movies. It was great. I also actually went out all over to different places including the Yuengling Brewery! It was awesome. Also almost every day I went out shopping. That was equally as awesome, I love shopping. It’s certainly been a great week. Unfortunately all good things must end and I’m down to my last 2 days. Today I’ll be watching the NASCAR race and then who knows about tonight and tomorrow. Ladies?

Later this week my custom made suit from the ladies of Duchess should be arriving. I’m very excited about that. I’ll definitely be posting pictures here and to my Facebook. So check back with further updates on that. Now to watch the race. Go Ryan Newman!!!

Cablevision and my new HD TV

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-08-10T19:54:34-04:00

Oh Lord! On Friday I went to Cablevision and picked up a HD DVR box. I hooked it up to my old 27” CRT. Just having a HD box improved the picture. Today I got a brand new Samsung 32” HD TV. It’s incredible! I’m currently watching the Yankees game on YES HD. I’m blown away by how great the picture looks. I also have it connected to my surround sound system.

The Cablevision box is going to take some getting used to. I found that some HD channels aren’t coming in though. It’s just a black screen. Anybody know anything about that? Speed HD is one of them. Some of the channels just say “Initializing Channel” just for a message to come up saying it’s “currently unavailable”. Will these just work one day? Also, is there a way that I can block channels that I don’t subscribe to? Block them from channel up and down and block them in the guide itself. It’s annoying scrolling through the guide and seeing all of these channels that I don’t subscribe to. Channeling up and down and getting stuck on one is annoying too cause it has to load a screen that says I don’t get it.

the day after DM

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-08-02T20:55:45-04:00

Last night was the Depeche Mode and Peter, Bjorn and John concert at the Borgata in Atlantic City. This had to have been the hottest indoor concert I’ve ever been to. I’m talking temperature hot and because of that it appeared that the Depeche Mode set was unusually short and I was dying in there so I was completely OK with them cutting it short. Luckily the security detail occasionally handed out small bottles of water to the folks directly against the rail where we were. Folks more than 3 rows deep however didn’t get any. Then again, the fans against the rail by the stage were in line for over 5 hours before even getting into the arena. Below is a picture of me at the front of the line.

With that said, Depeche Mode were great as always. My sister was completely gushing whenever Dave did his sexy gestures and grinds. She got so excited. She’ll deny this of course and say he’s not her type or something like that. That’s a lie though. Martin looks older and older while Dave gets better looking.

The opening act was great. I’ve been a fan of Peter, Bjorn and John’s for a while but this is my first time seeing them live. Peter was so fun up on stage. Even off the stage when he lunged into the crowd directly in front of us while singing “Young Folks”. Of course he couldn’t get back on the stage, it was kinda sad but cute and funny at the same time. We all agreed that Peter would make an excellent play pal for Jen and Chris’s 17 month old son Giovanni. I’ll have to email him to see if he’s free.

It was a great concert, it also helped that before the show started I won $100 on the slots. It was a good night.

Depeche Mode with Peter, Bjorn & John TONIGHT!

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-08-01T12:43:09-04:00

I’m seeing Depeche Mode with Peter, Bjorn and John tonight at the Borgata in Atlantic City. I’m very excited! I love both bands! This is my 3rd time seeing Depeche Mode at the Borgata, my 14th time seeing them overall. Yea, I like them a lot!

Happy Birthday Jennifer!

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-07-26T17:19:04-04:00

Today is my sister’s birthday. I drew her a card. It’s a cow with a cat’s head that is about to drink from a crater filled with fruit punch. I hope that she likes it.

Happy birthday Jennifer!

The Ten

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-07-26T16:21:04-04:00

Gosh, I love NetFlix streaming. I just wish I had a better internet connection so that I can get better looking video quality. Last night I brought my laptop out back and streamed The Ten off of NetFlix’s site. I smoked a Drew Estate Root that I had aging in my humidor for years now and I drank some Maker’s Mark bourbon. It was a good night, albeit a little on the warm side.

Crosley Nomad

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-07-22T15:20:53-04:00

Excellent! I received my Crosley Nomad radio today. This radio is so awesome looking. I love the 1930’s design to it. I needed a radio to take with me on my picnics and this is the one, it even has an input for my iPod! My picnics have become that much more awesome. I hope it sounds as good as it looks!

Picnic Time

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-07-18T10:10:35-04:00

I finally got a chance to use the picnic basket that I had mentioned earlier. Last night Dana and I went on a picnic together. It was excellent. I threw out my nice plaid blanket. We loaded up the basket with delicious healthy foods and I brought a bottle of cabernet and a bottle of water. I dressed up but not too fancy, I wore my new Montecristo/Panama hat. Dana took some pictures, maybe she’ll post them to Facebook or something. We went to Sayen Gardens, very nice and relatively quiet location. You can see the envy on the few passerby’s faces. It was a beautiful evening.

Afterwards we went to a tattoo art show at Artworks in Trenton. The show was small and I felt out of place because I didn’t have a black t-shirt on with a devil on the front. Regardless, there was some interesting art and it wasn’t too far away.

I can hardly wait for the next picnic though. I have a sweet radio coming this week to bring along with me. It’s going to be super awesome. Dana and I will be credited for the rebirth of old fashioned picnics.

Moon

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-07-17T14:51:46-04:00

Earliest this week Dana and I saw the film MOON. It’s only been a few days but the more I think about it the more and more I like this film. Everything about this film is great. The music is awesome, the lighting is awesome and the acting is great. I was following the trailers since the first one became available and thought it looked great but I was surprised that the trailers really didn’t show much as to what the movie is really about. I really wish I could talk about it more but I’d hate to ruin it. But if you’re a fan of sci-fi mysteries then this one is a must-see. Great film.

R.I.P. Julia Beck

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-07-16T14:40:50-04:00

My grandmother passed away this past Sunday.

Julia A. Giovannetti Beck

PRINCETON - Julia A. Giovannetti Beck of Princeton entered into God's Care Sunday in the University Medical Center at Princeton, with her family by her side.

Born in Trenton, Julia was a lifelong Trenton/Hamilton area resident before moving to Princeton in 2005. Julia was a homemaker, who enjoyed cooking, spending time with her family and visits from her lifelong friend, Lucia. Predeceased by her parents, Fanny and Carl Giovannetti; her brother Don; three sisters, Mary, Helen and Laura; her husband, John D. Beck, Sr., and her son, James Beck, she is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, John & Susan D. Beck, Jr. of Yardville; two sisters, Margaret Fabiano and Ann Trippo; three grandchildren, John P. Beck, Jennifer Lucania, her husband Christopher, and Michael Beck, son of James Beck; also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 18, 2009 at Chambers D´Errico and Correnti Funeral Home, 825 Chambers St., Trenton. Burial will follow. Calling hours will be from 12 noon to 1 p.m. at the funeral home.

My Week Off...

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-07-13T16:57:34-04:00

I had off from work for the past week, here’s just some of the things that I did, in order:

Watched the Subway 250 at Daytona, Rock Band, went to Jen and Chris’s for Independence Day, watched the Coca-Cola Zero at Daytona, spectacular wreck coming to the checkered, Ryan Newman finished 20th, watched the Yankees, watched Jarhead, watched more Yankees, visiting my grandmother at Princeton Hospital, boo, Dr. House was off that day, boo, went to see The Hangover with Dana, yay! met the guys for a beer at Jo Jo’s, painted, Rock Band, watched more Yankees, watched Deadliest Catch, visited James and Jane in Long Branch, went to WindMill Hot Dogs, went to Lighthouse for water ice, watched more Yankees, watched Vincent & Theo, painted, went to the Freedom Fest Fair at the Horse Park of New Jersey, watched the Dollar General 300 at Chicagoland, Ryan Newman finished 22nd, Rock Band, watched the LifeLock.com 400 at Chicagoland, Ryan Newman finished 6th, watched the Yankees, bad news, grandmom Beck died today, boo, smoked a Macanudo Portofino that I’ve had in my humidor for about 5 years and drank some Maker’s Mark to honor grandmom, watched Howl’s Moving Castle, watched the new Entourage.

Today I just hung around and cleaned, put some stuff into storage and painted more, tonight I’ll finish off my “vacation” with the guys at Jo Jo’s Tavern. I’ll see you there!

R.I.P. Julia Beck

Happy Beck!

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-07-03T21:29:37-04:00

Some customers got me an ice cream cake today. Why? Because I am awesome. This is true. I am. What else could it be? Check out the cake:

Picnic Basket

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-07-01T17:20:40-04:00

I received my totally sweet new picnic basket today. It’s so rad. As you can see from the picture it has all the stuff that I would need for a picnic, plates, glasses, corkscrew and silverware. There are 2 spots for wine bottles, in my case one will be for wine and the other for a bottle of water. It has plenty of room inside for the usual picnic foods; fruit, cheese, crackers and bread. I have a nice picnic blanket and an old fashioned Crosley radio. I’m all ready for the summer. All I need now is for someone to join me on a picnic, ladies?

Weekend

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-06-29T19:29:24-04:00

On Saturday me and Chris and his workmates went down to Baltimore for the day. Headed over to the Brewer’s Art for some delicious beers and dinner. I forgot to pick up a couple bottles for myself. Maybe I’ll head down next week ago. After dinner we went to Camden Yards for the Orioles vs. Nationals game. Orioles won, after the game they were showing Field of Dreams on the big screen at the park. We decided to skip that and instead headed to Little Italy and my favorite dessert place Vaccaro’s. I love that place, whenever I’m in town I have to stop there and get the tiramisu gelato. Gosh that sure is good.

Yesterday I watched the race. Ryan Newman had a lousy car and got a little banged up from some wrecks around him. It looked like it was about to rain and Newman was leading but the crew miscalculated how much fuel he had in his tank and he had to pit. 3 laps later the rain came and the race ended. Newman finished 29th. Took a big chance and it didn’t work out. Despite that he only dropped 1 spot in the standings down to 7th. We’ll get them next time.

Now I’m about to head to my usual Monday night hang out spot, Jo Jo’s Tavern. I meet the guys there every week for food and drink and we hang out and celebrate out friendship. Pretty exciting. See you there!

Business Cards

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-06-24T19:39:03-04:00

I received my first batch of business cards today. They came out pretty nice. I designed them to reflect my website. You can’t tell from the picture below but the gray on the front is actually lines sort of like the gray lines on my site and the back is pattern of burgundy ‘dots’. They look better in person, let me know what you think, I think whenever I order my next batch I’ll make the pattern on the back of the card a bit more noticeable:

Curtin's Wharf

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-06-23T21:18:00-04:00

Tonight we went to Curtin’s Wharf for dinner and it was incredible! If you’re in the Burlington, NJ area you have to check this place out. The prices are a bit steep but it’s quality food, top notch service and an incredible ambience. Heck, you can take a boat there, as I was sitting on the back deck eating I was watching folks coming in from the river for dinner. There was a calypso band playing to add to the ambience. If it was a bit cheaper I would go all the time. The prices aren’t bad though considering how awesome everything is. I can hardly wait to go back. I strongly recommend it to everyone. Here’s a little picture I took from my cell phone (didn’t realize that I had the resolution set to LOW):

Art All Night

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-06-21T04:05:20-04:00

It’s 4 AM and I just got in from Art All Night. I know, it’s all night, I just couldn’t make it. I’ll be back around 12:30 PM for the rest of the 24 hour art “mini-festival”.

After I left the Hopkins BBQ the Murray brothers and I went to Art All Night in Trenton. We got there around 1:30 AM and there was a large amount of people, I was surprised. The band that was performing was good. The visual art left much to be desired but for the most part they were generally positive, some terrific ones and some downright awful ones. As the night progressed the bands got worse and worse. The last performance was 3 AM. Art All Night is a 24 hour art festival, it started at 3 PM on Saturday and goes to 3 PM on Sunday. Here’s their website: http://www.artworkstrenton.org/artallnight/index.html

I recommend. It’s not NEARLY as cool as the art festival they have down by my school in Baltimore but it’s ok for Trenton. The Baltimore one is called Artscape and is the largest arts festival in the country. Figure the Trenton one draws in close to 5,000 folks, Artscape draws in about 1 million. But hey, it’s a start. So I recommend you check it out, like I said, I’ll be there at about 12:30 on Sunday. See you there!

Depeche Mode - "Peace"

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-06-09T15:08:11-04:00

The new Depeche Mode video for their single “Peace”

Depeche Mode - "Peace"

Duchess, Fine Clothier

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-06-01T15:51:41-04:00

Last night I drove up to NYC to the Veloce Club at 17 Cleveland Place. I met up with Seyta of Duchess. I was measured for a new suit and picked out fabric and designs. I turns out my left arm is a half in longer than my right. Ha. I’m very excited about this. I’ve been wanting a nice suit for a while so I’m getting one made for me. It’s going to be gorgeous. There were a lot of guys there in their own wares and they all look great. I hope to get another suit maybe later this year or early next year. Seyta was extremely helpful not to mention being a great designer too. I highly recommend Duchess!

Also yesterday Ryan Newman finished 8th which put him up 2 more spots in the standings up to 5th now! His teammate Tony Stewart finished 2nd which means he took over the points lead! Yay!

On Saturday we played our 11th annual softball game and bbq. I did fairly well, made a couple outs on well hit balls and I got on base only cause of my lighting speed. I played third base. Made a few good plays in the field including an unassisted double play.

Tonight I’ll be meeting the guys at Jo Jo’s Tavern. I’m looking forward to it. It’s been a good weekend.

Set for launch

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-05-21T20:45:22-04:00

The Rocketman is back on top as Ryan Newman secured his first pole position for Stewart-Haas Racing for Sunday’s Coca-Cola 600 at Lowe’s Motor Speedway. GO RYAN NEWMAN!!!!

Depeche Mode with Peter Bjorn and John

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-05-17T22:13:04-04:00

Ok, so I’ll be seeing Depeche Mode for the 14th time in August at the Borgata in the City of Atlantic. That’s pretty exciting right? But not since The The opened up for them back in ages ago that a band I like is the opener. Steffers just told me that Peter Bjorn and John are opening up for them! So awesome! I’m so excited!

That now pushes The The, Nitzer Ebb and Stabbing Westward down a notch for the best bands that I’ve seen open up for DM!

Fever Ray

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-05-15T20:35:42-04:00

I got tickets to see Fever Ray on Tuesday, September 29th at Webster Hall in NYC. I’m very excited, who’s going?

Favorite TV shows of the week: May 10th to May 16th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-05-17T20:25:22-04:00

1) My Name Is Earl - “Dodge’s Dad" +3
2) 24 - “Day 7: 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM” +3
3) 30 Rock - “Kidney Now!" +3
4) The Office - “Company Picnic" -3
5) Fringe - “There's More Than One of Everything" -2
6) Breaking Bad - “Over” -4
7) House - “Both Sides Now" +1
8) Family Guy - “Three Kings” -1
9) Lost - “The Incident" No Change
10) Parks and Recreation - “Rock Show" +1
11) Sit Down, Shut Up - “Back In Time" No Change
12) American Dad - “Daddy Queerest" No Change
13) King of the Hill - “Manger Baby Einstein” No Change
14) The Simpsons - “Four Great Women and a Manicure” No Change

Favorite TV shows of the week: May 3rd to May 9th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-05-11T23:59:14-04:00

1) The Office - “Cafe Disco" +3
2) Breaking Bad - “4 Days Out” No Change
3) Fringe - “The Road Not Taken" +2
4) My Name Is Earl - “Inside Probe, Part 2" -3
5) 24 - “Day 7: 4:00 AM to 5:00 AM” -2
6) 30 Rock - “Mamma Mia" No Change
7) Family Guy - “We Love You Conrad” No Change
8) House - “Under My Skin" +1
9) Lost - “Follow the Leader" -1
10) Scrubs - “My Finale" Not Aired
11) Dollhouse - “Omega" No Change
12) Better Off Ted - “Get Happy" Not Aired
13) Parks and Recreation - “The Banquet" -3
14) Scrubs - “My Chief Concern" Not Aired
15) Sit Down, Shut Up - “World’s Greatest Teacher" -2
16) American Dad - “Weiner of Our Discontent" -2
17) King of the Hill - “Bad News Bill” +1
18) The Simpsons - “Waverly Hills, 9021-D'oh!” -1

SNL Digital Short: Motherlover

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-05-10T16:19:34-04:00

Whatever Works

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-05-08T17:31:08-04:00

The NEW Woody Allen films stars Larry David! Sweet!

An eccentric New Yorker played by Larry David abandons his upper class life to lead a more bohemian existence. He meets a young girl from the south and her family and no two people seem to get along in the entanglements that follow. This is a comedy also starring Ed Begley Jr., Patricia Clarkson, Conleth Hill, Michael McKean, Evan Rachel Wood, and a number of other amusing types.

Directed by: Woody Allen

Starring: Larry David, Ed Begley Jr., Patricia Clarkson, Conleth Hill, Michael McKean, Evan Rachel Wood

More Waltrip on Earl

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-05-07T20:04:20-04:00

They showed recaps of My Name Is Earl with Michael Waltrip again, the one with the missing person investigation, along with this added bit “Michael Waltrip’s testimony is equal to 3 regular peoples”. Ha!

Favorite TV shows of the week: April 26th to May 2nd

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-05-04T21:01:55-04:00

1) My Name Is Earl - “Inside Probe" +4
2) Breaking Bad - “Better Call Saul” No Change
3) 24 - “Day 7: 3:00 AM to 4:00 AM” -2
4) The Office - “Casual Friday" -1
5) Fringe - “Midnight" +1
6) 30 Rock - “The Natural Order" -2
7) Family Guy - “Stew-Roids” +1
8) Lost - “The Variable" Not Aired
9) House - “House Divided" Not Aired
10) Parks and Recreation - “Boy’s Club" -3
11) Dollhouse - “Haunted" -1
12) Heroes - “An Invisible Thread” -1
13) Sit Down, Shut Up - “Miracle’s Are Real" +1
14) American Dad - “Every Which Way but Lose" -1
15) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the Ring” No Change
16) The Simpsons - “Father Knows Worst” No Change
17) King of the Hill - “Serves Me Right For Giving General George S. Patton The Bathroom Key ” Not Aired

John Beck just signed with the Baltimore Ravens

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-05-04T17:01:29-04:00

I’m a big Baltimore Ravens fan so it’s only fitting that I (John Beck) just signed a 1 year deal with them. I’m very excited. I’m totally gonna show up to the voluntary workout!

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/football/bal-ravenshort504,0,1974368.story

and here:

http://www.baltimoreravens.com/News/Articles/2009/05/Beck_Now_A_Raven.aspx

Michael Waltrip in My Name Is Earl

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-04-30T20:27:47-04:00

Ha, Michael Waltrip was in tonight’s episode of My Name Is Earl “Inside Probe”. The episode stars Geraldo Rivera as a journalist trying to find out what happened to the Crab Shack’s owner. Earl and Randy were accused to murdering him. The evidence was strongly against them but their alibi was that they were hanging out with Michael Waltrip. Michael Waltrip bought them drinks and even had pictures with them to prove they didn’t do it. Also, they got so drunk that Michael Waltrip “2 time Daytona 500 champion gave them a ride home”.

Favorite TV shows of the week: April 19th to April 25th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-04-28T16:47:51-04:00

A little late this week....

1) 24 - “Day 7: 2:00 AM to 3:00 AM” No Change
2) Breaking Bad - “Negro Y Azul” +2
3) The Office - “Broke" -1
4) 30 Rock - “The Ones" +2
5) My Name Is Earl - “Gospel" No Change
6) Fringe - “Bad Dreams" -3
7) Parks and Recreation - “Canvassing" +1
8) Family Guy - “Episode 420” Not Aired
9) South Park - “Fatbeard" +4
10) Dollhouse - “Haunted" Not Aired
11) Heroes - “I Am Sylar” +1
12) Better Off Ted - “Goodbye, Mr. Chips” -3
13) American Dad - “Delorean Story-An" Not Aired
14) Sit Down, Shut Up - “Pilot" New
15) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the Colonel” -5
16) Scrubs - “My Cuz” No Change
17) The Simpsons - “The Good, the Sad and the Drugly” Not Aired

Depeche Mode on Kimmel, the day after UPDATE

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-04-24T13:34:09-04:00

The reviews are pouring in from Depeche Mode’s appearance on Jimmy Kimmel last night.

NEW: Here’s another review: http://www.accesshollywood.com/on-the-download-jimmy-kimmel-presents-depeche-mode-live_article_17182

http://www.rollingstone.com/rockdaily/index.php/2009/04/24/depeche-mode-shut-down-hollywood-blvd-for-kimmel/

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2009/04/depeche-mode-hollywood-swinging-.html

Here’s a clip of the first song they did, “Wrong” on Kimmel:

And here’s the second one, “Personal Jesus”, both are available in HD!

Depeche Mode on Kimmel TONIGHT!

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-04-23T17:28:11-04:00

Depche Mode are going to be on Jimmy Kimmel Live tonight so be sure to watch it.

Kimmel goes on at midnight, I’m gonna try my best to stay up. I don’t have to work tomorrow so hopefully staying up that late won’t mess me up too bad. Times like this I wish I had a DVR so I can watch it over and over and over.

Sounds of the Universe

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-04-22T15:44:49-04:00

I got my Depeche Mode “Sounds of the Universe” limited edition box set yesterday. The set itself is a lot nicer than I thought it would be. It’s also a lot bigger than I thought it would be. Very nicely made and put together too. I like the new album so far, not as good as their last one but it’s good, I mean, c’mon, it’s Depeche Mode.

R.I.P. Alfred Guarnieri

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-04-21T22:07:33-04:00

My Uncle Al died on Sunday. Bummer.

Alfred Guarnieri

Alfred Guarnieri, 89, of Hamilton Township died Sunday, April 19, 2009, at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital at Hamilton, Hamilton Township.

Born in Trenton, NJ, he resided in Hamilton Township for the past 45 years. Mr. Guarnieri was a US Army veteran of World War II. He retired in 1982 after more than 25 years from CV Hill Refrigeration, Trenton. Mr. Guarnieri along with his late wife, Josephine, owned and operated the Cameo Shop, located in the Chambersburg section of Trenton for 12 years until 1974. He was a member of the Roman Hall Society and was Past Commander and member of the Italian American War Veterans Post # 2.

Son of the late Dominic and Catherina Tazza Guarnieri, husband of the late Josephine Reno Guarnieri, brother of the late Jennie Iezzo, he is survived by two sons and a daughter-in-law, Alan R. and Denise Guarnieri of Bordentown Township, and David Guarnieri of Hamilton Township; two sisters, Mary Gallo and Clara Guarnieri, both of Hamilton Township; a sister-in-law, Sue Aregnano; two grandchildren, Alexa and Lucas Guarnieri, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The funeral will be 7:30 a.m. Thursday, April 23, 2009, from the Brenna Funeral Home, 340 Hamilton Ave., Trenton. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9 a.m. at Saint Mary's Church, 45 Crosswicks Street, Bordentown, NJ. Burial will follow in Brig. General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, North Hanover Township, NJ. Calling hours for relatives and friends will be on Wednesday evening, April 22, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Brenna Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to Veterans of Foreign Wars, National Headquarters, 406 West 34th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111. (816-756-3390) or www.vfw.org

Favorite TV shows of the week: April 1th to April 18th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-04-20T18:24:08-04:00

1) 24 - “Day 7: 1:00 AM to 2:00 AM” +1
2) The Office - “Heavy Competition” +4
3) Fringe - “Unleashed” -2
4) Breaking Bad - “Peekabo” No Change
5) My Name Is Earl - “Bullies" Not Aired
6) 30 Rock - “Jackie Jormp-Jomp” -1
7) Lost - “Some Like it Hoth” +1
8) Parks and Recreation - “Reporter” +1
9) Better Off Ted - “Win Some, Dose Some” -5
10) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the First Kill” No Change
12) House - “Saviors” +2
12) Heroes - “1961” -2
13) South Park - “Pinewood Derby” -1
14) Scrubs - “My Soul on Fire, Part 2” No Change

R.I.P. JG Ballard

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-04-19T19:26:33-04:00

JG Ballard died this morning.

In other news, I was in Baltimore this past weekend for the annual MICA fashion show. Went with the Murray brothers. Met up with some friends. Went to Mick O’Shea’s. Also picked up some Resurrection and Green Peppercorn Tripel from the Brewer’s Art. Great place, great beers. I’m very tired now and wish to rest. New show goes on FOX tonight called Sit Down, Shut Up made by the creator of Arrested Development. May as well watch it, what else is there to watch?

Favorite TV shows of the week: April 5th to April 11th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-04-13T15:29:08-04:00

1) Fringe - “Inner Child” Not Aired
2) 24 - “Day 7: 12:00 AM to 1:00 AM” -1
3) Better Off Ted - “Racial Sensitivity” +5
4) Breaking Bad - “Breakage” -2
5) 30 Rock - “Cutbacks” Not Aired
6) The Office - “The Michael Scott Paper Company” Not Aired
7) The Office - “Dream Team” Not Aired
8) Lost - “Dead is Dead” -1
9) Dollhouse - “A Spy in the House of Love" -5
10) Parks and Recreation - “Make My Pit a Park” New
11) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the Dream Job” +3
12) Heroes - “Turn and Face the Strange” -1
13) Rescue Me - “Baptism” New
14) South Park - “Fishsticks" -5
15) House - “Simple Explanation” -8
16) Scrubs - “My Soul on Fire, Part 1” -1
17) The Simpsons - “Eeny Teeny Maya, Moe” No Change

LoveNetflix

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-04-10T20:45:11-04:00

LoveNetflix is a dating site that takes your rental and rating history and matches it up with other people who rated those movies similarly. Worth a shot.

That Woman Makes Crazy Art

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-04-07T15:21:43-04:00

Over the weekend I went to Easton, PA. I’ve never been to Easton before, neat town, just takes a while to get there. I’d like to check it out again when it gets warmer. I went there because my friend Rachel from MICA had an art exhibit opening. She makes some really wild art. Please visit her website: http://thatwomanmakescrazyart.com/.

Favorite TV shows of the week: March 29th to April 4th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-04-07T15:14:53-04:00

A little late this week....

1) 24 - “Day 7: 11:00 PM to 12:00 AM” No Change
2) Breaking Bad - “Down” No Change
3) House - “Locked In” Not Aired
4) Dollhouse - “Needs" No Change
5) Family Guy - “Not All Dogs Go to Heaven” +1
6) South Park - “Eat, Pray, Queef" -1
7) Lost - “Whatever Happened, Happened” No Change
8) Better Off Ted - “Through Rose Colored HAZMAT Suits” No Change
9) Heroes - “Into Asylum” No Change
10) Scrubs - “My Full Moon” No Change
11) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the Broken Heart” No Change
12) American Dad - “Wife Insurance" No Change
13) The Simpsons - “Wedding for Disaster” No Change

SNL Digital Short: Like a Boss

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-04-05T09:49:31-04:00

Be my #1 fan!

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-04-02T16:56:02-04:00

If you have a Facebook account then go here and be my #1 fan!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/John-Beck/77604048293

Favorite TV shows of the week: March 22nd to March 28th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-03-29T19:49:20-04:00

1) 24 - “Day 7: 10:00PM to 11:00PM” +2
2) Breaking Bad - “Bit by a Dead Bee” No Change
3) Flight of the Conchords - “Evicted” +2
4) 30 Rock - “Apollo, Apollo” +2
5) The Office - “Two Weeks” +2
6) Dollhouse - “Echoes" -2
7) South Park - “Margaritaville" +7
8) Family Guy - “FOX-y Lady” +5
9) Lost - “He’s Our You” -1
10) My Name Is Earl - “Pinky” -1
11) Better Off Ted - “Heroes” No Change
12) Heroes - “Cold Snap” Not Aired
13) Scrubs - “Their Story II” -1
14) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the Predator” Not Aired
15) American Dad - “Bar Mitzvah Shuffle" No Change
16) King of the Hill - “Nancy Does Dallas" No Change
17) The Simpsons - “In the Name of the Grandfather” No Change

Brother Theodore - Food Sermon

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-03-28T20:56:57-04:00

This is one of the most amazing performances that I’ve ever seen. I’ve seen his monologues before but this is incredible. I really wish that they let him finish. Incredible!

Depeche Mode "Come Back"

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-03-23T13:45:55-04:00

New Depeche Mode song from their forthcoming album “Sounds of the Universe”

Favorite TV shows of the week: March 15th to March 21st

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-03-22T13:00:36-04:00

1) Battlestar Galactica - “Daybreak, Part 2” +4
2) Breaking Bad - “Grilled” +4
3) 24 - “Day 7: 9:00PM to 10:00PM” -2
4) Dollhouse - “Man on the Street" +3
5) Flight of the Conchords - “Wingmen” -1
6) 30 Rock - “The Bubble” -3
7) The Office - “New Boss” -5
8) Lost - “Namaste” Not Aired
9) My Name Is Earl - “Witch Lady” Not Aired
10) Kings- “Goliath” New
11) Better Off Ted - “Pilot” New
12) Scrubs - “My Nah Nah Nah” Not Aired
13) Family Guy - “The Juice Is Loose” -5
14) South Park - “The Coon" -5
15) House - “Here Kitty” -2
16) American Dad - “Jack’s Back" No Change
17) King of the Hill - “Uncool Customer" No Change
18) The Simpsons - “Gone Maggie Gone” No Change

March 16th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-03-16T12:20:13-04:00

I signed up for Twitter last night and already I’m addicted. You can follow me @beckinabox. I’ve installed Twitter apps on my computer and on my phone. I also added a little widget in the side bar to the right.

Last week a couple of customers of mine went out to Las Vegas for the NASCAR race. They brought me back a new Ryan Newman decal for my car. As you know he switched from the #12 team to the #39 team. I took out the old #12 and put on the new #39. Thank you Holly!!!!

Also, I just replaced it with a shiny brand new 120GB iPod classic. It’s absolutely incredible and so much smaller than the old one. Not am I able to put almost my whole collection of iTunes on it but it also plays podcasts and video! It’s so sweet. This is my third iPod. The last one was a 60GB iPod Photo. It still works, i’ve just been having problems with it lately. It freezes often. My first iPod was a 10GB first generation. I had that one back when iPod’s were only available for Mac. Now they’re everywhere. This new one is my favorite one so far. It’s so sweet.

Favorite TV shows of the week: March 8th to March 14th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-03-16T12:05:20-04:00

1) 24 - “Day 7: 8:00PM to 9:00PM” No Change
2) The Office - “Golden Ticket” +2
3) 30 Rock - “The Funcooker” +2
4) Flight of the Conchords - “New Zealand Town” -1
5) Battlestar Galactica - “Daybreak, Part 1” +1
6) Breaking Bad - “Seven Thirty-Seven” New
7) Dollhouse - “True Believer" No Change
8) Family Guy - “Family Gay” Not Aired
9) South Park - “The Ring" New
10) Heroes - “Shades of Gray” -1
11) Kath and Kim - “Home” -1
12) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the Lethal Weapon” No Change
13) House - “The Social Contract” Not Aired
14) American Dad - “Roy Rogers McFreely" No Change
15) King of the Hill - “Bwah, My Nose" No Change
16) The Simpsons - “No Loan Again, Naturally” No Change

SNL Digital Short: Party Guys

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-03-15T10:27:16-04:00

Favorite TV shows of the week: March 1st to March 7th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-03-08T10:02:24-04:00

1) 24 - “Day 7: 7:00PM to 8:00PM” No Change
2) 24 - “Day 7: 6:00PM to 7:00PM” No Change
3) Flight of the Conchords - “Prime Minister” +1
4) The Office - “Blood Drive” Not Aired
5) 30 Rock - “Goodbye, My Friend” -2
6) Battlestar Galactica - “Islanded in a Stream of Stars” No Change
7) Dollhouse - “Grey Hour" +3
8) Lost - “LaFleur” -1
9) Heroes - “Exposed” -1
10) Kath and Kim - “Bachelorette” No Change
11) My Name Is Earl - “Chaz Dalton’s Space Academy" Not Aired
12) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the Beefcake” -1
13) American Dad - “Live and Let Fry" Not Aired
14) King of the Hill - “Master of Puppets" Not Aired
15) The Simpsons - “Ho the Test Was Won” Not Aired

2 things...

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-03-06T07:58:00-05:00

2 weeks ago I got Rock Band for my PS2. I love it. At first I could barely pass songs using the bass on easy now I can pass songs on guitar on hard. I just wish that there were downloadable songs like their are for the PS3/360. Maybe someday in the future I’ll upgrade my system. Regardless I’m getting pretty good. My dad is even improving. Sometimes Jen and Chris and Joey and Ayla will rock out with me. It’s good fun.

Yesterday I bottled my wheat beer that I made. I bottled 32 25 ounce bottles. That’s a lot of beer. I calculated the alcohol content to be around 6.1%, that seems pretty high. The beer should be ready for consumption in a couple weeks so I’ll report back on how it is.

Daft Punk to score TR2N soundtrack

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-03-04T19:09:14-05:00

I’m very excited about this, Daft Punk are set to record the TR2N soundtrack. Billboard posted the newslink today. I saw the bootleg trailer for TR2N last year and it looked incredible so this just adds even more excitement to it.

Favorite TV shows of the week: February 22nd to February 28th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-03-01T17:24:54-05:00

1) 24 - “Day 7: 5:00PM to 6:00PM” No Change
2) 30 Rock - “Larry King” Not Aired
3) Flight of the Conchords - “Love Is a Weapon of Choice” -1
4) House - “The Softer Side” +7
5) Battlestar Galactica - “Someone to Watch Over Me” +1
6) Lost - “The Life and Death of Jeremy Bentham” +3
7) Heroes - “Cold Wars” -4
8) Kath and Kim - “Desire” No Change
9) Dollhouse - “Stage Fright" -5
10) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the Best Friend” No Change

Depeche Mode "Wrong"

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-28T05:53:30-05:00

Here’s the video for the new Depeche Mode single “Wrong”. This video is pretty creepy.

American Idol

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-25T20:41:03-05:00

I haven’t watched American Idol since it went live but I’m shocked that guy Nick Mitchell/Norman Gentle, whatever his name is, is still on American Idol. Incredible. I have no idea how he made it this far. He’s awful but he’s just so entertaining and funny and I’m totally going to vote for him and I hope he makes it to the finals. I wasn’t planning on voting at all this season but I will certainly be voting for him as soon as the lines open.

Die Die Die

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-24T22:43:03-05:00

At work today a three year old kid circled his table and repeatedly shouted “DIE! DIE! DIE!”, regardless, it was NOT the most interesting thing that happened today.

Favorite TV shows of the week: February 15th to February 21st

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-23T16:38:15-05:00

1) 24 - “Day 7: 4:00PM to 5:00PM” No Change
2) Flight of the Conchords - “Unnatural Love” +2
3) Heroes - “Building 26” +2
4) Dollhouse - “The Target" +6
5) Family Guy - “Ocean’s Three and a Half" New
6) Battlestar Galactica - “Deadlock” -4
7) My Name Is Earl - “My Name Is Alias” +2
8) Kath and Kim - “Competition” No Change
9) Lost - “316” +2
10) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the Suburbs” Not Aired
11) House - “Unfaithful” Not Aired
12) American Dad - “Family Affair” +3
13) The Simpsons - “Take My Life, Please” Not Aired
14) King of the Hill - “What Happens at the National Propane Convention in Memphis Stays at the National Propane Convention in Memphis” No Change

Favorite TV shows of the week: February 8th to February 14th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-16T11:35:59-05:00

1) 24 - “Day 7: 3:00PM to 4:00PM” +4
2) Battlestar Galactica - “No Exit” -1
3) Fringe - “Ability" +3
4) Flight of the Conchords - “Murray Takes It To The Next Level” -2
5) Heroes - “Trust and Blood” -1
6) 30 Rock - “St. Valentine’s Day" +2
7) The Office - “Lecture Circuit, Part 2" No Change
8) Kath and Kim - “Celebrity” +2
9) My Name Is Earl - “Friends With Benefits” +3
10) Dollhouse - “Ghost” New
11) Lost - “This Place Is Death” No Change
12) Scrubs - “My Comedy Show” +1
13) Scrubs - “My Abscence” +2
14) King of the Hill - “Lucky See, Monkey Do” New
15) American Dad - “Stan Time” Not Aired

SNL Digital Short: Property of the Queen

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-15T10:16:42-05:00

John Hodgman

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-13T23:03:30-05:00

John Hodgman played a doctor in tonight’s episode of Battlestar Galactica. As soon as I heard his voice I knew it was him, it was a very nice surprise. He’s awesome!

Dollhouse

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-13T17:29:24-05:00

Everyone, be sure to watch Dollhouse tonight on FOX at 9:00 EST!

NASCAR calendars

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-13T08:40:57-05:00

My NASCAR iCal calendars that I maintain, the ones listed in the File Sharing section, are now available on Apple.com. Yay! If you go to http://www.apple.com/downloads/macosx/calendars/ you can see and subscribe to my calendars from there! Pretty cool!

Inglourious Basterds

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-11T16:01:29-05:00

The trailer for the new Quentin Tarantino film starring Brad Pitt is now online. It looks pretty awesome. There’s not many films with Nazis in them that aren’t any good, throw in Quentin Tarantino and Brad Pitt we’ve got something special. I can hardly wait. Here’s the link to the trailer: http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1808404206/video/11988602/standardformat/

Tony Stewart Old Spice Swagger commercial

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-10T22:40:33-05:00

This commercial is so weird and so funny. I just love the sounds that young Tony Stewart is making. So funny.

Ryan Newman captures first modified win at New Smyrna

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-10T22:25:22-05:00

In only his second start in a touring series modified car, Ryan Newman drove to a thrilling victory at New Smyrna Speedway on Monday night.

Newman, who started seventh, piloted the No. 7 NY Aggressive Hydraulics modified through the field to claim his first win in a modified and a hard fought victory for car owner Kevin 'Bono' Manion.

"That was a lot of fun," Newman said. "I have to thank Ted (Christopher) because he raced me clean there at the end. It was a pretty exciting race from where I was sitting.

"To win this race is a big deal. I'm not a guy from the Northeast but I know how important of a win this is for these guys."

Newman quickly drove through the field and into second place where he engaged in a head-to-head battle with legendary modified driver Ted Christopher. The two drivers swapped the top spot numerous times over the final 14 laps of the 25-lap race.

Newman had to endure multiple caution flags and several restarts before taking the lead from Christopher on lap 21 for good to clench his first victory in the modified ranks.

"Tonight was my dad's birthday, so I think this is a nice present for him," Newman said. "I'm looking forward to racing and having some more fun here again tomorrow night."
Newman will race at New Smyrna again on Tuesday. Action begins at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Delaware Water Gap with Mike Murray

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-09T11:34:06-05:00

Yesterday was a beautiful day here in Trenton. The temperature reached 64! Mike Murray and I decided it would be a good day for a little road trip. As the previous week’s snow was melting a way we hit the road and drove up North to the Delaware Water Gap. The crumbling slums of Trenton were now behind us the glorious mountains were on the horizon. Along the hour and a half journey we discussed how awesome the state of New Jersey is. Moments ago we left the capital city and here we are in the rolling hills of Flemington, Clinton and Oxford. New Jersey has such a wide variety of resources in which all are relatively close to each other. We have big cities and small farming communities. Big sporting arenas and casinos to mountains and wildlife preserves. If for some reason New Jersey isn’t good enough, NYC and Philly are just a stone’s throw away, not to mention Baltimore/DC and Boston. We love this state!

Before we arrived at the Delaware Water Gap we stopped of at Hot Dog Johnny’s. A place I last frequented with Mike’s brother Jimmy nearly 4 years ago. It was delicious! The queue was out the door and flooded into the parking lot. After that we went further down the road into the Delaware Water Gap. We were very unprepared for this trip. Even though it was 64 and the snow was melting in Trenton, in the DQG there was still a foot of snow on the ground and it was damn cold. We braved the freezing temperatures and journey to the summit toward Crater Lake and were able to catch a few decent pictures, some of them are displayed on the right, others are up on Facebook. Regardless we had a great time, even saw some of our customers up by the river. Next time we visit will be this summer and we will hike up Kittatinny Point. This time we will be prepared.

Favorite TV shows of the week: February 1st to February 7th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-09T10:36:40-05:00

1) Battlestar Galactica - “Blood on the Scales” No Change
2) Flight of the Conchords - “The Tough Brets” +2
3) The Office - “Stress Relief” Not Aired
4) Heroes - “A Clear and Present Danger” New
5) 24 - “Day 7: 2:00PM to 3:00PM” No Change
6) Fringe - “The Transformation" -3
7) The Office - “Lecture Circuit" Not Aired
8) 30 Rock - “Generallissimo" Not Aired
9) House - “The Greater Good” -3
10) Kath and Kim - “Idols” Not Aired
11) Lost - “The Little Prince” -9
12) My Name Is Earl - “Randy’s List Item” Not Aired
13) Scrubs - “My Lawyer’s In Love” -6
14) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the Third Dimension” Not Aired
15) Scrubs - “My New Role” -7

SNL Digital Short: I'm On A Boat

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-09T08:04:56-05:00

Top 25 Random Facts

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-07T20:37:31-05:00

There’s this thing going around on Facebook where people post their top 25 random things about themselves. I personally didn’t post one but my sister posted one and I found it absolutely hilarious and decided to post it here on my blog. I hope you all find it as funny as I do:

1. I have had 4 surgeries in the past 4 years.

2. Would love to open up my own school for students with disabilities.

3. Would love to pick up everything and move to Taromino, Sicily.

4. I do about 97% of all yard work.

5. I do about 95% of all house work.

6. I would like to have another boxer puppy.

7. I am the most happy when I'm with my son.

8. I would love to mingle with gorillas. Just call me Dian Fossey.

9. I would love to open up a restaurant or a bagel place.

10. I don't know how to make bagels.

11. I can never write anything without Chris proofreading it first.

12. Chris proofread this.

13. I'm obsessed with organization and have been wanting to go to the container store FOREVER!

14. Hopefully for Valentines Day, Chris will bring me to the container store.

15. I'm supposively passive-aggressive. I don't know about that, what do you think?

16. I'm self-conscious about several things. So much so that I can't share them with you.

17. I hate the gladiator game. Chris, Dan....dorks!

18. During early high school years I attended a modeling school.

19. I have huge feet, size 11. HUGE!

20. I like to steal swords and gold.

21. I can watch a movie, people die, I don't cry. If an animal dies, I will cry for an hour.

22. I used to go to Karate class and loved it, but it killed my back.

23. I hit a tracter trailer on the turnpike after spinning 4x in a snow storm. Car = Totaled.

24. I am a certified therapy dog carrier and have taken Sebastian to a lock-down school, retirement home, hospital, and a school for children with cerebral palsy.

25. In my adulthood, I have only pooped twice in a public place.

The Sounds of the Universe

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-01-16T19:31:38-05:00

DEPECHE MODE
ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF
SOUNDS OF THE UNIVERSE
APRIL 21, 2009

January 15, 2009- Groundbreaking, chart-topping electro legends Depeche Mode are proud to announce the release of their long-anticipated new studio album, Sounds Of The Universe on April 21, 2009 (Mute Records).

Eclectic and energized, the band's new release is their most dazzling and diverse album in decades. Recorded in Santa Barbara and New York, Depeche Mode returned to using a lot of vintage gear, from analogue synthesizers to drum machines, in order to conjure up the retro-futuristic arrangements featured on the album. Lyrically the release contains many of the group's enduring obsessions plus more overt black humor than any of their previous collections.

Like with their 2005 studio album, Playing The Angel, Sounds Of The Universe features writing credits for both Martin Gore, the group's primary songwriter, and Dave Gahan who after honing his talents on two solo albums, has earned his place as Depeche Mode's second writer. The release also marks a reunion between the band and producer Ben Hillier (Blur, Doves, Elbow), who worked with the band to help give their new album its timeless sound. The first single from the release, "Wrong," grabs the listener's attention from its first stack-heeled, staccato shriek. Over stomping beats, screeching synthesizers, and Dave's overlord chant, "Wrong" already feels like a Depeche Mode classic. Other standout tracks include Martin's velvet-lined Scott Walker croon on the sensual lounge-music ballad "Jezebel," to the sci-fi gospel-blues hymn "In Chains" and "Hole To Feed," which marries modern electronics to a floor-shaking, bone-rattling Bo Diddley beat.

As one of the most influential bands of the post-punk era, with global sales in excess of 100 million, Depeche Mode belongs to a select premiere league of super groups who have survived from the early 1980s with their ideals, creative vision and core members intact. Formed in 1981, Depeche Mode - Martin Gore, Dave Gahan and Andy 'Fletch' Fletcher - continue to win critical and commercial acclaim across the world both in the studio and on the road. All of the band's 11 studio albums have reached the Top Ten in not only the UK and USA but 20 plus countries around the world including Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, and Belgium. Additionally, since their inception Depeche Mode's live shows continue to be a must-see attraction, with the group playing to 2.8 million people across 31 countries on their last tour alone.

Depeche Mode will be announcing additional album details and tour news in the coming weeks. For more information please go to www.depechemode.com.

Ryan Newman fan club package

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-06T20:05:35-05:00

My Ryan Newman fan club package arrived today. Over the years I’ve gotten many little goodies from the fan club, autographed pictures, magnets, license plate frames and other little goodies, besides the yearly fan club t-shirt and membership card. This year they really outdid themselves.

The fan club package arrived today, a lot of odd things were included this year. Everything was packed neatly in a Ryan Newman fan club cooler. I got the usual fan club t-shirt, this years was a nice black one, the others were ugly white ones. I also got the usual fan club membership card and cool little fan club magnet. Ok, pretty cool so far. Also inside were 2 more t-shirts, a sweet U.S. Army shirt AND a very cool Meaty Bone t-shirt. Isn’t that odd? Both shirts are really awesome, much cooler than the actual fan club shirt.

Also included in the cooler is a blank CDR (a yellow one), a fishing lure with Ryan Newman’s autograph on it, a bag of rubber bait worms, a small stick of Old Spice (his teammate Tony Stewart’s sponsor) and a small package that looks like matches from Duraflame but it’s actually green tea stress relief lotion.

Isn’t that awesome? That was a really nice surprise to come home too. Thank you Ryan Newman for being awesome! Oh, and Ryan Newman, i’m from your wife’s home town, if you ever come and visit let me take you out for dinner! Sweet!

NASCAR calendars updated

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-03T21:06:56-05:00

NASCAR finally updated the official schedule on their site. I’ve updated my subscription calendars to match that schedule. You can subscribe to all 3 top NASCAR calendars in the File Sharing section.

Favorite TV shows of the week: January 25th to January 31st

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-01T13:33:09-05:00

1) Battlestar Galactica - “The Oath” +5
2) Lost - “Jughead” +8
3) Fringe - “The No-Brainer" -2
4) Flight of the Conchords - “New Cup” -2
5) 24 - “Day 7: 1:00PM to 2:00PM” -1
6) House - “Big Baby” +3
7) Scrubs - “My ABC’s” Not Aired
8) Scrubs - “My Cookie Pants” Not Aired
9) American Dad - “Chimdale” New
10) The Simpsons - “Lisa the Drama Queen” New

SNL Digital Short: Lazer Cats 4

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-02-01T13:32:23-05:00

Favorite TV shows of the week: January 18th to January 24th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-01-25T08:30:54-05:00

1) Fringe - “Bound” New
2) Flight of the Conchords - “A Good Opportunity” New
3) 30 Rock - “Retreat to Move Forward" +2
4) 24 - “Day 7: 12:00PM to 1:00PM” -2
5) The Office - “Prince Family Paper” -2
6) Battlestar Galactica - “A Disquiet Follows My Soul” No Change
7) My Name Is Earl - “Darnell Outed, Part 2” -3
8) Kath and Kim - “News” New
9) House - “Painless” New
10) Lost - “Because You Left/The Lie” New

SNL Digital Short: A Couple of Homies

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-01-19T09:13:34-05:00

SNL Digital Short: Doogie Howser Theme

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-01-19T09:09:14-05:00

Favorite TV shows of the week: January 11th to January 17th

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-01-19T08:27:25-05:00

For all the newbies, every week I put a list up of my favorite TV shows that I watch in order from my favorite to my least favorite. I leave out daily/variety shows. New shows have been airing for the past couple weeks but I only put up the list when I watch more than 5 new shows. Here’s this past week’s favorite TV shows.

1) 24 - “Day 7: 10:00AM to 12:00PM” New
2) 24 - “Day 7: 8:00AM to 10:00AM” New
3) The Office - “Duel” New
4) My Name Is Earl - “Darnell Outed” New
5) 30 Rock - “Flu Shot" New
6) Battlestar Galactica - “Sometimes a Great Notion” New
7) Scrubs - “My Saving Grace” New
8) Scrubs - “My Happy Place” New

Good Luck Steelers!

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-01-18T22:58:25-05:00

Ravens lost a tough game. Steelers were spectacular. Joe Flacco made some dumb moves, 3 interceptions. He threw some great balls but he also showed why rookie quarterbacks never win playoff games. I knew the Steelers were going to win before the game even started but when the Ravens started coming back and it was 16 - 14 in the 4th quarter I really felt the Ravens were going to win. They started off with great field position and then this stupid penalty came against the Ravens for unnecessary roughness. The penalty ended up putting the Ravens down at the 14 yard line, which was at the time of the kick around 40 something. Flacco made a couple of big passes but eventually got intercepted and was returned for a touchdown. It was that penalty that turned the game around. On the other hand, I feel pretty confident in saying that the Steelers are going to win the super bowl. So the Ravens may have lost but they lost to the next world champions.

I have a feeling Flacco learned a lot this season as a rookie. No rookie has ever made it this far into the post season and I have a feeling that next year he’ll be a lot better. Now that the Ravens are over I have NASCAR to get excited about now. A few more weeks and the green flag will be waving. Also, luckily for me, new episodes of my favorite TV shows have been airing. I’ll start posting my top shows list soon.

GO RAVENS!!!!!

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-01-10T19:43:08-05:00

Ravens just beat the #1 seed Titans. It was a helluva game. A real nail biter.

Absolutely incredible!!!

Beautiful photography

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-01-09T15:51:11-05:00

I think these photographs are just beautiful.

http://helmo.fr/projects/said/2/

I find something about that composition with the blue and red on the black background incredibly gorgeous. Such a great idea and well executed. Stunning imagery.

Absinthe Lollipops

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-01-07T15:32:23-05:00

http://www.lollyphile.com/absinthe.php

Whoa. I kinda lost interest in absinthe years ago but I would certainly love to try one or two of these.

Happy Birthday Jimmy!

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-01-05T20:13:36-05:00

I’ve been sick since Saturday. I don’t feel sick until I start eating. It’s no fun. My friend Jen spent the night with me last night. I felt bad cause I wasn’t much fun. Tonight is usually my meeting with the guys at Jo Jo’s Tavern but after I had dinner earlier I just haven’t been feeling well. I’m mostly bummed out about the whole thing. Especially considering that today is Jimmy’s birthday. Sorry I couldn’t be there my good brother. Happy birthday Jimmy!

Joe Flacco is my hero!

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-01-04T19:19:52-05:00

Joe Flacco became the first rookie quarterback to win a playoff game on the road and only the third rookie quarterback to win a playoff game of all time! The Ravens play the Titans in Tennessee on Saturday. The Ravens have been on fire lately and the Titans are flickering out, regardless, it should be a close game and can go either way. GO RAVENS!!!

Happy New Year!

jbeck@mac.com — 2009-01-01T20:37:21-05:00

Happy new year everyone. Last night I went to a party at the DeNito’s. Every party I go to at their place is a lot of fun. They continue to outdue themselves with their incredible hospitality. They’re terrific hosts and I can hardly wait till the next get together. Great job!

Get in that boiler room!

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-29T22:23:37-05:00

Today was a busy day. This morning and part of the afternoon I visited my grandmother in the assisted living place she’s at in Princeton. I haven’t visited her in a while. The place is really nice and they do a great job there. I ate lunch there too.

Later during the day I met up with my buddy James from MICA. He was visiting NJ from the west coast. Earlier that day he had a meeting with Lord Whimsy. Apparently they’re going to be working on a project together. James is a little nutty, he gets a coat as a Christmas gift from Debbie Harry and now he thinks that he can work with everyone that is famous.

Anyway, when he got to my house I asked him where he wanted to go to eat. He said he wanted DeLorenzo’s, unfortunately we’re closed on Mondays so I had to take him to the enemy, the DeLorenzo’s in Robbinsville. It was pretty good I must admit. The service sucks though. So James and I stopped at Canal’s and then met up with Jimmy Murray at DeLorenzo’s.

Afterwards James left to go back to Long Branch cause he was leaving for the west coast in the morning and Jimmy and I headed to our usual Monday night gathering spot, Jo Jo’s Tavern.

Now I am full with pizza, beer, dessert and coffee. Now I must rest. Happy new year!

Go Ravens!

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-28T23:29:06-05:00

Go Ravens!

Ravens won over the Jaguars today. Playoffs start next week against the Dolphins. The Ravens are looking real good. Anything could happen!

WWE

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-27T16:47:54-05:00

Little Rick got Mike Murray and I tickets for tonight’s WWE RAW at the Trenton Arena. Last time Rick got Jimmy Murray and me tickets for the 80’s night concert festival. The arena is 5 minutes away so if it’s free I’ll pretty much go see anything. I just found out today that it’s not WWF anymore. I haven’t followed wrestling in a long time. I guess it’s because I’m not 10 anymore. Regardless, it’s free and 5 minutes away so I’m sure it will be fun. Plus we’re in a special suite! SWEET!

Christmas Gifts

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-25T00:27:34-05:00

What does an eccentric artist get/make for his family as a Christmas gift?

Sardines!

Each card is a hand drawn pencil sketch of 3 sardines. Each card is slightly different. The cover of each card reads “Merry Christmas”. Inside each card reads “Live Long and Prosper”. On the opposite inner page reads “Christmas 2008, hand drawn by John Beck, x of 9”

Each tin of sardines is lovingly wrapped in Maker’s Mark wrapping paper.

Merry Christmas!

It's Lunch Time

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-22T13:40:00-05:00

I just made myself a pork roll and cheese sandwich. Of course I used Case’s pork roll, cause that’s the best. It was delicious. I know you wish you had some too.

Cosmi's Pastries and Potito's Bakery

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-18T22:42:32-05:00

After work today Big Rick and I went down to Philly. He ordered 20 boxes of honey balls from Cosmi’s Pastries. He had, earlier in the week, got boxes of honey balls from Nino’s Pastry Shop, which is usually pretty damn good. The honey balls were made all wrong at Nino’s and he went to complain, this is after he gave most of the boxes away as gifts.

So I accompanied him down to Philly. We had a lot of fun. He’s been ordering from Cosmi’s for a while now and said he should have gone there first instead of Nino’s. He gave me another box of the honey balls and these were a HUGE difference. Very good. Then he took me to another bakery not too far away called Potito’s. There he got me a tray of cookies for coming down to Philly with him. He met the owner of Potito’s a few years ago at Jefferson hospital. They ended up befriending each other. Rick often visited his shop when he was in town. A couple years later the owner died from leukemia at a relatively young age. Anyway, when we got to Potito’s the daughter remembered Rick, even some details, from Trenton, owns the pizza place. I guess he’s a hard one to forget. It was a very sweet moment.

Now I must get back to drawing my Christmas cards and back to watching Battlestar Galactica.

NASCAR Camping World truck series calendar

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-16T17:06:26-05:00

I received an email asking about my NASCAR calendars. Apparently I make the only 2009 and beyond NASCAR calendar subscriptions. I was asked if I could also make one for the Camping World (formerly Craftsman) truck series calendar. I honored the request and the Camping World series as well as the Sprint Cup and Nationwide series calendars can be subscribed to in the ‘File Sharing’ section. You will need Apple iCal program or something similar that will allow the subscription of these types of calendars.

SNL Digital Short: Cookies

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-14T08:51:28-05:00

My Horn Can Pierce The Sky

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-12T17:33:08-05:00

Princess Unicorn: http://www.princessunicorndoll.com/

Princess Unicorn is from a distant land on a distant planet far away in the future. She came from her father, king of the unicorns, and her mother, queen of the princesses. Sorcerissa, the evil witch, cast a spell on Princess Unicorn’s parents, forcing them into another dimension, and doused Princess Unicorn in radiation. The radiation did not hurt Princess Unicorn, but gave her magical powers. She can summon her magic by holding her wand and calling out, “My horn can pierce the sky!” Now she uses her magic and beauty to write for her school paper, defend her kingdom, and battle Sorcerissa so she can be reunited with her mother and father some day.

R.I.P. Bettie Page

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-12T08:52:54-05:00

Bettie Page dies at 85; pinup queen played a key role in the sexual revolution of the 1960s and later became a cult figure.

http://www.latimes.com/news/obituaries/la-me-page12-2008dec12,0,5310709.story

Maker's Mark Gift

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-11T15:21:30-05:00

Every year Maker’s Mark sends me a unique gift around the holidays.This year they sent me Maker’s Mark wrapping paper along with Maker’s Mark gift tags and Maker’s Mark ribbon. Thank you Maker’s Mark for the gift and thank you for making such great tasting bourbon!

Favorite TV shows of the week: December 7th to December 13th

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-13T22:18:03-05:00

1) Boston Legal - “Made In China/Last Call” +2
2) Dexter - “I Had A Dream” -1
3) The Office - “Moroccan Christmas” -1
4) My Name Is Earl - “Orphan Earl” +2
5) 30 Rock - “Christmas Special" -1
6) Kath and Kim - “Friends” +2
7) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the DeLorean” +2
8) Pushing Daisies - “The Legend of Merle McQuoddy” -1
9) Eli Stone - “Help!” +3
10) House - “Joy to the World” No Change
11) Heroes - “Our Father” No Change
12) The Simpsons - “The Burns and the Bees” No Change
13) Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles - “Alpine Fields” No Change

Canal's

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-10T15:56:42-05:00

I just got back from the liquor store. I purchased a bottle of Ciroc vodka. I use that for my delicious martinis. Other than that I got all ‘wintry’ beers, stouts. Samuel Adams Cream Stout, Samuel Smiths Oatmeal Stout and Young’s Double Chocolate Stout. For some reason stouts remind me of winter. Delicious.

NetFlix Customer Service

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-09T20:33:22-05:00

2 weeks ago I added the Battlestar Galactica Season 3 six disc set to the top of my NetFlix queue. It was in order from disc 1 to disc 6. They sent disc 4 first. That’s no good, especially considering I’m on the 1 DVD out at a time plan, so I filed a complaint and sent it back and they sent me disc 1 right away. I had sent that back and then they sent me disc 3. What’s wrong with them?

So this time I called them up after a wait of 20 seconds I was patched through to Sara at NetFlix customer service. She has a wonderful voice and couldn’t be nicer. She told me that she would sent disc 2 out right away and to hang onto disc 3 when I get it. She told me they were having problems with sending seasons out in order so she would delete the other 3 discs from my queue and for me to just add them one at a time until they correct the problem.

Sara was more than helpful and extremely pleasant. I wished her happy holidays and the total phone called was 2 minutes long. Less than a minute after I hung up I got an email from NetFlix asking me to rate my experience.

I wish I could put in additional feedback on the experience because I found it more than satisfactory and though Sara at customer service was wonderful. Happy holidays Sara!

R.I.P. Josephine Guarnieri

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-08T17:26:22-05:00

After dinner at Amici’s tonight I have another viewing to go to. My Aunt Jo died. This is my second aunt to die in a week and a half. Here’s Aunt Jo’s obituary:

Josephine Guarnieri

Josephine Reno Guarnieri, 87, of Hamilton Township died Thursday at Compassionate Care Hospice at Saint Francis Medical Center, Trenton. Born in Trenton, she resided in Hamilton Township for the past 45 years. Mrs. Guarnieri retired in 2006 after more than 30 years from Little King Deli, Route 33, Hamilton Township.

She was the daughter of the late Gaetano and Antonietta Reno; sister of the late Carmen Aregnano, Frank Renio, Paul Renna, Frances Graziano, Caroline Mirabelli, Dorothy Botteri, and Madeline Scardone. She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Alfred Guarnieri; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Alan R. and Denise Guarnieri of Bordentown Township, and David Guarnieri of Hamilton Township; a sister-in-law, Sue Aregnano; two grandchildren, Alexa and Lucas Guarnieri, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The funeral will be held 9:30 a.m. Tuesday from the Brenna Funeral Home, 340 Hamilton Ave., Trenton. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. at Saint Mary's Church, 45 Crosswicks St., Bordentown. Burial will follow in Brig. General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, North Hanover Township. Calling hours for relatives and friends will be 6-9 p.m. Monday evening at the Brenna Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Alzheimers Association, Inc., Greater NJ Chapter, 400 Morris Ave., Suite 251, Denville, NJ 07834. (973-586-4300).

Monday

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-08T16:17:10-05:00

Mike Murray was flying into Atlantic City Airport today and I had asked him if he would like me to pick him up. He agreed. Every time I go down to Atlantic City I always drive by the Pic-A-Lili. Since I was a kid I would see this roadside restaurant in the middle of the pine barrens and always wanted to stop there. After I picked up Mike I asked him if he was hungry and of course he was, he’s always hungry. I finally went to the Pic-A-Lili. We sat right at the bar. Besides us, there were only a handfull of other customers in there, they all sat at the bar and they all seemed to be hunters. Kinda odd. The lovely girl that waited on us said they get a lot of hunters in there. Which brings me to this, what do hunters do? Is hunting their occupation? Do they sell the animals that they catch or kill? It’s a Monday afternoon, is that their day job? Well?

SNL Digital Short: Jizz in My Pants

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-07T15:10:03-05:00

SNL Digital Short: Pony Express

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-07T15:08:42-05:00

Nick Cave Teaterkoncerten

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-07T09:54:12-05:00

I was doing further research on that incredible stage production of Nick Cave’s “The Mercy Seat” and I found this:

http://www.aarhusteater.dk/om_nick_cave_teaterkoncerten.asp

I’m still doing further research but it looks like they have this entire theatrical performance based entirely on Nick Cave songs. I haven’t a clue what they’re saying but I know the original songs and I would love to see this live.

The Mercy Seat

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-06T21:19:05-05:00

The Mercy Seat is one of my favorite songs by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. Click the link to learn more about the song. I assembled some links to YouTube videos of various people covering song. It’s such an incredible song and nearly every version is fantastic. My favorite is the ‘acoustic’ version by Nick Cave himself, you can see a live version of that one by pressing play on the right.

There are many other Nick Cave songs that are covered on YouTube and for the most part they’re all very good. I think it has more to do with them being really well written songs to begin with.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ijKgb9yoJyY (INCREDIBLE Swedish stage production based around the song)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zc4q4sm5u5U (a fun ukulele version)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PU1DV-ANI0 (an ‘a cappella’ version with an interesting arrangement)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=laMnkJpKQgs (some full band)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oklAv0hEYc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6AbamNF8OnY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cui57jDT5PQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAAhvH4BFbA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZKHgJKFs-0 (this version is scary, but very interesting)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Em3nl_NO1Yc (good, kinda ‘cheesy’, I think they’re trying to hard to be weird)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N97ufdV-9Zc (a weird Swedish version with a DJ?)

There are many other cover versions on YouTube but I just wanted to link the ‘live’ versions.

Here’s the original Nick Cave album version
Johnny Cash version (not really a video but an important cover)

100,000 mile milestone

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-05T20:10:50-05:00

My car reached a milestone today, 100,000 miles. I got my Honda Civic brand new back in 1998. I am the only owner and nearly all 100,000 miles were driven by me.

I’m happy to say that I had very little trouble with my Honda over the last 10 years. What trouble I did have was very minor and easily fixable. Here’s to the next 100,000, I hope they’re as pleasant and easy going as my first 100,000.

Favorite TV shows of the week: November 30th to December 6th

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-06T09:26:59-05:00

1) Dexter - “Go Your Own Way” No Change
2) The Office - “The Surplus” Not Aired
3) Boston Legal - “Juiced” -1
4) 30 Rock - “Reunion" Not Aired
5) Fringe - “Safe” No Change
6) My Name Is Earl - “Reading is a Fundamental Case” Not Aired
7) Pushing Daisies - “Comfort Food” No Change
8) Kath and Kim - “Sacrifice” Not Aired
9) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the Sensei” -2
10) House - “Let Them Eat Cake” -6
11) The Life and Times of Tim - “Theo Strikes Back/Amy Gets Wasted” New to the List
12) Eli Stone - “Happy Birthday Nate” Not Aired
13) American Dad - “Phantom Telethon” Not Aired
14) Heroes - “The Eclipse, Part 2” No Change
15) The Simpsons - “Mypods and Boomsticks” Not Aired
16) King of the Hill - “Straight as an Arrow” Not Aired
17) Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles - “Self Made Man” No Change

Favorite TV shows of the week: November 23rd to November 29th

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-12-01T08:46:53-05:00

1) Dexter - “About Last Night” No Change
2) Boston Legal - “Thanksgiving” +6
3) Entourage - “Return to Queen’s Blvd.” No Change
4) House - “Last Resort” +10
5) Fringe - “The Dreamscape” -3
6) Pushing Daisies - “Robbing Hood” No Change
7) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the Gravitron” +4
8) Heroes - “The Eclipse, Part 1” No Change/+9
9) Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles - “Strange Things Happen at the One Two Point” No Change/+11

Harry Bush

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-29T17:42:35-05:00

This guy called DeLorenzo’s today. He was asking what our hours were. I don’t think I ever answered him due to me laughing so hard. It’s these little things that I find most enjoyable.

Happy Thanksgiving!

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-27T11:56:13-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone, unless you’re not American, then in that case, well, too bad, cause we get to eat a lot of pie and you don’t.

Redemption

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-23T12:42:39-05:00

Don’t forget. The 2 hour special of 24: Redemption will be airing tonight at 8PM on FOX. It is a warmup to the new season that starts in January. Time to get excited once again!

R.I.P. Mamie Labella

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-23T10:38:57-05:00

My aunt passed away late Thursday/early Friday. Here is the obituary from today’s Trenton Times. She will be greatly missed.

Mamie LaBella

Mamie (Valeri) LaBella, 85, entered into God's Care Friday in the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA. Born in Trenton, she was a lifelong area resident.

Predeceased by her parents Guilio and Caroline (DeCarolis) Valeri and a sister Catherine Parziale, she is survived by her husband of nearly 63 years, Leon J. LaBella; four sons and daughters-in-law, Andrew and Anne LaBella, Robert LaBella and Barbara Cease, Leon and Linda LaBella and Larry and Sherri LaBella; two sisters, Sue Aregnano and Mary Motchnik; her grandchildren and their spouses, Kelly Anne and Richard Hinton, Andrea and Tony Esposito, Julia LaBella and fiancée, Brian Cirillo, Sabrina and Dennis McAnulla, Nicholas LaBella, Dana LaBella, Anthony and Adrienne LaBella and Adria Cease; four great-grandchildren, Anthony Esposito, Joseph LaBella, Isabel Hinton and Madelyn McAnulla; several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Carmella LaBella, Molly Constantine, George and Jean Lanna, Mario and Sandy LaBella, several nieces and nephews, and many family and friends.

The funeral will be held 10 a.m. Tuesday from Chambers D'Errico and Correnti Funeral Home, 825 Chambers St. in Trenton. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. Tuesday in St. Anthony's Church, 626 South Olden Ave., Hamilton. Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery in Hamilton. Callings hours will be 8:30-10 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Mid-Jersey Chapter, 246 Monmouth Road Oakhurst, NJ 07755 (envelopes are available at the Funeral Home).

The Wrestler

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-20T20:00:00-05:00

The trailer for the new Darren Aronofsky film “The Wrestler” is finally officially online. I’m a big Darren Aronofsky fan, I loved The Fountain even though most of my friends are pretty mixed about it. Although Aronofsky didn’t write The Wrester it still looks like a great film with a great performance from Mickey Rourke. I’m definitely looking forward to this one.

http://www.apple.com/trailers/fox_searchlight/thewrestler/

Favorite TV shows of the week: November 16th to November 22nd

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-22T05:07:46-05:00

1) Dexter - “The Damage A Man Can Do” +4
2) Fringe - “The Equation” +5
3) Entourage - “Play’n With Fire” -1
4) It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia - “The Nightman Cometh” -3
5) The Office - “Frame Toby” -2
6) Pushing Daisies - “Oh Oh Oh It’s Magic” Not Aired
7) 30 Rock - “Gavin Volure" -1
8) Boston Legal - “Kill, Baby, Kill” -4
9) South Park - “The Ungroundable” +3
10) Kath and Kim - “Desire” -2
11) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the Fat Lady” -1
12) My Name Is Earl - “Nature's Game Show” -3
13) Family Guy - “Tales of Third Grade Nothing” -2
14) House - “Emancipation” -1
15) Eli Stone - “The Humanitarian” -1
16) American Dad - “Pulling Double Booty” -1
17) Heroes - “It’s Coming” +1
18) King of the Hill - “A Bill Full of Dollars” -2
19) The Simpsons - “Homer and Lisa Exchange” -2
20) Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles - “Complications” -1

Baby G and Noddy

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-18T15:40:04-05:00

I was still living in Baltimore when Baby G was born this past February. While I was down there I purchased him a “Noddy” doll to give him when I came back to NJ. At the time the doll was much bigger than he was. Now he’s bigger than Noddy. Here’s a picture of Baby G and Noddy.

SNL Digital Short: Everyone's A Critic

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-16T11:16:26-05:00

Making Art with Baby G

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-15T08:40:45-05:00

The following 2 pieces are my new artworks titled “Making Art with Baby G”. You can see higher quality versions of them under the artwork > digital section. Enjoy!

Top 5 Beautiful Ladies

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-13T15:00:58-05:00

Almost 3 years ago I had put up a top 12 list of my favorite sexiest animated characters. Today I’m giving you my top 5 real living breathing beautiful ladies, or as I say, my “to do” list.

and honorable mention of course goes to Scarlett Johanson and Natalie Portman. There’s a few others that I quite fancy, one of them being Judy Greer, she seems like a lot of fun, someone who I would want to spend all of my time with. All of these beautiful ladies are delicious, kinda like a bacon cheese burger. Mmmmmmm, tasty!

Who’s your favorite?

Caitlin Ryan Clothing Line

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-12T21:06:18-05:00

My friend Caitlin designed clothes for this video here. My friends Jess, Briners, Whitney and Q-Bert are the models and stars of the video. I don’t know the girl who filmed and edited the video but she’s very talented. The music in it is also great. Such a well done video, I find it very inspiring:

Favorite TV Shows of the week: November 9th to November 15th

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-16T12:01:31-05:00

1) It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia - “The Gang Gets Extreme: Home Makeover” +4
2) Entourage - “Seth Green Day” -1
3) The Office - “Business Trip” +1
4) Boston Legal - “Roe” -1
5) Dexter - “Easy As Pie” -3
6) 30 Rock - “The One with the Cast of "Night Court" +1
7) Fringe - “In Which We Meet Mr. Jones” Not Aired
8) Kath and Kim - “Jealousy” No Change
9) My Name Is Earl - “Earl and Joy's Anniversary” -2
10) Chuck - “Chuck Versus the Ex” Not Aired
11) Family Guy - “The Man With Two Brians” No Change
12) South Park - “Elementary School Musical” -3
13) House - “The Itch” Not Aired
14) Eli Stone - “Should I Stay Or Should I Go?” Not Aired
15) American Dad - “Escape From Pearl Bailey” -3
16) King of the Hill - “No Bobby Left Behind” -3
17) The Simpsons - “Dangerous Curves” -7
18) Heroes - “Villains” Not Aired
19) Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles - “Mr. Ferguson Is Ill Today” -5

March Of The Ants

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-11T16:38:13-05:00

I was very disappointed in my steak last night at Arthur’s. Arthur’s Tavern had 4 locations. The closest one being in North Brunswick and 3 others further away in North Jersey. The North Brunswick one was the closest at 40 minutes, half the time to the other 3. Well, we found out yesterday that Arthur’s Tavern in North Brunswick is now Arthur’s Steakhouse and Pub. It doesn’t come close to what it was like when it was Arthur’s Tavern. Before it was a unique and delicious steak, now it’s just a steak, nothing special about it. It’s safe to say that I won’t be going back there anymore. It’s a shame that the other locations aren’t closer.

I just got back from doing some food shopping at Shop Rite. Among my usual items I also wanted to try some different things. I got McCann’s Steel Cut Irish Oatmeal. I wanted to get the McCann’s instant oatmeal but they only had the traditional in a can. I’ve been wanting to try it for a while so I’m pretty excited about it. Maybe I’ll order the packs of instant off the internet. Also, something that I’ve been wanting to try for a long time now was goat milk. I don’t drink milk. Cow’s milk I find gross, not to mention it being bad for you. I use milk in my Ovaltine but I rarely have it. I use vanilla soy milk in my cereal. So when I got home I poured myself a glass of goat’s milk. I enjoyed it. Tastes slightly different than cow’s milk but didn’t leave that slimy texture in your mouth afterwards like cow’s milk does. If it was cheaper I’d get it more often.

Now I have a question, how would the oatmeal or the Ovaltine be with goat’s milk?

Welcome to my new blog

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-10T17:00:22-05:00

Well, I think I figured out the new blog program. I’m using RapidWeaver. It’s pretty neat, took me a while to figure out the editing of CSS and HTML but I’m on my way. I still have a few problems but once I get stuff figured out I’m sure things will fall into place.

If you’ve been reading my old blog then you’ve noticed that I haven’t been leaving many personal updates other than my favorite TV shows of the week and the occasional SNL Digital Short. I’ve just been plain busy.

Let’s see, what have I been up to? I went out with the girl I met at Bryan and Keilynn’s wedding a couple of times. That was a lot of fun. Over the weekend I met up with Joe and Ayla for dinner in Philly and while I was there I met up with my friend Leslie from MICA. She showed me her place, which is pretty scary, I’ll have to visit again when my other MICA friends are in town. Other than that you can pretty much see me at Jo Jo’s Tavern every Monday night at 8. Although tonight I’m going to Arthur’s Tavern. I haven’t been there in a while, delicious steaks. I’ve also been maintaining the NASCAR iCalendars. I maintain both the Sprint Cup and the Nationwide Series calendars. You can see them in the section.File Sharing

What else is new? Well, the Philadelphia Phillies won the World Series. Barrack Obama was elected the next president. The Ravens are now 6 and 3 and Ryan Newman is still struggling.

That’s all for now. I hope to update my new blog on a more regular basis now that things work a bit more. Enjoy!

Test Entry

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-10T15:01:03-05:00

Still testing my new blog. The old blog has been archived by year and is viewable on the right.

New Blog

jbeck@mac.com — 2008-11-10T11:24:18-05:00

This is my new blog. I’ve archived all of the old posts and am attempting to integrate them into this blog. I have a feeling it won’t be as easy as it sounds.

. . . the end of the line

Fever Ray - "Keep The Streets Empty"

Favorite TV shows of the week: November 15th to November 21st

SNL Digital Short: Two Worlds Collide ft. Reba McEntire

Depeche Mode - "Fragile Tension"

Favorite TV shows of the week: November 8th to November 14th

SNL Digital Short: Get Out

Favorite TV shows of the week: November 1st to November 7th

SNL Digital Short: Firelight

YANKEES WIN THE 2009 WORLD SERIES!

Favorite TV shows of the week: October 25th to October 31st

Baby G and the Pumpkin

more reviews of Fever Ray

Fever Ray - "Stranger Than Kindness"

Favorite TV shows of the week: October 18th to October 24th

Canal's

Favorite TV shows of the week: October 11th to October 17th

SNL Digital Short: Brenda & Shaun

Favorite TV shows of the week: October 4th to October 10th

SNL Digital Short: On The Ground

Favorite TV shows of the week: September 27th to October 3rd

Fever Ray live reviews

Fever Ray

Julia and Brian's Wedding

Favorite TV shows of the week: September 20th to September 26th

SNL Digital Short: Megan's Roommate

SNL Digital Short: The Date

Depeche Mode - "Hole to Feed"

Favorite TV shows of the week: September 13th to September 19th

Shoe Fitting X-Ray Machine

Fall TV

Snake...

Logitech Harmony One

Mr. Cool Suit

Paula Abdul says I'm beautiful...

Duchess, Clothier

Duchess

Another week off...

Cablevision and my new HD TV

the day after DM

Depeche Mode with Peter, Bjorn & John TONIGHT!

Happy Birthday Jennifer!

The Ten

Crosley Nomad

Picnic Time

Moon

R.I.P. Julia Beck

My Week Off...

Happy Beck!

Picnic Basket

Weekend

Business Cards

Curtin's Wharf

Art All Night

Depeche Mode - "Peace"

Duchess, Fine Clothier

Set for launch

Depeche Mode with Peter Bjorn and John

Fever Ray

Favorite TV shows of the week: May 10th to May 16th

Favorite TV shows of the week: May 3rd to May 9th

SNL Digital Short: Motherlover

Whatever Works

More Waltrip on Earl

Favorite TV shows of the week: April 26th to May 2nd

John Beck just signed with the Baltimore Ravens

Michael Waltrip in My Name Is Earl

Favorite TV shows of the week: April 19th to April 25th

Depeche Mode on Kimmel, the day after *UPDATE*

Depeche Mode on Kimmel TONIGHT!

Sounds of the Universe

R.I.P. Alfred Guarnieri

Favorite TV shows of the week: April 1th to April 18th

R.I.P. JG Ballard

Favorite TV shows of the week: April 5th to April 11th

LoveNetflix

That Woman Makes Crazy Art

Favorite TV shows of the week: March 29th to April 4th

SNL Digital Short: Like a Boss

Be my #1 fan!

Depeche Mode on Kimmel, the day after UPDATE