text:
An insider's view of what is really happening in the Harris County Criminal Courts
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Home Sick
72 comments:
My head is spinning as well, Murray, too much scandal to keep up with. I have no idea which grand jury/investigation this goes to.
At some point, it's not us, it's you.
- February 14, 2012 at 5:07 PM
Clearly, they are looking for the Mole.
Special Crimes, hope you read and commented on Murray's blog on your phone!
- February 14, 2012 at 5:13 PM
what offices or bureaus are located on the 5th floor?
- February 14, 2012 at 5:19 PM
Hope you feel better soon Murray.
Come one, come all to the Pat Lykos Traveling dog and pony show! Knowing that Patsy NEVER does anything unless she has filtered it through "How will this make me look?" political filter, I can assure you that she has a different agenda than the Rangers.
Whatever evidence of her misconduct regarding the 185th Grand Jury might have existed has been thoroughly scrubbed by now.
Except for one thing: She and Leitner instructed the Chief Investigator to run the names of Grand Jurors, Judges, and opponents through the Accurint system. that is a clear misuse of government computers, resources, and personnel for political purposes. Claiming it was done for legitimate, law enforcement purposes is completely laughable. it is a crime and a new Grand Jury and Special Prosecutor should be named immediately.
Hopefully the Texas Rangers will recognize they are being manipulatedt by a Master Politition and request the appointment of a Special Prosecutor.
Too bad lying to the news media and the public isn't a
Crime. She already have been charged.
- February 14, 2012 at 5:24 PM
I thought they were not doing an investigation but just a cursory internet check for misconduct. Am I wrong?
- February 14, 2012 at 5:27 PM
Hope you get to feeling better.
Here is the link to 13's story. It also confirms that the Texas Ranger investigation was on-going BEFORE Lykos wrote a letter to "request" it. Says they were seen removing "boxes" and "computers" from the DAs office.
- February 14, 2012 at 5:27 PM
Lol. They're only taking them because she asked them too.
- February 14, 2012 at 5:47 PM
At home, sick with the flu, on Valentine's Day? I thought the 'Life at the CJC' movie was supposed to be a legal thriller, not a romantic comedy.
Seriously, feel better, buddy.
- February 14, 2012 at 5:57 PM
The FBI isn't there. Texas GOP power will ensure nothing comes of anything. The news clip is stupid. It shows the Rangers moving from the SC door to the door leading down the hallway to the IT investigation offices and Gary is in the shot, not Zaller. For all we know they are coordinating on some other investigation and weren't even there to investigate the office over this GJ hubub. I mean, it could be a smokescreen and KTRK is gonna look really stupid. A good lawyer, as well as a politician, makes the next step before an opponent realizes it is going to happen.
- February 14, 2012 at 6:06 PM
Another first for the Lykos administration. I wonder if the Rangers had a warrant or if Lykos and others signed consents. Who had computers taken?
- February 14, 2012 at 6:08 PM
Sorry you feel bad. Hope your up and going soon.
- February 14, 2012 at 6:10 PM
For Christ sake's Pat. Can I go one day without seeing the office in the news for something other than putting bad guys in jail.
F me.
- February 14, 2012 at 6:12 PM
I hope they didn't take the jack daniels.....
- February 14, 2012 at 6:18 PM
Can somebody post the memo?
- February 14, 2012 at 6:37 PM
I was wondering if the Texas Rangers took Joe the Investigator with them?
- February 14, 2012 at 8:05 PM
Agreed. The Texas and HC GOP machines will, with 90% probability, cover this up as we see over and over again in such corruption cases. With the feds out, I say nothing becomes of it. Feds are probably happy, after doing a check of their systems, that none of the federal databases were used.
Even with tons of bad media it's hard to get anything done, as the GOP establishment controls everything. More likely she is forced out then prosecuted. Feds had to step in for Eversole, but they always accept a plea in the end. Woody Densen a few years ago was interesting, but he was on audio and video and was out of office so long the establishment didn't really care. Even with all that evidence, Patsy still went to GJ on old Woody.
- February 14, 2012 at 8:15 PM
The party may not care, but the money cares. This is too much at one time, and she is acting like an amateur.
Seriously? Over this piddly crap? BAT Vans and grand jurors and $5 on a timesheet? Rookie.
- February 14, 2012 at 8:56 PM
She needs to resign. This is so embarassing.
The republicans, and I'm talking to you Ed Emmett, need to make her leave. She's 70 years old--get out, retire, leave, as you're only hurting other republicans. When her only allies are Polland (I make my living completely on the government tit and I don't even work for them), and Woodfill (my world's about to crash down on me because I've borrowed millions with no way to pay it back) the rest of you republican powers that be need to step in and set things straight! Get her off the ballot, get behind Mike and get this office running respectably again!
- February 14, 2012 at 9:55 PM
I agree that nothing will come of it. Ultimately, that will cause Pat Lykos to come out smelling like roses. Think about it, all she has to say is, "I said all along that my office did nothing wrong. We were investigated by two grand juries, the Texas Rangers, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation and they did not file any formal charges as a result of their investigation. The BAT vans were tested and found to be reliable as well. If elected, I will continue to serve Harris County with integrity that can withstand investigation, and I will continue to prosecute criminals in Harris County."
Get ready, my prosecutor friends, Pat Lykos is going to get re-elected. I'm not upset by that thought, and, no, I am not Jim Leitner or any of the others you think I am. I just prefer Lykos to Anderson. All in all, I prefer Fertitta (is that how you spell his name?) over Lykos, but believe Republicans will win the ticket (damn straight-ticket voting!).
- February 14, 2012 at 10:02 PM
Whether Mike is better or not is irrelevant. The GOP establishment has made it clear that it does not support him. Running against a fellow GOP incumbent for a judicial position is one thing. Running for DA against the party chosen, and an incumbent, is a whole "nother" matter. Further, the GJ ties to the Anderson's and some postings on his (and wife's
) facebook regarding corruption in DA office spell end of HC career unless Lykos is in fact removed somehow. Mike is a good guy, but is treading in very dangerous waters. Just my opinion / assessment - gotta love Harris County politics.
- February 14, 2012 at 10:26 PM
I attended a very large Republican club event tonight where Mike Anderson was one of many candidates who spoke. Lykos was not there, even though she was invited.
When Mike Anderson spoke, he got huge applause and cheering, far more than any other candidate for any office. He has been very well received anytime he has attended a meeting where I have been.
As far as the Republican Party of TX covering up for Lykos, nothing could be further from the truth. The state party couldn't care less which Republican is DA in a particular county in TX. This is always true, but even more so since the state party is very busy with the redistricting mess.
Things are looking good for Mike, as long as everyone does their part.
Hope you feel better soon, Murray.
Republican Activist
- February 15, 2012 at 1:02 AM
Man...yall judt all actin giddy bat shit crszy.
Enough with all the deep throat gop coverup crap. This woman is political toast. Plus the longer Primsry will not help.
Normally the Primary would be March 3. Now MAYBE APRIL 17TH. If it sounds like horse hoofs..don't think zebras.
- February 15, 2012 at 1:34 AM
Anyone know how many appeals Palmer and Shadwick have written?
- February 15, 2012 at 5:47 AM
- Murray Newman said...
So, under that theory, if Chuck Rosenthal had decided to run again in 2008, he would have won?
- February 15, 2012 at 7:38 AM
Here's an interview with Anderson.
- February 15, 2012 at 9:02 AM
Well, apparently Lykos is going all Ted Cruz on us and trying to campaign "grass-roots style" with all her interviews to blawgers. First Bowl full of Jelly and now Kuffington.
So, with that in mind, I think you should send a formal request to Ms. Lykos for a formal interview to see where she stands on the issues. Surely, she will want to get her message out through you - especially since your total readership is greater than the other two combined.
- February 15, 2012 at 9:43 AM
My voting preferences are as thus: Anderson > Fertitta > a ham sandwich > Lloyd > Hitler > Lykos.
- February 15, 2012 at 10:09 AM
"We are eager to show the public all the evidence in this case." - Patricia R. Lykos (2/1/12)
"The Harris County District Attorney's Office has long been eager to share what we know with the public. Now that the grand jury's proceedings have ended, we will be responding—vigorously.
In the days to come, our website—HarrisCountyDA.com—will feature a new section devoted to setting the record straight." (source: www.harriscountyda.com).
Ms Lykos:
Cherio! Well, we have to be honest - it's becoming difficult out here trying to defend you on the campaign trail. It sure would be helpful if you could release this evidence.
Hopefully, today is the day. Hopefully, you kept copies of whatever those good lookin' Rangers took yesterday.
- the public
- February 15, 2012 at 11:46 AM
Remember Pat Lykos wore a badge and gun and put her life in danger when she was a police officer. Johnny and Chuck listened to police scanners as someone mentioned.Pat Lykos was on the streets risking her life to protect the citizens. You can not take that away from her.No one is perfect.
- February 15, 2012 at 1:07 PM
At this point, Token Man Rick would be a better DA than Pat Lykos.
- February 15, 2012 at 2:05 PM
From The Bunker - please give us an update on what's going on?
- February 15, 2012 at 2:08 PM
Mike Anderson is the speaker Thursday at Downtown Pachyderm meeting at Spaghetti Warehouse, 901 Commerce At Travis from 11:30 to 1:00. Lunch is $8. Pay at cashier, then go upstairs.
Come support Mike!
Republican Activist
- February 15, 2012 at 3:26 PM
Pat wore a skirt and sat at a desk at HPD. Seriously...women didn't tackle bad guys and shoot at suspected murderers on the police force of Houston, Texas in the 1970s. Reality check is in order.
- February 15, 2012 at 4:46 PM
If she is giving interviews to blawgers then they are members of the media. Murray, that makes you a member of the media too! Try to go to her next press conference and see what they do!
- February 15, 2012 at 4:49 PM
Anon 2:07
I worked with Pat Lykos in the early 1970's. Back then, Female officers were only assigned to work in the Jail or The Juvenile Division. They didn't strap on a Sam Browne belt and hit the streets. (not that they shouldn't have been allowed to do so, that's just how things were back then)
She sat at a desk and studied the books to take the Sergeant exam and then took classes at law school. She could have been I a shiny example of a police officer who worked there way up to being appointed as a Judge. Instead she earned a reputation that the Chief swore he'd never promote her (he didn't) so she quit to practice
Mostly Civil and Famliy Law. Once she was appointed as Judge, she showed her inability to manage her court by
going through court personnel. She is still the same social retard she has always been only now, she mismanages a staff of over 500 people. Can you simply understand that she doesn't have a clue what she is doing? Do you really think this blog would exist if she wasn't every bit as horrible as you are being told??
- February 15, 2012 at 5:06 PM
I personally rode as a peace officer in a vehicle with Johnny Holmes and two DA investigators running felony fugitive warrants during a Saturday Fugitive roundup that many agencies were involved in, back in 1981 or 1982.
We went after some bad hombres. Holmes was armed. He took orders as did I from the DA investigator in charge and followed their orders and directions during contacts. He did not wait in the car.
It was the most pleasant time I ever spent with him, and he was actually quite friendly at that time. Moreso like a "real" person than he normally was.
True, he'd have that scanner blazing in his office and his car had a plethora of police radios. I can't remember if he had red and blue lights and a siren in his county car, which was a black LTD way back when.
Occasionally, I know he would show up at scenes and wait across the street during hazardous calls where a solo officer was handling the scene. I saw him do this several times.
He didn't interfere and was just standing by in his vehicle to back the officer up until other units arrived. Back then, officers were running solo both for HPD and the HCSO to put more units on the street, officer safety be damned.
Got mixed feelings about JBH and he did like to play police but at least he did it with respect for the officers he worked with and didn't pull rank and act like the typical weekend warrier reserve with lots of money and no sense.
The officers on the street did appreciate that he did these things.
- February 15, 2012 at 5:49 PM
I think it would exist 3:06--it existed before Lykos, after all. I just think it would be more diverse and touch on the issues surrounding criminal law aside from the DA. But he'd still be a prosecutor, so what few little glimpses of hope Murray has shown would not exist.
- February 15, 2012 at 5:51 PM
I'm a cop who is out there every day putting my life on the line. Lykos may have been a police officer (40 years ago), but she is not one of us.
- February 15, 2012 at 6:06 PM
I worked for Vance, Holmes, and Rosenthal before I retired. I never in my life thought I'd live to see the Texas Rangers removing possible evidence of "wrong doing" by the current administration. Chuck has some morality issues, but nothing like Lykos. She's a complete idiot. That's what happens when you elect someone who's never tried a case or managed people. It's a sad day for Harris County law enforcement and criminal justice.
- February 15, 2012 at 6:12 PM
If this interview were to actually happen, I'd love to hear the Fif question. Of course, she'd just snort and stomp off, so that wouldn't end up being very useful.
Next time Jimmy calls me up for some major crime like being 10 minutes late to intake, I'm going to plea the fifth.
- February 15, 2012 at 7:29 PM
Many of you probably remember Wally Zeringue who retired as a Lt. Investigator around 2000. He and I were partners in the mid 80s in white collar. NIcest guy you coiuld hope to meet. He told me that when at HPD he briefly was her training Sgt. In the old Juvenile Division. She apparently didn't make it very long and was just rude and mean to other officers and people she came into contact with. I was with him on several occasions during those years when we needed a warrant signed. Lykos was particularly rude to Wally on those occasions. I guess it's just her personality. I guess narcissus can be cured, but its a little late in her case.
By the way, don't draw the wrong conclusions about Gary Johnson. He is one of the really bright good guys and I doubt he would knowingly be involved in investigating the grand jury. He has enough time in to tell her to shove it.
Hope you are feeling better Murray.
- February 15, 2012 at 7:49 PM
Is she paying KHOU or something? Talk about a fluff piece without the simplest question for her claim that the Rangers are here at her request: "When did you make this request?" She would be forced to either lie about the date or admit that the Rangers arrived to investigate independently.
- February 15, 2012 at 7:58 PM
Interesting story on Fox Channel 26a few minutes ago..... seems she walked out of her own press conference today when asked about the Ranger probe!!!!! Folks, the wheels are truly coming off now.!!
"D.A. Pat Lykos Walks Out of Her Own Press Conference"
Read more: http://www.myfoxhouston.com
- February 15, 2012 at 8:28 PM
Well, shucks. That one didn't work so well.
- February 15, 2012 at 8:29 PM
Didn't I write something lastweek about KHOU always kissing the DA's office's you know what. Where did Patsy go tonight to tell her side of the story - well, no one else except, you guessed it, KHOU!!!
Media sources in order to preference to Patsy:
Patsy Blogs (Big Jolly) > KHOU > The Chron > KTRK
- February 15, 2012 at 9:41 PM
Sorry, forgot the link:
"Harris County District Attorney takes action over rumors surrounding office" the title, hahaha
- February 15, 2012 at 9:46 PM
MIKE ANDERSON is the speaker today (Thur.) at Downtown Pachyderm at Spaghetti Warehouse 11:30-1:00pm. Lunch is $8 if you are eating.
Come support Mike! This is a very friendly club, but Don Hooper often attends. He is bound to be there asking, "When did you stop beating your wife?" type questions.
Come show your support for Mike if you can.
- February 16, 2012 at 1:03 AM
In answer to your query Jig (CO) regarding whether or not the Narcissist Personality Disorder listed in the current DSM Psychological "Bible" can be "cured".
The answer is absolutely NOT.
These people rarely end up in a therapy setting and even then it is usually because they want the therapist to help them understand why won't other people do what they want of him / her because (in the sick person's mind)these people can't keep acting separate and apart from the narcissist because to them - OTHER PEOPLE are merely extensions of THEM, and CONTROL is the watch word.
NO ONE has CONTROL over a narcissistic person and when "things", thought to be structured and planned out mentally - like press conferences -suddenly become fluid, like they should be, the script is trashed and they stomp out - like the spoiled inner child that they are.
"It's all about ME "is their mantra and how dare anyone spoil MY press conference?
Once they indirectly see the therapist trying to get them to even slightly alter their own perception of OTHER people as being just that - OTHER, separate, and apart from people than of themselves, the patient, then starts to cancel appointments. How would you feel if one morning you tried to get dressed and the arms to your shirt refused to allow you to put your arm in? This is a very small example of just a smidgen of the frustration narcissist feel when others don't act as they wish they would.
Psychologically, many arm chair Psychologists on this Blog have correctly pegged Ms. Lykos over and over again as suffering from this incurable Personality Disorder. Even THIS fact is a reality they are unable to see for themselves, and, contrary to popular belief, they do NOT love themselves!
If you want to know What / How people with this disorder truly feel deep down inside, Just turn their victims' shaken inner self inside out and there lies the embarrassing yet tragic truth – IE: It's how they make others feel - so belittled that they harbor deep within their own self that causes them to constantly need what is their "food" or narcissist supply – OTHER people to belittle and then build back up to step on again in an effort to rise up like some morbid ladder of innocent collected egos.
First they climb the ladder (stepping on people - yet feeling higher and more important because they deserve it all and they must at all times be the King or Queen) stepping on each person's head - as many times as the person will put up with it. As she pushes them down emotionally and psychologically, while she simultaneously "rises" herself up to a higher level of self-importance.
In power, these people can be truly destructive and completely unyielding. But here is the very unique part of this disorder that is so troubling. In order to "keep" people around them to be a constant rubber-band and target of a macabre good-cop-bad-cop groundhog-day nightmare, they eventually HAVE to throw the narcissistic suppliers a "bone" to build them back up - then the put-down process begins anew until the "victim" hopefully sees the truth in the AA serenity prayer and gets the hell out.
These sick individuals should be viewed from afar and should - at all costs - NOT hold positions of power.
She will never retreat; never see herself as others do, and fight till the end to hold onto this power to feed and protect her inner extremely fragile ego by demanding from others that which she would never do if the shoe were on the other foot.
Dr. Getterdefookoudz, Ph.D.
- February 16, 2012 at 2:41 AM
Lykos the Coward leaves a press conference she called when she's asked questions that weren't on a pre-approved list disigned for sound bites.
- February 16, 2012 at 7:27 AM
Media sources in order to preference to Mikey:
Mikey Blogs (Life at the Harris County Criminal Justice Center and Stealth)> KTRH Channel 13 > Ted Oberg > Steve Hotze > Terry Lowry > 185th GJ Foreman.
Let's be fair and balanced shall we?
- February 16, 2012 at 7:49 AM
I just watched the fox interview. Wow, thanks Pat, you are quickly becoming one of Mike Anderson or Zack Fertitta's biggest contributors. Keep that arrogance in place, it is working so well for everyone but you. The citizens all appreciate your transparency and honesty so much. I am sure everyone that watched that interview are lining up to vote for you because you have become so transparent, they feel like they are really getting to know you. Keep up the good work. I imagine Mike or Zack will take monetary donations as well.
A side note: Pat if you really think you are going to be able to get in front of any camera for one of your "I am so great look what I have done interviews you are dead wrong". Kiss them goodbye now. Every time you get in front of a camera someone is going to ask you about this mess you have created. The public has a right to know.
It sure is going to be hard to campaign from behind closed doors. Good luck with that.
- February 16, 2012 at 7:56 AM
@reality Check 7:49 - if we are going to be fair and balanced Pat Lykos own lies, press conferences and narcistic behavior top the list of media sources favoring Anderson. She is her worst enemy and Anderson's personal energizer bunny. I'm hoping Dr Getterdefookoudtz will explain how Lykos' mental collapse will continue to escalate the more she is backed into a corner.
- February 16, 2012 at 8:50 AM
That clip of Lykos walking out is hilarious.
- February 16, 2012 at 9:20 AM
Dr. "G", Ph.D. here re: " February 16, 2012 8:50 AM request: "I'm hoping Dr Getterdefookoudtz will explain how Lykos' mental collapse will continue to escalate the more she is backed into a corner."
Frankly, under the present situation I am surprised she continues to appear in any staged public press conference situation without getting some sort of pre-arranged North Korea type blood oath media agreements from her perceived "friendlies".
I predict you will not be seeing much of her in any Q & A format - until – at least, if and when the Texas Rangers "clear" her - if any. The fact that she even tried to control the true timing of the Texas Ranger investigation with the investigative letter request – after the fact -is yet another good example of her trying to control the her image. If nothing investigative wise happens, I would imagine a full blown Ball at the Rice Hotel. If things go the other way, or she is defeated in the election - it will be psychologically crushing and the false martyr will emerge.
You saw how she paraded out at the post G.J. non-indictment, post ½ million dollar gift to HPD appearance. This was to be her coming out party for the campaign, after hiding and trying to control how she appeared to the public - above the fray and all that during the G.J. matters. Then all goes slow motion like in her brain as Oberg asks the question (she had not approved but sure looked culpable) about whether or not she ordered an investigation of the members of the grand Jury – as their memo suggested. Deer in the Headlights time. "I didn't order any such investigation…give, give me a name". Image took a huge hit. Back to the image drawing board, but this time others speak for her – outside!
From now on If ANY local media outlet continues to show up to only cover what SHE wants them to cover and "heals" like KHOU and KPRC (Virgin Mary in the tree) then they are willingly playing into her dark psychological theatrical Play as fellow bit actors, not the neutral professional media one would expect. I don't have to type out any pattern of future actions by Ms. L. - any 3rd grader can write the script based on her past behavior.
She will never let what happened yesterday ever happen again. Hibernation begins now; with, surrogate spokespersons, D.A. Letterhead pronouncements and sycophant blog posts, once again, ruling the day. Notice her exit line in the horribly handled new conference with the fox reporter's question: "Let's just let the experts take over, better yet lets end this right now".
Did you see the "Buster Brown" blond jumped into the fray to cover the Queen's exit with both arms stretched out like a member of the Secret Service? If the audio had not been cut short, I'll bet this person was saying something like, "this press conference is over" or better yet: "We will only answer questions regarding the original purpose of the press release".
In the future, if, PL does choose to take another perceived controlled public press peek appearance, at a minimum, I suggest her handlers coordinate a better fire drill exit strategy.
One sure bet is this: Anytime P.L. looks bad or her imagined self-image is threatened, heads will roll! She really should try and at least keep the appearances up while in retreat. This event definitely did NOT "LOOK" good and neither did she.
- February 16, 2012 at 10:48 AM
@Anon 8:50 Fair enough. What we can all agree on is that media coverage in Houston is third rate, with stations clearly biased to certain parties. In a real major market (LA, NY, or Chicago), you would never see such a collection of stories on the same topic all with vastly different slants. Houston's media = amateurs. The information one can get online from blogs in Harris County is as good, and may be better, than that obtained from the media - at least it is unfiltered from its source.
As for Patsy's current psychologiucal condition, we don't need Dr Getterdefookoudtz for that one. It is really quite simple, actually. Since Jack Daniel's bottles per day is unobservable to those of us not in the office, the best way to determine her psychological condition by day is byn plotting smoke breaks per day (publically observable) versus time. It is well known that anyone addicted to anything (whether that be smoking, alcohol, or drugs) increases its use during periods of stress. Can we put someone in charge of collecting this data, Murray??
Anon 7:49
- February 16, 2012 at 10:50 AM
I don't understand why some of you comments are ridiculing Lykos' appearances and misstatements to the news media. I thought Lykos is just making these for Mike Anderson and Zack Fertitta to play clips of when they start running their TV campaign ads...
They ought to be paying her a small appearance fee for the campaign fodder.
- February 16, 2012 at 11:49 AM
The Chron has more important news, like "Teen accused of making phony Facebook page with ex's topless photo." Awesome. Keep fighting the good fight, guys.
I guess they'll get to the story when it involves a topless photo, God help us all.
- February 16, 2012 at 12:01 PM
This is going to be a long expensive campaign if the primary is at the end of May
- February 16, 2012 at 2:14 PM
"We are eager to show the public all the evidence in this case." - Patricia R. Lykos (2/1/12)
"The Harris County District Attorney's Office has long been eager to share what we know with the public. Now that the grand jury's proceedings have ended, we will be responding—vigorously.
In the days to come, our website—HarrisCountyDA.com—will feature a new section devoted to setting the record straight." (source: www.harriscountyda.com).
Ms. Lykos:
Hi there. It was a rough day yesterday. How ya doing? Unfortunately, we saw Fox news and what happened. It kind of hurt our cause - a little bit. We can bounce back, though.
New idea: What we could really use right now is the relase of that evidence you referenced above. That should do it.
Keep your head up; you look great in blue.
We look forward to seeing the new section of the website.
- the public
- February 16, 2012 at 2:35 PM
The Texas Rangers investigating the Harris County District Attorney's Office asked Thursday for a special prosecutor to be appointed.
No doubt because she asked them to. Lmao.
- February 16, 2012 at 4:39 PM
The Texas Rangers investigating the Harris County District Attorney's Office asked Thursday for a special prosecutor to be appointed.
State District Judge Belinda Hill, the administrative judge who oversees Houston's criminal courts, said the investigative agency called and asked for a prosecutor pro tem to assist its investigation.
Hill said she is mulling the request and could rule as soon as Friday.
The development was the latest in an unfolding investigation that Harris County District Attorney Pat Lykos said she requested Friday, although the Rangers and agents from the FBI began talking to employees of the district attorney's office before the request.
The probe stems from allegations the office investigated grand jurors who spent six months looking into evidence collected by the Houston Police Department's troubled breath alcohol testing vehicles.
It is unclear why the Rangers asked for the special prosecutor. Typically, a special prosecutor helps with procedures in presenting cases to a grand jury.
A grand jury investigating Lykos for six months ended its session in January without handing down any indictments. They did issue a letter accusing the district attorney's office of investigating them which spawned the Rangers' investigation.
Lykos has said she asked her chief investigator to look into possible political connections between grand jurors, the judge who empaneled them and a political opponent, but did not request an investigation.
- February 16, 2012 at 4:40 PM
- Jim Bell said...
Here's the latest. The Chron is reporting that the Texas Rangers have asked Judge Melinda Hill to appoint a special prosecutor to assist them their investigation.
This gets better and better by the day.
- February 16, 2012 at 4:42 PM
- Jim Bell said...
Sorry, I meant Judge BELINDA Hill.
- February 16, 2012 at 4:44 PM
maybe they're gonna pursue a criminal investigation of slander, libel and innuendo - per Pat's request. Or maybe they're trying to find her STRAWBERRIES!!!!
- February 16, 2012 at 5:12 PM
Well, Pat - it appears them Rangers found those recordings on the hard drive.
Excellent idea!
- February 16, 2012 at 5:37 PM
I'd give my left nut if Kelly Siegler was appointed Special Prosecutor. Wouldn't that be f'ing fantastic????
- February 16, 2012 at 5:48 PM
KHOU is working on fluffing their story about the special prosecutor. It takes time to figure out how to add all the fluff. It'll be out by the 10PM news in true KHOU fashion...
- February 16, 2012 at 6:08 PM
DPS has plenty of staff attorneys to answer procedural questions for the Rangers. Lykos is fulla BS on her updated statement about saying she was expecting Rangers to ask for a special prosecutor.
- February 16, 2012 at 6:12 PM
But I tell you, criminal information about those jurors did exist. I know now that the grand jurors were only trying to protect a fellow grand juror. . . . .of course I can only recall these incidents from memory. . . . .
- February 16, 2012 at 6:20 PM
Murray, just admit you ate the damn strawberries.
- February 16, 2012 at 6:43 PM
9:30PM. ABC is running it front page.
KHOU hasn't figured this story out yet. It has figured out "Rescuers save man, rabbit from high water."
Chronicle is running this "updated" on the local page and has added a quote from her highness.
"This will expedite the process." Oh yes, Patsy, it will.
- February 16, 2012 at 9:41 PM
To the voters of Harris County who have recently become followers of this Blog:
The following are excerpts from this Blog BEFORE PL was sworn in, but AFTER, she had "won" the poorly attended runoff. What was so apparent to me after reading these words was one word: "fear of the unknown". People had lost their footing. Felt dizzy - professionally. Insecure - and rightly so. There had just been a ceremony for 233 years of prosecutorial experience being fired / let go / resigned from the office due to the new administration coming in. KPRC had balls with Phil Archer covering the moment.
December 31, 2008 3:21 PM
Murray said: Anon 3:21,
I haven't heard anything about what was going on at the Office other than Lykos putting her name up on everything faster than an 8th grader with a new set of spiral notebooks. If there were any additions or changes to the Flow Chart from a few weeks ago, I'm not aware of them. Anybody else care to enlighten us on that?
December 31, 2008 3:45 PM
Anonymous said...
a new flow chart will be announced in about 30-45 days after some ongoing investigations are done - -- yes,there are some moles here.
December 31, 2008 5:53 PM
Murray said: Anon 5:53 pm,
Thanks for the info! I wonder if the ongoing investigations are targeting political enemies. Can't say that would surprise me.
OK, now that you have seen the before, and present, I ask you, the entire "honest" outside political Harris County voting public: What are you going to do to stop the bleeding and cure the future? Do you now see what was being feared by the "insider courthouse crowd who has known PL for YEARS as a judge and what they were so afraid of? Just look at the mess "The Honorable" Judge Pat Lykos has gotten this truly honorable Office and County into? In a few short months you will have the chance to do it - but please - DO IT! Vote her out of office!
- February 18, 2012 at 2:03 PM


text:
London. It may rain. It may hail. It may bluster. IT WILL STORM. PV STORM.
I've been in the shadows but you better believe I've been watching. Here's how I see it, and how it's gonna be.
Sam "short bag" Kendricks - no travel concerns here for the man with the 15' bag of poles. Kendricks has found fireworks more often than the Army Reserves this year (1 weekend a month), but can the little man with the shiny dome find some gold?
Shawn "long bag" Barber - the defender. Slow year, fast lifestyle. Shawn is the man with the plan, and with mostly 5.60's this season, I feel the big ginger will have a big result at worlds. He's jumped high in this stadium before. He's gonna bend those 18' poles like Beckham and come out of the top like a big red bottle rocket.
Thiago "uh oh found another gear in the shed" Braz - can the boy with the lightning in a bottle history unleash another bolt?
Piotr "you're gonna hear me roar" Lisek - the screamer from the east. The big man with the big yell. The locomotive from Warsaw. The power plant. The linebacker. The big pole with the big pole. Don't look now. Actually, do cuz you's about to get run over. He's bringing it.
Pawel "I celebrate alone" Wojkowksi - we all saw the celebration snub in Lausanne after his PB. Wow. The hype is so real. The form is there, he's won it before, don't underestimate the snub master.
Rapha "SOS right standard official here I come" Holzdeppe - he gets better the closer he gets to missing the pit. If he commits to landing on the deck, his form suggests a dark horse medal.
Renaud "big daddy" Lavillenie- papa lav has a fresh baby, a new lease on life and a tried and true mentality. Here we go. The French freak is out for blood this time around. This man has to feed a family now. He's going scalping!
PV Storm Prediction:
1) big daddy renny
2) short bag Sam
3) big pole Piotr
Did I miss anyone?
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Bob Hiltermann grew up in Germany, where he was the tenth of eleven children. Spinal meningitis left him deaf at the age of four; but it was not discovered until he was 10 years old. When he was five, his family relocated across the Atlantic to Canada. Moving to a new country and adjusting to a different life with eleven children to care for, Hiltermann's parents never realized he was deaf, they just assumed he had learning disabilities. Besides not being able to hear, everyone was speaking in a new language. Hiltermann wondered if he had learning issues when he could see others communicate so easily, but it was so hard for him.
Finally, when he was ten-years old, a hearing test uncovered the fact that he was deaf. After all this time, his family had grown accustomed to treating him as if he were mentally challenged. It must have been extremely frustrating for Hiltermann who is a very intelligent person, so his memories from the age of ten to seventeen were far from happy. When he was 18, a counselor suggested he attend Gallaudet University in Washington D.C. It was there that his life changed when he was introduced to American Sign Language.
"I think that's why it's so important to him now, to share the joy of Sign Language with others," says director Marty Elcan, who produced and directed the popular DVD series Shut Up & Sign that stars Hiltermann.
His credits include; a year's run on the soap "All My Children," a guest star in "Cold Case," several feature films that include, "Children of a Lesser God," "The Heart is a Drum Machine" and "The Hammer." Hiltermann is one of four deaf entertainers featured in the well-received documentary "See What I'm Saying." He is the drummer with the wildly popular, all-deaf rock band "Beethoven's Nightmare,' which performs around the world and will be performing in France and Russia this year. Hiltermann co-founded "MUSIGN," an extremely popular Signing/Mime musical troupe, and Deaf West Theatre, a multi-awards theater in Los Angeles.
Splash: Tell us about the band and how you formed it.
Hiltermann: Back in early 2000, I was thinking about reforming a deaf rock band that I had back in my college days. Since we had taken a long break from performing, I contacted Ed Chevy, my bassist and Steve Longo, my guitarist, and they agreed to regroup. We came up with a new name, "Beethoven's Nightmare." This was to honor Ludwig Von Beethoven, for his amazing classical music and his worst nightmare, which was his deafness. We're all deaf rockers, hence the name. We play all original songs with the exception of our cover song, "Roll Over Beethoven." Since we reformed, we've rocked across America and our fan base has grown tremendously. I realize now, that my band is truly remarkable – one of a kind – the only deaf band in the world. It has been a great honor working with two extremely talented deaf musicians.
Splash: Please explain how you can tell if your music sounds good to hearing people?
Hiltermann: We tend to invite hearing folks to hear us play and give us feedback. During live concerts, we see hearing people pumping their fists, enjoying our music just as much as deaf people. So many people are astounded that we deaf musicians can really play at the same professional level as our hearing counterparts. We enjoy rock music because it feels right deep down inside. Ed Chevy wrote the lyrics and composed all the music. We learn these songs through intensive rehearsals in blood, sweat, and tears until the music is perfectly in-sync.
Splash: What challenges do you see your band having in the future?
Hiltermann: The biggest challenge we have is finding a manager who can help us to crossover into the major music environment. We've been together for 12 years since we reformed, and I would like my band on the radar - to be the opening act for big name bands, and to show audiences that we can rock their socks off. I would also like my band to perform on TV, such as: late night talk shows, American Music Awards, Grammy, Saturday Night Live, 20/20, CNN, etc. I just wanted to share with the world how miraculous it is that a deaf rock band can do what nobody ever thought possible. It's like a freak show that everyone would be curious about. These are the challenges that I see my band having right now, but I'm optimistic.
Splash: How do you think you are influencing other deaf students?
Hiltermann: My influence to deaf students has been mostly about positive attitude and believing in themselves no matter what anyone says. If someone says no, move on until you find a yes. They can make their dreams come true by staying focused and working hard. There's no free ride.
Splash: What would you like to see in the future for deaf people?
Hiltermann: Since American Sign Language has become very popular (the third most common language used today), more and more hearing people are opening up and communicating with deaf people. I would like to see more accessibility, equal rights, and opportunities for deaf people. They can do just about anything hearing people can do, except hear. I would also like to see more deaf people open up and learn to play music.
Splash: What do you do on the set when everyone else does not sign, how do you communicate?
Hiltermann: One of my skills is lip reading. I tend to understand better when I'm closer to a person, so I can see the details of the mouth movement and facial expression. Sometimes, they need to write down on paper, but usually, they hire a sign language interpreter on the set.
Splash: Why do you think you've been so successful, is it the struggles?
Hiltermann: Well, life is full of challenges. My struggles have shaped me into a stronger and wiser person. My success has been breaking down the barriers of oppressions and doubts. Learning to play music turned out to be the best decision of my life. However, one of my on-going struggles is trying to be hired as an actor in films and TV. There aren't any roles for me. I once played a hearing role with a voiceover in the movie and it was truly a success. It had never been done before with a deaf actor playing a hearing role. It's the first of its kind. Everybody thought I was hearing. I would love to do that again. I believe as an actor, anything is possible.
Splash: I see there is a new band member, how did you find him?
Hiltermann: We had been looking for a rock singer who can sign. I knew the actor and writer, Paul Raci, for many years, and he recently acted with me in the play "Cyrano." In this play, Paul sang and signed a rock song that just blew me away to heaven. I never knew he could sing like that. Paul is a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) and used to be in a heavy metal rock band before he became an actor. One day he offered to sing for the band. After discussing with Ed and Steve, it was a big YES from us. Paul just wrote an independent film, Deaf Ghost, in which he will star and feature the band. We're very excited and honored to have Paul as a new band member.
Splash: What is next for Beethoven's Nightmare?
Hiltermann: We continue to come together for rehearsals in Los Angeles. Our next intensive rehearsal will be during Memorial weekend and then we record a new song, which will be available on iTunes. A music video will follow. This year we're invited back to France to play for an audience that will be twice the size as when we performed in 2011. After that, we will be touring in great Russia. We're very looking forward to these tours.
Splash: What is next for Bob Hiltermann?
Hiltermann: I just gave a motivational speech and conducted drumming workshops for the wonderful Deaf Arts Jubilee in San Diego. I continue to teach sign language classes in Los Angeles. In between, I audition, spend time with my family, and play music in my studio whenever I can. Soon, I'll be hosting and acting for my 4th episode of the sign language educational series, "Shut Up and Sign." This new episode will be called, "What a Wonderful World." Then tour and rock with Beethoven's Nightmare in France and Russia.
For more information please go to: http://bobhiltermann.com/ or http://beethovensnightmare.com/joomla/
For PR contact: [email protected] 1-818-749-6721


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71 Regents Park Road
London NW1 8UY
Note: Lanka is a small cafe with stool seating and three small tables; reservations are not taken
- Pâtisserie & cakes from £3-4 (eating in) coffees & teas from £2-3 (eating in or taking out), plus a small daily menu of savory dishes from £5-10
A fusion that works
In late February, Mrs. LF and I went for a stroll in Primrose Hill. I noticed that there was a new shop that hadn't been there last time we were walking in the neighborhood, and my spidey-senses began tingling.
The place was called Lanka. It had a muted gray facade, and some beautiful pink potted plants neatly placed outside its shop front, immediately setting it apart. I peered in through the window and noticed that it the staff all seemed to be Japanese, but that the main thing on offer seemed to be some very French-looking pâtisserie and cakes. It looked very appetizing and inviting. Intrigued, we decided to step inside to see what this was all about.
It turned out that Lanka is indeed owned and run by a Japanese man. The proprietor, Chef Masayuki Hara, is originally from Japan and since moving to the UK has worked in some very prestigious kitchens, including the two Michelin starred Le Gavroche. He has worked with a number of chefs over the years as well, such as Antony Worrall Thompson and Richard Corrigan, to name a few. In the early part of the new millennia, he moved into private catering, working for an exclusive company catering to City executives, and has now set up his own high-end catering company. Besides the cafe, Chef Hara offers cookery classes, bespoke private dining, party catering and a range of made-to-order cakes and pâtisserie.
The cafe is very cute, always immaculately clean and the service is good once you can gain the staff members' attention, as they always seem to be busy helping someone, preparing something, or washing up. Chef Hara has been there himself on each of our visits, and I believe it is always a good sign when the owner is present, especially in such an intimate neighborhood place.
As we guessed from looking at the display from outside, Lanka does indeed specialize in French-style pâtisserie and cakes, many of which have a little twist, often with a Japanese infusion. Since first opening, they have gradually expanded their offering, and now have a small daily menu of savory dishes which are perfect for brunch, lunch or a mid-afternoon snack, as well as having expanded their drink range to include a range of iced tea cocktails (non-alcoholic and alcoholic). They use Monmouth Coffee beans and have an exclusive range of high-end teas (they are apparently the only ones to sell Expolanka Teas in the UK).
It is an inviting, fun and relaxing place to grab a quick bite, whether sweet or savory, and Chef Hara is a perfectionist, which is visible in everything they do. When you eat-in, your chosen slice of sweetness is presented beautifully, with a little dab of syrup or sauce, a side of their rich vanilla ice cream, and a few other tidbits, making for a very pretty plate every time (each sweet is dressed slightly differently, from what I've been able to make out). The coffees are made well and their hot chocolate is also good (even the infamous hot chocolate fiend @mathildecuisine gave it the thumbs up!). Their savory offerings are prepared with the same care and lovely presentation, and we really enjoyed our recent brunch there.
I have included some photos and brief descriptions of the different things we've had at Lanka over our many visits to give you a better idea of what they serve.
The green color certainly got our attention and we were curious to taste this interesting looking cake. The texture was very nice although the green tea flavor was fairly muted. The ever-finicky Mrs. LF said that she loves the flavor of green tea and wished it would have been more pronounced in this cake. I agreed with her and thought that while it was nice, it didn't deliver on the flavor that the color hinted it might have.
The classic lemon tart was also very nice and well made, though not earth-shattering. It's not a lemon tart with a difference, like the little Ottolenghi lemon and mascarpone tarts (probably the best ones I've ever had) or the fantastic classic lemon tarts from Clarke's, but it does the job if that's what you fancy.
This was a Japanese spin on the traditional bread & butter pudding and tasted very good. Having said that, on our most recent visit, Chef Hara had us taste another version of the bread & butter pudding, which had a lovely tartness to it provided by some sultanas and berries, and we both preferred that version – it was really special. It's this kind of interaction and passion that makes the place worth coming back to – there's always something different on offer.
The traditional pear charlotte was really excellent and full of the flavor of fresh pears. The consistency was also spot-on, and this one worked particularly well with the side of vanilla ice cream and a dab of acidity from the raspberry sauce.
Mrs. LF said that their Paris-Brest was "the real thing," although the cream itself is traditionally more of a praline-brown color and she prefers hers with slightly more hazelnut flavor. That said, she noted that the homemade puff pastry was very light and excellent. Although it is served with a blob of chocolate on the side (probably simply for decoration), she said she would never deflower her Paris-Brest with an alien ingredient – such a traditionalist, our Mrs LF!
I really enjoyed this passion fruit dessert and, in fact, preferred it to their lemon tart (which is usually one of my favorite desserts).
On our most recent visit, Mrs. LF sampled the Mont-Blanc, which we had looked at many times in the past but for some reason never ordered. It is a chestnut-based dessert and was fabulous, with the delicate flavor of chestnut being infused well throughout, which is not necessarily easy to achieve as chestnut is not a strong flavor and often doesn't come through well enough. At its summit was placed a whole chestnut, which is reminiscent marron glacé (a popular confection eaten in France around Christmas time), and there was a second one concealed within. This lent a very nice authenticity to the dessert, which we both really enjoyed.
The last time I was at Lanka, I sampled their rum baba, which is one of the best I've had – even Mrs. LF agreed. Everything was in perfect balance. It was just moist enough, but not too much; the flavor of the rum was noticeable, but not overly so; and the ratio of cream to soft cake was just as it should be. I really enjoyed Chef Hara's version of this classic dessert, after having been let down many a time in the past with inferior versions in restaurants of all sorts. As Mrs. LF pointed out, even if you don't particularly like rum baba, it just looks so d*mn good, it's quite difficult not to want to try some!
Mrs. LF really enjoyed her recent brunch. The eggs were nice and creamy and dotted with chopped chives, the smoked salmon had been dressed with capers, and the salad leaves were particularly fresh – something to note given it was a Bank Holiday Monday (when we've often had issues with fresh salad leaves in restaurants). As you can see, the portion was also very generous, and it was served with some freshly baked bread on the side.
My cheese omelette was also very nice, presented in a classic style. The homemade baguette was particularly good (especially the crust) and I also enjoyed the little side salad, which had been just coated with dressing and well seasoned.
As noted above, the hot chocolate is particularly good, very rich and almost all chocolate with not too much milk. I will direct you to Mathilde Cuisine for any further enquiries, as she is the undisputed master in this arena.
Another thing I like about Lanka is that there is always something baking or being newly prepared, and Chef Hara is constantly experimenting with new flavor combinations. He often lets you sample things he is making to get your feedback, which is a lot of fun.
Personality goes a long way
Lanka is definitely a great addition to Primrose hill. The word 'Lanka' means 'island', which I think is fitting in this case as it represents its own little island of cuteness, deliciousness and individuality in this shabby-chic high street. Places like this, which are infused with not only the flavors of the owner's homeland but also their personality, are a dying breed and I love eateries like Lanka which break the monotony of higher-end chains such as Paul or Patisserie Valerie.
Although you may not feel like trekking all the way across town if you live on the opposite side of London, if you do happen reside in the general vicinity or are ever passing through, definitely stop by this delightful island of loveliness.
PS – Chef Hara has his own blog, which you may want to check out.
*Note: I have been to Lanka four times since it opened, mostly for sweets and coffee, but once for brunch.*


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[This Earth of Ours]
I see another leader from the so-called "Third World" has come under the whip of Luis Moreno Ocampo, the International Criminal Court (ICC) seeker, this time Muammar Ghaddafi of the Great Socialist Peoples' Libyan Arab Jamahiriyiya
along with two other Libyans.
They are accused of committing crimes against humanity by targeting civilians in a crackdown against rebels which of course has happened but what are we to expect when the Libyan tribes revolt, loot and try to overthrow a government, often with the backing of a foreign power in need of oil.
Rebels, in the case of Libya, have been seizing arms of all calibres from the government arms dumps and demonstrating to the world media that they intend to kill. As elsewhere in the developing world the conflict is based on "tribal maneuvering," something Luis Moreno Ocampo should consider but ignores, having no doubt failed in his duty to make a proper study of the history of the area before making demands that individuals appear before any international criminal court.
None of us like these "tribal" --actually mini nations-- disputes but they are only settled by the leaders themselves as they have been for hundreds of years. I have in the old days come across many examples of this wisdom of talk in Africa, perhaps one of the greatest was on the banks of the Nile under the branches of a very old tree designated for "tribal" --mini nation-- settlements where I watched a nation's president sitting before scores of traditional elders leading them by talk and wisdom out of a potential inter-ethnic massacre.
This is the right road well known amongst the Developing World. Now, today, not only do we have the nation's leadership being dragged away by foreigners into an alien European culture with no traditional "Baraza Tree" but we also have a British general , the head of his nation's army, suggesting that a greater killing force be used against Gadhafi's regime. I ask you, can this be executed without further civilian loss?
Luis Moreno-Ocampo tells us that Gadhafi's forces attacked civilians in their homes, shot at demonstrators with live ammunition, shelled funeral processions and deployed snipers to kill people leaving mosques. Based on this intelligence he no doubt hopes to put a rope around the neck of Libya's leader.
It is a flawed intelligence: both sides, the government and rebels, are wounding and killing one another in equal numbers. As I have said it is "tribalism" at its worst and it is dialogue that is needed more than anything else just as it was, and still is, in Iraq.
The Developing World has shouted out from the roof tops over and over again: "Leave these matters to us!" but seemingly what matters is not the welfare of those struggling day by day to survive on a cup of tea and one slice of bread and butter, but those whose vastly more comfortable lives depend on oil.
Make no mistake there is no comfortable future without oil and the powers that be, I am told, do not intend to leave this vital resource with people still involved in "tribalism" such as, for example, the people of Southern and Northern Sudan.
We are seeing the horrors the need for oil is creating with the US announcement last week that energy exploration in Alaska has always been a tough choice between preserving one of the planet's last great areas of pristine wilderness and the potential for huge profits to be made from development.
That the peace of Alaska and the destruction of its wild life, one of the glories of our beautiful planet, is to be sacrificed to
enable a small and wealthy proportion of the world's people to suck up its "black gold" and continue with their privileged life style for a paltry hundred years or so more will be to future generations a truly unforgivable crime.
And in those hundred years what an irony that modern weaponry such as the pilotless killing machines that are at present weekly killing innocent civilians will be so advanced as to end the planet as we know it.
Anyway, the warrants issued are not expected to have any immediate impact on the war in Libya but they could make it harder for the recipients to end the conflict by going into exile. Because the Security Council ordered the ICC investigation, all U.N. member states would be obliged to arrest Gadaffi and his named supporters if they ventured into their territory.
This certainly prevents the African Union taking part in talks, but who cares in the western world? Moreno-Ocampo tells the world he has the evidence of the Libyan leader issuing orders, his son organizing the recruitment of mercenaries and their Chief of Intelligence carrying out tortures; no doubt the same ones as used in the USA and by other western nations.
What we are seeing is a nation in a position of stalemate with both sides claiming gains one day only to find a reverse the next and way up in the skies modern aircraft with an opportunity to test out new bomber inventions using up their countries' hard earned taxes on air strikes said to be supporting rebels.
The killing will continue now that the days of the Banyan tree and "tribal wisdom" have long gone. The industrial world can
sell their weapons, see them used and then come back another day to sell replacements. Any hope that such a killing cycle can be stopped?
Well, there is always the International Criminal Court.
Bob Astles now lives in Europe. He was an advisor to the late Ugandan dictator Idi Amin Dada; the 2006 Oscar best Actor Award movie "The Last King of Scotland," with Forest Whitaker, is loosely based on Astles life in Uganda.
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Can't Drive Won't – Segway
For his first challenge, set by best friend driver Jim, Tall Tim faces learning how to drive a X2 Off Road Segway. Instructed by Andrew Lewis at Hi 5 Events in Reading, Tim attempts to master the Segway through various training exercises, as well completing a Lakeside Treasure Hunt and timed slalom speed course. Will he succeed or fall flat on this … face. This is a full 22.30 min programme, filmed in the classic Can't Drive Won't style, complete with the humorous t-shirts and the classic Star Wars Easter Egg.


text:
Letter: Governor has served Connecticut well
With steady leadership, Gov. Malloy and Lt. Gov. Wyman have made the tough decisions to put Connecticut on a path of progress. Three and a half years ago, Connecticut faced a $3.67 billion deficit -- one of the worst per-person deficits in the nation -- tens of billions of dollars in debt, minimal net job growth over the past 20 years and dim prospects for the future.
Today, Connecticut's budget is in the green. With three straight years of surpluses, nearly $400 million has been added to the Rainy Day Fund, while $11.6 billion in debt has been eliminated. Our books are balanced. Before Gov. Malloy and Lt. Gov. Wyman took office, private sector employment had plummeted, with unemployment reaching 9.3 percent. Today, more than 55,000 private sector jobs have been created and unemployment is at a five-year low.
Gov. Malloy has also worked to fix local roads, rail and bridges. That includes holding Metro-North accountable for improved service, a transportation budget that is 165 percent of what it was in 2010, and one of the largest transportation capital budgets in Connecticut history. Further, over the last two years, Gov. Malloy has increased town aid road grants by $120 million and funding for the local bridges program by $25 million.
Gov. Malloy has protected aid to cities and towns, preventing local property tax increases, and empowering mayors and first selectmen with options -- and he will not shift budget burdens to the local level.
I urge everyone to join me and support our governor for re-election.
Debbie Ice


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Maya Rudolph is long past being a Bridesmaid, she's going to a mom again!
The funnylady is reportedly pregnant with her fourth child by writer/director Paul Thomas Anderson, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
So the Up All Night actress is a sure bet to be up all night in real life when the new baby joins their three other kids Pearl, 7, Lucille, 3, and Jack, only 19 months.
U.S. & World
Ruh-Roh! Christina Applegate leaving Up All Night
Word of Maya's pregnancy came out after sources say she informed NBC she's expecting.
Ironically, the happy family news comes with the network contemplating ending Rudolph's mom-centric sitcom after series star Christina Applegate's exit and a plans for a one-episode "reboot" of the show reportedly being stalled.
Copyright E! Online


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Okay, so maybe you didn't win a Prime in any of our other giveaways. Well, guess what? Here's another chance!
So, what's the occasion? Only the release of one of the best games ever come to Android: The Dark Meadow: The Pact. I'm completely obsessed with this game right now - it's incredible. Don't believe me? Check out my review.
Since NVIDIA and Phosphor Games (the creator of The Dark Meadow) are just as excited about this game as we are, they decided to give us a Prime and dock to give away to one lucky reader, along with a $25 AMEX gift card to go towards purchases in the Play Store (like more gold or sun coins for TDM).
Johnnyone56 from Amsterdam- his email bounced, moving on to the next guy
- Jeff Packard from Kansas
Congratulations - you will be contacted for your information in the near future!
Everyone else - keep participating and stay tuned to Android Police so that you don't miss our upcoming giveaway announcements. You can follow AP on Twitter, Facebook, Google+, and RSS.
Phosphor Games and The Dark Meadow
So, what's this Dark Meadow thing I keep babbling about? It's an ultra-creepy action horror game from Phosphor Games that just landed in the Play Store today. Here's the gist of it: you wake up in an abandoned, dilapidated hospital with no idea of how you got there.
What's more, is that this particular hospital seems to a breeding ground to some pretty terrifying... things. Armed only with a crossbow and a shiv of sorts, you have make your way through this terrifying endeavor to figure out how to get out.
The Tegra Zone
Thanks to NVIDIA's quad-core Tegra 3 '4-plus-1' superchip (four regular cores, one battery-saving ninja core), Phosphor was able to add textures and elements into The Dark Meadow that aren't available in other versions of the game (*cough* iOS *cough*), and it looks fantastic.
Since Tegra-optimized games often offer a better experience over their non-Tegra siblings, NVIDIA put together a nice way to find them all in one place: enter the Tegra Zone.
The Tegra Zone is a site and companion app that makes it easy to find Tegra-optimized games and apps for your device. This is where you'll find The Dark Meadow, along with other favorites like Shadowgun THD and Siegecraft THD. Make no mistake, though - this isn't another appstore, simply a place to find awesome Tegra-optimized content.
What You Get
I see you there, reading this section - like you don't already know what you get if you win. I mean, honestly, if you didn't see it in the title of the post, would you have clicked? I didn't think so.
It's okay, though - I'll humor you: if you win, you get a 32GB Amethyst Gray ASUS Transformer Prime with dock and a $25 pre-paid AMEX card for use in the Play Store (act surprised or it ruins the fun)!
I'm sure you already have the Prime's specs memorizes, but just in case you don't, here they are:
- 10.1-inch 1280x800 Super IPS display
- Quad-core Tegra 3 4-plus-1 processor
- 32GB built-in storage
- 8MP rear shooter, 1.2MP front camera
- Android 4.0
And of course, let's not forget about the dock. It basically turns the tablet into an Android-powered netbook and gives it some extra juice.
How to Win
Did you watch the video up there? If not, then go do that now. If you did, good for you. Keep reading.
To enter, simply drop us a line in the comments telling us what from the teaser video makes you the most excited for The Dark Meadow. That's it!
The contest begins immediately and will run until Tuesday, May 1st at 11:59 PM PST, after which the winner will be chosen at random and notified soon thereafter.
Good luck!
For everyone out there who can't get enough Dark Meadow in their lives, here are a couple of wallpapers for your tablet:


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|STS-133 Shuttle Mission Imagery
high res (1.9 M) low res (81 K)
|JSC2011-E-024251 (8 March 2011) -- Big Head Todd & The Monsters play live in Mission Control for STS-133 crew's wakeup song. The song received the most votes in NASA's Top 40 song contest receiving 722,662 votes (29 percent of the 2, 463,774 total). It was originally written as a tribute to the space program and workforce. The live performance was the first time a shuttle crew has been awakened live from Mission Control, Houston.
Curator: JSC PAO Web Team | Responsible NASA Official: Amiko Kauderer | Updated: 11/13/2012


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We made a trip to the El Centro for warmer clothes. I found myself a pair of sweats that I lived in the rest of the nights. I wore two pair of socks and dressed in layers. There was no sleeping naked for us -- it was much too cold. We even had to break down and ask for extra blankets by the second or third night, I can't remember which.
We had a really great time! The best time in Mexico, yet. We were so overdue. We just soaked it up and enjoyed every minute. I was ready to come home, but I wasn't dying to get back, like I usually am. It was just that good. Frank said it well, "There was a point I thought about not coming back and just opening up a little B&B on the beach... That's how good it was...". We also toyed with a little taco truck, there is no where in Xpu-ha to have a cheap bite.
I'll share details once I sort through the photos. There are 500. Kinda crazy since we really only left the beach to eat. With views like this, can you blame us?


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Thursday, November 5, 2009
Stand Gaming
Posted by kurokei at 1:01 PM 0 comments
Later then we went to Springfield to get some food. Yes, it's related to The Simpsons. Lol
The environment is good, there's only 1 prob.
I order Honeydew juice. As my drink came, I took a few sip. Then I realized there's a bug in my drink.
Ok, so I took it out, pretend that I didn't see it.
But as I stir the drink. More and more dead bugs appear.
At first I didn't want to make such a big fuss by calling the waitress over but I had took out more than 5 bugs and I can't take it anymore. So I asked to change for a new 1.
There's a tarot reader too, but I wasn't in a mood to do so so maybe next time. =)
The bug-filled drink still make me go ugh. In my mouth. Ugh.
Posted by kurokei at 10:36 AM 1 comments
(This was from yesterday. I couldn't post my blog post through when I'm at home.)
So yeah, the line's down at my house so I decided to go to the cyber cafe.
Well guess what? The line's down there too! Damn.
So I played Harry Potter instead. Fuk. It was fun though. Lol.
Oh and my sis was wanting to play half life but it hanged. So the eye stayed there. Lol.
Posted by kurokei at 10:26 AM 0 comments
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Chicken with harissa & tomatoes
Nutrition and extra info
Nutrition: per serving
- kcal184
- fat4g
- saturates1g
- carbs2g
- sugars2g
- fibre1g
- protein34g
- salt0.41g
- 4 skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tsp harissa (Belazu's rose harissa is really full-flavoured)
This hot, aromatic paste made from chilli and assorted spices and herbs is spicy and…
- 1 tsp olive oil
Olive oilol-iv oyl
Probably the most widely-used oil in cooking, olive oil is pressed from fresh olives. It's…
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Closely related to marjoram, of which it is the wild equivalent, oregano has a coarser, more…
- 250g pack cherry tomatoes
- handful olives (we used kalamata)
Widely grown all over the Mediterranean, where they've been cultivated since biblical times…
Heat oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6. Put the chicken into a medium roasting tray, then rub with the harissa, oil and oregano.
Cover with foil and roast for 5 mins, then remove the foil and add the cherry tomatoes and olives to the tray. Roast for 10 mins more until the tomato skins start to split and the chicken is cooked through. Serve with boiled new potatoes


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Gordon Tullock
New edition
Edited and with an introduction by Peter Kurrild-Klitgaard
In this classic introductory public choice text, Gordon Tullock analyses the motives and activities of politicians, civil servants and voters. Government 'servants' can most likely be assumed to be pursuing their own interests, just like those in the private sector, although, given the coercive power of the state, the effects can be far from benign. The incentive structures present within public institutions mean that government action may well fail to improve economic welfare and frequently has results different from those intended.
The application of the 'economic theory of politics' effectively undermines the market failure approach to government policymaking, which relies on the assumption that benevolent and far-sighted governments are capable of clearing up the perceived failings of private markets.
This new edition includes a reflection by Gordon Tullock and commentaries by Peter Kurrild-Klitgaard, Charles K. Rowley, Stefan Voigt and Michael C. Munger. These contributions consider the impact of the original publication of The Vote Motive in 1976. Thirty years later, with public-sector bureaucracies retaining substantial control over large swathes of the economy, it is clear that policymakers still have much to learn from Tullock's seminal work. 'The Vote Motive has done more to spread the ideas of the public choice school than any other single work.'


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I have a confession. I'm a hoarder. No, not one of those crazy cat ladies you'd find on A&E, but close. Thanks to digital storage space becoming more affordable, I save nearly every photo or video that has crossed my desk.
Organized? Yes. Useless? Most definitely.
As the Executive Producer of DRIVE, I'm also responsible for every minute of footage published on our little YouTube channel. In 2012, we published over 130 hours of content, which racks up to nearly 45 TBs of raw footage.
Back to my hoarding....
One folder I keep on my desktop is of inspirational videos I've found from other producers and directors. There's some really good shit out there these days and in my folder, you'd find everything from Rendezvous to Truth in 24 and Speed Tribe. Not only that, I even collect non-automotive related videos like Samsara and Baraka.
With the help of the boys over at Jalopnik setting up Kinja, I will be routinely posting videos and/or images I have found inspirational and motivated from the automotive industry. The first, Jeff Zwart's 2011 GMC commercial spot, Splash.


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- Optional matching pocket square can be added
Zion's Bow Ties was born out of my passion and desire to see the world changed through people of all walks of life. I started designing bow ties in 2014 and named my company after my son Zion as an inheritance for him. I must say that I simply love bow ties and the way the atmosphere changes wherever I go while wearing them. I believe bow ties are a finishing touch to any gentleman's or ladies' style of dress and an unspoken code that is translated through his or her body language.
After retiring from the U.S. Army, I now mentor young boys at my kid's schools. I teach them how to be a gentleman, even though at times they may have negative experiences. Our vision is to provide positive influence to change the world and it must start with our young and older men. Currently I am experiencing an overflow of special request for my handcrafted work and I am amazed with the transformations in the lives of so many men, women and families. Come join us in this Great Movement of Raising Kings & Queens and please do stay Bow Tie Fresh.


text:
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Home > Products > Locking Nuts > Full Thread 3 Thorn Insert Nut
|Payment Type:
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Full Thread 3 Thorn Insert Nut
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Dark and Stormy Cocktail Recipe
The classic highball as served at The Spotted Pig in New York. Lime juice cuts the sweetness of ginger beer and Gosling's Rum while heightening the ginger's sharp bite.
- Yield:makes 1 cocktail
- Active time: 2 minutes
- Total time:2 minutes
- 3/4 ounce fresh lime juice, from 1 to 2 limes
- 4 ounces ginger beer
- 2 ounces Gosling's Black Seal Rum
Fill a highball glass with ice. Add, in layers, the lime juice, then the ginger beer, then the Goslings. Serve with a straw.


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The 50th Super Bowl will be held in the San Francisco Bay Area.
NFL owners have voted Tuesday for the 49ers' new stadium as host of the 2016 game. That facility in Santa Clara, Calif., is due to open for the 2014 season.
San Francisco beat out South Florida, which was stymied in its bid to stage an 11th Super Bowl when the Florida Legislature did not support financing to renovate Sun Life Stadium.
U.S. & World
The 2017 Super Bowl will be held in Houston, which also beat out Miami for that game.
The only previous Super Bowl played in northern California was at Stanford Stadium in 1985.
Houston hosted the 2004 NFL championship game.
Earlier Tuesday, owners approved a $200 million loan for stadium construction in Atlanta.
Copyright AP - Associated Press


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Simon van Kempen — otherwise known as the weird, foreign, and rainbow-adorned husband of The Real Housewives of New York's Alex — has officially joined the gang of Bravo reality stars who've crossed over into the world of music-making.
But before Simon goes ahead and pats himself on the back for his cross-genre nightmare, let's take a second to recall the other horrors this exclusive club has birthed:"Money Can't Buy You Class," "Tardy For the Party," and "Google Me." In other words, Simon's single is just as terrible as the rest — prompting us to wonder if Andy Cohen has a music producer on speed-dial for whenever one of his reality minions mention the slightest desire to make music.


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Added July 28, 2018:
My YouTube channel is here. I don't think I linked it at all in the opening post originally, but it should probably be the first thing in this thread.
Original post:
I haven't been around in... ten years, it looks like. I don't really have an explanation for this, other than that my interest in video games often waxes and wanes; most recently, I went through about a four-year period where I don't think I played a game at all. I can't recall what finally spurred me to click on the Aleph One logo for the first time in years, but I've been playing fairly consistently for about a month.
Which brings me to my purpose in making this thread. The Marathon Vidmaster's Challenge website is a wonderful resource for those of us who want to learn how to suck less. There are a ton of strategies for the levels in these videos that I definitely would never have thought up on my own. But watching these videos is... well, not always convenient. Generally, you have to go through a number of steps just to get the videos to play - and for that matter, you have to have access to a computer just to watch them.
This channel seems to have been started with the intention of putting the films on YouTube, but it didn't get anywhere close to uploading all of them, and apparently hasn't been updated in two years - and for that matter, the video quality isn't always great in the videos that are there. The oldest ones - I watched Greg K.'s play-through of "IIHARL" - are probably 240p, or maybe 360p. Some of the others are much higher resolution, but don't look like they're using all of the Aleph One add-ons.
So I've gotten it into my head that I want to digitise the entire Vidmaster's Challenge site (or at least as much of it as possible) and put it up on YouTube - and because I don't tend to want to do things half-assed, I want to add at least the Tempus Irae vid films as well (except the "Repository" ones because who cares. And if there are similar sites for Eternal, Rubicon, Phoenix, etc., I'll probably want to add the films from those, too). But before I go through all the trouble of putting them all up, I want to be certain I'm not using display settings that piss people off. It'd be better if I only had to do each of these once, since I have to watch each film at 1x speed in order to encode it into .mov format.
I did a proof of concept video with Dr John Sumner's play-through of "Ain't My Bitch" from Tempus. I made it on a MacBook Pro; QuickTime tells me it recorded in 2560x1600 resolution. I used the hi-res textures that came with the AO version of Tempus, and I added the "Shots Fired" add-on as well. (I can't recall whether I also added the hi-res landscapes, and it doesn't entirely matter; I'm going to redo this one video for reasons I'll describe shortly.) It also has liquid transparency and all the other goodies that have been added to the game. The idea is: it's 2018; even if these films were recorded some two decades ago, I might as well use the appearance the game has now.
But before I go through and do all these films, I want to know, first, if this is going to piss people off; and secondly, if I should go further. IIRC, there are hi-res monster sprites for all the Infinity monsters as well. Should I add those? I'm not sure if I like them, but I might get used to them if I see them more. Infinity has a new HUD that doesn't cover the bottom third of the screen, and this isn't currently added to Tempus by default. Should I add that? Should I go further with add-ons? What should I add?
I'm going to redo Dr Sumner's "AMB" play-through in any case, because I mostly made it as a proof-of-concept to ensure it was possible, and the game playback lagged in a few places. Next time I record one of these, I'll make sure I quit everything else on my MacBook but Marathon and QuickTime; I think it'll work fine if I do that. I'll probably start doing these in earnest in a week or two at the latest after seeing what people say.
Of course, some of the films from both the Vidmaster and Nardo sites appear to be missing, so I won't be able to digitise the complete collection. I also haven't been able to get some of them to work correctly. I haven't tried anywhere near all of them, but the "Poor Yorick" vid tip says I'm missing the map it was recorded on, and the "Aye Mak Sicur" tip just quits without playing anything. I'm not sure if this is a problem on my end; StuffIt/BinHex archives may just be finicky. I also haven't tested M1 films at all yet. The FAQ thread, if I'm understanding the later posts correctly, appears to indicate something about M1's source having been released and AO having been updated accordingly, but can AO play M1 films yet? If not, I'll presumably have to figure out PPC emulation on an Intel Mac, but this is a task I'll worry about later.
Apart from what visual settings to use, I guess my other question is which films people would want encoded first. My instinct leads me to want to encode entire sets of complete playthroughs of a given game in one batch. So I'd try to do all of Jim Mitchell's films of one game (or the entire trilogy) at once, then go onto another player's films. However, it's also possible people might want to see this done level-by-level (I can imagine a lot of people might want the "Acme Station" films to get priority, for instance), and a third possibility is that people might want some combination of the above - or something else entirely.
My proof-of-concept video will be at https://youtu.be/QjamUvqG8vE. YT says it has 2 minutes of processing left.
Anyway, feedback will be much appreciated; I'll probably start this project in earnest soon. It'll certainly take awhile, probably several months; I'd like to have it done by the end of the year, but I can't promise this. I'll have to encode each video at roughly real time, so beyond the time involved, it'll probably take some patience to complete. I'll probably also have much more on my plate starting around August.
ETA: Looks like I'll have to redo this either way, because it doesn't have sound. I'm not sure what the issue with that is; I'll troubleshoot it tomorrow. It also currently only displays in 360p, though I think that's because it's a recent upload. If it doesn't at least have 1080p by tomorrow, I'll look into that too.


text:
Domestic Shipping Methods and Estimated Transit Times
If you select 2-day shipping, there will be 1-day processing and 2 days for shipping. Please account for that when planning.
World Wide Shipping
Tango Hotel ships anywhere in the World using USPS. Please note import/duty fees are not included in the shipping costs.
Orders Placed Over the Weekend:
Orders placed on Saturday and Sunday will begin processing the following Monday. Orders placed on Federal Holidays, regardless of day or time, will begin processing on the following business day.


text:
Saturday, 28 April 2007
Breaking News: "Genuine" absinthe coming to the USA?
Ted Breaux of Jade is behind this new product, Lucid Absinthe, and excerpts from the NYT follows:-
"Mr. Gurfein (of the US distribution company) asked Mr. Breaux whether he could produce an absinthe that would pass regulatory muster with American authorities — meaning that it would not contain thujone. Mr. Breaux said that would be fairly easy ...
Still, Mr. Breaux knew that removing thujone entirely might harm the taste. "I had to get a handle on the whole thujone issue without compromising the character and the flavor of the drink," he said. To accomplish this, Mr. Breaux blended the grand wormwood with green anise and sweet fennel from Europe, instead of using more-affordable imports from East Asia. Using herbs from Europe, absinthe's native continent, he said, gives the drink an earthier essence.
Mr. Breaux also had to keep the American palate in mind while developing Lucid. "In the U.S., anise is a sort of a strange flavor," he said. "We don't get a lot of exposure to it." So Mr. Breaux made sure that Lucid had a slightly cleaner, crisper taste than its European peers."
The Lucid FAQ states: "Lucid contains a full measure of Grande Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)," while US Customs and Border Protection state: "The importation of Absinthe and any other liquors or liqueurs that contain Artemisia absinthium is prohibited." It will be interesting to see an explanation for this apparent contradiction! From the forum discussions, it seems to be that these are Customs "guidelines," based on their interpretation of FDA regulations. Hiram comments on this point on the Wormwood Society:-
"Customs doesn't make the laws, it only enforces those set by other agencies. Those customs guidelines were written with the (as it turns out, mistaken) assumption that anything with Aa in it would violate the FDA's no-thujone rule, as would anything with the word "Absinthe" on the label. The FDA specifically permits Artemisia species as long as there's no thujone detected by the method they prescribe; there is no statute specifically prohibiting Aa that I have found." (Aa = Artemisia absinthium).
Other companies have developed "absinthes without thujone" in the past, notably the brand Absente (available in USA without thujone and in other markets with thujone). Its thujone-free status comes from its use of a different wormwood source: Southern Wormwood. The absinthe community has been dismissive about Absente but will probably be more interested in Lucid.
Personally I am supportive of anything that helps get the right kind of absinthe into the USA and this seems at the very least a good step in the right direction.
Read what other real absinthe lovers have to say about this on Fée Verte
and the Wormwood Society.
Click here for the full story in the New York Times; click for the Lucid website.
A suivre!
12 comments:
- Un Peu Loufoque said...
Well gosh et zut Alan, I really thought it was still a banned substance, thank you for the education!! Does it taste like Pernod?
Yours un peu loufoque !
- 30 April 2007 at 18:39
- Alan said...
I can't comment on the taste of the absinthe referred to in this post because I haven't had it yet.
Real absinthe, primarily from France or Switzerland, is more like a cocktail of tastes, combining anise, wormwood, fennel and several other plants. In contrast, Pernod is more one dimensional. If you like Pernod, you'll love real absinthe.
- 30 April 2007 at 18:48
- Un Peu Loufoque said...
Zut Alan I really thought that it was banned !Ah well nice to be taught new things soemtimes ! Does it taste like Pernod I wonder?
Glad you liked the blog.not quite as informative as yours tho!
- 30 April 2007 at 18:58
- Un Peu Loufoque said...
Ah no not a great fan of le Jaune !
- 30 April 2007 at 18:59
u try the Kruts Karport absinthe from Denmark? do you like it?
- 1 May 2007 at 14:32
- Alan said...
I have not tried it. Do you think I should?
- 1 May 2007 at 14:37
Kruts? No, dont waste yr lips
- 7 May 2007 at 08:16
I saw a good vid at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZa5ezt2ojI called Forbidden Fruit: The Absinthe Drinker about a retired brain surgeon who drinks verte suisse. Talks about the active ingedients and shows the ritual.
- 20 December 2007 at 21:34
- Unknown said...
If not real wormwood its not "absinthe" just strong alcohol. I will keep ordering La Fee from across the pond. Faux wormwood or southern wormwood will not give the "effect".
- 22 December 2007 at 00:43
- Alan said...
There is no reason to suppose that Lucid is any less of an absinthe than La Fée. They both have less than 10 ppm of thujone. Neither are based on Southern Wormwood.
And if you believe what is said on one of the absinthe forums, La Fée may be one of the next absinthes coming to the USA.
- 22 December 2007 at 07:35
Has anyone heard of Le Tourment Vert?
- 25 January 2008 at 08:57
- Alan said...
There's a discussion about Tourment Vert here.
- 25 January 2008 at 19:25