Captain Hops' Adventures

Captain Hops has Moved

2006-10-15T11:10:00.000-04:00

You can find all new posts from Captain Hops at
www.captainhops.com!

Buying a New Car...

2006-07-22T14:49:00.000-04:00

I am buying a new car. It's a 2006 Honda Civic LX Sedan. I am using the technique outlined here: How to buy a new car for the lowest price. It seems like I got good quotes. I am just waiting for delivery now. It's been really smooth so far.

Anyone else have car-buying advice?

Technorati Tags: buying new cars, how to buy a car

Beer Haiku Daily Store Now Open!

2006-06-12T17:04:00.000-04:00

The Beer Haiku Daily Store is now open! Check out the clothing, clocks, mugs and stuff you can buy.

Most of the items have the image below printed on them. Some of them have the catchphrase, "Celebrate one of life's simple pleasures." on the back.

I hope you enjoy them. I may be adding some more designs (and beer flavors) in the future. Let me know if you have a preference or any other feedback.

And don't forget to visit the website: Beer Haiku Daily.

Cheers!

Check out the New Beer Haiku Daily site!

2006-03-03T16:51:00.000-05:00

My other site, Beer Haiku Daily, has moved to http://www.beerhaikudaily.com!

We are still serving up a new beer haiku every day of the year so make sure you stop by and join the fun.

4 Problems with Childrens Toys Today.

2006-02-05T11:07:00.000-05:00

My son's birthday party was yesterday. He's two. Because of this, I thought I would make a quick list of things that are wrong with childrens toys today. I have been stewing over this since Christmas, but the birthday presents finally put me over the edge.

Packaging - Is it really necessary to use so much, tape, plastic, wire ties, twist ties, and screws to keep a toy in the package? I mean, seriously, the toy won't even hold my son's attention for the amount of time it takes me to open the packaging. You shouldn't need tools to open a cardboard box.
Batteries - Are there any toy companies left that make toys that don't need batteries? I swore I would never say this next phrase, but... When I was a kid, we made our own noises for cars, trucks and trains.
Volume Control - For the love of God, would it kill toy companies to design volume control into a toy. These days, toys have only one volume level - excruciatingly loud.
On/Off Switch - You'd think this would be a no-brainer, but you would be shocked about how many toys do not have on/off switches. I need a break, dammit.

I guess the toy companies spent all their budgets on packaging material and didn't have enough money left over for bonus features like power buttons and volume control.

I am not sure what the solution is to this, a boycott might get the toy companies attention, but what do you get the kid instead? Socks? That's just mean. Books? Don't get me started on what's wrong with childrens books today. I am thinking about teaching my kid to bite, so he won't be as popular and will therefore get less gifts next year.

What do you think?

Technorati Tags: toys, toy companies

Governor's Cup for Brewing

2006-01-26T09:53:00.000-05:00

Governor Ehrlich awards Governor's Cup certificates to Maryland brewers. Best in show went to Clipper City's Heavy Seas Loose Cannon Ale.

The awards were sponsored by the Brewer's Association of Maryland in an attempt to increase the awareness of the many fine Maryland beers. While the brewers were down in Annapolis they were also hoping to do a little lobbying for a law that would make it easier for microbreweries to distribute their goods.

I hope their legislation efforts bear fruit, because Maryland has some mighty tasty beers and it is a shame that they can't get a wider audience because of Marylands archaic and counter productive distribution laws.

Technorati Tags: beer, brewing, Governor's Cup

Events: Anita Hagan's Art Opening

2005-12-20T11:10:00.000-05:00

What: Anita Hagan's new Art Exhibition
Where: 49 West Coffeehouse/Winebar/Gallery, Annapolis Maryland
Address: 49 West Street, Annapolis, MD 21401
When: Show runs January 8, 2006 - January 31, 2006

Opening Reception: Sunday, January 8, 2006, 5-8 pm (Refreshments will be served)

Summary: Anita uses her unique style to create rich, emotional block prints that are inspired by the natural world and the incredible human spirit. It's going to be a great show with over 30 pieces including linoleum block with watercolor, and acrylic paintings.

Tell your friends!

References: Anita Hagan
Technorati Tags: art, block print, gallery

Google Earth

2005-12-19T09:01:00.000-05:00

I may be late to the game here, but I just discovered Google Earth this week. Boy is it cool. I daresay it's the coolest thing that ever came out of the internet.

Really.

It's cooler than email and instant messaging.

It's cooler than shopping in your underwear.

It is a travelers dream.

Anyway, go out to earth.google.com and download the free version. It only works on Windows now, but they say they are working on a version for Mac. You need high speed internet access to use it properly, so don't try it on dial up.

Boy is it cool.

References: Google Earth
Technorati Tags: beer, Google, earth

Two interesting stories on Yahoo! news...

2005-11-15T15:16:00.000-05:00

Researchers: Hops in Beer May Be Healthy - Yahoo! News
Nursing Home keeps spirits up with own pub

The first story says that hops contains compounds that may slow or prevent cancer. It doesn't say that drinking beer prevents cancer. However, I think most of us understand intuitively that drinking a good hoppy beer can only make us healthier.

The second story says that a nursing home with a bar has happier residents and more visitors. I don't find that shocking at all. It's definately a feature I will be looking for in a nursing home when I grow old.

Cheers!

Technorati Tags: beer, news, hops

Reminder: Time to Order Your Holiday Photo Cards

2005-11-10T08:31:00.000-05:00

I know that Halloween has just passed and most of you haven't even started planning your Thanksgiving menu. However, I thought I would post a reminder that you should consider ordering your custom photo cards now so that you get them in time to send them out.

Photo cards are great, because they are festive and personal. I use them every year.

I use Shutterfly to turn my digitial pictures into prints and cards. I've tried a lot of services and found theirs to be the best quality and very speedy.

Cheers!

References: I prefer Shutterfly, but you may prefer Kodak
Technorati Tags: cards, photos, holidays

Events: Barry Beach's Gallery Show

2005-11-04T08:11:00.000-05:00

What: Barry Beach's installation: Transitions - Transporting Water
Where: Buckley Center Gallery, University of Portland
When: October 24, 2005 - November 17, 2005
Hours: M-F 8:30am - 8:00pm; Sat. 8:30am - 4:00pm
Address: 5000 N. Willamette Blvd., Portland, OR 97203

Sorry I didn't get this out sooner, but I just found out about it. Barry Beach has a new installation at the Buckley Center Gallery. It's called Transitions: An Installation Transporting Water. It's a very unique work with pumps, valves adn tubing moving water troughout the gallery. Check it out!

References: Buckley Center Gallery at University fo Portland
Technorati Tags: art, gallery, transitions

Article on Sculptor Matt Proctor

2005-11-03T08:09:00.000-05:00

NW Drizzle, the art, music and culture e-zine, has done an article on sculptor Matt Proctor. We recently wrote a post about Melt Modern, a collaboration between Matt and his wife Aixé. In case you wanted a second opinion you should check out the article.

References: NW Drizzle
Technorati Tags: art, sculpture

Haiku Slugfest at b1-66er's archipelago

2005-11-02T08:48:00.000-05:00

A battle between the titans of haiku is underway at Haiku Slugfest at b1-66er's archipelago.

VA Vegan of Fuh-Ku
faces off against
B1-66er of B1-66er's archipelago

Each day from November 1-7, 2005, these verbal gladiators will present their opponent with 2 haiku challenges. Each day, they must come up with 2 haiku that meet the challenge. The referree's are JDiego of Haikus from Hell fame and Sarah from Office Girl Haiku.

I will make appearances in the comments section, offering commentary in haiku form.

Ready to rumble
wordsmiths gird loins for battle
only one will win

Technorati Tags: haiku, slugfest, haiku slugfest

Events: Anita Hagan's Gallery Show

2005-11-01T08:59:00.000-05:00

What: Gallery show featuring the artwork of Anita Hagan
Where: Gallery Ornato in Washington DC
When: Opening Reception November 12, 2005, show runs through November.
Address: 6925 Willow Street NW, 2nd floor, Suite 203, Washington, DC 20012
Phone: 202-545-1555

Summary: Gallery Ornato's November show features the artwork of Anita Hagan. Anita uses her unique style to create rich, emotional block prints that are inspired by the natural world and the incredible human spirit.

References: Anita Hagan
Technorati Tags: art, block print, gallery

Frommer's Guide: "Where to Stop and Where to Go"

2005-10-31T10:01:00.000-05:00

Frommer (the travel guide king) has released a new guidebook called, "Where to Stop & Where to Go: A Guide to Traveling with Overactive Bladder in the United States". It was written for people with a specific medical condition (OAB), but I think it will be extraordinarily useful for anyone that travels with kids.

Back when I was young single and stupid, I had certain rules on my road trips. One of them was, "Only one bathroom break every 300 miles." That rule doesn't work so well now that I have a family. In fact, I have had to shorten the mileage rule quite a bit. It's now down to about 50 miles. (Which also happens to be close to the total limit on road trips by car as well.)

You can get this 76 page boolet for free at: wheretostopwheretogo.com.

Technorati Tags: travel, oab, road trip

Photo: Fall Leaves

2005-10-19T19:13:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since I have posted any nice pictures. Here are some fall leaves from my backyard.

Picture taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.

My Blingo Friend Won and so did I!

2005-10-15T11:08:00.000-04:00

Just a couple weeks ago I mentioned that I had my first win with Blingo. It took 3 months but I won a $10 iTunes gift certificate for doing nothing but searching the internet using their site. Well this morning I logged in and discovered that that laugh riot Tickles Tapeworm out in Seattle won a $25 Visa Cash Card. Since I am the one that referred him, I won one too!

So who wants to play along now? Here's how:
1. Sign up with Blingo.
2. Search using their website or tool bar.
3. Invite your friends to join in.
4. Win on your own or when your friends win!

Unfortunately this is only available to US residents. Sorry world.

References: Blingo, and Tickles Tapeworm
Technorati Tags: Blingo

Events: Maryland Brewer's Oktoberfest

2005-10-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

What: Maryland Brewer's Oktoberfest
Where: Timonium Farigrounds - 2200 York Road, Timonium, MD 21093
When: Saturday, October 15, 2005 - Noon - 8:00pm and Sunday, October 16, 2005 - Noon - 6:00pm
Cost: $20 at the door which includes entertainment, exhibits, 6 beer tokens, and a souvenir mug.

Alright all you Maryland beer enthusiasts. It's time for the Maryland Oktoberfest at the Timonium Fairgrounds. Featuring music, crafts, activities and 60 types of beer.

Show your spirit. You will get three free beer tokens if you come in German attire. There are also contests for Miss Oktoberfest and Best Baltimore Beer Belly.

See you there!

References: Maryland Brewers Oktoberfest
Technorati Tags: beer, events, Oktoberfest

Melt Modern: Functional Art for your Home

2005-09-27T10:24:00.000-04:00

This is not for everybody
But that is a good thing, because not everyone can have this beautiful, unique, and functional art in their homes. Every piece is one-of-a-kind, hand crafted and in limited supply.

Matt Proctor the sculptor and Aixé Djelal of yummypurse as individuals are two of the most creative and talented artists around. In their own ways they are working to spread the vision that art should be a part of everyday life. As individual artists, they create work that ranges from the absurd and fanciful to the most immensly practical.

Matt's work has been featured at numerous galleries. Aixé has been highlighted on HGTV's Crafters Coast to Coast. Their house made the cover of Oregon Home magazine. Matt, Aixé and their house have all been showcased at various times in stories in the Oregonian.

Now they are combining their numerous talents to create one-of-a-kind functional and decorative art for the home, garden and commercial spaces. Melt Modern is the name of their new collaboration. Check out some of their creations.

Like the look but don't see what you want? Contact them and see what they can do for you. They love working with people to create the perfect pieces that match the personality of the customer and the space.

References: Melt Modern
Technorati Tags: art, sculpture, decor, furniture

I won with Blingo!

2005-09-26T09:40:00.000-04:00

I was a skeptic but now I believe. Today, about 3 months after signing up, I won my first prize with Blingo. I won a free movie ticket, but was given the option of taking a $10 iTunes gift certificate instead. I chose the iTunes, because a free movie ticket will still cost me $30 in baby sitting. Either way I am impressed that it finally happened.

How did I do it?
1. I registered with Blingo.
2. I used Blingo search instead of Google search. (Blingo uses Google's search engine so I got the same results.)
3. I lived my life and did my searches normally.
4. I won!

Sign up now! Then get your friends to sign up. When they win, you win the same prize.

Blingo gives away iPods, Netflix subscriptions, Sony Playstations, movie tickets and Visa gift cards. Perhaps, I will win one of the bigger prizes soon, but even if I don't $10 isn't bad for doing nothing.

Pretty cool!

Technorati Tags: Blingo, Google, iTunes

Update: I just found out: You must be 18 years old and a legal resident of the United States to win a prize.

5 Boring Bits of Financial Advice

2005-09-23T11:40:00.000-04:00

Normally, I write about fun stuff that is cheap or free and occasionally about the simple luxury that can be enjoyed as a treat. However, recently I learned that some of my friends and coworkers don't live within their means and have no concept of savings.

This shouldn’t have been shocking to me because I know that the American savings rate is now 0% and the average American owes their first born in credit card debt. But I always thought that those statistics were skewed by stupid people. These people, my friends, seem smart. What are they thinking?

Anyway, it really started to bother me, so I made a list of 5 boring things you can do to keep your financial house in order. There’s nothing sexy or new about any of this stuff. Most of it is common sense and all of it is available at financial websites like the Motley Fool. I just figured I should post this stuff here, because obviously some people don’t go to financial sites and haven’t really thought about managing their finances.

Disclaimer: I am not a financial adviser and I don’t play one on TV. These are some things that I do. They work for me, but they require discipline. They probably won't make you rich. I am not rich, but I am happy.

Live below your means

Make a budget and stick to it

Track where you spend your money (it may surprise you).

Find ways to cut back and save. ($20 a week is $1040 a year. If you can find a way to save $20 a week you’ve given yourself a $1000 a year raise.)

Save money for known and unknown expenses.

Pay yourself first (use paycheck deductions and auto savings plans)

Build a liquid emergency fund (cash not beer)

Build a long term tax deferred retirement fund.

Don’t borrow money (for stupid stuff)

Always take guaranteed free money.

If your company matches your 401(k) contributions, it’s free money. You must take advantage of it. Contribute enough to get the maximum company match. Only contribute more if the investment choices in the 401(k) are diverse and reasonably priced. Otherwise invest the rest of your retirement savings in a tax deferred IRA of your choice.

If you have the discipline, use a credit card that pays cash back. You must pay off the full balance each month or you should lose the credit card all together in favor of a debit card.

Boring (but simple) investment options

Invest in an S&P 500 index fund (always check the expense ratio and compare it to Vanguard)

I-Bonds at Treasury Direct. No commissions. As safe as the US Government. Inflation adjusted interest rates. Automatic savings programs. Nice tax rules. The government is borrowing money. Shouldn't they be borrowing from you?

Technorati Tags: personal finance, savings, money

How to Pour a Perfect Beer (in 3 seconds or less)

2005-09-20T14:26:00.000-04:00

How to Pour a Perfect Beer - Popular Science

Someone has invented the solution to one of life's most vexing problems: How to pour a perfect pint in only three seconds so that the beer line moves faster. TurboTab is a nifty little device that installs on existing draft beer dispensing systems. It is designed to prevent excess foam by decreasing the turbulence of pouring beer. The main benefits are faster pours and less waste. I think we can all agree that these are worthwhile goals. In addition, they claim that the beer tastes better than other competing "fast pour" technologies that use super cooling techniques.

Currently, they are selling this product to commercial enterprises like bars and pubs and concession stands at arenas, stadiums and festivals. They are working on a product for the home bar enthusiast which should be available in the next few months. Be assured that I will let you know about their availability as soon as I hear something.

Cheers!

Picture from Popular Science

Technorati Tags: beer, draft beer, bar equipment

Places: Hershey Park

2005-09-17T14:03:00.000-04:00

Roller Coaster at Hershey Park. Picture taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.

References: Hershey Park, My review of the Hotel Hershey,
Technorati Tags: Amusement Park, travel, roller coaster

Places: Hotel Hershey and Spa - Hershey, PA

2005-09-17T14:02:00.000-04:00

The Hotel Hershey. Picture taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.

I just returned from the Hotel Hershey in Hershey Pennsylvania and... Surprise! It was a lot of fun! I was a little skeptical about this trip. I had pictured a weekend of wandering around in a big chocolate commercial. I had visions of Oompa Loompa's rummaging through my bags. All of these turned out to be true, but in a good way. ;-)

First of all, it was close:
1.5 hours from Baltimore
2 hours from DC and Philly
3 hours from New York and New Jersey

Second, the Hotel Hershey is spectacular. It is old, classy, elegant and real. It was built during the depression with an unbelievable attention to detail. They recently expanded the Spa and you can simply relax in the lap of luxury after a long day at the park.

Third, the park was like being locked in a huge chocolate commerial, but that didn't make it any less fun. They have a lot of roller coasters all intertwined together. There are a lot of water rides to beat the heat. And on the day we went the crowds were not bad at all.

Finally, the story of Milton Hershey is actually interesting.

Anyway, I give it a thumbs up. Bring the kids... Or don't. Either way you will find lots to do and have fun.

References: The Hotel Hershey and Spa, Milton Hershey (a biography)
Technorati Tags: travel, Hershey, spa

Picture of Hops

2005-09-14T11:21:00.000-04:00

Last week someone got to my page searching for "picture of hops". I felt bad that I didn't have anything useful for them. I vowed to change that so here is a photo of our beloved hops. This is the thing that makes beer great.

Hops
Picture taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.

Yikes! Scorpion Mezcal.

2005-09-10T08:39:00.000-04:00

Now we've all had our share of Tequila. And most of us have had our share of Mezcal, too. Some of us have even dared to eat the worm at the bottom of the bottle. (A few of us more than once.)

But I have never seen anything like this before. You've gotta be pretty bad-ass to step up to the plate on this one.

Take a look:

Now in case you missed it, here is a close up of what is actually at the bottom of the bottle. That's not an agave worm, that's a scorpion! I guess we will see if I am as crazy as I used to be...

Comments anyone?

Events: Maryland Renaissance Festival!

2005-09-09T12:22:00.000-04:00

Maryland Renaissance Festival

Okay everyone, we're a couple weeks into the Maryland Renaissance Festival. If you've never been, this is some fun stuff. There's lots of stuff to see, do, eat and drink. It's fun for all ages. This is a great place to people-watch, but it is more fun to participate. Dress up and get into the spirit of things.

One of my favorite weekends is the Pirate Invasion Weekend. This year that happens on September 24 and 25. No matter when you go, don't miss Shakespeare's Skum.

See you there!

August:27, 28
September:3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25
October:1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23
Open from 10:00am - 7:00pm.
Open rain or shine.
For more information call: 1-800-296-7304.

New Brew: Deschutes Brewery - Hop Trip Pale Ale

2005-09-06T13:47:00.000-04:00

Deschutes Brewery

This looks great! Why did I move so far away? If anyone is in the Bend Oregon area for the release of this limited edition fresh hop ale, please have a pint for me! Don't forget to tell me what you think in the comments section.

Google Maps - New Orleans

2005-09-04T12:26:00.000-04:00

Google Maps - New Orleans

Check out the Google Maps of New Orleans. Then head over to the Red Cross web page and make a donation.

Thank you.

Please Help Hurricane Relief Efforts!

2005-09-01T09:30:00.000-04:00

Please donate what you can to the American Red Cross or any of the other charitable organizations involved in the Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. The destruction is unimaginable and the suffering is unbelievable. Please contribute what you can in the way of money, supplies, or volunteer time. Thank you.

Events: Maryland State Fair

2005-08-30T11:34:00.000-04:00

View from the top of the Ferris Wheel at the Maryland State Fair. Picture taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.

The Maryland State Fair is running at the Timonium Fair Grounds from August 26, 2005 - September 5, 2005. Bring the kids, it's a whole lot of fun.

Don't be Chicken. Go to the Fair.

2005-08-30T11:33:00.000-04:00

A chicken at the Maryland State Fair. Picture taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.

North Central Railroad Trail (Part 2)

2005-08-28T12:39:00.000-04:00

NCR Trail. Between Cockeysville and Sparks, Maryland. Picture taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.

Okay, So I packed my Rails-to-Trails book, loaded up the bike and the Quick N EZ Bike Trailer and hit the NCR Trail. It was beautiful. The trail is crushed limestone but very smooth. It was easy to ride with any type of a bike. You could even push a stroller if you were so inclined. I am told the trail gets muddy when wet, but on the day I went there was no rain in sight. We left from the Asheland parking area and headed north. We quickly encountered the Gunpowder falls river and we were never too far from it after that. The best part about the trail is that you are basically biking through a tunnel of foliage. It is mostly shade, but there is enough sun breaking through the leaves to make it beautiful and interesting.

North Central Railroad Trail

2005-08-24T11:04:00.000-04:00

I am planning on biking the NCR Trail with my son this weekend. It's been about 10 years since I have done it. I rediscovered the trail in a trail book put out by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. You can find other trails using their website TrailLink.com

Baltimore's Inner Harbor at Night

2005-08-18T10:11:00.000-04:00

Picture taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.

The Inner Harbor is beautiful in the fall. Book your flight to Baltimore today!

Hot! Hot! Hot! Baltimore Inner Harbor.

2005-08-17T11:46:00.000-04:00

Hot! Hot! Hot! Picture taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.

Last month there was a fire juggling spectacular at the Inner Harbor in Baltimore. I finally got around to sorting through the pictures and found this nice one of a 5-way torch juggling circle. Just so you know, it was a hot night without the fire.

Captain Bogg and Salty Play the Bite of Oregon

2005-08-09T09:59:00.000-04:00

Captain Bog and Salty play the Bite of Oregon!

Where: Portland's Tom McCall Waterfront Park
When: The food festival runs from August 12-14, 2005

Captain Bogg and Salty, the premier family pirate band, play on the Family Stage on Saturday at 7:00pm.

If you are not familiar with these guys, check out their CDs:
Bedtime Stories for Pirates
and Pegleg Tango

Pubs: Mick O'Shea's

2005-08-04T09:44:00.000-04:00

Mick O'Shea's

Looking for a good Irish pub in Baltimore? Try Mick O'Shea's. It's a classic bar with good food and beer plus they frequently have live entertainment including an open mic night.

328 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21201
410-539-7504

New Blog Traffic Exchange

2005-08-02T16:50:00.000-04:00

Other Blog Traffic Exchanges:
Traffic Builder
Blog Soldiers

Mirror Pond, Bend, Oregon

2005-07-31T10:33:00.000-04:00

Mirror Pond, Bend, Oregon. Picture taken with an old but reliable Kodak DC280.

Bend is a beautiful town in central Oregon. Mirror Pond is right in the center of town. There is a beautiful park on the bank of the pond. One of my favorite pale ales is named after this pond and brewed nearby. Get yourself down to Deschutes Brewery and Brewpub and order a pint of Mirror Pond Pale Ale for yourself.

He could use a beer!

2005-07-29T10:12:00.000-04:00

This picture was taken in Victoria, BC with an old but reliable Kodak DC280.

Beer Harmony

2005-07-27T06:55:00.000-04:00

You've seen all the matchmaking and dating services out there. You take a personality test and they promise to set you up with your soul mate. This one gives you a personality test and promises to match you up with the perfect beer!

It's hosted by DuClaws brewery, which makes some fine beers.

Have Fun!

References: DuClaw Brewing Company

Peaceful Flight

2005-07-22T14:02:00.000-04:00

A great blue heron on an early morning flight towards the Chesapeake bay.

Picture taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.

Event: Artscape - Baltimore

2005-07-20T17:35:00.000-04:00

Artscape 2005

Directions to the festival.

Schedule for all performing arts stages.

Here are some of the main stage acts:

Friday, July 22
Air Dance Bernasconi (aerial dance)
Air Dance Bernasconi (aerial dance)
Gregg Hatza Organization (jazz)
Morris Day & The Time (rhythm and blues)**
Boyz II Men contemporary (rhythm and blues)**

Saturday, July 23
Maria Broom and the Dance Girls of Baltimore (local youth dance)
Esthero (jazz/hip hop/soul)
The Crawdaddies (Cajun/zydeco)
Chris Glover (modern rock)
Lafayette Gilchrest & The New Volcanoes (jazz)
Vivian Green (rhythm and blues)
Q-Tip (hip hop)

Sunday, July 24
From Bebop to Hip Hop featuring Sankofa Drummers, Western High School Dance Team and Guardian: Preservation Dance Project
Archie Edwards Heritage Foundation (acoustic blues)*
The Eubie Blake Legacy Band (jazz)
Jah Works (reggae)
Shaggy (reggae/hip hop)
*Presented by the Baltimore Blues Society
**Presented by Bon Secours Baltimore Health System

Revenge of Mack the Knife

2005-07-16T15:51:00.000-04:00

A tale of betrayal and revenge on the high seas

Warning:
This story contains graphic and gory details that some of my readers may find shocking. Please accept my apologies, but I feel compelled to tell this sorry tale. Is it a confessional or a warning? You will have to decide…

Background:
My first job out of college was doing the lights and sounds for the stage shows on a cruise ship in the Caribbean. This may sound like fun work, but let me tell you that quite the opposite was true. It is a little known fact that people go insane working on cruise ships after serving for 8-12 months. Most of the cruise directors have been working for 7-10 years. They feel that the boat is the whole world and they are king. They live to make the lives of underlings miserable at any whim. Forget about Julie, the real thing is quite a bit more frightening.

The Betrayal:
The cruise director on my boat didn’t like me. He would frequently snub me and constantly tried to undermine me in little ways and I never knew why. I figured I could ignore his disdain and carry out my duties with honor, until that fateful night…

After most evenings of work, the cruise staff would retire to the crew bar to unwind after a hard day. Since beers were only 50-75 cents, it was quite common for people to buy a round for the bar as they entered. I had done it myself on numerous occasions. One night after the shows were over, the cruise director entered the bar and said, “Another round for everyone… except him.” I could feel him pointing at me before I saw it. There was no explanation. It was even more of a snub because the cruise director got free drinks. It would have cost him nothing to include me. This was the last straw.

The Revenge:
If you ever vacation on a cruise ship, you know you will have to hear Mack the Knife at least once. It’s just part of the package. I knew for a fact that the cruise director hated this song. (He had been working ships for 8 years after all). Another little known fact is that some entertainers live on the boat and some fly in, meet the boat at a port of call, perform, and fly off at the next island. The pieces of a plan were starting to formulate in my mind.

As the sound technician, I met with all acts before they performed. On this particular week, I knew the live-in entertainer performed on the first night and always included Mack the Knife in his repertoire. The second night, the other live-in entertainer performed. He was always drunk, never watched the first performer and it was easy to convince him that he should add the song to his set. One by one the fly-in acts came aboard for their performance nights, and one by one I stroked their egos by telling them how much I loved their renditions of our boy Mackie’s rash adventures. Each of them took the bait and included it. I even convinced the comedian to perform it on his night. The orchestra could have been my undoing by warning the performers of the Mack the Knife Marathon that was afoot. But it never happened and they became silent accomplices, perhaps because of some slight they had experienced from the cruise director.

For good measure, I also made sure the song was performed in the disco, the lounge, the piano bar and by the reggae band that played by the pool. I don’t know if the cruise director ever knew what was really going on or why, but I enjoyed watching that vein in his temple get bigger and bigger with each new rendition.

Epilogue:
The following week, I packed my bags and got off the boat in Old San Juan, never to return. If there were any long term ramifications of my Mack attack, I would never know about them. As the big white ship got smaller and smaller behind me, I found myself singing:

“Oh the shark, babe, has such teeth, dear,
And he shows them, pearly white,
Just a jack knife has old MacHeath, babe,
And he keeps it, out of sight…,”

For Your Enjoyment:
Mack The Knife - The Best Of Bobby Darin Volume Two
The Complete Ella in Berlin: Mack the Knife
Mack the Knife - Louis Armstrong
Duets 2 - Frank Sinatra and Jimmy Buffett do a duet of Mack the Knife on this CD.

Beer Haiku Daily

2005-07-15T10:11:00.000-04:00

Beer Haiku Daily
Such a fantastic retreat
from the daily grind

If you haven't had the chance yet, please take a look at my other site.

Sunrise in St. Michaels, Maryland

2005-07-13T21:33:00.000-04:00

Sunrise in St. Michaels, Maryland. (Picture taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.)

St. Michaels, Maryland is a beautiful historic maritime town on the eastern shore of Maryland. It's very pretty and it is well known for it's maritime museum, crafty stores, and seafood. We ate crabs and drank pitchers of beer at the Crab Claw. The food and views of the harbor are spectacular, but bring cash or an ATM card because they don't take credit cards.

We went sailing on the Chesapeake

2005-07-03T01:48:00.000-04:00

Great Blue Heron near the Chesapeake Bay.

Picture taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.

Brewpub: Rams Head Tavern, Annapolis, MD

2005-07-01T09:17:00.000-04:00

Rams Head Tavern

This is a great beer bar that became a brewpub and also a live entertainment venue. As it became more popular and successful it expanded into the surrounding shops and other locations around the region.

I still love the ambiance of the Annapolis location. The beer is outstanding and the food is fantastic. I highly recommend the steak chili with the works matched with a Copperhead Ale.

Human Nature?

2005-06-28T09:00:00.000-04:00

Last year I was hiking in the Cascade Mountains of Oregon near Mount Hood. Near the side of the trail I came across a hollowed out stump of a tree. The stump was about 5 feet high and 3 feet across. You could see into the stump through an archway at the base and it was quite striking the way the sun light spilled in from the opening at the top bringing out the rich red color of the rotting wood. Stumps like this are very common throughout the Pacific Northwest.

What was uncommon was that someone had piled a number of river rocks of varying sizes one on top of the other in the center of this stump. It looked like a pagoda bathed in the red glow of the sunlight.

I remember thinking, "What would cause someone to do this?"

"Is it human nature for people to want to create something beautiful?"

As I walked away I felt good about human nature. I was glad that some anonymous person was trying to make the world a prettier place.

A little later we turned around and were hiking back along the same stretch of trail. We came across the same stump, but this time, the stack of pagoda rocks had been knocked down. In the hour since we had passed this random act of beauty, someone simply destroyed it in another random act. Why? For what purpose? Now I was struck with my second thought:

"Is it human nature for people to want to destroy something beautiful?"

Which case was true? Create or Destroy? Did people have one nature or the other? Did people have both at the same time? Was one urge stronger than the other? Is it simply easier to destroy than create? What makes a person want to take the harder route? Is it a conflict in everyone or just part of the balance of life?

What is your nature? Which impulse wins out for you?

Sometimes you need a Hawaiian Shirt...

2005-06-27T10:06:00.000-04:00

Here's something fun...

There are some occassions where a Hawaiian shirt is required. When that time comes, shouldn't your Hawaiian shirt have beer mugs and beer bottles all over it?

Cannon Beach, Oregon

2005-06-24T18:53:00.000-04:00

Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach, Oregon

Picture taken with an old but reliable Kodak DC280.

Washington DC for July 4th?

2005-06-22T10:38:00.000-04:00

Spring Cherry blossoms and the Jefferson Memorial, Washington, DC
Picture taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.

I am thinking about taking the family to Washington, DC for July 4th. I haven't been in many years.

Cons:
-It's crazy
-It's crowded
-It's hot

Pros:
-It's crazy
-It's spectacular
-It's historic

If you plan to go, you may want to check Hotwire for deals.

The Wharf Rat, Baltimore, Maryland

2005-06-17T09:54:00.000-04:00

The Wharf Rat, Pub & Restaurant, Baltimore, Maryland

Let's get back to our roots here... You can go to the Wharf Rat at 206 W. Pratt Street near Camden Yards before the Orioles game or you can hang out at the more divey one at 801 S. Ann Street in Fells Point. At either location you are going to drink some good honest ales. The house brand is from Oliver Breweries. Try a couple of the varieties and let me know your favorite.

New York City

2005-06-15T09:47:00.000-04:00

We found ourselves in New York City briefly this past weekend. Kept getting stuck in the Puerto Rican Day parade traffic, but I did manage to get a couple of pictures of Central Park.

Central Park

Central Park

Puerto Rican Day Parade

Pictures taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.

Just a cool picture of some flowers.

2005-06-14T09:53:00.000-04:00

Lavendar in the springtime. I don't know if this picture is very adventurous, but I just like it. I think it is kind of cool and peaceful. Now let's go get a beer.

This picture was taken with a Canon Digital Rebel.

Artscape Baltimore is coming up!

2005-06-14T09:49:00.000-04:00

Baltimore Office of Promotion & the Artsuser - Artscape

Okay everyone, Artscape is coming up soon! This is a great free festival in the Mount Royal neighborhood of Baltimore. Lot's of music, food, entertainment, and art from July 22-24, 2005.

See you there.

Seattle, Washington

2005-06-13T13:56:00.000-04:00

View of Seattle from the ferry.

Seattle is a great town. Lot's of stuff to do, very pretty, good beer and food. What else could you want? We usually stay at the Sheraton right down town. Using Hotwire.com we've been able to rates as low as 70 or 80 bucks a night.

Picture taken with an old but reliable Kodak DC280.

More Songs for Pirates...

2005-06-10T09:58:00.000-04:00

Captain Bogg and Salty have another CD for buccaneers of all ages.

In addition to stories of adventure on the high seas, the crew of the Pollywogg takes us on an adventure in musical styles. All of the songs have pirate and nautical themes (except Nellie the Elephant but it is so fun we can forgive them) but alongside the sea chanteys and pirate rock we have come to expect from these fun-loving pirates, we have songs in the style of beach rock, elvis rock, a tango and more ballads.

The first time I heard this CD I thought it was a bit of a departure, but after listening to it a couple times it is easy to see the continuity and the evolution that led to it. Now I think I like it better than the first CD Bedtime Stories for Pirates

My favorite tracks are:
What It’s Really Like On A Ship
Scallywagg
Sea Monster
Weigh Anchor
Pieces of 8ight
Nellie the Elephant
Sea Kings
Pull Away Home

I recommend that you get this CD for yourself or the little pirates in your life. If you are ever in Portland, Oregon, keep an eye out for a live show.

Captain Bogg and Salty Pegleg Tango

Fun Wine Festivals in Maryland

2005-06-08T09:26:00.000-04:00

Linganore Winecellars

Wine in Maryland? I will be honest, this place isn't for wine snobs but it is definitely for people that like to have fun.

Up in beautiful Mt. Airy Maryland, you will find Linganore Winecellars and Berrywine Plantations. They make a large variety of grape, fruit and specialty wines. They have a lot of fine dessert wines and their honey mead is outstanding. They also have real dandelion wine which isn't for everyone, but should be tried at least once.

Anyway, each month from May to October they hold Music, Wine and Craft festivals. Each festival features a different style of music. Look for blues, jazz, reggae, and zydeco. Admission is 10 dollars which gives you an etched wine glass, unlimited tasting, and a tour of the winery.

These festivals are family friendly, so bring the kids. You may have tasted better wines, but you'll never have as much fun.

Cabo San Lucas

2005-06-06T21:09:00.000-04:00

Cabo San Lucas.

We love to travel. One way we have found to stretch the dollar is to use Hotwire.com to book the hotels. We've used it to get great rates in Seattle, Vancouver, Victoria and Cabo. I find that we are paying about the same for hotel rooms but we are staying at much better hotels. One of their taglines is, "4 star hotels at 2 star prices." I concur.

Mirror Pond Pale Ale - Pure Joy

2005-06-02T15:06:00.000-04:00

Deschutes Brewery

Located in Bend, Oregon, The Deschutes Brewery is crafting beautiful beers in beautiful country. Bend is an outdoor recreation paradise, with hiking, camping and rafting in the summer and skiing in the winter. Regardless of when you are there, you should not miss the opportunity to pull up a stool at the Deschutes Brew Pub right downtown. I am particularly fond of the Mirror Pond Pale Ale, but all of their varieties are great. They even make their own ginger ale that is out of this world.

Bend isn't really on the way to anywhere, but it is worth visiting just for the beer.

Have fun.

2005-06-02T10:33:00.000-04:00

This picture was taken in San Francisco, California. Behind me is the Golden Gate bridge. I should have been looking at that, but I happened to turn around and see this great shot.

This picture was taken with the original Canon EOS 6.3MP Digital Rebel with 18-55mm Lens and a Polarizer filter. The new Canon Rebel XT 8MP Digital SLR Camera is a step up. The new features include instant power-on and it is smaller and lighter than the original.

Bryce Canyon National Park

2005-06-01T17:18:00.000-04:00

Looking up from the bottom of Bryce Canyon Utah.

Picture taken with an old but reliable Kodak DC280.

The Brewer's Art

2005-06-01T14:44:00.000-04:00

The Brewer's Art

You really can get good food and beer in Baltimore. I have long been a fan of the beers at the Brewer's Art in Baltimore Maryland. It was only recently that I had the good fortune of trying their dining room.

I had the Pan Seared Lamb Loin with a couple pints of Resurrection Ale. What a fantastic combination. I recommend that you make a reservation.

Sunset Near Place of Refuge, Hawaii

2005-05-31T14:13:00.000-04:00

Sunset near Place of Refuge, Hawaii.

Picture taken with an old but reliable Kodak DC280. I don't think they make them anymore, but I got a lot of use out of it.

The Secret to Success

2005-05-31T11:16:00.000-04:00

A long time ago on an island far, far away, a series of very fortunate events resulted in me pet sitting for the summer in a tiny apartment on the Big Island. As the string of fortunate events continued, one night I found myself at a lavish party at an extraordinarily expensive house overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Keep in mind that at the time, I was just an 18 year old kid from Maryland, dead broke and way out of my element. I stood there a little overwhelmed on the deck of this multimillion dollar house gazing past the pool and the koi ponds mesmerized by the rainbow out over the Pacific Ocean. A couple of big Hawaiian guys were playing Bob Dylan tunes on their ukuleles behind me.

Suddenly, I was approached by what turned out to be the owner of the house and the host of the party. After introductions and small talk, he posed the question, “Do you think I am successful?”

Under most circumstances, a question with such an obvious answer would demand some sort of smart ass comment, but at the time I was still too stunned to generate one. So I took another look at the house, the pool, the koi, the happy friends and family that surrounded him, the great party and the grin on his face and I admitted, “Yes. I think you are successful.”

A couple moments of silence passed after my response and then he followed up with another question, “Do you want to know the secret to success?”

This time my answer came quicker, “Sure.”

“There are two secrets to remember in order to be successful,” he began. “Number one is: Don’t sweat the small things.”

I thought about that for a minute and saw that it made sense. It didn’t seem to be an earth shattering discovery and I found myself wondering what this second secret was. I looked expectantly at the man and finally when it didn’t seem that he would ever reveal the final secret, I asked, “Okay, so what’s the second secret?”

He took a slow draw from his glass of single malt, looked me in the eye and finally said, “Don’t sweat the big things either.”

Drinking a Venom Pale Ale on the waterfront in Fells Point.

2005-05-29T18:15:00.000-04:00

DuClaw Brewing Company

Go for the beer not the food or the service. The Venom Pale Ale is darn good. The tasting sampler is a great bargain and a fantastic introduction to a lot of good beer.

I like IPA. These folks make one of my favorites.

2005-05-27T13:05:00.000-04:00

BridgePort Brew Pub

These people make great beer and serve excellent food. If you are planning on being anywhere near Portland, OR, you owe it to yourself to savor their offerings.

The brewpub is in Northwest Portland and is currently being remodeled. This is a classic public house with great pizza and pub grub. It should reopen in late 2005.

The ale house is in Southeast Portland and serves a higher caliber of food. All of the entrees are consistently good and the fresh brewed beers compliment each dish perfectly.

I highly recommend the India Pale Ale. It is my favorite type of beer and these guys do it right.

My Favorite Jimmy Buffett Songs - Mellow Edition

2005-05-26T17:02:00.000-04:00

Here is a list of my 20 favorite mellow Jimmy Buffett songs. I actually threw in a bonus so there are 21 songs to compliment my previous post of upbeat favorites. This list is in alphabetical order because it was too hard to pick favorites. Enjoy. Format: Song (Album)

A Pirate Looks At Forty (A1A or B, B, B & B)
Banana Republics (Changes in Latitudes Changes in Attitudes)
Come Monday (Living and Dying in 3/4 Time or B, B, B & B)
He Went to Paris (A White Sport Coat and a Pink Crustacean or B, B, B & B)
I Have Found Me a Home (A White Sport Coat and a Pink Crustacean or B, B, B & B)
In the Shelter (Changes in Latitudes Changes in Attitudes)
It’s My Job (Coconut Telegraph)
Little Miss Magic (Coconut Telegraph or B, B, B & B)
Lone Palm (Fruitcakes)
Love in the Library (Fruitcakes)
Margaritaville (Changes in Latitudes Changes in Attitudes or B, B, B & B)
Something So Feminine About a Mandolin (Havana Daydreamin')
Son of a Son of a Sailor (Son of a Son of a Sailor or B, B, B & B)
Steamer (Somewhere over China or B, B, B & B)
Survive (Volcano or B, B, B & B)
That’s What Living Is to Me (Hot Water)
The Captain and the Kid (Havana Daydreamin' or B, B, B & B)
Treat her like a Lady (Volcano or B, B, B & B)
Trying to Reason With Hurricane Season (A1A or B, B, B & B)
West Nashville Grand Ballroom Gown (Living and Dying in 3/4 Time)
When the Wild Life Betrays Me (Riddles in the Sand)

My Favorite Jimmy Buffett Songs - Upbeat Edition

2005-05-26T16:44:00.000-04:00

Here is a list of my 20 favorite upbeat Jimmy Buffett songs. These are the fun songs. There will be another posting that contains the list of mellow favorites. I am well aware that I left off some of the more popular tunes, but I strongly believe that many of these songs are underrated. I tried to put these in some sort of best to worst order, but found it impossible so I give them to you in alphabetical order. Enjoy. (For those of you counting along at home, you will find there are actually 21 songs listed because I threw in a bonus.) Format: Song (Album)

Boat Drinks (Volcano or B, B, B & B)
Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes (Changes in Latitudes Changes in Attitudes or B, B, B & B)
Chanson Pour Les Petits Enfants (Volcano)
Cliches (Havana Daydreamin')
Coconut Telegraph (Coconut Telegraph or B, B, B & B)
Dreamsicle (Volcano)
Fruitcakes (Fruitcakes)
Gypsies in the Palace (Last Mango in Paris)
Last Mango in Paris (Last Mango in Paris)
Life Is Just a Tire Swing (A1A)
Livingston Saturday Night (Son of a Son of a Sailor or B, B, B & B)
Love and Luck (Boats, Beaches, Bars & Ballads)
My Head Hurts, My Feet Stink, and I Don’t Love Jesus (Havana Daydreamin')
Nautical Wheelers (A1A or B, B, B & B)
One Particular Harbour (One Particular Harbour or B, B, B & B)
Smart Woman (In a Real Short Skirt) (Hot Water)
Take It Back (Boats, Beaches, Bars & Ballads)
The Great Filling Station Holdup (A White Sport Coat and a Pink Crustacean or B, B, B & B)
The Pascagoula Run (Off to See the Lizard or B, B, B & B)
The Weather Is Here, Wish You Were Beautiful (Coconut Telegraph or B, B, B & B)
The Wino and I Know (Living and Dying in 3/4 Time or B, B, B & B)
We Are the People Our Parents Warned Us About (One Particular Harbour)

Songs for Pirates Big and Small...

2005-05-25T15:51:00.000-04:00

If you ever find yourself in Portland, OR, take the opportunity to check out the band Captain Bogg and Salty. These guys are fun! If you can't make it to Portland, buy the CD. You will love it and your kids will thank you.

The CD takes you on a journey of song and adventure as a new pirate recruit. The lyrics are good spirited, creative and funny. These fine musicians don't pander to the young, they offer much to amuse, educate and entertain buccaneers of all ages.

The best part of this CD is that my 1 year old son can listen to it for hours day in and day out and I never get sick of it. It is simply infectious and will leave you wanting more.

Captain Bogg & Salty: Bedtime Stories for Pirates