Overnight Shooting At Club

Holy crap, my brother DJ'ed at this club.

Gowns

It's not unusual for people to take stuff like towels, soaps, and tissue from hotels. But hospital gowns?

You can get these at any medical supply store, but these look like they were boosted from the hospital on Saunders.

These things were probably worn by several people before coming home. Oh well, cooties aren't going to kill you. Are they?

Frontage Rd. Blogger

Either he has a very good lawyer, or he's got compromising photos/video of Andy Reyes.

Another Award Show Tonight

The 52nd Annual Grammy Awards will be televised tonight on CBS at 7:00pm. Sure to win a few trophies are Lady Gaga, Beyonce, and Taylor Swift (can't wait to see them all perform!) I'm also betting on John Legend or Maxwell to take a few in the Male and R&B categories.

U2's "I'll Go Crazy If I Don't Go Crazy Tonight" has a couple of nominations; don't know if that will win them a Grammy though. Kings of Leon and Black Eyed Peas also have multiple nominations. And I'm sure some locals will be happy to know that Los Tigres del Norte are also nominees!

Bon Jovi will be playing whatever song was voted on (out of 3 choices) by fans. There will also be a special 3-D tribute to Michael Jackson so don't forget your glasses.

Song of the Year should go to Beyonce for "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)", because you know EVERYONE sang or danced that one!

Update:
WINNERS: What did I tell you..."Single Ladies"=Song of the Year! Yay!
Lady Gaga won in the Dance categories (song/album).
Nice surprise of the night: Kings of Leon getting Record of the Year for "Use Somebody", beating out Beyonce, Gaga, and Taylor Swift. I don't think THEY thought they had a chance.
Biggest surprise: Taylor Swift getting Album of the Year! I knew she was going to get some awards, but I didn't expect her to get the big one!

STUFF: Lady Gaga had several major wardrobe choices.
Beyonce's hair kept getting in her face during her performance, in which she added some Alanis Morrisette's "You Oughta Know"...very interesting.
The 3-D Michael Jackson tribute didn't really look 3-D to me, even with glasses on. But the song sounded great with MJ's vocals added.
Funny moment: Robert Downey Jr.'s presentation of Jamie Foxx
Jaw-dropping moment: Pink's performance! First her nude colored skin suit, then her acrobatics a la Cirque de Soleil , then the water!!! She did an amazing job! (Her red carpet dress was one of my faves!)

Bunny & The Tramp

Meet Bunny Melon. She's a really rich, really old lady with a thing for creepy politocos. Turns out Edwards was hitting up the 99- year old for money to hide his affair and bastard child. There's also word about a sex tape with a pregnant mistress along with allegations involving circus clowns, midgets, bubble wrap and an alligator.

The fun just continues with this guy. In his defense, the mother of his love child speaks up for him below.

Music Dilemma

It's being reported that John Edwards and Rielle Hunter loved one particular Dave Matthews song. Of all the emerging news about Edwards' infidelity, this little nugget makes me want to puke. I consider myself a D.M. fan but I'm going to put his music away for a while.

It's bad enough that Dave Matthews' music falls into the adult contemporary genre, but now I'll be reminded that a smooth-talking, cheating, expensive haircut-having liar is a fan too. Oh yeah, and I forgot to mention that Edwards cheated while his wife was battling cancer. Asshole! He's officially entered the arena of Rudy Guliani and Newt Gingrich schmuckdom.

I've learned that people disappoint you, like the time I found out that Lynn Swann, ex-Steeler WR, was running for governor as a Republican. Edwards at least got nowhere near the Oval Office. I'll return to Dave Matthews someday; his drummer will surely lead me back. But for now I have to get this bad taste out of my mouth.

Big Winner

One lucky Texas resident is now a multi-millionaire thanks to years of dedication.

has been playing his lucky numbers on four tickets twice a week for about seven years.

I'm going to the store to get a Lotto ticket. Does anybody want anything?

Menudo Bowl Laredo, Texas

We briefly took in the sights at the Menudo Bowl -- didn't get any menudo, but we got plenty of dust. Enjoy.

Obama to Investigate the BCS

With remarkable progress and success on several domestic and international fronts under its belt, the Obama Administration is now turning its attention to college football and its post-season process. In a letter to Sen. Orrin Hatch, Assistant Attorney General Ronald Weich wrote that the Administration is "exploring other options that might be available to address concerns with the college football postseason". Options will include reviewing the legality of the BCS under consumer protection laws.

Given the failure of the NCAA and BCS to nurture an exciting game, gain popularity or attract fans, we should all be glad the government is finally taking notice and doing something in the best interest of the people and their tax dollars.

Quote of the Weak

"TV is not fair."

- Jay Leno

End Of January

Light blogging today, but looking forward to Menudo Bowl. Will go out and tape the locals this afternoon.

Friday

Bill Maher is in San Antonio doing his stand-up and I'm home watching the 20/20 story about John Edwards' affair.

They Ride

With Border Patrol personnel having bikes, ATVs and horses at their disposal, why would they need to widen an existing road on a nature trail near Laredo Community College?

Jaime Fuentes Likes Music

The people over at Que Pasa (LMT) have started to outsource their Just Listen section, where people give us their take on music.

This week we have Mr. Fuentes of Arguindegui Oil, and a member of the WBCA Board of Directors.

I'm familiar with most of his selections. But I guess most people would be too if the list is going to include Pearl Jam, U2, Journey, and Earth, Wind & Fire.

Nevertheless, kudos to Mr. F. for including one of my favorites, Jeff Buckley. Also, my wife and I are big fans of The Verve. Richard Ashcroft's solo work is also on our rotation. And we too saw Muse in October. They rock. I tell you, with this list, it's like I have a twin!

The Mayor Speaks

To hear Mayor Salinas speak about our town, you would think that this is the only place that immigrants, and cargo cross through. The interview was supposed to be about stimulus money and he goes off on national security. If Rudy Guliani is Mr. Noun, Verb, and 9-11, then Mayor Salinas is Noun, Verb, and biggest inland port.

Que Fregados has part of the interview.

Spell Checking Tattoos

A tattoo artist need not be a Ph.D. in literature. That's not exactly their calling. At the same time, consumers of these goods may want to bring a dictionary next time they permanently mark their bodies.

The following website captures some of the dumber ink jobs.

More Bad Press For Martin H.S.

Pro8news reported on a video produced by some students at Martin High School. In the video, students are horsing around, using their cell phones, and viewing music videos on a computer.

At one point they get on top of the desk to dance or even strike a
pose.

I tried looking for the video but it appears to have been deleted already.

This looks bad for the school, but it looks even worse for the students. It's bad enough that they are in detention; they go on to document their miscreant behavior for the world to see. Not much going on upstairs for these deviants. They'll probably end up getting suspended, and I seriously doubt that it's going to end with an introspective essay being read out loud.

Dear Mr. Vernon,

We accept the fact that we had to sacrifice a whole Saturday in detention for whatever it was we did wrong. But we think you're crazy to make us write an essay telling you who we think we are. You see us as you want to see us, in the simplest terms, in the most convenient definitions. But what we found out is that each one of us is a brain, and an athlete, and a basketcase, a princess, and a criminal. Does that answer your question?

Sincerely yours,

The Breakfast Club

It's Our Car!!

I really don't know why Democrats are such fucking pussies.

Water Leak Not A Top Priority

Residents have placed calls to the city about a water leak near the downtown area. Their response: we'll look into it. Oh yeah, this has been going on since the holidays.

The mayor has been in Washington, and he's getting ready for his CNN appearance tomorrow. I'll have to contact Cindy Liendo via Facebook to see what's going on.

Nic Cage Like Everyone Else

Instead of everyone being like Nicolas Cage (as they so often try). What if, just what if, Nicolas Cage could be like everyone?

Set Your VCRs

WHEN & TOMORROW, Friday, January 29, 2010 9:30 a.m. – 9:40 a.m.

WHERE: CNN, Time Warner Cable Channel 36

WHY: Mayor Salinas will be highlight Laredo on a national spotlight, promoting the major projects that the City of Laredo has received monies through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Salinas will be appearing on CNN with Keira Phillips. “We are looking at cities around country that have received stimulus funding and if those dollars have had an immediate impact in their community,” said Karen Zucker, producer for the show.

“This is a great opportunity to highlight the hard work of all of our elected officials, from our local council members to our state elected officials and of course, Congressman Cuellar, who have helped the City of Laredo receive over $109 million in stimulus money for major infrastructure projects, creating jobs and boosting our economy, just as the Act was intended to do,” said Salinas. “While I will highlight the two major projects that have received funding, including Cuatro Vientos and the various utilities projects, I will also point out that we have not received any monies for border security, which is important not only for Laredo, but for the rest of the country,” concluded Salinas.

New Endorsement Deal for Tiger

Food

The battle of the bulge never ends. Try some menudo this weekend, or swap a book for a roast beef sandwich at the new Arby's.

Cabron of the Weak

Seems like the week for homies to be speaking out of turn. Now this guy, Paul Shirley, (some sort of B-ball player) goes after Haiti and Haitians. Nice timing guy. Here are some of his choice words:

"As we prepare to assist you in this difficult time, a polite request: If it's possible, could you not re-build your island home in the image of its predecessor? Could you not resort to the creation of flimsy shanty - and shack - towns? And could some of you maybe use a condom once in a while?"

Shirley, you must be kidding.

Drinks

Do they really need the bikinis? And what's up with the cowboy hats? I guess the bikinis draws people in, and the treats keep bringing them back.

Cuellar Responds To Obama's State Of The Union

Washington, DC – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) today released the following statement following President Barack Obama’s State of the Union address to Congress:

“Tonight, the President renewed his commitment to the American economy and I stand by his call to reduce the nation’s deficit and restore the nation’s fiscal health. This is vitally important to the American people and our economic future in the 21^st Century.

“Looking back, we have stabilized the nation from the brink of financial disaster and those stakes we faced just one year ago. In less than twelve months, we have put this country on a path towards economic recovery, but with the rising tide of unemployment, there is still work to be done. We need to bring back jobs, create new jobs, help people keep their homes and renew Americans’ faith in the initiatives we take in Washington.

“I commend the President and this Congress for taking swift action to rebuild and restore our national economy in 2009. In 2010, we must pass meaningful fiscal reforms to rein-in federal spending and bring down the nation’s debt. The American people are still hurting as we emerge from this recession, and bipartisan action can help us achieve those national priorities we will pursue this year.”

Jay Leno: "A Company Man to the Bitter End"

Comedian Bill Hicks (who DIED in 1994, sadly) had this brilliant bit on Jay Leno being the host of The Tonight Show.

I remember hearing it way back when on the original Bill Hicks special. The celebrities he mentions are outdated now, but how he describes Jay Leno still holds true to this day!

And now that NBC and their favorite company man have screwed Conan O'Brien over, Jay has to muster up whatever shred of dignity he could possibly have to go BACK to The Tonight Show! How long will it last this time? When will the bitter end come for Jay?

Thanks to Bill Hicks, it's good to know I was never (and will never be) alone in my loathing of Leno.

(As mentioned in the clip, here's ONE of Jay's Doritos commercials.)

iPad Announced

It's official. The iPad was announced by Steve Trabajos today. Device merges functions of laptop, iPhone, MP3/movie player and book reader (for starters).

Device is priced at $499 for entry level model. Apple also unveiled a new electronic bookstore. Will this change all things media related?

Suspicious

I've driven around and taken pictures for the site from my car, but I've never been sought out because I looked suspicious. I've gotten curious looks but that's about it.

People Like Birds

Zach Lindsey reports in today's LMT that the female Amazon Kingfisher has been spotted in Laredo. Confirmation has to be established with the American Birding Association.

Now, with the sighting of kingfisher, many of those birders are making a stop in Laredo.

Smiles, everyone! Smiles! We have visitors. Apparently, birding is popular and brings in money to local communities. Who knew?

A birding pro blogged about the experience. Laredo needs to step up efforts to promote more outdoor activities in town. And they need to get going on the Chacon Bike Trail.

Highlighted quote and photo courtesy of LMT.

Paywall

Newsday started charging for access to its website and a whole 35 people decided to jump on board.

Deep Thought

Of all the American Idol winners, I idolize not one of them.

Damages

I don't know why I ever started watching this show but I've been hooked since the beginning.

The season premiere aired last night with no commercial interruption. Nice. The show didn't disappoint. The only complaint I have is with the frequency of time warps (six months later, six months earlier) employed.

Glenn Close does such a wonderful job with her character. I always think she's going to rip somebody's eyes out. Thank goodness for this show, as it transitions me from football, and cold weather, to Spring allergies and Spring Break.

All About Image

There's a little piece of land in North Laredo that is home to several nightclubs. People who live nearby have complained about noise, traffic, cars speeding off, and the trash that's left by club patrons.

Then Stingray Alley Restaurant wanted to open up their own place but people were hesitant to allow more of this type of business to come in.

The owners stressed that the establishment wasn't going to cater to young drunkards. Instead it was going to focus on the restaurant part. Now they've gone one step forward. They've hosted arts & crafts contests. One lucky lady (pictured) got a certificate. This should put the neighbors' minds to rest, unless those contestants have a drinking problem and do donuts in the parking lot.

Picture courtesy of the LMT.

Hold On To Your Hats

WASHINGTON, DC— Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) today announced that the U.S. Census Bureau Director Robert M. Groves will tour the border colonias outside of Laredo, Texas, next Monday, February 1, 2010, to raise awareness throughout the community for the 2010 Census this spring.

Info: 9:30 - 12:00 noon; San Carlos on Hwy 359.

"Money Talks, The Rest Walks"

Our mayor was just on t.v. blathering on about something he did on his trip to Washington last week.

(paraphrasing) Main Street........Mr. Attorney General.......we are the largest inland port.....10,000 trucks cross Laredo every day......our officers need equipment.......terrorism is at our front door......we need support.....money talks, the rest walks......

Don't Mess with Mr. Chow

Suburban Sprawl

Part of me feels bad for the families who had to evacuate their homes in San Antonio because of severe erosion. Some have to find a new place to live and others are going to see their property values decrease.

And now comes the part of assigning responsibility.

the city's planning and development director, said the builder built the
retaining wall without a permit.

Yeah, it's the builder's fault, not the city's; they only gave the builders permission to construct there. And everybody will be looking at the alleged shoddy retaining wall construction, and the heavy rainfall San Antonio has had, and yadda yadda yadda.....

"I would hear, laying in my bed at night, grumbling and vibrations. A
few nails popped out lately," she said.

Advice: don't live near, or on, hills. And stall sprawl.

Debates!!!

KGNS is hosting its first debate next week, and they're asking the public to submit questions for the candidates. The anticipation mounts.

Out And About On Santa Ursula

The service station blogger strikes again.

He may not be the Freeway Blogger, but it counts.

If We Sent The Men Home

Rep. Shea-Porter might have a point. With health care reform stalled, men could be the problem. It doesn't help that Sarah Palin is out there spouting garbage about death panels, but with women being seasoned caregivers, perhaps this should be left in their hands.


And another thing that should be left in the care of women is the abortion issue. Men shouldn't really be saying anything about it.

Webb County Meeting Today

Items are being discussed.

Besides an item in closed session discussing the status of lease negotiations,
the court will also discuss the possibility of using a professional commercial
property appraiser to determine the value of the real property.

I thought all Webb County meetings were held in closed session since they're held at 9:00 a.m. all the time.

Quote via the LMT.

Andre Bauer

Cabron of the day.

"My grandmother was not a highly educated woman, but she told me as a small child to quit feeding stray animals," Bauer told a Greenville-area crowd. "You know why? Because they breed.

"You're facilitating the problem if you give an animal or a person ample food supply. They will reproduce, especially ones that don't think too much further than that.

It's A Good Thing They Raised Fares

Earlier today, a bus burst into flames, and on La Sanbe no less!

The Laredo Fire Department is now investigating what caused an El Metro bus to go up in flames this morning.

Now, I'm not going to turn this event into some type of metaphor for the way the City of Laredo does business, but maybe, just maybe it's a sign of things to come.

In today's edition of the LMT, Zach Lindsey reported that sales tax revenue is considerably down from last year. Bad.

City crews have been working on water pipes on Market and Rosario for the last several weeks. Market itself has been closed to traffic so the morning commute for many Laredoans has not been pleasant. Yesterday we found out that work was completed and Market was again open for business.
Then this morning, I see water gushing out from the street, right in front of Las Cazuelas. Roll eyes here.

And now our (deathtraps) buses are catching fire. Nothing but good fortune for our little city and its people. At least I know I can go out and buy a book, oh.........

Late last year, City Manager Carlos Villarreal said that bus fares needed to be raised in order to run the day-to-day operations at El Metro. It didn't make sense to a lot of people, especially those who ride the bus on a daily basis. But now we have visual proof. Now we know El Metro needs the extra money to buy buses because their fleet is bursting into flames!!!

One thing's for sure: whenever I ride the bus, I'll be fighting old ladies to sit closer to the front, and near the exit.

Random Pic: Insert Your Own Caption

Ah, Laredo

A local activist organized a debate at the Santa Teresita Community Center. It was to feature the candidates vying for the county commissioner Pct. 2 spot. Incumbent Rosaura (won't call her Wawi) Tijerina showed up with her posse.

the first one of these arrived with a large group of supporters

Perhaps she thought there would be trouble. Anyway, the format for the debate was to take on a different style.

they were going to ask seven questions to Tijerina, who is currently in office, and five questions to Gutierrez and Salinas

Tijerina objected, and her two opponents opted to leave, along with the event's organizer.

they ended up cancelling their participation and leaving the venue

And these are supposed to be the grown-ups who lead us. Even if the organizer couldn't present an unbiased debate, you would think that Gutierrez, Tijerina, and Salinas would step in and try to reach a consensus.

I'm handing out demerits to Tijerina because she took an entourage to hold her hand.

Edgar Valdez Villarreal

The LMT features a story (written by former LMT reporter Jason Buch) of native Laredoan-turned-drug-kingpin, Edgar Villarreal.

Valdez Villarreal played football at United High School on the city's affluent North Side

His life took a turn somewhere.

But it was Valdez Villarreal's war with the Gulf Cartel, U.S. authorities allege, that racked Nuevo Laredo with violence and created an atmosphere where many in Laredo are now afraid to cross the Rio Grande

Lovely.

Jamboozie 2010

I made it out to the music/food/booze festival in downtown Laredo tonight. I didn't see the volume of people I expected and it looked like there were less food vendors present. Still, it was a good place to be on a Saturday night.

Rosaura Tijerina, who is seeking to keep her county commissioner position, had a booth out there: the Wawi Wild Bunch. Sure. Why not.

I'll post some video later tonight.

Transformer

It's amazing how Sarah Palin has transformed herself over the years. It was a short time ago that she was governor of Alaska, and soon-to-be Tina Fey impersonator. Then she got tapped to run with John McCain and she was wearing designer clothes, all of a sudden. Now she's got a new hairdo and she looks like Nia Vardalos (pictured).

Palin is still young, energetic, and willing to milk her personality for all its worth. We await her next look. Talia Shire, look out!

The Field Gets Crowdeder

By ZACH LINDSEY
LAREDO MORNING TIMES

Published: Saturday, January 23, 2010 8:55 AM CST

Laredo City Councilman Jose Valdez Jr. has announced his candidacy for mayor.

The effect a mayor can have is substantial, according to Valdez.

With about eight council members for each city in Texas, a council member is “just a needle in a haystack.”

A mayor is “a cheerleader for the community,” Valdez said.

“You’re pushing your team. You’re going to do your part. That’s what I expect to do.”

Drug and alcohol abuse reduction is a priority of his.

He was instrumental in creation of drug- and weapons-free zones around parks, schools and recreational centers.

If elected, Valdez said he would continue focusing on them.

He wants to see a rehab center in Laredo, and said he plans to work with private organizations to create the center.

Valdez has also been a vocal opponent of 'street walkers' on San Bernardo Ave. Boo! We'll keep a close eye on this race and hope that he fares better than the last time around.
For now, check out our little talk.

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Drug Bust

Authorities bring down a lot of people.

An indictment unsealed on Friday reveals federal prosecutors are seeking
the forfeiture of $50 million dollars in properties as well 12 luxury vehicles,
trucks, and SUVs.

The Beauty Process

Anyone notice anything a bit odd about Madonna tonight?

Male Prostitute

Some guy goes to work in a brothel in Nevada, and all of a sudden, he thinks he's all that.

his pioneering role in the sex business was "just the same" as civil rights icon Rosa Parks

The dude needs to get over himself.

Hope for Haiti

George Clooney's telethon to raise funds for the victims of Haiti's earthquake is on now. It is being simulcast on multiple networks. www.hopeforhaitinow.org

Updates: Shine on Beyonce!
Madonna looks a bit weird...puffy cheeked.
Bono and The Edge rocking the hizzouse with Jay-Z and Rihanna.
Loved that Haitian song by Wyclef Jean.....still humming it!

Trip Over

I made a quick trip over to Nuevo Laredo to see a dentist and I'm glad to say that my root canal went over just fine.

What I don't like is that I spent $4.00 for parking at the transit center. Total time parked there: about 1:25

Open For Business

At least one person has the right idea.

If I lived in Laredo, Texas, I'd quit my job and open a bookstore.

Perhaps there's somebody already here who is taking this approach.

We Party Tomorrow

Actually we just go downtown to enjoy the live bands and food at the Jamboozie. Admission is free if you get there before six. And then there will be more events.

A professor once told me that the reason Washington is celebrated as opposed to something like the 4th of July is because he is "safe" and not very revolutionary while still being patriotic.

Sounds right.

Henry Cuellar Met With Some People

Washington, D.C. –Congressman Henry Cuellar today in Laredo met with high-ranking officials from the State and Homeland Security departments where they discussed the process of obtaining passports and naturalization certificates.

During his meeting with Mario R. Ortiz, regional director of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, and with Brian Clark, assistant regional director of the Bureau of Consular Affairs Passport Agency, Congressman Cuellar discussed ways of how to streamline the process when applying for a passport, citizenship, or legal residency status.

“I understand and am aware that applying for a passport, citizenship, or legal residency status is a detailed and timely process. My purpose for the meeting with Mr. Ortiz and Mr. Clark was to learn more about the procedures and how better I can serve my constituents in the 28^th Congressional District,” said Congressman Cuellar.

The three also discussed the current issue plaguing residents along the U.S.-Mexico border who were born to a midwife.

“The Department of State is working hard to ensure that midwife issues are addressed in the shortest time possible for people who are applying for passports,” said Congressman Cuellar. “Due to the recent cases of fraud that have come up, the State Department is taking extra steps to ensure that all U.S. Citizens are treat equally.”

Show Season Finale

The picture I've included is not from the Laredo Morning Times' Que Pasa section. Apparently, these girls appear in Jersey Shore, a show about beautiful young people who live in New Jersey.

Jessica Grose of Slate doesn't think the show's sincere feel can be reproduced. She suggests moving on to Massholes, a type of guido that lives a bit farther North.

who possesses a nearly carnal love for the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, and
Bruins; operates motor vehicles in an aggressive fashion; drinks Sam Adams; and
overuses the adjective wicked.

I know now why I don't own an oversized television with surround sound capabilities.

Macho Mayor in D.C.

Our adorable mayor wows other stuffed suits with his snazzy headgear.

Question: why is his name tag facing sideways?

Photo courtesy of the LMT.

Old Eatery

This former Whataburger on San Bernardo Ave. has remained true to its original form.

It was one of our regular stops in the early 80s, especially since my big sister was employed there.

Hitler Reacts to Coakley Senate Defeat

Unfaithful

John Edwards finally comes out with the truth about fathering a child with his mistress. And to think that he was my favorite presidential candidate a couple of years ago.

Abe Martinez Resigns As CEO

Abe Martinez is no longer an employee of Cedar Park Regional Medical Center in Austin.

resigned as CEO to focus on a personal matter

Again, the only local media outlet to report on this development is Univision, our Spanish-speaking news provider.

Squirrel Jedi Fighting Erupts at Park

Deductions Coming

If you can claim monetary donations on you taxes, is it really charity?

CONGRESSMAN CUELLAR: HOUSE PASSES HAITI RELIEF TAX CREDIT

House unanimously approves bill to allow taxpayers to claim charitable donations for Haiti Relief

Washington, DC – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) today helped pass H.R. 4462, legislation that would allow individuals who make charitable contributions to victims of the Haiti earthquake to claim an itemized deduction on their 2009 tax return this April. The bipartisan legislation passed the House of Representatives unanimously on Wednesday.

The Sights

I was driving down San Bernardo Ave. and saw these beauties near Julio's Bar.

I don't know what the point is with leaving them out there.

Caption accordingly.

Quote of the Day

"Why are Linkin Park putting out unreleased material for Haiti earthquake victims? Haven't those poor people been through enough?"
- Neil Hamburger

Dexter in remission...

I had NO idea that Michael C. Hall, lead actor in Showtime's Dexter, had cancer. I had just heard about it, then I see him on last Sunday's Golden Globe Awards with a knit cap on.
I loved him when he was on HBO's Six Feet Under. It's great that he won the Best Actor in a TV Drama Award for Dexter.
Some people were saying that fellow nominee Bill Paxton was seen on camera as Michael's name was announced saying "It's the cancer!", as in that's why Michael won. OMG, shocking. Can't believe everything though.
Apparently, Michael had been keeping it a secret as long as he could. Luckily after successful treatment, he is now in remission. Thank goodness. He's a great actor.

Jake Edward Thomas

At least this guy didn't name his son Jesus Gonzalez III, or Benjamin Canales Jr.

Brown Wins Massachusetts Senate Seat

Right now, Fox News is having the biggest orgasm of its life.
And male models are feeling a little better about themselves.

UPDATE: A poll tells us that Obama supporters protested in voting for Brown. Change, apparently, hasn't been delivered.

Democrats were not being "hard enough" in challenging Republican
policies

Religious Codes On Rifles

At least one person doesn't have a problem with having biblical references on military-issued rifles.

"This situation is not unlike the situation with U.S. currency. Are we going to stop using money because the bills have 'In God We Trust' on them?"

Oh gawd; we're in serious trouble.

I think the picture that Jobsanger posted gives us a little perspective.

El Eden Recreation Center In South Laredo

El Chacon really needs a recreation center; not necessarily one with an indoor track, but one nonetheless.

Orange Exterior

Looks like somebody got a deal on orange paint.

Don't let the bar's vividness or the sunny day fool you; the bar's inside sucks the light out of every living thing, much like a black hole.

Plastic Bag Ban

Zach Lindsey (LMT) reports today that city council might revisit the issue of banning plastic bags.

Councilman Hector "Tito" Garcia sees this as a fine moment to reintroduce a
plastic bag ban.

I really don't see this thing getting done. Laredoans love their plastic bags, and it'll be a snowy day in Laredo before we learn to live without them.

City council should deal with this the way it dealt with cell phone use while driving: you can't do it around school zones. It's a half-assed ordinance and they're proud of it. So with the plastic bags, they should only ban them in convenience stores, at Wal-Mart from 2:00 a.m. to 5:45 a.m., and any store that Les Norton owns West of Convent Ave.

Parking

The lack of parking is an issue that never goes away, and it greatly affects none more than our tax assessor/collector Patricia Barrera.

since she requested more parking space now they want to move her office to
another building that is smaller

She suffers so much for us. Her battles are never over.

Trade

Our economy's status is discussed, and a swipe at tourists is included.

Mexican shoppers will take the tags off clothes and leave boxes in the
parking lot in order to avoid import taxes

Cowboys Keep Cupcake

Looks like the Cowboys are keeping Coach Cupcake. Yesterday's inspired effort seems to have ensured his job security.

Stated Tony Romo: "His record speaks for itself.. He's done a fantastic job as coach of the Cowboys."

Who can argue with success, right?

Enjoying Yesterday's Weather

Fun With Flatulence

I agree, kids do love to move air. Even parents join in on the fun. LaSanbe says, let 'er rip!

Moving air is fun for kids

By César G. Rodriguez
LAREDO MORNING TIMES

Published: Monday, January 18, 2010 3:01 AM CST

Perhaps Javier Esquivel Jr., 7, could have not asked for a better birthday gift.

His parents took him to the Imaginarium of South Texas at Mall del Norte for the new exhibit, AirPlay.

Children and parents took some family quality time for the exhibit that helps define the movement of air and how it can affect objects.

But the fun is not limited to the children.

His mother, Sandra Esquivel, said she enjoyed the exhibits as well as her son. Yet, she has mixed feelings.

“It makes me feel nostalgic.” she said.

Sore Loser?

I didn't watch the entire Dallas/Vikings game yesterday. You could say, I quit on the game, much like the entire Cowboys squad. I kid, I kid. But Keith Brooking was upset because the Vikes scored a touchdown late in the game. He saw no reason for them running up the score.

However, I agree with what Chris Chase had to say:

Just because the Cowboys quit doesn't mean the Vikings needed to also.

The Vikings had the ball, and the lead, with a couple of minutes to go; they could've just run out the clock. But this is the NFL, and Brooking is part of "America's Team." Surely if your team can afford the largest jumbotron in the league, you can afford a thick skin as well.

Let's run down the previous three games for the Cowboys: 17-0 against Washington; 24-0 against the Eagles; and 34-14 against the Eagles in the Wildcard game. In all those games, I don't recall seeing Romo's backup QB taking snaps late in the game.

We can argue that the Cowboys didn't run up those scores late in each game, but by leaving Romo in there, I think, they wanted to test their offense going into the playoffs and beyond. The same can be argued with what Minnesota did yesterday.

I can appreciate Brooking's frustration, but perhaps he should be venting in another direction.

Nobody Rides For Free

Looks like the New York Times is following the Laredo Times' lead.

Friday Fights In Laredo

The Laredo Entertainment Center was jumping on Friday night. Entertainment: boxing.

"LA COBRITA" Gomez impressed the three thousand charged fans in attendance

Late Night Talk

I almost had given up on doing podcasts, but inspiration struck. Enjoy.

Powered by Podbean.com

Sleepy Sunday

To add some excitement to a humdrum day, I present David Montoya.

Gone Missing

Anyone seen this guy today? He's supposed to be a big-time wide receiver that (allegedly) plays for the Cowboys.

Cowboys were (supposed to be) playing today, but no real evidence that this guy made it to Minneapolis. And in conclusion..

The Traditional Abrazo Ceremony

On February 20, people from Mexico and Laredo come together at Bridge II to act out a symbolic gesture between two nations. Both sides exchange hugs as a sign of friendship. The cute factor is heightened by including children in the festivity.

I never really paid attention to the kids who took part in this event, but in reading their short bios, I realize that even the young performers are those of privilege in our neighboring communities.

The kids representing Mexico attend a local private school (United Day), as does the young man representing the U.S. And the young lady from Mexico (?) lists horseback riding as one of her hobbies.

That's all I need: kids making me feel inferior.

WBCA - Wealthy Bores Celebrating Antiquity.

Jay Explains

In this bit, Jay explains the Tonight Show tradition, handoffs to new hosts and how to avoid hurt feelings..

Jay's 2004 Announcement - watch more funny videos

44 Days To Go

Tano's people were out in the Chacon neighborhood yesterday passing out these fliers. Mine was placed on my front gate.
The day before, I heard a Tano ad on the radio, and his t.v. spot has been running for a couple of days it seems.

He's definitely setting the pace as far as the media blitz is concerned. All other candidates are hardly keeping up.

Good for him, but unfortunately, money doesn't always win you elections in this town.

Sunday's TV Alternative to NFL

Award season is underway in Hollywood. It always helps me get over my holiday hangover. And I love seeing all those fashion mistakes.

One of my favorite award shows is Sunday night: the Golden Globe Awards. I've always liked this one because you have movie stars and TV stars all sitting at dinner tables together in the same room. Also, comedy is recognized along with drama categories. This year British comedian Ricky Gervais is hosting, and Martin Scorsese is getting the special Cecil B. DeMille Award.

I haven't seen all the movies with nominations, but I'm predicting the following winners: The Hurt Locker (Best Drama), Nine (Best Comedy/Musical), Jeff Bridges (Best Actor-Drama for Crazy Heart), Meryl Streep (Best Actress-Comedy for Julie & Julia), Mo'nique (Best Supporting Actress- Drama for Precious), and Up (Best Animated Movie).

On the TV side I think we'll see Glee taking some comedy awards. I hope Mad Men gets a win, as well as Michael Emerson for Supporting Actor-Drama for his role a Ben on Lost!

Red carpet coverage will be on E!, so you can watch after your Dallas Cowboys game coverage. Awards start at 7p.m. on Channel 10 locally. (I will be switching once in a while to catch some of the Chargers/Jets game.) Woohooo!
UPDATE: It's raining down on the red carpet. Jon Hamm has a beard (and still looks fine). Sandra Bullock's husband Jesse James is actually escorting her. Tobey Maguire is going to be sitting next to The Edge from U2!!! (U2's song "Winter" from Tobey's movie Brothers is nominated for Best Song.)

Winners Update: I got 6 out of my 9 predictions right...not too bad. (Meryl Streep, Jeff Bridges, Mo'nique, Up, Glee (Best Comedy/Musical on TV), and Mad Men...all winners!)

To my very pleasant surprise the comedy The Hangover beat out the musical Nine, which I thought was a shoo-in for that combined category.

Another nice surprise was seeing Sandra Bullock win for her role in The Blind Side. Also TV kudos to Juliana Marguilles (The Good Wife) and Michael C. Hall (Dexter). Very happy to see them win tonight!

Now I wait for the SAG Awards and the Oscars!!!

Wine Tasting

Oh my gawd! - I was just watching the movie (Studio) 54 the other day. It's like deja-vu or something.

Pics And More Pics

I don't watch any reality television, but by checking out the Que Pasa section of the LMT, I feel like I'm keeping up with the Kardashians.

The Case Against Abe Martinez

In October we heard of a lawsuit filed against former hospital CEO Abe Martinez and Laredo Medical Center. The suit alleges that Martinez was taking money from two doctors over a period of three years. KLDO (Univision) broke the story; Then LareDOS featured it in their publication; and the Laredo Morning Times wrote about it two months after the news broke.

A calendar call was set for January 5, 2010 in the 111th District Court where all parties would settle on a date for trial. Not a peep was made by local media outlets.
Today I learned from the Webb County District Clerk's office that the case was transferred to federal court. No information was related to me concerning the calendar call. As it stands right now, it's out of their hands.

LaSanbe will try to keep up with this case. It might take months, even years, but we've got some time on our hands.

Under Seige?

Has a downtown plaza gone to the dogs?

The local authorities determined to rescue Jarvis Plaza by trying to drive off
delinquents

Mascoting

The mascots just keep coming out of the woodwork. This corn mascot is the face of a tortilla distributor.

Here you see it hassling the patrons of the H-E-B on Guadalupe.

My Favorite Founding Father Was Harry Truman

I don't know what's worse: Glen Beck asking Sarah Palin who her favorite founding father is, or Sarah Palin looking like a deer in the headlights trying to answer the question.

How dare Glen Beck ask such an idiotic question, and how dare he ask it to Sarah Palin's face. Didn't she suffer enough with the likes of Katie Couric?

This must be some kind of litmus test for wingnuts. You answer correctly and you get a flag lapel pin.

People Visit

And they make observations.

While in Laredo, the hordes from Mexico often zero in on the Mall
del Norte, which if one drops the final "l" from 'Mall', can be translated to
the "Evil from the North".

Evil!

Governor's Race

Just because we didn't make the list of cities doesn't mean we're being left out. Right?

B. Dalton's Closing In Laredo

B. Dalton closes its doors for good this weekend. A LaSanbe fan, NotMyFlop, tells us that a farewell event will be held this Saturday. We'll try to make it out there for old times sake.

Another Bomb Threat

The Webb County Justice Center was evacuated on Monday because of a bomb threat. After an hour, everybody was cleared to go back inside. Today, yet again, there was another bomb threat, and a lot of people were none too happy.



Authorities believe the bomb threat was made from a phone outside a laundromat on San Bernardo.

Yellow Train

The dreadful weather continues in the Ole town.

Pulga Wall Sized Flat Screen TV for $300

assembly required...

Inspection Station Expansion

The World Trade Bridge is expanding to improve the flow of trucks coming to America. Several entities and representatives helped see this project through. City Manager Carlos Villarreal chimes in:

This is a perfect example of government bureaucracy at
work.

Funny how he puts a positive spin on the word bureaucracy.

Story/quote via the LMT.

Food

The food stamp program in Texas is the worst. Yay!

does a poor job getting eligible low-income people to apply

Only 55% of those eligible for assistance actually get help.

grocery retailers like H-E-B are missing out on nearly $1
billion a year in food sales

Officials point to curbing fraud in defending the application process. A former state representative cites something else.

She blamed a faulty computer system for contributing to the lengthy
processing time

Texas is having trouble keeping up with the times.

Concierge Care

Last week a local doctor charged us $20 to have a form filled out. I was taken aback by the fee. Physicians must be struggling financially to be charging $20 per page, but oddly enough, this one was a specialist with a steady stream of clients.

General practitioners earn a little less than specialists. To compensate, they have to take on more patients, leading to shorter patient-doctor interaction. But there's a remedy: concierge service, where a person pays a little extra ($1,000+). This is good for the people who have the means, but not for everybody else.

she's not thrilled with a system that charges an annual fee on
top of the payment she's always made

In a county where access to health care is a big problem, this stinks. Perhaps concierge service is not something that would thrive in Laredo; I don't know many people who like to go to the doctor, much less pay an extra grand for exclusive service.

Physicians in Laredo will have to make do, charging $20 here and there.

Bill White In Laredo

I went over to the Mesa 5 reception tonight where Bill White, candidate for governor, made an appearance. He was there!!! You know who also was there? Sheriff Martin Cuellar, Mayor Raul Salinas, Sylvia Palumbo, Judith Gutierrez, Jaime Canales, Sergio Mora, Richard Raymond, Rosaura Tijerina, and so on, and so on.

I got some video!!!



This is the coolest post ever.

Must-See Movie of the Week

My name is Salmon, like the fish. First name, Susie.
I was fourteen years old when I was murdered.

A movie that I've heard a lot of buzz about is finally making its way to the Gateway City, and I really want to see it.

It's a crime drama called The Lovely Bones, and it's directed by Lord of the Rings' chief Peter Jackson. The movie is based on the book by author Alice Sebold (I couldn't find the book at our closing bookstore's clearance shelves, so I haven't read it yet).

From the previews I see a very original looking movie...spectacular visuals. It also has a lot of star power with the likes of Academy Award winners Susan Sarandon and Rachel Weisz (a favorite of KeyRose, FYI); Mark "Don't-call-him-MarkyMark-anymore" Wahlberg; and Stanley Tucci.

I hope it doesn't disappoint. See you after the popcorn line.

Good for you Conan!

Conan is calling it quits!!! He will not bow down to the NBC jerks who don't get rid of Jay Leno for good. He will not settle for being pushed down a half hour later.

Thank you Conan for standing up to those imbeciles, dignity intact.

I said it here on LaSanbe, back in September, that NBC's so-called primetime Leno experiment would be a failure. Unfortunately for real comedy fans, this failure has come at Conan's expense.

I can't WAIT to hear how NBC's gonna fix this mess which they themselves created.
(Check out Conan's monologue from last night where he rips NBC and Leno... funny stuff from a funny guy.)

Love you Conan!

What Would A Committee Do?

Webb County commissioners can't decide whether to pay for Patricia Barrera's legal fees.

After a closed door meeting, commissioners decided to create a
committee to look at Murray Malakoff's bill.

Wasn't it the mayor in The Simpsons that was always creating a committee for everything? The phrase 'passing the buck' seems to apply here on so many levels.

Pizza

I'm a fan of Domino's pizza.

Viscerally suggestive words like cardboard and ketchup are
employed to describe the taste of Domino's pizza.

I know what I'm having for lunch.

Cuellar Lauds New Bridge

CONGRESSMAN CUELLAR AND PRESIDENT CALDERON JOIN AT BORDER TO OPEN INTERNATIONAL BRIDGE

New bridge spans Rio Grande and is the closest U.S. international crossing to Mexico City and Monterrey, Mexico

Washington, DC – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) today joined President Felipe Calderón of Mexico, U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk and U.S. Congressman Ruben Hinojosa to officially open the Anzalduas International Bridge connecting the communities of Mission, Texas and Reynosa, Mexico across the Rio Grande. This new vehicular bridge is the closest international crossing point between Hidalgo County, Texas and Monterrey, Mexico.

“This is a shining moment for the United States and Mexico as we join in international unity to connect our communities once again,” said Congressman Cuellar. “This bridge will promote our mutual trade interests and it will help our citizens move commerce, goods and ideas between our two nations.”

New Mall

The Horizon Group met with city council tonight to talk about renovating the old Riverdrive Mall. Both groups would need to iron out the details, but the City of Laredo would be responsible for building a two-level parking garage immediately south of the facility to the tune of $20 million.

Horizon Group would be responsible for the mall part (in no way associated with El Portal or the Khaledis) and its tenants. The city would later work on a convention center in the area.
Check out the video to see an artist's rendering.

Foxy Roxxxy

Beyond the last gasp of college football action for awhile, last week saw the world's largest geek gathering at the Consumer Electronics show in Las Vegas. Big news were 3D TV sets, portable Internet gadgets yadda, yadda, yadda..

Cutting through this clutter of electronic crap was Roxxxy, "the world's first sex robot". Roxxxy is a life-size rubber doll designed to engage the owner with both conversation and 'companionship'. The negligee-outfitted 'bot (which goes for 7 to 9 Gs) demonstrated her mastery of the English language including phrases like "I love holding hands with you".

The company's spokesman at True Companion LLC further stated that "Sex only goes so far — then you want to be able to talk to the person".

Yeah, whatever.

Mayor's Comment

In today's LMT Business Journal Joe Rutland quotes Mayor Raul Salinas concerning the revitalization of downtown Laredo.

"When you talk about downtown, then you have a good possibility for
a convention center there. I think when you talk about having a convention
center, then it could attract larger conventions when you have the accommodation
available. You could have an outlet center downtown, too."

You could also have a circus with pink unicorns, and a wax museum to immortalize all the Tiger Legends. But seriously, where are you going to put a convention center downtown? I suppose you could turn the old Riverdrive Mall into a convention center. The space is there, on the far west side of the facility. LISD might own it, though.

One thing that I would like to see is B-100 broadcast from atop the Hamilton Hotel again.

Estarellale

If your car decides to give out, at least have the courtesy to leave room for everybody to go around you.