tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62860079803896967092024-02-02T02:11:48.552-08:00blog.brianwestbrook.netThis is the personal Blog home of Brian M. Westbrook. I make no guarantees you will like what you see here -- or receive any value. If you're looking for my radio stuff, it has (for the most part) moved to: <a href="http://tech.brianwestbrook.com">tech.brianwestbrook.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-16058519410635101112011-11-15T11:00:00.000-08:002011-11-15T12:10:16.619-08:00OutQ News: Washington United For Marriage Announces Marriage Equality Fight (11/14/11)<b>Originally broadcast on <a href="http://www.outqnews.com" target="_blank">Sirius/XM OutQ News</a> on 15 November 2011.</b><br /><br />Two years after state lawmakers secured Washington State’s “everything but marriage” law, they have announced plans for the next step.<br /><br />In the Seattle suburb of Bellevue, leaders from various gay rights groups joined together to announce a coalition to continue the fight for full marriage equality in the state. <a href="http://www.washingtonunitedformarriage.org" target="_blank">Washington United for Marriage</a> outlined plans to lobby the State legislature for a gay marriage law. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdHgSGCYNkHTlBU9493EV9NjgApMfVQ-X_QNH2wU89O95zP1CfYDW3QhEIUUsSqUh4ow2roPCZeCcg7B3ihyaeK-MOGq3f6aiQXivKHHfIAA0NIzlaONI1_drOCKPw4mpJ6UquZPkMSrl1/s1600/waunited.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdHgSGCYNkHTlBU9493EV9NjgApMfVQ-X_QNH2wU89O95zP1CfYDW3QhEIUUsSqUh4ow2roPCZeCcg7B3ihyaeK-MOGq3f6aiQXivKHHfIAA0NIzlaONI1_drOCKPw4mpJ6UquZPkMSrl1/s320/waunited.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675315943002925826" /></a>While organizers explain the new law will not grant additional rights and responsibilities, it would remove the stigma associated with same-sex relationships in the Evergreen State. <br /><br />The coalition, comprised of the Human Rights Campaign, the ACLU, Lambda Legal, Equal Rights Washington and dozens of local and regional business groups, recognize a tough road ahead. <br /><br />Equal Rights Washington director Rod Hearne said in a statement that "countless individuals have a story to tell about why civil marriage matters to them." He added that they will work "neighbor-to-neighbor to ensure the voices of the loving and committed couples in Washington, many raising children, are heard.” <br /><br />Despite Democratic control of the Senate and House, along with a supportive Governor, openly-gay State Senator Ed Murray says some conservative Democrats voting against gay rights in past efforts will need to be replaced by Republican votes. <br /><br />Murray told The Seattle Times he will work with the coalition to raise funds and increase public awareness. <br /><br />If gay marriage passes, Washington State would join Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont and the District of Columbia, where those unions are also legal. <br /><br /><b>READ:</b> Full press release from Washington United for Marriage (<a href="http://washingtonunitedformarriage.org/wp-content/uploads/PressRelease-WashingtonUnitedforMarriage-11-14-2011.pdf">PDF</a>)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.siriusoutq.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://outqnews.wordpress.com/files/2009/11/outq-news-logo.png?w=128&h=128" align=left vspace=5 hspace=5 border="0"></a><br><br><b><em>For more on this story, <a href="http://brianwestbrook.com/mp3/outq_washingtonunited_20111115.mp3">listen to my radio report</a> (MP3), as heard on Sirius/XM OutQ News on 15 November 2011:</em></b><br><br><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" flashvars="audioUrl=http://brianwestbrook.com/mp3/outq_washingtonunited_20111115.mp3" src="http://www.google.com/reader/ui/3523697345-audio-player.swf" width="400" height="27" quality="best"></embed>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-21973310816961769502011-10-04T15:00:00.000-07:002011-10-04T16:52:22.340-07:00Uber Hates Gays? (Or just the gay bars?)Let me start by saying that I don't really think the fantastic towncar-hailing elite VIP-style private shuttle service hates those of the homosexual persuasion. In fact, I am personal friends with the author of the blog post I take mild offense to in a moment. <br /><br />But really... <a href="http://www.uber.com/?invite=ahhxg">Uber</a>?<br /><br />Are there no gay bars currently open on Capitol Hill that are worth being seen rolling out of my "private driver" whisk me off to?<br /><br />In a <a href="http://blog.uber.com/2011/10/04/sup-seattle-have-you-heard-about-capitol-hill-tuesdays/">recent blog post</a> offering a five buck discount on Uber's services, author (and, again, my friend) Jen Joyce, Seattle-area Community Manager for Uber, listed five locations: Linda's Tavern, Neumos, Li’l Woody’s, Big Mario's, Grim's and helpful links to two additional Capitol Hill resources: <a href="http://www.capitolhillseattle.com">CHS</a> & <a href="http://www.hillebrity.com/">Hillebrity</a>. <br /><br />Great! What about "The Gays"? How about shout-outs to the homo watering holes: Purr, The Lobby Bar, Cuff Complex, Diesel, R Place, a personal fave Poco Wine Room, or the female-friendly Wildrose (Taco Tuesday anyone!)? <br /><br />Capitol Hill is more than just a gay ghetto, indeed, but the gay haunts were curiously absent in the eyes of this reader.<br /><br />Okay, fine, sure... The Social was given a shout-out, but unless I missed my invitation (always a possibility) there has yet to be a grand opening for this "blessing" of a business. (See, I'm talking about 'em-- does that count?)<br /><br />I love Uber. Uber loves me. (I'm told.)<br /><br />Does Uber love "the gays"? (Or, more specifically, the many predominantly gay establishments on "The Hill"?)<br /><br />Where would you recommend Uber's customers head with their Tuesday evening $5 discount? Wait, it's Tuesday tonight, ehh?<br /><br />Cya on The (Gay) Hill!<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Want to show Uber there's money to be had from the gays on The Hill? Sign up for a $10 discount (and $10 will go into my "more money for drinking" fund as well) here: <a href="http://bit.ly/bmw-uber">http://bit.ly/bmw-uber</a>. (Thanks!)</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-12106272504669003582010-10-05T13:00:00.000-07:002010-10-06T10:20:07.527-07:00Lifelong's Gay Bingo: CanceledThis just in... <br /><br /><a href="http://www.lifelongaidsalliance.org">Lifelong AIDS Alliance</a>, who (via. Chicken Soup Brigade) started the Gay Bingo concept here in Seattle, are not planning to continue the event in 2011.<br /><br />The event, Lifelong interim Executive Director Amanda Madorno tells me, netted "a little over $60k", and the board and staff after internal consideration have decided to focus on events with higher returns. <br /><br /><div align=center><a href="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/Seattle-Events/Gay-Bingo"><img src="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/Seattle-Events/Gay-Bingo/Come-As-Your-Mother-Gay-Bingo/DSC1481/152087605_SxCDf-S.jpg" height=266 width=400 border="0"></a><br><font size=1><i>GLAMAZONIA hosts Come As Your Mother Gay Bingo in May 2007. Photo by Brian M. Westbrook / brianwestbrook.com</i></font></div><br /><br />The non-profit has begun notifying supporters, volunteers and sponsors via. email and phone calls today. An email to the database and official press release are forthcoming, Madorno says.<br /><br />Regarding the future of "Gay Bingo" in Seattle, the organization has "a couple of ideas" and plans to "sit down and talk with people". <br /><br />I'm told the decision was a financial one. <br /><br />There is hope by the organization that a partner will carry on the tradition and the organization focused on helping those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS will remain a beneficiary. <br /><br />You can find photos from previous events on my photo site: http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/Seattle-Events/Gay-Bingo<br /><br />What do you think of the organization's decision to cancel Gay Bingo? Are you disappointed? Will you miss the event? Would you like to see it restarted? Comment away!!<br /><br />More information as the story develops....<br /><br /><b>Update @14:22:</b> Just received this note from Maurice Jones, board president:<br /><br /><blockquote>Dear Friends of Lifelong:<br /> <br />As a supporter of Lifelong AIDS Alliance, you know that for more than 27 years we've been making a significant difference in the lives of people living with HIV and AIDS. We hear daily from those we serve that our services are often the difference in their ability to stay well and receive care. In addition to our housing, insurance, and nutrition services, Lifelong brings hope and dignity to an otherwise vulnerable population.<br /> <br />This has been a year of transition and renewal for us. We've made key changes in staff leadership, increased enrollment in our insurance program by over 400 clients, reduced barriers to housing access, and lowered the number of individuals on our nutrition program waiting list by 100. Throughout, our top priority has been and remains fulfilling our mission to prevent the spread of HIV, as well as to provide practical support services and advocate for those whose lives are affected by AIDS. We have been blessed by the support of people like you - reflecting the impact HIV and AIDS has on so many lives here in our community.<br /> <br />We've also taken a strategic and practical look at how we continue to fulfill our mission in light of current economic realities. Like most nonprofits, we've felt the effects of decreased giving and continuing financial pressures. To ensure we continue to meet the needs of our clients and community, the Lifelong board and senior staff have spent the last three months conducting a strategic review of our programs, services and fundraising efforts.<br /> <br />As we prepare for a future both challenging and rewarding, we have reduced staff, implemented across the board cost-savings, streamlined services and looked at ways to strengthen our fundraising. Through this process, we have made the decision to no longer produce Gay Bingo. Although all of us will miss the fun and energy of Gay Bingo, we know this decision is best for Lifelong and the clients we serve.<br /> <br />The decision to no longer produce Gay Bingo was not easy. In fact, we searched for other alternatives but none made as much financial sense to the agency and our ability to serve our clients. All of us at Lifelong will miss the Gay Bingo events. After 17 years, the history of Gay Bingo and the enjoyment it has brought to so many will always be a part of Lifelong AIDS Alliance.<br /> <br />We bring renewed focus and resources to the fundraising activities that have the greatest financial impact for the clients we serve. We are optimistic and excited at the potential for success as we move ahead with plans for our second annual Community Breakfast in February, our very successful Dining Out for Life event in April, and the 25th Anniversary of the Seattle AIDS Walk & 5 K Run in September 2011.<br /> <br />As part of our Lifelong community, we wanted you to be among the first to know. You have played an important role in the work we do and the lives of people living with HIV and AIDS. We are deeply grateful for your past participation and support and hope that we can continue to count on you as a partner and supporter through these three key events as well as our many volunteer and giving opportunities.<br /> <br />Looking ahead, our goal is to continue - with your generosity and support - to serve the over 3,500 clients annually who depend on us not just for services, but for caring and hope.<br /> <br />Thank you for your joining with us,<br /> <br />Maurice James</blockquote>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-39607252733062002322010-03-10T13:11:00.001-08:002010-03-10T13:11:21.009-08:00"Caring for Our Community" Lifelong Agency Video<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><object height='350' width='425'><param value='http://youtube.com/v/JTd-SlGac0k' name='movie'/><embed height='350' width='425' type='application/x-shockwave-flash' src='http://youtube.com/v/JTd-SlGac0k'/></object></p><p>The folks at <a href='http://www.llaa.org'>Lifelong AIDS Alliance</a>, in conjunction with Seattle's own Sadis Filmworks created this compelling video telling how three lives are affected by the work of this community organization.<br /><br />Consider how you can <a href='http://www.lifelongaidsalliance.org/donate'>contribute</a>.<br /><br />Thank you, Lifelong.<br /></p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-68067097879307058822010-02-08T13:26:00.001-08:002010-02-08T13:26:02.404-08:00Google Ad Spoof: Is Tiger Feeling Lucky Today?<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><object height='350' width='425'><param value='http://youtube.com/v/qcZ-arbR0EE' name='movie'/><embed height='350' width='425' type='application/x-shockwave-flash' src='http://youtube.com/v/qcZ-arbR0EE'/></object></p><p>...cue the knock-offs. </p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-4053024965036497822009-08-18T10:37:00.001-07:002009-08-18T10:37:17.418-07:00Disney D23 Expo Uncovered! Part One: Into the Archives<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><object height='350' width='425'><param value='http://youtube.com/v/at5A3ehDeC0' name='movie'/><embed height='350' width='425' type='application/x-shockwave-flash' src='http://youtube.com/v/at5A3ehDeC0'/></object></p><p>Ya' know when you see someone on camera and discover a whole 'nother side to them?? That just happened when I saw this promo video with my friend (and @GayDaysAnaheim colleague) Jeffrey.<br /><br />Sure they probably had "produce viral video" on the marketing plan, and sure it's a shameless plug for Disney's upcoming D23 Expo at the Anaheim Convention Center Sept. 10-13 (like what I did just there? ;-) )... but this one actually works. And it's h-i-l-a-r-i-o-u-s!<br /><br />Especially when Jeffrey tries to talk to the camera through an exhibit case. Priceless.<br /><br />Check it out and let me know what you think, ehh?<br /></p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-3111151920529413932009-01-21T13:00:00.000-08:002009-03-25T00:00:50.712-07:00Orientation vs. Preference: Why It MattersOften it's the subtleties in life that make all the difference. Individually, quite shruggable. Collectively, contributing to a - perhaps subconscious? - bias.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.kgw.com/news-local/stories/kgw_011909_news_adams_breedlove_relationship.e142c06.html">Today's example</a> comes from a KGW.com (KGW-TV/NBC, Portland) story updating readers about the latest in the Sam Adams debacle currently distracting (consuming?) my second home.<br /><br />The concern begins here (the subject: Mayor Sam Adams):<br /><blockquote>He also said that this was not an issue of sexual preference; rather, it was an issue of a public official lying, in his opinion.<br /><br />"I don't think this is fundamentally an issue about sexual orientation. Other people can debate that," he said. </blockquote><br />In introducing the quote, our writer uses the volatile (and, inaccurate) term "preference". But in the quote itself (admittedly absent the full transcript of Adams' remarks), we see the word "orientation". <br /><br />For reference, from <a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/preference">Dictionary.com</a>:<br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />pref⋅er⋅ence<br /> /ˈprɛfərəns, ˈprɛfrəns/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [pref-er-uhns, pref-ruhns] Show IPA Pronunciation<br />–noun<br />1. the act of preferring.<br />2. the state of being preferred.<br />3. that which is preferred; choice: His preference is vanilla, not chocolate. <br /></span><br /><br />The Associated Press, in its' own <a href="http://www.apstylebook.com">stylebook</a> recommends:<br /><blockquote>Include sexual orientation only when it is pertinent to a story, and avoid references to "sexual preference" or to a gay or alternative "lifestyle.</blockquote><br /><br />(I'd certainly argue the story in question passes the pertinent test.)<br /><br />And, finally -- in all fairness -- KGW.com is by no means the only outlet confusing the word "orientation" with the slight "preference". A quick search of Google News found other <a href="http://news.google.com/news?hl=en&nolr=1&q=%22sexual+preference%22&btnG=Search">examples</a>. <i>(Including a BizJournals.com [as found in Google cache, the story titled: "<a href="http://www.bizjournals.com/portland/stories/2009/01/19/daily38.html">Editorial: Adams must go</a>" appears to now have been removed] editorial on why the Mayor should resign. While I disagree as incorrect the use of the word "preference", in an editorial setting the word choice does give evidence to your position on the matter, context to your bias, and frankly-- a clue we won't agree.)</i><br /><br />I encourage newsrooms everywhere to visit the NLGJA.org website, review the <a href="http://www.nlgja.org/resources/stylebook.html">NLGJA Stylebook Supplement</a> and avoid future offensive and inaccurate mistakes.<br /><br /><B>UPDATE 21 JAN 2009 17:00</B> -- I emailed a copy of this post to KGW.com site editors who quickly wrong back with the following responses:<br /><br />"Thanks for the input, Brian. I looked up correct usage in AP and you are correct." (Eric Adams, story author)<br /><br />"Right you are, it might seem to some like a small distinction but we recognize its importance - it matters to be precise in every aspect of every story, and this has been fixed." (Frank Mungeam, site manager)<br /><br />I'm assured this was an oversight and feel confident the author will avoid making this mistake in the future.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-10410902713902333382008-11-12T16:00:00.000-08:002008-11-12T16:54:54.111-08:00Vote For Me! UPDATE: I won, or... did I?!Regular readers of this blog (big shout out to all three of you!), recall my August post where declaring my <a href="http://blog.brianwestbrook.net/2008/08/vote-for-me-washington-pco-for-87-1895.html">write-in campaign</a> for the position of Democratic Precinct Committee Officer for Washington State Precinct #87-1895. <br /><br />I'm please to announce that I received <a href="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/images/blog/electionletterweb.jpg" target="_blank">this letter</a>, dated 13 October 2008, last month from the King County Elections Division. The letter reads, in part:<br /><blockquote>"At the August 19, 2008, primary and special election, you were elected as SEA 37-1895 Democratic Precinct Committee Officer. A cermonial certificate of election has been sent to the party to which you were elected."</blockquote><br />Congratulations, right? Not so fast... <br /><br />So while I'm waiting for my "ceremonial certificate" (and presumably instructions on how to fulfill my duties as official flier-boy/intern for my fellow Democratic neighbours, today I receive a second letter -- this time from Mr. Dwight Pelz (Chair WA State Democrats) himself.<br /><div align=center><a href="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/images/blog/washingtondemletter-1web.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/images/blog/masthead.jpg"></a></div><br />"I want to thank you for offering to serve as a Precinct Committee Officer (PCO)," Chair of the Washington State Democrats writes.<br /><br />He continues with a boldface slap to my pride, "However, I must inform you that you have not met the threshold for PCO as defined by our State Party."<br /><br />It seems, after reading the complete letter [<a href="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/images/blog/washingtondemletter-1web.jpg" target="_blank">page 1</a> | <a href="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/images/blog/washingtondemletter-2web.jpg" target="_blank">page 2</a>] a few times over (being new to this process, as I suspect many are) that there is some disagreement between what, exactly, it means to be PCO. You see, according to Pelz, Secretary of State Sam Reed waived rules requiring a PCO candidate (via. votes or write-ins) to receive 10% of that of the highest vote getter. <i>(In all likelihood, we're talking 10% of the votes cast for Gov. Christine Gregoire [or Barack Obama?].)</i><br /><br />The best part of this letter, in my opinion, is the justification. Mr. Pelz explains that the reason for this system is: "One person could write in the name of a Republican as a joke and she would be the 'elected Democratic PCO' under these rules."<br /><br />(I digress, but wouldn't it make sense to disqualify the 'bad apples' rather than discourage those, like myself, legitimately interested in the position?)<br /><br />I'm informed that my name has been passed along to a County Chair for possible consideration as an 'Appointed PCO'. (Appointed PCO's, I learn, are not able to vote in Re-Organization Meetings, only those PCO's that were Elected. Discouraging.)<br /><br />I'm no political expert (and if you're counting obvious statements, that's number four), but this entire circus is somewhat frustrating. Either I am the Democratic Precinct Committee Officer, or I'm not... I'm either receiving a 'Ceremonial Certificate' or I'm not... Either I'm the local volunteer representative of the Democratic party... or, well, not... <br /><br />[Before you ask: Yes, I had every intention of serving as PCO and taking the position seriously. I was actually a bit excited to have "won" my write-in candidacy. Until today I was looking forward to serving in my official (pseudo-official?) capacity.]<br /><br />I'll keep you posted. <br /><br />For now, however, I think I'll hold off on any further write-in campaigns until I've sorted this one out. :-/<br /><br />I look forward to your comments, suggestions and similar experiences.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-11106806391447039882008-10-15T14:00:00.000-07:002008-10-15T14:04:38.026-07:00California's Proposition 8 -- My Letter to Calif. Family<span style="font-family: arial;">[This is a copy of the letter I sent to my California in-laws urging them to support efforts to defeat Proposition 8. Do what you can to encourage your relatives, friends, and network to squash this ridiculous attempt at discrimination... --BMW.]<br /></span><blockquote><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Dear Family,</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">You know I'm not a huge fan of email pleas, political campaigning via. email (</span><i style="font-family: arial;">okay, with exception of my <a href="http://blog.brianwestbrook.net/2008/08/vote-for-me-washington-pco-for-87-1895.html" target="_blank">write-in campaign</a> earlier this year which I lost on technicality</i><span style="font-family: arial;">), or other frivolous messages....</span><br /> <b style="font-family: arial;"><br />This is no such message.</b><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">As smart people, you've no doubt heard about the battle raging in California regarding Proposition 8 -- heading for a vote November 4th. Despite any other political views, you've no doubt decided to join those who </span><b style="font-family: arial;">respect the rights of others</b><span style="font-family: arial;"> to defeat this ridiculous measure.... I mean, seriously... what are they thinking!?</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: arial;">What you may not know is how desperate and important the fight to defeat Proposition 8 really is. Your ballot in California will read:</span><br /><blockquote style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153); font-family: times new roman,serif;"> <h3><span style="font-size:85%;"><i>Proposition 8:</i><i><span> ELIMINATES RIGHT OF SAME</span>-SEX <span>COUPLES TO MARRY</span>. INITIATIVE <span>CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT</span></i></span></h3><p> <i>Changes California Constitution to eliminate right of same-sex couples to marry. Provides that only a marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California.</i></p></blockquote> <span style="font-family: arial;">The State of California has the unique opportunity to separate one group of Californians from another and exclude them from enjoying the same rights as other loving couples. This, as I'm sure you will agree, is simply insane.</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: arial;">As you know, Richard and I enjoy our time in California and enjoy visiting as often as we can (as recently as two weeks ago (</span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/GayDaysAnaheim/496327" target="_blank">photos</a><span style="font-family: arial;">)!). While we have no plans to relocate to the State in which we were both born, we'd love to know we would not be discriminated against should our future together bring us back. </span><i style="font-family: arial;"> (And how depressing would it be to get together this holiday season in California knowing that we are being specifically discriminated against... in California... really?!)</i><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: arial;">The nationwide repercussions are even scarier. If the proponents of this effort are successful -- IMAGINE for a moment the momentum this will create in other states such as ours. This is truly a landmark effort that must be stopped NOW.</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I appreciate we can't all open our checkbooks (trust me, I know!), and I -- for one -- am not as famous as </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.noonprop8.com/articles/2008/10/14/ellen-urges-vote-no/" target="_blank">Ellen DeGeneres</a><span style="font-family: arial;"> (yet! ;) )... but we can still help squash this attempt at blatant discrimination. Here's how:</span><br /> <ul style="font-family: arial;"><li><b>Talk.</b> Tell your friends, neighbors, and everyone you meet to VOTE. And to especially vote NO on 8. <i>(CA voter reg. ends 10/20!)</i></li><li><b>Contribute. </b>Give money, volunteer your time to help educate the influential voters that may be led to support the lies.</li><li><b>Educate.</b> Yourself, others -- find out what's at stake and make an informed decision.</li></ul><span style="font-family: arial;">For more information / ideas / to donate: </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.noonprop8.com/" target="_blank">http://www.noonprop8.com/</a><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: arial;">If you promise to help me spread the word among California voters, I'll promise to not send another emotional plea or call to action this election year. If you do </span><i style="font-family: arial;">nothing else</i><span style="font-family: arial;"> this November... </span><b style="font-family: arial;">VOTE NO ON 8.</b><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Or trust me, it's gonna be a </span><i style="font-family: arial;">really</i><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span><i style="font-family: arial;">awkward</i><span style="font-family: arial;"> holiday dinner table! ;-)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Thanks for listening and being smart people,</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">--BMW.</span></blockquote><div align=center><a href="http://www.noonprop8.com"><img src="http://www.noonprop8.com/images/voteno-big.png"></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-5242760703534043192008-10-11T09:00:00.000-07:002008-10-11T09:27:54.804-07:00Happy Coming Out Day!With recent celebrities making public their homosexuality, or "coming out" as it's colloquially known -- it seems each year's "Coming Out Day" just get more relevant.<br /><br />Some resources for those who may be struggling with coming to terms with their sexuality:<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.hrc.org/issues/coming_out.asp">The Coming Out Project</a>, from the Human Rights Campaign helps GLBT, as well as straight-supportive people live openly and talk about their support for equality at home, at work and in their communities each and every day. The resource contains coming out guides, a list of National Coming Out Day events, and helpful information for straight supporters.<br /><li><a href="http://www.trevorproject.org">The Trevor Project</a> runs the nation's only 24/7 "crisis and suicide prevention helpline for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth." The helpline can be reached at 866-4-U-TREVOR. I'm proud to donate my time and efforts each year during Gay Days Anaheim to producing the Wonderland kick-off party where all proceeds benefit this extraordinary organization. Consider making a <a href="https://www.thetrevorproject.org/donation.aspx">donation</a> in honor of those struggling for the acceptance many of us take for granted.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-30354253996457776042008-09-08T22:00:00.000-07:002008-09-08T23:04:02.774-07:00Dick's on Broadway: Closed for "Extensive Plumbing Repairs"Fans of late-night <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dick%27s_Drive-In">Dick's Drive-In</a> location <a href="http://www.ddir.com/store_capitol_hill.html">on Broadway</a> take note: The burger joint will be closed for three days until Sept. 11th for "extensive plumbing repairs". The other locations of the popular local eatery remain open -- and contrary to speculation, there's <b>no reason to be concerned</b> the location made famous by Sir Mix-A-Lot's "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Posse_on_Broadway">Posse on Broadway</a>" song is closing.<br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Dicks_on_Broadway_1.jpg"><img src="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/images/blog/dicksbroadwayphoto_300.jpg" height="214" width="300" vspace="5" hspace="5" border="0"></a><br><font size="1">Photo by Joe Mabel, originally uploaded to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Dicks_on_Broadway_1.jpg">Wikipedia</a></font><br /><br /><i>(Other storefronts along Broadway, including Jack-In-The-Box, have -- as you may have noticed -- closed for Sound Transit light rail station construction.)</i><br /><br />A message left for callers on the Dick's Broadway answering machine explains:<br /><br /><blockquote>"The Broadway Dick's Drive-In will be closed for three days starting Monday September 8th for extensive plumbing repairs we will reopen Thursday Sept. 11th we apologize for any inconvenience. If you'd like to leave a message please wait at the beep."</blockquote><br /><br />From now until Thursday, Queen Anne Dick's (500 Queen Anne Ave. N., 1.7 miles away) is your closest alternative (see map, below). I also recommend In-N-Out -- the nearest is in Redding, California (1275 Dana Drive, 595 miles away) -- as a temporary substitute (<b>not</b> <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&saddr=115+Broadway+E,+Seattle,+WA+98102&daddr=1275+Dana+Drive,+96003&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=47.613292,-122.300093&sspn=0.006437,0.013647&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=6">mapped</a> below).<br /><br /><iframe width="425" height="350" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&saddr=115+Broadway+E,+Seattle,+King,+Washington+98102,+United+States&daddr=500+Queen+Anne+Ave.+N.,+seattle,+wa&hl=en&geocode=&mra=pe&mrcr=0&sll=47.612643,-122.338747&sspn=0.051497,0.109177&ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=47.62152,-122.3388&spn=0.0061,0.03586&output=embed&s=AARTsJqlc_18acyBl3XsamXEM07Uud617A"></iframe><br /><small><a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&saddr=115+Broadway+E,+Seattle,+King,+Washington+98102,+United+States&daddr=500+Queen+Anne+Ave.+N.,+seattle,+wa&hl=en&geocode=&mra=pe&mrcr=0&sll=47.612643,-122.338747&sspn=0.051497,0.109177&ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=47.62152,-122.3388&spn=0.0061,0.03586&source=embed" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">View Larger Map</a></small>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-20879932756892461242008-08-22T07:00:00.000-07:002008-08-22T07:34:07.351-07:00Back-to-School Technology Guide<b>Laptops:</b><br />Smaller, faster and less expensive are the trends in portable computers this year. Apple announced this past year the super-slim Macbook Air, and computer makers on the other side of the aisle were quick to match. Look for <br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2F2133-KX868AT-Mini-Note-Processor-Drive-Vista%2Fdp%2FB00170IAU4&tag=brianwestbroo-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325"><img src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/410a5rr5qZL._AA280_.jpg" border="0" align=left></a>HP 2133 Mini-Note PC -- "Honey?? I shrunk the laptop!" Once you get this (large) paperback-book sized notebook in your hand, you likely won't be able to set it down. Sporting an impressive 8.9" screen, I was especially drawn to the durability of this sub-notebook -- the thing just feels like it can be tossed in a backpack among the school books and gadgets. I will say, use caution when buying -- there are a few different models, the basic configuration comes with an Open Source Linux installation, if you're hoping for a Windows Vista-based machine, it's $100 more. Take a look for yourself <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2F2133-KX868AT-Mini-Note-Processor-Drive-Vista%2Fdp%2FB00170IAU4&tag=brianwestbroo-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325">here</a>.<br /><br />On the Apple side, there are two products worth mentioning. The first, my favoritate, is the super-slim Macbook Air. You've probably seen the launch commercials where it slides, no kidding, out of an envelope. It's eco-friendly and made from recycled parts. The keyboard is perfect for long hours of note-taking, and the brilliant display perfect for unwinding with a movie. <br /><br />Both of these options are best as a second machine. While both are completely capable and run full versions of their respective Microsoft Office software (check with your school for academic pricing), you may consider taking a full-sized computer with large music-storing hard drive and standard keyboard for those all-nighter typing sessions.<br /><br />Other must-haves? An external USB hard drive. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Furl%3Dsearch-alias%253Dcomputers%26field-keywords%3Dpassport%26x%3D0%26y%3D0&tag=brianwestbroo-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325">Western Digital</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=brianwestbroo-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> makes my favorites for around a hundred bucks. Cheap insurance against lost, stolen, or malfunctioning computers. Plug it into the campus computer lab and you're back up and running. <br /><br />Finally, textbooks are an expensive part of any back-to-school budget. There's a great website that lets you rent the essentials, and it works a lot like Netflix. For more information on Chegg.com check 'em out online. They'll even let you keep the books if you decide you can't give it up at the end of the quarter.<br /><br />Listen to this report, originally broadcast on KXL-AM Friday Aug 22: <a href="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/mp3/kxl_techexpert-backtoschool_20080822.mp3">kxl_techexpert-backtoschool_20080822.mp3</a> (MP3)<br /><br /><i>Got questions? Feel free to drop me a line (techexpert (AT) brianwestbrook (DOT) com) and I'll do my best to steer you in the right direction! Happy studying! :-p</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-7018083945843671812008-08-12T17:00:00.000-07:002008-08-12T23:24:10.692-07:00R.I.P. "Kadoka" - Our Family Dog: Sept. '94-Aug. '08With appropriate apologies for dominating this infrequently-used personal blog with memorials (<a href="http://blog.brianwestbrook.net/2008/06/rip-northwest-afternoon-1984-2008.html">previously</a> on this blog), I regret to inform of the passing of my family's first canine: Kadoka. My parents called to share that she had been laid to rest today after prolonged illness and deteriorating health. <br /><br />"Kadoka" was fourteen years old.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">South Dakota Roots</span><br />Shortly after graduating High School, the remaining members of my family (with Sister in college and Dad already there) packed the (ugly) green Ford Taurus, the pop-up tent trailer (yes, we were *that* family) and headed East from Vancouver, WA. Destination: Homestead, AFB, Florida.<br /><br />Years later, I've blocked out most of the trip (as you can imagine) ... but one memory remains vivid: South Dakota. At the time, the State's tourism board offered cassette tapes explaining the various sites and history along Interstate 90. The "rental" was free, so we picked up a set. Along the way we learned more interesting facts about South Dakota than any of us ever thought possible. (Seriously, South Dakota?!)<br /><br />Among the many factoids: The <a href="http://www.blackhillsbadlands.com/kadoka">City of Kadoka</a>, South Dakota is famous (again, we're talking South Dakota here) for it's annual International Outhouse Race (sorry couldn't find a link). After the obligatory round of jokes, puns, and amusements that would make our cassette-tape narrator proud, we collectively came to the conclusion that "Kadoka" would make a great name for our dog. (We liked the name and the story, without trying to extract any symbolism or create correlations between dogs and outhouses.)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Meanwhile, Back in "The 'Couve"</span><br />It wasn't until we (to be fair, I flew ahead) trekked back to Vancouver, WA later that Fall (having deemed the Florida experiment a humid disappointment) that we found the family's first canine. A newborn Shetland Sheepdog puppy. <br /><br />Kadoka was a playful dog, happy and content. Never argued with you, always enjoying company and great with kids. Kadoka was well-traveled and has left her mark on more States than many humans can claim to visit. Kadoka is survived by her two cocker spaniel siblings and a family that misses her already.<br /><br />I learned a lot from that dog... patience, appreciation, and most importantly, an extended appreciation for our <a href="http://www.sd.gov">40th State</a>. <br /><br />Next time you find yourself in South Dakota (after accepting my apologies), think of Kadoka... <br /><br /><br /><i>Yes, I'll post photos when I can find some... </i><br /><br /><b>Update:</b> Thanks to a reader I'm reminded that Tom Brokaw is from South Dakota. Brokaw, as you may know, is something of a hero of mine. I watched him nightly on NBC growing up and he tops he list of "people I'd like to meet". And, for the record, I enjoyed South Dakota -- I've been there a few times... just, well, you know: a bit of a "flyover State". Ehh? ;-)<br /><br>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-25052454829628226392008-08-06T19:00:00.000-07:002008-11-12T16:57:38.305-08:00Vote For Me! Washington PCO for 37-1895<b>UPDATE 11/12:</b> I won... but didn't... but... <a href="http://blog.brianwestbrook.net/2008/11/vote-for-me-update-i-won-or-did-i.html">Read MORE here.</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/images/blog/leg37-1895.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/images/blog/leg37-1895.jpg" height="200" width="222" border="0" align=right vspace=4 hspace=4></a><br />I'm pleased to officially announce my write-in candidacy for position of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Precinct_Committee_Officer">Precinct Committee Officer</a> for Washington State Precint #37-1895.<br /><br />Now, since it's past the deadline for me to have my name on the ballot (dammit!) I'm asking everyone in my neighbourhood to write-in my name and party affiliation ("Prefers Democratic party").<br /><br />Please tell everyone you know in the 12 square block area in the map shown here to add my name ("Brian M. Westbrook") to the ballot as-shown. <br /><a href="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/images/blog/write-in.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/images/blog/write-in.jpg" height="188" width="250" border="0" align=left vspace=5 hspace=10 border=0></a>Your assistance in helping me be elected during the August 19th primary is appreciated.<br /><br /><I>If you would like to help with my campaign, door-to-door efforts, or have ideas that can help me get elected -- please send them to: elect AT brianwestbrook DOT com.</i><br /><br />For more information on the position of Precinct Committee Officer, view:<br /><ul><li><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Precinct_Committee_Officer">Wikipedia: Precinct Committee Officer</a></li></ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-81226573840366113812008-06-10T10:00:00.000-07:002008-06-10T10:35:20.423-07:00R.I.P. Northwest Afternoon (1984-2008)<img src="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/images/techblog/misc/nwa_logo.jpg" align=right vspace=5 hspace=5><br />Word today is that KOMO TV's <a href="http://www.komonews.com/nwa/">Northwest Afternoon</a> will <a href="http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/tv/366399_nwafternoon10.html?source=mypi">soon end its 24-year run</a>. A local talk show produced by Fisher-owned KOMO (Ch. 4 / ABC), "NWA" featured a 15-20 minute "Soap Report" by anchor Cindi Rinehart followed by variety topics ranging from "Ambush Makeovers" to interviews with celebrities, authors and experts. <br /><br /><img src="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/images/techblog/nwa-gadgetsforgals/gadgetsforgals_20080211_09.jpg" align="left" height="180" width="240" vspace=5 hspace=5>As you've no doubt learned from my countless shameless plugs and <A href="http://tech.brianwestbrook.com/search?q=northwest+afternoon">blog posts</a>, I've been a regular guest covering gadgets, websites, and technology for the show. Each time, the entire gang at Northwest Afternoon has been very enthusiastic, supportive and a pleasure to work with -- a far cry from the fake "made-for-TV" pleasantries you might expect.<br /><br />View <i>some</i> of my past appearances on NWA <A href="http://tech.brianwestbrook.com/search?q=northwest+afternoon">here</a>.<br /><br />The show wraps in August to be replaced by the nationally syndicated show "The Doctors," this Fall.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-20096315632424385862008-02-13T14:08:00.001-08:002008-02-13T14:08:19.832-08:00Northwest Afternoon: Gadgets for Gals - Video Replay!<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><object height='350' width='425'><param value='http://youtube.com/v/LUK6G9_VolY' name='movie'/><embed height='350' width='425' type='application/x-shockwave-flash' src='http://youtube.com/v/LUK6G9_VolY'/></object></p><p>As-promised, video of Monday's show. <br /><br />For the full recap and product information, view the original blog posting <br /><a href='http://tech.brianwestbrook.com/2008/02/gadgets-for-gals-today-on-komos.html'>here</a>. </p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-89995370888738124022008-02-11T19:51:00.001-08:002008-02-11T19:51:31.326-08:00Internet Party: When Google's parents leave town...<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><object height='350' width='425'><param value='http://youtube.com/v/VgQMTLKmwrA' name='movie'/><embed height='350' width='425' type='application/x-shockwave-flash' src='http://youtube.com/v/VgQMTLKmwrA'/></object></p><p>Check this out and let me know if you can identify all the partygoers. ;-)</p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-12039902872782608842007-11-09T11:00:00.000-08:002007-11-09T11:05:17.838-08:00My Campaign for One Page Trip Results<strong>I need a haircut.</strong><br /><br /><em>Many "Green" initiatives are complex, involved projects that span multiple agencies and take months to complete. Here's one tip for the Metro KC website that can save precious resources with a few lines of code (or, more likely, a few *less* code). </em><br /><br />My mother is in town. I lent her my vehicle today so she could trek out to Bellevue Square in (as my friends and I refer to the other side of the lake) "Eastern Washington". Hopefully she'll return with plenty of expensive gifts for me. Meanwhile, back to that haircut... I'm heading out of town for the weekend and have a busy week next week. Fortunately, I was able to schedule an appointment with Liana @ noon today. Without my car... I'll be taking the bus. Yay, fun!<br /><br />So I go on to the Metro KC Transit Planner ("Plan Trip" @ <a href="http://transit.metrokc.gov">transit.metrokc.gov</a>) and enter the address of my office (1501 4th Avenue) and that of Liana’s Hair Salon (1125 E Olive Street) with an arrive-by time of 12:00 Noon. The trip results suggest three single-bus itineraries on routes 11, 10 and 49. Sorted! I print the results to take with me… two pages spit out of the printer behind my desk. (See <a href="http://brianwestbrook.com/images/tripplanner.pdf">PDF</a>)<br /><br />The second page is merely footer information and links to "plan a new trip" and invitations to "investigate alternatives". All the essentials are on the first page.<br /><br />Suggestion: Compress the trip results page so that most single-bus itineraries print on one page. I suspect I'm not alone in printing my results – and all those extra wasted pages throughout the Metro transit system could be conserved. A few minutes of simply eliminating line breaks (do we need a solid bar at the top of the results?), reducing font size, or merging some results to one line (could "send feedback", "plan return trip" and "revise original entries" be place on the same line?).<br /><br />Now with page two in the blue bin for each of my outbound and return trips – I'm ready to get my haircut and the world will no longer be subject to my shaggy do.<br /><br />Thanks for listening and joining me in the fight for single-page transit results!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-40642190957061323312007-08-30T07:00:00.000-07:002007-08-30T09:23:09.370-07:00KATU Blogger Meetup: Recap & Photos<i>Syndicated from: <a href="http://blog.brianwestbrook.net">blog.brianwestbrook.net</a></i><br /><br /><a href="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/gallery/3392057#189622268"><img src="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/photos/189622268-S-1.jpg" align=right></a>KATU invited nearly 100 local bloggers to the studios in Southeast Portland for a "meetup". While met with initial skepticism, conspiracy, and as many theories as there were invites, the event was an amazing success! Thanks to the team at KATU for reaching out to the blogging community in stumptown -- for trusting me with the task of corralling the masses and hosting the meetup, the great food and drink, the clever (and useful!) thumb drive-containing gift bags and of course for letting us invade your studios for the evening! <i>(I hope we didn't leave a mess?)</i> More "Thank You" notes in a bit, but for now... <br /><br /><b>The Details</b><br /><A HREF="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/gallery/3392057#189624058"><img src="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/photos/189624058-Th.jpg" align=right vspace5 hspace=5></a>Arriving at the KATU Studios just before 6:30pm, my parking concerns eased with a spot across the street from the <a href="http://blogtown.portlandmercury.com">Portland Mercury</a> offices, and -- more importantly -- the much-anticipated 4-Square tournament (good thing it wasn't a beer-tossing contest!).<br /><br /><A HREF="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/gallery/3392057#189619600"><img src="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/photos/189619600-Th.jpg" align=left vspace5 hspace=5></a>Across the street, bloggers from all genres were shuffling in, registering and receiving name tags. My first impression was that the KATU staff was warm and welcoming -- working wonders at setting any tension or awkwardness at ease (thanks Kristen!). I exchanged greetings with the now-familiar Rob and Terry and made my way back to the studio. <br /><br /><a href="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/gallery/3392057#189619970"><img src="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/photos/189619970-Th.jpg" align=right vspace=5 hspace=5></a>What the room lacked in size, the buffet table redeemed in selection. The traditional fried finger foods were paired with an assortment of meats, cheeses, shrimp, even sushi (though I've never quite been able to stomach the idea of party sushi). KATU's staff of bartenders <i>(perhaps explaining how they get through long wall-to-wall coverage of Pacific Northwest storms?)</i> served up a selection of area wines and Widmer beer. I suspect we made friends among the engineering staff by leaving behind the leftover keg.<br /><br />It's at this point we learn there's an interview for KATU's sister station in the news studio. This temporarily deflates hopes of a group photo on the anchor chair and quality time in Helen and Dave's AM Northwest living room. Fortunately, hope was restored in the form of a quick interviewer and we filed in to the primary broadcast studio.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/gallery/3392057#189621853"><img src="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/photos/189621853-Th.jpg" align=right></a>You've certainly heard about tiny news sets -- this was no exception or surprise. I didn't realize they used the same room for both the local news AND the AM Northwest program. Props to the engineers for making that work every day!<br /><br />I put on my headset for the group photo and more mingling / networking before the night came to a close. I regret that I didn't get to meet everyone, and I won't even *try* to recount all the faces and names I did chat with (with some exception below) -- hopefully you had as good a time as I did and, well ...until we meet again!<br /><br /><b>Shout-Outs:</b><ul><li><a href="http://blogtown.portlandmercury.com">Matt & Scott at Portland Mercury</a> - thanks for the 4-square, next time I promise I'll even play! (if you'll forgive me for the <a href="http://blogtown.portlandmercury.com/2007/08/katu_hosts_local_blogger_party.php">invite snafu</a>?)<br /><li><a href="http://www.richandstephsipe.com">Rich</a> - hopefuly you got at least one decent shot? (I went back to the mic so you could have a second chance. ;-) ) <br /><li><a href="http://portland.metblogs.com/archives/2007/08/live_blogging_m.phtml">Dieselboii</a> - Thanks for inviting fellow bloggers and the great chat.<br /><li><a href="http://www.oregonmediainsiders.com">LynnS</a> - You were as insightful and friendly in person as you appear on your blog - thanks for coming! <br /><li><a href="http://www.theblissquest.com/">Athena</a> - I look forward to the Portland version - where can I get the Seattle book about ghosts? You're brave heading to the basement!<br /><li><a href="http://www.getrichslowly.org/">J.D.</a> - when I win the <a href="http://www.megamillions.com/">MegaMillions</A> <i>($325 million!!)</i> on Friday, I'll come to you for advice!<br /><li><a href="http://zehnkatzen.blogspot.com">Samuel John Klein</a> (and the WifeTM) - You looked like a natural at the anchor chair, did you drop off a resume?<br /><li><a href="http://www.anotherblogger.com/">Aaron</a> (a fellow "RCG") - thanks for reconnecting even though you couldn't make it (congrats on the newborn!). Let's get together soon?<br /><li>To Rob, <a href="http://www.thepomoblog.com">Terry</a>, John, Julie, Kristen, Steve, Deb, and the rest of the KATU staff that made the event possible -- thank you! You were excellent hosts.</ul><br /><br /><b>With that, I say... Let the conversation continue!</b><br /><br /><b>For more coverage of KATU's Blogger Meetup, visit:</b><br /><li>Brian M. Westbrook's <a href="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/gallery/3392057#189622268">photo gallery</a> (including the "<a href="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/gallery/3392057#189622268-L-LB">group photo</a>")<br /><li>Portland Bloggers <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/pdxbloggers/">Flickr group</a> (join the group, share your photos!)<br /><li>Blogtown PDX Four-Square <a href="http://blogtown.portlandmercury.com/2007/08/mercury_parking_lot_foursquare_a_raging_success.php">game highlights</a> (bonus: animated photo)<br /><li>Terry Heaton's PoMo Blog: <a href="http://www.thepomoblog.com/archive/bloggers-meet-in-portland/">Bloggers Meet in Portland</a><br /><li>Oregon Media Insiders declares: <a href="http://www.oregonmediainsiders.com/node/1327">"KATU Is My New Best Friend"</a> (<i>Can I have your energy drink? ;-) </i>)<br /><li><i>...did you write about the meetup? Tag your post "katumeetup" so we can all find it. Drop me a note and I'll add to this list. Unless you have bad photos of me, then tag your post "awfulphotoofbmw" so I can filter out the horror. </i> :-p<br /><br />Thanks again to everyone who came out -- it was a pleasure to meet such a diverse and passionate group of bloggers.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-87137467908551884542007-07-11T13:00:00.000-07:002007-07-11T14:26:24.208-07:00Gay.com signs up Bill Gates<img src="http://www.planetoutinc.com/images/logo_corp.gif" align=right vspace=5 hspace=5>According to the <a href="http://blog.seattlepi.nwsource.com/microsoft/archives/117473.asp">Seattle PI</a> (and various wires), Microsoft Co-Founder Bill Gates has recently, through his Cascade Investment arm, invested in <a href="http://www.planetoutinc.com/">Planet Out, Inc</a> (parent company of Gay.com, OUT & Advocate magazines, RSVP Cruises, others). <br /><br /><i>This begs the question: Did Gates get a free premium membership to <a href="http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2407784-10275822" target="_top">GAY.COM</a><br /><img src="http://www.lduhtrp.net/image-2407784-10275822" width="1" height="1" border="0"/>? Will he be a guest on the next <a href="http://www.rsvpvacations.com/">all-gay cruise</a>? </i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-63480997449320183772007-05-16T12:00:00.000-07:002007-05-16T12:16:56.359-07:00Phrase-That-Pays for 20070516Overheard (while preparing for a demo at a local tech company):<blockquote>"Anyone got a Mac Dongle?"<br />"Is that a new type of sandwich?"</blockquote><br />Check back soon for more "Phrase That Pays". :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-5396110732685324842007-05-15T14:00:00.000-07:002007-05-15T14:34:16.931-07:00Will Wikle interviews The View's Elisabeth HasselbeckWill Wikle is host of LOGO's Round Trip Ticket (<span style="font-style: italic;">a runner-up to my dream job of hosting The Amazing Race</span>) and Radio With A Twist (<a href="http://www.gaydaysanaheim.com">Gay Days Anaheim</a> sponsor). He sat down recently to interview Elisabeth Hasselbeck on the set of The View. Hasselbeck is the conservative voice of the daytime talkshow on ABC. The two blonde had an interesting "hot topic" dialog about Rosie's replacement, gay rights... and more. Jason Bellini, the gorgeous anchor of CBS News on LOGO, is Will Wikle's boyfriend and host of the online video blog "Here and Now". View Jason's <a href="http://logo.blogs.com/hereandnow/2007/05/tototoe_with_ha.html">video blog</a> for Will's interview on the set of The View<br /><br /><a href="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/gallery/1992042/83/101679977#101679977"><img src="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/photos/101679977-Th-1.jpg" alt="Will Wikle and Jason Bellini at Gay Days Anaheim 2006 photo by Brian M. Westbrook - click for more" align="middle" border="0" height="100" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="150" /></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%20http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/gallery/1988132#102087592%20"><img src="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/photos/102087592-Th-2.jpg" alt="Will Wikle and Brian M. Westbrook at Gay Days Anaheim 2006 photo by Brian M. Westbrook - click for more" align="middle" border="0" height="100" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="150" /></a><br />Will Wikle (L), Jason Bellini, and Brian M. Westbrook (R) at Gay Days Anaheim (photos by Brian M. Westbrook)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-76199785217414441022007-05-11T17:03:00.000-07:002007-05-11T17:13:54.879-07:00American Idol Finalist Blake Lewis in Seattle<P align=left><a href="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/photos/151710608-L.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/photos/151710608-S.jpg" align=left vspace=5 hspace=5 border="0"></a>American Idol Finalist <b>Blake Lewis</b> stopped by Westlake Center in Seattle today. I snapped some <a href="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/gallery/2833436/#151684601">photos</a> from the 16th floor of Century Square and had the photos featured on Q13fox.com (local website for FOX affiliate). I've decided I should bring my Nikon digital SLR to work more often. :) You can see the complete gallery on my photos site <a href="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/gallery/2833436/#151684601">here</a> or visit the q13fox.com page for more on Blake Lewis' American Idol "Hometown Visit" <a href="http://q13.trb.com/news/kcpq-051107-blakevisit,0,2889137.story?coll=kcpq-news-1">here</a>. <i>(They've recorded bits during the visit for broadcast on American Idol -- check local listings!) </i><br><br><a href="http://photos.brianwestbrook.net/gallery/2833436/#151684601">More photos of American Idol finalist Blake Lewis' Seattle visit</a><br /><br><a href="http://www.hunkdujour.com/blog/archives/2007/03/blake_lewis_american_idol.asp">Read my friend Chris' blog posting on Blake Lewis (Hunkdujour.com)</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-7542278259594621672007-03-07T12:00:00.000-08:002007-03-23T12:35:57.518-07:00Silverado: Gay strip / dance bar in PDX about to close... :(From Just Out (Portland):<br /><br />http://www.justout.com/archives/issues/03_02_07/14.pdf<br /><br />Seems Silverado is the latest establishment on the condo-redevelopment chopping block.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6286007980389696709.post-1740417441802918452007-03-05T15:00:00.000-08:002007-03-05T15:58:02.394-08:00Hijacked Myspace page could mean trouble for everyone<i>Tech Expert Bonus Post</i><br /><br />It might not be a jumbo jet, but a hijacked Myspace page can open the door to many problems -- identity theft, stolen data, or an inbox full of spam. It can affect not only the owner of the hijacked Myspace page -- but anyone who visits the page.<br /><br />Since I get asked this question quite a bit -- I figured I'd post (if anything so I can point users here rather than re-typing the story... lazy? yup!).<br /><br /><b>Background</b><br />Typically the Myspace hijack is introduced when a page owner decides to pimp their profile out with one of the many available "free layouts" abundant on the web. Installing this code on your page can introduce a trojan-like code that will result in those visiting the site in being phished of their myspace login. Here's how...<br /><br /><b>Threat Details</b><br /><img src="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/images/myspace_pagehijacked.jpg" height="490" width="320" align="right" border="0" vspace=5 hspace=5> While browsing Myspace (or a similar site), an unsuspecting user / victim clicks a link appearing to be from a myspace "friend" (often this link is to "Send Message" or "Add as a Friend". (See screenshot with this post, personal information hidden to protect the innocent.) The link you click then prompts you with a "you must be logged in to do that" page... and without too much thought... ("oh, myspace must've logged me out or something, right?")... . and without checking the URL (i.e. look for "login.myspace.com"), you've actually provided your myspace login information to the bad guys (who then cleverly re-direct you to the content you originally requested / your myspace home / someplace else that seems logical and doesn't raise your suspicion). The bad guys can now post bulletins / messages as YOU and spread the illegitimate login link to other victims...but wait, there's more... <br /><br />Now where this gets *really* bad is when you've used the same password in myspace as you have for your email account.<br /><br />Let's say your Myspace login is your email address (myspace@yourdomain.com) and a password (hijackvictim). If you, like many other users, have set your myspace password to be the same as your email password... I (representing evil-doers everywhere) can now log into your email account. Muhahaha....<br /><br />And, as I'm sure you know, once I've got access to your email address... I can use the "forgot my password' link for a variety of sites -- obtaining access to bank accounts, ebay, etc. etc... <i>(Click <a href="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/mp3/kxl_techexpert-identitytheft_20070212.mp3" target="_blank">this link</a> [mp3] for my 12 Feb 2007 report for Newsradio 750 KXL on identity theft.</i><br /><br /><b>Recommendation</b><br />My suggestion: Change your myspace password immediately to something VERY DIFFERENT from anything else associated with that email address. Change every other login that uses the same password to something new and unique to your myspace account -- do it now.<br /><br />While not foolproof, some users pick a default password ("D0n't@sk!" and change it for every site... slighty... say, "D0n't@sk!a" for myspace.com since "A" is the first vowel... something you can remember, but that keeps your passwords unique... it's a start. <i>(For more on good password techniques, listen to my report from 19 Feb 2007 <a href="http://www.brianwestbrook.com/mp3/kxl_techexpert-pharming_20070219.mp3" target="_blank">here</a> [mp3])</i><br /><br /><br /><b>Quick Tips:</b><ol><li>Change your myspace password to something unique (even if you don't think you've been hijacked, change it now!)<br /><li>Don't use the same password for myspace as you do email, bank accounts, etc. (this is good advice in general, but especially for sites like myspace)<br /><li>If in doubt, follow these steps: Open a new browser window to the site you're trying to view.<br /><li>Just because it *looks like* Myspace (or your bank's site, etc.) -- doesn't mean it is!<br /><li>Avoid clicking links in emails or online messages from strangers (and even then, do so with caution!)<br /></ol><br /><br /><b>For more on this story, visit:</b><ul><li>OnGuardOnline.gov Phising page - <a href="http://www.onguardonline.gov/phishing.html">http://www.onguardonline.gov/phishing.html</a><br /><li>FTC (anti-)Spam site - <a href="http://ftc.gov/spam/">http://ftc.gov/spam/</a><br /></ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0