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10 Unsung Black Inventors You Should Know

Site Administrator — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 04:15:29 +0000

It's amazing how a just a little bit of curiosity and a whole lot of discipline has, over time, produced so many of the modern-day tools and technologies we take for granted. The fact that many of the world's greatest inventors were or are African-American is a fact that shouldn't be lost, but acknowledged and celebrated, so that young people of all colors will have role models to inspire their own scientific and creative pursuits. Here are 10 African-American men and women, from the worlds of science, engineering, and even music, and the inventions they brought to the world.

Garrett Morgan (1877-1963)

In 1914, Garrett Morgan patented what he called the safety hood, the first practical version of what would become the modern gas mask. Morgan's invention consisted of a canvas hood, a double tube extending from the hood merging into a single tube at the back, and a sponge soaked with water that filtered and cooled incoming air. The safety hood saved the lives of countless firefighters and others, including several rescued by Morgan himself in a 1916 tunnel fire beneath Lake Erie.
Elijah McCoy (1843-1929)

Elijah McCoy's mother and father were both slaves who had managed to escape to Canada. His fascination with the mechanical devices used on his family's farm prompted his parents to send him to school in Edinburgh, Scotland to study mechanical engineering. After returning to Canada, he relocated to Michigan, and patented a self-regulating lubricator that helped protect and seal the cylinders and pistons of the steam engine trains, the country's newest and most efficient form of transportation. Other inventors tried to copy McCoy's invention, but none worked as effectively, prompting customers to request "the real McCoy," an expression that became a part of our contemporary vernacular.
Osbourne Ruddock aka "King Tubby" (1941- 1989)

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1941, Dub producer King Tubby parlayed his expertise in electronics into a career as a DJ and engineer, pioneering an optimal outdoor sound system that included separate amplifiers to boost various frequency ranges of the "dub-plates" (records) he played. He was also the first to employ his own customized sound processing in performance, including reverb and echo effects. Repairing electronics and building amplifiers helped King Tubby finance his home studio, where he developed many of the mixing and remixing techniques now taken for granted in today's music industry.
Otis Boykin (1920 – 1982)

Otis Boykin went on to a successful career as an inventor after dropping out of graduate school due to financial hardship. Fascinated by electronics, Boykin created a wire precision resistor for use in radios and televisions to regulate the flow of electric current. A second resistor he invented was able to function efficiently in spite of extreme changes in temperature, physical pressure and trauma. It was also inexpensive to manufacture, and was used extensively by the United States military and IBM. After relocating to Paris in 1964, Boykin invented a control unit for the pacemaker, which uses electrical impulses to create a steady heartbeat.
Madame C.J. Walker (1867 – 1919)

Sarah Breedlove McWilliams Walker was born to former slaves, orphaned at age 7, married at age 14, and widowed two years later. In spite of early hardships, she became the country's first female African-American millionaire, founding a successful corporation to sell hair care and cosmetic products invented by Walker for women of color. She is quoted as saying, "I am a woman who came from the cotton fields of the South. From there I was promoted to the washtub. From there I was promoted to the cook kitchen. And from there I promoted myself into the business of manufacturing hair goods and preparations. I have built my own factory on my own ground."
Earl Palmer (1924-2008)

On a recording session with maniacal singer pianist Little Richard, New Orleans drummer Earl Palmer, widely recognized for introducing the backbeat to popular music, invented a new type of drumming that would define the groove of modern rock and roll. The song was "Lucille," and it was driven by a relentless pounding of steady eighth notes from Richard at the piano. For his part, Palmer switched up his technique, leaving behind shuffle or "swing" rhythms, and imitated the motor-like grind of Richard's piano playing. The beat he invented defined how rock would be played, setting the stage for the heavy and psychedelic rock of the 1960s.
Patricia Bath (b. 1942)

Ophthalmologic surgeon, inventor, and activist Patricia Bath invented the Laserphaco Probe, a surgical tool that vaporizes cataracts so that a replacement lens to be inserted. Patented in 1988, the probe has restored sight to people who were blind for years. After observing and documenting the disproportionate number of blind or visually impaired African-Americans in her community, Bath worked to bring eye surgery services to Harlem Hospital's Eye Clinic which, thanks to her efforts, now provides quality eye care to thousands of patients.
Mark Dean (b. 1957)

Born in Jefferson City, Tennessee, where as a child other kids would tell him that being smart must mean he wasn't black, inventor and computer scientist Mark Dean is the first African-American to become an IBM fellow. Along with his colleague Dennis Moeller, Dean developed the Industry Standard Architecture systems bus, which allows peripheral devices, including modems and printers, and later video gear, speakers, and scanners, to be connected to a personal computer. The invention made the PC an affordable purchase for the home or office. In the world of computer engineering, Dean has encountered racism, but says he has never met an issue that "I couldn't run right through or just go around."
Granville T. Woods (1856 – 1910)

Born in Columbus, Ohio, Granville T. Woods was known in his time as the "black Edison," in reference to fellow inventor Thomas Edison, whose lawsuit against Woods' patent for the synchronous multiplex telegraph he defeated. Woods also turned down Edison's offer to make him a partner, as he preferred and was achieving recognition and success on his own. He developed many inventions for the railroad industry, including a power pick-up device that is the basis for the "third rail" used by today's electric-powered transit systems, including the New York City's subways.
Valerie Thomas

In 1980, Scientist and inventor Valerie Thomas patented the illusion transmitter, a device that receives, transmits, and projects images in such a way that they appear to be three-dimensional. The transmitter's technology, first used by NASA, is now being developed for use in surgery, as well television broadcasts, which is exactly what Thomas imagined would happen when she first began her experiments in 1977. Thomas was one of only two female physics majors to graduate Morgan University. And before college, she received very little encouragement to explore and study scientific subjects. With this in mind, Thomas has made hundreds of visits to schools to encourage young people, black or white, male or female, to explore their potential in the field of science.

10 Biggest Nerd Gatherings in the World

Site Administrator — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 04:27:41 +0000

For the majority of the year, the most serious nerds among us are shut away in dark rooms or basements in front of computer screens and games of Dungeons and Dragons. But every once in a while, the mothership seems to call them all home, at least for the length of a convention or other kind of meet-up. You'll see Star Wars characters and gamers in a trance, flocking to event sites. Now, we're not going to delve into the differences between geek and nerd culture. If you want to argue about it, we can probably assume that you fall into one of those two categories and will find a gathering you'll love below.

Comic-Con International

This famous meet-up in San Diego typically draws in more than 125,000 lovers of comic books, sci-fi, and basically anything that might get you beat up in high school. Welcoming nerds since 1970, Comic-Con has grown into a huge cultural phenomenon, attracting the media, comedians, and curious members of the public, as well as fans of the many pop culture elements the convention caters to. Apparently these nerds and nerd-watchers aren't sparing any expense; the convention has an annual impact of around $160 million on the regional economy. If you're going, buy tickets early as they tend to sell out, plan which workshops you want to attend, and don't forget your camera.
Tokyo International Anime Fair

As a trade fair for the anime industry that takes place in the home country of anime, you know this event lures in the best and most famous anime companies and creators in the world. Though it's only been around since 2002, the support of Japan's government and powerful politicians have helped its attendance skyrocket to the 130,000 people it has seen in recent years. Prestigious industry prizes, known as the Tokyo Anime Awards, are given out during the convention. While anime and manga may not be considered nerdy in Japan (and many American fans would contend that it's not nerdy anywhere), it's hard to deny that there's a specific demographic of people that follow the Japanese animation trend.
Dragon Con

Each year crowds pushing 50,000 converge on Atlanta to consume as much about the sci-fi, fantasy, and comic book industries as their little (or big, as the case may be) brains can hold. With a long list of prominent guests and performers, contests for everything from different types of costumes to robot battles, and an independent film festival, this event is perfect for those who really enjoy any of the categories covered here and want to mingle with other fanboys. Been looking for the chance to enter a Star Trek pageant or show off your comic book sketching skills? This is your arena.

Assembly demo party

If you don't know what a demo party is, well, you're in good company. The demoscene is a computer programming subculture where participants create audio-visual presentations to show off their skills and creativity. Don't even try to act like that's not nerdy. A demoparty is normally a several-days-long event where programmers get together to compete against each other by creating the best "demo" in several different categories. The Assembly is one of the largest demoparties and takes place in Finland. Thousands of the most demoscene-obsessed from around the world gather to compete and hang out for three or four days.
DreamHack

Computer lovers and multiplayer gamers should put DreamHack in Sweden on their list of events to attend sometime in their life. The gathering, which is considered the world's largest computer festival, actually holds world records for being the largest LAN (or local area network for you non-gamers) party with 12,754 connected computer systems and for having the world's fastest Internet connection. The event is held twice a year, lasting 72 hours each time with activities scheduled around the clock. The fun includes the festival where attendees can plug their computers into the system, several gaming and digital arts competitions, concerts, and an expo for the latest technologies.
International Consumer Electronics Show

While most people head to Vegas to have a scandalous good time with scantily clad showgirls and high-stakes poker tables, a large segment of the nerd population go there for the annual technology trade show. Since major products like the VCR, Nintendo, and 3D HDTV have been introduced at the event in years past, it has become a haven for technophiles around the world. The most recent gathering boasted 153,000 attendees and demonstrated some improved technologies, like an accelerated processing unit that you would probably only understand if you're a huge computer nerd yourself. Don't feel bad if you are; at least a computer nerd is one of the more profitable breeds of nerd.
Anthrocon

It's hard to say that anthropomorphic fans fit in with traditional nerds, but it's definitely not a mainstream interest. Furry fans or furries, as they're often called, love fictional human-like animal characters. This includes any animal that walks, talks, dresses, or otherwise acts like a human. While this might be normal for children considering how many books and cartoons involve talking animals, this conference is for the obsessed adults, many of whom dress up as their favorite anthropomorphic fantasies, costumes that they call fursuits. You might think you were walking into a sports team mascot convention if you didn't know where you were. While there are other furry conferences around the country, Anthrocon is one of the largest, with more than 4,200 members.

Comiket

Possibly the largest gathering of comic-book nerds on the planet, with more than 500,000 participants each year, Comiket is a huge market for selling self-published comic books, particularly Japanese ones. It takes place in Tokyo twice each year and crowds get so thick that people who arrive in the morning normally wait between one and five hours in line just to enter. Unlike many other nerd gatherings, the audience at this event has traditionally been mostly female, though the tides seem to be turning in the past two years. Whether it's men or women buying these unique comic books, they can expect to resell them for much more than they purchased them for since reprintings are few and far between.
Gamescom

Gamescom in Cologne, Germany, is widely recognized as the world's largest games event. More than 275,000 nerds and 5,000 journalists (who might also be nerds for all we know) show up each year, and companies show up from 39 countries to show off their gamer gear. Since the world's biggest video game fans and industry experts are all together in one place, many game developers, including Nintendo, Sega, and EA, use the opportunity to show off and test their newest toys. And you can't deny the hilarity of the eager attendees rushing into the event space when the doors open, which has been affectionately named "The Running of the Nerds."
World Joyland

What do nerds do in the time between their favorite conventions? They plan vacations to video game-themed amusement parks. China's World Joyland is a 600-acre theme park based around the works of the company that created World of Warcraft and Starcraft. The park definitely attracts large numbers of geeks. The day before the park's grand opening, it arranged to break the world record for most people dressed up as comic book characters. They succeeded, with 1,530 nerds showing up for the task. Another 201 people were disqualified for dressing as characters from video games or other forms of entertainment. It must be depressing to be disqualified from being a part of the comic-book nerd community.

10 Surprisingly Hot Cross-Dressing Movie Characters

Site Administrator — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 04:33:04 +0000

Androgyny may be the future, but cross-dressing is just so now. Albert Nobbs opens widely today, and saddled with Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress Oscar nominations for the impenetrable Glenn Close and the ever-fantastic Janet McTeer, gender-bending once again takes a front-row seat in cinema — just in time for awards season. Although gender identity and performance are relatively new fields of academic study, cross-dressing has been a mainstay of the theater for millennia. Sometimes it's to highlight a societal disparity (in the case of Albert Nobbs, the main character must cross-dress to maintain gainful employment in 19th century Dublin), sometimes it's to facilitate a narrative arc or showcase an actor's breadth of talent, and sometimes it's just for fun — but cross-dressing is older than many religions, and it's here to stay. So be cool, and do yourself a favor: check out these ten surprisingly hot cross-dressing movie characters. Spoiler alert: they're not the gender you think they are…

Girl In Love Who Plays Boy In Love Who Plays Girl In Love in Shakespeare in Love

Mirroring drag tropes present in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, Shakespeare In Love is a vehicle for Best Actress Oscar winner Gwenyth Paltrow's on-screen (and on-stage) beauty to shine. Surprisingly hot about this performance? Said beauty shines even through that ill-placed pube-esque goatee. And, get real: fictional 1590s actor Thomas Kemp did not have a relaxed spiral perm, even when playing Juliet. Although moviegoers were aware of the ruse the entire film, the Queen (played by the unparalleled Dame Judy Dench) is fairly hip for not exposing the pair of lovers to the rest of the upper crust of Elizabethan London.
Girl Who Plays Boy And Helps Other Girl Who Plays Boy Accept Him/Herself

Dressing in drag is long-standing Oscar fodder, and transvestism can be brash or brilliant — sometimes both. Enter: Janet McTeer. The poetic actress who dazzles on stage and screen plays Hubert in the Glenn Close passion project Albert Nobbs. A biological female and painter who identifies comfortably as a male and has taken a wife, McTeer's Hubert is as confident and alive as Close's titular character is stoic and stilted. And no matter the gender identity, confidence is always hot.
The Girl Pee-Wee Who Is Hotter Than The Male

In Pee-Wee's Big Adventure, Paul Reubens looks surprisingly cute and comfortable (the last ten seconds of this video are a scream) while impersonating a female to out-wit a cop. Whether it's the shapeless vintage dress, the fun hair, or just the coy attitude, Girl Pee-Wee is much like Girl Bugs Bunny — cuter, and a bit more fun, than the original.
Drag Director

You can't make a top ten list about hot people without Johnny Depp. And you certainly can't make a top ten list about surprisingly hot performances without including Depp's work as the oft-cross-dressing cult film director Ed Wood. Playing a real-life transvestite of weird brilliance, Depp's performance turns this biopic into a respectful nod to a man who gave cinema much, whether wearing rouge and blonde wigs or not.
Girls Who Play Boys Who Play Girls Who Lip-Sync To Girls But Are Actually the Girls Singing

Nia Vardalos and Toni Collette play Connie and Carla, a pair of musical theater-obsessed BFFs that become fake drag queens to hide from some mob killers. Although it's not entirely obvious if these ladies are hot as women or hot as women playing men in drag, that's part of the surprise. You'll just have to watch to find out.
Boy Who Dresses Like Girl Who Named Self After Wine

Loudmouth, tell-it-like-it-is Lady Chablis is infamous in the Southern United States. "If you need a label," she says of her transvestism, "just stick with B*TCH!" Playing herself in the movie based on the novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, the Lady's interpretation of class, and her signature sass, have turned her into a bona fide gender-bending sex symbol, and a surprisingly hot voice for small Georgia town African-American transvestites with balls of brass and hearts of gold.
Party Drag (With Party Drugs)

You can't have Shakespeare, it seems, without having a little cross-dressing. In Baz Luhrmann's updated version of Romeo + Juliet, Harold Perrineau brilliantly executes the role of Romeo's best friend, Mercutio. Introducing himself by providing Ecstasy to the Montagues and then brilliantly lip-syncing "Young Hearts" to a raucous Capulet party they're crashing, this character's glitter and glitz are both surprisingly edgy and hot. And Perrineau's dance training came in handy when he had to don platform heels and gyrate around — he looks much better than lots of club-goers, be they women or men or somewhere in between.
Trio of Fairly Serious Male Actors Dressing Up Like Girls

John Leguizamo, Wesley Snipes, and Patrick Swayze completely disappear into their roles as a trio of road-tripping drag queens in To Wong Foo Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar. Fun, vulnerable, and surprisingly beautiful, these three actors proved that you can be masculine and still be feminine — and what matters the most is being human.
Justin Bieber Impression

Androgyny is standard sexiness fare for the younger generations. And if you're into Justin Bieber, you're probably into Amanda Bynes as Sebastian, a girl-masquerading-as-her-twin-brother in a new high school in She's The Man. Donning a bowl-cut and dealing with the evergreen issues of cute boy trouble and high school life through a girl dressed as a boy's eyes, Bynes is surprisingly uplifting, and probably hot — if you're a Belieber.
Singer/Scientist/Sweet Transvestite Who Is Really An Alien Who Is Really A Boy Dressed Up As A Girl (aka The Gold Standard)

No one, not no one, not no one is hotter than Tim Curry in The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Effortlessly doing jumps to the left and steps to the right in tranny heels and bustiers that outshine even the most practiced in the cross-dressing performing arts, there's just no beating Dr. Frank N. Furter, the undisputed King … of Queens.

10 Sleep Hacks for the Avid Traveler

Site Administrator — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 04:21:37 +0000

On a train, in the rain. When on planes, energy wanes. Whether you're a business traveler, a posh international jetsetter, or a college kid with dreadlocks and a ratty old backpack, travel can be both stressful and fun. No matter your modus operandi for seeing the world, one of the key elements to successful travel is the inclusion of sound and restful sleep. Before you complain about not having the time for a decent doze, consider these 10 sleep hacks, both digital and analog, especially tailored to the avid traveler. In the words of William Wordsworth, "rest and be thankful."

Downers

Maybe not the net healthiest way for long-term sleeping problems, but popping pills certainly can work wonders when you're on the road. Be they hard-core narcotics, over-the-counter sleep aids, or herbal remedies like melatonin, a pharmaceutical sleep aid is sometimes the only thing that you have access to on-the-go. Avoid using both uppers to promote wakefulness and downers to help you sleep, and avoid relying on these methods for more than a few days at a time.
Caffeine Nap

If you're a world traveler, or even just a business one, it's highly likely that you drink coffee or tea at least once per day. Consider, then, the caffeine nap. Down a cup of coffee in the afternoon and take a 20 minute nap as a chaser. Caffeine takes about 30 minutes to activate in your body, and you should wake after a cat nap with a burst of energy and euphoria. Be sure to set your alarm to wake you, just for extra insurance, and enjoy increased productivity and decision-making capabilities.
Neck Pillow

For the less pharmaceutically inclined traveler who is often using public transportation (planes, trains) for your travel or commutes, try employing the use of a neck pillow. Relieving neck pressure can help induce better quality sleep, meaning better rest and increased energy and alertness upon waking. Breathable memory foam and buckwheat are popular materials; just about anything is better than an airplane pillow or crumpled-up jacket.
Pzizz

The Pzizz Energizer is an audio engine computer program that produces frequencies meant to induce sleep for a limited amount of time. Producing unique modules every time you rest, Pzizz can aid in all sleep types — from a power nap to the deepest of sleeps. Originally a desktop application that is now available on mobile devices, Pzizz is priced between $5 and $6.
Lay Off the Sugar and Carbs

Beginning your day with refined or processed sugars and complex carbohydrates facilitates an afternoon crash. Especially if you've been indulging heavily during your travels, decide against a carb-infused or highly sugary breakfast in the morning. You will be less likely to experience a sloth-inducing sugar crash, as well as enjoying more restful sleep, even if all you have the time for is a disco nap.
Pro Tip: To stimulate your adrenal glands upon waking, drink a large glass of water mixed with a teaspoon of sea salt.
Hydrate

Water, as much as oxygen, is the stuff of life. To avoid jetlag and interrupted sleep during your travels, make sure that you begin and remain well-hydrated throughout commutes. Hydration cures many ills, and can be an immeasurably important, oft-overlooked tool in the fight for restful sleep.
Alternate Nostril Breathing

When attempting to induce your pre-dreamland calmness, try the ancient practice of alternate nostril breathing. Simply placing one knuckle over your left nostril, taking several deep breaths through your right nostril, then reversing, can psychologically prompt you to induce your neurological pre-sleep routine.
Pro Tip:Don't try this at the office.
Starve Yourself and Don't Sleep

You can't make this stuff up. A study from Harvard Medical School suggests that, scientifically, the best thing that you can do to reset your internal sleep clock to a new time zone is to remain awake for 12 to 16 hours, while also abstaining from food in the hours leading up to this sleep fast. Remember that daylight resets you, so make sure to do this on a day when you can get some sun. Refrain also from caffeine, alcohol, and copious use of tobacco during this time. Bonus: the extra wakefulness is sure to make you so tired, that you'll be sleeping like a baby before you can say "jet lag."
Dress for (Sleep) Success

The businesswoman in the three-piece wool suit is sleeping better than you are in your most comfortable sweatpants. Why? Temperature. Your body's temperature has much to do with your quality of sleep. Your polyester sweatpants and unbreathable fabrics, comfortable though they may be, are hurting you, not helping. Take off your socks and shoes to expose (well-washed, please) feet on an airplane; eschew the scratchy blankets for which some airlines are charging upwards of $10. Opt for a jacketless rest in a business suit, rather than a track one, and you'll be asleep in no time flat.
Practice Polyphasic Sleep

A mainstay of the professional sleephacker's wheelhouse, polyphasic sleep is a method in which one forgoes most or all of the night's sleep, or "core hours," in exchange for a series of power naps throughout the day. This alternative resting method, of which there are many incarnations, has been practiced for ages, and the science does back it up. It can improve brain function, energy levels, and provide more time to party from Bangladesh to Bangalore.

10 Underrated Culinary Cities in America

Site Administrator — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 04:12:22 +0000

Did you know you can find great Vietnamese restaurants in Houston, Texas? Or enjoy Somali food in Columbus, Ohio? How about Caribbean cuisine in freezing Minneapolis? The combination of a city's local culinary traditions with those from around the world is the recipe for a diverse and innovative food culture. Below is a mouth-watering sampling of U.S. destinations for great food that might not be on your radar.

Columbus, Ohio

Midwesterners love to eat, but that doesn't mean they love to eat bland. This so-called cow town in central Ohio, probably and unfairly best known for its football culture, boasts a diverse selection of restaurants that includes Korean, Somali, and even authentically spicy Creole cooking. Columbus' beautiful German Village is where you'll find several incredible bakeries and restaurants including Juergen's, serving homemade baked goods for over 40 years.
Charlotte, North Carolina

Underrated even by the folks that live there, Charlotte is home to a diverse mix of ethnic restaurants including spots for Indian, Thai, Malaysian, and Ethiopian cooking, as well as plenty of places that serve good old-fashioned fried Southern dishes. There is also a growing food truck scene led by a handful of independently minded chefs who serve surprisingly sophisticated dishes out of spaces that are about the size of an overpriced New York City apartment. The local blog Eat My Charlotte provides detailed descriptions and reviews of the city's growing culinary scene.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Birthplace of the hoagie sandwich, Philadelphia has become a veritable melting pot of restaurants, many opened and maintained by nationally recognized star chef Jose Garces. Latin-American, Mexican, and Italian cooking are all represented in the city. Fresh and organic ingredients from local farms are on the menu of many establishments, including sustainable cuisine advocate Judy Wick's White Dog Café. And if you really want to stuff your face, be sure to visit The Hoagie Factory, which has been in the same location since 1954. If you're new to the hoagie, check out the menu in advance, and try not to refer to it as a "sandwich."
Eugene, Oregon

A long-standing Saturday farmers' market, chefs dedicated to local and organic ingredients, and tons of well respected wineries and vineyards are a few of reasons why Eugene, Oregon's second largest city, boasts such a thriving food scene. The local blog Eugene Weekly Chow! features establishments that cook with locally produced ingredients and provides a detailed and extensive list of the city's restaurants. For the visiting wine connoisseur, there are several vineyards and wineries close to Eugene offering tours and daily tastings.
Asheville, North Carolina

Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and known popularly as the Paris of the South, Asheville's culture embraces both the sophisticated and the earthy. Downtown and beyond, there is a broad selection of restaurants and damn good coffee shops that will please the most casual or discerning foodie. For all you Van Morrison fans out there, downtown's Tupelo Honey Café is considered a must-do visit for lovers of Southern cooking, if only for their sweet potato pancakes with peach butter. The nationally renowned The Market Place uses ingredients from area farms for its unique menu.

Houston, Texas

Houston locals reportedly dine out more than residents of any other city: four times a week according to a recent statistic! But even with 8,000 restaurants to choose from, representing more countries across the globe than you might imagine, Houston somehow still doesn't get its due as a destination for culinary variety and excellence. UrbanSpoon is a great place to start your research of Houston eateries. Houston has the third largest Vietnamese-American community in the U.S., and there are several great Vietnamese restaurants to choose from as a result. And it's probably accurate to describe Houston as the barbeque capital of the world, with Gabby's being just one destination among many for those who crave ribs.
Austin, Texas

Food trucks — they seem to be popping up in cities all over the U.S. But Austin, the nation's capital for live music, is truly a power spot for food truck culture. However, good eating in this city doesn't begin and end with a taco truck. The Austin-based food blog Relish is just one of many, many blogs dedicated to the city's complex culinary culture, providing news, reviews, and recipes. Where do you eat first when you visit Austin? This is not an easy question to answer…
Minneapolis, Minnesota

Caribbean, Brazilian, North African: these are descriptive words synonymous with warm even incredibly hot weather, which is not something Minneapolis is known for. No matter. Culinary traditions from throughout the Caribbean and Latin-Americas are plentiful throughout this chilly city, as are fresh takes on comfort food at establishments like Mission American Kitchen & Bar. Minneapolis is also known for its craft beer and breweries, including the Surly Brewing Company, whose beers are found in many of the city's bars and restaurants.
Denver, Colorado

Denver, host of the annual National Western Stock Show, is well known for its steak houses. If you crave ribeyes, sirloins, t-bones, and tenderloins, as well as Western big game cuisine like elk and bison, then saddle up, and head straight to Denver. But like all of the cities on this list, Denver has a rich and varied food culture running counter to the traditional, thanks to several innovative chefs, a half a dozen of whom were nominated for the James Beard House Foundation award in 2010. These culinary masters embrace and create new fusions of food but, as would be expected in a city that prides itself of being unpretentious, few menus come without what the Denver Post calls "a solid take on meat-and-potatoes."
Albuquerque, New Mexico

Red, or green? Not sure how to answer? Here's a clue: Say "Christmas" if you like both red and green chiles. For nearly 500 years, regional cuisine in Albuquerque has combined Native American ingredients with Spanish and Mexican to create what is popularly known as New Mexican Cuisine. More traditional, straightforward Native American fare can be sampled as well. Albuquerque's wine-making history goes back to 1629, when Spanish missionaries first planted grape vines throughout the Rio Grande Valley. Several of the city's well-respected and award-winning wineries are open to visitors and host daily wine tastings.

10 Things You Need to Know About Downton Abbey

Site Administrator — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 04:17:27 +0000

Within the last few months, you've probably heard murmurs about a little show called Downton Abbey. Well, those murmurs exploded into full-on raves very recently as PBS premiered the first episode of season two on Jan. 8, with everyone from an America's Next Top Model judge to comedians Patton Oswalt and Michael Ian Black chiming in on Twitter to comment on the phenomenon. Now that your friends and coworkers are all abuzz with gossip about the English period drama, you might be ready to dive into it or possibly write it off altogether. Before you do either, you need to know a few pieces of information to make the most informed decision (or at least be able to vaguely follow your friends' Downton Abbey conversations).

It's not DownTOWN Abbey

It's an easy enough mistake to make if you aren't familiar with the show since downtown is actually a word, and Downton is, well, a place some British writers made up. But if you don't want to be laughed at, or worse, glared out of a conversation about the show, you'd better get the name right. It helps if you say it with a snobby British accent. Downton Abbey is the country estate (think castle rather than cottage) of an earl and countess. The drama in the series revolves around these elites, their family, and the servants in their household, and boy, do they have a lot of drama.
It's set in the best time period possible

We probably all have our favorite eras — some of us probably even prefer shows set in the future. But there's something about the early 20th Century that draws us in, and Downton Abbey seems to touch on every awesome aspect. At the end of the Edwardian era, the romantic tragedies of the Titanic sinking and the world going to war for the first time combine with the impending change when the rich and poor will become more equal. There may be perfect period costumes and an American accent you wouldn't recognize today, but the show deals with the real issues and history, from the Suffragette effort to the war effort. And it doesn't bother dragging through time like real life; it zips through two years in just a season so we can get to the good stuff.
It's not Pride and Prejudice

Just because it's a period drama with fancy costumes and a rich upper class doesn't mean that this show is really anything like a Jane Austen novel. The etiquette and decorum are similar, though the Austen story and the PBS show take place 100 years apart, but Downton Abbey has an edge that Ms. Austen wouldn't dream of. It's like comparing Mad Men to Happy Days just because they happened in related time periods. Without spoiling any of the fun parts of Downton, there is death, sex, and some behavior very unbecoming of a lady. You won't be bored, and you won't be wading through thick, flowery language trying to follow the plot and figure out which are insults and which are professions of love.
The servants aren't all good and the rich aren't all bad

The beauty of Downton Abbey is that no class is stereotyped. Each character has a developed (and evolving) personality regardless of whether they hang out down in the kitchen and servants' quarters or live the high life and are waited on hand and foot. Among the servants, there are truly honest, decent people, who either love their job and harbor a fierce loyalty to the household or tolerate their job but perform it with integrity, and there are those who will trample on others to get their way. Among the wealthy characters, some are kind-hearted and progressive, others are ruthless and manipulative, and many fall convincingly in the middle.
Ugly sisters are the worst

This is one lesson we learned from the Kardashians that seems to apply to every time period. When you start watching Downton Abbey, you might earnestly want to like Edith, the middle of the Earl's three daughters. With her shrew face and unsexy haircut, you think she must be the most beautiful on the inside, but it doesn't take long to see that she's got a serious case of sisterly jealousy. In fact, there's not much else to her character besides her malicious intent to destroy her elder sister's happiness, and it's kind of believable in a society that values beauty and winning the affection of men more than whatever else poor Edith might've offered to the more modern world. Feel sorry for her if you must, but don't trust her for a second.
It's not all love stories and rivalries

On the surface, this series might seem like it's targeted at the gentler sex, but don't let all the manners and corsets fool you. With the announcement of the Great War (or World War I for you modern folks) at the end of the first season, Downton Abbey ushers in a new kind of drama. We're taken to the trenches in France where rich and poor fight side by side. We see the toll the war takes on all those back home and the inner struggle of the men who haven't enlisted yet. We probably won't be seeing Saving Private Ryan levels of gore, but many of the plot lines will surely be more appreciated by men than women.
Maggie Smith's still got it

Even though Smith looks like she could've been alive in 1912 when Downton Abbey opens, she's still one of the highlights of the cast. The actress, best known recently for her role as Harry Potter's Professor Minerva McGonagall, plays the role of Dowager Countess of Grantham, which is a fancy way of saying she's the Earl's mother who still has considerable say in the way things are run around Downton Abbey. Smith has a way of delivering withering stares and crippling insults in a such a polite way that you wouldn't know whether to cry or thank her. She also makes a believable out-of-touch old lady, asking what a "weekend" is and taking on a new-fangled swivel chair. Smith has already won an Emmy for the role and has recently been nominated for a Golden Globe.
And the rest of the cast matches her

Though the rest of the cast is more unknown to an American audience than Smith is, you won't be disappointed by the caliber of their performances. Many of them are famous among Brits and you may even recognize a couple if you've seen the right films. In particular, Hugh Bonneville and Elizabeth McGovern, who play the Earl and the Countess, stand out from the pack, earning Golden Globe nominations this year for Best Actor and Actress in a TV Miniseries or Movie.
It's making PBS cool again

We say "again" because you can't deny your childhood love for shows like Wishbone and Reading Rainbow. For decades, PBS has really only appealed to the very young and the very old (or at least very serious) viewer, but with the introduction of Downton Abbey, PBS is generating buzz they haven't experienced since the death of Mr. Rogers (may he rest in peace). The show earned four Emmys last year and was watched by 13 million people, merits that might bring PBS back to the glory we felt it deserved when we were five.
It's online

Whether you want to catch up or peek ahead, the Internet has the Downton Abbey episodes for you. Season one is available to stream on Netflix and PBS' website has a limited number of full episodes from last season and the recent season two premiere. Also, if you need your drama fix before the new episodes are shown each week on TV, the second season has already aired in England, so you can find it online if you know where to look.

The 10 Most Believable Movie Bullies

Site Administrator — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 04:14:43 +0000

Wedgies, swirlies, after-school fights. These aren't foreign concepts to most of us, especially those of us who were ever picked on by a bigger, meaner kid growing up. While many movies tend to stereotype bullies and the nerds they tormented showing laughable instances of being shoved into lockers and comical displays of revenge, other films give a thoughtful depiction of the psychology and reality of bullies and the bullied. You probably wouldn't want to be on the bad side of these domineering characters.

Scut Farkus in A Christmas Story

The infamous bully with the yellow eyes is a classic example of a neighborhood ruffian, terrorizing the smaller kids with his trash-talking minion by his side. While the wolf's theme from Peter and the Wolf may not have literally played whenever our old antagonists appeared, it's certainly close to the menacing theme song we imagined. Farkus makes Ralphie and his friends cry "Uncle," stalks them on their walks home, and nails them in the face with snowballs, but just like many real-life bullies, he's not above crying when he gets a taste of his own medicine.
Regina George in Mean Girls

Boys may use physical bullying more than girls do, but there is no greater hell than the one that can be created by mean teenage girls. Regina George is beautiful and always gets her way, and yet still feels the need to bad-mouth every girl in her high school. She even starts rumors about former friends, like her middle-school best friend, Janis, whom Regina labeled as a lesbian. Most girls know, whether popular or not, that high school is a minefield for girls as they try to win over boys and pretty friends, often at the expense of other girls. Regina might be the Queen Bee and ultimate bully of the school, but the movie also shows how girls within the same group of friends tend to torture each other.
John Bender in The Breakfast Club

Everyone seems to have their role in the high school world, and for John Bender, it's that of the misbehaved bully. While in detention with a jock, a nerd, a princess, and a weirdo, Bender teases everyone, especially the rich Daddy's girl. He reduces her to tears by making fun of her and embarrassing her for having such an easy life. But throughout the movie, you see a different side to the classic tormenter. Bender's jealous of what his life is lacking, including money and the love of his parents. He's been neglected and abused throughout his childhood and it's hardened him. The Breakfast Club humanizes bullies and allows us to see that there's often a hurt child behind the mean exterior.
Carlin in Scum

This 1979 British film about inmates in a borstal, or youth prison, shows a brutal side to such institutions and what happens when teenagers are left to struggle for dominance. In the world of youth correctional facilities, at least in the late '70s, the options were to be bullied or become a bully yourself. Carlin is the perfect example of a troubled youth who turns to violence only as a means to survive. He arrives at the borstal after taking the blame for his brother's crime and tries to stay out of trouble, but discovers that it's impossible to stay out of harm's way. After being assaulted by the current borstal leader, Carlin gets his revenge and becomes the new "Daddy" by issuing beatings to anyone who stands as his competition.
Mitch Hiller in Enough

We traditionally think of bullying as something that stops after graduation, but some evil people never outgrow their domineering personality. Enough is the story of a woman who is physically and psychologically abused by her husband. He uses their daughter and his money as pawns to keep his wife under his control and turns to violence when that won't work. Though the fact that Jennifer Lopez plays the main character in this drama kept the film from achieving much success, the stalker husband Mitch Hiller drives home the point that bullying doesn't stop in school and reminds us of the women out there who battle this kind of bullying every day.
Marianne in Easy A

Bullies come in all forms, and even people who feel like they've got good intentions can turn into tormenters. In Easy A, a girl lies about losing her virginity and an overzealous (and albeit stereotypical) Christian named Marianne spreads the rumor and ruins the girl's reputation. Though this character is a little over-the-top, she serves as a reminder that bullying someone because they don't follow your religious beliefs is still bullying and there are better ways to save someone than trying to run them out of your school.
Kenny in Let Me In

You may not believe in vampire children after seeing this American remake of the Swedish Let the Right One In, but you'll be confident that horrifying, savage bullying exists. The director of the film nails this thought when he says that the real horror of the story isn't the vampires, but the hell that some children have to go through. Kenny tortures his classmate, Owen, beating him and threatening to push him into a frozen lake. Even after Owen stands up for himself, Kenny just recruits his older brother to help him teach Owen a lesson during a terrifying scene in a pool. The fate of the bullies may not be realistic, but their methods unfortunately are.
George in Mean Creek

This 2004 independent film helped humanize bullies. When you're on the receiving end of insults or poundings, it can be hard to get any insight into why someone would act that way, but it becomes clear in this movie that bully George is just lonely. When some boys invite George on a boat trip with a plan to get revenge, they discover that George is really trying to be accepted by them and has been acting out for attention. George meets a sad doom after joking about a sore subject with one of the boys and it serves as an example of a misunderstood tormenter becoming the victim of vengeful bullying.
Biff Tannen in Back to the Future

Biff Tannen is the kind of bully who never grows out of his domineering ways and continues picking on weaker guys even when he's out in the working world. Before Marty McFly travels to the past, Biff is Marty's dad's supervisor, humiliating him every chance he gets. We then see that Biff has been taking his aggression out on the older McFly for decades. This kind of bully hates anyone who gets in the way of what he wants and will step on people to get ahead, only stopping when he finally gets challenged by one of his victims and knocked down himself.
Johnny Lawrence in The Karate Kid

It's not unusual for a top athlete to turn to bullying when he feels his dominance (in a sport or otherwise) being threatened. In The Karate Kid, Daniel LaRusso challenges Johnny's status with a popular girl and Johnny's martial arts team begins to torture Daniel. Johnny tries to defend his pride by exhibiting fiercely violent tendencies, which is often the answer young men turn to when they haven't learned better ways to deal with problems. You can also see the influence an adult bully can have on the younger generation as Johnny's sensei encourages him to be ruthless and use immoral karate moves.

10 Actors Who Didn’t Break Out Until Middle Age

Site Administrator — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 04:11:15 +0000

Like the song says, "Age ain't nothing but a number." Of course, that song was sung by a teenager, and it created some serious legal problems for the much older subject described in the lyrics. Perhaps a more helpful adage would be, "It's never too late to break out and begin a new adventure," be it completing a degree, starting a new business, or learning a new skill. If you need a little inspiration, consider the careers of these actors who didn't pop until they were approaching middle age.

Don Johnson

(b. 1949) Breakout age: 35! In 1984, after years of appearing in several failed television pilots and a handful of mostly forgettable films, Johnson was cast as undercover police detective Sonny Crockett in Michael Mann's groundbreaking television series Miami Vice. And hey, if you count Nash Bridges and a third career resurrection in Robert Rodriguez's ultraviolent grindhouse homage Machete, that's two additional middle-age career break outs!
Rue McClanahan

(b. 1934; d.2010) Breakout age: 38! Before she took on the role of the oversexed Southern Belle Blanche Devereaux in the hit series The Golden Girls, McClanahan broke out playing the role of Vivian Harmon on yet another groundbreaking show, the 1972 All in the Family spinoff Maude. In real life, like Bea Arthur's character Maude (and Bea Arthur herself), McClanahan was an outspoken, socially conscious feminist.
Fred Rogers

(b. 1928; d.2003) Breakout age: 40! Fred Rogers became a children's television icon as a result of Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood which premiered on public television in 1968. His background as a minister and skills as an actor (he provided the voice for most of the puppets appearing on the show) served him in his mission to inspire healthy social, cognitive, and emotional development in his young viewers.
James Earl Jones

(b. 1931) Breakout age: 40! Sure he provided the unforgettable voice of the evil Darth Vader in George Lucas' 1977 classic Star Wars and subsequent sequels/prequels. But it was Jones' breakthrough performance as boxer Jack Jefferson in the 1970 film The Great White Hope that gave him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Jones was also one of the first celebrities to appear on a then-new and innovative children's show called Sesame Street where, in one of the early pilots, he slowly, and dramatically, counted from one to 10.
Dennis Farina

(b. 1944) Breakout age: 42! Chicago-born and raised Farina served on the Chicago police force for 18 years moonlighting as an actor before being cast by Michael Mann in a couple episodes of Miami Vice and then as the lead in the stylish, controversial, and short-lived series Crime Story.
Bernie Mac

(b. 1957; d.2008) Breakout age: 44! One of the Kings of Comedy, Bernie "Mac" McCullough came up as a stand-up comedian with R- and X-rated routines inspired by the greats Redd Foxx and Richard Pryor. In 2001, Mac brought another layer of emotional depth to his edgy humor in the role of a nearly overwhelmed dad suddenly saddled with three adopted kids on the Fox TV series, The Bernie Mac Show. The show was a hit and brought the Macman's talent into living rooms of "America," as he was wont to address the viewer in recurring segments where he broke the "fourth wall" and addressed the camera directly.
Bea Arthur

(b. 1922; d. 2009) Breakout age: 44! Another alum of The Golden Girls, actress, comedienne, and singer Bea Arthur is well known for her supporting role on the show All In The Family where she played Edith Bunker's outspoken, adamantly feminist sister Maude Findlay. But before her television success, this multifaceted performer won a Tony Award for her performance as Vera Charles in the musical Mame (1966).
Pam Grier

(b. 1949) Breakout age: 48! Grier of course is an icon of classic 1970s blaxploitation films including the classic Foxy Brown. Leave it to Quentin Tarantino to see the scope of her true potential as an actor and cast her as the star of one of his best films, Jackie Brown (1997).
Morgan Freeman

(b. 1937) Breakout age: 52! Freeman made his Broadway debut in 1968 in an all-black version of Hello, Dolly!. Later, he was featured on the 1970s children's television show The Electric Company playing the characters Easy Reader and Vincent the Vegetable Vampire. But it was his award-winning performances in the 1989 films Driving Miss Daisy and Glory that sealed his reputation as one of the great actors of our time. He is also the man you wish narrated your life.
John Houseman

(b. 1902; d. 1988) Breakout age: 71! One of the great producers of early groundbreaking American theater, including the politically charged The Cradle Will Rock, Houseman personified the professor-you-love-but-who-still-scares-the-hell-out-of-you in his career-defining role as Professor Charles Kingsfield in the 1973 film The Paper Chase. Law school would never be the same.

The 10 Best Movie Portrayals of Historical Characters

Site Administrator — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 04:10:16 +0000

Being an actor seems like the perfect calling for people who really aren't that interesting on their own. Rather than spending every day being boring old you, you can take on the personality of a character who is much more exciting than you are. Some of the luckiest actors get to portray historical figures; imagine getting to feel like the president or a king for the length of filming. While some of these people may fall short of the important parts they are playing, several have risen to the occasion and really stepped into the shoes of the prominent figures they represent. These 10 actors changed the way we see history with their versions of people we'd previously only read about.

Colin Firth as King George VI, The King's Speech

For a movie that received 12 Oscar nominations, including a win for Colin Firth for Best Actor, it should come as no surprise that Firth's portrayal of King George VI, or Prince Albert as he was known at the time, would top the list. Albert, a lifelong stutterer, was never supposed to become king of England; his brother Edward is in line for the throne. But Edward wants to marry a divorced woman, which would make him ineligible for the position. Albert goes to a speech therapist to overcome his problems so he could take on the power if he needed to since radio broadcasts were so important during the time. Firth plays the role to perfection, with the right mix of anger, regalness, and neuroses that come with playing second fiddle in the royal family for a lifetime. It doesn't take long for you to start cheering for Albert, even though you know he will succeed in becoming King George VI.
Ben Kingsley as Mohandas K. Gandhi, Gandhi

When casting one of the most beloved peacemakers of our time, you've got to get the right man for the job. Luckily for audiences, Ben Kingsley, who is of English and Indian descent, pulled it off beautifully. He understands something that many actors may not have grasped if given the chance to play this man; Gandhi wasn't perfect or supernatural, just a man with convictions. It probably doesn't hurt, either, that Kingsley looks very convincing as Gandhi, the man who effectively employed civil disobedience to gain independence for India. The film's lengthy but it gives great insight into Gandhi's life, with Kingsley bringing relatable and inspiring life to the now-deceased figure.
George C. Scott as General George S. Patton, Patton

The personalities of actor George C. Scott and of the World War II general for the U.S. work together so well that you begin to think you are seeing George S. Patton himself in the movie. Patton was a man who loved war and was in his element on the battlefield. This made up his identity and he often had trouble fitting in when he was in the civilian world. Scott, who had done a stint in the military, seemed to understand this idea of an outsider who is great at his job — he was well known for not belonging to the Hollywood crowd or buying into the culture. Scott's performance, which eludes to a depth in the seemingly shallow, proud character, won him an Academy Award, which he sent back because he didn't want it. He did, however, want to play Patton again, and did so 16 years later in The Last Days of Patton.
Paul Giamatti as John Adams, John Adams

Fine, this isn't technically a movie, but there's no doubt that Paul Giamatti's depiction of President John Adams in this TV miniseries deserves a mention. And basically a miniseries is just a movie franchise where you don't have to wait two years to see the next film, so that makes it even more awesome. Giamatti takes on the role of our second president with ease and gives him a personality that helps bring the legendary revolutionary down to our level. He's passionate and stubborn and often impatient, but his loyalty shines through and the audience is left wondering why he doesn't receive more recognition. Giamatti helps give us a personal connection to a forefather that has largely been forgotten. We should also give due credit to the brilliant acting of Laura Linney, who plays the ever-devoted Abigail Adams.
Cate Blanchett as Queen Elizabeth I, Elizabeth

If you play the queen that heralded England's Golden Age and win an award from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, you know you've done a good job. In 1998's Elizabeth, Cate Blanchett impressed the English organization and won Best Actress in a Leading Role for her portrayal of The Virgin Queen. She later reprised the role in Elizabeth: The Golden Age. Some critics thought Blanchett, under the direction of Shekhar Kapur, played too far from the true queen's personality, but her rendition of the royal was somewhat modern and much more relatable than most British monarchs have come across in movies before. Blanchett brings a lively attitude to the young queen and show's Elizabeth's transformation to strong ruler beautifully.
Philip Seymour Hoffman as Truman Capote, Capote

It can be hard for an actor to take on the role of a real-life character who has so many idiosyncrasies. Author Truman Capote is known for his short stories and novels, many of which were made into films, like Breakfast at Tiffany's. He is also famous for his distinct appearance, marked by his short frame and peculiar way of dressing, and his high-pitched voice. He had a knack for making up stories about his life, including affairs with men who were thought to be heterosexual. Philip Seymour Hoffman takes on the curious role, not only nailing Capote's mannerisms, but finding a way to be likeable enough to the audience while still holding on to Capote's deep vanity and self-obsession.
Meryl Streep as Julia Child, Julie and Julia

Chef Julia Child brought French cooking to American kitchens with her cook books, Mastering the Art of French Cooking. She also became a recognizable TV personality, standing tall over her kitchen counters as she taught viewers how to cook in her unique tone of voice. While Dan Aykroyd does a pretty great impression of her on Saturday Night Live (one that Child herself is said to have loved), Meryl Streep really embodies her in the 2009 movie, Julie and Julia. Streep has the movements and vocals down and captures a spirit that is essential in a portrayal of the joyful chef. Streep finds the strong woman behind the silly habits, shows the love Child and her husband share, and gives us the story of the chef's life in a way that makes us feel as if we're watching Child herself.
Frank Lagella as President Richard Nixon, Frost/Nixon

Though Michael Sheen does a bang-up job as David Frost, a British journalist taking on the enormous task of interviewing pardoned President Richard Nixon, Frank Lagella's portrayal of the former president was more fascinating. Maybe it's because we love scandal or because Watergate will always intrigue us; whatever the reason, all eyes were on Lagella when this film came out, and he didn't disappoint. The movie covers the drama surrounding a series of interviews between Nixon and Frost, a risk for the reputations of both men. Nixon historically isn't viewed in the most favorable light and you'd probably expect to hate him in the film, but Lagella's depiction is so well done that you really sympathize with him. Instead of just seeing a corrupt leader, you'll go back and forth over whether you're watching a broken man or one who knows how to work an audience.
Leonardo DiCaprio as Howard Hughes, The Aviator

Sure, we all loved Leonardo DiCaprio as a heartthrob in Titanic and Growing Pains, but his grown-up roles have earned him a spot among the acting greats. In The Aviator, DiCaprio plays Howard Hughes, a man who furthered the aviation industry and produced hit films while simultaneously starting to come off his rocker. Hughes battles obsessive-compulsive disorder even though he enjoys wild success in film and has obscene amounts of money. DiCaprio finds the balance between charming millionaire romancer and fixated madman and makes them both believable. His boyish looks work to his advantage during the part of the film portraying Hughes' younger years, but it's DiCaprio's acting chops that really bring the character and his downward spiral to life.
Bruno Ganz as Adolf Hitler, Der Untergang

You may not know the name of this film, also known as Downfall in English, but you've definitely seen at least part of it. The scene in which Adolf Hitler reacts to bad news has been an incredibly popular meme during the past few years, changed to have Hitler get upset over news about football, pop culture, and basically anything you can think of. Despite this now-silly segment, Der Untergang is actually an excellent film tackling Hitler's last 10 days before his death. Not an easy topic or character, Bruno Ganz gives a jaw-dropping performance. Rather than giving a simple caricature of the depraved dictator, Ganz brings us into the world of a man who is at once terrible and human. Hitler was facing his destruction and living with the early stages of Parkinson's disease; Ganz researched Parkinson's patients and brought deep emotions to the outward portrayal of what was a very troubled mind. He doesn't ask you to feel sorry for Hitler, but gives you more realistic insight into how this very real person met his end.

12 Turkey-Less Thanksgiving Meals Everyone Will Love

Site Administrator — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 04:32:58 +0000

Traditional Thanksgiving dinner is centered on the almighty turkey and the sides that complement it nicely. Although the turkey has an important role in American heritage and Thanksgiving celebrations, there is no reason why we can't spread our wings and try other main dishes this year. There are plenty of tasty alternatives to the traditional Thanksgiving turkey. Whether you decide to go meatier or meatless, one thing's for sure: No one will miss that bird. Check out these 12 turkey-less Thanksgiving meals everyone will love:

Cranberry-stuffed Cornish game hens

This Thanksgiving, hold the turkey and opt for the incredibly elegant and delicious Cornish game hens. This mouthwatering recipe uses cranberries, shiitake mushrooms, and zesty herbs to bring out the rich flavors of this delicate chicken.
Vegan vegetable spread

Believe it or not, not all vegan Thanksgivings are bland. This chef's heart-healthy harvest-stuffed Portobello mushrooms and maple-roasted Brussels sprouts with toasted hazelnuts sure beat tasteless tofurkeys and other vegan meatless products. And best of all, these easy dishes can be prepared all year long.
Roast leg of lamb with rosemary

Roast leg of lamb is a delightful holiday dish that can easily make its way into your Thanksgiving lineup. This zesty version should be marinated overnight to absorb all of the rich flavors and keep it moist. Be prepared to share this popular recipe with others!
Butternut squash lasagna

If you're looking for a tasty and healthy alternative to turkey, consider making butternut squash lasagna on Thanksgiving. This delectable dish is packed with nutrient-rich butternut squash and topped with mozzarella cheese, making it a favorite among adults and kids.
Honey-mustard pork roast with bacon

Pork roast is a favorite around Christmas, so why not give it a whirl this Thanksgiving? Better yet, try this scrumptious honey-mustard pork roast topped with bacon to satisfy the carnivores. Your taste buds won't know what hit them!
Cola-basted ham

If you're more of a ham fan, then you'll definitely want to try out this savory and sweet ham dish by Paula Deen. Doused in cola and brown sugar and topped with pineapples and cherries, this decadent ham is a sweet-toothed carnivore's dream.
Perfect roast beef

Jamie Oliver's perfect roast beef is a hearty dish that really lives up to its name. Seasoned to perfection and roasted in a medley of onions, carrots, celery stalks, and garlic, this roast beef is a zesty dish that can be made for Thanksgiving and all of your holiday get-togethers.
Roasted salmon with cranberry-mustard sauce

Salmon has become a fan-favorite among Thanksgiving turkey replacers, and this particular recipe really aims to please. The flavorful combination of sweet cranberry and salty Dijon mustard keeps the salmon moist and incredibly delicious.
Coriander-crusted duck

Spice up Thanksgiving with this savory coriander-crusted duck recipe that is sure to impress the guests. After one bite of this robustly flavored duck, your family will forget all about the tired, old turkey.
Prime rib and oven-roasted potatoes

If you want to upgrade from traditional turkey, you can't go wrong with a delicious prime rib like the one listed here. Seasoned to perfection and paired with potatoes, this flavorful prime rib recipe will make your Thanksgiving dinner a memorable one for the whole family.
Steaks

If your Thanksgiving party is small and your budget is flexible, why not turn your dining room into a five-star steakhouse? Steaks are simple to cook and loved by many people. You can really take it up a notch and get fancy with filet mignon, as recommended by this Food Network recipe.
Garlic-schmeared rosemary roast chicken

If you're tired of turkey, shake things up with this delicious garlic-schmeared rosemary roast chicken recipe from Chef Emeril Lagasse. The rich flavors of garlic, rosemary and freshly ground black pepper will satisfy the taste buds and have your guests asking for seconds.