You are looking at one of the very few libraries in Ethiopia that was established by Yohannes Gebregeorgis. For the past two years, we’ve worked with Yohannes at my full-time job and I have met him on several occasions. He is a very inspirational man whose desire to ensure Ethiopian children have the simple pleasure and ability to read has been his life’s dream.

His work has garnered him attention before, but not until know has he been recognized on a national stage. Yohannes was nominated and then made the Top 10 in the CNN Heroes awards. Guess what? You can help him win. Just go to the CNN Heroes page and vote. And vote. In fact, you can then vote again.

I know we’re all tired of voting at this point, but this time you don’t have to think about it. Take my word, Yohannes is very deserving of the award (like all the others), but since I know him personally and I know the hard work he’s put into Ethiopia Reads, he gets my vote.

If you have the time, won’t you take a few seconds to vote for him? Karma will reward you later.

Listening to: “Rarity” - Lucinda Williams

One Sentence Review: Quantum Of Solace

Imagine TheTransporter with a tux and a martini, but enjoyable anyway.

Rating: Matinee
Rating System: Full-Price Ticket, Matinee, Wait For DVD, Late-Night Cable Fodder, Skip It

Listening to: “Monkey Man” - David Byrne

New dress code for visiting here:

If you couldn’t get into a skating rink wearing it, you can’t get in here.

That’s all I got today. This cold I’ve had for a week is getting worse and I’m just not feeling so great. Now go get some rest yourself before you catch from your computer screen.

UPDATE: Here is an example of a skating rink dress code:

• No Tank Tops, Low-Cut Tops, Halter Tops or Midriffs: All tops must have sleeves and be full length.
• No oversized pants: Pants must be worn above the hips.
• No “Short” Shorts or Daisy Dukes.

No outside food or beverages will be allowed into our facility. In order to uphold our reputation in the community, as well as to provide wholesome, safe and fun sessions for our costumers, we must reserve the right to set standards for conduct, dress and appearance of our skaters. Dress or grooming that is too casual or draws to much attention is not acceptable. We will not permit behavior that is not up to our standards.

Listening to: “I Tried To Rock You But You Only Roll” - Leona Naess

I’ve never seen her in concert, so this July I bought tickets for Cameron and I to see her at Pepsi Center for his birthday. It’s tonight. Excitement is in the air. Cameron is currently at home trying to figure out what to wear — not because he’s worried about Madonna seeing him and not because he’s afraid of what bitchy things the other gays will say about him. No, he’s worried that the male counterpart (Monkey Larry) of the straight couple we are going with will look better than him.

I suggested something with glitter.

Beyond Cam’s clothing options, I can tell he’s excited. He’s a big fan and I’m glad I get to see her with him; however, I want the big over-the-top show. Cam told me she ended up doing an acoustic set in L.A. recently. Well, that’s not what I paid for. I want mirror balls and half-naked dancers. Damn your divorce and your feelings of loss, Madge. We want Vegas!

Or at least do the acoustic set for those suckers who ended up having to buy tickets for the second show tomorrow night.

UPDATE: The show was over-blown, decadent, unnecessary and extravagant. In other words, it was great.

Listening to: “The First Person On Earth” - Tracy Chapman