Dan is a writer living in Shanghai, China.
Links Archive
April 14 09
$800,000 in five months? I really should have studied iTunes App development in high school.
March 27 09
Brazilian President Blames White People For The Economic Crisis
Sorry, everyone. My bad.
March 24 09
Death link to too much red meat [BBC]
For the most part, I stopped eating meat early last year (except when I visit the Bloomsburg Fair). So I probably won't die. Ever.
March 10 09
Virginia bans most smoking
"The home state of Marlboro and the world’s largest cigarette factory has banned most smoking in restaurants and bars." Find your state <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_smoking_bans_in_the_United_States">here</a>. Would love to see PA in the white.
March 9 09
HarperCollins Restructures and Dismisses 2 Top Executives [NYTimes.com]
Not good news. "HarperCollins declined to say how many others had been laid off, but people familiar with the changes said at least five editors at Collins had been let go, including Gillian Blake and Caroline Sutton, well-respected executive editors who had been with the company for less than a year."
March 1 09
TripAdvisor's 2009 Top 10 Dirtiest Hotels
I don't think they did proper research in China.
February 25 09
An escort service in Chengdu uses Twitter
(They'll also help you find the nearest Starbucks apparently.)
Study: One drink a day increases cancer risk for women
"In the largest study of its kind, British researchers deliver the bad news that women who have just one alcoholic drink a day raise their chances of developing cancer, mostly in their breasts."
February 24 09
El liquido milagroso — The miracle liquid [Los Angeles Times]
It's a kitchen degreaser. It's a window cleaner. It kills athlete's foot. Oh, and you can drink it.
February 17 09
geeksugar Interview with Gizmodo Editor Elaine Chow
And now she is the Shanghaiist Editor, as well.
January 26 09
"Just wanted to wish you a Happy Chinese New Year using the easy-to-comprehend Western alphabet."
January 22 09
Arcade Fire, Jay-Z Play Private Show for Obama Staffers
I'm sure McCain staffers would have requested the same acts.
January 20 09
Harper's Index: A retrospective of the Bush era (Harper's Magazine)
Please. Leave. Now.
January 7 09
Utah Attorney General: BCS may violate antitrust laws
Sue their asses. Whatever it takes to get a playoff.
January 6 09
iPhone App: CopierciN
Allows for copy/paste between some apps. Also also forwarding contact info — which is what I was looking for when I stumbled upon this app. Works OK, but the contacts list comes up in no logical order, adding extra time to what should be a very simple process. I love my iPhone, but it's very odd that it doesn't allow some very basic functions: copy and paste, SMS forwarding, contacts forwarding. Why, Apple, why? (More on CopierciN <a href="http://gomercin.net/copiercinwp/">here</a>.)
December 31 08
The musicians who died in 2008
An audio slideshow from the New York Times. Gotta love Isaac Hayes' chain-link vest.
December 11 08
Research now shows that high-tech devices will be able to power themselves in the future by converting pressure waves into energy.
November 28 08
Report: New York Giants kicker Lawrence Tynes pursues pardon for brother
"Mark Tynes was convicted in 2004 of two counts of marijuana distribution for his part in a plan to move 18 tons of marijuana between Texas and Florida." 18 tons. That might have soemthing to do with it.
November 21 08
How Axl Rose Spent All That Time - NYTimes.com
“'Chinese Democracy' (Geffen) is the Titanic of rock albums: the ship, not the movie, although like the film it’s a monumental studio production. It’s outsize, lavish, obsessive, technologically advanced and, all too clearly, the end of an era. It’s also a shipwreck, capsized by pretensions and top-heavy production. In its 14 songs there are glimpses of heartfelt ferocity and despair, along with bursts of remarkable musicianship. But they are overwhelmed by countless layers of studio diddling and a tone of curdled self-pity. The album concludes with five bombastic power ballads in a row."
November 7 08
Video: Country First? McCain campaign knew long ago that Palin was risky (and by risky I mean dumb)
November 1 08
Knicks place Stephon Marbury (and his $21.9 million salary) on inactive list
One step closer to that Isiah-Marbury reality TV series I have been dreaming of.
October 30 08
China listed U.S. athletes as possible troublemakers
"The names included softball players Jennie Finch and Jessica Mendoza and soccer player Abby Wambach, who broke her leg and missed the Olympic Games. It also included two Paralympians, one athlete who wasn't a member of the 2008 softball team and a top female collegiate golfer. Golf is not an Olympic sport."
Woman paints lawn after Obama sign is stolen
Mom, what are you waiting for?
October 29 08
Ricky Gervais and Thandie Newton read a scene from the political porn film "Nailin' Paylin"
I knew there was a reason I read Slate
(And someone needs to fire Rachael Larimore.)
How Anti-Intellectual Is Palin?
From Andrew Sullivan. And I'll ignore the dig at sports journalists.
October 22 08
Republicans are more likely to like South Park than Democrats?
This doesn't sound right.
October 20 08
Editor & Publisher's running tally of presidential newspaper endorsements
It ain't pretty for McCain.
Poll: Obama Opens 14-Point Lead On McCain
I am trying to only be cautiously optimistic.
October 9 08
Lanzhou La Mian in the Fench Concession!
Very close to my place. And just in time for winter. Yay.
A great, and regulalry updated, collection of polls related to the 2008 U.S. presidential election
Gallup, by far, reports the widest margin.
Obama widens lead in national poll
"Fifty-three percent of likely voters questioned in the poll say they are backing Obama for president, with 45 percent supporting McCain. That 8-point lead is double the 4-point lead Obama held in the last CNN/Opinion Research Corporation poll, taken in mid-September."
Vote Obama or McCain: Global Electoral College from The Economist
What if the whole world (of Economist readers) could vote? Obama would win 8,408 to 16.
September 14 08
Readable charts that help explain the proposed McCain/Obama tax plans
Only my friends who make more than $600k a year should even consider voting for McCain. And then, after closely examing all the issues, you shoudl strongly reconsider.
September 13 08
Daniel Christopher Washburn, if you were born to Sarah Palin, your name would be: Slap Spear Palin
And I'd be pregnant and addicted to oxycontin.
September 11 08
How McCain and Obama will change your tax bill
CNN breaks down the numbers in a tidy little graph. It's clear Obama's tax plan cuts taxes for more Americans than McCain's. Don't believe the lies.
Everymoment Now : Obama Vs. McCain : Context and Scope to the 2008 US General Election
Another beautiful and informative site from Craig Mod.
The world's verdict will be harsh if the US rejects the man it yearns for
"An America that disdains Obama for his global support risks turning current anti-Bush feeling into something far worse"
September 5 08
According to Quantcast, Shanghaiist is the Gothamist Network's second most popular site
Not too shabby.
September 3 08
I didn't realize you could watch full episodes of the Daily Show on ComedyCentral.com
But you can.
September 2 08
Palin's candidacy is fun to cover but raises serious questions about McCain's judgment
"Now that McCain has made a high-profile decision essentially defined by its riskiness—observers have called it a 'Hail Mary pass' so often, I'm starting to think it's a play for the Catholic vote—the question is whether McCain has squandered his advantage with voters on the question of risk."
August 30 08
McCain's VP Wants Creationism Taught in School
The more I read, the more frightened I get. Michelle Obama is more qualified to be president than Sarah Palin.
What is McCain Thinking? One Alaskan's Perspective.
"I, and all Alaskans will be interested to see how this whole process unfolds. This is definitely a gamble for McCain, and in my humble opinion, a gift to Obama and to Joe Biden who just got thrown a big hunk of red meat for the vice presidential debate."
August 20 08
Harrisburg Turns On The Lights - washingtonpost.com
Perhaps the first time "Harrisburg" and "Lively Night Scene" have appeared together in print.
August 19 08
Why are Jamaicans so good at sprinting?
Slate does a better job of explaining this tricky issue than Jimmy The Greek did.
I have decided to stop going to the gym.
Instead, I am just going to eat "nuggets." That's what Usain Bolt would do.
August 18 08
You know, I was wondering about Olympian Chris Kaman's German-ness. Here's the answer.
"A red-blooded, born-and-bred American, three generations removed from the great-grandparents who decades ago first set foot on U.S. soil at Ellis Island in the shadow of the Statue of Liberty."
July 30 08
The price of keeping a pet dog in Guangzhou
"License to own a dog costs 10,000 yuan and each year a dog owner must pay an additional 6,000 yuan for a medical 'check' ... Only 842 of the 100,000 dogs in Guangzhou are legal." Yikes. It's RMB 2,000 a year in Shanghai.
July 19 08
Theres Lots of Money in Those Old iPhones - Bits - Technology - New York Times Blog
"This indicates that FreeiPhoneSwap is feeding the vast gray market for iPhones that have been hacked to work on any compatible network, not just those owned by companies with which Apple has signed deals."
July 14 08
My good friend Veronica is called a "lovely young American girl" in a London Times story partly about her recent European road trip with John Cleese
Now I know what I need to do to start being called young again — hang out with more 70-year-olds.
July 13 08
The World interviews John Pasden instead of me about learning to speak Chinese
(Because I told them to. Good move.)
Shanghai movie showtimes via Google
Only in Chinese, but still very helpful. Although just because it says 英语 next to a title doesn't mean that particular theater is showing it in English. We just learned that the hard way tonight. At least the theater told us before we bought tickets.
Day in the life: The Filmmaker
"With the stars recently in town for the Shanghai International Film Festival, we wondered if life was really that glamorous for documentary filmmaker Luis Tapia." Some nice publicity for Daedalum Films ... and I get name-dropped twice!
July 11 08
Editorial - The Government and Your Laptop - Editorial - NYTimes.com
"Congress should pass a law that allows the government to look at data on laptops and other portable electronic devices only when it has a reasonable suspicion about the specific person being searched — something the law does not currently require." Ame
July 9 08
If and when we ever move back to the US, I have a feeling our car will look something like this
Next-gen Prius to get solar panels.
July 7 08
Anta Running Shoes: We'll let you know how quickly they fall apart
Bliss' handbag got stolen at Sasha's on Friday. It was a big bag, so thief got lots of random stuff, including Bliss' gym clothes - and running shoes purchased in the US. Imported running shoes are expensive here, so we replaced Adidas with Anta. Mistake?
July 4 08
Is Obama a Mac and Clinton a PC? - New York Times
All world leaders should be Mac users. Now that would make for a harmonious society.
July 3 08
Christian Site's Ban on 'G' Word Sends Homosexual to Olympics
Oops. Tyson Gay became Tyson Homosexual, and a conservative organization's homophobia and poor editing skills make headlines.
July 2 08
New iPhone Can Decouple From AT&T, for a Price
"AT&T yesterday announced that it will offer the smartphone to people who want to use another carrier, starting at $599." Ouch.
June 27 08
Take a look at how awful the New York Knicks NBA draft track record is
Let's hope Danilo Gallinari bucks the trend.
NPR: Take the Poll: Best CDs of the Year (So Far)
Some decent ones to choose from. Some noticable gaps, too. But ... do people still buy CDs?
June 15 08
Shanghai vs Beijing architectural bakeoff
"What is emerging is a distinct stylistic difference, Shanghai is about glitz while Beijing scores on architectural innovation, although this largely due to the Olympics and the role of Beijing as the capital." Vote for your faves.
Let Them Eat Frogs: Burma's junta is willing to let its people starve while relief waits just offshore - washingtonpost.com
"And, the junta also assured its readers, hunger could not be a problem, since farmers can gather water clover or 'go out with lamps at night and catch plump frogs.' This might be funny were it not obscene." Speechless.
Bizarre photos of George W. Bush chest bumping a US Airforce Academy grad
I think he's officially thrown in the towel. Two-term president ... two term! Sigh.
May 29 08
ESPN - Angry sumo wrestler attacks apprentice with ladle
Sorry, I just had to click on this one.
Indoor golf in the Netherlands?
Check out the drawings. Proposed building looks like a putter.
The Guessing Game Has Begun on the Next iPhone - NYTimes.com
"Although the company will not publicly confirm the arrival of a second iPhone, Apple watchers have concluded that a new version will be introduced June 9, the opening day of Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference." Gives me two days to buy one in US.
May 28 08
"Foreigners in Shanghai should carry their passports with them for random checks by police"
So says Xinhua. Has anyone in Shanghai been randomly asked to show their passport recently?
30 Rock, "Cooter": Season 2, Episode 15
Great episode ... and you can watch it guilt-free at work due to its China-related plotlines. Loving Hulu.com, although I don't think it works in China unless you have a VPN that gives you a US-based IP address.
Hu's on second?
Watching Dodgers-Cubs on ESPN and Chris Berman just told us that Taiwan's Hu Chin-lung, a second baseman for Los Angeles, has the shortest last name in Major League history. No other two-letter family names prior to 2008.
My bike route today
A beautiful 23-miles along rock walls, river banks and old railway tracks. I could get used to this.
May 27 08
Columbia Montour Visitors Bureau
Pretty good site with info about what to do near my hometown. (Yes, there are actually things to do.)
Kristi Capel is “America’s Hottest Weather Anchor”
And she happens to work for my local NBC affiliate here in Pennsylvania (WBRE in Wilkes-Barre).
May 20 08
Four-dollar-per-gallon gas is cheap! - By Robert Bryce - Slate Magazine
"A Starbucks venti latte costs the equivalent of $23 per gallon, while Budweiser beer runs $11 per gallon." Definitely worth reading. We'll see if I still agree with the premise after spending three weeks in the US (starting Thursday).
How to avoid Isiah Thomas if you see him in the hall: Stop walking and stand still. But remember, the Isiah Thomas is as scared of you as you are of it.
From "The Knicks worst-case scenario survival handbook." Meanwhile, Game 7 of the Spurs-Hornets series does not appear to be televised on the Filipino satellite.
May 14 08
Clinton Wins West Virginia, With Race a Factor - New York Times
"Two in 10 white West Virginia voters said race was an important factor in their votes." And just think of all the other ones not dumb enough to admit they are racists. Sad.
May 13 08
Shanghaiist's earthquake coverage
128 updates in around 24 hours. It's turned into one of the better English-language resources about the devastating news out of Sichuan Province.
May 9 08
"Yes We Can!": My new ringtone
Good thing I don't get too many calls. Later, I might get all ironic and go with "Shame on you, Barack Obama!"
Burma death toll could reach 100,000
"Actually, frustration doesn't even begin to describe what people around the world are feeling as the military junta seems willing to do everything in its power to let the suffering continue."
I suppose this means I am an "effete snob"
If you told me you planned on stabbing Rush Limbaugh in the gut, I just might look the other way.
May 7 08
Zhou Xunshu on 2008: “It’s not just about me”
"The birth of his son Yanhan means Zhou has another family member to look after. 'I’m playing better this year than before. My mental game is stronger, partly because I got married last year, so I have to be more responsible,' said the 35-year-old."
May 5 08
Next Tab :: Firefox Add-ons
"When you right click on a link, you will get an option to 'open the link next to current tab' in the context menu. Click on it and the tab will be opened right next to the current tab." Very nice.
Is Horse Racing Breeding Itself to Death? - washingtonpost.com
"But thoroughbred racing is in a moral crisis, and everyone now knows it. ... Horses are being over-bred and over-raced, until their bodies cannot support their own ambitions, or those of the humans who race them." An average of two deaths per day (!).
Democracy, Burma-Style: It's a brave soul who votes no. - washingtonpost.com
"Can anything be done? It's not easy, given the complicity of Burma's neighbors: China backs the generals, India is silent, Thailand worse than silent."
May 1 08
They are starting to compare Micah Owings to Babe Ruth
So now I can say, "I covered the guy they are starting to compare to Babe Ruth when he was in high school."
April 29 08
The rule in sports: Smoke 'em if you got 'em - ESPN.com
Especially true for the golfers on the China Tour.
April 28 08
As Olympics near, jittery China clamps down on foreigners, concerts - Yahoo! News
"I was not in fact attacked by a mob," Galvin told the Shanghaiist.com Web site. He couldn't be reached directly.
Newsweek: Countdown Beijing : Beijing Rock Fest 'Harmonized'
"At one outlet in Changsha, a young American teacher mistaken for a Frenchman was snarled in the mob; he caught a few glancing blows, and nearly had his cab tipped over, before police whisked him to safety, reports the Shanghaiist blog."
Twitter Quotient for 'danwashburn'
"3.0 followers for every friend. Aren't you the popular one?"
April 25 08
Some pretty cool China (and Tokyo) photos from my friend Curtis Koshimizu
He was stuck in Guizhou during the massive winter storms there this winter.
Actor Wesley Snipes Gets 3 Years for Tax Charges
Let this be a lesson to all you expats (like me) who have neglected to file (or thought you didn't have to). I resumed filing after my teaching days came to an end in '04. Think I am safe — English teachers in China likely aren't the feds' top priority.
April 23 08
Bush disapproval ratings hit all time high
"Bush registers a 69 percent disapproval rating, the highest in that survey’s history – higher even than President Nixon during the Watergate scandal." What scares me is that people who voted for him (especially in 2004) are still allowed to vote.
Castle Oktober is dead
To be replaced by another German brewhouse (not named Paulaner). Hmmm.
April 17 08
The Sooner This is All Over The Better
"Aren’t you sick of it yet? The Olympics we mean of course." Let me think about that for a second: Um, yes. Couldn't agree more with this line: "Oh how we long for the wonderful days of September to come around."
April 16 08
Chinese Internet Users Say “Enough” To International Bullying
TechCrunch got this story from (and links to) Shanghaiist.
My brother may have had a college French class with Carson Kressley
(This is where you say: Who the hell is Carson Kressley?) Was looking up his age on IMDb and saw that he went to Gettysburg College.
Gulliver | Economist.com
"[A] business-travel blog and newsletter delivering a combination of news, views and reviews to help readers get the most out of their business trips." This replaces their Cities Guide ... and thus I no longer receive checks from Economist.com.
April 11 08
It's a boy!
Zhou Xunshu’s wife, Liu Yan, gave birth to a baby boy at 7:32 pm on April 5 in Hengyang, Hunan Province. The baby weighs 3.25 kg (7.2 pounds) and is 50 cm (19.7 inches) long. He doesn’t have a name yet. Meanwhile, Zhou is tied for 8th in Kunming.
Shanghai to crack down on satellite dishes
"Seventeen government departments will launch a joint city-wide campaign to wipe out illegal television satellites that can receive foreign TV programs across Shanghai, the Oriental Morning Post reported today." From my cold dead hands!
April 9 08
Gridskipper posts about Shanghaiist's post about SH's article about Shanghai chefs and their "secret" dining spots
Get all that? (And we really should have purchased the "Shanghaist" domain way back when.)
Obama: The Chinese version
Salon.com links to the Shanghaiist post about Chinese search engine Baidu incorportating Barack Obama into its logo.
April 8 08
GOOD Magazine | Blog - The China Issue On Newsstands
Inlcudes a link to a list of newsstands where GOOD can be purchased. Once you get your copy, turn immediately to page 78, where you will see a familiar (albeit very, very tiny) face.
Is Chinese search engine Baidu endorsing Barack Obama?
My post on Shanghaiist. Quite odd.
April 7 08
China trip driving teetotaling Georgia governor to drink
"I just lift the glass to my lips," Sonny Perdue said during an interview during his China trip. "If you empty the glass, they think you want more."
Should Chinese golfer Liang Wenchong pay for his government's sins?
I think that's what The Telegraph's Mark Reason is saying. So then, should tournaments be free to uninvite US golfers as a statement against the Iraq war? I get his point about golf's hypocrisy, but that shouldn't prohibit Liang from earning a living.
April 6 08
Alltop's China Page: We help you explore your passions by collecting stories from 'all the top' sites on the web
"We’ve grouped these collections — 'aggregations' — into individual Alltop sites based on topics ... We display the latest five stories from thirty or more sites on a single page ... Alltop [is] a 'dashboard,' 'table of contents' ... of the Internet."
Mukokuseki
New blog from John Biesnecker, the only guy in Shanghai who has had more websites than me.
April 5 08
Online menu for 1001 Nights Restaurant in Shanghai
Pretty damn good. Quick delivery. No prices (or descriptions) on online menu, however — keeps it interesting. The best thing about eating their food at home? Our music is better than theirs.
April 4 08
Guess I won't be picking Colin Montgomerie in the Masters Tournament pool
My post on Shanghaiist.
'Next up on my hate list are links that come alive when you mouse over them.'
Yes! Yes! And more "links that stink" from Slate's Jack Shafer.
'This is my unborn child's first Phillies game'
I went to college with Mr. Sadowski.
Li and Zhang renew battle for Omega Order of Merit
"Zhou Xunshu, the former golf course security guard, is a surprise name at No. 4 with RMB28,500. The 35-year-old finished joint-sixth in Guangzhou and tied-eighth in Xiamen, having previously only finished in the top-10 twice in the past three seasons."
March 31 08
Audio Slide Show: The Hidden Yankee Stadium
"The House That Ruth Built is in its final season. A tour of its little-known quirks."
Bliss and I were thinking about seeing the last game ever at Yankee Stadium — is it worth $450?
I am pretty sure Bliss will say, "No." (I probably agree.) We'll be in the US for two weeks in Sept./Oct. for the Bloomsburg Fair (and to see family and friends, of course).
"Remembering the House the Ruth Built" - ESPN.com's special site dedicated to Yankee Stadium
I really need to try to get to a game this year before they close the place down.
March 30 08
After 8th place finish in Xiamen, Zhou Xunshu remains No. 4 on the Omega China Tour money list
"Last year, he was No. 22 on the money list. Next stop on the China Tour is Kunming, April 10-13, a tournament that just might coincide with the birth of his son."
Zhou Xunshu only two strokes out of top 3 entering today’s final round
"[A] top 3 finish would give Zhou automatic 'pro player' certification with the China Golf Association, which could potentially help him get a better job and attract sponsors. Currently, Zhou has 'pro coach' status and no sponsors."
March 29 08
Zhou Xunshu in Xiamen top 10; follow him live today
"Zhou fired a 2-under 68 on Friday to enter the weekend tied for 7th place in Xiamen. Today, he got off to a rough start with a bogey and double bogey on the first two holes. He then settled down, adding two birdies to get back into the top 10."
March 28 08
Zhou Xunshu in the mix in Xiamen
"Zhou stumbled late and ended up in a 13-way tie for 17th place in the opening round of the US$100,000 Dell Championship in Xiamen. Sitting pretty at 1-under with four holes to go, Zhou finished with three bogeys and a par to end up with a 2-over 72."
What the Sweet Sixteen head coaches would do for a living (based only on their photos) if they weren't coaching hoops
North Carolina's Roy Williams: Fried Chicken Restaurateur.
Origami pigeons take over London's Leicester Square
With instructions on how to make your own origami pigeon!
Live scoring for the opening round of the Omega China Tour's Dell Championship in Xiamen
So far, so good for Zhou Xunshu.
"Too many comments have been submitted from you in a short period of time. Please try again in a short while."
This is the error you will get when trying to comment on this site. Looking into it.
From the Economist.com's Beijing Briefing, a blurb on the Dodgers-Padres game from earlier this month
"While many of the spectators may have missed the intricacies of the action, the team's mascots and cheerleaders provided more accessible entertainment." Cheerleaders? Baseball? Can someone confirm?
Douglas Kmiec, Conservative Professor, Defends Obama Endorsement
Kmiec served as head of the Office of Legal Counsel (U.S. Assistant Attorney General) for Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush. Read his endorsement on Slate.
March 24 08
Photos of Shanghaiist editor Kenneth Tan's appearance on an ICS TV show about blogging
They actually came to his home and filmed him while blogging — talk about action packed! (ICS is Shanghai's new local "international" channel ... I don't get it since I don't have local cable.)
nciku 在线词典 Chinese characters and pinyin dictionary
I think I should have known about this site before today.
So?
In case you haven't yet seen Dick Cheney admit he doesn't care what American people think.
March 23 08
"What Richardson's endorsement means for Obama," By John Dickerson, Slate Magazine
I like political writers who make references to Bill Murray movies from the early 1980s. John Dickerson is also a Twitter machine.
If you had Bae Sang Moon in your KEB Invitational office pool, go ahead and celebrate
Three Chinese golfers in the top 26.
Even at Megastores, Hagglers Find No Price Is Set in Stone
Aiyo. The reason I enjoy (or "enjoyed"?) shopping in the US: I don't have to worry about bargaining. That, along with the crowds (and a dearth of things that I want to buy) is why I avoid shopping in China. At least the story taught me a new word: dicker.
Dashalytics
is a free Dashboard Widget for your Apple Mac that offers quick access to Google Analytics statistics.
March 20 08
My friend Sage Brennan's appearance on CNBC the other day
If you happen to see him around Shanghai be sure to tell him his head's not big and he doesn't sound like a boob. (I was originally planning on downloading this and uploading it to Vimeo and then embedding it, but the Qingpu internet had other ideas.)
"Live" scoring for the KEB Invitational at Shanghai Silport Golf Club
The name you are looking for in the standings is 周训书. (Be warned that the scores aren't exactly updated with lightning fast speed or precision.) More info here.
March 19 08
Live in Miami? Check out my brother-in-law's jazz trio on April 5 at the American Legion Hall in the MiMo district
"Jazz trio Sonido Batido will perform some original works as well as classic improvisational jazz in a traditional bar setting—its going to feel like a real 'Speak Easy' when the Jazz starts to flow." Notice he's wearing a Shanghaiist T-shirt in the pic.
Trailhead : Cracked Kristol : This morning, the New York Times ran a Bill Kristol column whose entire bloated argument balanced on a tenuous, factually incorrect fulcrum
"Kristol and the Times have since issued an apology and a correction, but this was an especially preventable offense. Slate’s Map the Candidates tool shows Obama spent the day in Florida ..." Not the last lie we'll hear from the right.
March 17 08
"Obama’s Brother in China," New York Times Op-Ed by Roger Cohen
"But you can already see the headlines: Obama has brother in China! You can hear the whisperings about a polygamous father." I wonder if people think less of my brother now — he has a brother in China, you know.
Zhou Xunshu enjoys best-ever China Tour finish in Guangzhou
And in around five hours he arrives in Shanghai for a non-China Tour golf tournament at Shanghai Silport Golf Club.
Re: NYT story on the Global Democratic Primary — I had no idea that the majority of our delegate votes were from superdelegates
"Obama ... gained three delegate votes, to the one and a half delegate votes for ... Clinton. ... 22 Democrats Abroad delegates will attend the party’s national convention ..., each representing a half-vote when superdelegates and others are included."
"Golf bars" in Korea
Replace the karaoke machines with indoor golf simulators and there you have it. Girls in min-skirts remain.
March 16 08
Even round has Zhou Xunshu tied for 6th heading into final round of Guangzhou Championship
His best finish on the China Tour is an 8th place recorded last year at the Guangzhou leg. Zhou tees off at 10:09 am on Sunday.
March 14 08
美国全国广播公司(NBC)关注欧米茄中国巡回赛
"欧米茄中国巡回赛举办以来已经吸引了众多国外媒体的关注。2007年，美国自由作家丹(Dan Washburn)跟踪采访了整个赛季的欧米茄中国巡回赛，其关于巡回赛的系列报道引起美国全国广播公司(NBC)的极大兴趣。"
NBC News zooms in on Omega China Tour
"The show, which will air on NBC’s popular Nightly News show in the coming weeks, follows up from a series of stories by Dan Washburn highlighting the growth of the Tour and the fascinating background of many of its players."
Rough day sends Zhou Xunshu out of top 10 in Guangzhou
But he's still only four strokes out of the top three.
March 13 08
Live scoring for Round One of the 2008 China Tour season opener
If you need someone to root for, try Zhou Xunshu, the primary focus of my work-in-progress, Par for China.
March 12 08
"We’re going to get to know Pennsylvania like it’s our college girlfriend."
I'd date Pennsylvania.
China Film Journal
The new site from Shanghaiist contributor and man about town, Peijin Chen.
Neocha's NEXT Player: Free Chinese indie music for you
Via Shanghaiist. Is it me, or is lots of Chinese indie music in English?
March 10 08
I am attending something called the Shanghai Geek Dinner tonight
So, I guess now it's official.
Dancers in the Crowd Bring Back ‘Thriller’
Guerrilla marketing from Sony BMG in honor of song's 25th b-day. Seemingly impromptu zombie dances in cities througout the world. Why the need for the soft sell? Understatement of the day: "Mr. Jackson is not only somewhat tarnished, but also reclusive."
Thriller on the London Tube:
Serving Up Television Without the TV Set
The NYT discusses "a sharp shift in entertainment viewing that was thought to be years away: watching television episodes on a computer screen is now a common activity for millions of consumers." In Shanghai, we've been downloading TV shows since '02.
Southern Baptists: OK, maybe climate change does exist after all
No word on evolution.
Baseball tries to hit one over the Great Wall: Padres facing Dodgers, but in China, basketball is the main competition
Union-Tribune: "Dan Washburn ... covered opening day for the Shanghai Golden Eagles in 04. He reported that the 2,500-seat stadium was filled ... with schoolchildren ordered to be there. When school let out, in the fourth inning, there was a mass exodus."
March 8 08
Anyone else having trouble using Firefox on a Mac?
Based on this Google search, the answer is "Yes." It never shuts down properly (I always have to force quit) and now I have started getting the spinning beach ball of death over and over. Time to try Camino.
March 7 08
When you've got a tool like this, you've got to build a shed over it
Or, in this case, a house — made of 50,000 beer cans. After a $400,000 renovation, John Milkovisch's do-it-yourself aluminum siding project in Texas, is now open to the public. Good quote: “One good thing about not having any zoning is you can do stuff."
Final 12 are revealed on 'American Idol'
I will never admit to watching or following or even being aware of a TV show called American Idol. But if, for some reason, I was to watch the show twice a week on Star TV, I would tell you that I actually agree with all four cuts made this week.
March 5 08
Yes, MSG, the Secret Behind the Savor
"Even now, after Chinese restaurant syndrome has been thoroughly debunked (virtually all studies since then confirm that monosodium glutamate in normal concentrations has no effect on the overwhelming majority of people), the ingredient has a stigma ..."
Yankees buying into new way of doing things under Girardi (and I can't wait until Opening Day)
Mike Mussina seemed to be speaking for the entire team when he said, "We loved Joe, but we all knew things had to be different. Especially the guys who've been here a while and haven't won, we were very disappointed at the way things had been going."
March 3 08
Remarks of Illinois State Sen. Barack Obama Against Going to War with Iraq
From October 2, 2002.
LeBron James can jump really, really high
Check out the dunk in this ESPN.com video of last night's win over the Bulls. (For some reason, I can't embed.)
March 2 08
I just uninstalled the Access Flickr Firefox add-on, and now Flickr works normally again ... almost
Little icons and thumbnails don't always load -- on both Flickr.com and danwashburn.com -- regardless of whether I use Firefox or Safari. With the add-on active, my most recent images were not loading at all. Anyone know what's up?
Shanghaiist: Tian Jia, heavenly fish
Took Bliss here last night for her birthday, and I can concur: The fish and crab (and service) at this place are amazing. We both got RMB 250 set menus and came away thinking it was a bargain. Wasn't too crowded on a Saturday night, either.
Jeff Mangum, the Salinger of indie rock. - By Taylor Clark - Slate Magazine
Seems like I should have known Neutral Milk Hotel's In the Aeroplane Over the Sea was about Anne Frank, but I didn't.
February 29 08
RSSFWD - RSS Straight into your email inbox
Nifty. Using it to keep track of this feed.
February 28 08
A Light in Italy, an exhibition opening April 3, 2008 at Quinlan Visual Arts Center in Gainesville, Georgia
If you happen to be in the area, please consider attending to support my friend, artist Jim Chapman, and honor the memory of his late wife, Marta. Click the link above to learn more about Marta's story and to see some of the works to be exhibited.
February 19 08
Winners were announced last night for the 2008 Laureus World Sports Awards, which some call "the Oscars of world sport"
More like "Oscars of non-American sport." Which is fine. Just call it what it is. Team of the Year noms: AC Milan, Australia Cricket, Ferrari Motor Racing, Germany Women's Football, Iraq Football, South African Rugby. US sports truly exist in a bubble.
February 18 08
I had no idea Keith Van Horn has been out of the NBA since 2006
The guy is two years younger than me. I read about his early retirement in reports about the now on-again Jason-Kidd-to-Dallas deal. Van Horn could now be part of that trade (the Mavs still own his rights). Link goes to an ESPN.com story from 2006.
February 17 08
Historic Shanghai: The people, places and ideas that made Shanghai what it is today
"The Historic Shanghai blog is an effort to create a space dedicated to exploring the city’s fascinating heritage. A place where interested people – wherever in the world – can obtain information, exchange experiences and gain insights."
Mao offered U.S. 10 million women
"You know, China is a very poor country," Mao said, according to a document released by the State Department. "We don't have much. What we have in excess is women. So if you want them we can give a few of those to you, some tens of thousands."
February 16 08
12 states debate guns on campus
"[A] small but growing movement had been underway at universities and state legislatures to allow students, faculty and staff to carry guns on campus." What an amazingly stupid idea.
Ewing, Olajuwon lead hoops Hall of Fame finalists
Finally, some good news for Knicks fans.
February 14 08
Today we're listening only to songs with the word "LOVE" in the title
Click the link to follow along.
ESPN's Jayson Stark live blogs the Roger Clemens congressional hearings
Riveting (and sad) stuff. Not a good day for baseball.
LIVE Video: Congress Hears Clemens and McNamee
It's obvious Congressman Paul Kanjorski (my congressman) has never heard of Jose Canseco.
Away from Her (2007)
Downloaded this. Was simply checking to see if the file was OK, but the film grabbed me and I watched the whole wonderful thing. Honest, thoughtful, sweet .... and heartbreaking. If you've ever loved another human being, this movie will move you.
February 13 08
Atonement (2007)
Wish I had seen this in the theater. The kind of film you want to be swept in by. I still liked it, quite a lot (although it dragged a bit mid-way), but would I have liked it more had I not watched it on TV with two cute dogs also vying for my attention?
February 11 08
YouTorrent.com (BETA) - Your Torrents. Real Time.
My new favorite torrent search engine.
3:10 to Yuma (2007)
One of my favorite movies of the year. A rousing Western with heart. (Good thing the Dan Evans charcater is also Batman — a normal person with a wooden leg wouldn't be able to jump from rooftop to rooftop so well.)
I Am Legend (2007)
Got off to good start in a summer blockbuster sort of way — helped us ignore the CNY fireworks outside. Enjoyed seeing overgrown NYC. Didn't mind CGI zombies. But started to fall apart after the dog died ... and then got all religious on me. Didn't work
February 10 08
Charlie Wilson's War (2007)
Likable enough, but loses major points for basically glossing over the fact that we are still paying for Charlie Wilson's war in bodies, blood and dollars by the billion. Would have liked to have seen a darker take on the subject matter.
American Gangster (2007)
It's been a while since I watched it, but I remember liking this movie. I remember liking it quite a bit. But I also remember thinking there was something keeping it from being a "great" movie — I don't think I ever knew what that something was, however
February 9 08
Before the Devil Knows You're Dead (2007)
I am not sure why I didn't like this more than I did. It's a smart film that has much of what you look for: Excellent acting, an engaging narrative, Marisa Tomei naked ... But for some reason I didn't care about any of the characters. Left me empty.
Analysis: Obama has advantage in head-to-head with McCain
"In the CNN poll, Obama leads McCain by 8 points, 52 percent to 44 percent. ... And in the Time poll, Obama leads McCain by 7 points, 48 percent to 41 percent ... In both polls, Obama looks stronger than Clinton. Why?" Because he's the better candidate.
February 5 08
China Rail Trip Becomes 61-Hour Ordeal
"He described fighting among drunken passengers and staff armed with knives, fears of being robbed by those desperate for food, and breathing air so foul that some people became dizzy." Happy Chinese New Year, everyone!
February 4 08
Eli Manning, David Tyree show why Giants are Super this night
Mike Lupica on "The Play."
Maria Shriver endorses Obama
"California first lady Maria Shriver on Sunday endorsed Sen. Barack Obama for the Democratic nomination for president, becoming the latest member of the Kennedy clan to line up behind the senator from Illinois." Take that, Mr. Governator.
February 3 08
Greek Taverna
I am willing to travel to Pudong for good Greek food. But what's the best way to get to Thumb Plaza?
February 2 08
Video: Living under house arrest in Beijing
"Chinese state security police have arrested one of the country’s most prominent civil rights activists. In a video diary, he recorded life under house arrest — and round-the-clock surveillance — with his wife." Scary.
January 31 08
Nader takes steps towards another White House bid
Just in time to ruin another election. What an ass.
January 30 08
"Rethinking the Meat-Guzzler," by Mark Bittman, The New York Times
"Though some 800 million people on the planet now suffer from hunger or malnutrition, the majority of corn and soy grown in the world feeds cattle, pigs and chickens." Admittedly, my decision to eat less meat was made for selfish reasons: my health.
Super Bowl Predictions: Things looking worse for my Giants
It's never a good sign when players (or owners) start guaranteeing victory. Even worse when they start guaranteeing exact scores. Plaxico Burress says the Giants will win Super Bowl XLII 23-17.
January 29 08
The Periphery: Belated Albums of 2007
"The albums that my brain tells me were the best, the most innovative, the most interesting, the ones that will have influence and that will still be listened to 10 years from now—are not necessarily the ones I listened to most." From my friend Richmond
2008 Major League Baseball China Series - Ticket Booking
Tickets not available yet, but you can sign up for email updates.
January 28 08
Morrow & Me: Making Jules Verne look like a slacker
"Documenting the single greatest business (with a vacation in the middle) trip ever taken. 5 weeks. 3 continents. 2 co-workers." Ah, to work for Google. My friend Frank (the "me") will hit Shanghai twice on his journey.
Ron Artest used the word "crunk" in a post-game interview
The Sacramento Bee put "wild" in parentheses after crunk.
January 27 08
Juno (2007)
Overrated. Maybe I've been abroad too long, but ... Do people really act like this? Do people really talk like this? Title character annoyed me — felt like a 20-year-old playing a 16-year old as written by a 30-year-old. Re-watch Rushmore instead.
A woman views a video on a Shanghai website showing a young Chinese couple embracing at a metro station in Shanghai January 22 - AFP Photo
The Shanghai website pictured is Shanghaiist.
January 24 08
Shanghaiist: Barack Obama and the Global Primary
"Supporters of Barack Obama are hosting an event at 7pm next Tuesday, January 29th. ... The party will be held at the bistro roomtwentyeight at the new boutique URBN hotel, with drinks and snacks to be served." I'll be there.
Sam On The Way by Brian Dominguez (Book) in Parenting & Families
A collection of letters from father to son, written by a guy I have known since pre-school.
January 23 08
Squash: Definitely not the sport of the mollycoddled
I wrote this story nearly eight years ago (God, that's scary) after my first experience with the sport of squash. I just had my second experience today, and hope to play regularly from now on ... until my next debilitating injury, that is.
January 22 08
The Joy of Sets Blog
From my friend (and former colleague) Damian Holbrook, who is still working at TV Guide after all these years. (For about six months in 1996-1997, I was a sports copy editor at TV Guide — my first job out of college. Ah, good ol' Radnor, Pennsylvania.)
January 21 08
Americans abroad can now vote online
"This year, for the first time, expatriate Democrats can cast their ballots on the Internet in a presidential primary for people living outside the United States." Yay!
Giants stun Packers in OT
Whew! My cheesy headline choice: "Second Tynes a charm." Bet you it shows up somewhere.
UPDATE: I told you so ...
January 19 08
The Hype Machine - discover, listen and buy music discussed on the best mp3 blogs
"The Hype Machine follows music blog discussions. Every day, thousands of people around the world write about music they love — and it all ends up here." Not a bad way to check out new tunes.
Songza - The music search engine & internet jukebox
"Songza lets you listen to any song or band." Yep, that's what it does. What will the kids think of next?
January 17 08
Hillary's "Experience" Lie: If that's her selling point, put me down for Obama
"Clinton's claim to superior experience isn't merely dishonest. It's also potentially dangerous. ... If Clinton continues to build her campaign on the dubious foundation ... it shouldn't be very difficult for her GOP opponent to pull that edifice down."
January 16 08
The triumphant return of American Gladiators
Many moons ago, I watched (a lot of) the original American Gladiators. During college breaks, I'd come home from a night out and watch it with my mom (The Real World was the other show we'd often watch together). I wonder what Nitro's up to these days.
January 14 08
Once (2007)
This movie taught me I could actually enjoy a musical. Very touching ... and now available on DVD in Shanghai. Downloading the soundtrack as I type this.
Waitress (2007)
We popped this DVD in during our recent Chicago-Shanghai flight ... and I couldn't figure out why it got decent reviews. Annoying. The laptop battery died about midway though, and we don't have any desire to see how it ends. Should we?
Superbad (2007)
Not sure what this says about me, but I loved it. Liked it much better than Knocked Up or Wedding Crashers or 40 Year Old Virgin or Old School or any of the other popular comedies of recent years. Guess I just have a soft spot for cock drawings.
Too Much Sugar-Free Gum Linked to Severe Weight Loss
I would classify myself as a "problem chewer" — no side effects yet. Around 10 pounds would be fine with me, however.
January 10 08
Sonido Batido Jazz Band on MySpace
Listen to Bliss' brother, A.J. Khaw, play piano in this Miami-based trio.
January 9 08
Universty of Georgia president calls for an eight-team playoff system for college football's top division
According to ESPN.com, Michael F. Adams is "saying the Bowl Championship Series -- which left Georgia out of its championship game -- has become a 'beauty contest largely stage-managed by the networks.'" Hear hear! But will it be televised in Asia?
January 7 08
Coca-Cola's curvy logo is officially called the 'Dynamic Ribbon Device'
That's what I learned when I got bored on my 14 hour flight from Chicago yesterday (surprise, surprise) and started to read the side of my Hong Kong-produced can of Diet Coke (aka Coke Light). The DRD has been trademarked since 1969.
January 1 08
The Inn at Turkey Hill, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania
Two years ago today, I proposed to Bliss on a snowy New Year's Eve at this country inn in my hometown. We're heading there again tonight to celebrate the anniversary of our engagement and to welcome 2008 in style (preferably seated in our room's jacuzzi).
December 27 07
Sole Cafe in Fort Myers Beach, Florida
WiFi for $4 a day. Decent blueberry muffins. Guy behind the counter wearing a Bloomsburg University football T-shirt. Go figure.
December 19 07
TorrentSpy loses Calif. copyright lawsuit
"TorrentSpy is maintaining its site internationally, with servers located in The Netherlands, Rothken said. 'As a practical matter it is business as usual for the site because it is unlikely that a U.S. court could impact international use.'" Whew.
Rupert Everett questions George Clooney's intellect and manhood, and says he is so dumb he will eventually be president
"Clooney thinks that, provided he does films which are politically committed, he's allowed to do Ocean's 11, 12, 13," said. "But the Ocean's films are a cancer to the world culture. They're destroying us." This comes from the star of Inspector Gadget.
They were just introducing the New Orleans Saints starting offense on Monday Night Football and I heard "Bloomsburg"
Turns out Jahri Evans, a starting guard for the Saints, attended Bloomsburg University, the NCAA Division II school in my hometown. Check out the link -- you don't see too many guys sporting eyeglasses in their official NFL photographs.
December 10 07
Read about how I almost burned down our house
Actually, I can rephrease that to make me look better: Read about how I saved our house from being burned down! More importantly, read about all the new sports channels we get on our satellite now (even more since I posted this on Shanghaiist).
December 8 07
Bend Over Beijing
Story about Shanghaiist editor Kenneth Tan's underwear shop in Beijing, called Manifesto (just like his shop in Shanghai). Love the diagram.
December 2 07
Maximum Klinger too much for Marian
"Spurred by the inspired second-half running of Jordan Klinger, Bloomsburg came back from a 7-0 deficit to beat Marian, 21-7, in a PIAA Class A quarterfinal game at Blue Mountain High School on Friday night." This is history in the making, people.
November 30 07
Dan Wasburnt
Google search for my doppelganger over at a Shanghaiist spoof site. Yes, there is a Shanghaiist spoof site.
Uh oh, I have let myself go "stale"
Does that mean at one point I was "fresh"? I can only hope so. I always thought Alonso was a pretty nice guy, too. Oh well.
November 29 07
In Golf We Trust - The Duffer's Guide to Golf in China
"Here is a brief guide - in great deal thanks to the tireless efforts of China-based golf tracker Dan Washburn, whose forthcoming book on the rise of our game in the world's most populous nation promises to be a must-read." Thanks, guys!
November 26 07
ESPN.com: My Q&A with Zhang Lianwei, China's pro golf pioneer
This is the last installment of my series of stories on pro golf in China.
PUTT.com comments on my ESPN.com story about Omega China Tour golfer Zhou Xunshu
"... a fantastic story of what it means to play our great sport of golf to some around the world that don’t have the same benefit people in our country have ... Zhou Xunshu is an inspiration ... and it should make for motivation to many around the world."
November 25 07
Bloomsburg routs Lack Trail
"Led by tailback Jordan Klinger, Bloomsburg broke open a close game with 28 second-quarter points as the Panthers defeated Lackawanna Trail, 49-27, in a PIAA Class A first round game Friday night." As Bobby might say: "Let's go Big Red!"
Santas warned 'ho ho ho' offensive to women
"Santas in Australia's largest city have been told not to use Father Christmas's traditional 'ho ho ho' greeting because it may be offensive to women ... Sydney's Santa Clauses have instead been instructed to say 'ha ha ha'." This is a joke, right?
DropSend | Email large files easily and securely
Used this today. So far, it does what it says it does.
November 12 07
brandchannel.com's interview with Gothamist editor and co-founder Jen Chung
Is "Shanghaiist" really that hard to spell?
November 9 07
Not what you want to read when your plane takes off in six hours: USA Today leads with word that fatigue has caused hundreds of workers in the airline industry to make mistakes since 2003
" ... fatigue caused 750 incidents, mostly involving pilots. There were six cases of pilots falling asleep in the middle of a flight, including one where the pilot and co-pilot fell asleep while the plane was descending toward an airport." Awesome.
Darjeeling Limited, The (2007)
Anyone found this on DVD yet in Shanghai? (I ask because American Gangster was avaailable in near perfect DVD form here one week before its theatrical release ... not that I'd ever buy a pirated DVD, of course.)
Stern: NBA won't return to Seattle if Sonics leave (and could new team mascot be hamburger on roller skates?)
Last night I dined with an Oklahoman friendly with team ownership. He said there is no way in hell they are staying in Seattle; there never was. Also, the Sonic restaurant chain is based in OK, and could be a sponsor/partner for the team once relocated.
Live Scoring for the HSBC Champions golf tournament in Shanghai
Just in case you want to follow along.
November 5 07
Gmail Signature Float
"This script came into existence because I got sick and tired of copy and pasting my signature from below quoted messages to above quoted messages." Seems to have stopped working with the new Gmail. Suggestions?
Why has ESPN Asia stopped showing NFL games?
A link to my post on Shanghaiist about this most pressing issue.
Shanghaiist: The most bizarre "Take care of your belongings" sign ... ever
"Does the image — some kind of bowling barbarian hoarding his pelts, 'ancient' bowling pins and balls and, of course, one human skull — make any sense to anyone?" Spotted at a Shanghai bowling alley on Saturday.
November 2 07
Who wants to buy the Elizabethtown Hotel (otherwise known as Wolg's by old people like me)?
Only $695,000.
Sopranos Final Season: We finally watched the finale
Didn't fill me with rage, but an awkward ending. Always thought the most realistic ending would show life going on as "normal", and I think that is what happened (no proof that he was killed). But ending could have been more satisfying and profound.
October 29 07
Cal Ripken to visit China as State Department envoy
"In his first assignment for the government, Ripken is headed on a 10-day tour through China, teaching baseball to Chinese youth and coaches. But the real mission of his appointment ... is much bigger: portraying a positive image of America."
Agent: A-Rod opts out of contract with Yankees
Dear Alex, Please consult your wife's T-shirt to know how I feel about you right now. Thanks, Dan
Annoying low budget ads for Grand Lisboa Hotel and Casino in Macau have taken over my Filipino satellite television system
The silly ads focus on the casino's owner, Stanley Ho, the wealthiest man in Macau (and apparently a collector of horses and big diamonds). Most annoying? They don't always wait until commercial breaks to show the ad. They just interrupt whatever is on.
October 24 07
Front-runner Mattingly ready to manage Yankees
Donnie Baseball was one of my childhood idols. I had an entire wall in my bedroom dedicated to him, and I still have an extensive collection of his baseball cards in the attic. All for him as the next Yanks skipper, even though it makes me feel very old.
Tests help mutt owners find identity
"The tests, which cost as little as $65, are the result of several years of work by scientists who gathered a large pool of DNA samples from thousands of dogs to create a sort of genetic roadmap of breeds." We will definitely be doing this.
October 7 07
UltraNewb: Share your Mac's internet connection wirelessly - Lifehacker
Haven't tried this yet. But looks promising.
Eagles look to awaken 'sleeping giant'
"Thorburn believes there is a place for rugby alongside the top sports of basketball, American football, ice hockey and baseball." Good luck, buddy.
September 17 07
Beijing Hutong Inn - Beijing, China
I believe Bliss and I will be staying here with our moms for three days during October Holiday (unless a reader says something about the place that makes us change our minds). Anyone stay here before?
Bloomsburg shocks five-time defending state champ Southern Columbia
"Coombe threw for 129 yards ... and a pair of touchdowns and was part of a suffocating defense that yielded just 42 yards rushing as Bloomsburg rolled over Southern 19-0 in a ... shocker. It was the Panthers' first win over the Tigers in 23 years." Wow.
September 9 07
St. Elmo's Fire (1985)
We are watching this for some reason right now. Perhaps not too surprisingly, all of the D.C.-circa-mid-80s apartment interiors featured in the film look exactly those one might expect to find in a design mag for nouveau riche Shanghainese circa 2007.
World Cup: Barkley scores 18 points to lead England to a 28-10 win over the U.S. team
First complete rugby match I have ever watched. If I was exposed to it more, I could see myself getting into it. Question: What percentage of Americans know the Rugby World Cup is going on right now? My guess: 3 percent. No mention on ESPN.com front page.
September 8 07
The name "Dan Washburn" is ranked 307,221 out of 47,379,689
No, I am not exactly sure what this means. "Daniel Washburn" — which is what I am listed as — clocks in at 203,345. "Bliss Khaw" is unranked.
Google Maps Mania: Google Maps China Roundup
"Google Maps was updated at the start of Aug/07 with fresh satellite imagery for the cities of Beijing and Shanghai. In late July cities, major streets and roads were added throughout the country, as was map searching for cities and points of interest."
Bush, After Talks With China’s Leader, Accepts Invitation to Beijing Olympics
Yet another reason not to go.
The Life Hub @ Daning, Zhabei District, Shanghai, China
Finally visited this new(ish) entertainment complex last night ... and was pretty impressed. Not surprised to learn that Singaporeans were involved in its development. I used to live around the corner: Would I have moved if this and subway existed in '04?
“Walking speed absolutely reflects health status": Validation for the anger I feel when slow Shanghai walkers won't get out of my way
"So when you irritatedly blow past a trio of ambling visitors from Ohio or Iowa on the subway platform, you’re not just being an obnoxious New Yorker. You’re demonstrating that you’re going to outlive them—and enjoy better health while they slowly degrade."
Middle Tennessee vs. Louisville: This is what is currently on ESPN Asia — NOT the Indianapolis Colts vs. the New Orleans Saints, the NFL opener
Nice to see college football on the illegal satellite, but it seems NFL intake is going to take a hit this year. espnstar.com's TV sched shows no Sunday night NFL football, probably because those games are now on NBC in the US, not ESPN like before. Boo.
September 4 07
摩登天空音乐节 2007年10月2/3/4日 北京海淀公园 | Beijing Modern Sky Festival '07
Looks like the Yeah Yeah Yeahs will be headlining. One problem: The festival is during National Day week, and my mom and Bliss' mom are visiting China together (first time for both) during that holiday. American indie rock probably not on the itinerary.
September 3 07
Anyone else out there routinely get woken up by videos on ESPN.com starting to play in the middle of the night?
This likely has much to do with my crappy Chinese net connection—I forget the site is open and videos *should* be playing, and then I go to sleep, and then my connection decides to start working properly and videos start playing ... at 3:27 am. Startling.
September 2 07
The Bourne Ultimatum (2007)
Bliss found a screener quality DVD out in Jinqiao and we watched it almost immediately. A really fun ride. The Bond and Mission Impossible people should be taking notes. My one issue with the film: How did he get into the CIA offices to steal the files?
August 29 07
Feature: The Shanghai Diaries
It uses the tagline "a sinister cabal of superior writers," but BlogCritics Magazine doesn't come up with very original names for its features.
A dog in Shanghai? - You must be nuts -- Shanghai Daily
Whoever wrote this headline should be fired. It's very possible to own a dog (or two) here, and it is a very rewarding experience. Conditions are not always ideal, but a loving home is better than no home at all for the city's countless adoptable dogs.
August 27 07
Kunming, Day 4: Another top 10 finish
"Zhou Xun Shu rebounded from his rough Friday outing to go under par for the weekend, posting rounds of 71 and 70 on Saturday and Sunday to finish in a 5-way tie for 9th in the Kunming Leg of the Omega China Tour at Lakeview Golf Club in Yunnan Province."
August 25 07
Kunming, Day 2: Lost balls and missed opportunities
"Zhou Xun Shu walked off the 9th green with a 3-over 7 — slamming his putter into the grass, and then the pavement, repeatedly. He was out of the top 10, and then it started to rain."
August 24 07
Hey baby, what's your sign?
"ThisNext blog readers, we want to know what ‘s your sign? Not because we want to take you home but because we want you to go home with a Chinese zodiac necklace from Mudan Boutique." Enter today!
August 23 07
Kunming, Day 1: Strong start puts Zhou among leaders
Follow everyone's favorite Chinese golfer Zhou Xun Shu throughout the Kunming Leg of the Omega China Tour.
August 22 07
Dan Washburn Of Shanghaiist Gets Personal On China
Dan Harris of China Law Blog had some really nice things to say about some things I have written. Thanks, Dan! (I'd say I was blushing, but it might just be sunburn from Dali.)
August 21 07
Jim's Peace Cafe, 57 Bo'ai Road, near Huguo Lu, Dali Old Town, Yunnan, China
The Tibetan goulash here (get it with the homemade brown bread) may very well have been the best dish we tried in Dali, and that's saying a lot—we had some great food during our stay. No idea if it's authentic Tibetan or not (never been), but I want more.
Cafe de Jack, 82 Bo'ai Lu, near Huguo Lu, Dali Old Town, Yunnan, China
Enjoyed everything we tried at this popular Dali eatery, but the apple pie was the best we've had in China. It's a mini pie, prepared fresh (be prepared to wait) and we couldn't finish the whole thing. Served warm with a scoop of ice cream. Price? 9 kuai!
Bad Monkey Bar, 74-76 Renmin Lu, Dali Old Town, Yunnan, China
A nice place to have a few drinks and some interesting conversation. Be nice to Rebel the dog, please. He's had a rough go of it lately.
August 19 07
The Best Software for Mac OS X
"Essential software to make your Mac more awesome. Not having some of these tools is like having half a Mac. Others are just plain fun. You have a very cool computer... enjoy!"
August 18 07
Lazy Lizard Bar, 223 Renmin Lu, Dali Old Town, Yunnan, China
Wikitravel was accurate on this one. Lizard by door? Check. Good beer? Check. Tasty pizza? Check. Simpsons on big screen? Check. Eccentric owner? I'm gonna say "Check." Be sure to visit DALIBA, a fun and friendly flavored vodka bar across the street, too.
August 17 07
Dali Geothermal Paradise (大理地热国): Hot springs in Eryuan, about 1.5 hours by car from Dali Old Town
The link shows what this place would look like on a clear day, but it was overcast and drizzling during our visit today. It's actually a decent and relaxing rainy day activity. RMB68 per person. Not English language friendly. Showers are a little dingy.
Wooing the greats: Can a reporter/GM lure the NBA's greatest back for one more season?
My favorite line comes from Jud Buechler (OK, perhaps not really a "great"): "The only things I miss about the NBA are per diem and naps." I like how some former players really take the offer seriously ... and Danny Manning is already talking comps.
August 15 07
Antinea Airlines: Should I be worried?
We are at the Hongqiao Airport about to board one of this airline's planes to Kunming. Airline code is HO. Headquaters are in Algeria. Hub is Houari Boumedienne Airport. Never heard of Antinea before, and have no idea what they are doing in China. According the Wikipedia the airline is "defunct."
August 13 07
Could we end up moving to Pittsburgh?
Something we saw on TV got us daydreaming about progressive cities where you can actually, you know, do stuff outdoors. A quick Google search led us to this page. Open to suggestions, and no, we aren't moving anytime soon — Bliss is starting a new job.
iRiver T60: Music and a MacBook
Can anyone help solve the music issues I am having with my new mp3 player? (Any "Buy a PC" responses will be deleted.)
August 10 07
Phil Mickelson Takes Aim At HSBC Champions
"World No.3 Phil Mickelson is the latest star to commit to the HSBC Champions. He joins Ernie Els, Vijay Singh and Sergio Garcia in confirming he will be at the Sheshan International Golf Club, Shanghai, 8-11th November, 2007."
Philadelphia - The Revolution that Never Ended
Schmapped again. Not sure if they actually like my photos or the fact that I am willing to give them away for free. Click the link to see my pic of Independence Hall.
August 7 07
Global Rich List
Related to the previous link. See where your money ranks you globally. I'm rich, bitch!
In Silicon Valley, Millionaires Who Don’t Feel Rich
Awwww. Poor "working-class millionaires." I feel very sorry for them. The perfect way to make 98 percent of America think you are an asshole is to complain about being among the top 2 percent to the New York Times.
August 5 07
Nine Ways to Avoid Being Fooled by Counterfeit Golf Clubs
I suppose many people out there would prefer a post entitled "Nine Ways to Make Sure You are Buying Decent Quality Counterfeit Golf Clubs."
August 4 07
World Clock: What's happening ... RIGHT NOW?
From John Ise in Miami: "People being born, dying, oil being pumped, bicycles being produced, trees being cut, people getting married and divorced, and more on the world clock. Fascinating for geeks (I plead guilty)." I agree. Kinda cool. But I'm no geek.
August 2 07
Parsing the increasingly bizarre sayings of Ichiro Suzuki
Hilarious. Ichiro may very well be my new favorite ballplayer.
July 31 07
Shancai Shakedown by CacheousClay
Someone actually tried to find the cache I hid on Putuoshan back in 2003! (They were unsuccessful.)
"Clairaudients (Kill or Be Killed)," Bright Eyes
"If you think that God is keeping score, hooray!" Took me a couple listens to warm up to it, but I am starting to really enjoy Cassadaga.
July 29 07
Zodiac (2007)
One of the best movies I have seen in a while, from one of my favorite directors (Se7en was my No. 1 movie of 1995). Great cast. Properly spooky, and surprisingly funny. An All the President's Men for a new generation. Hopefully not forgotten come Oscar time.
July 28 07
Naked Ambition | Galleries | Golf.com
Photos of streakers at pro golf tournaments. At least one made Tiger smile.
July 26 07
SpinDaily - Design: Shanghai At Your Door
"One of our favorite online shopping sites for high quality fresh water pearls, jade jewelry, and Asian handbags is MudanBoutique.com. Watch the 2 minute SpinVideo to see why!" Yay! Should have vid embedded here soon.
Where to buy ACE bandages in Shanghai
Just in case you need some (like I currently do).
Ambassy Club
Bliss and I are now members at this curiously named club just a few minutes from our apartment, and I am fast becoming the Shanghai expat I vowed never to become back in 2002. It's more than three times more expensive than our current fitness club, but it's got an indoor swimming pool, and with my calf injury, swimming is one of the only things I can do (or at least that is how I am rationalizing it).
The Simpsons and Baseball
"Oh, God, I didn't realize how many people watched that show," Don Mattingly said. "All I heard at the stadium after that was 'Mattingly, I told you to shave those sideburns.' I still hear it."
July 25 07
ESPN - Major League Baseball Standings and Team Records
Watch out ... Yankees only 4.5 games out of the Wild Card spot. I feel kind of weird rooting for the Red Sox against the Indians (currently in the Wild Card lead) ... but you do what you gotta do (and Crisp and Lugo are on my fantasy team).
China Fast Forward: Travel And Living
Just watched the premiere episode of this series. The topic: Shanghai. Hit most of the typical intro-to-Shanghai spots. Nothing groundbreaking. But I kind of want to go see Shanghai Film Studio now. Not sure if I'll be watching the show regularly — it's very hard to get past the annoying host: David Wu (吴大维).
Calf Muscle Strain
I think I have a Grade One sprain ... again. First did this while jogging in Yanji, and I guess I didn't rest it enough because I just did it again at Gaelic football practice. This site says I need to rest it for three weeks. I am not happy about this.
July 19 07
Gary Player: Steroids have crept way into golf
"Whether it's HGH, whether it's Creatine or whether it's steroids, I know for a fact that some golfers are doing it," he said. Pretty sure this isn't an issue on the China Tour ... unless someone is spiking the Tsingtao.
Top 25 Golfers Under 25
ESPN.com's Jason Sobel compiled this list. None of the golfers are from China. Three are from Asia.
July 11 07
Zhou Xun Shu: A pro golfer on the China Tour | 周训书: 一个参 中巡赛的职业高尔夫球手
If you can't join us in Yanji this weekend, you can follow your soon-to-be favorite Chinese golfer's progress here. The China Tour's Yanji Leg begins Thursday and ends on Sunday.
July 10 07
해란강골프장 (Yanji Harangang Golf Resort)
Heading to this golf resort in Yanji, Jilin Province, on the North Korean border tomorrow for the fourth leg of the China Tour. The resort's website is only in Korean. (Plane tickets to Yanji ain't cheap.)
July 8 07
One of my photos has been Schmapped
My life is complete. (And I could sure go for a Krispy Kreme right about now.)
July 7 07
Kipsta F700 Pro soccer cleats (aka 'football boots')
My first pair of cleats since 1991. Purchased today at Decathlon. Kangaroo leather!
June 11 07
meebo.com
Browser based chat client that supports GTalk, Yahoo!, MSN and AIM. I am testing it now. Not too bad. One downside: No tabs. But looks like a great tool when traveling and using computers that are not your own.
June 10 07
Make your own Shanghai street sign!
Not bad, but do you notice the error in the sign I made and posted here?
May 28 07
"The Shanghai punks send their love."
Thurston Moore at Coachella. Just found this quote while doing a Google News search for "shanghai car horn." Don't ask.
April 16 07
Photo of me with popular Chinese blogger Keso
Taken at the Tudou.com second anniversary party on Saturday. Here is Keso's blog.
April 6 07
Central Park Calls in the Dogs, Hoping They’ll Drive Out the Geese - New York Times
We are pretty sure Tux is some kind of a miniature border collie. We hope to be able to teach him "the stare." Click link for photo.
April 3 07
Linfen, China: The world's most polluted city: An audio essay
I was there in 2004. Read my report: "Haoyi Village: ‘There were more blue skies 10 years ago’." Not much has changed.
April 2 07
Daily Bread: Shanghai’s newest food trend isn’t exactly new. The sandwich is seemingly everywhere these days, and the market is getting bullish.
"'There’s certainly been a huge increase in sandwich availability since I arrived here in 2002,' says blogger Dan Washburn of Shanghaiist.com, who’s been heckled by online commentators for spending too much time covering the handheld lunch." The local media knows who to come to for hard-hitting quotes.
Go gaga for Shanghai's newest generation of internet celebrities
They'll call anyone a "web celeb" these days. Not a great photo — and, no, it's not my keyboard.
America’s ‘Seinfeld’ strategy in Iraq
"The Iraq policy pursued by the Bush administration satisfies the Costanza criterion: it is the opposite of every foreign policy the world has ever met." I still love a Seinfeld reference, even after all these years.
April 1 07
BlogMailr - Publish from your email straight to your blog
Works. And it's free. Using this on my new personal page.