Realm of the Wombat

The final proof that bowling is not a sport

Now your childhood dream of becoming a Transformer can come true

Yet another difference between South Bend and Ann Arbor: Fairy Doors

Today’s must watch: Why does Congressman Lynn Westmoreland (R - GA 8) think we need the Ten Commandments displayed in Congress? So he can learn what they are. [LINK FIXED!]

A few words about the opening act. Smoosh [official site / allmusic bio] is a duo of sisters from Seattle, aged 14 and 12. They played at the Fillmore in San Francisco. This is an awesome way to spend one’s summer vacation.

What makes an Eels show great is that it’s going to be unique, almost by definition. The studio albums incorporate a substantial amount of electronics, which E doesn’t try to repicate live. Additionally, this tour is featuring a fourth member of the band. “Member of the band” might be a generous description. Krazy Al came on stage wearing a black t-shirt with “SECURITY” on front and back. At first, it seemed he was only on stage to look intimidating while E and Co. rocked the opener, Shoe to Drop. It wasn’t long though before he became part of the act, bringing E a phone mid-song, then put on a full blown martial arts demonstration. In addition to the visual and background vocals, he provided supporting percussion with lead pipes and bells. He even jammed on E’s guitar for a few minutes in the middle of “Guest List” while E went off-stage and later handled the keyboard as well. Other highlights of the main set were a solo variant of “Last Stop: This Town” and a gospel choir-esque “My Beloved Monster.” During the encore, Smoosh came back on stage, danced around with Krazy Al, and provided background vocals. It was a scene.

See the Eels setlist from the Fillmore…

I was at the Cal Eye Center yesterday for a contact lens fitting. The way it works is that an optometry student does the exam, then the attending doctor comes in to confirm that the student isn’t completely wrong. Anyway, after the student found out I work in the chemistry department, he gave high praise for Steve P., who is one of the organic instructors. He then added:

“I think that was the only science class I ever did well in.”

Well, better that he did well in one science class than zero before judging my eyes healthy.

Think killing Zarqawi was such a great achievement? I wonder why we didn’t go after him earlier though. Oh, it was because the administration chose not to act on three plans developed by the Pentagon.

Here’s a fun topic on a fun site: The Most Boring (Baseball) Card Ever Made

Confirming what we already suspected: West Virginians have the US’s worst teeth

Oh the things that Odie wants me to look at on the internets: Hot Dog with Mustard Flavored Potato Chips

Is this the producer of Toy Story 2 or just a big fan? I don’t know, but they did spring for the vanity plates. Classy.

This is the problem with our disposable society.