THE STAR WARS TRILOGY - Watched the Star Wars films for the first time in about five years. (The original, unfucked with versions, via the special features discs off the 2006 DVD release.) It's thrilling to rediscover one of your first loves. The pacing and economy of storytelling on display are impressive. These films move, yet never feel rushed; there's just no fat on them. No redundant scenes with Frodo and Sam deciding whether or not the journey has been worth it. Jedi remains the weakest of the three, but y'know; during the multipronged end battle, I know exactly where everyone is relative to each other, and exactly what they're doing. I don't know if I could make that claim about any single action scene I've seen in the last decade, much less multiple/simultaneous action scenes in said films. Star Wars can still take on any sci-fi/fantasy upstarts well into the 21st century. The king stay the king.
SPRECHER SODA - Particularly their Puma Kola, which combines vanilla, cinnamon and honey flavors. Fire-brewed in Milwaukee, just a (gigantic) stone's throw away. I used to scoff at caffeine-free beverages, but as I'm attempting to ease off my habit, these colas have provided a methadone to my madness. Check 'em out!
PITTSBURGH: A NEW PORTRAIT - A richly detailed book, taking a look at the birth, death, and rebirth of the Steel City, through the lenses of culture, architecture, and innovation. Some incredible photos and drawings from all eras. A perfect read for Washington's birthday!
JOHN BYRNE'S RUN ON THE FANTASTIC FOUR - This is five years worth of work from one of comic's most influential artists, during the peak years of his power; the early eighties. Byrne won't be remembered as a great wordsmith, but he has a brain for outlandish stories and the pen to back them up with. This is immediately following his rightly legendary collaboration with Chris Claremont on the Uncanny X-Men, just to put the timeframe in perspective. Great fun so far. (I've only read about a year's worth at this point).
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