Dave's Fave

The Best Yet: CBS' Big Brother 12

This season's Big Brother has to be the best season yet. Not only are the houseguests a mixed bag of the educated and idiotic, but Brendon Villegas has to be the hottest contestant the show has ever featured. And his "showmance" with Rachel Reilly is truly entertaining to watch. And did I note Brendon looks amazing in black? Mmmmmmk.

Cristiano's Metamorphosis

Is it just me, or is Cristiano Ronaldo starting to look like an Oompa Loompa? Ease off on the tanning creams, beds and sunlight Mister. You're not working for Willy Wonka.

Magic Potion

Because the exterior of our house has been overrun by spiders, I decided to take matters into my own hands by crafting a magic, non-toxic potion consisting of peppermint soap and a few drops of Neem and lavender oil. I read on-line the mixture would kill the pesky insects. So away I went, spraying the railings, steps and sides of the house last night. Not only did it smell good, the spiders (and ants) seem to have somewhat disappeared. I'm sure they'll return, so I have another bottle waiting in the rear.

Gilt Fan

If you don't know about GILT, you're missing out on some great fashions at discount prices. That, and some hotties. Today's model for WeSC caught my eye. So, of course I had to share him with you. The shirt ain't half bad either.

Gym Tales

As I entered the gym locker room today, there was an overweight man in front of the first set of mirrors shaving. He was butt naked with his skin folds resting on the counter. Good for him that he's there, I'm assuming, to lose a bit of weight. But must, I say must he stand naked with his excess flopped onto the cold marble? I think not. At least wear a towel. If anything, it just reaffirms my desire to never, ever, never place my toothbrush on the countertops.

PTT"s Take on Today's Pop

Katy Perry's second single, Teenage Dream, continues today's radio artists' focus on pure pop songs with not only catchy melodies but instrumentation that recalls the days of 80s superstars Kim Wilde and Pat Benatar. All of which makes me smile. Because the music that we had to endure through the middle of this decade was, how can I note this delicately, horrendous.

More From Chris

And no, not my other half but Chris Hemsworth from Thor. Maybe next year I should find myself swarming amongst all the geeks at Comic-Con in San Diego.

Gaga Returns the Favor

Lady Gaga continues to show why she's a class act. After her performance in Dallas Friday night, she RETURNED to the gay country bar Round-up to surprise her fans. It was just two years ago that she entertained the crowd, as a virtually unknown artist, with the song Love Game. In short, pretty cool.

A Rough Day 4 Whinnie

Yahtzee! Anyone?

Chris and I bought our house with the hopes of creating an environment where we could hang out with our friends. So of course, it makes me happy when those close to use come over on Sunday Funday to play Yahtzee! in the backyard. Sure, at first you might think, "Yahtzee!, really?" But relaxing outdoors, and playing the game created in 1956, is the perfect way to spend an afternoon with friends as you talk, laugh, and enjoy each others company.

First Pepper Picked

It's the first pepper picked from my green pepper plant planted in May. Pasta tomorrow night perhaps?

Chris Hemsworth as Thor

With the beginning of Comic-Con last week (the largest convention dedicated to comic books, entertainment and gaming) comes the onslaught of images from upcoming comic book inspired films. Check out Chris Hemsworth in Thor. My, that one mighty hammer (or two).

Am I a Fanboy?

Pink Trash Travels to: Salt

I've never fallen in love with Angelina Jolie. But after seeing the over-the-top Salt, I can now officially say I'm a fan. The film was fast paced, and Angie looked great. My friend Patrick thought it was okay. "She's not Spider Man" he said. But I replied, "You have to suspend your disbelief." By doing so, you'll see Salt for what it is: an action packed summer adventure with a pretty, pretty lady.

C U Dec. 6 PW

A Bit of Advice

My interviews over the past few weeks seem to have a common thread - the employer has little regard for the candidate in question. They are unfocused and act inappropriately. I'm thinking it might be the end result of how the job market still hasn't rebounded - leaving a myriad of individuals hunting for jobs. However, that gives little excuse for their behavior. Remember, I'm there to interview the company just as much as the reverse situation.

So here's a bit of advice to all you hiring managers: be attentive, courteous and respectful to someone taking the time to establish a relationship with you and your company. You just might want to hire them someday.

Looking Forward 2 It

Pee Free Target

I stopped by the new Target today that opened just a few blocks away. The store is shiny, bright, clean and quiet. It was magical. I walked around just absorbing the scenery and appreciating how smooth the new carts rolled. Odd to think a store opening can make one feel so giddy. But it does. If only it would stay this way - pee free.

Chipotle's Happy Pigs Promise

For those of you who've never heard of Chipotle, let me note that, "It's delicious!" The burritos rolled by hand in front of you, filled with your choice of beef, chicken or pork, are a fresh alternative to those you'd find at Taco Bell. The ingredients are fresh. And according to the interview found below, the "food with integrity" is quite unique with their pork harvested from happy pigs living in the woods (for example). But as I watched the six minute piece, I couldn't help but think, "We still eat these poor pigs." But I guess they live a happy life for a few good months.

More Brendon from Big Brother

Take Backs?

I've raved about True Blood's Joe Manganiello on PTT in the past. But after watching the clip below from ET, I'm thinking I might need to reconsider my loyalties to the new werewolf. He sounds like an idiot - talking about meat and all. Besides that, he's looking a bit rough (and with crazy eyes). Sorry Joe.

PTT Thinks...

I'm thinking I need to go to San Diego's Pride event, "The Zoo Party", next year. The event looks like fun. And I'd like to go while I can still, somewhat, pull it all together.

PTT Rant

Last night, because my good friend Valerie was in town from New Jersey, we dined out at Rose Angelis. While everyone drank wine and mixed cocktails, I sipped water. I enjoyed a salad and shared a bit of food with the gang. When it came time to pay the bill, it was assumed we'd evenly split the end result. When my gal pal Val noted how I'd be irritated by the turn of events, someone noted that, "It all evens out in the end." This person then went on to say something to the effect of, "If you don't want to do it, then don't go out to eat." Okay, here I go.

For starters, I wouldn't mind splitting the bill so much if it wasn't ASSUMED it was okay to do so. When members of the party are enjoying three or four cocktails (and/or wine), with each costing between $8-$10, and your'e not, it adds up. So don't just automatically believe I'm alright with dividing the check evenly. At least make note (like my friend Patrick always does when he's around) that not everybody enjoyed food and beverages equally as much. That's the minimum that can (and should) be done. If so, I'd shake my head and say, "That's okay. No biggie." It's the automatic assumption that picks my nerve.

Of course, today I was thinking what I should have said in reply to the "don't go out to eat" comment. "How about this, why not next time I'll just put my items on a separate bill?" I could say. Sure, I'd get the looks. But those close to me should know by now how I feel - thus it shouldn't come as a surprise.

It's not that I'm cheap. I'm frugal. Growing up in Kansas, we shared sodas when dining out, and my mom noted every penny spent daily in a journal. So for me, no matter how well I'm doing financially, I'll always be a economical diner. I'm willing to pay for what I eat and drink, just not everybody else's gluttonous behavior.

PTT Travels to: The Wit Rooftop Loung

Chicago is an amazing city. And to take advantage of the skyline, many bars, restaurants and hotels are opening sky roofs. Last night, we visited one of the more popular destinations - the roof top at the Wit Hotel. In short, I wasn't that impressed.

Sure, the view is stupendous. But if there's not a line to enter the hotel, I shouldn't have to move myself from one roped off area to the next just to appease the bouncers. In addition, if I order a drink that costs $14, I shouldn't get attitude from the cocktail waitress when I also ask for a glass of water. Finally, to all you gents dressed in gold chains and bad shirts untucked, and girls sporting Snooki dresses, you shouldn't have to try so hard to be cool. It comes off as desperate.

So, will the Pink Trash Traveler be returning to the Wit anytime soon? No. I would, however, like to explore other rooftop pit stops (at the Trump Hotel for example). The city is too beautiful during the summer months to stay cooped up in Andersonville every Friday and Saturday night.

More Big Brother Brendon Eye Candy

Lesson Learned

Next year, when we grow tomato plants in our backyard, we'll be sure to snip them back a bit. As of today, July 15th, these plants are almost 8 feet tall! I've staked them with tomato wires, bamboo, and now a broom handle. We're thinking the crazy growth pattern is a result of a conditioning the soil with a natural fertilizer - chicken poop. Whatever those chickens ate, it sure does the trick!

Why U Should Watch Big Brother

His name is Brendon. And last night on Big Brother, he almost got booted. But because he won the Power of Veto, he eliminated himself from the chopping block. Good thing too. He's too hot to let go the first week. Keep him around until the end I say. This way, we'll have many shirtless scenes of him wacking pinatas filled with rotten mayo. Who cares as long as he's half naked!

Dual Emotions

When shopping today at the Jewel, I was overcome with both sadness and happiness. I passed two old queens as they discussed tortilla chips. I thought to myself, "That's Chris and I someday." So I was happy to think I'll have Chris by my side in 20 years. On the flip side, it made me sad to think I'll be that old down the road - turning NO heads in the process. Yes, it's better than the alternative, but I'll quickly admit it's nice to pull attention once in a while.

Thanks Ricky?

Maybe Ricky Martin's decision to out himself had something to do with Argentina becoming the first Latin America country to LEGALIZE gay marriage. In any case, it's just one more example of how the US lags behind acceptance when we should be leading the initiative.

The Dangers of Quoting from the Bible

In her radio show, Dr Laura Schlesinger said that, as an observant Orthodox Jew, homosexuality is an abomination according to Leviticus 18:22, and cannot be condoned under any circumstance. The following response is an open letter to Dr. Laura, penned by a US resident, which was posted on the Internet. It's funny, as well as informative:


Dear Dr. Laura:

Thank you for doing so much to educate people regarding God's Law. I have learned a great deal from your show, and try to share that knowledge with as many people as I can. When someone tries to defend the homosexual lifestyle, for example, I simply remind them that Leviticus 18:22 clearly states it to be an abomination ... End of debate.


I do need some advice from you, however, regarding some other elements of God's Laws and how to follow them.


1. Leviticus 25:44 states that I may possess slaves, both male and female, provided they are purchased from neighboring nations. A friend of mine claims that this applies to Mexicans, but not Canadians. Can you clarify? Why can't I own Canadians?

2. I would like to sell my daughter into slavery, as sanctioned in Exodus 21:7. In this day and age, what do you think would be a fair price for her?

3. I know that I am allowed no contact with a woman while she is in her period of Menstrual uncleanliness - Lev.15: 19-24. The problem is how do I tell? I have tried asking, but most women take offense.

4. When I burn a bull on the altar as a sacrifice, I know it creates a pleasing odor for the Lord - Lev.1:9. The problem is my neighbors. They claim the odor is not pleasing to them. Should I smite them?

5. I have a neighbor who insists on working on the Sabbath. Exodus 35:2 clearly states he should be put to death. Am I morally obligated to kill him myself, or should I ask the police to do it?

6. A friend of mine feels that even though eating shellfish is an abomination, Lev. 11:10, it is a lesser abomination than homosexuality. I don't agree. Can you settle this? Are there 'degrees' of abomination?

7. Lev. 21:20 states that I may not approach the altar of God if I have a defect in my sight. I have to admit that I wear reading glasses. Does my vision have to be 20/20, or is there some wiggle-room here?

8. Most of my male friends get their hair trimmed, including the hair around their temples, even though this is expressly forbidden by Lev. 19:27. How should they die?

9. I know from Lev. 11:6-8 that touching the skin of a dead pig makes me unclean, but may I still play football if I wear gloves?

10. My uncle has a farm. He violates Lev.19:19 by planting two different crops in the same field, as does his wife by wearing garments made of two different kinds of thread (cotton/polyester blend). He also tends to curse and blaspheme a lot. Is it really necessary that we go to all the trouble of getting the whole town together to stone them? Lev.24:10-16. Couldn't we just burn them to death at a private family affair, like we do with people who sleep with their in-laws? (Lev. 20:14)

I know you have studied these things extensively and thus enjoy considerable expertise in such matters, so I'm confident you can help.

Thank you again for reminding us that God's word is eternal and unchanging.

Your adoring fan,

James M. Kauffman, Ed.D. Professor Emeritus, Dept. Of Curriculum, Instruction, and Special Education University of Virginia

(It would be a damn shame if we couldn't own a Canadian :)

Too Bad

Chelsea Handler has featured Dave Salmoni on her show, Chelsea Lately, numerous times. Now that it's rumored that the two of them are dating, I guess it all makes sense. Sadly, though, I'd prefer him to play for our team. Oh well.

New Dave Fave

PTT Summer Tip

In the heat of summer, there's something very refreshing about sipping an ice cold (and I mean ice cold) soda - one with a bit of frozen pop just inside the lid. So, about 30 minutes prior to your retrieval of your Diet Dr. Pepper, or better yet, Diet A&W Root Beer, place the 16 oz. plastic bottle or 12 oz. can inside the freezer (less time for the can of course). Soon you'll have a refreshing beverage with just a bit of ice to chill you out in the heat of summer.

Let me say this: sometimes it takes a few spins for a track to light my fire. In the case of this week's selection, the light disco number by a former American Idol reaps the rewards of being released during the summertime. It's the kind of airy dance music that's perfect poolside. So, ENJOY! You're welcome Patrick.

Oktoberfest Goes Smoke Free!

Finally! It appears Munich's Oktoberfest will, after years of puffing, be SMOKE FREE! If only they would have had the ban stick when we lived there from 2007-2009. The new law would have saved me from losing two months off my life expectancy. Possibly three. Even four perhaps.

New & Noteworthy: Yolanda Be Cool

If you're looking for a summer song unlike anything else you've heard before, check out Yolanda Be Cool and DCup's We Speak No Americano. It continues a British trend of taking old jazz tracks and turning them into club hits. Odd yes. Intriguing definitely.

Dave's Fave

This morning, I tried Tide's Febreze Sport laundry detergent for the first time. Now that I'm wearing my gym clothes washed with the special soap that helps to eliminate sweaty smells, I can honestly say it's quite refreshing. It's like a breath of fresh aire!

I just asked Chris to unload the dishwasher before he leaves for Kansas. I hate to empty the machine. Instead, I'll wash plates and cups before having to open the door to remove the clean items. Which, I noted, makes no sense as unloading takes less time than washing. I suppose it's just one of my quirks - of many I assure you. I'm just sayin'.

Lesson Learned

Today I learned something you SHOULDN'T do: wear white to the gym when spray tanning. After my 20 minute interval cardio session, followed by a leg workout, my shirt was soaked. But it wasn't until it started drying that the leftover spray tanning started to show - and it showed bad! It looked as though I splashed coffee on myself. So instead of staying around to socialize, I snuck downstairs to shower. Next time, I'll be sure to wear black.

I Shocantelle U This is Frickin' Hysterical

She's Converted Me Again

Wow. Lady Gaga rocked the house on The Today Show this morning. The biggest Facebook fan collector didn't let the rain dampen her parade. Actually, she embraced it. Check out her last song (Teeth) from the 30 minute set below. I think I'm once again a fan.

It's Friday boys and girls! So in the spirit of the weekend, check out today's hot track. Right now, I'm all about the circuit tunes - full of energy, synthesizers and thumping beats. Not only do they enhance my gym workouts, they pimp my ride along Lake Shore Drive. So enjoy the SONG!

Way 2 Go Massachusetts

Attorney General Martha Coakley stated, after a Federal district court judge in Boston struck down a 1996 Federal law that defined a marriage as a union exclusively between a man and a woman, “It is unconstitutional for the federal government to discriminate, as it does because of Defense of Marriage's restrictive definition of marriage. It is also unconstitutional for the federal government to decide who is married and to create a system of first- and second-class marriages.”

Congrats Rusty

My man Rusty Joiner made his way into a Taco Bell commercial (he's the blonde in the middle). Good for him. Though, it's hard to believe he eats at Taco Bell too often. I suppose, just like us, he could on Fat Sally Sunday.

Genius!

OMG! What a commercial. The spot below (recorded off TV with someone's video camera) for Novelty Games in Chicago plays on local TV during Seinfeld at 6:00 p.m. It's a classic from, I'm guessing, the 80s. And the jingle seems pulled from Waiting for Guffman. "Novelty games! Come on out here!"

Hello Mr. Salvatore

I stumbled across a few promotional shots of Chris Salvatore - an openly out singer, songwriter and actor. From there, I dove deeper to learn more about him. In short, he looks great. I'm not sure about his acting chops. But I do know this: his song Dirty Love isn't too great. It's as though he's trying to hard to fit into a Lady Gaga pop world. Maybe next time Chris. In the meantime, keep us entertained with more photo shoots. If you'd like to listen to the track, push play below. I warned you though.

Blogging Live: Watching ABC's Downfall

I've never heard of the show. But because Downfall followed ABC's Wipeout, I'm giving it a shot. So far, 16 minutes in, I give the show a "fail." But the host catches my attention. Turns out it's Chris Jericho - former wrestler. I'd rather see him in his wrestling gear, but I'll take what I can get as he's quite handsome (and a bit funny too).

Oh Ricky You're So Fine

This cover of People magazine caught my eye while checking out at the self service aisle in Jewel. As a result, the line supervisor came by to let me know she thought Ricky was, "...one fine looking man." Apparently she knew exactly why I was giving Ricky the time of day.

Men of World Cup 2010

You don't hear much about the goalkeeper from Argentina, but Mariano Anjujar is tall, dark, and handsome. Well, I think he's tall as his FIFA profile lists him as 180 cm. Of course, I could easily convert the number. But I'll leave it to my imagination as that's always so much better.

Blogging Live: Drug Bust

I'm watching WGN News in Chicago. The station is reporting a huge heroine bust along with $5M in cash. My question is this: What happens to the drugs and money once they've been seized? Where do they go?

Wow

It's amazing to me that the lakeshore filled up by mid-morning with hopefuls trying to snag a spot for one of three fireworks displays this evening. One family camped out just south of the 57th Street Beach by 9 a.m., and made a day of it. "First we barbequed chicken, then swam, then came back and did it again," they said. That makes for a long day. I'm just sayin'.

A Wonderful 4th

Even though Chris is in Kansas City, and most of my friends are on vacation, I had a great 4th of July. The day started with a trip to the gym (of course). Two hours later, I returned home to "go to the movies" in our lower level home theater. I then cooked a burger on the grill, baked some fries and reduced some baked beans for dinner. Then around 8:30, Whinnie and I walked six blocks to the lake to watch the fireworks over Lake Michigan. Now, as I end the day, I'm watching Grease on ABC Family. I wasn't sure how the holiday would unfold, but I can now say it was quite wonderful.

4th of July Memories

I called my grandma in Kansas tonight to say, "Happy 4th of July" (my 90-year old grandpa was out mowing lawns of course). It is, after all, the holiday that reminds me most of my grandparents as we would celebrate in style every year.

We'd go to the city park in Lindsborg to watch the fireworks around 9 p.m. Then, we'd rush home to explode our catalog fireworks in our grandparents backyard. Saturn Missles. Bottle rockets. Shooting fountains. It was usually extremely hot, a times humid, and the mosquitos would be bothersome.

I still fondly recall running indoors to light my punks made of manure. Oh, that smell. Heaven.

Happy 4th of July!