I don't do a lot of personal writing here anymore, but in this case, I'm making an exception with a tribute to my sister, who recently died from cancer.Pam was a quintessential Berkeley hippie. A free spirit, child of the 60s, early commune resident, fanatical about alternative medicine, and as far left as you could go - a fervent believer in every government conspiracy. … [Read more...] about If I Should Fall Behind – A Memorial
Association of Food Journalists Updates Critic Guidelines
The Association of Food Journalists is an educational organization that "promotes high ethical standards in food writing, editing, and restaurant criticism". Its membership roster reads like a who's who of food writers from newspapers, magazines, and even bloggers from around the world. Until recently, their guidelines, which hadn't been updated in many years, had seemed out … [Read more...] about Association of Food Journalists Updates Critic Guidelines
Paula Deen Canned by Food Network After Racial Slur Uproar
Paula Deen, queen of Southern Cooking has been dropped by the Food Network after a bizarre series of events, in which she admitted using racial epithets, using slurs against gays, and that she condoned pornography and racist jokes in the workplace. According to the NY Times, She was scheduled to appear on the "Today" show to defend her actions, but canceled at the last minute, … [Read more...] about Paula Deen Canned by Food Network After Racial Slur Uproar
Washington Post Critic Delivers Deliciously Nasty Review
The Washington Post Critic Tom Sietsema posted a stinging review of an Arlington Restaurant this week. Some choice comments: La Tagliatella in Arlington makes a strong case for hazard pay for restaurant critics. The Italian concept, an unfortunate import from Europe that plays up 400 combinations of pasta and sauce, is so distasteful on so many different levels, I was tempted … [Read more...] about Washington Post Critic Delivers Deliciously Nasty Review
Ladies – No Heels, No Service
A local bar/restaurant is on the defensive this week after posting a new dress code that mandated "must have heels" for female patrons. According to Huffington Post, ProAbition, located about an hour outside Los Angeles in Riverside, California, posted a flyer for its Twenties-themed opening with the following dress code:No tennis shoes. No baggy attire. No sports hats. No … [Read more...] about Ladies – No Heels, No Service