Irving Kershner, RIP

Kershner, who died this week, is loved by the StarDorks for his contributions (as director) to "The Empire Strikes Back," easily the best of the overrated series. It was easily the highight of his career as he made few films that were anything more than crappy or forgettable. Sean Connery, who worked with him on "A Fine Madness," in 1965 brought him in for "Never Say Never," which I like (but don't love).
His second best film, which comes with a glowing recommendation from the "Devil Dog" James Ellroy is "Stakeout on Dope Street" from 1958. It's his first movie as a director and was made for a pittance.
But's it's an imaginative, tough little crime story that TCM showed once that I know of. Check for it on DVD. TCM might drag it back out now that Kershner had passed.

Hitchens

Big Chris and Tony Blair debate religion.

Horror film star dies

Ingrid Pitt, RIP. If you were a teen age boy and saw her in "Countess Dracula" or "The Vampire Lovers," you never forgot her ... that, or you are gay.

World War 2

Duma apologizes for Katyn Forest massacre. For years the Soviets blamed the Germans.

Just what should I be thankful for?

My Thanksgiving column.

Eco Baloney (or beef)

The myth of free range cattle. John Stossel says feed lots make more sense.

Robert Samuelson

Speedy pork. High speed rail just does not make sense. From Newsweek.

Virginia Postrel

TechnoGlamor trumps reason. Think high speed rail and giant wind turbines.

Rasslin'

Atlanta-based wrestler slain by gunman. Chris Long worked independent shows and for Lucha Libre on MTV 2.

The Biz

Murdock, Jobs go newspaperin'

Warren's World

Buffet wants taxes raised and lowered.

Indians signature win came 30 years ago against Dalton

My story from the Nov. 18 Summerville News.

Election nights have changed over the years

My column from Nov. 4.

Writers who stay with you

My column from Nov. 11.

Free music

Joe Ely sings of his disdain for Billy the Kid.

Hitchens

Big Chris interviewed in a fine piece. Via Drudge.

EnviroStuff

Bjorn Lomborg featured in new documentary. Al Gore won't be happy.

Spy vs. Spy

U.S. mole named by Russian newspaper. Turned in sleeper cell.

Chavez

It would be comical if not so telling. Government takes control of apartments. Via Drudge.

Music

Cracker Barrel has soul.

Chavez

Now he's getting serious! Venezuelan kleptocrat to snatch golf courses.

Movies

John Wayne's "Alamo" turns 50. One of my favorites as a kid. Great battle scenes. What a cast!

My Summerville News Column

Good times then are not forgotten My 30th high school reunion.