January 2009


And so, to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and we are ready to lead once more.

–President Barack Obama
  Inaugural Address
  January 20, 2009

Read the full transcript of President Obama’s inaugural address at The New York Times.

Gary Chang should start a business that remakes small spaces into really functional spaces. His transformation of his own tiny apartment in Hong Kong is downright impressive (slideshow).

This week’s special inauguration issue of the Sunday Magazine is without an Ethicist column. Instead, Randy Cohen has a podcast-only feature where he explores the ethics of driving a private automobile in Manhattan (mp3).

Cohen discusses the same subject in this Streetfilm. It’s a little dusty (from those days when we thought we might actually get congestion pricing in New York City) but still very relevant.

If you don’t see the embedded video above, check it out on the Streetfilms site.

It looks like Old Devil Moon has closed its doors. I will need to find another location to satisfy my occasional biscuit and gravy cravings. All suggestions are welcome.

Update: There is a massive NYC biscuits and gravy thread going on over at Blondie and Brownie. A bunch of those restaurants just went on my wish list.

walkers squirrel crispsLately, squirrel is all the rage on the British food scene. Those craving the little, gray critters no longer need to trek to the gastopub (or grab the shotgun) since Walkers is introducing a Cajun Squirrel flavor.

Cajun Squirrel was submitted by chip fan Martyn Wright (pictured) as part of Walkers’ Do us a Flavour competition. The unusual flavor is one of six finalists up for permanent shelf placement across the UK. The other flavors include Builder’s Breakfast (egg, bacon, sausage and bean for those not in the know), Crispy Duck & Hoisin and Chilli & Chocolate.

These chip flavors make those available here in the US seem just a bit tired. Is it time for a similar contest here?

Photo: Dan Charity/The Sun

via Gawker

If you’re looking for some fashion ideas for your next bicycle excursion, check out Copenhagen Cycle Chic. It’s no surprise that in a city where over 30% of its residents cycle daily, those riders know how to look good while doing it.

via Manhattan User’s Guide

New Years cat by Matt Law

Photo by aboutmattlaw on flickr

In case this festive feline isn’t enough to kick off your New Year, here is a special New Year’s greeting (thanks for the link Steve!):

I hope your hangover is nonexistent, or at least not too painful this morning. Happy New Year!