Issue 2.14--June 20, 2005

Babblog Poker
Poker Lesson #7: Playing With a Maniac
by Oliver Butterick

Dealing with a maniac at the table can be stressful, frustrating, and hazardous to your bankroll—unless you have a plan. Here are Oliver's tips for success against all varieties of maniacs. Read More.

Rant and Rave:
Las Vegas
by Oliver Butterick

Rant—International House of Pancakes, 3260 E. Tropicana
You’ll get everything that you’ve come to expect and love from any IHOP—a variety of breakfast foods, bottomless coffee, world-famous pancakes…and dumb waitresses. When our waitress took our order, asking if I wanted pancakes, hash browns, or an English Muffin with my omelet, I replied, “Well, when in Rome…” I was answered with a blank stare, a few seconds of awkwardness, and a “Huh?” C’mon, sweetheart! When I'm at Pink’s, I get a hot dog; Morton's, a steak…WTF do you think I’m going to get at the International House of PANCAKES??? I shouldn’t be so tough on her; she was probably just stressed out because she’s taking the test to get her GED next week.

Other Links
Read Scott Widney's open letter to Tom Cruise, from HollywoodMomentum.com.

What social scientists and economists can tell us about our cinematic preferences, courtesy of MIchael Agger at Slate.

See how mathematical analysis influenced the Indians' decision not to resign Jim Thome, from the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Get a look at these retro sewing patterns at Threadbared.com.

Had bad customer service lately, but not sure how to address it? Well, here's the mother of all complaint letters to lend some guidance.

Hong Kong: A View From Below and Above
by Martell

Whether looking across the harbor from the Kowloon Peninsula or standing at the base of the Big Buddha, few world cities can rival Hong Kong when it comes to awe-inspiring views. Here are some of the more remarkable sights from Martell's trip. Read More.

Sports
Baseball Observations at the 40% Mark
by Jeff Lewis

If you think baseball innovation was last seen in the 19th century, then this is the article for you. Plastic bats, Wusshammers, and the Nine-Man Rotation are just a few of Jeff's radical ideas on how to transform our national pastime into a 21st century sport. Read more.

Babblog Reprise
Cooking with Roots
by Kristin Franklin

For many chefs, the foods they grew up eating often influence their styles more than their formal training. Here Kristin explores her culinary heritage and shares one of her favorite childhood recipes. Read More.

The List:
The Top Eight Pieces of Reading Material That Are Sitting On My Nightstand Waiting To Be Read
by Martell