Michael Vick's dogs given new lives

The current issue of Sports Illustrated has a story on what happened to Michael Vick's dogs. Incredibly, nearly all of them were able to be saved and are living happy, calm lives. Reading the article, I was amazed by the dogs' capacity to recover emotionally from their traumatic experiences at Vick's hands and very moved by the efforts people have gone to rescue them.

Dogs have so many gifts to offer and deserve to be treated with love and respect. They are truly remarkable creatures and besides being loving pets, they can help improve the lives of those around them in many ways. I could not help but think of my dog, Stella, while reading this article and how much happiness she has given me. It is wonderful to know Michael Vick's former victims are safe with new families and have a fresh start in life.

Interview: Philip Seymour Hoffman

I've been a fan of Philip Seymour Hoffman since seeing
Boogie Nights, and am always impressed by his work. This in-depth interview from the New York Times provides an insightful look into Hoffman's work process and his love of acting.

Another winner from Andy Samberg

Some purists may argue that the Digital Short doesn't belong on SNL because it's not live, but I don't care. It's reliably one of the funniest things, every week, and I love how Andy Samberg isn't afraid to be weird.

2008: The Year in Review

It's the time of year to look back and take stock of things, and I haven't read a retrospective funnier than this one by the Fug Girls.

I seriously think the Fug Girls and I would hit it off like gangbusters. Their myriad references to Sweet Valley High and Anne of Green Gables, their love of carbohydrates, their enthusiasm for Chuck Bass...we totally need to hang out.

Hugh Jackman to Host the Oscars

According to People Magazine, Hugh Jackman will host this year's Oscars. I hope this means we'll see him in a tuxedo and also his crazy Wolverine sideburns.

The choice surprised me initially, but after a little reflection I think Jackman could be a very fun host. He's handsome, he sings, he dances, he's comfortable in front of a live audience, and he's done work that appeals to male and female audiences.

Last weekend, I saw his new movie Australia with some friends and while it's definitely a very emotional, over-the-top film I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Hey, I'm a sap. And when Hugh Jackman saves a boat of children during the Japanese bombing of Darwin while wearing a skin-tight wet shirt, well, that works for me. Russell Crowe was originally cast as the Drover, and my friends and I all heartily agreed he would have been terrible. I don't want Russell Crowe to sweep me onto the back of his horse or stun a crowd by appearing in a white dinner jacket. Hugh Jackman, however, could do that any day.

Shit, it's the cops!

Last night, I rewatched
Superbad and thought about how Bill Hader has had insanely good luck with his movie choices so far. His parts have been smaller, but almost always hilarious. See: Tropic Thunder, Knocked Up, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, and of course, Superbad. They didn't really give him much to do in You, Me, and Dupree but maybe that's a good thing. I think he is one of the best guys on SNL right now, too.

Being a librarian, I can't help but research anything I'm interested in, so today I did a little research on Bill Hader. Last year, The New York Times published this interview where he discusses his love of sci-fi. He shares his long-time love of Star Wars here, and this is an interesting interview from the AV Club with Hader, Andy Samberg, Kristen Wiig, and Jason Sudeikis when they were all new to the cast of SNL.

Merry Christmas from Bailey the Unknown Reindeer

This is one dog who really loves snow! Stella goes into a whirlwind when it snows and I can't wait to see her enjoy it this winter.

Gossip Girl: Who Will Die?

Hey, Upper East Siders.
Gossip Girl returns tonight after a two-week hiatus with a rumored death happening in this new episode, titled "It's a Wonderful Lie." My money is on chilly business magnate Bart Bass going to the big board room in the sky. My reasons? He's an important enough character but not so important that his departure will leave a huge hole in the show or alienate fans. Two, his death would create interesting storyline opportunities, such as how will Chuck cope, what happens with Bass Enterprises, and will Lily and Rufus get together. Third, it's always the distant millionaire dad who kicks the bucket and leaves his screwed up kids behind. See also The OC and Ugly Betty. Oddly, Alan Dale played that part on both shows, and is currently doing much the same thing on Lost, except his character is still alive. Alan Dale and Robert John Burke (who plays Bart Bass) look a lot alike too. Eerie coincidence or typecasting?! You be the judge!