"El Lay" Lesson: Rainy Days in Los Angeles

This past week it has been raining cows and bulls. Unfortunately, for the people in Los Angeles, rain causes havoc. The freeways get flooded, the fire infested areas get mudslides and all those silly people who think it is summer time get their homes and vehicles drenched because they left their windows open. The motorists continue to drive at 85 miles per hour on the rain slicked highways and, before you know it, a traffic nightmare has begun because some idiots forgot that they can slip and slide while driving at excessive speed.











On the other side of the spectrum, you have those folks that melt in the rain. These are the same fools that are telling everyone that the Los Angeles area needs some rain to help with the drought, but when it rains these same fools start to complain about the rain. They say things such as: "Why does it have to rain on the day of my party?!!! WAAAAAAAAH!!" or "Stupid rain, my hair's messed up now!"











As usual, Angelenos want to have it both ways. They want rain, but they do not want to get wet (the rain will probably evaporate before it hits the ground in most cases anyway). What an oxymoron their attitude on rain is! People here in "El Lay" do not like the rain, nor do they like the "cold weather." How preposterous this is! One thing is certain, Angelenos can always bet that as soon as they wash their cars, they can be assured it will rain within two days.






Until the next lesson: Stay Down!

GameChat 101: Why Are There Consoles Again?

If you watch SpikeTV or ESPN, you might see a commercial about video games in between all the Viagra and natural male enhancement ads. Later, as you go through a department store you might pass by the video games section and see that there are multiple machines available for video games, as well as other “legal” activities. All of these machines look very different from one another but they have one thing in common: They play video games.
Skating and fighting games have always been major sales pushers and with the Ultimate Fighting Championship entering the sales fray I think it’s fair time to discuss why you, the consumer, should even think about buying any of these products. Don’t worry because we got you covered.






First, let’s talk about the most popular video game machine ever, the personal computer. I know what you’re thinking, “If they make videogames for computers, why are there machines created specifically for videogames?” Well, it turns out that to build up a PC to compete with today’s consoles it would cost at least $500. Yes, PC gaming is very expensive and unless you make big bucks, is reserved only for the elite gamers. I am not one. I can say though that old school PC games are the only games that a standard computer can support. Also, some games have spyware installed and that isn’t what anyone wants. Why use a PC for games then you say? If you have a standard computer play with the PC versions of last generations consoles games. There is a plethora of games to choose from all going for around $20, which is cheap in gamer land. However, if you have Windows Vista then the games might not work. If you have a MAC, good luck, most games only support Windows XP or Vista, but are guaranteed to work.
Final Word: PC games are to be played at the buyer’s risk.

GameChat 101: Gaming on Handhelds

Hey readers! Rodog is here to talk smack about handheld video game players. There are four handheld game machines out now and the Rodog will be breaking them down as follows:
First, let’s talk about the most popular handheld gaming device out now, The Cellular Phone, or the cell phone. Cell phones have always been good gaming devices and they keep getting better. Today’s cell phones (standard, not high end) can play games from the NES and the Sega Genesis. They even make controller shaped attachments for some of the cell phone models. Cell phones, if you already own one, are an excellent choice to play games on.
Now let’s talk about another popular gaming device, the IPOD. The IPOD has some games on it but the controls are hard to deal with. Don’t buy an iPOD to play games with because it’s really not worth it.










The mainstream gaming devices are next and we will be starting with the PSP. The PSP is not known for it’s games but is actually more well known for it’s piracy ability. I don’t know how it works, but I can assume that anything that can be pirated through the internet can be pirated to the PSP. Of course, it would all be virus free and completely illegal. You can also surf the internet wherever WI-FI is available. The PSP is not good for first person, “through the eyes of the character” gaming because it lacks the essential, but missing right analog stick. Other games work well like fighting games or skating games, but, as I mentioned before, the PSP is known for it’s piracy, not great games.
Last but not least is the Nintendo DS, a hand-held that is known for it’s great games. The system has two screens, a regular top screen and a touch bottom screen. The DS supports wireless multi-player mode for up to four players. It does not have the internet but you can purchase optional internet online for $30. Some games have free online play, and yes, they’re all good! The DS is $130 and worth it.
That ends my coverage on handheld gaming devices. Next week I’ll cover the Big Three: Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony’s game consoles. It will be an article breaking the ice on many of the differences found amongst the Big Three.

"El Lay" Lesson: Tips on Personal Safety

In view of the contemporary social and economic conditions, the following prescribed tips from OG DUDE 13 may prevent you from becoming a victim. "El Lay" is a big megalopolis and your safety should always be on the alert. You have to be fight ready at all times. You will enhance your outdoor activities with the following instructions:

When walking be aware of the following:

1) Know your surroundings and environment at all times. Be extra vigilant at night.
2) Walk in well lighted areas.
3) Avoid walking or taking shortcuts through alleys.
4) Stay away from remote and secluded areas and stay away from bushes.
5) Develop a buddy system of walking with someone or with a group, especially at night.
6) If you are carrying a purse, hold it close to your body. Do not let it dangle.
7) Do not accept rides with strangers.
8) If a driver stops to ask you for directions, avoid getting too close to the car.
9) Change directions and vary your pace if you think you are being followed, go to a well lighted area or building when this occurs.
10) If you are being followed by someone in an automobile, get the license plate number and report it to the local law enforcement agency.






When driving be aware of the following:

1) Always lock your doors when driving and after parking.
2) Keep windows rolled up while driving.
3) When possible, always keep your gas tank filled.
4) Park in well lighted areas.
5) Be prepared with your keys in your hand when you return to your car.
6) Do not fumble for your keys while in your purse or pockets.
7) When you return to your car, make sure no one is hiding in your car.


















8) Always lock your valuables and purse in the trunk of your car.
9) If you are being followed, do not drive home or attempt to leave your car. Drive to the nearest police station or open business for assistance.
10) Do not leave your keys in the car.
11) Separate your house keys from the car keys when you park at a valet service.
12) If you have mechanical problems with your car remain inside your locked car until help arrives.


















13) If you are in trouble, honk your horn in order to get help.
14) NEVER pick up hitch hikers.















Also:

Remember to stay calm and don't get embarrassed/nervous if you have to call 911. If you have to make a police report, DON'T delay. This is your safety here that we are talking about.

Until the next lesson, Stay Down!

"El Lay" Lesson - Do your Freaking Job!

In this day of age when everybody is getting laid off, you need to have a game plan in order to keep your job.










One way to get out the boss's pink slip notice list is to avoid annoying him.













Right now, your favorite blog spotter OG DUDE 13, will provide you with some good tips on how to stay off your boss's bad side.


















Tip #1: After asking your boss what his priorities are, feedback your understanding of them. Doing anything less is asking for a grave misunderstanding and an annoyed boss. Thinking like a supervisor and anticipating his/her next move not only helps your department run smoother it will get you noticed for a good deed. any positive comments are always good.
















Tip #2: It is always good to know your boss's behavior profile. You should find out on day 1 of work if your boss likes you to get right to the point or if he wants details. Knowing the answer will help keep the communication open and will keep you on the same page as the boss.













Tip #3: Studying your boss and being observant on what his needs and wants are. If you can become a resource that adds strength to his office, you will never be an annoying pest.










Tip #4: If the other workers are coming to you for clarification, you are a definite asset to the boss.


If you are able to keep your job, do not thank me, but thank yourself for paying attention.

Until the next lesson, "Stay Down."