Tumblr-ing through L.A.

I have a Tumblr account, though I'm not sure why. I never update it. I hardly ever think about it. But two years ago, I uploaded a few photos revolving around a loose theme: favorite writers, and where they ate, slept or wrote. After my recent trip to L.A., I've added a few more. They're right here, in case you want to take a look. But seriously, don't expect much.

(Above: Charles Bukowski's favorite liquor emporium, the Pink Elephant. My friend Brett and I toasted Hank's memory with a couple of cold Millers, purchased here.)

Been a Hell of Week. I'll Meet You At Smith's

This is from James T. Murray and Karla L. Murray's Store Front: The Disappearing Face of New York (Gingko Press), featured in this Sunday's New York Times Book Review. This is how all bars should look. Sometimes, I think I was born 50 years too late.

The Coast Guard Cocktail

The medicine man behind Polite Dissent talks a bit about the so-called "Coast Guard Cocktail," as seen in Punisher: Force of Nature. This post made my day.

Drink Beer with Swierczy!

Tonight! I'll be at the Grey Lodge Pub, only the best damn bar in Northeast Philly, for Authors A'Plenty 5 along with forensic thriller writer D.H. Dublin (Jonathan McGoran to his pals) and comic book artist Rob Reilly. Beer, books and good conversation will be on hand. Especially after I've had a few beers.

Also on hand: the Bride, making a rare public appearance. (For those of you who think she does not exist, now's your chance to meet the beautiful redhead I hired to play the part of... er, I mean, your chance to meet my wife.) And Dave White, who says he just loves "the illadelph."

And in the Department of Strange Coincidences: At the same time the Grey Lodge is rockin' "Authors A'Plenty," they'll also be hosting the victory party of Al Taubenberger, the Republican candidate for mayor. What makes this is a coincidence is that he's the cover boy in the latest City Paper. Hope he liked the piece (which is the cover debut of new CP staff writer Tom Namako). If not, well, that's why God invented beer.

Funnybooks 4 Free

Fanboy geeks of the world unite! It's Brian Hickey's favorite holiday: Free Comic Book Day. This means you can stop into your friendly neighborhood comic shop and pick up a bunch of free comics from publishers both great and small.

Even better, Free Comic Book Day happens to coincide with Cinco de Mayo, which means you can peruse your stack of free comics while under the influence of tequila.