POTD: Ta Prohm

From 2015 03 19 Angkor Wat

Today's photo-of-the-day is from Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Technically, it's from Ta Prohm, a 12th century temple about a mile from Angkor Wat, the main temple in the area. What's unusual about Ta Prohm is that it hasn't been restored (much), meaning that the jungle still encroaches and tree roots still climb over the temple buildings. Here I am obliged to say that Ta Prohm was used as a location for the filming of the 2001 action movie Tomb Raider with Angelina Jolie as Lara Croft. Good times -- the temple, not the movie.

Q&A: Take or Pay

Question: Richardson has to pay for a minimum amount of water whether it's used or not. Where is the incentive to conserve? Isn't this like the stupidest thing you ever heard of?

Q&A: Water, Water Everywhere

Question: With all the reservoirs full, why is Richardson still in Stage 2 (or Stage 3 or whatever) water conservation plan?

Why impose water restrictions at all when you have to flush water towers to keep the water from going stale?

POTD: Apsara

From 2015 03 18 Siem Reap

Today's photo-of-the-day is from Siem Reap, Cambodia. An apsara is "a female spirit of the clouds and waters in Hindu and Buddhist mythology." "Apsaras are beautiful, supernatural female beings. They are youthful and elegant, and superb in the art of dancing."

Fifi Howls from Happiness (2013)

IMDB

Fifi Howls from Happiness (2013): Interview with aging Iranian artist Bahman Mohassess. Fascinating character and art, but not movie. C-

POTD: Fish Can Do Massage

From 2015 03 18 Siem Reap

Today's photo-of-the-day is from Siem Reap, Cambodia. After a long, hot day walking and climbing around Angkor Wat, what can be more refreshing than a cold beer ($1) and a tickly, nibbling, fish foot massage (also $1)?

Everything's a dollar in Siem Reap. And I mean actual US greenbacks, not the equivalent in the currency of Cambodia, the riel, which you only see if your purchase requires change less than a dollar.

The Rent is Too Damn High

"All-time Record High Rents." That's the headline in Dallas Business Journal. "The hot apartment market in North Texas is bringing all-time high rent as apartment occupancy continues to remain tight." Former Texas governor and GOP Presidential candidate Rick Perry understands what's going on, at least elsewhere.

In blue-state coastal cities, you have these strict zoning laws, environmental regulations that have prevented buildings from expanding the housing supply. And that may be great for the venture capitalist who wants to keep a nice view of San Francisco Bay. But it’s not so great for the single mother working two jobs in order to pay rent and still put food on the table for her kids.

Source: Rick Perry.

What's the solution?