(no subject)

"[Abercrombie & Fitch] is one of those savvy employers who practice positive discrimination for a decidedly tiny American minority -- those who look better than you and me.

"Antonio Serrano, a former assistant Abercrombie store manager explained the policy in The New York Times: 'If someone came in with a pretty face, we were told to approach them and ask them if they wanted a job. They thought if we had the best-looking college kids working in our store, everyone will want to shop there.' Likewise Tom Lennox, Abercrombie's communications director, acknowledged that the company targets sales assistants who 'look great.'

"Now there's real affirmative action."

Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, criticizing A&F's policy of giving strong preference to physically attractive job candidates, and the sociological implications of beauty and generosity.

(no subject)

Friday night I saw Matrix Reloaded at the IMAX. It was worth watching on the huge screen -- it underscores the attention devoted to detail by the movie makers, and watching it again gave me a chance to revisit more deeply the Gnostic and esoteric themes visited in the movie.

( Matrix spoiler warning, for those who still might want them. )

Sunday Dee and I went to the company picnic, where I was amazed when Dee said she wanted to attempt to climb the "rock climbing" setup the company had brought to the picnic for entertainment. With the assistance of the attendant and myself Dee was able to climb halfway up the rock wall. Quite impressive for someone who needs a wheelchair or a pair of crutches to get around.

Afterwards we saw Pirates of the Caribbean, which was entertaining enough. Sensitive types might complain that it glorifies violence, and they would have a point, but it's not like troubled teens are going to aspire to be pirates on account of a silly movie like this one.