Homicide by David Simon: A Cajun Tomato Chat

Proof Simon is a genius!

Ed. Note: My friend and fellow journalist, Nate Monroe, decided to experiment tonight while talking about a mutual interest of ours — David Simon’s seminal journalism work, Homicide: A Year On the Killing Streets. We did a gmail chat much in the same manner we would have done a podcast. Here is a transcript of our chat. Enjoy!
PS: Nate is denoted in the conversation as “me.” I am “raybaybay3.”

Cajun Tomato Relegated to No Healthcare League

This blog is dedicated to Janae, the latest victim of the sore throat epidemic sweeping through Portland.

PORTLAND, Ore. — For the first 25 years of my life, I was a golden child of the American healthcare system.

That’s not to say I had some rare medical condition that, when studied, produced a wealth of knowledge. Not at all. All I did, in this respect, was reassure doctors that a poor diet and a lack of sleep can wreak havoc on a young man’s body.

What I mean by “golden child of the American healthcare system” is I had healthcare. Yes, that’s all it takes in America. Bad ass healthcare. This might be a good time to thank the state of Louisiana, the New York Times Co., my parents and anyone else who helped me achieve that most worthwhile of pursuits, affordable healthcare. Thanks guys!

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Cajun Tomato Travels: This Burger Won’t Change Your Life

HENDERSON, Nev. — I have a tendency to be disappointed. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not a glum person. I’m laid back for the most part. But I tend to set my expectations too high at times. And when reality diverges widely from expectations … well, that’s when disappointment happens.

What is this all leading to? Good question. I made my first ever trip to In-N-Out Burger tonight in Las Vegas.

What? You thought I was going to riff on Sin City at the top of this screed? Ha. Nope. This ain’t journalism. I can bury the lede. But not too deep. I wouldn’t want to, uh, disappoint you, fair reader.

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