SI Vault -- A few weeks ago, Sports Illustrated opened its archives online. The results, which can be found here, are stunning. Users can dive into 54 years of issues, which means 150,000 stories, 2,800 covers and a half-million photos. Yesterday, the home page featured a link to the issue from May 10, 1971, which happened to feature Oscar Roberston and the Bucks, who had just won the NBA Championship. When you "open" that issue, you can click page by page through it, looking at the stories and the advertisements. If you want to research a player, relive a dramatic pennant race or a classic story like the great April Fools' take on Sidd Finch, it's just a click away. It's a great way to solve trivia questions or waste time at work. --Drew Olson
Pistachios -- I'm going simple in my rec this week. One word: pistachios. Full of fiber, antioxidants and fun, these healthy nuts make a great and healthy snack. Plus, it is pretty cool to scoop them into your bag from that big bin at Metro Market. Need another reason to add the tasty pistachio to your daily routine? Get this -- an ounce of pistachios scores higher on the USDA's antioxidant scorecard than a cup of green tea! --Jeff Sherman
Whoppers -- I'm not talking about the popular Burger King sandwich, which is completely unhealthy and sinfully delicious. I'm talking about the equally unhealthy chocolate malted milk balls. I was ordered to bring some home so the ladies of the house could embark on a baking project, and it reminded me how good they are. I just might be inspired to swing by Kopp's, Bella's or Murf's for a malt one of these days, too. --D.O.
Soap from LuSa Organics -- I walked out of the last Art vs. Craft with five bars of Queen Bee soap, as well as three sticks of the lip balm. (The company changed its name to LuSa Organics on April 1). These all-natural products are handcrafted in Baraboo. Thus far, my favorite is the Electric Mocha kitchen soap, made with essential oils, fair trade organic coffee (Peace Coffee) and fair trade organic cocoa. Mostly, I just like the way it makes everything smell better, especially for someone who cooks with ridiculous amounts of garlic and onion. You'll find it at the next Art vs. Craft (Nov. 29), but if you don't want to wait that long, you can search and order it online here. --Julie Lawrence
"Good Eats" -- There are five televisions in my house and the moment I relinquish control of the remote they are tuned to The Disney Channel, Nickelodeon or The Food Network, which is home to "Good Eats." Alton Brown is the quirky host of the program and, though he can be a bit over the top at times, I find him entertaining and informative. I always learn something from his monologues about food, ingredients and cooking techniques. --D.O.
"The Story of Stuff" (www.storyofstuff.com) -- Two million viewers (and counting) watched this 20-minute, online video that details -- in language simple enough for an older child -- the current cycle of consumerism in our capitalistic society. Narrated by Annie Leonard, who studied international sustainability and environmental health issues for 20 years, the piece shows how raw materials become products -- and all the nasty, toxic processes in between. For many "green" folks, this will serve as a fast-paced overview of what they already know, but because it is reaching such large numbers of people all over the world, it is undoubtedly informing many folks about critical -- and controversial -- issues for the first time. Ah, the power of the Internet. --Molly Snyder Edler
"Matthew Ryan vs. the Silver State" -- Matthew Ryan is often compared to Bruce Springsteen and Tom Waits. When you hear this fine new CD, you will know why. Ryan is a talented storyteller who uses a raspy, haunting and unforgettable voice to deliver dusty, honest observations of life, love and loss. Though the Springsteen and Waits comparisons may open some eyes (and ears), Ryan also conjures thoughts of Ryan Adams, Bright Eyes, Paul Westerberg and "Joshua Tree"-era U2. It's only April, but there is a good chance you will see this CD on some year-end "best of" lists. --D.O.
WaterThins Parmesan & Garlic Cheese Twists -- Imported from Australia, these breadstick type snacks are fantastic on their own, but really good with hummus, dips and on salads or soup. The twists are layered with a specialty dough and seasoned with all natural herbs and spices before baking. You'll find them at upscale grocery stores and places like World Market. They also make Classic Cheddar and Poppy and Cracked Pepper varieties. You might want to buy two boxes. They go quickly. --D.O.
