I know its been some time. I’m getting back on track and will be back at my old pace shortly. So I have seen the last Black. White. episode. The show is really doing well, and is more than I had hoped for. As we learn more about each family, the experiences they have or refuse to acknowledge becomes more telling. Carmen is a sore point for me. I find it hard to understand some of her views and comments. I mean calling anyone a “beautiful black creature” is as backhanded a compliment as saying Mr. Colin Powell speaks well. Creatures are not human, and in every connotation I think of off the top of my head not beautiful. I do think that some awareness is hitting her at times though. In walking through the park, or in being shown the black history she understood that there is more to the culture than what she has learned in her life. To understand that by being a Black African American there are places you can’t go, or will be unwelcome in. It’s a sad truth and when she and her husband were in the country bar she got an inkling of what I and many others have felt often and throughout our lives. And of course that affects our decision and actions.
Bruno though seems to be fighting against everything that is happening. He seems to convey the thought that if I don’t accept it it doesn’t exist. That’s a nice idea, but it won’t work. I’m not afraid of firearms, but it can still kill me. I don’t believe I am racist, but that doesn’t stop others from being so. It is stupidity to ignore or minimize the actions of others because you don’t like them. It makes me wonder what Bruno has done to others, Black African Americans, Hispanics or others and not thinking it was anything of significance because he doesn’t acknowledge it as offensive or wrong.
I love when they got asked for the credit card. And when they saw what kind of looks and reactions happen to interracial couples. (Yes, I have been in them and no I will not discuss it more than that, at least for now)
But what is up with the son (I forget his name now) That boy seems so lost I don’t understand it. He is stereotypical (of his generation) in his disregard for money, as shown with his purchase of the watch and waste of money. But his denial of the existence of racism in this day is ridiculous. Or he has been so sheltered as I cannot imagine. Maybe he has never had a cop try to pull a gun on him because of the cop harassing him and him standing up for his rights (as happened to me at 17 in the Subway in the city). Maybe he has never had cops pull over the car he was in and have a cop hold a gun to his head while his hands were on the dash board because the driver of the car (that did nothing illegal or wrong) was Korean, the passenger was Black African American/ Puerto Rican, and 2 guys in the back seats were white. (I was 24 and the reason we were pulled of was so the cops could ask the white guys if they were ok, if it was there car and then why we were all together - got to love L.A., Hollywood in particular). But I don’t doubt he has had some experience. I don’t know of ANYONE who has not. Of any age over 5. And why is it so prevalent that the young black kids of today have no desire or plan for their future and no education. Is image really that important? Is limiting your option worth “street cred”? And the difference is so dramatic when you compare the White daughter (forgot her name too) to the son. He seems to be far more articulate and has plans for her future already. She values her money and is truly the one person in the entire show trying to embrace the opportunity this experience is providing.
Well I am tired and things are still up in the air personally. But I’m getting back. Expect more from me soon, and thanks for you continued support.
This is what I think, what do you think.
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Jerry's award, rap's music, and vendettas
So I’m trying to get to a more normal life. Let me discuss some of the things I’ve missed. One of the first things is about Mr. Jerry Lewis. This is a comedic genius, and many of the younger readers have probably never seen anything he has done. His early career with Mr. Dean Martin is incredible, and his later work alone no less so. It’s amazing to watch this man do his schitk and few will not laugh, I think. I do know France loves him and gets it. The last movie he did they shut everything down so they could all go and see it. That is success, and due to that I applaud their presentation of the honorarium to him.
And another round of applause for the movie V for Vendetta. I have been waiting for this movie since I first saw the previews. Timely and yet full of questions , it is a thought provoking film. Of course it is based on a comic book (nerd collectors of the 80's rejoice, our time has come). And like several other transformations recently it has been done well. It’s a great thing when everyone gets the book, unlike some films (like the Hulk flop). I hope that this only is a preview of a year of better films, but as I have said before I doubt it. Hopefully this will lead to more creative visions. Even better would be the chance that this film awakens most Americans from their apathy. Especially Black African Americans, because the culture is not pointing in a productive direction of inclusion and change as I see it.
Speaking of Black African American culture, I find it interesting that the producers of the music are so concerned on their image. Even moreso I cannot understand why hip-hop fans find it such an affront that in embracing their success (the producers) crosses over to other genres. It should be a sign of how complete the transformation has come, from on the streets of the Bronx to international mainstream. I may not like the lyrics of virtually every rap song made since 1992 but the music is still strong. The innovation and combination that some use are unique and visionary. It reflects the fact that no style of music exits separate of any other. It symbolizes, at its best, that there is a harmony that can be found in all our lives. Music is just a metaphor for life, when done well. How can anyone be so superficial as to disregard it because of an artificial label no longer fits. The greatness of Mr. Ray Charles as an example shows that ability should never be bound by a label. Don’t hip-hop fans get that? And if they tried to expand themselves to the other experiences out there, rather than hid from it, who knows where that could lead to.
I’m drained emotionally and physically. Give me time, There is a lot bottled up I’m planning to let loose. Perhaps you may want to read some of my poems to see where some of my energy is going. You may like it.
This is what I think, what do you think
And another round of applause for the movie V for Vendetta. I have been waiting for this movie since I first saw the previews. Timely and yet full of questions , it is a thought provoking film. Of course it is based on a comic book (nerd collectors of the 80's rejoice, our time has come). And like several other transformations recently it has been done well. It’s a great thing when everyone gets the book, unlike some films (like the Hulk flop). I hope that this only is a preview of a year of better films, but as I have said before I doubt it. Hopefully this will lead to more creative visions. Even better would be the chance that this film awakens most Americans from their apathy. Especially Black African Americans, because the culture is not pointing in a productive direction of inclusion and change as I see it.
Speaking of Black African American culture, I find it interesting that the producers of the music are so concerned on their image. Even moreso I cannot understand why hip-hop fans find it such an affront that in embracing their success (the producers) crosses over to other genres. It should be a sign of how complete the transformation has come, from on the streets of the Bronx to international mainstream. I may not like the lyrics of virtually every rap song made since 1992 but the music is still strong. The innovation and combination that some use are unique and visionary. It reflects the fact that no style of music exits separate of any other. It symbolizes, at its best, that there is a harmony that can be found in all our lives. Music is just a metaphor for life, when done well. How can anyone be so superficial as to disregard it because of an artificial label no longer fits. The greatness of Mr. Ray Charles as an example shows that ability should never be bound by a label. Don’t hip-hop fans get that? And if they tried to expand themselves to the other experiences out there, rather than hid from it, who knows where that could lead to.
I’m drained emotionally and physically. Give me time, There is a lot bottled up I’m planning to let loose. Perhaps you may want to read some of my poems to see where some of my energy is going. You may like it.
This is what I think, what do you think
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
GOOOOAAALLLL!!!!!
It’s that time again! Yes the time in which the world sits back and focuses on one event that outshines most any other. The World Cup. Now most Americans have no idea what football is. Not American football, I mean what we solely in the world, refer to as soccer. This is a true game of champions, a few select individuals who are the par excellence of their respective countries, gathering to find the number one team in the world. This is a true world challenge. This is sportsmanship. Yet there will only be a paltry 12 of the 64 games shown in the United States.
Can you believe this. We have people from every nation in the world here. Whether visiting, on business, descendants of pioneers or slaves, virtually not a single American has no ties to another part of the world. Given the craze these days to profess the xxx-American status of the heritage of everyone in the country you would think there would be more interest.(the xxx being African Hispanic, Chinese, Irish, Italian or whatever nationality - American) Regardless this is the height of competition, something this nation thrives on, yet few seem to ever care. Why is it that Americans need to dominate a sport before anyone here watches or follows it, I mean that en masse.
I for one love to watch the games and will do so again this year. I think Germany will win, with a chance for Brazil. Maybe the U.S. team makes it to the second round, but I won’t bet on it. And that isn’t anti-American. We just aren’t that good. Getting better but just not up there. And we won’t be till we really support this game. Which we should since EVERY country in the world plays and pays attention to this game. Literally. People have been killed over this game. Players have been killed over home goals. And everyone in that country could sympathize with the shooter. You don’t see that kind of passion in any game the USA dominates. So when the Cup is on, you’ll know where to find me, and who I am rooting for.
Speaking of home goals. Yet another suddenly 'brilliant' entertainer has decided that they need to share their ‘presence’ with the world on the big screen. I know I’ve complained that there were too few new ideas showing in movies these days, but can we please stop allowing rappers that have done nothing from getting movie roles. Or at least leading vehicles. I’ve mentioned my reasons why more than enough times. Do I think kayne west has the talent? No. Do I think this will be a waste of time? Yes. Will this movie drive in enough Black African Americans and hip hop fans to make a comfortable 300% profit? Sure (especially considering the cost of the whole movie might be 10 mil max, including the above and below the line costs plus advertising) since it will be cheap. But that just doesn’t make it good.
I am prejudging. I may be surprised. Of course I could also win the powerball. In my opinion the odds are in favor of me winning the powerball.
This is what I think, what do you think.
Oh, thank you all for sticking with me as I’ve been dealing with the fun life has thrown at me recently. I appreciate the support.
Can you believe this. We have people from every nation in the world here. Whether visiting, on business, descendants of pioneers or slaves, virtually not a single American has no ties to another part of the world. Given the craze these days to profess the xxx-American status of the heritage of everyone in the country you would think there would be more interest.(the xxx being African Hispanic, Chinese, Irish, Italian or whatever nationality - American) Regardless this is the height of competition, something this nation thrives on, yet few seem to ever care. Why is it that Americans need to dominate a sport before anyone here watches or follows it, I mean that en masse.
I for one love to watch the games and will do so again this year. I think Germany will win, with a chance for Brazil. Maybe the U.S. team makes it to the second round, but I won’t bet on it. And that isn’t anti-American. We just aren’t that good. Getting better but just not up there. And we won’t be till we really support this game. Which we should since EVERY country in the world plays and pays attention to this game. Literally. People have been killed over this game. Players have been killed over home goals. And everyone in that country could sympathize with the shooter. You don’t see that kind of passion in any game the USA dominates. So when the Cup is on, you’ll know where to find me, and who I am rooting for.
Speaking of home goals. Yet another suddenly 'brilliant' entertainer has decided that they need to share their ‘presence’ with the world on the big screen. I know I’ve complained that there were too few new ideas showing in movies these days, but can we please stop allowing rappers that have done nothing from getting movie roles. Or at least leading vehicles. I’ve mentioned my reasons why more than enough times. Do I think kayne west has the talent? No. Do I think this will be a waste of time? Yes. Will this movie drive in enough Black African Americans and hip hop fans to make a comfortable 300% profit? Sure (especially considering the cost of the whole movie might be 10 mil max, including the above and below the line costs plus advertising) since it will be cheap. But that just doesn’t make it good.
I am prejudging. I may be surprised. Of course I could also win the powerball. In my opinion the odds are in favor of me winning the powerball.
This is what I think, what do you think.
Oh, thank you all for sticking with me as I’ve been dealing with the fun life has thrown at me recently. I appreciate the support.
Saturday, March 11, 2006
Personal and Black White
I know I have been slow in posting, and I do wish to speak about the Black White program. I ask you all to bear with me and not forget about me as there is a major issue I am personally going thru that is taking my time and strength.
What I will say about the program is that it looks to be quite something. I am not surprised the fathers have such different views. The white father is missing things I think because he assumes that the intent is other than it is. But having never had to live these situtatins I'm not surprised. One example is his take on the n-word. His response is based on a many who has not been callled what has been defined as possibly the single most offensive word in the english langague. There just is no comparison.
I think the younger kids will get more from this though. They are less set in their ways and more open to what is going on. Still it will be interesting to see what happens. And I am amazed the black son is so 'who cares' about the program. Perhaps things are better than when I grew up, but they aren't good. The various riots and outrages that go on today prove that things are not well, once you go beyond the surface. Still I find his attitude interesting and confusing.
The white daughter seems to be the most interesting one so far. The most open to the experience and the most sensitive. That should make for unique experiences. The make up artists really did a good job with her. She was already pretty, but she looks real good in the make-up.
Actually I think the make-up jobs are all very good. And I comment the families for doing this. Its going to definitely have an impact on them, as they mentioned in the Oprah show they did.
I really want to get into this, but I just can't right now. Bear with me. Sometimes life can be cruel and difficult. And sometimes its a 500 lb gorrila hitting you in the balls with a steel girder.
What I will say about the program is that it looks to be quite something. I am not surprised the fathers have such different views. The white father is missing things I think because he assumes that the intent is other than it is. But having never had to live these situtatins I'm not surprised. One example is his take on the n-word. His response is based on a many who has not been callled what has been defined as possibly the single most offensive word in the english langague. There just is no comparison.
I think the younger kids will get more from this though. They are less set in their ways and more open to what is going on. Still it will be interesting to see what happens. And I am amazed the black son is so 'who cares' about the program. Perhaps things are better than when I grew up, but they aren't good. The various riots and outrages that go on today prove that things are not well, once you go beyond the surface. Still I find his attitude interesting and confusing.
The white daughter seems to be the most interesting one so far. The most open to the experience and the most sensitive. That should make for unique experiences. The make up artists really did a good job with her. She was already pretty, but she looks real good in the make-up.
Actually I think the make-up jobs are all very good. And I comment the families for doing this. Its going to definitely have an impact on them, as they mentioned in the Oprah show they did.
I really want to get into this, but I just can't right now. Bear with me. Sometimes life can be cruel and difficult. And sometimes its a 500 lb gorrila hitting you in the balls with a steel girder.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
From Oscars to Jail, via a pimp life
With The Oscar’s over and the winners named, take a moment to remember some of the worst films of last year. These films did not cause controversy, it was pretty universally accepted that they were horrible films. While Son of the Mask was humorless, I think the big loser was the Dukes of Hazzard. Of course it was just another in the long and growing line of remakes from writers that I would have to guess have lost their inspiration, or have never bothered to see more of the original shows than the TV Guide synopsis. Bewitched lives up to that concept as well I think. House of Wax needs nothing more said about it beyond the fact that Paris Hilton was in it.
Sadly, we cannot forget that today marks a loss in the film and media industry. Mr. Gordon Parks was not only a noted film maker, and photographer, but he was also a successful novelist as well. Without regard for the blaxploitation films that followed the success of Shaft, it has to be remembered that this film created a venue that had previously not existed. No matter what anyone may want to believe I feel, without Shaft there is no Mr. Spike Lee and Malcolm X movie. There could be no Boys in the ‘Hood, or even the current crop of rapper-wannabe-actor movies that bring in so much profit to the studios, even with less substance than is normal for the genre. There many be those who dispute this but it is in my opinion the line goes straight from Mr. Parks to today. To quote Mr. Parks, “Just remembering that no black had been given a chance to direct a motion picture in Hollywood since it was established kept me going.”
Speaking of Shaft, which one an Oscar in 1972 for the theme, and ‘urban’ music that has won an award, I must congratulate Three 6 Mafia. While I have a near total disdain for modern rap music as can be seen in many of my posts, I would be remiss to not applaud their win. It is quite an accomplishment especially since the competition was quite strong. The fact that the Oscar’s are noted for their tendency to be very conservative. An example would be the fact that Star Wars was snubbed for best picture, though most agreed that it was a break-thru in science fiction and film making. And the acting was above par (who wasn’t swept away by Darth Vader, or Han Solo. Chewbacca too.) engrossing you in a world so removed from reality as to be absurd yet moving enough to allow you to accept it all. [By the way, I always beleived Vader to be a black man, that voice just never fit any other image and it just grabbed me that a key figure of the movie was black.] But I digress. The fact that a rap song, titled "It’s Hard Out There For A Pimp" has won is a surprise equal to the performances of the actors in this movie (notably Mr. Terrence Howard).
And I will round off the music with a bigger surprise than the Oscar win. Why was Mr. Bobby Brown arrested for a 14 year old minor traffic violation? I’m really confused on this. Mr. Brown is watching his daughter in a competition and an officer ‘happens’ to do a ‘common’ warrant check. And a 14 year old charge that no one remembered, most likely, causes him to be brought in. This is such a minor event the bond was $40. Now why did the officer do this? Is it because Mr. Bobby Brown is an entertainer with a past. Did the fact that he is a Black African American with good clothes and a nice car, presumably though I don’t know he had these with him, piss off the officer. Or was this a plan they were waiting to spring for some unknown gain. It sounds like racial profiling on a celebrity level. Well until more is said about this, if ever, I can just say it leaves a bad taste in my mouth.
This is what I think, what do you think.
Sadly, we cannot forget that today marks a loss in the film and media industry. Mr. Gordon Parks was not only a noted film maker, and photographer, but he was also a successful novelist as well. Without regard for the blaxploitation films that followed the success of Shaft, it has to be remembered that this film created a venue that had previously not existed. No matter what anyone may want to believe I feel, without Shaft there is no Mr. Spike Lee and Malcolm X movie. There could be no Boys in the ‘Hood, or even the current crop of rapper-wannabe-actor movies that bring in so much profit to the studios, even with less substance than is normal for the genre. There many be those who dispute this but it is in my opinion the line goes straight from Mr. Parks to today. To quote Mr. Parks, “Just remembering that no black had been given a chance to direct a motion picture in Hollywood since it was established kept me going.”
Speaking of Shaft, which one an Oscar in 1972 for the theme, and ‘urban’ music that has won an award, I must congratulate Three 6 Mafia. While I have a near total disdain for modern rap music as can be seen in many of my posts, I would be remiss to not applaud their win. It is quite an accomplishment especially since the competition was quite strong. The fact that the Oscar’s are noted for their tendency to be very conservative. An example would be the fact that Star Wars was snubbed for best picture, though most agreed that it was a break-thru in science fiction and film making. And the acting was above par (who wasn’t swept away by Darth Vader, or Han Solo. Chewbacca too.) engrossing you in a world so removed from reality as to be absurd yet moving enough to allow you to accept it all. [By the way, I always beleived Vader to be a black man, that voice just never fit any other image and it just grabbed me that a key figure of the movie was black.] But I digress. The fact that a rap song, titled "It’s Hard Out There For A Pimp" has won is a surprise equal to the performances of the actors in this movie (notably Mr. Terrence Howard).
And I will round off the music with a bigger surprise than the Oscar win. Why was Mr. Bobby Brown arrested for a 14 year old minor traffic violation? I’m really confused on this. Mr. Brown is watching his daughter in a competition and an officer ‘happens’ to do a ‘common’ warrant check. And a 14 year old charge that no one remembered, most likely, causes him to be brought in. This is such a minor event the bond was $40. Now why did the officer do this? Is it because Mr. Bobby Brown is an entertainer with a past. Did the fact that he is a Black African American with good clothes and a nice car, presumably though I don’t know he had these with him, piss off the officer. Or was this a plan they were waiting to spring for some unknown gain. It sounds like racial profiling on a celebrity level. Well until more is said about this, if ever, I can just say it leaves a bad taste in my mouth.
This is what I think, what do you think.
Saturday, March 04, 2006
The loneliest number TV One
Back in December of 2005 I mentioned a number, 27, that is huge. The fact that 27 percent of the United States population is either Black African American or Hispanic is very important. This percentage affects various government programs, and presents the continuing diversity that has helped forge this nation. It is also the benchmark used to compare the current make-up of diversity on television, movies and other media/entertainment, which sadly is nowhere near what is seen.
Recently I came across another number that is startling to me. The number of Black-owned and operated network channels. Out of roughly 500 available today the total sum of channels is 1. That is .2% of all channels available. If you aren’t appalled you should be. If you believe that BET should be counted you may have missed the fact that the Black Entertainment Television was acquired Nov. 3, 2000 by Viacom Inc. The only channel left is TV ONE, lead by the CEO Mr. Johnathan Rodgers. Mr. Rodgers is very qualified, but there seems to be a land-slide of pressure against the existence of the channel. When I say there is pressure against a Black-owned network, the fact that only one exists and the only other that had existed was bought brings me to this conclusion. To my knowledge there are significantly more Hispanic- and Asian-owned stations.
I have to wonder that, if more minorities owned networks and channels, would the thankfully short-lived existence of the UPN have ever been? Would I have ever been subjected to Homeboys in Space? I mean if there was a channel that actually understood the needs and expectations of Black African Americans, would some of the commercials and programs I have mentioned previously ever reached the air? There is a saying that you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink, but what if the water is tainted and is in the middle of a desert? I feel like that is the situation currently, no matter how the government and the entertainment industry say HDTV and the expanded channel line-up will improve the viewing options.
It comes to mind, in thinking about this, that there is an inequity in all entertainment beyond just television. Ownership by Black African American and Hispanics in sports, music and virtually every form of entertainment is horrendous. I have to ask why this is the situation. There are many affluent individuals of color in this nation. Why is it that there is no real ownership of the properties that American culture seems to steer minorities towards. Think about it, how many opportunities for the youth of today involve anything that is NOT entertainment related. Of those, if any, that you can name how many are promoted beyond word of mouth? In the Bronx, where I grew up, I can’t count how many wanna-be rappers exist. Or the next Mr. Michael Jordan, and Mr. Terrell Owens. What I can count are how many believe they can be the next Mr. Colin Powell, Ms. Condelleza Rice, or Mr. Thurgood Marshall.
I cannot blame the black culture or community completely for this. Lack of role models, or even images of successful ‘minority’ figures in any endeavor beyond entertainment is scarce and virtually non-existent on 499 channels out of 500. I call that far from encouraging for the youth who will become the decision makers of tomorrow.
This is what I think, what do you think.
Recently I came across another number that is startling to me. The number of Black-owned and operated network channels. Out of roughly 500 available today the total sum of channels is 1. That is .2% of all channels available. If you aren’t appalled you should be. If you believe that BET should be counted you may have missed the fact that the Black Entertainment Television was acquired Nov. 3, 2000 by Viacom Inc. The only channel left is TV ONE, lead by the CEO Mr. Johnathan Rodgers. Mr. Rodgers is very qualified, but there seems to be a land-slide of pressure against the existence of the channel. When I say there is pressure against a Black-owned network, the fact that only one exists and the only other that had existed was bought brings me to this conclusion. To my knowledge there are significantly more Hispanic- and Asian-owned stations.
I have to wonder that, if more minorities owned networks and channels, would the thankfully short-lived existence of the UPN have ever been? Would I have ever been subjected to Homeboys in Space? I mean if there was a channel that actually understood the needs and expectations of Black African Americans, would some of the commercials and programs I have mentioned previously ever reached the air? There is a saying that you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink, but what if the water is tainted and is in the middle of a desert? I feel like that is the situation currently, no matter how the government and the entertainment industry say HDTV and the expanded channel line-up will improve the viewing options.
It comes to mind, in thinking about this, that there is an inequity in all entertainment beyond just television. Ownership by Black African American and Hispanics in sports, music and virtually every form of entertainment is horrendous. I have to ask why this is the situation. There are many affluent individuals of color in this nation. Why is it that there is no real ownership of the properties that American culture seems to steer minorities towards. Think about it, how many opportunities for the youth of today involve anything that is NOT entertainment related. Of those, if any, that you can name how many are promoted beyond word of mouth? In the Bronx, where I grew up, I can’t count how many wanna-be rappers exist. Or the next Mr. Michael Jordan, and Mr. Terrell Owens. What I can count are how many believe they can be the next Mr. Colin Powell, Ms. Condelleza Rice, or Mr. Thurgood Marshall.
I cannot blame the black culture or community completely for this. Lack of role models, or even images of successful ‘minority’ figures in any endeavor beyond entertainment is scarce and virtually non-existent on 499 channels out of 500. I call that far from encouraging for the youth who will become the decision makers of tomorrow.
This is what I think, what do you think.
Computer sex and Carnival
There are a few things I’ve meant to speak about and post here on Black Entertainment USA that work and just 24 hours in a day haven’t allowed. I’ll try to catch up a bit now, so some of the items may be a bit old. One thing that had caught me is how the internet has changed some things that most would assume were basic. In this case I mean sex.
I’m referring to a poll of 2500 Canadian college students and safe sex. The sex in this case is as safe as it gets as its via webcam, IM and phones. How prevalent is this form of sex? 87% stated that they are engaging in it. Now I don’t think that this was what was mean by the 4th definition found in The American Heritage Dictionary - 2nd Edition. I also don’t think this is why there have been 23 Adult Video News Awards nor the 3.7 billion dollars made in 2005. Much like my thoughts on movies premiering on pay-per-view, this contactless sex is very dehumanizing and I feel it is not a good sign for the future. The more detached and separated we become, in a world that is drawn closer by the various media, and entertainment forums, the more we lose. Especially in America, as we cut back or lose arts programs in schools.
Personal preferences on sex has many expressions of course. The internet is just another way for anyone to share their kink or fetish with another in safety and somewhat varying degrees of anonymity. But I am a bit old fashioned and prefer to be in person. Of course one place that I would love to be in person, and filled with kinks and fetishes to fulfill anyone’s - I think - voyeuristic or exhibitionist desires, is Carnival in Brazil. Whether it’s being in drag, or dressed in costumes, scantily clad or just enjoying the wanton revelry there seems to be something for everyone. It seems like an experience that should not be missed, unless you are of a puritanical religious sect.
One thing I’ve never understood though, what is the deal with the heels? I never understood the foot fetishes, and while a woman in heels is never a bad thing (for me) I just don’t get it. But many samba dancers it seems do get it and wear heels that hit 6.6 inches. Now watching a woman dance a samba in those kind of heels would be interesting to see. The whole experience is definitely entertainment, and I don’t think the college students mentioned above have nearly as much fun.
No matter how fast or interconnected the world becomes experiences that include others always are the greatest ones, in my opinion. Often as technology gives us the next great gadget people forget the value of just being around others. It takes on especially scary connotations, to me, when entertainment (such as movies, music concerts, etc.) and procreation become individual, solitary acts.
This is what I think, what do you think?
I’m referring to a poll of 2500 Canadian college students and safe sex. The sex in this case is as safe as it gets as its via webcam, IM and phones. How prevalent is this form of sex? 87% stated that they are engaging in it. Now I don’t think that this was what was mean by the 4th definition found in The American Heritage Dictionary - 2nd Edition. I also don’t think this is why there have been 23 Adult Video News Awards nor the 3.7 billion dollars made in 2005. Much like my thoughts on movies premiering on pay-per-view, this contactless sex is very dehumanizing and I feel it is not a good sign for the future. The more detached and separated we become, in a world that is drawn closer by the various media, and entertainment forums, the more we lose. Especially in America, as we cut back or lose arts programs in schools.
Personal preferences on sex has many expressions of course. The internet is just another way for anyone to share their kink or fetish with another in safety and somewhat varying degrees of anonymity. But I am a bit old fashioned and prefer to be in person. Of course one place that I would love to be in person, and filled with kinks and fetishes to fulfill anyone’s - I think - voyeuristic or exhibitionist desires, is Carnival in Brazil. Whether it’s being in drag, or dressed in costumes, scantily clad or just enjoying the wanton revelry there seems to be something for everyone. It seems like an experience that should not be missed, unless you are of a puritanical religious sect.
One thing I’ve never understood though, what is the deal with the heels? I never understood the foot fetishes, and while a woman in heels is never a bad thing (for me) I just don’t get it. But many samba dancers it seems do get it and wear heels that hit 6.6 inches. Now watching a woman dance a samba in those kind of heels would be interesting to see. The whole experience is definitely entertainment, and I don’t think the college students mentioned above have nearly as much fun.
No matter how fast or interconnected the world becomes experiences that include others always are the greatest ones, in my opinion. Often as technology gives us the next great gadget people forget the value of just being around others. It takes on especially scary connotations, to me, when entertainment (such as movies, music concerts, etc.) and procreation become individual, solitary acts.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Friday, March 03, 2006
The Learning Channel, Lion Television nyc and Michael Vass
Here is something interesting I want to share with everyone. I’m sure many of you are familiar with The Learning Channel, a network found on cable. The Channel provides programs including Miami Ink, Untold stories of the E.R., Trading Spaces, and Sports Disasters. In general I find that the channel has an interesting assortment of programs with some being quite informative.
What stands out about this channel is that I was contacted by Mr. Don Peavy, a Casting Associate for Lion Televison nyc. Mr. Peavy found Black Entertainment USA via the link from BlackRefer.com, who can also be found in my reference section. I was informed that a new program for the Learning Channel was being planned. A description of the proposed program as explained in an email from Mr. Peavy as follows:
“My current focus is on the Black community, as we are casting a show about families that took road trips during the 70's/80's, but most of our respondents are caucasian and we are trying to represent a more diverse America.”
In speaking with Mr. Peavy I came to understand that the program is seeking pictures, any type of moving image, which includes video, Super 8, 8mm, and Film reels from the trips taken during this time period. More importantly the program is seeking to learn the insights and experiences that were had by the children and families at that time. The goal of the program, as I understand it, is to hear the impressions and experiences that may not have been able to be expressed due to youth. The target age for this program is 25 years and older. I am especially glad to hear that the program is actively seeking to show perspectives from individuals from various races to give a balanced view from those times.
Sadly, my family could not take trips during that time, and most of my experiences in traveling and living in various places around the world have occurred in my late teens and on. Given this I am not eligible for the program, but perhaps some of you are. Mr. Don Peavy is willing to take calls from my readers, particularly those that are of Black African American, Hispanic and other minority descent. Mr. Peavy can be reached for further discussion at 917-606-3879.
I hope that at least some of you, my readers, do qualify for the program and can be included in it. I am always happy to be of help in advancing any televised program that promotes and includes the experiences of Black African Americans, Hispanics and others in America. I think the timeframe that this show will document is a very important one, as it covers the responses to the Civil Rights Act, Disco, the birth of Rap, the creation and expansion of Zulu Nation, Archie Bunker, The Jeffersons, roller blading, Blaxplotation films and other events in movies, television, and general life at the time. I’m interested in seeing the show once it airs.
This is what I think, what do you think.
What stands out about this channel is that I was contacted by Mr. Don Peavy, a Casting Associate for Lion Televison nyc. Mr. Peavy found Black Entertainment USA via the link from BlackRefer.com, who can also be found in my reference section. I was informed that a new program for the Learning Channel was being planned. A description of the proposed program as explained in an email from Mr. Peavy as follows:
“My current focus is on the Black community, as we are casting a show about families that took road trips during the 70's/80's, but most of our respondents are caucasian and we are trying to represent a more diverse America.”
In speaking with Mr. Peavy I came to understand that the program is seeking pictures, any type of moving image, which includes video, Super 8, 8mm, and Film reels from the trips taken during this time period. More importantly the program is seeking to learn the insights and experiences that were had by the children and families at that time. The goal of the program, as I understand it, is to hear the impressions and experiences that may not have been able to be expressed due to youth. The target age for this program is 25 years and older. I am especially glad to hear that the program is actively seeking to show perspectives from individuals from various races to give a balanced view from those times.
Sadly, my family could not take trips during that time, and most of my experiences in traveling and living in various places around the world have occurred in my late teens and on. Given this I am not eligible for the program, but perhaps some of you are. Mr. Don Peavy is willing to take calls from my readers, particularly those that are of Black African American, Hispanic and other minority descent. Mr. Peavy can be reached for further discussion at 917-606-3879.
I hope that at least some of you, my readers, do qualify for the program and can be included in it. I am always happy to be of help in advancing any televised program that promotes and includes the experiences of Black African Americans, Hispanics and others in America. I think the timeframe that this show will document is a very important one, as it covers the responses to the Civil Rights Act, Disco, the birth of Rap, the creation and expansion of Zulu Nation, Archie Bunker, The Jeffersons, roller blading, Blaxplotation films and other events in movies, television, and general life at the time. I’m interested in seeing the show once it airs.
This is what I think, what do you think.
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