On a completely different thought, I want to mention that I have added 2 more clothing lines at my online store www.cafepress.com/nova68. This brings the number to 12 clothing lines in total.
The latest 2 lines feature, I’m Black and proud and Respect my mind (model photos of these new clothing lines will be up after the next photo shoot). Past clothing lines include the Cowboy Ride, Nothing sexier, Battery died, Rejoice in me, I am the myth, Character is Forever and several others.
I’m sure with the well over 200 items available, you can find a unique something that will stand out for Valentine’s Day. I even have an Ex’s are Forever line for those not feeling the holiday’s spirit.
I’m not the only one mentioning that the ladies need to see something different from the same couple of roses as last year. “Many guys who are attached, semi-attached, or about-to-be-attached simply tend to run the same plays year after year, making Valentine's Day as predictable as finales of The Bachelor. Though the average man spends about $125 on Valentine's Day, he's likely not spending it in the right places… Only 1 in 5 women say they want the traditional dinner and less than that want the traditional card and flowers (about 15 percent).”
Well there you go.
By the way, if there is a design you’d like to see or any other change/addition to any of the sites, please get in touch with me. Also for those in the Binghamton area, I am always looking for models (men and women, all races and ages) for my next model shoot.
You can contact me either by going to my contact page or using info@blackentertainmentblog.com.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Fear Master Shake, and who is most desirable - 1.31.2007.1
Well there were a few things that caught my eye today. One item, was the sad reminder that large amounts of wealth and a strong dash of fame rarely mixes well with friends and family. In this case it’s the signal of perhaps the end of a long friendship for Mr. Bruce Willis. While the lawsuit was settled, the fact that it had been made may be the breaking point between Mr. Willis and his friend. I’m always sorry to hear of stories like this. There are never any winners in this kind of situation.
Speaking of a no-win situation, imagine that you are just coming home after a particularly stressful day. Your only thought is to get home and relax watching television in that massage chair you got over Christmas. You sit down, turn it on, and after a few minutes you pop up wondering what you left on the stove that was burning. Sadly you realize that it’s actually your chair on fire. Not a good day at all. Luckily for most of my readers it’s not an issue, the massage chairs made by Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. Ltd, are sold in Japan and Asia (and are being recalled). So perhaps your day here is not as bad as you might have first thought.
In terms of relaxing, it seems that there are quite a few men that daydream about a few stars. A list was made by AskMen.com on the 99 most desirable women of 2007 [why 99? And isn’t it a bit early to be doing this kind of list in January?] had Ms. Beyonce Knowles at number 1. A good choice I think.
Who didn’t make the list? Well I think Ms. Alicia Keys should have made it. Talented and good looking, but the low profile she had in 2006 kept her out. That’s a shame. On the other end of the spectrum Mrs. Britney Spears (is she still married?) didn’t make it either. Thank goodness. I’m so tired of seeing her face. Limited talent, not really that pretty, no class – why do people still talk about her? And where was Mrs. Jada Pinkett-Smith? She is classy and sexy and deserves to be on the list, married or not. I have to add a long time favorite of Ms. Claudia Black. [Ayrn Sun rules! I don’t give a frell if you don’t agree. My fellow ‘Scapers know what I mean.]
Now as for the other women on the most desirable list, Ms. Gabrielle Union is far too low at 94. Ms. Rosario Dawson made it to 77, Ms. Jennifer Esposito got 69 (higher than Ms. Dawson?), Fergie is 60, Mrs. Gwen Stefani hit 56, Ms. Mandy Moore ranked 53, Ms. Tyra Banks was what to high at 26. Ms. Charlize Theron could have been higher at 24, Ms. Angalina Jolie caught 9, and Ms. Jessica Alba was far too high at 3. There are a huge number of women I have never seen before (but I’m not big on basic television or low quality programming so that could be a factor). And why are most of the women so thin that they have little or no curves? Face it, they may say that Ms. Knowles is number 1 because of abilities, but her sex appeal didn’t hurt either. That sex appeal is in no small part the fact that she has curves. Why most forms of entertainment are afraid of women with curves I have no idea. If models were shaped more like Ms. Knowles or Ms. Mayra Veronica I’m sure Top Model or runway shows would be far more interesting, for men and women. But that’s my take on the list you can check it out and make your on decision. [Ms. Hilary Duff, Ms. Jennifer Aniston, Ms. Lindsay Lohan, Ms. Penelope Cruz, Ms. Jessica Simpson, Ms. Eva Longoria all made the list and I have no idea why.]
Lastly, I hope that the actions or guerilla marketers in Boston will not adversely affect the programming at Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim. You may have heard how the various images of Err, and Master Shake shoke-up the city with fears of a terrorist scare or bombing hoax. It actually was just advertising that went wrong. It seems similar marketing ploys are in 9 other cities, and have been for weeks. I have to wonder though, that since these items were around for a couple of weeks (as was reported), did someone from the parent network decide to get some extra attention and called in the first couple of bomb reportings? Maybe an exec with a desire to get more traction since some poll showed the marketing wasn’t getting enough attention? I have to admit that I thought something was up when Err was pictured on screen and reporters fumbled to figure out who he was and the name of the show. They couldn’t even get the Moonites name right at first. Watching them describe the Aqua Teen Hunger Force show broke up the tension a lot! The apology at 7:59pm on Fox News, for screwing up the details, was classic!
This is what I think, what do you think?
Speaking of a no-win situation, imagine that you are just coming home after a particularly stressful day. Your only thought is to get home and relax watching television in that massage chair you got over Christmas. You sit down, turn it on, and after a few minutes you pop up wondering what you left on the stove that was burning. Sadly you realize that it’s actually your chair on fire. Not a good day at all. Luckily for most of my readers it’s not an issue, the massage chairs made by Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. Ltd, are sold in Japan and Asia (and are being recalled). So perhaps your day here is not as bad as you might have first thought.
In terms of relaxing, it seems that there are quite a few men that daydream about a few stars. A list was made by AskMen.com on the 99 most desirable women of 2007 [why 99? And isn’t it a bit early to be doing this kind of list in January?] had Ms. Beyonce Knowles at number 1. A good choice I think.
Who didn’t make the list? Well I think Ms. Alicia Keys should have made it. Talented and good looking, but the low profile she had in 2006 kept her out. That’s a shame. On the other end of the spectrum Mrs. Britney Spears (is she still married?) didn’t make it either. Thank goodness. I’m so tired of seeing her face. Limited talent, not really that pretty, no class – why do people still talk about her? And where was Mrs. Jada Pinkett-Smith? She is classy and sexy and deserves to be on the list, married or not. I have to add a long time favorite of Ms. Claudia Black. [Ayrn Sun rules! I don’t give a frell if you don’t agree. My fellow ‘Scapers know what I mean.]
Now as for the other women on the most desirable list, Ms. Gabrielle Union is far too low at 94. Ms. Rosario Dawson made it to 77, Ms. Jennifer Esposito got 69 (higher than Ms. Dawson?), Fergie is 60, Mrs. Gwen Stefani hit 56, Ms. Mandy Moore ranked 53, Ms. Tyra Banks was what to high at 26. Ms. Charlize Theron could have been higher at 24, Ms. Angalina Jolie caught 9, and Ms. Jessica Alba was far too high at 3. There are a huge number of women I have never seen before (but I’m not big on basic television or low quality programming so that could be a factor). And why are most of the women so thin that they have little or no curves? Face it, they may say that Ms. Knowles is number 1 because of abilities, but her sex appeal didn’t hurt either. That sex appeal is in no small part the fact that she has curves. Why most forms of entertainment are afraid of women with curves I have no idea. If models were shaped more like Ms. Knowles or Ms. Mayra Veronica I’m sure Top Model or runway shows would be far more interesting, for men and women. But that’s my take on the list you can check it out and make your on decision. [Ms. Hilary Duff, Ms. Jennifer Aniston, Ms. Lindsay Lohan, Ms. Penelope Cruz, Ms. Jessica Simpson, Ms. Eva Longoria all made the list and I have no idea why.]
Lastly, I hope that the actions or guerilla marketers in Boston will not adversely affect the programming at Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim. You may have heard how the various images of Err, and Master Shake shoke-up the city with fears of a terrorist scare or bombing hoax. It actually was just advertising that went wrong. It seems similar marketing ploys are in 9 other cities, and have been for weeks. I have to wonder though, that since these items were around for a couple of weeks (as was reported), did someone from the parent network decide to get some extra attention and called in the first couple of bomb reportings? Maybe an exec with a desire to get more traction since some poll showed the marketing wasn’t getting enough attention? I have to admit that I thought something was up when Err was pictured on screen and reporters fumbled to figure out who he was and the name of the show. They couldn’t even get the Moonites name right at first. Watching them describe the Aqua Teen Hunger Force show broke up the tension a lot! The apology at 7:59pm on Fox News, for screwing up the details, was classic!
This is what I think, what do you think?
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Bob Marley, Stephen Colbert, & Armed and Cancelled
I am shocked and amazed. The magnitude of this event is inspiring. This may even herald a new trend in television programming. Yeah, right. So what am I almost gushing about? The latest bottom of the barrel scraping, Armed and Famous, has been canceled. This silly idea of a ‘reality’ program flopped, just as I thought it would. The Mayor of Muncie may have felt it was a good idea, a way to show off the police force but the ratings confirmed my thought that it was just stupid. Rather than “showing what they’re doing in the middle of the night…” (something that is better served by COPS in my opinion) it just was something to put people to sleep early in the night. Let hope the executives at CBS learn from this and stop with the ‘reality’ shows. I’m sure they can afford to put on a new television show, and please don’t make it another CSI spinoff.
Well as one Mayor has failed to win an audience for his town, another has lost his birthday. Yes, it’s true. Mayor of Oshawa, Mr. John Gray, can’t celebrate his birthday on March 20th because he will be busy celebrating Stephen Colbert Day instead. Fans of Mr. Colbert’s show and readers here may recall that a bet was made on a hockey game during an episode of the program. The Saginaw Spirit, the Ontario Hockey League team favored by Mr. Colbert due to its Steagle Colbeagle the Eagle mascot, beat the Oshawa Generals 5-4 guaranteeing the day of celebration in Mr. Colbert’s honor.
Now knowing Mr. Colbert, I am sure that there will be something special happening at that event. I would not be surprised to see him visit the city and join in the festivities. Either way, with the added press and interest of fans, it should be a fun time. I might even go up there to see what happens. If I can figure out where Oshawa is. What can I say, it’s in Canada and I’m a better-than-average-yet-geographically-challenged-American. [yes, another bad joke. Are there any comedy writers out there?]
Another trip worth taking will be on February 10th. On that day a concert celebrating singer Mr. Bob Marley will be performed at Nine Miles in Jamaica. The show will be a tribute to Mr. Marley, and the performers will be his sons – sans Ziggy. I wasn’t nearly old enough to go to a Bob Marley concert when he was alive, but his music conveys a feeling to me that it was something I would have loved.
I’m sure everyone has heard a song or several by Bob Marley and the Wailers. Most may not get the fact that Mr. Marley was highly political, and hopeful of world peace. The songs Buffalo Soldier, Wake Up Stand Up!, and many others are wonderful to listen to, but also hold far deeper meanings.
There was a Buffalo Soldier in the heart of America, Stolen from Africa, brought to America,
Fighting on arrival, fighting for survival – from Buffalo Soldier
Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery;
None but ourselves can free our mind.
Wo! Have no fear for atomic energy,
'Cause none of them-a can-a stop-a the time –from Redemption Song
Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery;
None but ourselves can free our mind.
Wo! Have no fear for atomic energy,
'Cause none of them-a can-a stop-a the time – from Could You Be Loved
Look, how long (wo-o-o-o)
And the people they (wo-o-o-o) still can't see.
Why do they fight against the poor youth of today?
And without these youths, they would be gone All gone astray – from 400 Years
That until there no longer
First class and second class citizens of any nation
Until the colour of a man's skin
Is of no more significance than the colour of his eyes -
Me say war. – War
Don’t just hear the songs, listen to them. Mr. Marley did more than just entertain, he taught those who took a moment to look deeper. Entertainers like this are far too rare, sadly.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Well as one Mayor has failed to win an audience for his town, another has lost his birthday. Yes, it’s true. Mayor of Oshawa, Mr. John Gray, can’t celebrate his birthday on March 20th because he will be busy celebrating Stephen Colbert Day instead. Fans of Mr. Colbert’s show and readers here may recall that a bet was made on a hockey game during an episode of the program. The Saginaw Spirit, the Ontario Hockey League team favored by Mr. Colbert due to its Steagle Colbeagle the Eagle mascot, beat the Oshawa Generals 5-4 guaranteeing the day of celebration in Mr. Colbert’s honor.
Now knowing Mr. Colbert, I am sure that there will be something special happening at that event. I would not be surprised to see him visit the city and join in the festivities. Either way, with the added press and interest of fans, it should be a fun time. I might even go up there to see what happens. If I can figure out where Oshawa is. What can I say, it’s in Canada and I’m a better-than-average-yet-geographically-challenged-American. [yes, another bad joke. Are there any comedy writers out there?]
Another trip worth taking will be on February 10th. On that day a concert celebrating singer Mr. Bob Marley will be performed at Nine Miles in Jamaica. The show will be a tribute to Mr. Marley, and the performers will be his sons – sans Ziggy. I wasn’t nearly old enough to go to a Bob Marley concert when he was alive, but his music conveys a feeling to me that it was something I would have loved.
I’m sure everyone has heard a song or several by Bob Marley and the Wailers. Most may not get the fact that Mr. Marley was highly political, and hopeful of world peace. The songs Buffalo Soldier, Wake Up Stand Up!, and many others are wonderful to listen to, but also hold far deeper meanings.
There was a Buffalo Soldier in the heart of America, Stolen from Africa, brought to America,
Fighting on arrival, fighting for survival – from Buffalo Soldier
Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery;
None but ourselves can free our mind.
Wo! Have no fear for atomic energy,
'Cause none of them-a can-a stop-a the time –from Redemption Song
Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery;
None but ourselves can free our mind.
Wo! Have no fear for atomic energy,
'Cause none of them-a can-a stop-a the time – from Could You Be Loved
Look, how long (wo-o-o-o)
And the people they (wo-o-o-o) still can't see.
Why do they fight against the poor youth of today?
And without these youths, they would be gone All gone astray – from 400 Years
That until there no longer
First class and second class citizens of any nation
Until the colour of a man's skin
Is of no more significance than the colour of his eyes -
Me say war. – War
Don’t just hear the songs, listen to them. Mr. Marley did more than just entertain, he taught those who took a moment to look deeper. Entertainers like this are far too rare, sadly.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Hanoi Fonda back to old tricks - 1.30.2007.1
This is a post that deals with mostly one actress and politics. I have posted it on the entertainment blog due to that fact. I have let you know that it is political as opposed to most other posts. Also if you are a fan of Jane ‘Hanoi’ Fonda [I first commented on her in my post jul 26 2005], I’d advise you to skip this.
I just heard about the protest that occurred on Saturday. There were several celebrities there, including Mr. Tim Robbins, Mrs. Susan Sarandon (Mr. Robbins wife), Mr. Sean Penn, and someone I truly hate – Jane Fonda. Let me start off that I respect every person in the crowd that voiced their view on the war (except fonda). It’s a vital principle of American life that they can protest, and unlike other countries none of them were shot dead for it. The differing views are important to keep the balance of America and to attain the best for the nation.
I will mention that this is similar to the actions we saw during the Viet Nam war. Perhaps many of the youth today are too young to recall what happened. I was young when the protests were occurring myself. But I was old enough to see the result on my father, a Marine and veteran of Viet Nam. And that stuck with me for life.
I respect the actors that feel strongly enough about the actions of the government to risk their public images in protests. I respect the ordinary people that want the government to know that they disagree with the actions currently ongoing. But I think they are all wrong.
I do not feel they support the troops as their actions fail to match the definition of ‘support’. Anyone who disagrees with that should look up the definition of the word and explain to me how their actions fulfill that. That is my opinion, and it is no more or less worthwhile than theirs.
I do see this being the beginning of actions that will be similar to those of Viet Nam. Perhaps Democrats such as Senator Jim Webb had good memories of the return home, my father did not. And I will be extremely angry if anyone treats the young men and women returning from Iraq as they did my father. Some need to take a moment and recall that the only reason they can call names and not support the troops is because those same troops, and all those that have bled, sweat, and died before them, have made it possible.
As for Hanoi Jane, I agree with Mr. Danny Bonaduce in that I would be happy to have seen her shot for treason years ago. Protest all you want, but aiding the enemy of our nation and our troops is treason. I have no respect for the woman. Her (what I feel are) false and half-hearted apologies do not sway me. Some 30+ years later she has admitted remorse. Am I stupid? That is a political and economic response, timed perfectly to match a book and a movie release. I do not forget, nor will I forgive her. She had decades to apologize, or explain her thoughts. She was a grown woman, aware of her actions and their impact when she made them in the 70’s. Her hope, I feel, that the youth of the nation would not remember and thus forgive does not work with me. I am repulsed by violence against women, but I would pay to have a woman give Jane ‘Hanoi’ Fonda a beat down. I feel that strongly about her actions.
As for Deborah at News Hounds, Mr. Bonaduce is not perfect. There is no question of his well documented past. But I demand you find one instance where he sided with declared enemies of our nation, especially when our Armed Forces were fighting and dying. Hanoi Jane did do that, it is a fact. She posed for the photos and supported the enemies of the nation as our sons and fathers died. She was not forced. Mr. Bonaduce never did anything even close to that. Showing the photos she voluntarily posed for or mentioning the actions she did is not slander or nasty, it’s factual. The age that Mr. Bonaduce saw the photo has nothing to do with its impact. I was young as well and the repercussions made an impact on my family. Trauma is not restricted to an age group. Also the definition of treason during a time of war is what Hanoi Jane did, and should have been tried for. The punishment at the time was death, to remind those too young to remember this is not a false accusation. If it wasn’t true I’m sure some lawyer would be suing now. As for quoting 30,000 – that is tens of thousands, 3 x ten thousand to be exact – thus the estimate sounds accurate to the math I was taught.
Lastly, yes we all have made mistakes. Waiting 30 years to admit it is not a show of remorse to me. Consciously siding against your nation is not a mistake, no matter the time it takes to admit what was already documented in photos and other media. To remind people of the facts, and to express an opinion is not cowardly, nor a bully tactic. It’s little different than going to a war protest. If you can’t accept that, that is unforgivable.
This is what I think, what do you think?
I just heard about the protest that occurred on Saturday. There were several celebrities there, including Mr. Tim Robbins, Mrs. Susan Sarandon (Mr. Robbins wife), Mr. Sean Penn, and someone I truly hate – Jane Fonda. Let me start off that I respect every person in the crowd that voiced their view on the war (except fonda). It’s a vital principle of American life that they can protest, and unlike other countries none of them were shot dead for it. The differing views are important to keep the balance of America and to attain the best for the nation.
I will mention that this is similar to the actions we saw during the Viet Nam war. Perhaps many of the youth today are too young to recall what happened. I was young when the protests were occurring myself. But I was old enough to see the result on my father, a Marine and veteran of Viet Nam. And that stuck with me for life.
I respect the actors that feel strongly enough about the actions of the government to risk their public images in protests. I respect the ordinary people that want the government to know that they disagree with the actions currently ongoing. But I think they are all wrong.
I do not feel they support the troops as their actions fail to match the definition of ‘support’. Anyone who disagrees with that should look up the definition of the word and explain to me how their actions fulfill that. That is my opinion, and it is no more or less worthwhile than theirs.
I do see this being the beginning of actions that will be similar to those of Viet Nam. Perhaps Democrats such as Senator Jim Webb had good memories of the return home, my father did not. And I will be extremely angry if anyone treats the young men and women returning from Iraq as they did my father. Some need to take a moment and recall that the only reason they can call names and not support the troops is because those same troops, and all those that have bled, sweat, and died before them, have made it possible.
As for Hanoi Jane, I agree with Mr. Danny Bonaduce in that I would be happy to have seen her shot for treason years ago. Protest all you want, but aiding the enemy of our nation and our troops is treason. I have no respect for the woman. Her (what I feel are) false and half-hearted apologies do not sway me. Some 30+ years later she has admitted remorse. Am I stupid? That is a political and economic response, timed perfectly to match a book and a movie release. I do not forget, nor will I forgive her. She had decades to apologize, or explain her thoughts. She was a grown woman, aware of her actions and their impact when she made them in the 70’s. Her hope, I feel, that the youth of the nation would not remember and thus forgive does not work with me. I am repulsed by violence against women, but I would pay to have a woman give Jane ‘Hanoi’ Fonda a beat down. I feel that strongly about her actions.
As for Deborah at News Hounds, Mr. Bonaduce is not perfect. There is no question of his well documented past. But I demand you find one instance where he sided with declared enemies of our nation, especially when our Armed Forces were fighting and dying. Hanoi Jane did do that, it is a fact. She posed for the photos and supported the enemies of the nation as our sons and fathers died. She was not forced. Mr. Bonaduce never did anything even close to that. Showing the photos she voluntarily posed for or mentioning the actions she did is not slander or nasty, it’s factual. The age that Mr. Bonaduce saw the photo has nothing to do with its impact. I was young as well and the repercussions made an impact on my family. Trauma is not restricted to an age group. Also the definition of treason during a time of war is what Hanoi Jane did, and should have been tried for. The punishment at the time was death, to remind those too young to remember this is not a false accusation. If it wasn’t true I’m sure some lawyer would be suing now. As for quoting 30,000 – that is tens of thousands, 3 x ten thousand to be exact – thus the estimate sounds accurate to the math I was taught.
Lastly, yes we all have made mistakes. Waiting 30 years to admit it is not a show of remorse to me. Consciously siding against your nation is not a mistake, no matter the time it takes to admit what was already documented in photos and other media. To remind people of the facts, and to express an opinion is not cowardly, nor a bully tactic. It’s little different than going to a war protest. If you can’t accept that, that is unforgivable.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Monday, January 29, 2007
Screen Actor's Guild Award winners - 1.29.2007.2
Excuse me for a moment as I take a second to give myself a bow. Yes I got 5 out of 7 right – 71% - which I call pretty respectable. If you are wondering why I’m so pleased with myself, of the guesses I made on January 9th for the Screen Actor’s Guild Awards [Bad films and Screen Actors Guild Awards hopefuls - 1.9.2007.1] I came pretty close to a clean sweep.
Not too bad for a regular guy. Perhaps the Oscar Award voters are paying attention. They should be. Considering how they have completely disconnected with the public, again, in not nominating Dreamgirls for Best Picture. I would love to hear the reasoning on why it was not nominated. I will give the SAG Awards the benefit of doubt on Little Miss Sunshine, at least they recognized the talent in Dreamgirls by giving them a nomination for best ensemble (basically best picture).
The snub really irritates me. 8 Oscar nominations, but not best picture. Never in 79 years has the leading nominated film not been a best picture. If it is so highly regarded how can it not also be best picture? This reminds me of the fear in 1993, when Malcolm X was not nominated for best picture, nor Mr. Spike Lee for best director. Yet there was large critical acclaim for the film, it won several awards (lesser ones but still won all the same), and Mr. Denzel Washington was easily recognized for his portrayal. In that case though I think the political commentary of Mr. Malcolm X was too much for the predominantly liberal white Oscar committee. [By the way I think this was the reason Mr. Washington won the Oscar. Often the Oscars will give a deserving actor/actress an award in a later good movie for a phenomenal role they were passed over on previously.]
The excuse for Dreamgirls escapes me. It’s popular, making money, still in movie theaters, well done and critically acclaimed – even before the Oscar nod. The only reason I can see for it to get snubbed as it has is a horrible and deplorable reason. I can only hope that isn’t the reason.
But to get back to the point of this post, I am sure that my winning choices will win the Oscar Awards as well. The choices that apply anyway. My congratulations to the winners, Mr. Hugh Laurie (you really should see him play the title character House. Biting wit and sarcasm matched with intense ability. Well written and balanced by an excellent cast), Mr. Forest Whitaker (a long time favorite of mine. His work in Ghost Dog is especially good, though his role as Idi Amin is even better), Mr. Eddie Murphy (I spoke about him in What does Eddie Murphy make you think of? - 12.22.2006.1), Ms. Jennifer Hudson and all the other winners.
Now let’s see how I do for the Oscars.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Not too bad for a regular guy. Perhaps the Oscar Award voters are paying attention. They should be. Considering how they have completely disconnected with the public, again, in not nominating Dreamgirls for Best Picture. I would love to hear the reasoning on why it was not nominated. I will give the SAG Awards the benefit of doubt on Little Miss Sunshine, at least they recognized the talent in Dreamgirls by giving them a nomination for best ensemble (basically best picture).
The snub really irritates me. 8 Oscar nominations, but not best picture. Never in 79 years has the leading nominated film not been a best picture. If it is so highly regarded how can it not also be best picture? This reminds me of the fear in 1993, when Malcolm X was not nominated for best picture, nor Mr. Spike Lee for best director. Yet there was large critical acclaim for the film, it won several awards (lesser ones but still won all the same), and Mr. Denzel Washington was easily recognized for his portrayal. In that case though I think the political commentary of Mr. Malcolm X was too much for the predominantly liberal white Oscar committee. [By the way I think this was the reason Mr. Washington won the Oscar. Often the Oscars will give a deserving actor/actress an award in a later good movie for a phenomenal role they were passed over on previously.]
The excuse for Dreamgirls escapes me. It’s popular, making money, still in movie theaters, well done and critically acclaimed – even before the Oscar nod. The only reason I can see for it to get snubbed as it has is a horrible and deplorable reason. I can only hope that isn’t the reason.
But to get back to the point of this post, I am sure that my winning choices will win the Oscar Awards as well. The choices that apply anyway. My congratulations to the winners, Mr. Hugh Laurie (you really should see him play the title character House. Biting wit and sarcasm matched with intense ability. Well written and balanced by an excellent cast), Mr. Forest Whitaker (a long time favorite of mine. His work in Ghost Dog is especially good, though his role as Idi Amin is even better), Mr. Eddie Murphy (I spoke about him in What does Eddie Murphy make you think of? - 12.22.2006.1), Ms. Jennifer Hudson and all the other winners.
Now let’s see how I do for the Oscars.
This is what I think, what do you think?
LL Cool J, Julia Child, and Amobi Okoye - 1.29.2007.1
There were a couple of things that most might have missed in the last couple of days. One is a nice tribute to the original television chef that started the industry niche. I’m speaking of Ms. Julia Child. I’m sure many my age and older recall this chef and her cooking program, that was on the same channel as Sesame Street and the Electric Company. I loved watching her put together a meal, which was always a bit better when you add a bit of sherry. Seriously, I’m pretty sure I recall her often taking a sip of sherry or 2, or more, in every episode. But she always looked like she was having a great time, and it was well worth the time to see what she created. It always looked like something you wanted to eat.
While younger readers may not be familiar with Ms. Child, they should take a moment to do a search on her. Without her show (which to my knowledge was the first cooking show, or at least the only one in the 70’s and 80’s) I doubt if there would be a Top Chef, or Food Network. Because of her achievements, Ms. Child is being honored by being added to the National Women’s Hall of Fame. It’s a shame this is being done after she has passed, but it is something I’m glad to see happen.
Another nugget of news is about LL Cool J. He has a new book out, LL Cool J’s Platinum Workout, that he hopes will help people improve their body and lives. I’m sure there are many women, and some men I’m sure, that love his physique. Well now anyone can get a better body, perhaps even one like his. But the big point is that it’s not about the outer image but the inner one. Unlike most stars that hock a video or book about dieting or getting in shape, LL Cool J is centered on the inner development that works its way out. That’s the difference, and that’s why I’m mentioning it. I haven’t read the book, but I did read his interview. Considering his words I think it could be worth the time for some.
And another inspiring item is a potential NFL draftee. Mr. Amobi Okoye is 19, entered high school at 12, got into college at 16 and a degree 3 ½ years later in psychology. He is expected to be in picked up in the first round of the draft. This is the kind of kid I think should be allowed into the majors. Unlike the high school kids that have no back-up plan, nor maturity, this is a kid that has accomplished a lot quickly. Especially when you consider that he is from Nigeria, he came to America when he was 12.
Now this is what more African American kids should be striving to be like. Success in more than just physical abilities. His mind has had at least as much growth as his body. He has adapted to the environment he is in, and he has excelled. I pose this young man as the example that there is more to life than trying to be a ‘baby-daddy’ or ‘thug.’ There is more you can gain than drinking a 40 on the corner waiting for someone to shoot you dead. There is a reason to stay in school. Maybe you won’t be a star athlete, maybe it will take longer to get your degree, but there is no reason you can’t do it. African Americans don’t need to learn a new language [and eubonics is not a language, it’s an excuse to allow people to be uneducated and poor – in my opinion] or travel to a different country to have a better quality of life. The color of your skin does not prevent you from gaining knowledge and improving your life. You just have to want it, and strive for it.
There was an old television ad by the NAACP, I believe it went, ‘There nothing worse than wasting a mind.’ Mr. Okoye knew this, perhaps the television ad needs to come back to remind everyone else.
This is what I think, what do you think?
While younger readers may not be familiar with Ms. Child, they should take a moment to do a search on her. Without her show (which to my knowledge was the first cooking show, or at least the only one in the 70’s and 80’s) I doubt if there would be a Top Chef, or Food Network. Because of her achievements, Ms. Child is being honored by being added to the National Women’s Hall of Fame. It’s a shame this is being done after she has passed, but it is something I’m glad to see happen.
Another nugget of news is about LL Cool J. He has a new book out, LL Cool J’s Platinum Workout, that he hopes will help people improve their body and lives. I’m sure there are many women, and some men I’m sure, that love his physique. Well now anyone can get a better body, perhaps even one like his. But the big point is that it’s not about the outer image but the inner one. Unlike most stars that hock a video or book about dieting or getting in shape, LL Cool J is centered on the inner development that works its way out. That’s the difference, and that’s why I’m mentioning it. I haven’t read the book, but I did read his interview. Considering his words I think it could be worth the time for some.
And another inspiring item is a potential NFL draftee. Mr. Amobi Okoye is 19, entered high school at 12, got into college at 16 and a degree 3 ½ years later in psychology. He is expected to be in picked up in the first round of the draft. This is the kind of kid I think should be allowed into the majors. Unlike the high school kids that have no back-up plan, nor maturity, this is a kid that has accomplished a lot quickly. Especially when you consider that he is from Nigeria, he came to America when he was 12.
Now this is what more African American kids should be striving to be like. Success in more than just physical abilities. His mind has had at least as much growth as his body. He has adapted to the environment he is in, and he has excelled. I pose this young man as the example that there is more to life than trying to be a ‘baby-daddy’ or ‘thug.’ There is more you can gain than drinking a 40 on the corner waiting for someone to shoot you dead. There is a reason to stay in school. Maybe you won’t be a star athlete, maybe it will take longer to get your degree, but there is no reason you can’t do it. African Americans don’t need to learn a new language [and eubonics is not a language, it’s an excuse to allow people to be uneducated and poor – in my opinion] or travel to a different country to have a better quality of life. The color of your skin does not prevent you from gaining knowledge and improving your life. You just have to want it, and strive for it.
There was an old television ad by the NAACP, I believe it went, ‘There nothing worse than wasting a mind.’ Mr. Okoye knew this, perhaps the television ad needs to come back to remind everyone else.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Friday, January 26, 2007
Old bands, water and Wii, and the weird - 1.26.2007.2
While I have pointed out a few odd things overseas, there is no lacking of oddity here at home. Actually some of them are more like acts of stupidity. One example is the DJ’s responsible for the death of a wife and mother in California. Many should have heard by now of the contest where contestants were told to continuously drink as much water as possible without using a restroom. The goal was to win a Wii video game system.
Whether of not this was a dumb idea, or whether the contestants should have been more prepared for the potential consequences, the fact that the DJ’s didn’t care is irresponsible. They stated on air, which has been replayed at various news media outlets, that their only concern was their own legal liability and publicity. They ignored the comments by contestants, and at least one nurse. Thankfully these people, all the ones associated with this program, have been fired. The radio station and its corporate parent Entercom/Sacremento, as well as several individuals are all getting sued.
It’s a shame that sometimes, we do things that are stupid instead of just odd. There is no word I have for what it is when it takes a life.
Someone else I have no words for is Mr. Michael Jackson. Mr. Jackson has announced that he is now back in the United States. Parents watch out for your kids. Having traveled the world the quiet re-emergence of Mr. Jackson here gives me pause. It’s been rumored that he is nearly bankrupt, so that may be one reason for the return. Of course where his children may be, and what is there mental state remains unknown. Fans, particularly in Japan, seem to not care about this though. It’s been reported that he is going to be having a ‘fan event’ that will bring in about 990,000 dollars. I don’t know. If all the allegations against the man are true I’d pay that to see him locked up.
In some unique mundane news, it seems that the most of the original Van Halen will be getting back together. It’s about time too. Mr. Sammy Hagar wasn’t bad, but the band was far better with Mr. David Lee Roth. If the deal works out, there could be a limited tour this summer. Of course if the deal is announced before the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in March it should make the meeting of Mr. Hagar and Mr. Roth, and Mr. Eddie Van Halen quite interesting. Cross your fingers and we’ll see what happens.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Whether of not this was a dumb idea, or whether the contestants should have been more prepared for the potential consequences, the fact that the DJ’s didn’t care is irresponsible. They stated on air, which has been replayed at various news media outlets, that their only concern was their own legal liability and publicity. They ignored the comments by contestants, and at least one nurse. Thankfully these people, all the ones associated with this program, have been fired. The radio station and its corporate parent Entercom/Sacremento, as well as several individuals are all getting sued.
It’s a shame that sometimes, we do things that are stupid instead of just odd. There is no word I have for what it is when it takes a life.
Someone else I have no words for is Mr. Michael Jackson. Mr. Jackson has announced that he is now back in the United States. Parents watch out for your kids. Having traveled the world the quiet re-emergence of Mr. Jackson here gives me pause. It’s been rumored that he is nearly bankrupt, so that may be one reason for the return. Of course where his children may be, and what is there mental state remains unknown. Fans, particularly in Japan, seem to not care about this though. It’s been reported that he is going to be having a ‘fan event’ that will bring in about 990,000 dollars. I don’t know. If all the allegations against the man are true I’d pay that to see him locked up.
In some unique mundane news, it seems that the most of the original Van Halen will be getting back together. It’s about time too. Mr. Sammy Hagar wasn’t bad, but the band was far better with Mr. David Lee Roth. If the deal works out, there could be a limited tour this summer. Of course if the deal is announced before the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in March it should make the meeting of Mr. Hagar and Mr. Roth, and Mr. Eddie Van Halen quite interesting. Cross your fingers and we’ll see what happens.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Historical news and odd events this week - 1.26.2007.1
In the past week in history:
Dr. Daniel Hale Williams opened one of the first schools for Black nurses in 1891
Dr James Robert Gladden became the first African American certified orthopedic surgeon in 1949
The 13th Amendment was passed by Congress in 1865
To date there continues to be no response from any Presidential candidate that has been sent a letter from me. Considering the first letter was sent in December 2006, I begin to wonder why. The link for all the letters sent to candidates can be seen above.
Well the weird items of the week have quite a range this week. One of the first thinks is the extreme luck of a diver in Australia. Many of us have heard of how deadly a shark attack may be. The movie Jaws helped drive home a fear of Great White sharks, which is partially deserved. For those that survive an attack there is usually dismemberment and severe trauma, but I have never heard of anyone surviving an attack where their head was swallowed by a shark. That is until now.
Mr. Eric Nerhus has a singular ‘privilege’ to have had a Great White shark virtually gobble him up head first and survive. He has lots of wounds on his chest, which was protected by a lead diving vest and the only reason for his survival. I can’t imagine a luckier man. I’d suggest that Mr. Nerhus take a trip to Vegas, luck like his might win him quite a bit. Even without going though he has won the best deal possible, living to see another day. I’d suggest laying off diving for a bit though.
Looking overseas in the other direction I found out that the Dutch are at it again. I think there have been several items that have originated from the Netherlands, and this one is as odd as any. It seems that a man has officially gotten a driver’s license with him pictured as the Joker, from Batman comic book fame. While he was trying to prove a point on security, similar to what a couple of guys from California (I think) did late last year here, I am at a loss on what the workers at the Dutch DMV were thinking. Then again it would seem the Netherlands has a DMV that is no less inefficient and clueless than those found in America. Really scary when you think about it, in a world filled with terrorist threats and cowardly suicide bombing attacks. By the way, watch out for D.C. Comics, they get touchy about the trademark of one of their best villains ever.
In Belgium I am perplexed. It seems that an iguana, named Mozart, who had Viagra it seems, has had an erection for a week now. Vet’s are so concerned by this extended problem [my puns getting better?] that they are going to amputate the penis. That sucks for Mozart. I would feel bad for him [just like I felt horrible when my Chow was fixed, poor guy] but he does have a spare penis. I’m guessing the second is not being effected as the first has been.
But my real question is, how and why did Mozart get Viagra in the first place? Now I could be wrong, I am lead to believe Mozart got the drug due to the title of the article. If the title does in fact match the story, how did Mozart get a prescription? Or get the drug in his system? If it was just joke, it was cruel. If it was an accident, I’m not sure how pills are left around for him to get to. If anyone from Belgium knows about this [yes I have readers there too] please let me know what is going on.
Lastly, in the overseas items, London has really impressed me with the most absurd real estate offer I have ever heard of. While I consider a condo one of the more silly ideas people do, there is an apartment that just proves that some people have too much money. The flat [what an apartment is called there] is going for $335,000 dollars. Now by Manhattan rates it’s a tiny price (I’ve met several people that own million dollar + condo’s, and heard of many for much more) but seems to match the stature of the place. The condo is 77 square feet, or about $4340 a square foot. Yes, it’s more than tiny. I recall a friend that rented a room in off-campus housing that was slightly larger and thy only paid $250 a month in rent. And he at least had heat. If you would like heat or electricity you need to spend another roughly $60,000. All this just to say you live in a ritzy (or tony as I believe it’s said) neighborhood. I’ll say it again, some people have too much money.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Dr. Daniel Hale Williams opened one of the first schools for Black nurses in 1891
Dr James Robert Gladden became the first African American certified orthopedic surgeon in 1949
The 13th Amendment was passed by Congress in 1865
To date there continues to be no response from any Presidential candidate that has been sent a letter from me. Considering the first letter was sent in December 2006, I begin to wonder why. The link for all the letters sent to candidates can be seen above.
Well the weird items of the week have quite a range this week. One of the first thinks is the extreme luck of a diver in Australia. Many of us have heard of how deadly a shark attack may be. The movie Jaws helped drive home a fear of Great White sharks, which is partially deserved. For those that survive an attack there is usually dismemberment and severe trauma, but I have never heard of anyone surviving an attack where their head was swallowed by a shark. That is until now.
Mr. Eric Nerhus has a singular ‘privilege’ to have had a Great White shark virtually gobble him up head first and survive. He has lots of wounds on his chest, which was protected by a lead diving vest and the only reason for his survival. I can’t imagine a luckier man. I’d suggest that Mr. Nerhus take a trip to Vegas, luck like his might win him quite a bit. Even without going though he has won the best deal possible, living to see another day. I’d suggest laying off diving for a bit though.
Looking overseas in the other direction I found out that the Dutch are at it again. I think there have been several items that have originated from the Netherlands, and this one is as odd as any. It seems that a man has officially gotten a driver’s license with him pictured as the Joker, from Batman comic book fame. While he was trying to prove a point on security, similar to what a couple of guys from California (I think) did late last year here, I am at a loss on what the workers at the Dutch DMV were thinking. Then again it would seem the Netherlands has a DMV that is no less inefficient and clueless than those found in America. Really scary when you think about it, in a world filled with terrorist threats and cowardly suicide bombing attacks. By the way, watch out for D.C. Comics, they get touchy about the trademark of one of their best villains ever.
In Belgium I am perplexed. It seems that an iguana, named Mozart, who had Viagra it seems, has had an erection for a week now. Vet’s are so concerned by this extended problem [my puns getting better?] that they are going to amputate the penis. That sucks for Mozart. I would feel bad for him [just like I felt horrible when my Chow was fixed, poor guy] but he does have a spare penis. I’m guessing the second is not being effected as the first has been.
But my real question is, how and why did Mozart get Viagra in the first place? Now I could be wrong, I am lead to believe Mozart got the drug due to the title of the article. If the title does in fact match the story, how did Mozart get a prescription? Or get the drug in his system? If it was just joke, it was cruel. If it was an accident, I’m not sure how pills are left around for him to get to. If anyone from Belgium knows about this [yes I have readers there too] please let me know what is going on.
Lastly, in the overseas items, London has really impressed me with the most absurd real estate offer I have ever heard of. While I consider a condo one of the more silly ideas people do, there is an apartment that just proves that some people have too much money. The flat [what an apartment is called there] is going for $335,000 dollars. Now by Manhattan rates it’s a tiny price (I’ve met several people that own million dollar + condo’s, and heard of many for much more) but seems to match the stature of the place. The condo is 77 square feet, or about $4340 a square foot. Yes, it’s more than tiny. I recall a friend that rented a room in off-campus housing that was slightly larger and thy only paid $250 a month in rent. And he at least had heat. If you would like heat or electricity you need to spend another roughly $60,000. All this just to say you live in a ritzy (or tony as I believe it’s said) neighborhood. I’ll say it again, some people have too much money.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Hollywood movie bias, the reality - 1.25.2007.1
Sometimes you have to wonder what people are thinking. I mean that I can see a point being made, yet I think the extreme view being posed is just gratuitous. If you wonder what I am referring to, it’s a new report by the Islamic Human Rights Commission in Britain on how movies portray Muslims.
I will give this report the fact that since 9/11 Muslims are the ‘bad guy’ choice du jour. More than any other group they are the favored group to be seen losing to the good guys and that of course is due to the current political and social environment in the world. I can see how that can annoy the tens of millions of Muslims that live quiet lives, being productive citizens of their respective countries.
While the emphasis is on Muslims, today, there continues to be the re-enforcement of the African American as a negative image in every medium in America. Long before Arabs and Muslims were picked on, Black Americans (particularly males) were the only pimps, dealers, petty criminals and poor in movies. While Black Americans were the first minorities to be included in American films, the roles were even worse with portrayals as slaves or complete caricatures. This negative image is no less consistent now, with 60% of all images in news of poverty or lack of education or violence being matched with images of Black Americans.
While I admit this is not a fact I have seen quoted, it is something that is often commented on. Some may recall the Mr. Carlos Mencia Comedy Central episode that provided 2 news reports focusing on images of people in waist deep water right after Hurricane Katrina. One image had a Black American in holding a bad, the caption accusing him of being a looter. The other image had 2 White Americans in similar water each holding a bag, the caption reading that they were trying to scrounge for food. Neither image included any background buildings or any indication that either of the people had food or goods in their bags. Some may recall my post where Yahoo News placed an image of Mr. Chris Rock along side a completely unrelated article dealing with investigation by the government on the mob. [Chris Rock, Andy Garcia, M:I3 and Snoop Dogg] The people in the article were all white. Watch the evening news and any time there is a mention of unemployment, welfare, government aide, and similar stories you will see a predominance of images of Black Americans – regardless of where in the nation you live or the fact that since African Americans only make up ~14% of the nation it’s impossible for us to be the only, or even major, cause or recipients of these items.
So I can appreciate the feeling by Muslims that it is now their turn on the negative public image machine that is Hollywood, movies and other media. Still to carry the extreme to say that movies such as Disney’s Aladdin were negative is silly in my opinion. They are shooting themselves in their own foot with such an accusation. All the characters in that movie were Arabic, and yes the architecture, timeframe, and clothing indicate they are all Muslim. But I cannot agree that this movie was done in bad faith. Equally off-base to me is the claim that Raiders of the Lost Ark made a similar negative portrayal. As I recall one of the leading supports is an Egyptian Arab character, and a good guy. Virtually all the bad guys are White and Nazi’s. Perhaps I am naïve, but I do not recall any stereotypes that were not balanced by other characters that were neutral if not positive. And any negative images were minor compared to the positive main characters in both movies.
American media and Hollywood in particular, love to portray all minorities in a horrible light. That is a fact. Minorities are excluded from having major impact in front of and behind the camera to this day, though it is incredibly slowly changing. Addressing the fact of this imbalance, and its consequences, is a positive for change. To go to an extreme, claiming insult where none was seen for literally decades does not help but hurt such a cause.
Muslims should not be unfairly judged. Neither should Black Americans, Latino/Hispanic Americans and other minorities. But at the same time it should be noted that some leeway must be given when a nation is at war. Much as the Germans, Italians, Japanese and others have been made objects of anger for a time during conflict against America so will be any other group. That’s just human nature. Rather than place a blanket on all things ever done, seek the positives and note the negatives. Your cause will be better helped I think.
This is what I think, what do you think?
I will give this report the fact that since 9/11 Muslims are the ‘bad guy’ choice du jour. More than any other group they are the favored group to be seen losing to the good guys and that of course is due to the current political and social environment in the world. I can see how that can annoy the tens of millions of Muslims that live quiet lives, being productive citizens of their respective countries.
While the emphasis is on Muslims, today, there continues to be the re-enforcement of the African American as a negative image in every medium in America. Long before Arabs and Muslims were picked on, Black Americans (particularly males) were the only pimps, dealers, petty criminals and poor in movies. While Black Americans were the first minorities to be included in American films, the roles were even worse with portrayals as slaves or complete caricatures. This negative image is no less consistent now, with 60% of all images in news of poverty or lack of education or violence being matched with images of Black Americans.
While I admit this is not a fact I have seen quoted, it is something that is often commented on. Some may recall the Mr. Carlos Mencia Comedy Central episode that provided 2 news reports focusing on images of people in waist deep water right after Hurricane Katrina. One image had a Black American in holding a bad, the caption accusing him of being a looter. The other image had 2 White Americans in similar water each holding a bag, the caption reading that they were trying to scrounge for food. Neither image included any background buildings or any indication that either of the people had food or goods in their bags. Some may recall my post where Yahoo News placed an image of Mr. Chris Rock along side a completely unrelated article dealing with investigation by the government on the mob. [Chris Rock, Andy Garcia, M:I3 and Snoop Dogg] The people in the article were all white. Watch the evening news and any time there is a mention of unemployment, welfare, government aide, and similar stories you will see a predominance of images of Black Americans – regardless of where in the nation you live or the fact that since African Americans only make up ~14% of the nation it’s impossible for us to be the only, or even major, cause or recipients of these items.
So I can appreciate the feeling by Muslims that it is now their turn on the negative public image machine that is Hollywood, movies and other media. Still to carry the extreme to say that movies such as Disney’s Aladdin were negative is silly in my opinion. They are shooting themselves in their own foot with such an accusation. All the characters in that movie were Arabic, and yes the architecture, timeframe, and clothing indicate they are all Muslim. But I cannot agree that this movie was done in bad faith. Equally off-base to me is the claim that Raiders of the Lost Ark made a similar negative portrayal. As I recall one of the leading supports is an Egyptian Arab character, and a good guy. Virtually all the bad guys are White and Nazi’s. Perhaps I am naïve, but I do not recall any stereotypes that were not balanced by other characters that were neutral if not positive. And any negative images were minor compared to the positive main characters in both movies.
American media and Hollywood in particular, love to portray all minorities in a horrible light. That is a fact. Minorities are excluded from having major impact in front of and behind the camera to this day, though it is incredibly slowly changing. Addressing the fact of this imbalance, and its consequences, is a positive for change. To go to an extreme, claiming insult where none was seen for literally decades does not help but hurt such a cause.
Muslims should not be unfairly judged. Neither should Black Americans, Latino/Hispanic Americans and other minorities. But at the same time it should be noted that some leeway must be given when a nation is at war. Much as the Germans, Italians, Japanese and others have been made objects of anger for a time during conflict against America so will be any other group. That’s just human nature. Rather than place a blanket on all things ever done, seek the positives and note the negatives. Your cause will be better helped I think.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Historically bad Oscar omission, great Razzie choices - 1.23.2007.1
Ok, I’m shocked. This took me completely by surprise. Whoever is on the nominating committee for the Oscar’s should be checked for drug use, in my opinion they are acting like they are on crack. Perhaps that’s too harsh but I still think the dramatic move away from tradition is severely unwarranted. Of the few historic moments in Oscar history, this is not the one most might have hoped for.
I’m speaking about the omission of Dreamgirls from the Best Picture category. I’d love to hear the justification for this. In 79 years, the total time Oscar Awards have been around, there has never been a leading nominee not also being in Best Picture. It’s more than an a snub its an insult. Perhaps those that chose felt a Golden Globe win was enough, or that Mr. Martin Scorsese has earned a win. I would hate to think it was a remnant of the ‘old boys club’ mentality.
With 8 nominations I think Dreamgirls deserves the nomination. I am not shocked with the nominations of Mr. Eddie Murphy and Ms. Jennifer Hudson. I had picked them earlier in the month to win the Screen Actors Awards and the Globes. I feel Mr. Murphy will get the win, as he has had many films over the years and most have been well liked. In addition it’s time that recognition be given to his ability, as I mentioned in December he has played more characters in a single film more times than any other actor to my knowledge. Mr. Murphy’s current portrayal is just the feather in a cap of a career filled with memorable roles.
Sadly, I don’t think Ms. Hudson will win for the same reason that Mr. Scorsese, Mr. Murphy and Mr. Forest Whitaker will win. They all have a body of work with many powerful performances behind them. Mr. Jamie Foxx has already won, deservedly for Ray, and Mr. Will Smith has been nominated before.
I will say that it is interesting to note how many deserving African American actors are getting noticed for the roles they should be noticed for, since the win by Mr. Denzel Washington. After decades of being ignored, en masse, it’s refreshing to see the change. Still I think Dreamgirls is being affected by the same thing that hit Mr. Spike Lee’s Malcolm X, it’s a subject the Academy doesn’t want to look at.
On the other side of the movie industry, there are the Razzie Awards. How they were able to whittle down the numerous losers from last year it’s hard to say. One pick I had thankfully forgotten was Little Man. Mr. Keenen Ivory Wayans is a great director, and his comedic instinct is usually on the mark. Still there is only so much that can be done with material like the stuff of that movie. Then again it was a far better film than the forgettable Basic Instinct 2.
But it was a bad year for big names overall. Many of the normally steady actors made choices I have to imagine were just for the money being offered. Mr. Robin Williams, Mr. Tim Allen, Mr. Nicolas Cage all had films that just didn’t match up to the films they usually work in. Well anyone can make a mistake from time to time. Of course the people greenlighting films like Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector, The Shaggy Dog (remake), and the multitude of needless sub-par remakes [mentioned in my recap of the worst films of 2006] get it wrong far too often. There should be Razzie’s for worst greenlight, most remakes okayed without any idea what the original was, and most likely to buy an ice cube in Alaska during a snowstorm in winter (executives and movie companies only).
This is what I think, what do you think?
I’m speaking about the omission of Dreamgirls from the Best Picture category. I’d love to hear the justification for this. In 79 years, the total time Oscar Awards have been around, there has never been a leading nominee not also being in Best Picture. It’s more than an a snub its an insult. Perhaps those that chose felt a Golden Globe win was enough, or that Mr. Martin Scorsese has earned a win. I would hate to think it was a remnant of the ‘old boys club’ mentality.
With 8 nominations I think Dreamgirls deserves the nomination. I am not shocked with the nominations of Mr. Eddie Murphy and Ms. Jennifer Hudson. I had picked them earlier in the month to win the Screen Actors Awards and the Globes. I feel Mr. Murphy will get the win, as he has had many films over the years and most have been well liked. In addition it’s time that recognition be given to his ability, as I mentioned in December he has played more characters in a single film more times than any other actor to my knowledge. Mr. Murphy’s current portrayal is just the feather in a cap of a career filled with memorable roles.
Sadly, I don’t think Ms. Hudson will win for the same reason that Mr. Scorsese, Mr. Murphy and Mr. Forest Whitaker will win. They all have a body of work with many powerful performances behind them. Mr. Jamie Foxx has already won, deservedly for Ray, and Mr. Will Smith has been nominated before.
I will say that it is interesting to note how many deserving African American actors are getting noticed for the roles they should be noticed for, since the win by Mr. Denzel Washington. After decades of being ignored, en masse, it’s refreshing to see the change. Still I think Dreamgirls is being affected by the same thing that hit Mr. Spike Lee’s Malcolm X, it’s a subject the Academy doesn’t want to look at.
On the other side of the movie industry, there are the Razzie Awards. How they were able to whittle down the numerous losers from last year it’s hard to say. One pick I had thankfully forgotten was Little Man. Mr. Keenen Ivory Wayans is a great director, and his comedic instinct is usually on the mark. Still there is only so much that can be done with material like the stuff of that movie. Then again it was a far better film than the forgettable Basic Instinct 2.
But it was a bad year for big names overall. Many of the normally steady actors made choices I have to imagine were just for the money being offered. Mr. Robin Williams, Mr. Tim Allen, Mr. Nicolas Cage all had films that just didn’t match up to the films they usually work in. Well anyone can make a mistake from time to time. Of course the people greenlighting films like Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector, The Shaggy Dog (remake), and the multitude of needless sub-par remakes [mentioned in my recap of the worst films of 2006] get it wrong far too often. There should be Razzie’s for worst greenlight, most remakes okayed without any idea what the original was, and most likely to buy an ice cube in Alaska during a snowstorm in winter (executives and movie companies only).
This is what I think, what do you think?
Monday, January 22, 2007
Repost of Letter to Senator Obama - 1.22.2007.1
This is a repost of the letter sent to Senator Obama, found orginally at Vass. Any response from the Senator will be posted unaltered when received.
January 22, 2007
Dear Senator Obama,
I am contacting you today as part of an ongoing series of letters that I am sending to many of those that are planning to run for President of the United States. To date I have written letters to Senator Clinton, Mr. John Edwards, and Mr. Mitt Romney.
I am the author/writer of several blog sites including Black Entertainment USA (www.blackentertainmentblog.com). My letter to you, as well as any response from you will be posted on these sites without alteration.
Senator Obama I am aware that you are a junior Senator, having served 2 years at this time, representing Illinois. As I am from New York I am not familiar with the platforms you were elected for. What was the main issue that you campaigned on, and what progress have you made in attaining that? What laws have you helped to pass, or prevented from passing, that have directly benefited your constituents and African Americans in general?
As a fellow African American I’m sure you are aware that there are several issues that are of great impact to the Black community. One of the most important may be the issue of education. What have you done to improve the number of African Americans that finish high school and/or seek higher education? If you were to be elected President, what plan would you follow that will improve the education system in America?
In terms of your own education I ask a question that has recently been in the news. It has been stated that during the 4 years in Jakarta you had attended a Madrasa. I wonder if you feel this has any influence on the education you received, or more importantly do you believe that having lived and studied overseas provided you any benefit that your peers may not have had?
It has also been stated that you are a smoker. If this is true do you believe that has any effect on your views on healthcare? In addition how do you feel about the current trend to leave businesses without a choice and disallow smoking? Do you believe that the smoking ban is fair to businesses, and does it make sense to have a ban while also allowing adult citizens to purchase cigarettes?
As a lawyer that worked on civil rights issues, what do you believe you can do, or are doing currently, to improve the rights of African Americans and Latino/Hispanic Americans or any other people of color in this nation? What do you feel is the largest obstacle and what plan do you have to remove it?
In terms of national healthcare, do you agree with the push for a national healthcare system? If you do how would you have this program funded? What would you do to motivate institutions and individuals to seek out new innovations with the profit motive removed? How would you ensure that a national program would not function in the same manner most feel other government institutions do, such as the education system (which most feel is a failure)?
What role, if any, do you feel religion plays in the government? Do you believe that the fact you have never served in the Armed Forces would have any effect on your ability to perform as Commander-and-Chief?
Speaking of the Armed Forces, at this time there is a general feeling that the war in Iraq is going badly. President Bush has just announced a plan that would elevate the number of troops serving in Iraq. The democratic party is generally opposed to this plan. What exact alternative would you implement in place of this current plan, and what plan would you establish to ensure the safety of Americans if Iraq becomes more unstable (thus promoting terrorist attacks on America)?
Do you feel that the fact you have little experience in the Senate, or with dealing with international politics, is a hindrance to your ability to act as President and if not why?
Recently there has been a growing apprehension among some in the nation about the number of immigrant that are allowed into the nation for non-European nations (as per Rep. Goode). How do you feel about this? Also there is a strong debate on what to do about the large numbers of illegal immigrants. What plan do you have to deal with this issue?
I thank you for taking the time to read and to respond to this letter. As I stated earlier this will be posted on several sites, particularly Black Entertainment USA (at the address noted above).
Sincerely,
Michael Vass
President – M V Consulting, Inc.
Author – Black Entertainment USA and Vass
info@blackentertainmentblog.com
January 22, 2007
Dear Senator Obama,
I am contacting you today as part of an ongoing series of letters that I am sending to many of those that are planning to run for President of the United States. To date I have written letters to Senator Clinton, Mr. John Edwards, and Mr. Mitt Romney.
I am the author/writer of several blog sites including Black Entertainment USA (www.blackentertainmentblog.com). My letter to you, as well as any response from you will be posted on these sites without alteration.
Senator Obama I am aware that you are a junior Senator, having served 2 years at this time, representing Illinois. As I am from New York I am not familiar with the platforms you were elected for. What was the main issue that you campaigned on, and what progress have you made in attaining that? What laws have you helped to pass, or prevented from passing, that have directly benefited your constituents and African Americans in general?
As a fellow African American I’m sure you are aware that there are several issues that are of great impact to the Black community. One of the most important may be the issue of education. What have you done to improve the number of African Americans that finish high school and/or seek higher education? If you were to be elected President, what plan would you follow that will improve the education system in America?
In terms of your own education I ask a question that has recently been in the news. It has been stated that during the 4 years in Jakarta you had attended a Madrasa. I wonder if you feel this has any influence on the education you received, or more importantly do you believe that having lived and studied overseas provided you any benefit that your peers may not have had?
It has also been stated that you are a smoker. If this is true do you believe that has any effect on your views on healthcare? In addition how do you feel about the current trend to leave businesses without a choice and disallow smoking? Do you believe that the smoking ban is fair to businesses, and does it make sense to have a ban while also allowing adult citizens to purchase cigarettes?
As a lawyer that worked on civil rights issues, what do you believe you can do, or are doing currently, to improve the rights of African Americans and Latino/Hispanic Americans or any other people of color in this nation? What do you feel is the largest obstacle and what plan do you have to remove it?
In terms of national healthcare, do you agree with the push for a national healthcare system? If you do how would you have this program funded? What would you do to motivate institutions and individuals to seek out new innovations with the profit motive removed? How would you ensure that a national program would not function in the same manner most feel other government institutions do, such as the education system (which most feel is a failure)?
What role, if any, do you feel religion plays in the government? Do you believe that the fact you have never served in the Armed Forces would have any effect on your ability to perform as Commander-and-Chief?
Speaking of the Armed Forces, at this time there is a general feeling that the war in Iraq is going badly. President Bush has just announced a plan that would elevate the number of troops serving in Iraq. The democratic party is generally opposed to this plan. What exact alternative would you implement in place of this current plan, and what plan would you establish to ensure the safety of Americans if Iraq becomes more unstable (thus promoting terrorist attacks on America)?
Do you feel that the fact you have little experience in the Senate, or with dealing with international politics, is a hindrance to your ability to act as President and if not why?
Recently there has been a growing apprehension among some in the nation about the number of immigrant that are allowed into the nation for non-European nations (as per Rep. Goode). How do you feel about this? Also there is a strong debate on what to do about the large numbers of illegal immigrants. What plan do you have to deal with this issue?
I thank you for taking the time to read and to respond to this letter. As I stated earlier this will be posted on several sites, particularly Black Entertainment USA (at the address noted above).
Sincerely,
Michael Vass
President – M V Consulting, Inc.
Author – Black Entertainment USA and Vass
info@blackentertainmentblog.com
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Remakes, I told you so - 1.20.2007.2
Well don’t say I didn’t warn you. Reviews are out for the re-made movie, The Hitcher. Without any shock I see that it is almost universally panned. I knew it when I first mentioned from the promo shots what I thought of the movie. The villain is far less intimidating than Mr. Rutger Hauer’s Ryder. The protagonist is now the woman (of course) and even less believable that Mr. C. Thomas Howell’s unlucky lead. Gore has replaced actual plot or interesting action. Like most of the re-makes in recent time this only serves to motivate a trip to Blockbuster for the best version.
Of course there are even new lows in the world of re-makes. It seems that the various advertising companies have lost any hope of new ideas, or at least the one that made this decision. I’m speaking of the new Orville Redinbocker Popcorn commercials. For those that don’t know, there was a real man by this name. He did own the company, and the picture on packages is his. He did many commercials for his company in the 80’s, until he died.
But dead is only a temporary setback for ad creators without vision and on a deadline. There are now commercials that have brought back a computer enhanced version of Mr. Redinbocker. That’s just sad. It says something about the company and the ad guys, and in my opinion that’s not a good thing. One thing for sure, I won’t buy their product. If they can’t respect the dead, nor their own company’s founder I have doubts on what they think of the living. Using a corpse to hock their goods is just low class, and the bottom of the barrel in my opinion. Maybe you disagree, or didn’t know. My bet is that they are counting on the fact that the youth of today have no idea that the man existed. I hope Wendy’s doesn’t follow on this poor taste bandwagon.
In more hopeful thoughts the movie Smokin Aces seems good. While it is a January film (usually not a good sign) and it does have 2 hip-hop entertainers [Ms. Alicia Keys and Common] in it (incredibly bad sign) I hope it will be good. Mr. Jeremy Piven is quite an actor, as is Mr. Ryan Reynolds, Mr. Ray Liotta, and Mr. Andy Garcia. It looks to be stylish, with some type of plot and really good music and effects. Either way I will check it out. I might get surprised and the hip-hop wanna-be actors may be good, or at least have incredibly small roles if they aren’t. Anyone want to take odds on their performances?
This is what I think, what do you think?
Of course there are even new lows in the world of re-makes. It seems that the various advertising companies have lost any hope of new ideas, or at least the one that made this decision. I’m speaking of the new Orville Redinbocker Popcorn commercials. For those that don’t know, there was a real man by this name. He did own the company, and the picture on packages is his. He did many commercials for his company in the 80’s, until he died.
But dead is only a temporary setback for ad creators without vision and on a deadline. There are now commercials that have brought back a computer enhanced version of Mr. Redinbocker. That’s just sad. It says something about the company and the ad guys, and in my opinion that’s not a good thing. One thing for sure, I won’t buy their product. If they can’t respect the dead, nor their own company’s founder I have doubts on what they think of the living. Using a corpse to hock their goods is just low class, and the bottom of the barrel in my opinion. Maybe you disagree, or didn’t know. My bet is that they are counting on the fact that the youth of today have no idea that the man existed. I hope Wendy’s doesn’t follow on this poor taste bandwagon.
In more hopeful thoughts the movie Smokin Aces seems good. While it is a January film (usually not a good sign) and it does have 2 hip-hop entertainers [Ms. Alicia Keys and Common] in it (incredibly bad sign) I hope it will be good. Mr. Jeremy Piven is quite an actor, as is Mr. Ryan Reynolds, Mr. Ray Liotta, and Mr. Andy Garcia. It looks to be stylish, with some type of plot and really good music and effects. Either way I will check it out. I might get surprised and the hip-hop wanna-be actors may be good, or at least have incredibly small roles if they aren’t. Anyone want to take odds on their performances?
This is what I think, what do you think?
Booty augmentation, what's next - 1.20.2007.1
There was some news yesterday that caught my attention. It was reported on Mr. Neil Cavuto’s show on Fox News at 4:50pm that there is a new trend in plastic surgery. The trend, which is like wildfire now, is for augmentation of the buttocks. Bigger and firmer butts are the rage, and plastic or cosmetic surgery is the answer that many are using to fill out those designer jeans.
Now this is kind of sad. Spending $25,000 dollars to make your bottom emulate Beyonce or Mrs. Jennifer Lopez is just a waste of money. Sure there are millions of women that could use the improvement, but it just seems like a waste of money. It also makes me feel a little ill thinking of what that could feel like. There’s no silicon in this process, they use body fat from the stomach it seems. According to the experts discussion of the process and the number of procedures a week he is doing (3) I am led to believe that this is being done for ‘larger’ people. I say people because men are getting this done as well, though in far fewer numbers, I say larger because of the liposuction that is involved. Of course the age range on this is like breast augmentation going from young women to those in their 60’s.
Listening to this bit of news I could not help but think that this is yet another example of White America trying to be Black, but not admitting it. Seriously, it’s just one more example. Madonna never inspired anyone to get a butt like hers. Cher may have helped promote cosmetic surgery (debatable) but no one is out trying to emulate her. Yet ‘J-Lo’ and Beyonce definitely have as has the desire to be called ‘bootylicious.’ How many billions are spent each year to get a tan, whether it’s real or from a bottle? How far do people travel to get to a beach or other tropical locations just to get a touch of deeper color to the skin.
Think of the language used sometimes. How many women speak of wanting a “tall dark handsome” man? Or the compliment for having a “healthy glow” because they have a tan. These are just a few.
Then I must ponder how there are so many kids today that want to, safely, live the “thug” “ghettofabulous” life proffered by rappers. I think of the fact that rap, hip hop and hip hop clothing could never make as much money as they do without the cross-cultural buying makes a statement. Listening to the slang and quasi-uneducated eubonics of non-African Americans highlights the undercurrent of admiration.
Still with all these various statements, actions and emulation there is the fear of Black Americans. Perhaps fear is too strong, but I think its accurate. I know it’s a generalized statement. Many do not isolate or discriminate. Yet the American culture does find that having too much color is bad. You can have Beyonce’s butt, wear Apple Bottom Jeans, listen to Jay – Z and Snoop Dogg on your Ipod and speak like you have a third grade education if you do it when you’re not on duty at work as a doctor (for example) if you are White and there is no consequence. But I can be in a suit, speak perfect English, prefer to listen to Rock and Roll, don’t own an Ipod, and own my own businesses and people think I’m a drug dealer, or walk up to me and speak to me about how wearing a suit must “help me pick up hoes.”
It’s just an observation. Some of you may have seen the same things, wondered the same thoughts. What does it mean? I don’t know. But I do find it ironic that there is this dichotomy in the society. I wonder what cosmetic surgery will be next?
This is what I think, what do you think?
Now this is kind of sad. Spending $25,000 dollars to make your bottom emulate Beyonce or Mrs. Jennifer Lopez is just a waste of money. Sure there are millions of women that could use the improvement, but it just seems like a waste of money. It also makes me feel a little ill thinking of what that could feel like. There’s no silicon in this process, they use body fat from the stomach it seems. According to the experts discussion of the process and the number of procedures a week he is doing (3) I am led to believe that this is being done for ‘larger’ people. I say people because men are getting this done as well, though in far fewer numbers, I say larger because of the liposuction that is involved. Of course the age range on this is like breast augmentation going from young women to those in their 60’s.
Listening to this bit of news I could not help but think that this is yet another example of White America trying to be Black, but not admitting it. Seriously, it’s just one more example. Madonna never inspired anyone to get a butt like hers. Cher may have helped promote cosmetic surgery (debatable) but no one is out trying to emulate her. Yet ‘J-Lo’ and Beyonce definitely have as has the desire to be called ‘bootylicious.’ How many billions are spent each year to get a tan, whether it’s real or from a bottle? How far do people travel to get to a beach or other tropical locations just to get a touch of deeper color to the skin.
Think of the language used sometimes. How many women speak of wanting a “tall dark handsome” man? Or the compliment for having a “healthy glow” because they have a tan. These are just a few.
Then I must ponder how there are so many kids today that want to, safely, live the “thug” “ghettofabulous” life proffered by rappers. I think of the fact that rap, hip hop and hip hop clothing could never make as much money as they do without the cross-cultural buying makes a statement. Listening to the slang and quasi-uneducated eubonics of non-African Americans highlights the undercurrent of admiration.
Still with all these various statements, actions and emulation there is the fear of Black Americans. Perhaps fear is too strong, but I think its accurate. I know it’s a generalized statement. Many do not isolate or discriminate. Yet the American culture does find that having too much color is bad. You can have Beyonce’s butt, wear Apple Bottom Jeans, listen to Jay – Z and Snoop Dogg on your Ipod and speak like you have a third grade education if you do it when you’re not on duty at work as a doctor (for example) if you are White and there is no consequence. But I can be in a suit, speak perfect English, prefer to listen to Rock and Roll, don’t own an Ipod, and own my own businesses and people think I’m a drug dealer, or walk up to me and speak to me about how wearing a suit must “help me pick up hoes.”
It’s just an observation. Some of you may have seen the same things, wondered the same thoughts. What does it mean? I don’t know. But I do find it ironic that there is this dichotomy in the society. I wonder what cosmetic surgery will be next?
This is what I think, what do you think?
Friday, January 19, 2007
Golden Globes, Sundance, and Poker - 1.19.2007.1
So here are the events of the week, I have a new page just for Valentine’s day. Click on the heart and you may see something your sweetheart will enjoy. Go ahead and check it out. My other new section deals with the 2008 election and the people that would run for the Presidency. I need your support on this. Let’s get them to respond to more than just major donors and their political parties on their platforms. Check the link above, or in the sitemap for more.
As for the calendar : Mr Muhammad Ali was born on the 17th in 1942, Dr. Daniel Hale Williams was born on the 18th in 1856 – he was the first to do a successful open heart surgery.
One of the first things I want to mention is that I’m glad to see that Ms. Jennifer Hudson, Mr. Eddie Murphy, Mr. Forest Whitaker, Mr. Guillermo Del Toro, and the movies Dreamgirls and Pan’s Labyrinth have all been recognized. Each won a Golden Globe, which is a strong indication of where the Oscar’s will go. I would love to see each of these individuals, and the respective movies, win Oscar’s. It would be a sweet feather in their cap for each of them. There is no question of ability here, they deserve it. Let’s hope that the Oscar’s infamously rumored biases are put on hold and they get it right. But considering how the Oscar’s work, I doubt if more than one person in the above mentioned group will win anything. [I’ll make a guess and say it will be Ms. Hudson. While the Oscar’s rarely give the award to a new actor/actress I think they want the attention that giving it to an ex-Idol participant will generate.]
In reference to the comments by Mr. Robert Redford (a fantastic actor and solid director) at the Sundance Film Festival, I will make a brief comment. I will simply mention that equally famous, respected, qualified, talented individuals in the entertainment industry that are republican exist and I doubt they feel as he does. [Some of those people include – Mr. Denzel Washington, Mr. Jerome Bettis, Mr. Shaquille O’Neal, Mr. David Robinson, Mr. Bo Jackson, Mr. Reggie White, Mr. Tiger Woods, Mr. Karl Malone, Mr. John Hughes, Mr. Frank Capra, Mr. Bruce Willis, Mr. Quentin Tarantino and more.] I will simply state that there is more than one way to look at what the President has done, failures and missteps inclusive, and to request an apology is unwarranted. To ask it on behalf of the nation is arrogant. I don’t want an apology, nor do I wish Mr. Redford to ask for one on my behalf.
And as for the odd news going into the weekend there is the question of Poker. Is poker a game of chance or skill? It doesn’t seem too hard to figure it out. No matter how skilled you may be, it all depends on the cards you draw right? Well it’s not that simple in East London. It is a question that the courts there will be ruling on. The reason is that a private club was hosting poker games, and in England that is illegal without a gambling license. The government believes that any game of chance, which they include poker in, must be licensed. The owner of the club obviously disagrees.
This should take no time at all. It’s a silly matter that I think must be seen as a waste of the courts time. And it’s pretty simple to figure out. What are the odds of getting 4 of a kind, in a game of say 5 people. Now figure out the odds for a skilled player – the best in the world. Do the odds improve? Since they won’t the risk involved is random and thus it’s a game of chance. But that’s one American’s view. I’m sure our British cousins will work out the details and get to the same point, it just needs to be done with a stiff upper lip and the proper manners. [That’s supposed to be a joke, I realize I’m not a comedian so don’t send me letters about the lack of humor.]
This is what I think, what do you think?
As for the calendar : Mr Muhammad Ali was born on the 17th in 1942, Dr. Daniel Hale Williams was born on the 18th in 1856 – he was the first to do a successful open heart surgery.
One of the first things I want to mention is that I’m glad to see that Ms. Jennifer Hudson, Mr. Eddie Murphy, Mr. Forest Whitaker, Mr. Guillermo Del Toro, and the movies Dreamgirls and Pan’s Labyrinth have all been recognized. Each won a Golden Globe, which is a strong indication of where the Oscar’s will go. I would love to see each of these individuals, and the respective movies, win Oscar’s. It would be a sweet feather in their cap for each of them. There is no question of ability here, they deserve it. Let’s hope that the Oscar’s infamously rumored biases are put on hold and they get it right. But considering how the Oscar’s work, I doubt if more than one person in the above mentioned group will win anything. [I’ll make a guess and say it will be Ms. Hudson. While the Oscar’s rarely give the award to a new actor/actress I think they want the attention that giving it to an ex-Idol participant will generate.]
In reference to the comments by Mr. Robert Redford (a fantastic actor and solid director) at the Sundance Film Festival, I will make a brief comment. I will simply mention that equally famous, respected, qualified, talented individuals in the entertainment industry that are republican exist and I doubt they feel as he does. [Some of those people include – Mr. Denzel Washington, Mr. Jerome Bettis, Mr. Shaquille O’Neal, Mr. David Robinson, Mr. Bo Jackson, Mr. Reggie White, Mr. Tiger Woods, Mr. Karl Malone, Mr. John Hughes, Mr. Frank Capra, Mr. Bruce Willis, Mr. Quentin Tarantino and more.] I will simply state that there is more than one way to look at what the President has done, failures and missteps inclusive, and to request an apology is unwarranted. To ask it on behalf of the nation is arrogant. I don’t want an apology, nor do I wish Mr. Redford to ask for one on my behalf.
And as for the odd news going into the weekend there is the question of Poker. Is poker a game of chance or skill? It doesn’t seem too hard to figure it out. No matter how skilled you may be, it all depends on the cards you draw right? Well it’s not that simple in East London. It is a question that the courts there will be ruling on. The reason is that a private club was hosting poker games, and in England that is illegal without a gambling license. The government believes that any game of chance, which they include poker in, must be licensed. The owner of the club obviously disagrees.
This should take no time at all. It’s a silly matter that I think must be seen as a waste of the courts time. And it’s pretty simple to figure out. What are the odds of getting 4 of a kind, in a game of say 5 people. Now figure out the odds for a skilled player – the best in the world. Do the odds improve? Since they won’t the risk involved is random and thus it’s a game of chance. But that’s one American’s view. I’m sure our British cousins will work out the details and get to the same point, it just needs to be done with a stiff upper lip and the proper manners. [That’s supposed to be a joke, I realize I’m not a comedian so don’t send me letters about the lack of humor.]
This is what I think, what do you think?
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Belated birthday, Paul Sorvino, and Madonna - 1.18.2007.1
Yesterday was the birthday of The Greatest. No other title or additional words need to be said to describe him. I have no doubt that he is the most famous and loved athlete in the world in the last century, at the least. He has conversed and humbled royalty, while being humble himself. Well at least when he wasn’t at work.
Have you guessed whom I’m speaking of? It’s Mr. Muhammad Ali. He turned 65. Like many of my generation, and those before us, the name conjures an image of a powerful, healthy Black man who’s strength of will seemed to be matched only by the speed of his mind and the abilities he displayed in the boxing ring. Many focus on his boxing abilities, which are no small thing, but it’s only one aspect of the man. His efforts to release the hostages in Iran, his humanitarian work that continues today, the worldwide respect for his actions cannot be limited to so small a space as a ring. Parkinson’s disease and many incredible battles have taken their toll on his body, but friends and family state his mind has never dulled. They say he is happy and enjoying life. I hope that is true. Because The Greatest deserves no less.
In thoughts of another man I respect I want to mention Mr. Paul Sorvino. In news that I have not seen catch any attention, Mr. Sorvino pulled a gun on a man. Well I don’t know if I’d call the other guy a man. Let me explain. The ex-boyfriend of one of Mr. Sorvino’s daughters was threatening to kill her and break into a hotel room she was staying at. Ms. Amanda Sorvino called the police and her father. Mr. Sorvino arrived and he had a gun. No one was shot, no charges against Mr. Sorvino were made. And that’s how it should be. I commend Mr. Sorvino for protecting his child and standing up to a man that also threatened to kill him, allegedly.
That is what fathers should do. That is what a man should do. Especially as opposed to the cowardly and ill-formed actions of this other guy, whom I won’t even bother to mention. This wasn’t some kind of attempt to show off, or draw publicity. It wasn’t some kind of misplaced bravado or self-aggrandizement. The gun wasn’t some accessory or fashion statement. There’s more to being a man than being a ‘baby-daddy’. This might not have been the best example, and it wasn’t intended to be one. Yes it’s an example all the same. And there’s more than a few young boys that need to learn.
As for the next item, I have mixed feelings. While I am glad that the Malawi boy adopted by Madonna will have a great life, I don’t like how and potentially why she adopted him. I don’t like the apparently growing trend of entertainers and celebrities adopting children from 3rd world nations (especially African ones) because of the ease or lack of laws in the process. I’m glad those individual children will live better, though thousands, perhaps millions, of others will not. I’m disturbed that Madonna would suggest anyone should adopt a child on the basis of ease, like it’s online shopping or Ebay. The fact that millions of children in the U.S. could go on without a family due to Madonna suggesting people should go for ease over anything else is troubling.
It further makes me wonder about her motivation. And one has to question the intent. Is Madonna saying that this same child wasn’t worth a bit of extra effort if he had lived in America or another African nation that had formal laws on adoption? Did she make the donation just to ensure the, relative, ease of the process she went through [which I commented on, in a post previously, violates established laws]. Does the process that Madonna has brought to light mean that anyone with enough money deserves to get a child, quickly without any real checks to see if they are mentally stable or a pedophile? And why is Madonna talking and promoting the ease of the process in adopting the boy, instead of about the boy himself? [I didn’t see the David Letterman show she was on so I don’t know if she did]
I don’t know, but this whole event has made me feel unsettled.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Have you guessed whom I’m speaking of? It’s Mr. Muhammad Ali. He turned 65. Like many of my generation, and those before us, the name conjures an image of a powerful, healthy Black man who’s strength of will seemed to be matched only by the speed of his mind and the abilities he displayed in the boxing ring. Many focus on his boxing abilities, which are no small thing, but it’s only one aspect of the man. His efforts to release the hostages in Iran, his humanitarian work that continues today, the worldwide respect for his actions cannot be limited to so small a space as a ring. Parkinson’s disease and many incredible battles have taken their toll on his body, but friends and family state his mind has never dulled. They say he is happy and enjoying life. I hope that is true. Because The Greatest deserves no less.
In thoughts of another man I respect I want to mention Mr. Paul Sorvino. In news that I have not seen catch any attention, Mr. Sorvino pulled a gun on a man. Well I don’t know if I’d call the other guy a man. Let me explain. The ex-boyfriend of one of Mr. Sorvino’s daughters was threatening to kill her and break into a hotel room she was staying at. Ms. Amanda Sorvino called the police and her father. Mr. Sorvino arrived and he had a gun. No one was shot, no charges against Mr. Sorvino were made. And that’s how it should be. I commend Mr. Sorvino for protecting his child and standing up to a man that also threatened to kill him, allegedly.
That is what fathers should do. That is what a man should do. Especially as opposed to the cowardly and ill-formed actions of this other guy, whom I won’t even bother to mention. This wasn’t some kind of attempt to show off, or draw publicity. It wasn’t some kind of misplaced bravado or self-aggrandizement. The gun wasn’t some accessory or fashion statement. There’s more to being a man than being a ‘baby-daddy’. This might not have been the best example, and it wasn’t intended to be one. Yes it’s an example all the same. And there’s more than a few young boys that need to learn.
As for the next item, I have mixed feelings. While I am glad that the Malawi boy adopted by Madonna will have a great life, I don’t like how and potentially why she adopted him. I don’t like the apparently growing trend of entertainers and celebrities adopting children from 3rd world nations (especially African ones) because of the ease or lack of laws in the process. I’m glad those individual children will live better, though thousands, perhaps millions, of others will not. I’m disturbed that Madonna would suggest anyone should adopt a child on the basis of ease, like it’s online shopping or Ebay. The fact that millions of children in the U.S. could go on without a family due to Madonna suggesting people should go for ease over anything else is troubling.
It further makes me wonder about her motivation. And one has to question the intent. Is Madonna saying that this same child wasn’t worth a bit of extra effort if he had lived in America or another African nation that had formal laws on adoption? Did she make the donation just to ensure the, relative, ease of the process she went through [which I commented on, in a post previously, violates established laws]. Does the process that Madonna has brought to light mean that anyone with enough money deserves to get a child, quickly without any real checks to see if they are mentally stable or a pedophile? And why is Madonna talking and promoting the ease of the process in adopting the boy, instead of about the boy himself? [I didn’t see the David Letterman show she was on so I don’t know if she did]
I don’t know, but this whole event has made me feel unsettled.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Repost of letter to Senator Clinton - 1.17.2007.4
This is an exact copy of the letter sent to Senator Clinton, originally posted on my Vass site. All responses from any Presidential candidate will be posted unaltered.
December 16, 2006
Senator Clinton,
I am a citizen, former military, an entrepreneur, and resident of upstate New York. As we approach the 2008 presidential race, more and more of the talking heads on television are commenting that you are the leading hopefully for the Democratic Party. Based on that I would like to ask a few questions.
Before I go any further I must mention that I am the owner of 2 blog sites, and co-author of a third. The site that pertains to this subject the most is the www.mvass.com site. This letter, along with any response I receive, will appear in at least that blog.
If you review the site you will see that I have followed your progress and commented on several actions. While these reviews may be critical, that is due to my desire to promote the best government possible with disclosure to the public that consists of detailed relevant commentary. I invite you to review the site and respond to any comments I have made. My focus is not personal, as I do not know you, and has always centered on the actions or comments of your office and fame.
With the above said, I wonder why should anyone expect that you would run for the Presidency? While many believe that as a female candidate you could cause more women to vote than what is normally found in an election, but that is not a valid reason. To say that you are one of the few Democratic political figures that have name recognition and little negative exposure is also a good thing, but not a reason.
What legislation have you initiated, that has passed, that has benefited those living in NY state and/or this nation? When I say benefited I ask that you demonstrate the actual improvement and not the projected improvement that a study or poll has stated. Obviously any recent legislation (less than 6 months) can’t be expected to have necessarily had an immediate effect.
As a key Democrat I ask, what your party has done for African Americans in the last decade, and more importantly since you have taken office. What legislation has passed that benefits African Americans that was initiated by the Democratic Party since you have gained office? To be fair, what legislation has the Democratic party prevented that would have harmed African Americans (in NY state and/or the nation) and how did the party derive that this legislation was harmful?
What are your positions on the platforms? I have heard several soundbites for multiple politicians and none seem to really mean anything when thought about, at least to me. In the recent mid-term elections many Democrats seemed to have won, in my opinion, on the basis that they were for a change in policy. Yet none seemed to have an answer as to what that new and different policy was or could be. In a soundbite such an answer may work, but that is not a reason to be elected for, especially not presidential candidates if such a choice were up to me.
In addition I ask what are you doing to help small businesses? What are you doing about improving the public education available in New York State (especially city schools)? What are you doing to address the drop-out rate of African American males? And what are you doing for Latino/ Hispanic Americans on the above matters?
Lastly, what is your position on the various laws and actions that are in place or proposed to impede illegal aliens from entering this nation from our southern border only? Do you agree or disagree with the thought that more should be done to protect our largely unwatched northern borders, especially since there has been evidence of how dangerous this lack of attention has been.
Senator Clinton, I look forward to your responses on these questions. I also plan to ask these questions, or similar ones, of Senators Obama, McCain, and any other candidate for the presidency (actual or rumored) throughout 2007.
Thank you for your time and attention in this matter.
Sincerely,
Michael Vass
info@blackentertainmentblog.com
President – M V Consulting, Inc.
December 16, 2006
Senator Clinton,
I am a citizen, former military, an entrepreneur, and resident of upstate New York. As we approach the 2008 presidential race, more and more of the talking heads on television are commenting that you are the leading hopefully for the Democratic Party. Based on that I would like to ask a few questions.
Before I go any further I must mention that I am the owner of 2 blog sites, and co-author of a third. The site that pertains to this subject the most is the www.mvass.com site. This letter, along with any response I receive, will appear in at least that blog.
If you review the site you will see that I have followed your progress and commented on several actions. While these reviews may be critical, that is due to my desire to promote the best government possible with disclosure to the public that consists of detailed relevant commentary. I invite you to review the site and respond to any comments I have made. My focus is not personal, as I do not know you, and has always centered on the actions or comments of your office and fame.
With the above said, I wonder why should anyone expect that you would run for the Presidency? While many believe that as a female candidate you could cause more women to vote than what is normally found in an election, but that is not a valid reason. To say that you are one of the few Democratic political figures that have name recognition and little negative exposure is also a good thing, but not a reason.
What legislation have you initiated, that has passed, that has benefited those living in NY state and/or this nation? When I say benefited I ask that you demonstrate the actual improvement and not the projected improvement that a study or poll has stated. Obviously any recent legislation (less than 6 months) can’t be expected to have necessarily had an immediate effect.
As a key Democrat I ask, what your party has done for African Americans in the last decade, and more importantly since you have taken office. What legislation has passed that benefits African Americans that was initiated by the Democratic Party since you have gained office? To be fair, what legislation has the Democratic party prevented that would have harmed African Americans (in NY state and/or the nation) and how did the party derive that this legislation was harmful?
What are your positions on the platforms? I have heard several soundbites for multiple politicians and none seem to really mean anything when thought about, at least to me. In the recent mid-term elections many Democrats seemed to have won, in my opinion, on the basis that they were for a change in policy. Yet none seemed to have an answer as to what that new and different policy was or could be. In a soundbite such an answer may work, but that is not a reason to be elected for, especially not presidential candidates if such a choice were up to me.
In addition I ask what are you doing to help small businesses? What are you doing about improving the public education available in New York State (especially city schools)? What are you doing to address the drop-out rate of African American males? And what are you doing for Latino/ Hispanic Americans on the above matters?
Lastly, what is your position on the various laws and actions that are in place or proposed to impede illegal aliens from entering this nation from our southern border only? Do you agree or disagree with the thought that more should be done to protect our largely unwatched northern borders, especially since there has been evidence of how dangerous this lack of attention has been.
Senator Clinton, I look forward to your responses on these questions. I also plan to ask these questions, or similar ones, of Senators Obama, McCain, and any other candidate for the presidency (actual or rumored) throughout 2007.
Thank you for your time and attention in this matter.
Sincerely,
Michael Vass
info@blackentertainmentblog.com
President – M V Consulting, Inc.
Repost of original letter to Mr. John Edwards - 1.17.2007.3
This is an excact copy of my original letter to Mr. John Edwards, posted at Vass.
January 5, 2007
Mr. John Edwards,
I recently heard of your decision to run for President of the United States. I am owner and author of multiple blogs, one of which deals primarily with political issues and individuals. This letter is both based on my personal interest and that of my readers. [My sites include www.mvass.com and www.blackentertainmentblog.com]
I am a native American citizen, with my heritage coming from African Americans and Latino Americans. I was born and raised in the Northeast, though I have traveled and lived across the country and am a former Marine. The focus of the blogs are presenting news and events from the perspective of an African Latino American view; which I feel is under-represented in the media.
Given these facts, and that I am largely unfamiliar with your past, I have several questions for you. I have already asked several questions of Senator Clinton and am awaiting her response. I intend to ask similar questions of all (or at least most) individuals that intend to run for the office of the President. I look forward to your responses.
I understand that you have pursued initiatives in healthcare, education, social security and medicare throughout your time in the Senate, and previous to that to a degree in your work as a lawyer. In regard to your work in the Senate, what laws did you initiate, that were passed, that directly improved these issues for Americans in general, and Black and/or Latino Americans specifically? What exactly do you propose to improve the education system in America, specifically for those students in the inner city?
In regard to your desire to create a universal healthcare system in the United States, how do you expect that system to be paid for? In addition what do you believe will be a motivation for professionals and medical industries to work to current standards or to create new advances without the benefit of profit?
What exact plan do you have that will allow Social Security to continue to exist or to be modified for future generations as the baby boomer generation continue to age and existing funds continue to fail to meet the need?
In the 2006 mid-term elections, the democratic party won several seats in both the House and Senate with the cry of changing the current policy in Iraq. What is your exact position on Iraq? I feel that it is not possible to support the troops and question the mission that we have sent them on. I further feel that to remove the funding of the troops, while still engaged in the mission, is neither a show of support nor a plan to win. Do you agree or disagree with this? If you were to be Commander and Chief of our troops what would you have them do to complete our mission in Iraq? Do you feel that the fact that you have never served in the military is a benefit or detriment to the country?
Your party, as I have understood, has no stated plan to change the events and status for the war in Iraq or against terrorism, beyond the statement that change is needed. What exact plan do you wish to implement if you were to be elected that could prevent future attacks by terrorists against this nation?
In terms of the economy, what exactly do you propose that will help those below the middle class to improve their standard of living? It is often held that the democratic party believes that taxes, particularly for the upper incomes, should be increased to provide funds for programs that benefit those of lower income, do you agree with this position? As a business owner and member of the middle class I would like to know what are your economic plans for the country?
Considering events such as the shooting of Mr. Sean Bell, the Duke rape case, the Rodney King riots and other similar events have highlighted the racial tensions that continue to exist in the nation, what would you do to help improve race relations.
Perhaps one of my biggest questions is that America has apologized and made reparations to Native American Indians and Japanese Americans for atrocities and crimes made in the past. Given this fact, how do you justify that America has never made an apology or considered reparations for slavery, jim crow, and segregation. Would you as the President finally provide an apology for these acts? Would you make reparations, and if so what might those reparations entail?
I must mention that I intend to post this to the abovementioned blog. In addition to posting this I will post your response, unaltered, on the blog as well.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Michael Vass
President – M V Consulting, Inc.
Author – Black Entertainment USA and Vass
January 5, 2007
Mr. John Edwards,
I recently heard of your decision to run for President of the United States. I am owner and author of multiple blogs, one of which deals primarily with political issues and individuals. This letter is both based on my personal interest and that of my readers. [My sites include www.mvass.com and www.blackentertainmentblog.com]
I am a native American citizen, with my heritage coming from African Americans and Latino Americans. I was born and raised in the Northeast, though I have traveled and lived across the country and am a former Marine. The focus of the blogs are presenting news and events from the perspective of an African Latino American view; which I feel is under-represented in the media.
Given these facts, and that I am largely unfamiliar with your past, I have several questions for you. I have already asked several questions of Senator Clinton and am awaiting her response. I intend to ask similar questions of all (or at least most) individuals that intend to run for the office of the President. I look forward to your responses.
I understand that you have pursued initiatives in healthcare, education, social security and medicare throughout your time in the Senate, and previous to that to a degree in your work as a lawyer. In regard to your work in the Senate, what laws did you initiate, that were passed, that directly improved these issues for Americans in general, and Black and/or Latino Americans specifically? What exactly do you propose to improve the education system in America, specifically for those students in the inner city?
In regard to your desire to create a universal healthcare system in the United States, how do you expect that system to be paid for? In addition what do you believe will be a motivation for professionals and medical industries to work to current standards or to create new advances without the benefit of profit?
What exact plan do you have that will allow Social Security to continue to exist or to be modified for future generations as the baby boomer generation continue to age and existing funds continue to fail to meet the need?
In the 2006 mid-term elections, the democratic party won several seats in both the House and Senate with the cry of changing the current policy in Iraq. What is your exact position on Iraq? I feel that it is not possible to support the troops and question the mission that we have sent them on. I further feel that to remove the funding of the troops, while still engaged in the mission, is neither a show of support nor a plan to win. Do you agree or disagree with this? If you were to be Commander and Chief of our troops what would you have them do to complete our mission in Iraq? Do you feel that the fact that you have never served in the military is a benefit or detriment to the country?
Your party, as I have understood, has no stated plan to change the events and status for the war in Iraq or against terrorism, beyond the statement that change is needed. What exact plan do you wish to implement if you were to be elected that could prevent future attacks by terrorists against this nation?
In terms of the economy, what exactly do you propose that will help those below the middle class to improve their standard of living? It is often held that the democratic party believes that taxes, particularly for the upper incomes, should be increased to provide funds for programs that benefit those of lower income, do you agree with this position? As a business owner and member of the middle class I would like to know what are your economic plans for the country?
Considering events such as the shooting of Mr. Sean Bell, the Duke rape case, the Rodney King riots and other similar events have highlighted the racial tensions that continue to exist in the nation, what would you do to help improve race relations.
Perhaps one of my biggest questions is that America has apologized and made reparations to Native American Indians and Japanese Americans for atrocities and crimes made in the past. Given this fact, how do you justify that America has never made an apology or considered reparations for slavery, jim crow, and segregation. Would you as the President finally provide an apology for these acts? Would you make reparations, and if so what might those reparations entail?
I must mention that I intend to post this to the abovementioned blog. In addition to posting this I will post your response, unaltered, on the blog as well.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Michael Vass
President – M V Consulting, Inc.
Author – Black Entertainment USA and Vass
Repost of my letter to Mitt Romney - 1.17.2007.2
This was originally posted at my political blog Vass. This is an unaltered repost of the letter.
January 10, 2007
Mr. Romney,
I am aware of your recent declaration to enter the race for the Presidency of the United States. I maintain several blogs (www.mvass.com is most relevant) as well as being a citizen, a former member of the military, and a small business owner. For these reasons I wish to ask you some questions about why you believe you should be President. It is my intention to also post this letter, and any response from you, verbatim on at least one of my blog sites. I have previously sent a similar letter to Senator Clinton and Mr. John Edwards. I plan on sending a similar letter to several candidates for President, as time and their declarations allow.
I am not familiar with your positions or your actions as Governor of Massachusetts. Given this lack of knowledge can you tell me what you have done for your former constituents, especially those of Latino/Hispanic and African American heritage, that has improved their lives.
In regard to your position on healthcare, I have read that you believe in universal care – at least on a state level. Given this I would like to know, how would you fund a federal universal healthcare plan? What would you do to motivate innovation and the quality of care that currently exists in the current profit motivated system? If the healthcare is universal, does it also mean that illegal aliens are entitled and if so where would the funds for those individuals come from?
In regard to education, I see that in 2002 you were in favor of school vouchers and the reform of underperforming institutions, how effective have you been in MA? Considering that nation-wide there has been a huge increase in African American dropout rates, what would you do to improve those numbers? Based on your reported desire to abolish the Department of Education (2002), what would you have to replace it and how would it function?
It appears in what I have read, that you have a very strong stance on punishment for convicted criminals. I would like to know, do you agree with the death penalty? Since you believe in mandatory sentences, and increasing sentencing, how would you correct the imbalance that exists in the justice system currently? To clarify my point, African Americans, and to a slightly lesser degree Latino/Hispanics, are routinely given stiffer penalties and sentences than White Americans for the same crimes. This is even more evident in sentences that are for life or the death penalty. What initiatives would you take to ensure a more even-handed approach?
In recent weeks a great deal has been made of Representative Ellison’s informal swearing in using the Quran. As an individual of the Mormon faith, if you were to be elected President, would you use The Book Of Mormon to be sworn in on? (Please excuse my ignorance about your faith but I believe that is your religious text) Do you feel that your religious background would have any affect on your performance if elected President? Would it have any affect in dealing with dignitaries and governments that hold a different religion, and if so what? What place do you feel religion has for any elected official, if any?
For some time now politicians have said that they are for ‘family values’. I have heard this stated by politicians and candidates of every party. How do you exactly define family values? How do you plan to promote those values, if you were elected? And what recourse or alternative would be available to those Americans who have values separate of yours?
It appears that your views on abortion and gay rights have changed over the years. What has prompted your change of view? What is your exact position on these issues today?
Consider that America has taken on a war against the ideal of terrorism, and terrorists, in addition to being engaged in an active war in Iraq and maintaining troops in Afghanistan. Given this do you feel that your lack in being a member of the Armed Forces is a benefit, detractor, or of no concern? How do you come to this conclusion? What are your plans to protect America, as Commander-and-Chief?
Currently there have been many soundbites used by politicians of every party in discussing every platform and idea. In each question I have asked I hope for full and complete answers. I would rather an extremely long and complex answer that details exactly your plans and goals, rather than a short answer that details and explains nothing. I feel strongly about the use of snippets of information to almost convey an actual position. I feel that the recent win by democrats in the mid-term elections were due to this use of soundbites. How do you feel about this?
I thank your for your time to review this letter. I, and my readers, look forward your responses.
Sincerely,
Michael Vass
President – M V Consulting, Inc.
Author – Vass and Black Entertainment USA
info@blackentertainmentblog.com
January 10, 2007
Mr. Romney,
I am aware of your recent declaration to enter the race for the Presidency of the United States. I maintain several blogs (www.mvass.com is most relevant) as well as being a citizen, a former member of the military, and a small business owner. For these reasons I wish to ask you some questions about why you believe you should be President. It is my intention to also post this letter, and any response from you, verbatim on at least one of my blog sites. I have previously sent a similar letter to Senator Clinton and Mr. John Edwards. I plan on sending a similar letter to several candidates for President, as time and their declarations allow.
I am not familiar with your positions or your actions as Governor of Massachusetts. Given this lack of knowledge can you tell me what you have done for your former constituents, especially those of Latino/Hispanic and African American heritage, that has improved their lives.
In regard to your position on healthcare, I have read that you believe in universal care – at least on a state level. Given this I would like to know, how would you fund a federal universal healthcare plan? What would you do to motivate innovation and the quality of care that currently exists in the current profit motivated system? If the healthcare is universal, does it also mean that illegal aliens are entitled and if so where would the funds for those individuals come from?
In regard to education, I see that in 2002 you were in favor of school vouchers and the reform of underperforming institutions, how effective have you been in MA? Considering that nation-wide there has been a huge increase in African American dropout rates, what would you do to improve those numbers? Based on your reported desire to abolish the Department of Education (2002), what would you have to replace it and how would it function?
It appears in what I have read, that you have a very strong stance on punishment for convicted criminals. I would like to know, do you agree with the death penalty? Since you believe in mandatory sentences, and increasing sentencing, how would you correct the imbalance that exists in the justice system currently? To clarify my point, African Americans, and to a slightly lesser degree Latino/Hispanics, are routinely given stiffer penalties and sentences than White Americans for the same crimes. This is even more evident in sentences that are for life or the death penalty. What initiatives would you take to ensure a more even-handed approach?
In recent weeks a great deal has been made of Representative Ellison’s informal swearing in using the Quran. As an individual of the Mormon faith, if you were to be elected President, would you use The Book Of Mormon to be sworn in on? (Please excuse my ignorance about your faith but I believe that is your religious text) Do you feel that your religious background would have any affect on your performance if elected President? Would it have any affect in dealing with dignitaries and governments that hold a different religion, and if so what? What place do you feel religion has for any elected official, if any?
For some time now politicians have said that they are for ‘family values’. I have heard this stated by politicians and candidates of every party. How do you exactly define family values? How do you plan to promote those values, if you were elected? And what recourse or alternative would be available to those Americans who have values separate of yours?
It appears that your views on abortion and gay rights have changed over the years. What has prompted your change of view? What is your exact position on these issues today?
Consider that America has taken on a war against the ideal of terrorism, and terrorists, in addition to being engaged in an active war in Iraq and maintaining troops in Afghanistan. Given this do you feel that your lack in being a member of the Armed Forces is a benefit, detractor, or of no concern? How do you come to this conclusion? What are your plans to protect America, as Commander-and-Chief?
Currently there have been many soundbites used by politicians of every party in discussing every platform and idea. In each question I have asked I hope for full and complete answers. I would rather an extremely long and complex answer that details exactly your plans and goals, rather than a short answer that details and explains nothing. I feel strongly about the use of snippets of information to almost convey an actual position. I feel that the recent win by democrats in the mid-term elections were due to this use of soundbites. How do you feel about this?
I thank your for your time to review this letter. I, and my readers, look forward your responses.
Sincerely,
Michael Vass
President – M V Consulting, Inc.
Author – Vass and Black Entertainment USA
info@blackentertainmentblog.com
Second letter to Mr. John Edwards - 1.17.2007.1
This is in response to my letter to Mr. John Edwards. I have not received a response from Mr. Edwards, though I have received mass email blasts, that I did not solicit. So in an effort to get a proper response from Mr. Edwards and the other Presidential candidates, I will post my letters to each on Black Entertainment USA in addition to Vass. I do not like to break from the normal nature of the commentary on this site, but understanding whom will lead this nation is important. There are far too many issues that affect all Americans (and far to many that affect African Americans and Latinos and Hispanic Americans directly) to not address this in the largest medium possible, especially since it seems that it's the only way to get a response.
The following is an exact copy of my letter sent to Mr. John Edwards on January 17, 2007. Any responses will be posted unaltered. Thank you for your understanding.
January 17, 2007
Mr. Edwards,
I want to thank you for the 3 emails you have sent to me to date. Each of these emails has been received based on the letter that I sent to you on January 5, 2007. While I appreciate that the receipt of these emails, each containing information on statements you are making to the media in support of your run for President, which confirms that you have in fact received my original letter. Of the 3 candidates that I have written to as of this date, you (or more accurately your organization) are the first to present any response.
Sadly these responses are far from an answer to the original letter I sent, or any of the questions I have asked of you. I have not posted your mass email blasts, as I am not seeking to promote any political figure or candidate for the Presidency at this time. While it is interesting to read the canned commentary that you send out, seemingly to anyone who has contacted you for any reason, it is of little interest to me if you cannot respond to the original cause of your acquiring my email address.
I do not believe that this is due to a lack of concern, or lack of attention to detail. I will give you the benefit of doubt that you have not had the time to respond in detail to the direct questions that I have asked. I prefer to think that you are not unconcerned with the voice of this one voter, or the thousands of readers that have also seen my letter. Perhaps you have not received my previous letter directly due to a staffer failing to recognize that at least one of my sites (www.blackentertainmentblog.com) is ranked considerably well [Technorati has the abovementioned site raked at roughly 250,000 out of well over 4 - 10 million blogs depending on conservative estimates].
Given these reasons I am not upset that I am now getting mail that amounts to little more than spam. I say spam as I did not contact you or your organization for updates on your PR releases. I did not request any updates or other information beyond the answers to my questions. Perhaps if you had provided a response to my questions I may have considered discussing your email blasts on my blogs. Until you do I definitely will not. I also feel it only fair that I will, from this point forward, forward my original letter to you each time that you send an unsolicited email blast to me until you respond to my questions.
In addition, as my political blog may be too small for your attention, I will post my letter to you, and every candidate for President I send a letter to, on my largest blog if not all of them. If there is a critical mass that is necessary before you or any Presidential hopeful will respond, I should easily reach this number as I estimate my total readers to be about 16,000 per month and growing. I should also note that while I have a diverse group of readers worldwide, my target audiences are predominantly African Americans and Latino/Hispanic Americans. I’m sure you are familiar with the demographics of the nation and how valuable both groups are to any political hopeful.
I will be posting this letter at the abovementioned blog among my others. I will also publish each response from any Presidential hopeful, unaltered. I look forward to your response to my original letter. For your ease, I have included a copy of my original letter with this one.
Sincerely
Michael Vass
President – M V Consulting, Inc.
Author – Black Entertainment USA and Vass
info@blackentertainmentblog.com
The following is an exact copy of my letter sent to Mr. John Edwards on January 17, 2007. Any responses will be posted unaltered. Thank you for your understanding.
January 17, 2007
Mr. Edwards,
I want to thank you for the 3 emails you have sent to me to date. Each of these emails has been received based on the letter that I sent to you on January 5, 2007. While I appreciate that the receipt of these emails, each containing information on statements you are making to the media in support of your run for President, which confirms that you have in fact received my original letter. Of the 3 candidates that I have written to as of this date, you (or more accurately your organization) are the first to present any response.
Sadly these responses are far from an answer to the original letter I sent, or any of the questions I have asked of you. I have not posted your mass email blasts, as I am not seeking to promote any political figure or candidate for the Presidency at this time. While it is interesting to read the canned commentary that you send out, seemingly to anyone who has contacted you for any reason, it is of little interest to me if you cannot respond to the original cause of your acquiring my email address.
I do not believe that this is due to a lack of concern, or lack of attention to detail. I will give you the benefit of doubt that you have not had the time to respond in detail to the direct questions that I have asked. I prefer to think that you are not unconcerned with the voice of this one voter, or the thousands of readers that have also seen my letter. Perhaps you have not received my previous letter directly due to a staffer failing to recognize that at least one of my sites (www.blackentertainmentblog.com) is ranked considerably well [Technorati has the abovementioned site raked at roughly 250,000 out of well over 4 - 10 million blogs depending on conservative estimates].
Given these reasons I am not upset that I am now getting mail that amounts to little more than spam. I say spam as I did not contact you or your organization for updates on your PR releases. I did not request any updates or other information beyond the answers to my questions. Perhaps if you had provided a response to my questions I may have considered discussing your email blasts on my blogs. Until you do I definitely will not. I also feel it only fair that I will, from this point forward, forward my original letter to you each time that you send an unsolicited email blast to me until you respond to my questions.
In addition, as my political blog may be too small for your attention, I will post my letter to you, and every candidate for President I send a letter to, on my largest blog if not all of them. If there is a critical mass that is necessary before you or any Presidential hopeful will respond, I should easily reach this number as I estimate my total readers to be about 16,000 per month and growing. I should also note that while I have a diverse group of readers worldwide, my target audiences are predominantly African Americans and Latino/Hispanic Americans. I’m sure you are familiar with the demographics of the nation and how valuable both groups are to any political hopeful.
I will be posting this letter at the abovementioned blog among my others. I will also publish each response from any Presidential hopeful, unaltered. I look forward to your response to my original letter. For your ease, I have included a copy of my original letter with this one.
Sincerely
Michael Vass
President – M V Consulting, Inc.
Author – Black Entertainment USA and Vass
info@blackentertainmentblog.com
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Recap of the 2nd week of January 2007 - 1.16.2007.1
There are a few things from last week I didn’t get a chance to mention. I’ll try to catch up now. First the week in history. During the last week: Fisk University was founded, Dr. George Washington Carver was born, Delta Sigma Theta is started, Twelfth Night or the Epiphany occurred (the baby Jesus was born in January not December and the 3 wise men visited him last week).
Beyond those events, this is the second week I can mention that of the 3 individuals considering or running for President that I have contacted none have responded to date. Now to be fair I did not send my letters to each all on the same day, but they have had some time. Of course I may not be the first name on their list to respond to. Still considering that the questions I am asking are what I believe are important to you as well, I think that they should be in touch soon. Then again, some of them may not wish to clearly define where they stand on issues important to Black Americans, Latinos and Hispanic Americans, and others. But when they do respond I will post every word, unaltered, for every one of the tens of thousands of you to read. [Yes I feel good that so many pay attention to my blogs] You can look forward to reading my letters to Senator McCain, and Obama in the near term. Possibly Rev. Sharpton as well.
You can reach each letter posted to date at the following:
Letter to Mitt Romney - 1.10.2007.1
Letter sent to John Edwards - 1.5.2007.1
Letter to Senator Clinton - 12.16.2006.1
As for some events that happened last week, there is an interesting bit on the rapper Noreaga or NORE or whatever he goes by now (his name is Victor Santiago and I will refer to him as such). In Mr. Santiago’s desire to build record sales, he had no problem befriending and employing a couple of members of the Murder Unit gang. That’s not my opinion, he said, “Hard-core hip-hop tends to sell more records. It's about selling an image.” Mr. Santiago stated this as a witness in the trail of one of the members of the gang. It seems that the accused allegedly murdered 3 victims and stole cocaine. My opinion is that Mr. Santiago’s claim that he was unaware of any of these gang members he employed were selling drugs, carried weapons, and were violent is either false or the man is beyond dim. Since he knows how to use people to promote himself, as well as possibly providing him with the drugs he admitted to using [a shame they couldn’t arrest him for that] I doubt dim. I just find it infuriating when an entertainer (especially a Latino/Hispanic) brazenly uses drugs, chases women, employs potentially violent drug dealing felons and brazenly admits to it while cracking goes at a trial. All this just to sell records and make money on an image. Wealth is just not worth it, I think.
Something worth speaking about are the continuing efforts of Mr. George Clooney and his father in bringing more attention to the Dafur atrocity. If you have missed the news on Darfur, which is easy since little is mentioned about it on the news [though there is plenty of time to discuss say the Trump vs. O’Donnell idiocy], over 200,000 Africans have died since 2003. Over 2.5 million have had to flee from their homes. Mr. Clooney has spent a good deal of time raising the awareness of this situation, having spoken to the U.N. twice already trying to get international attention on the matter. I respect Mr. Clooney as a man due to his efforts, as well as respecting his choice of movies and ability in them. If you missed the presentation of his documentary film A Journey to Darfur, look for a replay on the AmericanLife TV Network. Or ask for it to be put on DVD or on a local station near you.
Perhaps 2007 will be the year we see some of these rappers, or other celebrities, entertainers, and politicians do something to help these Africans that are in need. It may not be as much fun for them, but I hope they all don’t want to live like Mr. Santiago.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Beyond those events, this is the second week I can mention that of the 3 individuals considering or running for President that I have contacted none have responded to date. Now to be fair I did not send my letters to each all on the same day, but they have had some time. Of course I may not be the first name on their list to respond to. Still considering that the questions I am asking are what I believe are important to you as well, I think that they should be in touch soon. Then again, some of them may not wish to clearly define where they stand on issues important to Black Americans, Latinos and Hispanic Americans, and others. But when they do respond I will post every word, unaltered, for every one of the tens of thousands of you to read. [Yes I feel good that so many pay attention to my blogs] You can look forward to reading my letters to Senator McCain, and Obama in the near term. Possibly Rev. Sharpton as well.
You can reach each letter posted to date at the following:
Letter to Mitt Romney - 1.10.2007.1
Letter sent to John Edwards - 1.5.2007.1
Letter to Senator Clinton - 12.16.2006.1
As for some events that happened last week, there is an interesting bit on the rapper Noreaga or NORE or whatever he goes by now (his name is Victor Santiago and I will refer to him as such). In Mr. Santiago’s desire to build record sales, he had no problem befriending and employing a couple of members of the Murder Unit gang. That’s not my opinion, he said, “Hard-core hip-hop tends to sell more records. It's about selling an image.” Mr. Santiago stated this as a witness in the trail of one of the members of the gang. It seems that the accused allegedly murdered 3 victims and stole cocaine. My opinion is that Mr. Santiago’s claim that he was unaware of any of these gang members he employed were selling drugs, carried weapons, and were violent is either false or the man is beyond dim. Since he knows how to use people to promote himself, as well as possibly providing him with the drugs he admitted to using [a shame they couldn’t arrest him for that] I doubt dim. I just find it infuriating when an entertainer (especially a Latino/Hispanic) brazenly uses drugs, chases women, employs potentially violent drug dealing felons and brazenly admits to it while cracking goes at a trial. All this just to sell records and make money on an image. Wealth is just not worth it, I think.
Something worth speaking about are the continuing efforts of Mr. George Clooney and his father in bringing more attention to the Dafur atrocity. If you have missed the news on Darfur, which is easy since little is mentioned about it on the news [though there is plenty of time to discuss say the Trump vs. O’Donnell idiocy], over 200,000 Africans have died since 2003. Over 2.5 million have had to flee from their homes. Mr. Clooney has spent a good deal of time raising the awareness of this situation, having spoken to the U.N. twice already trying to get international attention on the matter. I respect Mr. Clooney as a man due to his efforts, as well as respecting his choice of movies and ability in them. If you missed the presentation of his documentary film A Journey to Darfur, look for a replay on the AmericanLife TV Network. Or ask for it to be put on DVD or on a local station near you.
Perhaps 2007 will be the year we see some of these rappers, or other celebrities, entertainers, and politicians do something to help these Africans that are in need. It may not be as much fun for them, but I hope they all don’t want to live like Mr. Santiago.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Monday, January 15, 2007
My message concluded - 1.15.2007.4
Continued from part 2...
...
Without these items the creed, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal,” is just hollow words. The equality can never be realized, not when we feed the flames that inequality thrives on. The dream that, “…my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character,” cannot come true when we allow the character of a person to be based on the color of their skin.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had a dream, but it was not something that he wanted to only dream. He had a vision of a better America, stronger by the inclusion and respect of all the colors and religions that comprise America. Dr. King, and many others, worked towards taking the dream and making a reality. Sadly Dr. King has not lived to build that reality. Thankfully he did not live to see this failure on the steps he helped the nation take forward.
We have stumbled. Not just White Americans, Black Americans, but ALL Americans. In the same way we grew and moved forward as a nation we have faltered and stumbled together as well.
I feel the time has long passed to wait for another Dr. King. As African Americans we need more than a figurehead, real or imagined by the media, to bring us forward. We need to accept that the vision of Dr. King, Malcolm X, and all who sacrificed those short decades ago is the vision we all share. Dr. King was a great man, and great men lead. But all great men are so due to being followed. Though Dr. King has passed we can each still follow his vision, as we did when he walked among all people in Alabama, Mississippi, Washington D.C., and in life.
If we do this, the dream becomes a reality. The creed takes meaning. The lives of all in the nation improves. Perhaps the lives of all the world may one day live this dream come true. But if in our community and culture we do not live the dream, it fades from memory and distorts. It becomes a part of the past that has no meaning in the current and thus cannot be in the future.
I, for one, do not wish to see a future like that. I do not wish my nieces and nephews, or those children of my friends, to grow up in that kind of world. Perhaps this can help to ensure such a world of negativity never exists. It’s a small step, but a step all the same. Now what step will you take?
This is what I think, what do you think?
Part 1
Part 2
...
Without these items the creed, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal,” is just hollow words. The equality can never be realized, not when we feed the flames that inequality thrives on. The dream that, “…my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character,” cannot come true when we allow the character of a person to be based on the color of their skin.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had a dream, but it was not something that he wanted to only dream. He had a vision of a better America, stronger by the inclusion and respect of all the colors and religions that comprise America. Dr. King, and many others, worked towards taking the dream and making a reality. Sadly Dr. King has not lived to build that reality. Thankfully he did not live to see this failure on the steps he helped the nation take forward.
We have stumbled. Not just White Americans, Black Americans, but ALL Americans. In the same way we grew and moved forward as a nation we have faltered and stumbled together as well.
I feel the time has long passed to wait for another Dr. King. As African Americans we need more than a figurehead, real or imagined by the media, to bring us forward. We need to accept that the vision of Dr. King, Malcolm X, and all who sacrificed those short decades ago is the vision we all share. Dr. King was a great man, and great men lead. But all great men are so due to being followed. Though Dr. King has passed we can each still follow his vision, as we did when he walked among all people in Alabama, Mississippi, Washington D.C., and in life.
If we do this, the dream becomes a reality. The creed takes meaning. The lives of all in the nation improves. Perhaps the lives of all the world may one day live this dream come true. But if in our community and culture we do not live the dream, it fades from memory and distorts. It becomes a part of the past that has no meaning in the current and thus cannot be in the future.
I, for one, do not wish to see a future like that. I do not wish my nieces and nephews, or those children of my friends, to grow up in that kind of world. Perhaps this can help to ensure such a world of negativity never exists. It’s a small step, but a step all the same. Now what step will you take?
This is what I think, what do you think?
Part 1
Part 2
Dr. King message part 2 - 1.15.2007.3
Continued from part 1...
...
In a less quoted part of Dr. King’s speech he stated, “It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note, insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked ‘insufficient funds’”. In ways that note is still unpaid. The failures from Hurricane Katrina, the injustice of the murders of Mr. Sean Bell and many others, and multiple other events confirm this.
But there has been some payment made. Minority businesses are not just the ‘crazy dreams’ of ‘those muslims’, but an encouraged reality in virtually every city in the nation. Where the military was highly segregated, now we have seen an African American reach the highest levels. Where there were political offices devoid of any persons of color we now have Cabinet members and Secretary of State. Today we even can see Black Americans as millionaires and billionaires in business and serious consideration of the potential of a Black President. Not long ago (a mere 20 years) such a thought could only be the fodder of comedians.
Yet for all of that there is still what Dr. King called, “…the tranquilizing drug of gradualism,” in that same speech from 1963. And like all drugs it is addictive. Today the youth fail to take the educations that are available to them. With desegregation, the internet, and yes mediocre schools there is the potential to expand our minds; yet the dropout rates have risen to unheard of levels. In the past we were barred from learning, today it is abandoned. In the past there was degradation placed upon us, in restrictions on where we could live, sit, and eat. In the past there was dehumanization placed in the words used to describe us. Today we degrade ourselves in words used to greet and converse with ourselves or others. Today we belittle our women as props and possessions in music videos, song and movies. Today we insult and destroy our families with terms like ‘baby-mama’ or ‘baby-daddy’, and actions such as creating families and not providing the resulting children with a father. We divert ourselves in a quest for wealth by any means, without concern of what those means and their resulting consequence cost.
These are the things we have done and allow to exist. There is no question that problems exist, beyond our causation. These serve only to compound the issues that we place on ourselves. Dr. King said, “We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality. We can never be satisfied as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities. We cannot be satisfied as long as the negro's basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one. We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their self-hood and robbed of their dignity by a sign stating: "For Whites Only." We cannot be satisfied as long as a Negro in Mississippi cannot vote and a Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote. No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until "justice rolls down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
I humbly add to these important words, we cannot be satisfied to pretend that our ghettos are treasures, somehow known only by ourselves. We cannot be satisfied to allow our children to grow up without knowing both their parents. We cannot be satisfied with the unspeakable brutality enacted by African American on African American in the name of whatever gang or petty monetary gain. We cannot be satisfied with the lodging provided by prisons and jails as a second home. We cannot accept the platitudes of politicians, offering us the ability to continue in this lifestyle without enabling us the ability to improve our lives, and returning them votes to continue this process.
... continued in part 3
...
In a less quoted part of Dr. King’s speech he stated, “It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note, insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked ‘insufficient funds’”. In ways that note is still unpaid. The failures from Hurricane Katrina, the injustice of the murders of Mr. Sean Bell and many others, and multiple other events confirm this.
But there has been some payment made. Minority businesses are not just the ‘crazy dreams’ of ‘those muslims’, but an encouraged reality in virtually every city in the nation. Where the military was highly segregated, now we have seen an African American reach the highest levels. Where there were political offices devoid of any persons of color we now have Cabinet members and Secretary of State. Today we even can see Black Americans as millionaires and billionaires in business and serious consideration of the potential of a Black President. Not long ago (a mere 20 years) such a thought could only be the fodder of comedians.
Yet for all of that there is still what Dr. King called, “…the tranquilizing drug of gradualism,” in that same speech from 1963. And like all drugs it is addictive. Today the youth fail to take the educations that are available to them. With desegregation, the internet, and yes mediocre schools there is the potential to expand our minds; yet the dropout rates have risen to unheard of levels. In the past we were barred from learning, today it is abandoned. In the past there was degradation placed upon us, in restrictions on where we could live, sit, and eat. In the past there was dehumanization placed in the words used to describe us. Today we degrade ourselves in words used to greet and converse with ourselves or others. Today we belittle our women as props and possessions in music videos, song and movies. Today we insult and destroy our families with terms like ‘baby-mama’ or ‘baby-daddy’, and actions such as creating families and not providing the resulting children with a father. We divert ourselves in a quest for wealth by any means, without concern of what those means and their resulting consequence cost.
These are the things we have done and allow to exist. There is no question that problems exist, beyond our causation. These serve only to compound the issues that we place on ourselves. Dr. King said, “We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality. We can never be satisfied as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities. We cannot be satisfied as long as the negro's basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one. We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their self-hood and robbed of their dignity by a sign stating: "For Whites Only." We cannot be satisfied as long as a Negro in Mississippi cannot vote and a Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote. No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until "justice rolls down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
I humbly add to these important words, we cannot be satisfied to pretend that our ghettos are treasures, somehow known only by ourselves. We cannot be satisfied to allow our children to grow up without knowing both their parents. We cannot be satisfied with the unspeakable brutality enacted by African American on African American in the name of whatever gang or petty monetary gain. We cannot be satisfied with the lodging provided by prisons and jails as a second home. We cannot accept the platitudes of politicians, offering us the ability to continue in this lifestyle without enabling us the ability to improve our lives, and returning them votes to continue this process.
... continued in part 3
My message as we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King - 1.15.2007.2
For many today is a day of remembrance. Today is a day to think of hope. This is a time to look to the future and see a better America. For just as many today is just another day. A day that holds no glimmer of hope, no potential for better and no end to the sometimes harsh conditions that every day brings.
The differences in those 2 thoughts tends to be age and education, in my opinion. For many of the youth of today there is no understanding of what happened some 40 years ago. The youth of today have never been beaten for sitting in the wrong seat on a bus, based solely on the color of their skin. They have not had fire hoses placed on them because they tried to go to school, but had the wrong race to be allowed in. The youth of today have never been lynched because they dated, or looked at, someone of a color not their own. For too many of the youth today these are all items of ancient history, perhaps as relevant as the War of 1812, perhaps slightly more when a movie starring a favored actor is seen.
This is not entirely their fault. I cannot say I am greatly different. I am not different in that I did not suffer those same things. I had the benefit of growing up after that time. After the sacrifices of Dr. King, and Mr. Malcolm X and many others, most who were not famous enough to have their names recorded but sacrificed all the same. The difference is that I am old enough to have heard the bile in being called the N-word. I am old enough to have had a Mother, and uncles and a Father that did suffer those events. I am old enough to know that some have, and continue, to value the color of a person’s skin above their actions. I am old enough to have experienced the problems that go with that mindset. And that makes me understand that these things aren’t history, ancient or recent, but current in the world.
On this day I think to the breakthroughs we see. My own past success in becoming a stockbroker (a vestige of the ‘old boys club’ mentality still but not quite like it was), in traveling the world, in being able to attend a college (of my choice), and to live in places I chose. I see the things that have changed in the world. Actors and actresses of African American and Latino/Hispanic decent that are able to lead films without having to portray the villain, the drug dealer, the gangster or prostitute. I have seen characters on television that are Black that portray the American President, doctors, and leaders of industry. I have seen celebrities embraced throughout the world, and this nation, with skins ranging from dark to light. I have seen entertainers step back to their roots and enrich the lives of all there.
Yet I must say that with each step that has improved there are those steps that have gone backwards. I have heard the famous words of Dr. King often quoted and played, yet I’ve seen few continue them. Let me be clear, as much as the world is better for Black Americans it is also worse. And part of that worsening is the fault of the Black community and culture.
... end of part 1
Continued in part 2
The differences in those 2 thoughts tends to be age and education, in my opinion. For many of the youth of today there is no understanding of what happened some 40 years ago. The youth of today have never been beaten for sitting in the wrong seat on a bus, based solely on the color of their skin. They have not had fire hoses placed on them because they tried to go to school, but had the wrong race to be allowed in. The youth of today have never been lynched because they dated, or looked at, someone of a color not their own. For too many of the youth today these are all items of ancient history, perhaps as relevant as the War of 1812, perhaps slightly more when a movie starring a favored actor is seen.
This is not entirely their fault. I cannot say I am greatly different. I am not different in that I did not suffer those same things. I had the benefit of growing up after that time. After the sacrifices of Dr. King, and Mr. Malcolm X and many others, most who were not famous enough to have their names recorded but sacrificed all the same. The difference is that I am old enough to have heard the bile in being called the N-word. I am old enough to have had a Mother, and uncles and a Father that did suffer those events. I am old enough to know that some have, and continue, to value the color of a person’s skin above their actions. I am old enough to have experienced the problems that go with that mindset. And that makes me understand that these things aren’t history, ancient or recent, but current in the world.
On this day I think to the breakthroughs we see. My own past success in becoming a stockbroker (a vestige of the ‘old boys club’ mentality still but not quite like it was), in traveling the world, in being able to attend a college (of my choice), and to live in places I chose. I see the things that have changed in the world. Actors and actresses of African American and Latino/Hispanic decent that are able to lead films without having to portray the villain, the drug dealer, the gangster or prostitute. I have seen characters on television that are Black that portray the American President, doctors, and leaders of industry. I have seen celebrities embraced throughout the world, and this nation, with skins ranging from dark to light. I have seen entertainers step back to their roots and enrich the lives of all there.
Yet I must say that with each step that has improved there are those steps that have gone backwards. I have heard the famous words of Dr. King often quoted and played, yet I’ve seen few continue them. Let me be clear, as much as the world is better for Black Americans it is also worse. And part of that worsening is the fault of the Black community and culture.
... end of part 1
Continued in part 2
What's been keeping me busy - 1.15.2007.1
I realize I'm a little behind in posting. Don't worry, I'll be back at it shortly. If you are wondering what has been taking up my time I suggest taking a look at the gift catalogue.
Of the currently 10 clothing lines, I've added photos (done by photographer Mr. Eddie Di Salvo, and models Ms. Amanda Chestnut and Mr. Ken Warren as well as myself) of some of the more recent additions.
You may be surprised that currently there are over 150 gift items to be found at my online store. You may want to check from time to time as i am consistently adding new product lines, and I try to have photo shoots to show them off when time permits.
Currently you can find Hoodies, t-shirts, sweatshirts, thongs, teddy bears, stamps (yes real stamps), gift cards, mugs, throw pillows, jewlery boxes, Journals, baseball caps, and mouse pads to name just a few gift items.
Valentine's Day, a birthday, a special moment, just because, for men or women, just check it out and see for yourself.
Well now you know what I've been up to. Tell your friends. Enough of my self promotion.
[Oh, if you are interested in becoming a model just send me an email and a photo and maybe you can be featured in the next product photo shoot.]
Of the currently 10 clothing lines, I've added photos (done by photographer Mr. Eddie Di Salvo, and models Ms. Amanda Chestnut and Mr. Ken Warren as well as myself) of some of the more recent additions.
You may be surprised that currently there are over 150 gift items to be found at my online store. You may want to check from time to time as i am consistently adding new product lines, and I try to have photo shoots to show them off when time permits.
Currently you can find Hoodies, t-shirts, sweatshirts, thongs, teddy bears, stamps (yes real stamps), gift cards, mugs, throw pillows, jewlery boxes, Journals, baseball caps, and mouse pads to name just a few gift items.
Valentine's Day, a birthday, a special moment, just because, for men or women, just check it out and see for yourself.
Well now you know what I've been up to. Tell your friends. Enough of my self promotion.
[Oh, if you are interested in becoming a model just send me an email and a photo and maybe you can be featured in the next product photo shoot.]
Friday, January 12, 2007
What 250 million dollars gets - 1.12.2007.1
Ok, I’m annoyed. I’ve read and heard quite a bit about Mr. David Beckham’s move to the L.A. Galaxy. Much of the news has been of a negative bent. I’ve seen many debate the cost of Mr. Beckham, or question his ability. I’ve read many sing the continued doom of the national soccer leagues and even a couple sneer at Mr. Beckham and his use of the term futbol (which is the international name of soccer). Well here are some facts.
There has been international futbol, or soccer, competitions since 1900 (summer Olympics – demonstration only initially, official after 1908). The World Cup has been played 17 times in 76 years. It has only not gone on 2x due to World War II. Current nations capable of qualifying number 207. It IS the most watched sporting event in the world with over a billion viewers. The final in 2002 captured 1/6 the entire population of the planet in 213 countries alone. The U.S. has qualified for games 7 times, with a semi-finalist showing once in 1930, that is the best we have ever done. [I should also mention an error I made previously. The USA did play in 1990, losing every game and I had forgotten it. I incorrectly mentioned in a previous post that the US had not played in a Cup since 1950 until 1994.] Considering the status of the nation and our obvious athletic abilities (as seen in our dominance of Olympics and national sports) to perform so weakly is embarrassing.
That said, I feel the naysaying and negative attitudes of some against the MLS league is sad. Some have questioned the price of acquiring Mr. Beckham. As I understand roughly $150 million of the price is due to sponsorships that are attached to Mr. Beckham no matter where he goes (he will actually be paid $10 million a year by the Galaxy and he gets a percentage of product and ticket sales). Even considering that, the price is not that unheard of. While this does place Mr. Beckham in the number 3 position of highest earning athletes in the world it is not so far out of place in comparison to the $252 million for Mr. Alex Rodriguez (which I understand, perhaps incorrectly, as being without endorsements). At $50 million Mr. Beckham is very close to Mr. Tiger Woods who makes an estimated $80 million per year. Let me compare these individuals.
Mr. Rodriguez is very good, but he is not one of the greatest players in the world. He does play for the best baseball team (debatable I’ll give you) but he does not elevate the sport in the U.S. nor the world. He does not raise the bar of competition in the sport among its players. And to compare baseball, it’s a game lasts 3-4 hours on average with about half the players sitting about half the game at any one time. While the players are in great shape, the main exertions are occasional 90ft sprints and arm strength/quickness.
Mr. Woods is the best player in the world (no debate there). He has raised the bar of competition. He has elevated the sport and drawn the youth of the world towards playing the game. Everyone involved with golf (predominantly professional) has made more money due to his performance than prior to it. In comparison of the game, overall fitness is essential though some are far from intensely fit. There is no running or extreme exertion. A match runs about 3 hours. It is an intense individual competition.
Mr. Beckham is one of the best in the world. Even at his older age, he is considered a star and better than most in his position. He does raise the bar of competition, especially in America where there is no comparable competitor. He does elevate the game, especially in America where there is little attention spent on a game we historically can’t play well at. He does bring the youth to the game, and thus elevating the potential of future players. He does open the door for other quality players to arrive and they too can help to elevate the game and quality of American competition. The game requires a little over 100 minutes of play with starters expected to play virtually the entire game (there are only 3 substitutes per game). The game requires constant sprints across up to the entire 300ft of the pitch. The player must be in extremely good condition with high stamina, strong legs and torsos.
Simply put, soccer gives more and requires more from a player than virtually any other sport. That requires discipline, which most have in abundance at the international level. What doesn’t normally happen are team fights like in baseball and basketball. You don’t see individual fights like in the WWE or hockey. There is no reliance on technology like in NASCAR. Why wouldn’t we want to promote or see the growth of futbol in America?
So in respectful disagreement with Mr. Josh Peter and others that question the price and worth of Mr. Beckham, I say that it is easily worth it. Just in the same way Pele was worth it to re-create a foundation that Team USA was built upon, I think Mr. Beckham will cause future growth. Respectfully to Mr. Dan Wetzel and others that think a more WWE approach is needed to gain an audience I disagree. I don’t think that wonton violence (which is implied in wrestling today) as seen in the MLB and NBA (team and individual fights or those with fans – each of which is a new trend that seems to be growing) is the reason for fans to view a game. I think than many of the youth will be interested, just as Pele motivated Team USA players, and their parents, (I think) that wound up returning America to World Cup competition in a manner never before seen.
Rather than sing doom, wait and see. There is more than enough room for another game in this nation. The WNBA proved that, regardless of its performance. Mr. Woods proved it in golf (that did not have the appeal it now has with him). Maybe, just maybe futbol, or soccer if you prefer, will have the same effect with Mr. Beckham.
This is what I think, what do you think?
There has been international futbol, or soccer, competitions since 1900 (summer Olympics – demonstration only initially, official after 1908). The World Cup has been played 17 times in 76 years. It has only not gone on 2x due to World War II. Current nations capable of qualifying number 207. It IS the most watched sporting event in the world with over a billion viewers. The final in 2002 captured 1/6 the entire population of the planet in 213 countries alone. The U.S. has qualified for games 7 times, with a semi-finalist showing once in 1930, that is the best we have ever done. [I should also mention an error I made previously. The USA did play in 1990, losing every game and I had forgotten it. I incorrectly mentioned in a previous post that the US had not played in a Cup since 1950 until 1994.] Considering the status of the nation and our obvious athletic abilities (as seen in our dominance of Olympics and national sports) to perform so weakly is embarrassing.
That said, I feel the naysaying and negative attitudes of some against the MLS league is sad. Some have questioned the price of acquiring Mr. Beckham. As I understand roughly $150 million of the price is due to sponsorships that are attached to Mr. Beckham no matter where he goes (he will actually be paid $10 million a year by the Galaxy and he gets a percentage of product and ticket sales). Even considering that, the price is not that unheard of. While this does place Mr. Beckham in the number 3 position of highest earning athletes in the world it is not so far out of place in comparison to the $252 million for Mr. Alex Rodriguez (which I understand, perhaps incorrectly, as being without endorsements). At $50 million Mr. Beckham is very close to Mr. Tiger Woods who makes an estimated $80 million per year. Let me compare these individuals.
Mr. Rodriguez is very good, but he is not one of the greatest players in the world. He does play for the best baseball team (debatable I’ll give you) but he does not elevate the sport in the U.S. nor the world. He does not raise the bar of competition in the sport among its players. And to compare baseball, it’s a game lasts 3-4 hours on average with about half the players sitting about half the game at any one time. While the players are in great shape, the main exertions are occasional 90ft sprints and arm strength/quickness.
Mr. Woods is the best player in the world (no debate there). He has raised the bar of competition. He has elevated the sport and drawn the youth of the world towards playing the game. Everyone involved with golf (predominantly professional) has made more money due to his performance than prior to it. In comparison of the game, overall fitness is essential though some are far from intensely fit. There is no running or extreme exertion. A match runs about 3 hours. It is an intense individual competition.
Mr. Beckham is one of the best in the world. Even at his older age, he is considered a star and better than most in his position. He does raise the bar of competition, especially in America where there is no comparable competitor. He does elevate the game, especially in America where there is little attention spent on a game we historically can’t play well at. He does bring the youth to the game, and thus elevating the potential of future players. He does open the door for other quality players to arrive and they too can help to elevate the game and quality of American competition. The game requires a little over 100 minutes of play with starters expected to play virtually the entire game (there are only 3 substitutes per game). The game requires constant sprints across up to the entire 300ft of the pitch. The player must be in extremely good condition with high stamina, strong legs and torsos.
Simply put, soccer gives more and requires more from a player than virtually any other sport. That requires discipline, which most have in abundance at the international level. What doesn’t normally happen are team fights like in baseball and basketball. You don’t see individual fights like in the WWE or hockey. There is no reliance on technology like in NASCAR. Why wouldn’t we want to promote or see the growth of futbol in America?
So in respectful disagreement with Mr. Josh Peter and others that question the price and worth of Mr. Beckham, I say that it is easily worth it. Just in the same way Pele was worth it to re-create a foundation that Team USA was built upon, I think Mr. Beckham will cause future growth. Respectfully to Mr. Dan Wetzel and others that think a more WWE approach is needed to gain an audience I disagree. I don’t think that wonton violence (which is implied in wrestling today) as seen in the MLB and NBA (team and individual fights or those with fans – each of which is a new trend that seems to be growing) is the reason for fans to view a game. I think than many of the youth will be interested, just as Pele motivated Team USA players, and their parents, (I think) that wound up returning America to World Cup competition in a manner never before seen.
Rather than sing doom, wait and see. There is more than enough room for another game in this nation. The WNBA proved that, regardless of its performance. Mr. Woods proved it in golf (that did not have the appeal it now has with him). Maybe, just maybe futbol, or soccer if you prefer, will have the same effect with Mr. Beckham.
This is what I think, what do you think?
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