Saturday, December 26, 2009

Milestone Tradition Ends With Anew – And Resolutions Be Damn.

Milestone birthdays 21st, 30th, 40th, 50th, 55th, and so on usually consist of throwing a big hoorah party with family and friends.  Or perhaps  traveling via a Carnival cruise ship to exotic exciting Barbados, offering endless fun filled days basking in the shimmering glow of the sun while floating on the clam coral blue waters – or digging your toes into the warm white sand as you sit on the beach and sip leisurely on a tall refreshing drink recommended as one of the favorites the local natives enjoy.  However, sometimes traditions are meant to be broken or at least amended.   No need to wait to proclaim a New Year’s resolution, that you may not keep,  instead opt for a gift worth giving onto yourself and others.   That said…

Well, wouldn’t you know it, a milestone birthday for a certain Writer has arrived and not wanting to be a follower or just feeling its time to break with tradition, I’ve decided to give myself one of the best gifts I could possibly give or receive, a self-serving meant to be shared gift - the gift of accomplishment.   In my case, that gift would consist of the completion of my novel;  starting with a jumping off point of publishing 2-4 novellas to be followed by the ultimate goal of accomplishment, so look for it, the suspense (novel) I will soon be sharing.   In the meantime, Happy Birthday to me.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Oh Where oh Where Is Scripted TV, Oh Where oh Where Can It Be?


View reality show pics

With reality television shows springing forth at the speed of sound – and multiplying as fast as rabbits in heat - the list is  endless with titles from A-Z: A Dating Game to zBlow Out.   It is very difficult to select a favorite television show these days, unless its label as a “reality show".  It seems every week a new reality show springs forth designed around someone trying to make a come back or remain in the limelight: Flavor Flav,  Flavor Of Love or Denise Richards, It's Complicated; or some unheard of trying to make a name for themselves: Jon & Kate, The Bachelor, or Wife Swap.   Apparently those that can’t act, do reality shows.   Either way, it is becoming all to familiarly boring.   Most of these shows are just cookie-cutters of one another, basically if you’ve seen one you’ve seen the other.   Ironically, knowingly being followed around by a camera crew, isn’t reality – its really just people performing for a camera at their own home or in a selected setting, footage which is clearly edited for television.  

Someone mention that the reason the boob-tube is bombarded with the screaming hollering foolishness of reality TV is because it is cheaper to produce than scripted television.   What the heck?!  Just because some producers are too cheap to open their wallets does that mean viewers must subscribe to cable or satellite just to see a television series, which is only there in re-run syndication?  Although there seems to be an unbelievable market for the annoyance of  fist fights, hair pulling, cursing, and name calling; Why can’t they air series that speak to the remaining viewing audience in ways that have an entertaining engaging plot or storyline instead of being  reminiscence of a Jerry Springer smack-down episode.   There are a few scripted-series on the air, but clearly reality shows outnumber them hands down.  Its as though the Writers are still on strike, and they’re throwing anything at the viewers.   And what’s being pitched isn’t worth the 30-60 minutes it fills the screen on a weekly basis;  just 5 to 10 minutes into one of these reality shows gives one a great appreciation for books.   Reading is fundamental and an easy way to escape reality,  reality TV that is.
Stay-tuned for additional installments.

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Love That Snow


~ Love That Snow or A Southerner Moves to North/East ~



December  8:  6:00 P.M. It started to snow The first snowfall of the season. The wife and I took our cocktails and sat for hours by the window watching the huge snowflakes drift down from heaven. It looked like a Grandma Moses print.  So romantic. We felt like newlyweds again. I love snow!

December  9:
  We awoke to a beautiful blanket of crystal white
snow covering every inch of the landscape. What a fantastic sight! Can there be a more lovely place in the whole world? Moving here was the best idea I have ever had! Shoveled for the first time in years and felt like a boy again. I did both our driveway and the sidewalks. This afternoon the snowplow came along and covered up the sidewalks and closed in the driveway, so I got to shovel again. What a perfect life!

December 12:
  The sun has melted all our lovely snow. Such a
disappointment. My neighbor tells me not to worry. We willdefinitely have a white Christmas. No snow on Christmas would be awful! Bob says we'll have so much snow by the end of winter, that I'll never want to see snow again. I don't think that is possible. Bob is such a nice man. I'm glad he's our neighbor.

December 14: 
Snow, lovely snow! Eight degrees last night.
The temperature dropped to minus twenty.  The cold makes everything sparkle so. The wind took my breath away, but I warmed up by shoveling the driveway and sidewalks. This is the life! The snowplow came back in the afternoon and buried everything again. I didn't realize that I would have to do quite this much shoveling, but I'll certainly get back in shape this way. I wish I wouldn't huff and puff so much.
December 15:  20 inches forecast. Sold my van and bought a
4x4 Blazer. Bought snow tires for the wife's car and two extra snow shovels. Stocked the freezer too. The wife wants a wood stove in case the electricity goes out. I think she is silly. After all, we aren't in Alaska.

December 16:
  Ice storm this morning. Fell on my rear on the
ice in the driveway while I was trying to put down salt. Hurt like hell. The wife laughed for an hour. I think she's very cruel.

December 17:  Still way below freezing. Roads are too icy to go
anywhere. Electricity was off for 5 hours. I had to pile the blankets on to stay warm. Nothing to do but stare at the wife and try not to irritate her. I guess I should have bought a wood stove, but I won't admit that to her. God, I hate it when she is right. Can't believe I'm freezing to death in my own living room.

December 20:  Electricity's back on, but had another 14" of the
damn stuff last night. More shoveling. Took all day. Damn snowplow came by twice. Tried to find a neighbor kid to shovel, but they said they're too busy playing hockey. I think they are lying. Called the only hardware store around to see about buying a snow blower and they're out. Might have another shipment in March. I think they're lying. Bob says I will have to shovel or the city will bill me. I think he's lying.

December 22: 
Bob was right about a white Christmas because 13
more inches of the white stuff fell today, and it's so cold it probably won't melt until August. Took me 45 minutes to get all dressed to go out to shovel and then I had to pee. By the time I got undressed, peed and dressed again, I was too tired to shovel. I tried to hire Bob who has a plow on his truck for the rest of the winter, but he says he's too busy. I think he's lying.

December 23:
  Only 2" of snow today. And, it warmed up to 0.
The wife wanted me to decorate the front of the house this morning. What is she.....nuts???  Why didn't she tell me to do that a month ago. She said she did, but I think she's lying.

December 24:
  6". Snow packed so hard by the snowplow, I broke
the shovel. I though I was having a heart attack. If I ever catch the SOB who drives that snowplow, I'll drag him through the snow by his family jewels. I know he hides around the corner and waits for me to finish shoveling and than he comes down the street at a 100 miles and hour and throws snow all over where I have just been! Tonight the wife wanted me to sing Christmas Carols with her and open our presents, but I was busy watching for the darn snowplow.

December 25:  Merry Christmas! 20 more inches of the darned slop
tonight. Snowed in. The idea of shoveling makes my blood boil. God, I hate the snow.  Then, the snowplow driver came by and asked for a donation and I hit him over the head with my shovel. The wife says I have  bad attitude. I think she's an idiot. If I have to watch "It's A Wonderful Life" one more time, I'm going to kill her.

December 26:  Still snowed in. Why the heck did I ever move here?
It was all her idea. She's really getting on my nerves.

December 27:  Temperature dropped to -30 and the pipes froze.
 

December 28:  Warmed up to above-50. Still snowed in. The wife is
driving me crazy!!!!!

December 29:  10 more inches of snow. Bob says I have to shovel the
roof or it will collapse. That's the silliest thing I have ever heard. How dumb does he think I am?????

December 30: Roof caved in. The snowplow driver is suing me for a
million dollars for the bump on his head. The wife went home to her mother. 9" predicted.   

December 31:  Set fire to what was left of the house. No more
shoveling.
Author Unknown


 


Friday, December 11, 2009

CASTASTROPHES IN U.S. ARE ALWAYS LESS IMPORTANT Darfur's Situation Is Disturbing, But Action Needed In U.S.


View Darfus's Ruins
Darfur's homeless 
Reading Angelia Jolie’s call for action (in a Newsweek editorial) to the situation in Sudan,  gave me pause for thought.  And although Jolie has some valid points including, “Holding perpetrators of mass atrocities accountable is the best way to ensure justice today and peace in the future.” I wondered who do WE, the American people get to hold accountable for its current and continued catastrophes?
Hopefully Jolie isn’t implying that President Obama should wage yet a third war against Sudan.  As there has been quite enough unnecessary bloodshed to last all mankind a lifetime.   Though American citizens seem to think we are the saviors to each and every war torn nation,  it is quite apparent the U.S. didn’t learn very much from the Vietnam war, practically the need to value American lives as much as some seem to think the U.S. should value the lives of Foreign countries – tragically other nations  don’t seem to be duty-bound  nor compelled to save our U.S. Troops that are still being sacrificed in Iraq and Afghanistan; yet we (America) are suppose to feel obligated to do so for others.  America by no means needs to become involved in yet another war in an effort to save yet another country unwilling or inapt to fight its own battles.  Simply put, we don’t need more slain U.S. Troops,  more American widows/widowers,  nor do we need more American orphans.
Appreciate that (we) Americans are not heartless human beings and as incredibly disturbing as the situation in Darfur may be,  it needs to be understood that the situation here in the United States of America is incredibly disturbing as well, and if we don’t get help soon – we may very well become another third world country whose seeking the help Darfur supporters are demanding from us now.
A reader replied to Jolie’s editorial with: “…we are and should be the President's first priority.  He is the President of the United States and serves the American people first.”   That in and of itself is a truth far too many seem to forget; and that is what should be inscribed on U.S. Currency, as a reminder to everyone who has forgotten which country the President of the United States presides over.  “… I will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”  Just wondering when the United States will take precedence over all others.
While Jolie is calling for action from the White House, just wondering if, General Martin Luther Agway the Nigerian military officer and commander of the combined United Nations-African Union peacekeeping force in Darfur still believes what he said, a week before he was scheduled to leave Darfur? When he declared that the genocide in Darfur was over.  "…people trying to resolve issues over water and land at a local level. But real war as such, I think we are over that."
In Jolie’s Newsweek editorial, she offers recommendations to improve the U.N. Security Council's responsiveness, ‘while urging the United States to make clear its willingness to act on its own if necessary’.  Some may take issue with the latter of her suggestion.  If the U.S. chooses to stand alone, they could very well be setting themselves up for isolation and destruction.  You can not retain allies (in or outside the UN) if you refuse to maintain alliances with them.  With that said…
As we continue to save the world, Jolie as well as others that support (all)causes abroad, may wish to keep in mind, that at some point the United States will have to consider taking care of the United States and the citizens that reside on U.S. soil.
View Detroit's Ruins
Detroit’s Ruins
photo above shows a homeless man encased in ice
Clearly we can’t solve the world’s problems in a single blog post or a 30-minute episode as they did in television’s yester-year, nor can it be done in the first year tenure of a Presidency, so until the next episode, lets just continue to make an effort…

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Author, Writer, or Pimped?


For as far back as I can remember I’ve always had a great passion for reading the works of other Authors and for story-telling in and of itself, so much so that I genuinely thought I wanted to become an Author – and I still do wish to become a published Author.  However, several years later and still without my own published works, other than a 52 page gift book of, Short engaging quotes of love and affection, Internet Marketing projects, and Content writing projects; realization is beginning to sink in – how can I complete a novel when I don’t even seem to be able to compose a freakin blog post without wanting to pull out my hair.  Am I trying too hard or not hard enough?  Am I inapt or just haven’t found my true Author’s voice yet?  I’ve never wanted to give up my heart’s desire, I’m just wondering if I have the capabilities of fulfilling my dream.
What the heck made me think I could write, or continue to write and make a living out of doing it?  Just because I love doing it, just because nothing else I’ve ever done in life has made me feel this charged.  Is it enough to eat, sleep, and breathe the written word?  Or is an Author truly something special – are they born or breed to be such?  I not certain, I just know I’ve spend numerous years professing my desire to become a published Author – I have several unfinished manuscripts.  I’ve even gone so far as to proclaim that I am a Freelance Writer, starting my own writing service – which initially wasn’t doing as well as I’d hope, but has started looking more promising, and I will commit to a serious marketing campaign before the end of the year to ensure that in 2010 the business will have a higher success rate.  In the mean time, I’m curious, how the heck do people think of the zillions of tantalizing topics they post to the zillions of blogs, on a daily basis without spending endless amounts of time thinking of what to write, not to mention the research involved and still have time to devote to serious writing or to their regular job?  Do they have some magical writing program that I can purchase, do they have a new revised Thesaurus that I don’t have access to, or is it simply a talented gift they possess, that is far beyond my grasp?  I’m wondering too, if I missed a step because I’m not making the mass amount of income that other Writers profess to be reaping.  Don’t get me wrong, I have found some success with Internet Marketing, Reputation Management, and the SEO services that I offer, and although Internet usage has been on the rise for some time now, writing projects seem to have become quite lean during the last few years, especially when it comes to the pay rate.   In an effort to supplement my income, I’ve begin searching the web for writing jobs, and there are quite a number of them listed.   The only thing is, the pay rate for those jobs is insulting.  I have never been naive about the financial riches rewarded to Authors/Writers, but lets be honest, .01¢ - .05¢/wd is freakin ridiculous.  At those rates, I guess I’m not a Writer; and as far as I’m concerned anyone who agrees to write for rates so ridiculously low can’t consider themselves Writers either, and I can pretty much guarantee an Author would never compromise themselves or skills to write for pennies a word.  I may not be able to write the next best-seller right now, or be the greatest Internet Marketing Writer on the planet, but I know what pimping is, and any employer offering pennies for a writing project is attempting to pimp the Writer, and obviously isn’t expecting quality work. 
I recently responded to an ad for a “Social Media/Website/Blog writer”, and received the following response from the poster after inquiring about the rate for said writing project: “I'm not looking for someone who applies for a job with negativity on their tongue.”  This coming from a guy too lazy or inapt to even bother to capitalize the word “I” throughout his four paragraph response, in which he still neglected to answer my question.  BTW, here’s my inquiry: “I would like to know what the rate or project budget will be for this assignment? If the rate is at an insulting penny per word rate, I must thank you but I really wouldn't be interested in participating.”  Perhaps its me, but I don’t read negativity in my request to know how much I’d be paid for providing unique content that would enhance someone’s business.  I’ve wasted too much of my time and effort applying and submitting samples only to learn the job pays only $3 apiece for 375-400 word articles that as the ad expressed, “expects each of them can pass the scrutiny of Google's duplicate contact checker”  or $1 for a 500 word article.  I’m trying to write and earn a reasonable wage doing so, and although I follow a blog entitled Chrystal’s Corner, I can assure you I wasn’t standing on it when I applied for any of the writing assignments, so what makes these employers think they can pimp me or any other Writer?  Check out the interesting answer about rates from Chrystal Online as well as, one of the employers: “If you want to thank someone for reformatting the sweatshop for the white-collar, work-at-home, 21st century world, thank Google ... it's all an unintended consequence of the Adword and Adsense bastardization of the Web.”
There is a difference between an Author and a Writer – a Writer wrote this post, the Author is still seeking the realization of a dream – publication of a novel, neither wishes to be pimped at pennies per word.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Cage’s Hardship Is A Little Cagey

According to People Magazine,  45 year old Nicolas Cage, who filed a lawsuit blaming his financial collapse on his longtime business partner, had his two historic French Quarter homes purchased in a foreclosure auction on Thursday.  People Magazine also reported that the houses went for $4.5 million – about two-thirds the appraised value – to Cage's lender, Regions bank, the lone bidder.  Cage's belongings were seen being cleared out by movers on Friday.

And why didn't he take some responsibility regarding his own finances? No one should be too busy to double check the person handling their money.  Just ask Oprah, who has always urged celebrities & others to keep an eye on your own money. 

whine publicly about not being smart enough to keep an eye on his own assets.  I also find it difficult to support the “I’m broke” pity-party of someone pulling down 38 million dollars on one movie.  Geez! He could feed a small country on that salary.

“The lawsuit said the advisor had also failed to alert Cage to the fact that his money was running out, and had over-extended his lines of credit with banks.”

Again, I must point out to those like Cage who don’t seem to know it, but being rich does not negate you from being responsible for your own finances.   If you think you are too important, busy, or wealthy to keep an eye on your own money, than clearly you don’t really deserve to complain when it’s gone.   How is it that there are some so-called stars who can’t seem to be able to handle their own lives without an entourage of assistants, advisors, housekeepers, and what-nots?  When there are so many others who don’t seem to have an issue with handling their own affairs, or keeping an eye on those they’ve hired to do it for them.   Perhaps he should take a page from the book(s) of Oprah, who has stated on numerous occasions, “You must keep an eye on your own money.” Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, and others who also follow a similar philosophy.   I could be wrong, but I’m almost certain the aforementioned are as busy, if not busier than Nick Cage.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Mad Men’s Betty Draper’s Ordeal - Depression or Selfishness?

You do not have to be a television couch-potato, to become a die-hard fan of Mad Men (aka MM) all it seems to take is your undivided attention to an episode – and you could very well become hooked.  Most baby-boomers can appreciate how well the series’ managers to capture the ambiance of the 60s era.  And everyone else can just appreciate the opportunity to be transported back in time and experience what they weren’t able to first-hand.

Writer, Susan Weissman’s recent (11 November 2009) article in The Huffington Post, posed a question that ask, if the alluring Betty Draper  character would smile before next season’s final episodeBetty Draper - Mad Men,   Well, since the third season finale aired Sunday 8 November 2009, and it was a tantalizing cliff-hanging finale, with the promise of a phenomenal fourth season; it’s probably safe to say that MM fans are more interested in the start of the fourth season next year, as oppose to the final episode.

As for Betts (as her husband Don refers to her as), she's what some refer to as spoiled and self-centered.  Most women like Betty who were so use to having the spotlight shone on them that they can't bare to have anyone else upstage them in the attention category, including their own children - so they create a dramatic/depressed atmosphere, starring none other than themselves.  It appears that Betty doesn't smile often because she wants someone to ask her what they can do for her or give to her to make her smile.  Perhaps she is frustrated with her life, because she's not doing much to contribute to her own happiness.

Anyway,  Betts appears to be going from one open-wallet to another  with her latest human-ATM, Hunter, the only thing is, she's not really taking much to the table is she? No, she's a pampered brat who does not work outside the home, but has the nerve to drink and smoke while watching her housekeeper cook, clean, & care for her children.  Yet, she still can't seem to find a way to accomplish any goal she may have had or find anything meaningful to do with her endless free time.

Stripper Nicole Forrester vs Josh Duhamel – By Any Means Necessary.

What's interesting about the story that appeared on Huffington Post, is that anyone would actually find the antagonist, Nicole NICOLE-FORRESTERForrester interesting. 

Strippers are a dime a dozen - they can be found on almost any corner in any major city. What makes one stripper stand out from the others, is when she manipulates, schemes, and managers to get her name in the media by any means necessary.

Nicole, isn't the first gold-digger-stripper who claims to have sex with a well known celebrity in order to get her name on the D-list of Hollywood in an effort to work (oops) her way up to the C-list, nor is she the first, nor will she be the last, to think that any publicity is worth it's weight toward become famous - even if the fame is only as a D-list low-life-wanna-be, party girl that no one takes seriously and too many have had (yuck!). The question shouldn't be if he was good/bad in bed, but what was truly the motive of publicly stating that she had sex (regardless if its true) with Josh Duhamel? To become the buzz of the moment? Well, buzz buzz the moment is over for most, and should just be over.

You can also read the entire Extra story

Stripper Nicole Forrester vs Josh Duhamel – By Any Means Necessary.

What's interesting about the story that appeared on Huffington Post, is that anyone would actually find the antagonist, Nicole NICOLE-FORRESTERForrester interesting. 

Strippers are a dime a dozen - they can be found on almost any corner in any major city. What makes one stripper stand out from the others, is when she manipulates, schemes, and managers to get her name in the media by any means necessary.

Nicole, isn't the first gold-digger-stripper who claims to have sex with a well known celebrity in order to get her name on the D-list of Hollywood in an effort to work (oops) her way up to the C-list, nor is she the first, nor will she be the last, to think that any publicity is worth it's weight toward become famous - even if the fame is only as a D-list low-life-wanna-be, party girl that no one takes seriously and too many have had (yuck!). The question shouldn't be if he was good/bad in bed, but what was truly the motive of publicly stating that she had sex (regardless if its true) with Josh Duhamel? To become the buzz of the moment? Well, buzz buzz the moment is over for most, and should just be over.

You can also read the entire Extra story

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

DISTRACTED DRIVERS BEWARE, OR BE BANNED!

Contributing post by Chrystal Dorsey

Driver distractions caused by cellular phone usage has become increasingly important as cell phone use becomes more prevalent in daily life. Some people are torn on where they stand, because both sides can easily be favorably argued.  There are countless studies citing reasons for banning cell phone usage including, a University of Utah study that shows conversing on cell phones while driving disrupts the driver's attention to the visual environment, or the inability to recognize objects encountered in the driver's visual field.  Additionally they state that cell phone conversations create much higher levels of driver distractions than listening to the radio or audio books.  Clearly they’ve not studied the numerous motorists who engage in vehicular-dancing while listening to the latest Rock n' Roll or R&B release kicking through their stereo system.  There are drivers that periodically give a live concert whenever they hear a song with a serious beat -We've all seen them, their head and arms are so animated you wonder who's actually steering the vehicle. In all honesty, how can you not bob your head when Beyonce's "Ring the Alarm" or Pink's "So What"  blares through the speakers?  Nevertheless, vehicular-dancing while listening to the car stereo is also a distraction.  Ooops, dare we let that cat out of the bag, they just may decide to ban radios from vehicles.

Admittedly, there are some hazards to cell phone usage during the operation of a motor vehicle, especially texting which requires you to visually focus on the phone's keyboard, instead of on the road, where the driver's focus belongs.  But despite all the cons against, there are some pros as cell phones have become a valuable tool in conducting business as more employees are using them to perform their jobs.  Among other things, they help boost productivity by keeping employees connected to the office and to clients; not to mention the invaluable use during road side emergencies.  Let us not forget there are very few if any, public phones available especially on highways and local freeways.   The point being, there can be safe, sensible, responsible use for a cell phone for a brief period of time.  Short comments  "I've run out of gas" or "I'm on my way."; not long lengthy or heated discussions.  And Just as there is an appropriate time, there is an inappropriate time to use a cell phone in the car, as in, heavy traffic, bad weather and stressful conversations for examples.  The major distracting menace when it comes to cell phone usage is texting; no one should be texting while operating a motor vehicle, it’s a serious and potentially deadly hazard.  Therefore, it would be prudent to ban that particular function, not talking.  Geez! How uncoordinated must you be not to be able to steer a vehicle and speak at the same time.  Of course one would argue that there are a number of individuals who can’t manage to do so, but the majority of those individuals should not be driving under any circumstances.  If your motor skills are in general operational order, you shouldn't have any difficulty uttering a few short words on a cell phone.  Besides, there are hands-free devices readily available for every cell phone on the market. 

According to studies conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), some form of driver distraction is a contributing factor in 20 to 30 percent of all crashes.  Numbers such as these are enough to lean toward the side of banning cell phones while driving.  However, some data tells a different story, a much more comprehensive University of North Carolina study found that cell-phone use was responsible for only 1.5 percent of distracted driving accidents - completely contrary to popular belief.  And a Harvard study gauge accidents caused by cell phones at 6 percent of the total.   Much larger risks were outside events, other occupants in the vehicle and drivers adjusting radio and CD players. Therefore, most people, especially cell phone providers urge against jumping into cell-phone bans without careful consideration of the entire picture.  Merely talking on a cell phone doesn't necessarily mean the phone contributed to an accident.  Distracted driving is responsible for many accidents.  But honest statistics imply that cell-phone use in vehicles accounts for only a very small percentage of those accidents, and that most drivers use handheld cell phones safely while driving.

Cell phones are being unfairly singled out from a raft of other potential distractions that could affect safety.

There is no way to eliminate all driving distractions, but if they wish to ban some of the causes let’s not stop at cell phone use.  There are a number of distractions or unsafe actions that drivers should restrain from doing; including reading newspapers or books, putting on make-up, especially eye make-up; shaving; eating; searching for items on the seat or floor; watching television or movies and more.  Common sense should factor into one’s actions while operating a motor vehicle.  And of course, any action that impedes a driver’s performance should be met with consequences during the initial offense, not, and only after a life has been taken. 

Undoubtedly, one of the biggest hazards on the road, second to the most dangerous of all offenders – the drunk drivers, are drivers who keep their pets on their laps and allow them to protrude from the driver's side window while the vehicle is in operation.  Not only does it put the animal at risk of falling out of a moving vehicle, it is a serious driver distraction.  Odd as it may seem to other motorists whose life is being jeopardized by this risky action, this driving activity is not illegal! Nor will a police officer arrest you if you can't bear to part with your precious four-legged canine or feline during your driving escapades.  However, in most states if your pet causes you to drive in an unsafe manner you could be cited under the state's Negligent Driving law for endangering people or property.  Undeniably, a loose pet is a greater hazard than speaking on a cell phone and there should be a ban on driving with pets running rapid in the vehicle, or sitting on the driver's lap.  There have been countless times when driver's have been spotted wrestling to gain control over a moving pet seated on their lap.  Not only is the driver's sight impaired, but they lose the ability to maintain control over the vehicle, because their hands are full trying to restrain the animal.  Nothing personal against pets, but seriously, it's better for all concerned if pets were left at home, transported via a carrier, or merely placed in some sort of pet restraint in the back seat.

Perhaps educating and training drivers on a regular routine basis would be a more logical method for reducing accidents involving motor vehicles.

Banning cell phones may not be the solution, perhaps banning inapt drivers would be more beneficial.  Some drivers are just plain ignorant to the rules of the road and cause havoc wherever they go and they do so without the use of a cell phone.  They simply can not drive.  Our efforts shouldn't be toward banning particular activities, be it cell-phone use, eating, or other common behaviors.  Rather, we should be enforcing laws against the real problem, distracted and/or unskilled driving in general.

Frankly, there are far too many drivers who have no business behind the wheel of a motor vehicle, because they honestly just can’t drive.  There are individuals who’ve never had a driver’s education course or any structured training, yet they managed to obtain an operator’s license; there are individuals who can’t even manage to steer a golf cart without causing or encountering problems, yet these individuals are issued a valid driver’s license, though their skills are anything but valid.  Let’s face it, road menaces are all around us and surprisingly a great deal of them aren’t banishing a notorious cell phone. 

Perhaps it’s not the use of cell phones that is the issue, perhaps the main reason lies with the number of inapt drivers on our road ways; one method to reduce accidents may be to reduce the number of inexperience drivers by increasing the road skills requirements.  A fool-proof method may not exist that will eliminate the number of unsuitable drivers,  but perhaps they could start by implementing mandatory driver’s education classes for all first time drivers regardless of age and 30 days of practice should be a part of the course.  Additionally, to ensure drivers continue to operate under the state guidelines, perhaps licensed drivers should also be required to pass a road test at the time of each license renewal.

Finally, the way I see it, if anyone has the need to use a cell phone while in their car, the following simple safety tips may help:

  • Use a hands-free phone.
  • Never compose text messages while driving.
  • Always dial while the car isn't moving.
  • Never use the phone in heavy traffic or bad weather.
  • Use speed dialing as much as possible.
  • Never look up phone numbers while driving.
  • Never have stressful conversations while driving.
  • Keep your eyes on the road while on the phone.
  • STOP TXTING WHL DRVG IT SHUD B ILGL

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Celebrity Twitters Don't Interact or Support Their Followers


twitter
Faye was acutely aware that she did not have very many Tweeter friends compared to those who boast of hundreds even unbelievably thousands.  She did however think, the few that she had would rally their support for a good cause when called upon or needed.  Well to her disappointing surprise she learn that was not the case when she attempted to gain voter support for a great job opportunity.
And let’s not leave out the number of people she actually follows on Twitter, whose stats she help to increase and causes she supported.  Yet when called upon to do something as simple as cast 1 vote toward an employment opportunity, none seem to find the time to make one simple click.  Perhaps it was her approach, perhaps it was her lack of celebrity status, but whatever the case may be, it prove to be an eye-opener.  She’s vowed to definitely think twice about supporting all the endless status increasing causes, hosted by celebrities.
Celebrities need authenticity to rule on Twitter
It appears that celebrities will request, summon, and bait you to support and/or follow them, but they can not return the favor unless you are in one of their exclusive celebrity circles.
You can follow aplusk, his wife mrskutcher, or iamdiddy all you want; you can even select the infamous ‘share this’ share buttonbutton so you’ll be sure not to miss out on promoting their efforts through retweets, stumble up, buzz, share it , and others; but unless you’ve appeared in the media, movies, or are a personal friend, your changes of getting a response, let along gaining any support from certain Tweeters is zero.
Ashton Kutcher is one of the most popular users with more than 3 million Twitter followers and Faye and I, like so many other non-celebrities helped him to achieve his Twitter-crown during his self-promoting campaign earlier this year to have the most followers.  But while he sits on his Tweeter-throne with the most followers, because the public took the time to answer his challenge/request, it is highly unlikely that he’d take a moment of his time to do the same for one of his many loyal followers – unless they are a celebrity.
Not only do Faye and I help celebrities gain follower status, by following, which is our choice, we also promote them and their activities on their other sites, like, UncleRUSH and his global grind.com blog site.
Don’t think for one minute that I think any of these people owe me or Faye anything, nor am I hoping to become their best friend, but for some insane reason Faye like myself thought that they would at least acknowledge important requests from their followers; our mistake.
Not all Celebrity Tweeters ignore their followers; stars like @bubblecow@levarburton@MC Hammer, @SherriShepherd@THE_REAL_SHAQ , or  @chriswebb participate actively on Twitter and interact with the users.  Tweeters like these are the ones you may wish to follow and cultivate a friendship/relationship with, because there is a stronger possibility they will become your supportive and friendly followers as well.
I’m not suggesting that anyone boycott or that they shouldn’t support the request of celebrity tweeters – just know they’re not likely to support yours.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

THINK TWICE BEFORE YOU CLICK ON THAT!

image Members of Facebook, Twitter, or any other social networking site, you have been warned; you could be the next targeted victim.  There is a goldmine of personal information on social networking sites and cyber-thieves are cashing in on it.  Don’t let them get your information – think twice before you click on that!

FacebookAll you have do is click it, and you’ll open up that hilarious video of Aunt Bunny falling down the stairs at the family cook-out, it’s just a harmless funny video that your best Facebook buddy wanted you to see;  However when that message or link is opened, the user is lured to fake Web sites that trick them into divulging personal details and passwords.  The phishing attack can penetrate the users’ accounts without their knowledge or consent.  And once that happens, the thieves can continue to penetrate the users’ list of friends or contacts and repeat the attack on consequent victims.

Although you may only hear of a small percentage, malicious thieves are constantly attacking social networking sites.  The continued growth of users on the social networks has made the networks extremely profitable for cyber-criminals and with Facebook users boasting of 150 friends or more; it’s like a smorgasbord of potential victims for the cyber-thieves.

Internet crimes have been around since the inception of the World Wide Web, and malicious software and viruses were usually the result of a prank.  But now, the most common form of malware attack has become known as drive-by downloads. While surfing on Google or Yahoo, a computer virus or spyware is automatically and invisibly downloaded on a computer, requiring no interaction from the user for the computer to be infected.

Not since the abundance of social networking sites and their members has internet crime been so prevalent.  Facebook alone boast that it has a whopping 300 million users, and Twitter, a micro-social-blogging site, has grown to more than 7 million users.

Be mindful of the enticements rampant on such sites as Facebook; you know the ones, claiming that one of your friends has the highest IQ score of the day of 140; he/she wants you to try to beat it.  When they’ve never even seen the quiz let along taken it and challenged you.  Also are those never ending applications that “need to access your account information” in order for you to continue or use it.  And we all know too well from the countless media reports that putting personal photos on any public domain is risky – that innocent pic of you on the sofa is easily Photoshop to show you nude in a compromising situation – for resale on a porn site.

There are a number of reasons Cybercriminals are using phishing attacks, including trying to obtain private information, such as bank account numbers and passwords to perform even greater scams. They also try to redirect users to sites where profit is feed by the number of visitors.  There was even a phishing attack involving one of the popular social sites in which a duplicate of their widely recognized light blue page was used in a hoax. To avoid situations such as this, users should always double-check the URL to ensure they are visiting the correct site.

twitter

Social networks are aggressively fighting back against the attacks from cybercriminals. Most sites have information pages dedicated to educating users about the risks of Internet scams. One of the most common pieces of advice given by security experts is to change passwords frequently.  Facebook has also developed complex automated systems that detect compromised accounts. They spot and freeze accounts that are sending an unusually high number of messages to their friends; and will even go as far as to delete the account.  Ultimately users must be responsible and utilize care while on the Internet, especially when exchanging personal information.  I’m not telling you to delete your social network accounts, just suggesting you use caution while socializing.  If you didn’t request it, or recognize it, think twice before you click on it!

Helpful hints (Provided by FBI and Internet security experts) to protect you against internet scams:

  • Be careful what you click on
  • Change your passwords frequently
  • Adjust Web site privacy settings
  • Be selective when adding friends
  • Limit access to your profile to contacts you trust
  • Disable options such as photo sharing
  • Learn how &  report a compromised account
  • Use security software that updates automatically

If you should ever find yourself the unfortunate victim of Internet Fraud/Theft, here are some links that may be helpful.

BEING RICH/WEATLHY DOES NOT GRANT YOU ABSOLUTION NOR DOES IT NEGATE YOU FROM RESPONSIBILITY

There are far too many hunger, homeless, and unemployment people in America. So when I read articles as those written on: Cage, Rajaratnam, and Lohan; I must admit that to some degree it unnerves me a bit, to think that for some insane reason these individuals somehow think (or behave in a matter) that being rich grants them absolution or negates them from being responsible for their actions, deeds, or affairs. And by no means do I think all rich or wealthy people behave or think along these lines. But there are a number of them that seem to think it’s their God-given right to do so.

First, although I was once a loyal fan of Nicolas Cage I find it

disturbing that someone of his Nicolas Cagesupposedly intelligence could whine publicly about not being smart enough to keep an eye on his own assets. I also find it difficult to support the “I’m broke” pity-party of someone pulling down 38 million dollars on one movie. Geez! He could feed a small country on that salary.

Among other things one of the statements in the article that really stands out for me is,

“The lawsuit said the advisor had also failed to alert Cage to the fact that his money was running out, and had over-extended his lines of credit with banks.”

Again, I must point out to those like Cage who don’t seem to know it, but being rich does not negate you from being responsible for your own finances. If you think you are too important, busy, or wealthy to keep an eye on your own money, than clearly you don’t really deserve to complain when it’s gone. How is it that there are some so-called stars who can’t seem to be able to handle their own lives without an entourage of assistants, advisors, housekeepers, and what-nots? When there are so many others who don’t seem to have an issue with handling their own affairs, or keeping an eye on those they’ve hired to do it for them. Take a page from the book(s) of Oprah, who has stated on numerous occasions, “You must keep an eye on your own money.” Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, and others also follow this philosophy; I’m almost certain the aforementioned are much busier than Nick Cage.

“Cage claimed that his recently-fired business manager had failed to pay taxes when they were due and had placed him in speculative and risky real estate investments "resulting in (the actor) suffering catastrophic losses."

Are Cage and others like him so special they aren’t required to sign a tax return? If not, then it should have occurred to Cage that if he hadn’t signed a return, one had not been filed. I realize for some it is easier to blame others for any and everything that may have gone wrong within your life; but how do you justify blaming or suing someone else for your neglect and foolishness – the police will tell you, that “ignorance is no excuse” for not obeying a law. Granted if someone within your trusted entourage of advisors steals from you, they should be sued and made to repay, but if its bad advice and you accept it, then that’s on you.

As much confidence as I have in my extremely knowledgeable financial advisor, J. Williams; if he were to suggest that I invest in the failed Circuit City stores, I’d be a fool to do so.

In August 2007, Lindsay Lohan was ordered to complete an 18-month alcohol education program, serve 24 hours in jail and perform 10 days Lindsay Lohan1of community service while on 36 months probation for drunk driving, reckless driving and driving under the influence of cocaine. You know the story.

However, because of Lohan’s lack of responsibility, Judge Revel added one year to Lohan's sentence so she could finish the program and suggested the actress complete it as soon as possible. The 23-year-old actress's attorney, Shawn Chapman Holley, told the judge that Lohan's absences stemmed from a miscommunication between her and program administrators. Again, although she’s rich and has the funds to hire an expensive attorney, stylish, etc. she still has to be held responsible and accountable for her own affairs and actions.

Finally, we come to Rajaratnam 52, considered the richest Sri Lankan in the world, was arrested for conspiring with Intel Capital treasury department managing director Rajiv Goel and Anil Kumar, a director of McKinsey & Co. The alleged offenses took place over Rajaratnamthree years

starting in January 2006. The scheme made more than $20 million in illegal profits over several years.

Rajaratnam was released on a $100 million personal recognizance bond secured by $20 million in cash and property. Clearly he’s not hurting for money, but for some bizarre reason he seems to think he’s above following the rules regarding “insider trading” because foolishness and greed will make you ignore the rules as well as the obvious.

All six were charged with securities fraud and conspiracy in two criminal complaints filed in U.S. District Court in Manhattan. Kumar was permitted to be released on a $5 million bond, Kurland on a $3 million bond, and Moffat and Chiesi on a $2 million bond. In California, Goel posted $300,000 cash for bail. The six were also charged in a separate civil complaint by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC said the accused traded on insider information from 10 companies.

Interesting to note, was the prosecutor’s warning shot for the rest of Wall Street, "Today, tomorrow, next week, the week after, privileged Wall Street insiders who are considering breaking the law will have to ask themselves one important question: Is law enforcement listening?" he said. But how effective it will be for the other privileged-law-breakers, is yet to be seen.

In conclusion, a child is a responsibility to its parents. As is being responsible is a requirement of an adult. Responsibility, as defined is an instance of being responsible (accountable): as such, there has to be some degree of accountability for one’s own affairs. Therefore, Cage, Lohan, and Rajaratnam the responsibility for this mess is ultimately yours!

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

BEING RICH/WEATLHY DOES NOT GRANT YOU ABSOLUTION NOR DOES IT NEGATE YOU FROM RESPONSIBILITY

View Being Rich

There are far too many hunger, homeless, and unemployment people in America. So when I read articles as those written on: Cage, Rajaratnam, and Lohan; I must admit that to some degree it unnerves me a bit, to think that for some insane reason these individuals somehow think (or behave in a matter) that being rich grants them absolution or negates them from being responsible for their actions, deeds, or affairs. And by no means do I think all rich or wealthy people behave or think along these lines. But there are a number of them that seem to think it’s their God-given right to do so.

First, although I was once a loyal fan of Nicolas Cage I find it

disturbing that someone of his Nicolas Cagesupposedly intelligence could whine publicly about not being smart enough to keep an eye on his own assets. I also find it difficult to support the “I’m broke” pity-party of someone pulling down 38 million dollars on one movie. Geez! He could feed a small country on that salary.

Among other things one of the statements in the article that really stands out for me is,

“The lawsuit said the advisor had also failed to alert Cage to the fact that his money was running out, and had over-extended his lines of credit with banks.”

Again, I must point out to those like Cage who don’t seem to know it, but being rich does not negate you from being responsible for your own finances. If you think you are too important, busy, or wealthy to keep an eye on your own money, than clearly you don’t really deserve to complain when it’s gone. How is it that there are some so-called stars who can’t seem to be able to handle their own lives without an entourage of assistants, advisors, housekeepers, and what-nots? When there are so many others who don’t seem to have an issue with handling their own affairs, or keeping an eye on those they’ve hired to do it for them. Take a page from the book(s) of Oprah, who has stated on numerous occasions, “You must keep an eye on your own money.” Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, and others also follow this philosophy; I’m almost certain the aforementioned are much busier than Nick Cage.

“Cage claimed that his recently-fired business manager had failed to pay taxes when they were due and had placed him in speculative and risky real estate investments "resulting in (the actor) suffering catastrophic losses."

Are Cage and others like him so special they aren’t required to sign a tax return? If not, then it should have occurred to Cage that if he hadn’t signed a return, one had not been filed. I realize for some it is easier to blame others for any and everything that may have gone wrong within your life; but how do you justify blaming or suing someone else for your neglect and foolishness – the police will tell you, that “ignorance is no excuse” for not obeying a law. Granted if someone within your trusted entourage of advisors steals from you, they should be sued and made to repay, but if its bad advice and you accept it, then that’s on you.

As much confidence as I have in my extremely knowledgeable financial advisor, J. Williams; if he were to suggest that I invest in the failed Circuit City stores, I’d be a fool to do so.

In August 2007, Lindsay Lohan was ordered to complete an 18-month alcohol education program, serve 24 hours in jail and perform 10 days Lindsay Lohan1of community service while on 36 months probation for drunk driving, reckless driving and driving under the influence of cocaine. You know the story.

However, because of Lohan’s lack of responsibility, Judge Revel added one year to Lohan's sentence so she could finish the program and suggested the actress complete it as soon as possible. The 23-year-old actress's attorney, Shawn Chapman Holley, told the judge that Lohan's absences stemmed from a miscommunication between her and program administrators. Again, although she’s rich and has the funds to hire an expensive attorney, stylish, etc. she still has to be held responsible and accountable for her own affairs and actions.

Finally, we come to Rajaratnam 52, considered the richest Sri Lankan in the world, was arrested for conspiring with Intel Capital treasury department managing director Rajiv Goel and Anil Kumar, a director of McKinsey & Co. The alleged offenses took place over Rajaratnamthree years

starting in January 2006. The scheme made more than $20 million in illegal profits over several years.

Rajaratnam was released on a $100 million personal recognizance bond secured by $20 million in cash and property. Clearly he’s not hurting for money, but for some bizarre reason he seems to think he’s above following the rules regarding “insider trading” because foolishness and greed will make you ignore the rules as well as the obvious.

All six were charged with securities fraud and conspiracy in two criminal complaints filed in U.S. District Court in Manhattan. Kumar was permitted to be released on a $5 million bond, Kurland on a $3 million bond, and Moffat and Chiesi on a $2 million bond. In California, Goel posted $300,000 cash for bail. The six were also charged in a separate civil complaint by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC said the accused traded on insider information from 10 companies.

Interesting to note, was the prosecutor’s warning shot for the rest of Wall Street, "Today, tomorrow, next week, the week after, privileged Wall Street insiders who are considering breaking the law will have to ask themselves one important question: Is law enforcement listening?" he said. But how effective it will be for the other privileged-law-breakers, is yet to be seen.

In conclusion, a child is a responsibility to its parents. As is being responsible is a requirement of an adult. Responsibility, as defined is an instance of being responsible (accountable): as such, there has to be some degree of accountability for one’s own affairs. Therefore, Cage, Lohan, and Rajaratnam the responsibility for this mess is ultimately yours!

Friday, October 2, 2009

And Away We Go

I'm not certain why, but I've created another blog. Its not as if I have nothing better to do but blog, then again, what's better than blogging - today, nothing. Anyway, I thought the blog's title was much too good to pass up. So here I have yet another blog site for me to maintain and post something interesting that someone other than myself would actually like to read. The up side to this blog is that I can write about anything here and it will be considered ultimate, why because the blog title states that it is. I look forward to posting some content worthy of your time. And away we go...

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Lush Life

Upon hearing that President Obama would be covering a substantial amount of literary ground while vacationing on Martha’s Vineyard; I decided to choose one of the five selections on the President’s reading list. I chose Richard Prices’ Lush Life, and I must say I am enjoying it more than I’d initially anticipated. Price’s masterful dialogue is captivating and the story riveting. This 455 pager is a must read.

And if you really want to become immersed, I suggest utilizing Audible.com or another audio-book source to listen while following along in the book. The narrator, Bobby Cannavale used by audible.com for Lush Life is shamelessly by far the most excellent audio match for the author’s text. His expertise almost makes you want to forgo the read, but don’t, because this book is quite worthy of the read. Regardless of which format you decide to choose, just be certain to explore this ‘tale of two lower east sides: one a high-priced bohemia, te other a home to hardship, its residents pushed to the edges of their time-honored turf.’


Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Mad Men Is On Point

When Mad Men debuted on AMC in 2007 it quickly became one of the most talked about series on television. The show set in 1960ish New York, focuses on the men and women of Madison Avenue Advertising. The show even made history as the first series to win an Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series; it also won Golden Globe’s Best Television Series – Drama.

One interesting element of the show is that there is a tremendous amount of cigarette smoking throughout each episode, depicting how rampant cigarette smoking was during that era; in the boardroom, the bedroom, and shall we gasp?, even pregnant women; which makes you wonder how/why everyone growing up in the 60s isn’t dead or suffering from cigarette-related cancer of some sorts. The series’ recreation is so on point you can almost feel the burning sensation in your eyes that takes you back to the days of smoked-filled rooms clouded with Camels and Kools.

The show has developed in to such a pop-cultural phenomenon with such a passionate fan base Mad Men continues to surpass everyone’s expectations with each new episode. And the record 4.5 Maddicts viewers tuning into the premiere Season 3, were delighted to learn that the show has been picked up just three episodes into the current season. The captivating world of Sterling Cooper will be back on AMC again next year." said Charlie Collier, president and general manager of AMC. And just in case you’re new to this television sensation -- Mad Men currently airs Sunday nights on AMC at 10pm | 9c.

Even if you’ve not yet become a Maddict fan you may still wish to tune in to catch a glimpse of priceless moments such as the one aired in last night’s episode. The scene begins innocently enough, with an older man walking out of the house carrying three large phone books, chatting with his two grandchildren who are on their way to school; but it’s the look on nine year old Sally’s Draper face as Grandpa Gene presses down on her foot to increase her driving speed from 5 mph to a whopping 25 - 30 mph is one of sheer delightful devilment; as she expertly maneuvers the family’s black Lincoln through the Suburban NY streets during another of her Grandpa’s many escapades; to drop she and her younger brother off at their Grammar school. And if by chance you miss it the first go round at 10pm, the show immediately re-airs in its entirely at 11pm. But the Mad Men Maddicts already know that; so select a time, tune in, and be a Maddict that's on point too.

Mad Men Is On Point

When Mad Men debuted on AMC in 2007 it quickly became one of the most talked about series on television. The show set in 1960ish New York, focuses on the men and women of Madison Avenue Advertising. The show even made history as the first series to win an Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series; it also won Golden Globe’s Best Television Series – Drama.

One interesting element of the show is that there is a tremendous amount of cigarette smoking throughout each episode, depicting how rampant cigarette smoking was during that era; in the boardroom, the bedroom, and shall we gasp?, even pregnant women; which makes you wonder how/why everyone growing up in the 60s isn’t dead or suffering from cigarette-related cancer of some sorts. The series’ recreation is so on point you can almost feel the burning sensation in your eyes that takes you back to the days of smoked-filled rooms clouded with Camels and Kools.

The show has developed in to such a pop-cultural phenomenon with such a passionate fan base Mad Men continues to surpass everyone’s expectations with each new episode. And the record 4.5 Maddicts viewers tuning into the premiere Season 3, were delighted to learn that the show has been picked up just three episodes into the current season. The captivating world of Sterling Cooper will be back on AMC again next year." said Charlie Collier, president and general manager of AMC. And just in case you’re new to this television sensation -- Mad Men currently airs Sunday nights on AMC at 10pm | 9c.

Even if you’ve not yet become a Maddict fan you may still wish to tune in to catch a glimpse of priceless moments such as the one aired in last night’s episode. The scene begins innocently enough, with an older man walking out of the house carrying three large phone books, chatting with his two grandchildren who are on their way to school; but it’s the look on nine year old Sally’s Draper face as Grandpa Gene presses down on her foot to increase her driving speed from 5 mph to a whopping 25 - 30 mph is one of sheer delightful devilment; as she expertly maneuvers the family’s black Lincoln through the Suburban NY streets during another of her Grandpa’s many escapades; to drop she and her younger brother off at their Grammar school. And if by chance you miss it the first go round at 10pm, the show immediately re-airs in its entirely at 11pm. But the Mad Men Maddicts already know that; so select a time, tune in, and be a Maddict that's on point too.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

PEACE, LOVE, & UM

"Peace, love and UM." This is about a young college student's journey to raise enough money to attend her dream school; The University of Miami. I hope you'll learn a little about her and consider donating money to help her further her education.
To learn more, here's the link to Myesha's website:
http://www.wix.com/Silverscreenx/Peace-Love-UM

USE THE WIDGET BELOW TO DONATE:


Saturday, June 27, 2009

MJ Regains His Throne Through A Sold-Out World Of Endless Headlines.

By Chrystal Dorsey



Since the sudden death of Michael Jackson on Thursday 25, June 2009, there has been an endless procession of headlines to note the global mourning and universal tribute to the infamous icon. And the blogs are endless.



Immediately following his death, there was little mention of young boys or any other Wacko-Jacko stabs at Michael; just endless playing of his music and talk of how timeless his works are. – Just how many fans were created with his death? Quite a lot I can image.




The same people in the media who were addressing him as a freak and tried to tear him apart, just to get a story are now praising him and proclaiming an undying respect for him. I and others like me question the sincerity of many individuals’ displayed sorrow.




However, Michael Jackson was a very popular topic on Tweeter. Immediately following the confirmation of his death, somewhere between 600,000 and 2 million people Tweeted about MJ – & of that number I’m certain that a large percentage have either told or laughed at a crude joke about Mike.




I was very much opposed to his behavior towards children. However, I’m not saying that we should condemn instead of mourn. But to those who weren’t actually grief-stricken by his death, there’s no need to pretend that you are.




Here are just a few of the latest headlines:

TIME Mag Rushes Out Jackson Issue by TMZ Staff. You can get a look tmz.com at the cover of the Michael Jackson commemorative issue – being rushed to the newsstands Monday morning.



Mind you, the last time, TIME magazine published a special edition in between weekly issues was in the days following 9/11.



Michael Jackson's philanthropically "We are the World" project still helps Africans.

Filipino prisoners honor Jackson with 'Thriller' show.

Michael Jackson, the greatest.

The death of Peter Pan.

House (of Reps.) holds moment of silence for Michael Jackson.

I suspect had “the moment of silence” been for Elvis there would be no uproar.



It seems hypocrisy plays a large role with regards to celebrities and their relationship with the Media and their fans. Frankly, if you or I (or any non-celebrity) had consumed as many drugs as: Marilyn, Elvis, Anne Nicole, & perhaps Michael Jackson – we’d be referred to as pill-popping low-life Junkies; but they are generally regarded as some sort of Messiah.



There’s nothing wrong with appreciating his music for what it is without glorifying him. And on that note;


I found a disturbing post on WordPress, letter to legend to which the writer not only alluded to but actually professed her undying and unhealthy love for Michael Jackson.



I felt incline to render the following response: “You would have to have had an on-coming personal relationship with this individual to even come close to feeling what you proclaim. And even then, it would be unhealthy. But to feel this way about any human-being, especially one you don't even know is not just sick, it’s eerie.”




Oddly, I’ve read a number of articles & blogs in which writers were grasping a straws not to give MJ his props, some going so far as to claim Michael Jackson was not as popular or as talented as a foreign 60’s boy band – known as the Beatles. Just take a look at the stats and you’ll know that to be false. That said, I am incline to post an abbreviated version a NY Times article, ‘After Jackson, Fame May Never Be the Same’ By DAVID SEGAL Published: June 27, 2009:



“…Fame on the level that Mr. Jackson achieved is all but impossible for pop culture heroes today, and quite likely it will never be possible again.


On the most basic level, this is a matter of business and math. Michael Jackson has sold an estimated 100 million copies worldwide of the 1982 album “Thriller,” which spent more than 31 weeks at the top of the Billboard charts.

It’s one of those high-water marks that nobody will touch, because record stores are vanishing, and along with them, megahit albums are vanishing, too.

…Likewise, Michael Jackson had MTV, which was the place for music videos, and as close to an Ed Sullivan platform as he needed. Of course, it’s been a long time since MTV played hour after hour of prime-time videos. Today, you watch music videos on YouTube, but because there are no programmers to curate what you see, every artist has to compete with thousands of others. And now that anyone with a computer has a miniature studio, and anyone with a Internet connection can post a song, there are more genres, subgenres and artists than ever.

That’s why even Michael Jackson would have a hard time becoming Michael Jackson these days.”



To the naysayers, just as in life (in death) no matter how hard you/they tried you/they will not be able to deny or take his talent away from him.



I trust based on my posts, that I am not deemed to be one of the hypocrites. Again, although I was opposed to (what I learned through the media) his behavior toward children - I was and still am a fan of his work; and I felt no need to tear him down in his death.