Female Hottie: Halle Berry
Male Hottie: Will Smith
Random Hottie: Dania Ramirez
MILF: Christina Aguilera
Classic/Retro Hottie: Lucille Ball
Launch party
5 years ago
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Top Eye Candy of 2008
Well, here are the top bits of Eye Candy for 2008.Thanks to all of you that voted (and shame to those that didn't...lol) Enjoy!
Female Hottie: Halle Berry
Male Hottie: Will Smith
Random Hottie: Dania Ramirez
MILF: Christina Aguilera
Classic/Retro Hottie: Lucille Ball
Female Hottie: Halle Berry
Male Hottie: Will Smith
Random Hottie: Dania Ramirez
MILF: Christina Aguilera
Classic/Retro Hottie: Lucille Ball
December Top Droppers
I just want to take this time to give thanks to my top droppers (as well as everyone else that has dropped, commented, and/or came by) for December. You guys are all appreciated and I hope you keep coming back in the New Year!
Mrs. G
ThinkingOutLoudBlog.com
Beyond Left Field
amy lilley designs
The Ad Master
Lola's Diner
Prove Me Wrong
Everyday Living
My Point of View
MJG's Rambling Thoughts
I also want to thank my top clickee Darnuth Keep and top advertiser Where the Long Tail Ends.
Thanks again to all of you!
Mrs. G
ThinkingOutLoudBlog.com
Beyond Left Field
amy lilley designs
The Ad Master
Lola's Diner
Prove Me Wrong
Everyday Living
My Point of View
MJG's Rambling Thoughts
I also want to thank my top clickee Darnuth Keep and top advertiser Where the Long Tail Ends.
Thanks again to all of you!
My evil plan
I'm sitting here watching the New Year's Eve marathon of I Love Lucy, which will no longer be airing on TV Land after today because they saw fit to not renew the contract in order to keep airing it. Isn't TV Land supposed to be for classic shows? WTF?!?
So, as I'm watching Lucy and all her mad schemes, I had one of my own. Why can't I just become a TV czar and rectify the problems with all networks.
Some ideas I have are:
1) Give shows a chance to develop and those that are struggling get the chance to right the ship. Networks are too quick to pull the plug these days. Seinfeld didn't start getting major ratings until about the 3rd or 4th season. If it would have been on today, it probably would have only lasted until Thanksgiving, if that long.
2) Networks that were created for one purpose need to return to that purpose. Prime examples are MTV and VH1 need to can the reality crap (which I'll get to later) and return to showing music videos. Hell, MTV's ratings are down since they cancelled TRL, yet you can't tell them that because they've ordered 16 more reality shows! WTF?!? Other examples are Cartoon Network and TV Land. Both haven't totally abandoned their initial programming, but they're getting there, TV Land especially.
3) Bring back shows that were cancelled before their time. The little woman was a fan of Firefly when it was on, so that would be one. Pushing Daisies, Passions, 4400, and Dirt are others that immediately come to mind that either I, or people I know have said should be brought back. I'm sure there are plenty out there, that you would like to see return to the air, right?
4) Saturday mornings will be given back to cartoons. I'm not talking about this computer stuff, either. I mean handrawm cartoons that are worth watching. From what I can tell of what's on Saturday morning right now, Spongebob Squarepants is the only thing that fits that requirememnt. Keep in mind, that I'm sure I'm missing some 'toons.
5) Enough with these branches of shows. Both Law & Order and CSI have more shows than they know what to do with. Do they really need all that air time? I've watched all versions of both shows and was nearly bored to tears. I'm sure I'm not the only one. Now, I realize there are those that like said shows, which is why I'll keep the highest rated of the franchises.
6) Bring back sitcoms. I'm not talking about comedies, I mean real sitcoms complete with either a live studio audience or a laugh track. Seems like the only place you can find those these days are on Disney Channel or Nickelodeon. 2 places they shouldn't be!
7) Get rid of reality tv. They keep shoving this junk down our throats and wonder why ratings are down all across the board. Scripted shows, while more costly, are better. Can you honestly think of a reality show that can compare to your favorite scripted show? I know I can't. Now, when I say reality, I'm referring to the useless crap such as America's Next Top Model, The Hills, The Bachelor/Bachelorette, Flava of Love,, etc. I consider competition shows such as American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance, Dancing With the Stars, America's Got Talent, Biggest Loser, etc. as, well, competition shows. They could do with some tweaking to get rid of that reality spin, but they can stay as long as they cut back on some of their air time. Why drag out a results show for an hour or longer (final results excluded since that's a special occasion) when it could just as simply be done in a 30 min recap, if not less!
These are just some of the thoughts I had. I'm more than open to other ideas. Anyone want to com be a part of my staff? lol
So, as I'm watching Lucy and all her mad schemes, I had one of my own. Why can't I just become a TV czar and rectify the problems with all networks.
Some ideas I have are:
1) Give shows a chance to develop and those that are struggling get the chance to right the ship. Networks are too quick to pull the plug these days. Seinfeld didn't start getting major ratings until about the 3rd or 4th season. If it would have been on today, it probably would have only lasted until Thanksgiving, if that long.
2) Networks that were created for one purpose need to return to that purpose. Prime examples are MTV and VH1 need to can the reality crap (which I'll get to later) and return to showing music videos. Hell, MTV's ratings are down since they cancelled TRL, yet you can't tell them that because they've ordered 16 more reality shows! WTF?!? Other examples are Cartoon Network and TV Land. Both haven't totally abandoned their initial programming, but they're getting there, TV Land especially.
3) Bring back shows that were cancelled before their time. The little woman was a fan of Firefly when it was on, so that would be one. Pushing Daisies, Passions, 4400, and Dirt are others that immediately come to mind that either I, or people I know have said should be brought back. I'm sure there are plenty out there, that you would like to see return to the air, right?
4) Saturday mornings will be given back to cartoons. I'm not talking about this computer stuff, either. I mean handrawm cartoons that are worth watching. From what I can tell of what's on Saturday morning right now, Spongebob Squarepants is the only thing that fits that requirememnt. Keep in mind, that I'm sure I'm missing some 'toons.
5) Enough with these branches of shows. Both Law & Order and CSI have more shows than they know what to do with. Do they really need all that air time? I've watched all versions of both shows and was nearly bored to tears. I'm sure I'm not the only one. Now, I realize there are those that like said shows, which is why I'll keep the highest rated of the franchises.
6) Bring back sitcoms. I'm not talking about comedies, I mean real sitcoms complete with either a live studio audience or a laugh track. Seems like the only place you can find those these days are on Disney Channel or Nickelodeon. 2 places they shouldn't be!
7) Get rid of reality tv. They keep shoving this junk down our throats and wonder why ratings are down all across the board. Scripted shows, while more costly, are better. Can you honestly think of a reality show that can compare to your favorite scripted show? I know I can't. Now, when I say reality, I'm referring to the useless crap such as America's Next Top Model, The Hills, The Bachelor/Bachelorette, Flava of Love,, etc. I consider competition shows such as American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance, Dancing With the Stars, America's Got Talent, Biggest Loser, etc. as, well, competition shows. They could do with some tweaking to get rid of that reality spin, but they can stay as long as they cut back on some of their air time. Why drag out a results show for an hour or longer (final results excluded since that's a special occasion) when it could just as simply be done in a 30 min recap, if not less!
These are just some of the thoughts I had. I'm more than open to other ideas. Anyone want to com be a part of my staff? lol
Let's just cut them all down, why don't we
When I moved out here, one of the things that drew me to this complex was the scenery in the courtyard. Well, since moving in, they have cut down or removed almost all of the trees and bushes and there really is no courtyard anymore, just a sidewalk with a patio at one end and gate at the other.
I'll grant them some removal due to Gustav damage and precautions, but the bushes didn't do anything and the trees provided shade and made it pleasant to actually hang out in the courtyard. It as really noticeable in the fall when the hurricane came through, knocked the power out and everyone was looking for someplace cool.
Today, they back to cutting. Go fig, right? However, I found out why they've been cutting. The original plan was to cut the branches back for insurance reasons. That makes sense. However, over the summer, there was a change in the power infrastructure of the homeowners association and the woman that now is in charge of the finances and such hates trees and plants. Since she's in charge of hiring these men to cut things down, she decided to tell them to get rid of them. UGH! There is a meeting Friday to discuss this, however. There is no need to make all of us suffer just because she dislikes all things arboreal.
Did I mention that the previous treasure was in charge of the grounds, but took money out to pay himself and his..er...mate(and outside partners). He got what was coming to him, though as a month after that was uncovered the parish (counties for the non-Louisiana readers...lol) came and seized control and evicted him. It's now waiting to be auctioned off. Talk about karma!
I'll grant them some removal due to Gustav damage and precautions, but the bushes didn't do anything and the trees provided shade and made it pleasant to actually hang out in the courtyard. It as really noticeable in the fall when the hurricane came through, knocked the power out and everyone was looking for someplace cool.
Today, they back to cutting. Go fig, right? However, I found out why they've been cutting. The original plan was to cut the branches back for insurance reasons. That makes sense. However, over the summer, there was a change in the power infrastructure of the homeowners association and the woman that now is in charge of the finances and such hates trees and plants. Since she's in charge of hiring these men to cut things down, she decided to tell them to get rid of them. UGH! There is a meeting Friday to discuss this, however. There is no need to make all of us suffer just because she dislikes all things arboreal.
Did I mention that the previous treasure was in charge of the grounds, but took money out to pay himself and his..er...mate(and outside partners). He got what was coming to him, though as a month after that was uncovered the parish (counties for the non-Louisiana readers...lol) came and seized control and evicted him. It's now waiting to be auctioned off. Talk about karma!
Monday, December 29, 2008
More comp issues
GRRR!!! I'm really thinking of giving up on all things involving computers! lol
So, this weekend, the little woman got tired of not having up-to-date virus protection and one of her friends who is allegedly computer savvy, suggested she download AVG.
OK, no big, right? Well, after it finally downloaded and a scan was scheduled it started running....and running...and running...took a good 21 hrs to finish scanning! WTF?!? I know a scan is going to take some time, but 21 hours?
On top of that, since i has been installed, start up has been slowed down. Then of course, as with many virus scans, trying to run anything while its scanning requires lots of patience because it slows things down. I tried dropping on Entrecard and watching a DVD while it was scanning. It was like I was a on a dial up connection! Oh, the horror!
So, I'm going to contact my various computer connections and see what can be done about this and if AVG is worth this trouble. I will say it did find quite a few viruses that Norton didn't pick up.
Any of you have any ideas and/or suggestions?
So, this weekend, the little woman got tired of not having up-to-date virus protection and one of her friends who is allegedly computer savvy, suggested she download AVG.
OK, no big, right? Well, after it finally downloaded and a scan was scheduled it started running....and running...and running...took a good 21 hrs to finish scanning! WTF?!? I know a scan is going to take some time, but 21 hours?
On top of that, since i has been installed, start up has been slowed down. Then of course, as with many virus scans, trying to run anything while its scanning requires lots of patience because it slows things down. I tried dropping on Entrecard and watching a DVD while it was scanning. It was like I was a on a dial up connection! Oh, the horror!
So, I'm going to contact my various computer connections and see what can be done about this and if AVG is worth this trouble. I will say it did find quite a few viruses that Norton didn't pick up.
Any of you have any ideas and/or suggestions?
2008 Eye Candy Nominees
For those of you that read my blog on any sort of regular basis, you know that I have a weekly feature known as "Eye Candy". Well, with the year coming to a close, I'd like to enlist your aid in picking the best of the year. I will combine your votes with my personal view and determine who is the best for each category. Don't worry, the votes will count more than my input. You're more than welcome to vote everytime you visit. If you need a refresher look at the nominees, type eye candy in the little white box up in the upper left corner and it should come up, though you may have to scroll down to find them. Now, on to the ballot.
Hottie of the Week
Male Hottie
Random Hottie
MILF
Classic/Retro Hottie
Thanks for your vote. The winner will be announced (posted) Jan 1. I may start doing this monthly. Can you imagine if this time next year I have to nominate all 52(x4) people that earned a spot in the "Eye Candy" posts?
In the meantime, I will be away from this blog. I'll still be dropping and replying to comments, but I'm going to disconnect for a bit. Happy New Year to all of you!
Hottie of the Week
Male Hottie
Random Hottie
MILF
Classic/Retro Hottie
Thanks for your vote. The winner will be announced (posted) Jan 1. I may start doing this monthly. Can you imagine if this time next year I have to nominate all 52(x4) people that earned a spot in the "Eye Candy" posts?
In the meantime, I will be away from this blog. I'll still be dropping and replying to comments, but I'm going to disconnect for a bit. Happy New Year to all of you!
Musical Monday 18
This week's Musical Monday reminds us that the year is nearly over as we deal with time. I think I've covered all my favorite genres of music in these entries, except musicals. Yes, that's right, I'm a straight man that likes musicals. I'm sure you'll be getting up and dancing to "The Time Warp" from The Rocky Horror Picture Show!
Since this week will mark the new year, how can I go without giving you "Auld Lang Syne"? Hope you enjoy Kenny G's rendition of this classic piece.
Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. One simple rule, leave ONLY the actual post link here. You can grab this code at LJL Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted.
Since this week will mark the new year, how can I go without giving you "Auld Lang Syne"? Hope you enjoy Kenny G's rendition of this classic piece.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Eye Candy vol 19
Female Hottie: Jenna Fischer
This week's hottie is a lesser known actress. Jenna is best known for her role on NBC's hit comedy The Office and also her role in the film Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story. Just look at that face (and body). How could I deny her hotness a spot here?
Male Hottie: Justin Timberlake
A few years ago he sang about bringing Sexyback. From his legions of female fans, some of which have grown up with him since the days on The New Mickey Mouse Club and N'Sync, Justin seems to have done just that.
Random Hottie from a movie or TV show seen this week: Lauren Graham
This week's random hottie is best known as being the mother on Gilmore Girls, although if you've ever watched even part of that show you know that it's rather hard to tell who the mother is and who the daughter is. She also has had a few film roles including the one that earned her this spot, Bad Santa. You know, she's the one that has a Santa fetish. One must wonder where she drew inspiration from for that role.
MILF: Maggie Gyllenhaal
A while back, her brother Jake earned a spot as the male hottie, and I said that she would eventually make an appearance. Well, here she is, fresh off being blown up in the summer's blockbuster The Dark Knight. I know her best for her role in the film Secretary, though. Maggie has one daughter who hopefully will grow up to reach the level of hotness of her mother.
Classic/Retro Hottie: Eartha Kitt
This week, we lost a Hollywood legend. Eartha Kitt, who is best known for singing "Santa Baby" and being the first African-American Catwoman (even though we prefer to forget Halle Berry's portrayal). She also lent her distinctive voice to Ezma in Disney's movie and animated series The Emperor's New Groove(the show is call ...New School). At 81 years young, it is no surprise that she passed, it is just a shame that it happened on Xmas Day. Still, she has left quite a legacy.
This week's hottie is a lesser known actress. Jenna is best known for her role on NBC's hit comedy The Office and also her role in the film Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story. Just look at that face (and body). How could I deny her hotness a spot here?
Male Hottie: Justin Timberlake
A few years ago he sang about bringing Sexyback. From his legions of female fans, some of which have grown up with him since the days on The New Mickey Mouse Club and N'Sync, Justin seems to have done just that.
Random Hottie from a movie or TV show seen this week: Lauren Graham
This week's random hottie is best known as being the mother on Gilmore Girls, although if you've ever watched even part of that show you know that it's rather hard to tell who the mother is and who the daughter is. She also has had a few film roles including the one that earned her this spot, Bad Santa. You know, she's the one that has a Santa fetish. One must wonder where she drew inspiration from for that role.
MILF: Maggie Gyllenhaal
A while back, her brother Jake earned a spot as the male hottie, and I said that she would eventually make an appearance. Well, here she is, fresh off being blown up in the summer's blockbuster The Dark Knight. I know her best for her role in the film Secretary, though. Maggie has one daughter who hopefully will grow up to reach the level of hotness of her mother.
Classic/Retro Hottie: Eartha Kitt
This week, we lost a Hollywood legend. Eartha Kitt, who is best known for singing "Santa Baby" and being the first African-American Catwoman (even though we prefer to forget Halle Berry's portrayal). She also lent her distinctive voice to Ezma in Disney's movie and animated series The Emperor's New Groove(the show is call ...New School). At 81 years young, it is no surprise that she passed, it is just a shame that it happened on Xmas Day. Still, she has left quite a legacy.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Problem solved
Since I've been dropping on entrecard, I've always wondered why some blogs will load perfectly fine, yet their card won't show, even though their profile says they have one. Well, The Exaggerator has figured it out. I would imagine this goes for when entries don't show as well. This is not counting entrecard issues (that happen more often than not...lol)
Here's his blog entry:
Not sure if I'm going to switch, but at least I know what's going on now. I was starting to think it was something wrong with my computer. Have you had any issues like this?
Here's his blog entry:
READER, IN JUST THE LAST COUPLE OF DAYS, YOUR CORRESPONDENT HAS SWITCHED OVER FROM USING INTERNET EXPLORER TO MOZILLA FIREFOX as the browser-of-choice, largely because of some problems seeing EntreCard widgets for drops in some of the member blogs using Internet Explorer.
Which, when seen in Firefox, can actually be seen...
Not sure if I'm going to switch, but at least I know what's going on now. I was starting to think it was something wrong with my computer. Have you had any issues like this?
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Last round of Xmas cheer
Merry Xmas to all. How about we start we "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus". sorry, but I don't know who sings this.
You know you love this next one. Burl Ives' rendition of "Holly Jolly Christmas"
Here are the Muppets and the late John Denver singing "We Wish You a Merry Christmas"
Let's add a little world flavor to this Xmas mix. Please do enjoy Jose Feliciano's "Feliz Navidad"
The final selection I have for you, is a jazzy rendition of "Jingle Bells" performed by Duke Ellington & His Orchestra featureing the imoortal Louis Armstrong on trumpet.
You know you love this next one. Burl Ives' rendition of "Holly Jolly Christmas"
Here are the Muppets and the late John Denver singing "We Wish You a Merry Christmas"
Let's add a little world flavor to this Xmas mix. Please do enjoy Jose Feliciano's "Feliz Navidad"
The final selection I have for you, is a jazzy rendition of "Jingle Bells" performed by Duke Ellington & His Orchestra featureing the imoortal Louis Armstrong on trumpet.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Rockin' on Xmas Eve
Since it's Xmas eve, let's rock a little bit, shall we? How about some Brenda Lee's "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree"?
Here's one I just found and heard today. I like it, so I'm gonna share. Let me know what you think. Here is Gary Glitter (the "Rock & Roll pt. 1 (Hey! Song)" guy) singing "Another Rock N Roll Christmas"
This one is more bluesy/jazz, but still good. Hope you like Brian SEtzer's "Boogie Woogie Santa Claus"
How about something a little harder? Hard rock/metal fans will enjoy Metallica playing with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra on "Carol of the Bells"
Finally, let's let Chuck Berry show us how it's done with "Run, Run, Rudolph".
Here's one I just found and heard today. I like it, so I'm gonna share. Let me know what you think. Here is Gary Glitter (the "Rock & Roll pt. 1 (Hey! Song)" guy) singing "Another Rock N Roll Christmas"
This one is more bluesy/jazz, but still good. Hope you like Brian SEtzer's "Boogie Woogie Santa Claus"
How about something a little harder? Hard rock/metal fans will enjoy Metallica playing with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra on "Carol of the Bells"
Finally, let's let Chuck Berry show us how it's done with "Run, Run, Rudolph".
Better late than never
For the few of you that have been reading my blog since its inception, you may recall that I was a bit down about not getting a card or any type of acknowledgement. You can refresh your memory here
Well, yesterday I finally got a birthday card (and Xmas card). Better late than never, I suppose. The $50 stuck in there doesn't hurt, either...lol
Well, yesterday I finally got a birthday card (and Xmas card). Better late than never, I suppose. The $50 stuck in there doesn't hurt, either...lol
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Double dose
I hope you've all been enjoying these little Xmas spirit songs. Let's slow it down a bit today. 2 days left, so how about a double dose.
First up is Nat "King" Cole's immortal rendition of "The Christmas Song"
This next one holds a special place in my heart. When I was a young trumpet player in jr. high, I had a little 3 note solo at our Xmas concert. It was my first solo. I can't tell you how hard I worked to get those 3 notes perfect! Anyway, enjoy Bing Crosby's "White Christmas".
First up is Nat "King" Cole's immortal rendition of "The Christmas Song"
This next one holds a special place in my heart. When I was a young trumpet player in jr. high, I had a little 3 note solo at our Xmas concert. It was my first solo. I can't tell you how hard I worked to get those 3 notes perfect! Anyway, enjoy Bing Crosby's "White Christmas".
It happens, I guess
What a Xmas break I'm having. First my favorite pair of pajamas get slit down the leg and now my Internet has been acting wonky! I'm not sure what's going on, but since about lunchtime yesterday its been going in and out. Last night it went out and didn't come back (as far as I know) until just before noon!
Strange part is, I was talking to one of my friends over yahoo! last week and she was having the exact same problem. Two things about that, she was at work, and across town, not to mention, I don't think internet issues can be transferred just through one person on a messenger and another on her cell, but I could be wrong.
Bow that I think about, have you ever given any though to who creates viruses? That must truly be an evil being. Why would you create something for the sheer purpose of destroying the internet?
It's like I used to wonder about the henchmen in cartoon and comic books, not to mention the Stormtroopers in the Star Wars movies (before it was revealed they were clones). The same principle applied, though. Where do these evil guys come from? Yeah, I know, I have some strange thoughts, but I have to do something with my brain...lol
Anyway, it appears as if my internet is back to working normal now. My guess is that they were working with the server or something. Nothing wrong with that, just wish that they would have sent out a notice or something. Also, it seems like every break I'm on, this happens. What's up with that?!?
Strange part is, I was talking to one of my friends over yahoo! last week and she was having the exact same problem. Two things about that, she was at work, and across town, not to mention, I don't think internet issues can be transferred just through one person on a messenger and another on her cell, but I could be wrong.
Bow that I think about, have you ever given any though to who creates viruses? That must truly be an evil being. Why would you create something for the sheer purpose of destroying the internet?
It's like I used to wonder about the henchmen in cartoon and comic books, not to mention the Stormtroopers in the Star Wars movies (before it was revealed they were clones). The same principle applied, though. Where do these evil guys come from? Yeah, I know, I have some strange thoughts, but I have to do something with my brain...lol
Anyway, it appears as if my internet is back to working normal now. My guess is that they were working with the server or something. Nothing wrong with that, just wish that they would have sent out a notice or something. Also, it seems like every break I'm on, this happens. What's up with that?!?
Monday, December 22, 2008
Sadness
I'm very saddened this morning as I have to say goodbye to my favorite pair of pajama pants. They passed away this morning after being murdered by the countertop corner which ripped a whole in them so big that they can't recover from. *sniff* *sniff* They will be missed. Hopefully Santa will bring me some new ones! lol
Musical Monday 17
Since most of my Musical Mondays involve music from the 80s, and I wanted this week to be a Xmas song exclusively, I figured I'd give you "Last Christmas" by Wham! Enjoy!
Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. One simple rule, leave ONLY the actual post link here. You can grab this code at LJL Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Eye Candy vol 18
Female Hottie: Ashanti
This week's hottie of the female persuasions comes from the world of R & B. The beautiful Ashanti, has the looks of a model and a killer voice. What a package! Is there any wonder I chose her for this week's "Eye Candy"?
Male Hottie Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson has successfully made the transition from college football backup player, to the top of the professional wrestling, and now acting. He was my favorite wrestler back in the day when he was in the ring. He was also quite a bit bigger, then, too. As an actor, though, he's not too shabby. Each movie I see him in, he gets better. Tidbit of information, he went to the University of Miami where backed up future NFL Hall of Famer and current runner on Dancing With the Stars, Warren Sapp. Also, if you've ever seen the beginning of Pulp Fiction where they describe Tony Rocky Horror as being half black, half Samoan, then they were kind of describing Dwayne' ethnicity (only he's not fat). Hope you ladies (and Preston) enjoy.
Random Hottie from a movie or TV show seen this week: Marley Shelton
The random hottie for this week is the beautiful Marley Shelton. Back in early part of this decade she had bit parts in film and television. I believe her biggest roles were in Bubble Boy and Sugar and Spice. She has steadily been working, landing roles in W, Planet Terror and Grindhouse, but it is her role as Agent Rachel Young on the CBS show Eleventh Hour that has garnered her this spot. Besides, look at that face (and body). How can you say she's not eye candy?
MILF: Demi Moore
One of the most beautiful women in Hollywood graces this week's edition of "Eye Candy" with her presence. Demi Moore is the mother of 3 girls, one of which is an up and coming actress (Rumer). She has starred in such films as Ghost, The Scarlett Letter, Striptease, Charlies Angels: Full Throttle and lent her voice to the gypsy Esmerelda in The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and that doesn't even scratch the surface of her work. What a MILF, huh?
Classic/Retro Hottie: Julie Andrews
What can I say about the elegant Dam Julie Andrews that hasn't alresdy been said. She is best known for her roles in Victor/Victoria, Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music. She is the living embodiment of grace and sophistication and what a voice. I seem to remember hearing she had to have throat surgery a few years back and wouldn't be able to sing anymore, then I heard her belt out a few notes in Princess Diaries 2: A Royal Engagement. I guess she's recovered.
This week's hottie of the female persuasions comes from the world of R & B. The beautiful Ashanti, has the looks of a model and a killer voice. What a package! Is there any wonder I chose her for this week's "Eye Candy"?
Male Hottie Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson has successfully made the transition from college football backup player, to the top of the professional wrestling, and now acting. He was my favorite wrestler back in the day when he was in the ring. He was also quite a bit bigger, then, too. As an actor, though, he's not too shabby. Each movie I see him in, he gets better. Tidbit of information, he went to the University of Miami where backed up future NFL Hall of Famer and current runner on Dancing With the Stars, Warren Sapp. Also, if you've ever seen the beginning of Pulp Fiction where they describe Tony Rocky Horror as being half black, half Samoan, then they were kind of describing Dwayne' ethnicity (only he's not fat). Hope you ladies (and Preston) enjoy.
Random Hottie from a movie or TV show seen this week: Marley Shelton
The random hottie for this week is the beautiful Marley Shelton. Back in early part of this decade she had bit parts in film and television. I believe her biggest roles were in Bubble Boy and Sugar and Spice. She has steadily been working, landing roles in W, Planet Terror and Grindhouse, but it is her role as Agent Rachel Young on the CBS show Eleventh Hour that has garnered her this spot. Besides, look at that face (and body). How can you say she's not eye candy?
MILF: Demi Moore
One of the most beautiful women in Hollywood graces this week's edition of "Eye Candy" with her presence. Demi Moore is the mother of 3 girls, one of which is an up and coming actress (Rumer). She has starred in such films as Ghost, The Scarlett Letter, Striptease, Charlies Angels: Full Throttle and lent her voice to the gypsy Esmerelda in The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and that doesn't even scratch the surface of her work. What a MILF, huh?
Classic/Retro Hottie: Julie Andrews
What can I say about the elegant Dam Julie Andrews that hasn't alresdy been said. She is best known for her roles in Victor/Victoria, Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music. She is the living embodiment of grace and sophistication and what a voice. I seem to remember hearing she had to have throat surgery a few years back and wouldn't be able to sing anymore, then I heard her belt out a few notes in Princess Diaries 2: A Royal Engagement. I guess she's recovered.
Xmas spirit is alive and well
You know I had to get this one in here. Hope you don't mind a little "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer".
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Xmas is getting closer
Yes, indeed. It's getting closer. So, to keep you in the spirit, how about a little Jackon 5 singing "Santa Claus is Coming to Town"
Friday, December 19, 2008
a little Xmas music
Today's Xmas song comes from Alvin & the Chipmunks. In case you haven't seen the movie, you can read my review here.
In the meantime, I hope you enjoy the original version of Alvin & the Chipmunks singing "Please Christmas Don't Be Late".
In the meantime, I hope you enjoy the original version of Alvin & the Chipmunks singing "Please Christmas Don't Be Late".
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Not everyone believes what you believe, so how about a little space
I just came back from breaking up a fight between two students who got in a fight over...get this...the meaning of Xmas! That's right, they were fighting over whether it should be secular holiday involving Santa Claus, presents, trees, decorations etc., or a festival calibrating the birth of Jesus.
Now, usually school fights are started over something like looking at someone wrong, talking about each other's momma, a boy/girl, etc. I have never heard of a fight starting over a holiday.
I don't know all the details on how it started or anything, just that all of a sudden as I was finishing up my lecture there was a commotion in the hall and the next thing I know they had busted open my room and were rolling around on the ground.
From my understanding, this is not the first altercation these two have had over religious/secular issues, just the most violent. I don't know what will happen to them. I imagine suspension.
Still, I have to bring this up. It seems like there are those that are extremely devout Christians. Nothing wrong with that, but there is a breaking point. Not everyone believes the same thing. You have to respect their beliefs. Can you imagine if these two would have had guns and had this altercation. There would probably be two dead boys all because they disagreed on something religious. Wars get started that way.
Oh well, boys will be boys.
Now, usually school fights are started over something like looking at someone wrong, talking about each other's momma, a boy/girl, etc. I have never heard of a fight starting over a holiday.
I don't know all the details on how it started or anything, just that all of a sudden as I was finishing up my lecture there was a commotion in the hall and the next thing I know they had busted open my room and were rolling around on the ground.
From my understanding, this is not the first altercation these two have had over religious/secular issues, just the most violent. I don't know what will happen to them. I imagine suspension.
Still, I have to bring this up. It seems like there are those that are extremely devout Christians. Nothing wrong with that, but there is a breaking point. Not everyone believes the same thing. You have to respect their beliefs. Can you imagine if these two would have had guns and had this altercation. There would probably be two dead boys all because they disagreed on something religious. Wars get started that way.
Oh well, boys will be boys.
Xmas music
7 days until Xmas, so I figured I'd give you all a song a day. Today I'll take you on a "Sleigh Ride" by Leroy Anderson.
Any suggestions for tomorrow's Xmas song? I'm always listening?
Any suggestions for tomorrow's Xmas song? I'm always listening?
Can we switch already?
Last night I was watching TV. big surprise, right? Unless you've been under a rock, or not watching TV for the past year or so, then you know that in February, there is supposed to be some kind of big switch to digital hd tv or something. I have cable, so i don't have to worry about having to get any of the fancy equipment, or a new TV...although it would be nice to get one. *HINT* *HINT* lol
Anyway, on quite a few stations they were running the warning across the bottom of the screen non-stop. Even during the commercial breaks! Can we just switch already so we can stop hearing about this. They were running these things more than they do emergency notices! How sad is that?!?
Anyway, on quite a few stations they were running the warning across the bottom of the screen non-stop. Even during the commercial breaks! Can we just switch already so we can stop hearing about this. They were running these things more than they do emergency notices! How sad is that?!?
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Is it over?
It never fails! The week before a break, the days go by so slowly and time seems to slow down as the week comes to an end.
This week has been very mundane except for the little fight the little woman and I had that nearly resulted in me being out on the street and single. Sad when a near breakup is the highlight of the week, right?
So, has anyone else experienced similar feelings when a break and/or vacation is on the horizon. Oh, and leave us not forget that payday is Friday, so that just adds another reason for the week to hurry up and end, yet it's taking as much time as possible to end.
Oh well, as soon as 2:30 gets here Friday afternoon, I'm headed home and starting my Xmas vacation! I need a break, lemme tell ya!
This week has been very mundane except for the little fight the little woman and I had that nearly resulted in me being out on the street and single. Sad when a near breakup is the highlight of the week, right?
So, has anyone else experienced similar feelings when a break and/or vacation is on the horizon. Oh, and leave us not forget that payday is Friday, so that just adds another reason for the week to hurry up and end, yet it's taking as much time as possible to end.
Oh well, as soon as 2:30 gets here Friday afternoon, I'm headed home and starting my Xmas vacation! I need a break, lemme tell ya!
A job I would never want
I don't know how many of you keep up with sports stuff, but if you do, you more than likely know that the worst job to have is that of head coach. Yeah, you make millions of dollars and if you're winning you're considered a genius, but the first sign of trouble and the fans and those that control your money will turn on you and the case could be very well that you're out the door before the end of the season.
Don't believe me? Let's look at the NBA. The season just started last month or so and already there have been 6...that's right 6, coaches fired. I don't really see how firing a coach at the beginning of a season is going to help. I'm not condemning or praising the decision to fire these coaches, but if I'm not mistaken all of them had barely gotten settled down into their job.
It's like what television networks are doing these days. They just want immediate success. No one has the time to build anything anymore. Next thing you know, players will be getting benched, or even worse kicked off teams after one bad game! It's ridiculous, if you ask me.
The NBA isn't the only place where coaches are on a carousel. All sports have this issue. I could go into a long, detailed, spewage on the topic, but I'm not informed enough about it. However, I will go into one specific case.
This year, Auburn University had a down year. The first in like 5-10 yrs (don't quote me on that). Because of that, their coach, Tommy Tubberville, was fired (though he maintains he resigned).
I have two thoughts on this. Tubberville was there 10 yrs, and with the ever changing face of college football, it could just have time for a change. Then I think of two of the elder statesmen of the college football coaching world, Joe Paterno and Bobby Bowden who have been coaching since the Big Bang...lol
Back to Auburn...Tubberville leaves (under whatever the circumstance is) and they go on an exhaustive search. Finally they come to a decision to hire Gene Chizik, who while a very talented assistant coach/coordinator has not proven himself as a head coach. In his two year stint as head coach at Iowa State, I believe won between 3 and 5 games and lost 20. Somehow the Auburn people decided he's the best man for the job, though. Probably because he's an alumni.
I'm not going to sit here and say he is or isn't until it's been seen what he can or can't do, but with more qualified candidates out there, this makes no sense. It's like if you go in to interview for a job as a bank manager after having been a teller and the other candidates have all successfully run banks in the past. That's what this hire is like.
There are plenty that aren't happy with his hiring either. Former NBA star and Auburn alum, Charles Barkely has spoken out on this matter, going so far as to bring race into the mix.
Here's a bit of what Charles said:
If you're not a sports fan, you're probably wondering why, right? Well, the hot candidate in college football is Turner Gill, an African-American who is currently the head coach at the University of Buffalo.
There was also something about Gill having a white wife being the cause for his not being hired. I doubt this was the reason, but since Auburn is in the state of Alabama, it wouldn't surprise me if that was in the back of their heads and subconsciously influenced their decision.
My guess is Chizik was hired because of his pre-Iowa State credentials and that he may have blown them away in the interview. If that's not the case, then I really can't find any logical explanation.
I don't know about the race thing, but I can guarantee you this, standards are high at Auburn already and with Nick Saban having rebuilt and established a dominant program at the University of Alabama (at least for now), the SEC being one of, if not THE toughest conference in college football, if Chizik doesn't come out of the gate strong come next fall, the fans will be calling for his head, and it probably won't be long before they have it.
We've all seen how being president of the U.S. has aged anyone that walks into that office. Let's see how gray and wrinkled Obama will look this time next year. It's a very stressful job. Well, being a coach just may be as stressful. I'm glad I didn't go into coaching!
Don't believe me? Let's look at the NBA. The season just started last month or so and already there have been 6...that's right 6, coaches fired. I don't really see how firing a coach at the beginning of a season is going to help. I'm not condemning or praising the decision to fire these coaches, but if I'm not mistaken all of them had barely gotten settled down into their job.
It's like what television networks are doing these days. They just want immediate success. No one has the time to build anything anymore. Next thing you know, players will be getting benched, or even worse kicked off teams after one bad game! It's ridiculous, if you ask me.
The NBA isn't the only place where coaches are on a carousel. All sports have this issue. I could go into a long, detailed, spewage on the topic, but I'm not informed enough about it. However, I will go into one specific case.
This year, Auburn University had a down year. The first in like 5-10 yrs (don't quote me on that). Because of that, their coach, Tommy Tubberville, was fired (though he maintains he resigned).
I have two thoughts on this. Tubberville was there 10 yrs, and with the ever changing face of college football, it could just have time for a change. Then I think of two of the elder statesmen of the college football coaching world, Joe Paterno and Bobby Bowden who have been coaching since the Big Bang...lol
Back to Auburn...Tubberville leaves (under whatever the circumstance is) and they go on an exhaustive search. Finally they come to a decision to hire Gene Chizik, who while a very talented assistant coach/coordinator has not proven himself as a head coach. In his two year stint as head coach at Iowa State, I believe won between 3 and 5 games and lost 20. Somehow the Auburn people decided he's the best man for the job, though. Probably because he's an alumni.
I'm not going to sit here and say he is or isn't until it's been seen what he can or can't do, but with more qualified candidates out there, this makes no sense. It's like if you go in to interview for a job as a bank manager after having been a teller and the other candidates have all successfully run banks in the past. That's what this hire is like.
There are plenty that aren't happy with his hiring either. Former NBA star and Auburn alum, Charles Barkely has spoken out on this matter, going so far as to bring race into the mix.
Here's a bit of what Charles said:
"I think race was the No. 1 factor... You can say it's not about race, but you can't compare the two resumes and say [Chizik] deserved the job. Out of all the coaches they interviewed, Chizik probably had the worst resume."
"I just thought Turner Gill would be the perfect choice for two reasons: He's a terrific coach and we needed to make a splash. I thought we had to do something spectacular to bring attention to the program. Clearly, if we'd hired a black coach, it would have created a buzz."
If you're not a sports fan, you're probably wondering why, right? Well, the hot candidate in college football is Turner Gill, an African-American who is currently the head coach at the University of Buffalo.
There was also something about Gill having a white wife being the cause for his not being hired. I doubt this was the reason, but since Auburn is in the state of Alabama, it wouldn't surprise me if that was in the back of their heads and subconsciously influenced their decision.
My guess is Chizik was hired because of his pre-Iowa State credentials and that he may have blown them away in the interview. If that's not the case, then I really can't find any logical explanation.
I don't know about the race thing, but I can guarantee you this, standards are high at Auburn already and with Nick Saban having rebuilt and established a dominant program at the University of Alabama (at least for now), the SEC being one of, if not THE toughest conference in college football, if Chizik doesn't come out of the gate strong come next fall, the fans will be calling for his head, and it probably won't be long before they have it.
We've all seen how being president of the U.S. has aged anyone that walks into that office. Let's see how gray and wrinkled Obama will look this time next year. It's a very stressful job. Well, being a coach just may be as stressful. I'm glad I didn't go into coaching!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Sluggish
Ever have one of those days where you just seem like you can't get going. That's been my day so far. Barely rolled out of bed (after hitting the snooze many times) and made it to work and now I'm counting down the hours until I can go home. Is it 2:30 yet?
Odd thing is, its not cold...temp thing says its about 47 and the high for the day is supposed to get up to 72 or so. Not raining, but it is slightly overcast. None of these things would contribute to me wanting to live my day in the bed...lol
Yesterday I was a bundle of energy. I got up early and did a good 2 hours of exercise before my shower and leaveing for work. Hmmm...wonder if this is just a delayed reaction to that, or if I'm just getting old...lol
Oh well, I'm sure I'll perk up after lunch.
Odd thing is, its not cold...temp thing says its about 47 and the high for the day is supposed to get up to 72 or so. Not raining, but it is slightly overcast. None of these things would contribute to me wanting to live my day in the bed...lol
Yesterday I was a bundle of energy. I got up early and did a good 2 hours of exercise before my shower and leaveing for work. Hmmm...wonder if this is just a delayed reaction to that, or if I'm just getting old...lol
Oh well, I'm sure I'll perk up after lunch.
Not condemming anyone this week
Last week, if you recall, I condemned Billy Graham and the local NBC affiliate to "rot in hell" (also the name of the post).
This week, though, they realized the error of their ways as Chuck was right where he should be. Not to mention it was a totally awesome episode that lead into what turned out to be the best Heroes episode of the season.
Shame both shows go into reruns, if they even come at all, until the Monday after the Super Bowl (Feb. 2). I swear if they pull another Billy Graham stunt on that day, I'm gonna drive across town and...well, I don't know what I'm going to do, but it won't be pretty.
Yes, billy Graham is on my public enemy list along with Oprah and Christian Bale. Although, Oprah has a reprieve due to her being so instrumental in Obama's campaign...lol
This week, though, they realized the error of their ways as Chuck was right where he should be. Not to mention it was a totally awesome episode that lead into what turned out to be the best Heroes episode of the season.
Shame both shows go into reruns, if they even come at all, until the Monday after the Super Bowl (Feb. 2). I swear if they pull another Billy Graham stunt on that day, I'm gonna drive across town and...well, I don't know what I'm going to do, but it won't be pretty.
Yes, billy Graham is on my public enemy list along with Oprah and Christian Bale. Although, Oprah has a reprieve due to her being so instrumental in Obama's campaign...lol
Monday, December 15, 2008
Foreshadowing?
I haven't said anything about politics in awhile. As I say with every political themed entry, this is not a political blog. There are more than enough of those.
So, as I'm sure we all know. Hilary Clinton will be Barack Obama's Secretary of State. A more political minded friend of mine was joking about this earlier today regarding a skectch on Saturday Night Live in which Barack called hilary at 2 am. He said he guesses now that will be a reality.
I don't know if I agree (or disagree) with him, but it was kind of funny.
So, as I'm sure we all know. Hilary Clinton will be Barack Obama's Secretary of State. A more political minded friend of mine was joking about this earlier today regarding a skectch on Saturday Night Live in which Barack called hilary at 2 am. He said he guesses now that will be a reality.
I don't know if I agree (or disagree) with him, but it was kind of funny.
Musical Monday 16
This week I decided to give you a triple dose. We'll start with some good ol' 80s rock. how about some Bon Jovi? Enjoy "Livin' On a Prayer".
It's still December, so that means another taste of Xmas. Have fun with "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch."
How about something we finish up with something a little more urban? Enjoy Keyshia Cole's "Shoulda Let You Go".
Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. One simple rule, leave ONLY the actual post link here. You can grab this code at LJL Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted.
It's still December, so that means another taste of Xmas. Have fun with "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch."
How about something we finish up with something a little more urban? Enjoy Keyshia Cole's "Shoulda Let You Go".
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Built in hand warmers
It's been rather cold down here the past few days. Last night, the heater decide to take its sweet time coming on. In the end it turned out that I had turned it down before I left for work(gotta keep costs down somehow) and forgot to turn it back up when I came home.
Anyway, last night the little woman and I were sitting on the couch watching TV and she said her hands were cold. So, initially I tried to warm them up with my hands. For some reason, 9 times out of 10 my hands are gonna be warm. That didn't work, though, so she pulled them inside her shirt and put them underneath her breasts.
Now, she is very well endowed. We're talking 44DD at least! So, there's plenty there to use for warmth...lol After a couple of minutes her hands were nearly as hot as a cup of hot chocolate. Ok...maybe not that hot, but you get the picture.
Isn't it amazing how creative some people can be when it comes to keeping warm?
Anyway, last night the little woman and I were sitting on the couch watching TV and she said her hands were cold. So, initially I tried to warm them up with my hands. For some reason, 9 times out of 10 my hands are gonna be warm. That didn't work, though, so she pulled them inside her shirt and put them underneath her breasts.
Now, she is very well endowed. We're talking 44DD at least! So, there's plenty there to use for warmth...lol After a couple of minutes her hands were nearly as hot as a cup of hot chocolate. Ok...maybe not that hot, but you get the picture.
Isn't it amazing how creative some people can be when it comes to keeping warm?
Spongebob Squarepants thoughts
I caught what seems to be the only cartoon left on Nickelodeon, Spongebob Squarepants this morning. Whatever happened to classics like Danger Mouse, Count Duckula, Inspector Gadget, etc.
Anyway, as I was watching, I got to thinking. Spongebob appears to be a kid...at least he acts like one, yet he has a job and owns a house.
Cartoon logic aside, this makes no sense, but then I figure its just a cartoon, but it did make me think for a bit. Ugh! What's wrong with me? Can't I just watch a cartoon without trying to analyze it?
Anyway, as I was watching, I got to thinking. Spongebob appears to be a kid...at least he acts like one, yet he has a job and owns a house.
Cartoon logic aside, this makes no sense, but then I figure its just a cartoon, but it did make me think for a bit. Ugh! What's wrong with me? Can't I just watch a cartoon without trying to analyze it?
Friday, December 12, 2008
Bug day
Apparently, Entrecard had some kid of bug for most of the day today. Not sure when it came back up, I tried logging on this morning a couple of times, then just waited until I got home. I prefer to do my dropping at work, since the computers there are infinitely faster.
Entrecard should not be getting these bugs that shut down the entire system. Seriously, these are similar to the issues myspace had in the early days.
I guess I shouldn't complain, at least I got my dropping done. Oh, and yesterday I set another record with 317 drops on my measly little blog here! Woohoo!
I had a blog I was going to put up earlier today, but I lost my train of thought when I couldn't get my drops done. Oh well, I'm sure it'll come back to me.
Entrecard should not be getting these bugs that shut down the entire system. Seriously, these are similar to the issues myspace had in the early days.
I guess I shouldn't complain, at least I got my dropping done. Oh, and yesterday I set another record with 317 drops on my measly little blog here! Woohoo!
I had a blog I was going to put up earlier today, but I lost my train of thought when I couldn't get my drops done. Oh well, I'm sure it'll come back to me.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Snow Day
When I was a little boy, we lived in Nebraska for a few years. Back then and up there, snow was as common as rain, unless it was a blizzard or something. When we moved down to La., it all of a sudden started snowing and everyone was happy about snow days, even though it didn't stick.
Time passed, weather patterns changed, and the snow stopped. Then I moved to the southern part of the state, and it decides to snow up where I moved from.
Well, last night the snow came. Yay! Snow in south Louisiana! Who would've thunk it?
Damn school board waited until the last minute to decide to cancel school today, though. I was about to turn the TV off and head out the door when it was announced no school, but that's ok. I really would rather just sit here and look at the beautiful white sheet (too think to be a blanket) of white. Chances are it'll be gone before the day is over, but hey, anything is better than nothing, right?
Time passed, weather patterns changed, and the snow stopped. Then I moved to the southern part of the state, and it decides to snow up where I moved from.
Well, last night the snow came. Yay! Snow in south Louisiana! Who would've thunk it?
Damn school board waited until the last minute to decide to cancel school today, though. I was about to turn the TV off and head out the door when it was announced no school, but that's ok. I really would rather just sit here and look at the beautiful white sheet (too think to be a blanket) of white. Chances are it'll be gone before the day is over, but hey, anything is better than nothing, right?
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Watch what you say on camera
A friend of mine sent me this a little while ago. Apparently, they played the right clip on the 5 and 6 pm news, but come 10, they played this one. It's one thing to miscue a clip and/or make snafus on the air, but to utter an obscenity? My guess is that someone's head will roll because of this.
What do you think?
What do you think?
Severe? What was severe?
Last night, and most of yesterday for that matter, they made such a big deal about there being severe weather coming this way. some schools spent most of the day in tornado drills. There was a tornado watch in effect until about 11 or so. All this, and all that came through was some rain and a bit higher than normal winds.
Now, I'm not saying I was sitting in the bathroom waiting to be whisked away by a tornado or something, but I was kind of expecting some kind of something...anything to happen. Even if it was a blackout!
I probably should be quiet. Last time I said that, Gustav came through here and tore up most of the Baton Rouge area, not to mention knocked power out for a week!
Still, as disappointed as I was, I can say that with the rain beating on the window, I slept like a baby. Didn't want to wake up this morning...but that's every morning...hahahaha
Now, I'm not saying I was sitting in the bathroom waiting to be whisked away by a tornado or something, but I was kind of expecting some kind of something...anything to happen. Even if it was a blackout!
I probably should be quiet. Last time I said that, Gustav came through here and tore up most of the Baton Rouge area, not to mention knocked power out for a week!
Still, as disappointed as I was, I can say that with the rain beating on the window, I slept like a baby. Didn't want to wake up this morning...but that's every morning...hahahaha
Oh well
Yeah, I changed the layout yesterday and my entrecard widget, but decided to change the layout back to what I had becuse, well, I just didn't like the new one. It was tgoo bright for my taste. I did find a couple of new ones that I may use in the future, but for now I'm going to stick with this one.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
The visit
Yesterday I had the opportunity to visit a colleague at her school and observe everything. There is the possibility that I could be gainfully employed there come next school year, but only time will tell.
Having spent every waking hour of my educational experience, both as a student and teacher, in public school, it was a totally different experience to go to a Catholic school and notice the differences.
First of all, for the most part, things are the same, but after talking to her, it turns out that not everyone there is Catholic. There are even some atheist there. Nothing wrong with that, but why would you force yourself (or your child) to that? I suppose it could be a school thing, but I don't know how high or low the school's rank is.
As can be expected with any private school, there are spoiled rich kids. For instance, this one girl was running late to class, dropped her cell phone (not sure why she was even talking on the phone during school hours) and it got scratched up. So, she threw it away and said she'll get mama to buy her a new one. WTF?!? I don't know about you, but if I got a new cell everytime I dropped my phone, I'd own part of the company by now...lmao
I picked a rather strange day to visit, though, as it was a Mass day. Now, I'm a non-practicing Catholic, so it wasn't that big of a deal, I just had to go sit through mass for an hour. While sitting there, I got to thinking, the whole school is in the church. Many of them left their book bags out there on the benches and whatnot. If someone wanted to go rob the school or something, it could easily be done. I'm sure there is some kind of security or something, but still.
After Mass, the cattle..er...students...ran out of there like it was the last day of school! All the adults nearly got trampled! It was really quite hilarious now that I think about it. Take note...never get in the way of hungry teenagers that have been trapped inside a church for an hour in dress uniforms and are ready for lunch.
Speaking of uniforms, I still do not understand what some guys see in the Catholic school girl uniform. Maybe it's just me, but it does nothing for me. Not just for these girls, but when Britney Spears wore one in "...Baby One More Time" or Mariah Carey donned one for her video "Touch My Body", neither did anything for me (aside from the normal attraction...lol)
The school, like most high school in the south, is run by the football team (Eucharistic ministers apparently). These boys look like they've been hitting steroids hard and heavy. They're huge! Maybe even bigger than some of the college football players across town at LSU.
The school is in a bad part of town and looks to be ancient. Granted, the school that I currently work for was just built about 4 or 5 years ago, so anything would look old compared to that. The high school I graduated from was a bit older, but it at least was in good condition. A few state championships in football will keep the money flowing, especially in a small town...lol
One big difference between public and Catholic schools, at least this one, is that instead of hiring substitute teachers, they just use their own during their planning periods. Of course, they get paid a sub salary on top of the normal teacher salary.
It's no secret that teachers are underpaid in this country. It's ridiculous how the respectable professions like teaching, police and firefighter, etc. make just enough to live comfortably, while actors, athletes and the like get paid extremely excessive salaries, and then they say they don't make enough and demand more money. *SIGH* Guess that's just the way of the world, though.
So, I enjoyed my visit and learned alot. Some of the misconceptions I had about parochial schools have been corrected. Now I'm back in the realm of the public schools, but as soon as I get the chance to go back, I will...maybe as part of the faculty.
Having spent every waking hour of my educational experience, both as a student and teacher, in public school, it was a totally different experience to go to a Catholic school and notice the differences.
First of all, for the most part, things are the same, but after talking to her, it turns out that not everyone there is Catholic. There are even some atheist there. Nothing wrong with that, but why would you force yourself (or your child) to that? I suppose it could be a school thing, but I don't know how high or low the school's rank is.
As can be expected with any private school, there are spoiled rich kids. For instance, this one girl was running late to class, dropped her cell phone (not sure why she was even talking on the phone during school hours) and it got scratched up. So, she threw it away and said she'll get mama to buy her a new one. WTF?!? I don't know about you, but if I got a new cell everytime I dropped my phone, I'd own part of the company by now...lmao
I picked a rather strange day to visit, though, as it was a Mass day. Now, I'm a non-practicing Catholic, so it wasn't that big of a deal, I just had to go sit through mass for an hour. While sitting there, I got to thinking, the whole school is in the church. Many of them left their book bags out there on the benches and whatnot. If someone wanted to go rob the school or something, it could easily be done. I'm sure there is some kind of security or something, but still.
After Mass, the cattle..er...students...ran out of there like it was the last day of school! All the adults nearly got trampled! It was really quite hilarious now that I think about it. Take note...never get in the way of hungry teenagers that have been trapped inside a church for an hour in dress uniforms and are ready for lunch.
Speaking of uniforms, I still do not understand what some guys see in the Catholic school girl uniform. Maybe it's just me, but it does nothing for me. Not just for these girls, but when Britney Spears wore one in "...Baby One More Time" or Mariah Carey donned one for her video "Touch My Body", neither did anything for me (aside from the normal attraction...lol)
The school, like most high school in the south, is run by the football team (Eucharistic ministers apparently). These boys look like they've been hitting steroids hard and heavy. They're huge! Maybe even bigger than some of the college football players across town at LSU.
The school is in a bad part of town and looks to be ancient. Granted, the school that I currently work for was just built about 4 or 5 years ago, so anything would look old compared to that. The high school I graduated from was a bit older, but it at least was in good condition. A few state championships in football will keep the money flowing, especially in a small town...lol
One big difference between public and Catholic schools, at least this one, is that instead of hiring substitute teachers, they just use their own during their planning periods. Of course, they get paid a sub salary on top of the normal teacher salary.
It's no secret that teachers are underpaid in this country. It's ridiculous how the respectable professions like teaching, police and firefighter, etc. make just enough to live comfortably, while actors, athletes and the like get paid extremely excessive salaries, and then they say they don't make enough and demand more money. *SIGH* Guess that's just the way of the world, though.
So, I enjoyed my visit and learned alot. Some of the misconceptions I had about parochial schools have been corrected. Now I'm back in the realm of the public schools, but as soon as I get the chance to go back, I will...maybe as part of the faculty.
Time for a change
Well, I finally did it. I took the time to change the look of this blog. Not sure if I like it just yet. I had grown kind of attached to the old one, but I figured I'd try out something new. The layout I had originally picked out had too many ads on it, and I wasn't about to subject you readers to all that junk and slow your computers down, so I decided to keep it within a standard blogger template.
So, what do you think?
So, what do you think?
Uh oh, they're agitated
A friend of mine works at the local oil refinery across town. He was telling me how the other day he was walking by the offices and could hear the "suits" in there making all kinds of ruckus because they're losing money with this cheaper gas.
Oh well. They can deal with it! They may have forgotten, but it wasn't that terribly long ago that gas was this price. Just because they can't charge nearly $4 for gas they're having a cow.
All I got to say is what comes around, goes around.
*knock on wood* of course no that I've posted this, watch the prices shoot up...lol
Oh well. They can deal with it! They may have forgotten, but it wasn't that terribly long ago that gas was this price. Just because they can't charge nearly $4 for gas they're having a cow.
All I got to say is what comes around, goes around.
*knock on wood* of course no that I've posted this, watch the prices shoot up...lol
Rot in hell!!!!
Last night, I was all settled down and ready to watch a new episode of Chuck, but to my surprise and disdain, that blowhard Billy Graham had one of his specials come on instead. I was so pissed!
Luckily, A Charlie Brown Christmas, How I Met Your Mother, and Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles were on during the hour to somewhat make up for it. Entertaining, but I had my hopes set for Chuck. It was like expecting Fillet Mignon and getting soy burgers. Acceptable, but far from what was expected.
So, I have 3 words for Billy Graham and his damn specials. ROT IN HELL!!!!!
Luckily, A Charlie Brown Christmas, How I Met Your Mother, and Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles were on during the hour to somewhat make up for it. Entertaining, but I had my hopes set for Chuck. It was like expecting Fillet Mignon and getting soy burgers. Acceptable, but far from what was expected.
So, I have 3 words for Billy Graham and his damn specials. ROT IN HELL!!!!!
Monday, December 8, 2008
Musical Monday 15
This week's musical Monday entries are two songs I hope you enjoy. First up, is A-Ha's hit "Take On Me". Enjoy!
Since it's still December, how about another song to get you in the Xmas spirit. Let's have a bit of "Jingle Bell Rock".
Hope you enjoyed! Don't forget to sign in and comment! See you next week!
Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. One simple rule, leave ONLY the actual post link here. You can grab this code at LJL Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted.
Since it's still December, how about another song to get you in the Xmas spirit. Let's have a bit of "Jingle Bell Rock".
Hope you enjoyed! Don't forget to sign in and comment! See you next week!
Back Here
did one of these a little while back, and figured I'd do another one. Enjoy!
1. Put your iTunes/Winamp/Mp3 player etc on shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3.YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER HOW SILLY IT SOUNDS!
4.Tag 10 friends to do it next!
IF SOMEONE SAYS "IS THIS OKAY" YOU SAY?
Come to Me- P.Diddy ft. Nicole Scherzinger
WHAT WOULD BEST DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
This Moment- Disturbed
WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL?
Someday- Sugar Ray
HOW DO YOU FEEL TODAY?
Let Me Love you- Mario
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE?
Heartbreak Hotel- Whitney Houston & Kelly Price
WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
Knock 'Em Out- Lily Allen
WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
Pray- MC Hammer
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
It Ain't Over- Lenny Kravitz
WHAT IS 2+2?
Shadow of the Day- Linkin Park
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
Why Can't I- Liz Phair
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Short Fat Fannie- Larry Williams
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
Yearnin' Learnin'- Earth, Wind, & Fire
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
Do I Do- Stevie Wonder
WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Through the Fire- Chaka Khan
WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
Maria Maria- Santana ft. Wyclef Jean
WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING?
Answering Service- Gerald Levert
WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
Always Be- Jimmy Eat World
WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
Shattered Dreams- Johnny Hates Jazz
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET?
Something About You- Level 42
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
Amazing- Seal
WHAT'S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN?
Love and Affection- Nelson
HOW WILL YOU DIE?
Regulators- Warren G ft. Nate Dogg
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU REGRET?
Unfaithful- Rihanna
WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH?
Never Gonna Let You Go- Blackstreet
WHAT MAKES YOU CRY?
Tom Dooley- Kingston Trio
WILL YOU EVER GET MARRIED?
Waterloo- ABBA
WHAT SCARES YOU THE MOST?
American Life- Madonna
DOES ANYONE LIKE YOU?
Make 'Em Say Uhh- Master P
IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE?
Written All Over Your Face- Gerald Levert
WHAT HURTS RIGHT NOW?
Taking Chances- Celine Dion
WHAT WILL YOU POST THIS AS?
Back Here- BB Mak
1. Put your iTunes/Winamp/Mp3 player etc on shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3.YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER HOW SILLY IT SOUNDS!
4.Tag 10 friends to do it next!
IF SOMEONE SAYS "IS THIS OKAY" YOU SAY?
Come to Me- P.Diddy ft. Nicole Scherzinger
WHAT WOULD BEST DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
This Moment- Disturbed
WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL?
Someday- Sugar Ray
HOW DO YOU FEEL TODAY?
Let Me Love you- Mario
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE?
Heartbreak Hotel- Whitney Houston & Kelly Price
WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
Knock 'Em Out- Lily Allen
WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
Pray- MC Hammer
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
It Ain't Over- Lenny Kravitz
WHAT IS 2+2?
Shadow of the Day- Linkin Park
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
Why Can't I- Liz Phair
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Short Fat Fannie- Larry Williams
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
Yearnin' Learnin'- Earth, Wind, & Fire
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
Do I Do- Stevie Wonder
WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Through the Fire- Chaka Khan
WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
Maria Maria- Santana ft. Wyclef Jean
WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING?
Answering Service- Gerald Levert
WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
Always Be- Jimmy Eat World
WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
Shattered Dreams- Johnny Hates Jazz
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET?
Something About You- Level 42
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
Amazing- Seal
WHAT'S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN?
Love and Affection- Nelson
HOW WILL YOU DIE?
Regulators- Warren G ft. Nate Dogg
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU REGRET?
Unfaithful- Rihanna
WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH?
Never Gonna Let You Go- Blackstreet
WHAT MAKES YOU CRY?
Tom Dooley- Kingston Trio
WILL YOU EVER GET MARRIED?
Waterloo- ABBA
WHAT SCARES YOU THE MOST?
American Life- Madonna
DOES ANYONE LIKE YOU?
Make 'Em Say Uhh- Master P
IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE?
Written All Over Your Face- Gerald Levert
WHAT HURTS RIGHT NOW?
Taking Chances- Celine Dion
WHAT WILL YOU POST THIS AS?
Back Here- BB Mak
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Eye Candy vol 16
Female Hottie: Jessica Alba
Jessica Alba first burst into national attention on the Fox hit Dark Angel. Since then she has had an extremely successful movie career with roles in hit films Honey, Fantastic Four, Sin City, etc. Here's hoping her career is a long one. This woman is too gorgeous to fade away into obscurity.
Male Hottie: Denzel Washington
Denzel is an Oscar winning actor and has been one of the top leading men in Hollywood for as long as I can remember. He's also a devout family man. Last I heard, he was working hard on dropping some lbs for his next role. I don't really see what ladies see in him, but I'm sure no one will complain about him being in this spot.
Random Hottie from a movie or TV show seen this week: Yvonne Strahovsky
Chances are you're not too familiar with Yvonne. This Australian hottie is currently starring on NBC's hit show Chuck. As you can tell by looking at her, she's some definite eye candy.
MILF: Mary-Louise Parker
Mary-Louise Parker has been around for a fair amount of time, not to maker her sound old, though. She is starring in Weeds last I heard (don't have HBO, so I can't confirm that). Last I saw her was in the movie Saved. She is the mother of two, one of which is adopted, and has a body like that. Wow! Can we say MILF?!?
Classic/retro Hottie: Susan Sarandon
Susan may not be a conventional beauty, but she does have a nice body and body of work. She may be best known for her role in Thelma & Louise and her recent films Enchanted and Speed Racer. Not to mention her outspoken liberalness and her early role in The Rocky Horror Picture Show. She is married to actor Tim Robbins and they have a daughter, up and coming actress Eva Amurri.
Jessica Alba first burst into national attention on the Fox hit Dark Angel. Since then she has had an extremely successful movie career with roles in hit films Honey, Fantastic Four, Sin City, etc. Here's hoping her career is a long one. This woman is too gorgeous to fade away into obscurity.
Male Hottie: Denzel Washington
Denzel is an Oscar winning actor and has been one of the top leading men in Hollywood for as long as I can remember. He's also a devout family man. Last I heard, he was working hard on dropping some lbs for his next role. I don't really see what ladies see in him, but I'm sure no one will complain about him being in this spot.
Random Hottie from a movie or TV show seen this week: Yvonne Strahovsky
Chances are you're not too familiar with Yvonne. This Australian hottie is currently starring on NBC's hit show Chuck. As you can tell by looking at her, she's some definite eye candy.
MILF: Mary-Louise Parker
Mary-Louise Parker has been around for a fair amount of time, not to maker her sound old, though. She is starring in Weeds last I heard (don't have HBO, so I can't confirm that). Last I saw her was in the movie Saved. She is the mother of two, one of which is adopted, and has a body like that. Wow! Can we say MILF?!?
Classic/retro Hottie: Susan Sarandon
Susan may not be a conventional beauty, but she does have a nice body and body of work. She may be best known for her role in Thelma & Louise and her recent films Enchanted and Speed Racer. Not to mention her outspoken liberalness and her early role in The Rocky Horror Picture Show. She is married to actor Tim Robbins and they have a daughter, up and coming actress Eva Amurri.
There has to be a better name than this
Today I was grocery shopping in Wal Mart and in an effort to avoid the overcrosded aisles, I stayed at the end each one while the little woman went and got what we needed.
One of the aisles had "ethnic" food. You know stuff used to make foreign dishes. They were disgnated odd, or at least I think so. "Asian food", "Italian Food", "Latino Food".
Ok, so the only one that sounds weirs is the last one. I don't know how many of you are of Hispanic descent, but to me that sounds like some sort of dog food. Am I the on;y one that thinks this?
One of the aisles had "ethnic" food. You know stuff used to make foreign dishes. They were disgnated odd, or at least I think so. "Asian food", "Italian Food", "Latino Food".
Ok, so the only one that sounds weirs is the last one. I don't know how many of you are of Hispanic descent, but to me that sounds like some sort of dog food. Am I the on;y one that thinks this?
Friday, December 5, 2008
Comments 2.0
Back in August, I entered this post
Somewhere along the line, I got away from this policy. Obviously, I'm not going to back through all my posts since then and reply to everyone's comments, but starting with this month's comments, this policy will be reinstated.
Thanks to my friend Preston at Me and the Blue Skies for bringing this to my attention. Ev everyone should go over and check out his blog. It's worth the read (and drop if you're an entrecard person).
Greetings faithful readers and entrecard surfers. I just wanted to drop you all a quick note to say if you comment on this blog, don't forget to keep checking back. Chances are I'll reply back ASAP. Also, leave a comment and the favor will be reciprocated. Saying all that, I don't want you to think I'm begging for comment or anything, just letting you know how things work here. Thanks for reading!
Somewhere along the line, I got away from this policy. Obviously, I'm not going to back through all my posts since then and reply to everyone's comments, but starting with this month's comments, this policy will be reinstated.
Thanks to my friend Preston at Me and the Blue Skies for bringing this to my attention. Ev everyone should go over and check out his blog. It's worth the read (and drop if you're an entrecard person).
Thursday, December 4, 2008
In the merry old land of Oz
I know there are quite a few of you out there that love The Wizard of Oz and Wicked. A friend of mine who is obsessed with all things Oz brought to light his newest quest.
Apparently, the guy that created Hellboy and Spawn, came up with a Twisted Land of Oz comic and toy line.
Here are the pics.
Dorothy(with Munchkins)
Cowardly Lion
Scarecrow
Tin Woodman
Toto
The Wizard (with scientist)
Not sure if these look cool or creepy...or both
Flashback
Most of us remember the days when you would wake up on Saturday morning and see cartoons (hand drawn) from the wee hours until about noon. Ah, how I miss those days. However, one of the shows I remember fondest wasn't a cartoon at all, it was an arguably cheesy sitcom. Remember Saved By the Bell?
Normally when I wake up in the mornings, I turn on Good Morning America while I'm getting ready for work. However, this week, for some reason, had the TV on TBS and caught Saved By the Bell. Around here, the show comes on Saturday mornings in some form of syndication, and I knew it came on early on weekday morning, but I thought that was like 4 or 5, not 6 or 7.
I loved this show when I was in jr. high and high school. Time hasn't changed my feelings toward it, although it does make me reminiscent for my younger days.
Most of the cast has gone on to bigger and better things (we won't count Elizabeth Berkley's role in Striptease). In about 15 yrs, will we be saying the same thing about those Disney stars *cough* Miley Cyrus *cough*
In case you've never seen the show, or want a bit of nostalgia, here's a taste:
Normally when I wake up in the mornings, I turn on Good Morning America while I'm getting ready for work. However, this week, for some reason, had the TV on TBS and caught Saved By the Bell. Around here, the show comes on Saturday mornings in some form of syndication, and I knew it came on early on weekday morning, but I thought that was like 4 or 5, not 6 or 7.
I loved this show when I was in jr. high and high school. Time hasn't changed my feelings toward it, although it does make me reminiscent for my younger days.
Most of the cast has gone on to bigger and better things (we won't count Elizabeth Berkley's role in Striptease). In about 15 yrs, will we be saying the same thing about those Disney stars *cough* Miley Cyrus *cough*
In case you've never seen the show, or want a bit of nostalgia, here's a taste:
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
300!!!
No, I'm not talking about the movie. It appears that today I had 300 drops on this blog! Woot!
Wonder if it'll ever happen again (and how many actually read when they came through here)...lol
Wonder if it'll ever happen again (and how many actually read when they came through here)...lol
Changes coming
There will be changes coming to this blog in the next few days or so. A new layout and a new entrecard widget. Just wanted to give all a heads up before you come over and think you've come to the wrong blog. Fret not, though, the content will stay the same.
It's ok to be part of a fraternity, but this is too much
I can't believe what the Southern University band members have done. In case you haven't hear or read. Here is the article:
As a member of a fraternity myself, I know what it feels like to go through the hazing process, but I never had to endure anything anywhere near this. Obviously, I can't discuss what I went through, but I can say that the closest that came to this was just talk. I can't belive they actually did this, though.
Three members of the Southern University band were beaten with a 2×4 wooden board as part of initiation into the band’s french horn section, a probable cause report says.
Two of the victims remained hospitalized in serious condition Tuesday.
Six band members were arrested Tuesday and deputies were looking for a seventh suspect.
Tuesday morning, East Baton Rouge Parish sheriff’s deputies arrested Harvey Harrison and Carlos-Andres Carter, both 19 years old. They are each charged with aggravated battery and ritualistic acts. Both charges are felonies. Both men denied any knowledge of the incident, investigators said.
Tuesday afternoon, four additional suspects were arrested and also charged with Aggravated Second-degree Battery and Ritualistic Acts. The suspects include Jeremy Dixon, age unavailable, of Natchez, Mississippi, Joseph Lee Webb, age 21, of Columbus Georgia, Lagarian Bridgewater, age 22, of Baton Rouge, and Aubrey Harris, age 20, of Canton, Mississippi.
According to a witness, as part of the initiation ritual, “the three subjects were blindfolded and told to remove their shirts,” the probable cause reports says. “They then had water splashed on them as senior members of the organization struck them numerous times with open hands. The three victims were then told to bend over at the waist, and the senior members began striking them numerous times with a large wooden board, commonly referred to as a 2 x 4. One victim elected to stop the ritual after he had been struck over fifty times with the board. In a statement to investigators, he identified seven members of the French Horn section of the band who were present at the home and participated in the ritual,” the report says.
The report says the other two victims “did not ask to have the ritual halted, and later sought medical treatment at a hospital for their injuries.”
The report says the incident happened at a home on McClure Road in East Baton Rouge Parish as part of a hazing ritual to be “initiated into an unofficial fraternity known as ‘Mellow Phi Fellow’ for the French Horn section of the band, the probable cause report says.
“We have interviewed a witness, and have several suspects to interview today,” sheriff’s office spokeswoman Kellie Engels said Tuesday morning.
The band took part in Saturday’s Bayou Classic football game in New Orleans, which featured Southern University versus Grambling State.
Sources say hazing is nothing new within the Southern University band, but it depends on your definition of hazing. Our source within the band says most often, hazing usually hovers around paddling, slapping, or neckin,’ which is a stiff slap to the back of the head. It is in the form of older students picking on younger students, so they may earn their letters.
Sources say the two students in the hospital are both freshmen and from out of state.
The university would not release specific details of the incident and issued only a brief statement late Monday afternoon. In a two-line statement, the university wrote:
“We have received information that two members of the Southern University Marching Band were injured in an off-campus incident that is under investigation. ”Our thoughts and prayers are with these families and for the speedy recovery of our students.”
As a member of a fraternity myself, I know what it feels like to go through the hazing process, but I never had to endure anything anywhere near this. Obviously, I can't discuss what I went through, but I can say that the closest that came to this was just talk. I can't belive they actually did this, though.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Cancelled? How dare they?!?
I watch allot of TV...good, bad, and ugly. I've seen shows come, go, and come back, but the recent rash of cancellations baffles me. Pushing Daisies, My Own Worst Enemy, TRL, Lipstick Jungle, (supposedly), and Eli Stone have been cancelled this season already. Of these, the only one I watch is Pushing Daisies, but I'll get to that in a second.
The thing about all these shows is that they were cancelled without giving them a chance to flourish in other time slots. Sometimes, all it takes is a change of scenery for a show to rebound. For instance, The Simpsons was on Thursday night for a good portion of its early career, then its ratings started to falter and they moved it to Sunday, and well, the rest is history as it is now one of the longest running shows on TV today.
I know these cancellations are all about money, but what about the people that support them? Given the lack of advertising for most of these shows, and last season's writer's strike, is there any wonder they were struggling so in the ratings?
TRL is a different case because it is a casualty of MTV thinking they need to purge all music from its airwaves. Ironic for a network called MUSIC television.
Eli Stone and My Own Worst Enemy were heavily pushed by their respective networks. Eli even had Katie Holmes guest starring (which may have been the snake that broke the camel's back), and still didn't pick up the ratings.
*SIGH* Pushing Daisies is arguably one of the best shows on television. Critically acclaimed, fun, different, light hearted...guess people would rather watch the moody crime shows. Of course 90% of those are CSI or Law & Order. I can't tell you how infuriated I am about this cancellation. This is one of my favorite shows and should not have been cancelled without giving it chance in a different time slot. It had just hit its stride before the writer's strike, and then ti went off the air and was never seen again until the season started this year. Common sense should have told them to show reruns over the summer. It could have picked up some of the lost (or Lost)fans as well as some new ones that would have carried over into the new season, but instead they felt the need to show some crappy reality show that no one really watched.
Think back to some of the biggest shows in television history. Almost every one of them struggled for their first few seasons. Granted it was a different time, but shows back then were given time to develop. Think about if these shows were on the air today. Seinfeld, Cosby Show, etc. would have been gone before they could get going. Maybe I should become a czar of all television and see to it that nothing gets cancelled unless it deserves to be.
One more cancellation that irks me, well, its not a cancellation as much as it is a contract not getting renewed. The geniuses at TV Land have decided to not renew the contract for I Love Lucy.
Yes, you read right. The network known for classic TV shows is cancelling the penultimate classic TV show of all time. I was reading some of the message boards, and it seems as if I'm not the only one that thinks this is a bad idea. Many have gone so far as to say that TV Land's ratings will plummet. I don't know how true that is, but I do think there will be a drop. They seem to be hell bent on going in the new direction of showing shows from the 80s and 90s. Nothing wrong with that per se, but you can't just rid yourself of the true classics. What's wrong with a mix?
Of course they also want to be sure to have room for their sub par original programming (excluding Myths & Legends) and crappy reality. What are they thinking.
A bit of irony here...both Pushing Daisies and I Love Lucy are getting pushed aside for Scrubs. I like Scrubs, but its already on more channels than The Andy Griffith Show and The Cosby Show these days. Does it really need to be on TV Land right now? It can wait until its contract on Comedy Central or WGN runs out. Speaking of contracts, I Love Lucy is not going off the air just yet. Hallmark Channel has picked it up, but the times it will be coming on are odd. Think I know what I want for Xmas. An I Love Lucy box set!
So, as you can tell, I'm not happy with TV right now. It seems like every show I like gets cancelled. If the pattern holds up, then Bones, Friday Night Lights, MY Name is Earl, or Don't Forget the Lyrics will be next.
In case you were curious, this is my TV watching schedule. This is for the fall prime time only.
Sunday 7pm The Simpsons Fox
-occasional flip to Sunday Night Football
7:30 second half of RetroJams Retro Network TV
-occasional flip to King of the Hill Fox
8pm Family Guy Fox
8:30 American Dad Fox
9pm Mad Men (when it comes back)
Monday 7pm Chuck NBC
-occasional flip to Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles Fox
and/or
Dancing With the Stars ABC
7:30 occasional flip to How I Met Your Mother CBS
8pm Heroes NBC
-occasional flip to Unwrapped Food Network
9pm My Name is Earl (reruns) TBS
-occasional flip to Bones (reruns) TNT
Tuesday 7pm 90210 CW
-occasional flip to Dancing With the Stars ABC
8pm Fringe Fox
-occasional flip to Food Detectives Food Network
and/or
PrivilegedCW
9pmBizarre Foods Travel Channel
-random flipping during commercial breaks
Wednesday 7pm Pushing Daisies ABC
-occasional flip to Bones Fox
and/or
Knight Rider NBC
8pm Legend of the Seeker WGN
-occasional flip to The Cosby Show TV Land
9pm South Park Comedy Central
-occasional flip to Myths & Legends TV Land
9:30pm Chocolate News Comedy Central
Thursday 7pm My Name is Earl NBC
-occasional flip to Kitchen Nightmares Fox
7:30 Kath & Kim NBC
8pm Kitchen Nightmares Fox
8:30 30 Rock NBC
9pm Eleventh Hour CBS
- occasional flip to Charm City Cakes Food Network
9:30 occasional flip to The Sarah Silverman Program Comedy Central
Friday I haven't been home on Friday nights this fall yet because of football games.
Saturday Netflix night
These times are Central Standard Time.
So, what do you think? Has anything you watch been cancelled in the past or this year (yet)?
The thing about all these shows is that they were cancelled without giving them a chance to flourish in other time slots. Sometimes, all it takes is a change of scenery for a show to rebound. For instance, The Simpsons was on Thursday night for a good portion of its early career, then its ratings started to falter and they moved it to Sunday, and well, the rest is history as it is now one of the longest running shows on TV today.
I know these cancellations are all about money, but what about the people that support them? Given the lack of advertising for most of these shows, and last season's writer's strike, is there any wonder they were struggling so in the ratings?
TRL is a different case because it is a casualty of MTV thinking they need to purge all music from its airwaves. Ironic for a network called MUSIC television.
Eli Stone and My Own Worst Enemy were heavily pushed by their respective networks. Eli even had Katie Holmes guest starring (which may have been the snake that broke the camel's back), and still didn't pick up the ratings.
*SIGH* Pushing Daisies is arguably one of the best shows on television. Critically acclaimed, fun, different, light hearted...guess people would rather watch the moody crime shows. Of course 90% of those are CSI or Law & Order. I can't tell you how infuriated I am about this cancellation. This is one of my favorite shows and should not have been cancelled without giving it chance in a different time slot. It had just hit its stride before the writer's strike, and then ti went off the air and was never seen again until the season started this year. Common sense should have told them to show reruns over the summer. It could have picked up some of the lost (or Lost)fans as well as some new ones that would have carried over into the new season, but instead they felt the need to show some crappy reality show that no one really watched.
Think back to some of the biggest shows in television history. Almost every one of them struggled for their first few seasons. Granted it was a different time, but shows back then were given time to develop. Think about if these shows were on the air today. Seinfeld, Cosby Show, etc. would have been gone before they could get going. Maybe I should become a czar of all television and see to it that nothing gets cancelled unless it deserves to be.
One more cancellation that irks me, well, its not a cancellation as much as it is a contract not getting renewed. The geniuses at TV Land have decided to not renew the contract for I Love Lucy.
Yes, you read right. The network known for classic TV shows is cancelling the penultimate classic TV show of all time. I was reading some of the message boards, and it seems as if I'm not the only one that thinks this is a bad idea. Many have gone so far as to say that TV Land's ratings will plummet. I don't know how true that is, but I do think there will be a drop. They seem to be hell bent on going in the new direction of showing shows from the 80s and 90s. Nothing wrong with that per se, but you can't just rid yourself of the true classics. What's wrong with a mix?
Of course they also want to be sure to have room for their sub par original programming (excluding Myths & Legends) and crappy reality. What are they thinking.
A bit of irony here...both Pushing Daisies and I Love Lucy are getting pushed aside for Scrubs. I like Scrubs, but its already on more channels than The Andy Griffith Show and The Cosby Show these days. Does it really need to be on TV Land right now? It can wait until its contract on Comedy Central or WGN runs out. Speaking of contracts, I Love Lucy is not going off the air just yet. Hallmark Channel has picked it up, but the times it will be coming on are odd. Think I know what I want for Xmas. An I Love Lucy box set!
So, as you can tell, I'm not happy with TV right now. It seems like every show I like gets cancelled. If the pattern holds up, then Bones, Friday Night Lights, MY Name is Earl, or Don't Forget the Lyrics will be next.
In case you were curious, this is my TV watching schedule. This is for the fall prime time only.
Sunday 7pm The Simpsons Fox
-occasional flip to Sunday Night Football
7:30 second half of RetroJams Retro Network TV
-occasional flip to King of the Hill Fox
8pm Family Guy Fox
8:30 American Dad Fox
9pm Mad Men (when it comes back)
Monday 7pm Chuck NBC
-occasional flip to Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles Fox
and/or
Dancing With the Stars ABC
7:30 occasional flip to How I Met Your Mother CBS
8pm Heroes NBC
-occasional flip to Unwrapped Food Network
9pm My Name is Earl (reruns) TBS
-occasional flip to Bones (reruns) TNT
Tuesday 7pm 90210 CW
-occasional flip to Dancing With the Stars ABC
8pm Fringe Fox
-occasional flip to Food Detectives Food Network
and/or
PrivilegedCW
9pmBizarre Foods Travel Channel
-random flipping during commercial breaks
Wednesday 7pm Pushing Daisies ABC
-occasional flip to Bones Fox
and/or
Knight Rider NBC
8pm Legend of the Seeker WGN
-occasional flip to The Cosby Show TV Land
9pm South Park Comedy Central
-occasional flip to Myths & Legends TV Land
9:30pm Chocolate News Comedy Central
Thursday 7pm My Name is Earl NBC
-occasional flip to Kitchen Nightmares Fox
7:30 Kath & Kim NBC
8pm Kitchen Nightmares Fox
8:30 30 Rock NBC
9pm Eleventh Hour CBS
- occasional flip to Charm City Cakes Food Network
9:30 occasional flip to The Sarah Silverman Program Comedy Central
Friday I haven't been home on Friday nights this fall yet because of football games.
Saturday Netflix night
These times are Central Standard Time.
So, what do you think? Has anything you watch been cancelled in the past or this year (yet)?
Slip Slidin' Away
As we all know, last week was Thanksgiving. I think I posted a blog here about how the week before I got mega sick with what appears to be a stomach ulcer.
While I was down, I couldn't eat much. I think now it's starting to show becuse my watch is slippin' and a slidin' and some of my pants are a little looser(probably just water weight). Now, I'm sure this wasn't the healthiest way to drop some lbs, but hey you can't control your weight when you're throwing up everything except pudding, juice, and spaghetti-os.
Even weider is that usually the little woman eats way less than I do, partially becuse she has to because of her lap band thingy has been eating more than me.
Oh well, no big. Soon enough I'll be 100% back to normal. UNfortunatley, I think I'll have gained all the lbs I lost back by then...lol
While I was down, I couldn't eat much. I think now it's starting to show becuse my watch is slippin' and a slidin' and some of my pants are a little looser(probably just water weight). Now, I'm sure this wasn't the healthiest way to drop some lbs, but hey you can't control your weight when you're throwing up everything except pudding, juice, and spaghetti-os.
Even weider is that usually the little woman eats way less than I do, partially becuse she has to because of her lap band thingy has been eating more than me.
Oh well, no big. Soon enough I'll be 100% back to normal. UNfortunatley, I think I'll have gained all the lbs I lost back by then...lol
Monday, December 1, 2008
200th post
6 months ago I started this blog and this is my 200th post. I didn't want this momentous entry to be anything serious or depressing, but something fun and perhaos give you all a bit of info on me, so enjoy and here's to 200 more posts!
5 Things I Was Doing 10 Years Ago:
Attending Northwestern State University
Discovering the wonders of the internet
Getting drunk every night, and yet still waking up for 8 am classes
Working in the school computer lab
Lamenting being single
5 Things on My To-Do List Today:
Go to work
Grade papers
Keep my sanity
Wash dishes
Sleep
5 Snacks I Like:
cookies
candy
raisins
apples
chips
5 Things I Would Do if I Was a Millionaire:
pay off student loans
pay off my parents' house
buy a new car
buy a new house
put the rest away for a rainy day
5 Places I Have Lived:
Baton Rouge, LA
Natchitoches, LA
Ruston, LA
Ft. Worth, TX
Bellvue, NE
5 Jobs I Have Had:
High School Band Director
Computer Lab worker
R.A.
Assembly line worker
Fast food employee (gotta love Sonic)
Thanks to The Wise (*Young*) Mommy for this
5 Things I Was Doing 10 Years Ago:
Attending Northwestern State University
Discovering the wonders of the internet
Getting drunk every night, and yet still waking up for 8 am classes
Working in the school computer lab
Lamenting being single
5 Things on My To-Do List Today:
Go to work
Grade papers
Keep my sanity
Wash dishes
Sleep
5 Snacks I Like:
cookies
candy
raisins
apples
chips
5 Things I Would Do if I Was a Millionaire:
pay off student loans
pay off my parents' house
buy a new car
buy a new house
put the rest away for a rainy day
5 Places I Have Lived:
Baton Rouge, LA
Natchitoches, LA
Ruston, LA
Ft. Worth, TX
Bellvue, NE
5 Jobs I Have Had:
High School Band Director
Computer Lab worker
R.A.
Assembly line worker
Fast food employee (gotta love Sonic)
Thanks to The Wise (*Young*) Mommy for this
Another shameless plug
Early last month, I posted a shameless plug for my other blog. Well, here's another one. Feel free to take a read at my lastest entry in my other blog here.
Yes, I'm shameless...lol Don't forget to leave comments over there. Please and thank you!
Yes, I'm shameless...lol Don't forget to leave comments over there. Please and thank you!
Caught up
*WHEW* I never realized how much trouble it is to drop 300 cards in a day, but now I'mm all caught up. My apologies to those who dropped and I didn't get to reciprocate. Drop again and I'll surely get backc to you.
Now things should be back to normal around here and back on schedule.
Now things should be back to normal around here and back on schedule.
Musical Monday vol 14
Happy December everyone! This week's Musical Monday I'm going to give you some of my persona favorite musicians. You know people that actually can sing and play their own instrument, something that very few do these days.
The first video is from my idol, Louis Armstrong. Enjoy "What a Wonderful World"!
Hope that didn't make you too emotional. Let's change the mood up a bit with some Earth, Wind, & Fire. You know you want to get up and dance to "September".
That ends the favorite section of our program, but with Xmas coming up fast, I figured it'd be good to have some Xmas music in here as well. So, I hope you enjoy Donny Hathaway's "This Christmas".
Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. One simple rule, leave ONLY the actual post link here. You can grab this code at LJL Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted.
The first video is from my idol, Louis Armstrong. Enjoy "What a Wonderful World"!
Hope that didn't make you too emotional. Let's change the mood up a bit with some Earth, Wind, & Fire. You know you want to get up and dance to "September".
That ends the favorite section of our program, but with Xmas coming up fast, I figured it'd be good to have some Xmas music in here as well. So, I hope you enjoy Donny Hathaway's "This Christmas".
November Top Droppers
I wish to thank all my top droppers for November.
Computer Aid
Everyday Living
MamaFlo's Place
Mrs. G
ThinkingOutLoudBlog.com
Confessions of a Fitness Diva
Beyond Left Field
Juliana's Lair
The Ad Master
What the Bald Guy needs to know about sports
I also want to thank my top advertiser and biggest clicker Gas Saver and Oh Fer Cryin' Out Loud respectively.
Thanks to these fine folks, and all my other droppers and readers. Let's see who makes the list for this month.
Computer Aid
Everyday Living
MamaFlo's Place
Mrs. G
ThinkingOutLoudBlog.com
Confessions of a Fitness Diva
Beyond Left Field
Juliana's Lair
The Ad Master
What the Bald Guy needs to know about sports
I also want to thank my top advertiser and biggest clicker Gas Saver and Oh Fer Cryin' Out Loud respectively.
Thanks to these fine folks, and all my other droppers and readers. Let's see who makes the list for this month.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Eye Candy vol 15
Female Hottie: Alicia Keys
Alicia is a Grammy award winning singer and actress. Throughout all her success she has remained humble, a rare find these days, not to mention the fact she plays her own instruments. Talented and beautiful, is there any reason she makes this week's edition of "Eye Candy"? Side bit of info, Alicia's first acting role was in the Cosby Show. She was the little girl that got bounced on Cliff's knee at Rudy's birthday party. Bet you didn't know that.
Male Hottie: Robert Downey, Jr.
Talk about making a comeback! Has anyone had a bigger year than Robert Downey, Jr. this year? Movies such as Charlie Bartlett, Tropic Thunder and, in my opinion, the best movie of the year, Iron Man have people remembering that he is one of the best actors in Hollywood, even if he did have some problems and had to go to rehab. Apparently, the ladies never stopped loving him, though, so I figure he's deserving of this spot, plus he's Iron Man!
Random Hottie from a movie or TV show seen this week: Hilary Duff
Doesn't it seem like forever and a day ago when was Lizzie McGuire. My how she has grown up. Anybody want to call her "Duff Puff" after looking at this picture? Not with that stomach( even if there is some airbrushing done). Since the end of Lizzie McGuire, Hilary has had roles in movies and has released a couple of albums. Currently, she is in talks to star in a comedy for NBC and is promoting her newest album. She earns this spot for her role in War, Inc.
MILF: Gwen Stefani
A mixture of Cyndi Lauper and Madonna, with her own style, flair, and charisma, Gwen Stefani has made a name for herself in the music and recently the fashion industry. The mother of 2 is currently working off the baby weight from her son that was born in August as well as new music. "No Doubt" she is a MILF!
Classic/Retro Hottie: Elizabeth Taylor
Elizabeth Taylor is one of the most beautiful women to ever grace a movie screen. With 2 Oscars to her name and slew of ex-husbands (8), as well as those beautiful blue eyes, she is the gold standard when it comes to the "Hollywood lifestyle" of her time. At 76, she is still alive and kicking, but is rumored to have numerous afflictions such as osteoporosis, brain tumors, cancer, etc. She is confined to a wheelchair and is very reclusive, but still knows who she is and was.
Alicia is a Grammy award winning singer and actress. Throughout all her success she has remained humble, a rare find these days, not to mention the fact she plays her own instruments. Talented and beautiful, is there any reason she makes this week's edition of "Eye Candy"? Side bit of info, Alicia's first acting role was in the Cosby Show. She was the little girl that got bounced on Cliff's knee at Rudy's birthday party. Bet you didn't know that.
Male Hottie: Robert Downey, Jr.
Talk about making a comeback! Has anyone had a bigger year than Robert Downey, Jr. this year? Movies such as Charlie Bartlett, Tropic Thunder and, in my opinion, the best movie of the year, Iron Man have people remembering that he is one of the best actors in Hollywood, even if he did have some problems and had to go to rehab. Apparently, the ladies never stopped loving him, though, so I figure he's deserving of this spot, plus he's Iron Man!
Random Hottie from a movie or TV show seen this week: Hilary Duff
Doesn't it seem like forever and a day ago when was Lizzie McGuire. My how she has grown up. Anybody want to call her "Duff Puff" after looking at this picture? Not with that stomach( even if there is some airbrushing done). Since the end of Lizzie McGuire, Hilary has had roles in movies and has released a couple of albums. Currently, she is in talks to star in a comedy for NBC and is promoting her newest album. She earns this spot for her role in War, Inc.
MILF: Gwen Stefani
A mixture of Cyndi Lauper and Madonna, with her own style, flair, and charisma, Gwen Stefani has made a name for herself in the music and recently the fashion industry. The mother of 2 is currently working off the baby weight from her son that was born in August as well as new music. "No Doubt" she is a MILF!
Classic/Retro Hottie: Elizabeth Taylor
Elizabeth Taylor is one of the most beautiful women to ever grace a movie screen. With 2 Oscars to her name and slew of ex-husbands (8), as well as those beautiful blue eyes, she is the gold standard when it comes to the "Hollywood lifestyle" of her time. At 76, she is still alive and kicking, but is rumored to have numerous afflictions such as osteoporosis, brain tumors, cancer, etc. She is confined to a wheelchair and is very reclusive, but still knows who she is and was.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
The state of music
a friend sent this to me. for those of you that are offended by the language, I apologize.
The article pretty much says it all. Some good points were raised. Feel free to weigh in with your thoughts. I'm anxious to hear what you have to say.
What the Fuck Happened to Black Popular Music?
By Kenny Drew, Jr.
April 6, 2006
I've decided to add this section to my website as a vehicle to express my views on various topics, musical and otherwise, that have been on my mind lately. You may wonder why I'm talking about popular music in this first installment, since I am generally thought of as a "jazz" musician. However, anyone who knows me knows that my tastes in music are very eclectic (as are those of most jazz musicians, quiet as it's kept). In fact when I started my career as a professional musician, I was not playing jazz. I started out playing in R&B groups and Top-40 bands. We only played jazz if the club was almost empty!
The 60s - 80s was such an incredible time for all styles of popular music, but for the sake of this discussion I will concentrate specifically on black music (or rhythm-and-blues, or funk, or whatever the hell you want to call it).
Recently, I've been listening to a lot of my favorite music from that time, and to be honest, I am disgusted and sickened at how far our music has declined in the quality of the music and its message. How the hell did we get from Motown to Death Row; from Earth Wind & Fire to Ludacris; from Luther Vandross to 50Cent?
I remember a time in our music when songs had great melodies and chord changes, you actually had to be able to sing or play an instrument to become a musician, and Michael Jackson was black! It's a sad commentary on our culture and society when the biggest thing in popular music is an ex-crack dealer whose claim to fame is being shot nine times, and one of the greatest entertainers in the world was on trial for child molestation. If that's not a sign of the coming Apocalypse, I don't know what is! And if 50Cent was really shot nine times, why couldn't one of those bullets have hit a vital organ? Who the fuck was shooting at him: Stevie Wonder? And as far as all these black rappers getting shot, how about a little equal opportunity violence here? Can't somebody pop a cap in Eminem's white ass?
Another issue in the decline of music today is the stupidity and negativity in the lyrics and the video images that accompany this so-called "music". I recently discovered that there is now a form of rap called "coke rap", in which the lyrics deal mainly with the sale, distribution and use of cocaine and crack. I find it offensive that any record company would try to make a profit from glorifying something that has decimated the black community the way that crack has. I hope that one day while 50Cent is lounging by the pool in his humongous mansion surrounded by beautiful groupies, he might consider how many lives were ruined by the poison he used to sell, and how many more lives will be potentially damaged by the musical poison he's selling now.
"Another issue in the decline of music today is the stupidity and negativity in the lyrics and the video images that accompany this so-called 'music'."
There's a video by Ludacris that I've seen of a song called "Act a Fool". All I can remember about the video is that there were a lot of shots of him and his boys running from the cops. Don't we have enough young black men running around acting like fools without some idiot rapper encouraging it? (But then again, Ludacris probably makes more money in one month than I'll make in my entire life as a jazz musician. So who's the idiot here? Maybe it's me!) Remember when the lyrics in our music spoke of love or the loss of love? Who can forget the uplifting messages of peace, hope and spirituality in the lyrics of Earth Wind & Fire? Or the social consciousness and protest messages in the lyrics of Gil Scott-Heron and Marvin Gaye? How the hell did we get from "Just to be Close to You Girl" to "Back That Ass Up Bitch"? How the hell did we get from "What's Goin' On" and "You Haven't Done Nothin' " to "Me So Horny" and "My Hump"?
Last, but not least, it's time to address the musical quality of this bullshit, or more accurately, the lack of it. Way back when, when I first started studying music I was told that music had to consist of three elements: melody, harmony and rhythm. Rap music (an oxymoron similar to "military intelligence" or "jumbo shrimp") has basically discarded the first two elements and is left with nothing but rhythm.
Since only one element of music is present in most of this crap it doesn't even justify being called music. Our culture has been dumbed down to the point where your average dumb-ass American can't tell the difference between a truly great musician and somebody who's been studying their instrument for a week. Playing a musical instrument at a high level is no longer a well-respected skill in our society. (I'm not 100% sure that it ever really was.) In fact, to be honest, I think that most of the students in music schools today who are studying jazz and classical music are wasting their fucking time and their parents' money! (Boy, am I gonna get in trouble for saying this!) Why spend all that time mastering an instrument when you can just get a drum machine and a microphone, write some asinine lyrics about fucking, ho's and pimps and make a ton of money? Sometimes I wonder whether I'm wasting my time in this cesspool called the music industry. These days it seems like the only way to make any serious money in music is to produce some bullshit that doesn't even sound like music!
So what's the solution here? Damned if I know! But I did see an encouraging story on the news recently. A billboard advertising 50Cent's new movie was put up in a black neighborhood not far from a school. In the billboard 50Cent is seen with his heavily tattooed back to the camera with his arms outstretched in a crucifix-like pose with a microphone in one hand and a gun in the other. Understandably, the community was outraged. They held protests, got some media coverage, and eventually succeeded in getting the movie company to remove the billboard. I say that we use this as a model nationwide.
I propose a nationwide boycott of rap music; perhaps by picketing in front of record company offices and major record store chains. Anybody remember the "Disco Sucks" movement in the 70s? Maybe it's time for a "Rap Sucks" movement now. Who's with me here? (Actually, looking back on the disco era, that music sounds like Beethoven in comparison to the rap garbage that's poisoning our airwaves now!) Maybe we could have a big "Rap Sucks" rally somewhere. (As long as it doesn't escalate into a riot like the "Disco Sucks" one did.)
"It isn't where you came from, it's where you're going that counts." ---Ella Fitzgerald
The article pretty much says it all. Some good points were raised. Feel free to weigh in with your thoughts. I'm anxious to hear what you have to say.
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