I've always been an Al Gore fan, even through the bumbling campaign days, so I've been watching his development of the new network Current. But this was the most interesting quote I saw out of a presser today:
"I consider myself a recovering politician. I'm on step nine."
That's quite the statement from the son of a senator, a kid who grew up mostly in D.C. and was bred for a life in politics. But this is also someone who's had his heart broken by it, is sick and tired of trying to figure out how to properly make every word he says as uncontroversial as possible, and would rather just sit back, watch the spin and work with it in a dispassionate way. Journalism is a great place for former politicos. And I would know.
Twice upon a time, I got involved with politics on a level where it was pretty much a career (both times I was in college, so it wasn't something I actually got paid for.) All of my friends were basically in the biz along with me. And it was the place I'd dreamed about as a kid when I helped my daddy's friends on their local campaigns. Both times I left because the reality was so different from my idealism, and while I could be realistic and cynical, I couldn't change myself to fit the system. But both times I stayed interested and active on a personal level. Until the past few years, when all that having opposing viewpoints seemed to do is create personal drama with people I disagreed with politically but enjoyed otherwise. I'm a "live and let live" girl in a society where that's just not the status-quo anymore. So I know that I should do more (after all, how has the political party of my birth fallen out of favor so much?) but I'm sick of arguing and hatefulness. I'd rather volunteer for my pet projects, then sit back and play my own personal version of Jon Stewart to my cats, who love me unconditionally.
That said, I have to say that Bush's presser tonight for the Supreme Court nominee kind of bugs me. Not necessarily because of the nomination itself, which I can't bitch about before I know who it is. And not because it's preempted any shows I care about (although the rest of the newsroom is fit to be tied over missing Big Brother.) It's Dubya's recent trend of calling prime time newsers for anything remotely complimentary. Social Security plan? Schedule it for 7. A sorta-cohesive plan to get us out of Iraq? You'll see it at 8. It kind of reminds me of the blogger (we all know one like this, and I swear I'm not thinking of one specifically) who is always wanting attention for the things that make them look good but then delete all negative comments. "See what a great mom I am! Look at how I'm the most understanding friend in the world! My ideas or beliefs on *insert topic* are absolutely right. But if you disagree, you're just starting drama and aren't worth the space in my blog." And now it's that way with Dubya. Karl Rove? Don't even bother asking. But wow, look at this shiny new Supreme Court nominee to divert your attention!
(And for the record, I'm not saying that the Dems are all in the right about the Karl Rove/Plume affair. I think that there's plenty of blame to go around, no matter how slimy I personally find Rove. But free Judith Miller already!)
7.15.2005
Okay, there's a zillion people bitching about Pacman Jones, particularly if you're anywhere near talk-radio. I certainly wouldn't disagree. He's not done himself any favors this week after his arrest at the former Trap. Grinning and munching on a toothpick during your Night Court booking isn't cool. Having your agent go on the biggest sports-talk show in town the next day and talk about how the arrest isn't that big of deal is definitely not cool. We all do stupid things and hang out with stupid people in our early 20s, but our actions generally don't have millions of dollars of revenue riding on them. And being "ghetto"might fly in Atlanta, but not here.
Therefore, since the Titans presumably have some big-time negotiating leverage now, I have a proposal for how to possibly straighten this guy out and benefit the team at the same time. Keep in mind that what I know about NFL contracts and the legalities would fit on the head of a pin and still have room for the Lord's Prayer, but there has to be some way to work this out.
- Sign Pacman, but cut at least $750,000 out of his first year's contract in such a way that it frees that much room on the signing cap this year.
- Use that money to sign Eddie George (he's willing to play for his league-minimum, which is $750K.)
- Put some clause in that if Pacman keeps his nose clean legally for a calendar year from July 13, 2005 and spends at least five days a week training with Eddie, starting during training camp, he will get back that $750K, plus some sort of bonus (I'm being generous.)
Yes, I know that Eddie plays offense and Punkman (Joe Williams' nickname for him, not mine) plays D. Yes, I know that Eddie is now looking about as washed-up as the coast of Navarre Beach. But since Eddie left last year, I've learned his main asset to the Titans is not his ability to grind out yardage. He is pretty much the prototype of how to be a successful NFL player, especially in Nashville. His workout regimen is legendary, he's started at least two businesses outside of football, and he's a great family man. Also, he'll be the first to admit that he wasn't an angel in his early years in the league. He's not a perfect person or a perfect player, but his leadership is not only admirable, but necessary for this team. People learn by example, and I can't think of a much better example to show Pacman how to deal with the pressures of sudden fame.
The Titans are beginning to look like either the southern version of the Raiders or like a really bad reality show. So going into fantasy-mode here, the Titans could even capitalize on this whole thing by signing a deal with ESPN, moving Pacman into Eddie's home and packaging it as "Living With Eddie - When the player stops being ghetto and starts getting real." Now that would be interesting TV.
My last posted comment about the London bombings, and the ensuing Homeland Security debate:
This is more proof that the majority of terrorism is homegrown, even if the ideology is imported. Yes, Al Quaeda is America's #1 enemy and should be crushed like a grape, but there are a lot of groups who will give you an excuse to hate whatever country you're in and will give you the means to express it. Remember Timothy McVeigh.
Moving on.....
Proof that Anderson Cooper has a sense of humor about himself - he reaired John Stewart's hilarous comments on his hurricane coverage, and he pointed out these fabulous eBay auctions.
Potato "found" after Coop's Ramada live shot
A piece of the Ramada sign
Yes, you really can find anything on eBay.
BTW, if any of Paula Zahn's folks happen to read my blog, I would like to point out that the university in Raleigh, NC with the clock tower and the ugly red signs is N.C. State University. The school in Chapel Hill with the pretty Old Well and the classical light-blue signs is the University of North Carolina. They are definitely not the same school. On behalf of UNC alumni everywhere, please get those two straight before your next live shot out of Raleigh. Thanks.
Therefore, since the Titans presumably have some big-time negotiating leverage now, I have a proposal for how to possibly straighten this guy out and benefit the team at the same time. Keep in mind that what I know about NFL contracts and the legalities would fit on the head of a pin and still have room for the Lord's Prayer, but there has to be some way to work this out.
- Sign Pacman, but cut at least $750,000 out of his first year's contract in such a way that it frees that much room on the signing cap this year.
- Use that money to sign Eddie George (he's willing to play for his league-minimum, which is $750K.)
- Put some clause in that if Pacman keeps his nose clean legally for a calendar year from July 13, 2005 and spends at least five days a week training with Eddie, starting during training camp, he will get back that $750K, plus some sort of bonus (I'm being generous.)
Yes, I know that Eddie plays offense and Punkman (Joe Williams' nickname for him, not mine) plays D. Yes, I know that Eddie is now looking about as washed-up as the coast of Navarre Beach. But since Eddie left last year, I've learned his main asset to the Titans is not his ability to grind out yardage. He is pretty much the prototype of how to be a successful NFL player, especially in Nashville. His workout regimen is legendary, he's started at least two businesses outside of football, and he's a great family man. Also, he'll be the first to admit that he wasn't an angel in his early years in the league. He's not a perfect person or a perfect player, but his leadership is not only admirable, but necessary for this team. People learn by example, and I can't think of a much better example to show Pacman how to deal with the pressures of sudden fame.
The Titans are beginning to look like either the southern version of the Raiders or like a really bad reality show. So going into fantasy-mode here, the Titans could even capitalize on this whole thing by signing a deal with ESPN, moving Pacman into Eddie's home and packaging it as "Living With Eddie - When the player stops being ghetto and starts getting real." Now that would be interesting TV.
-----------------------------------
My last posted comment about the London bombings, and the ensuing Homeland Security debate:
This is more proof that the majority of terrorism is homegrown, even if the ideology is imported. Yes, Al Quaeda is America's #1 enemy and should be crushed like a grape, but there are a lot of groups who will give you an excuse to hate whatever country you're in and will give you the means to express it. Remember Timothy McVeigh.
Moving on.....
-----------------------------------
Proof that Anderson Cooper has a sense of humor about himself - he reaired John Stewart's hilarous comments on his hurricane coverage, and he pointed out these fabulous eBay auctions.
Potato "found" after Coop's Ramada live shot
A piece of the Ramada sign
Yes, you really can find anything on eBay.
BTW, if any of Paula Zahn's folks happen to read my blog, I would like to point out that the university in Raleigh, NC with the clock tower and the ugly red signs is N.C. State University. The school in Chapel Hill with the pretty Old Well and the classical light-blue signs is the University of North Carolina. They are definitely not the same school. On behalf of UNC alumni everywhere, please get those two straight before your next live shot out of Raleigh. Thanks.
-----------------------------------
A book that I'll be reading while I wait for Harry Potter tonight at the bookstore (but not buying): 100 People Who Are Screwing Up America (And Al Franken is #37). I have a feeling it'll piss me off right good, but it still looks interesting.
If you're not already sick of these two topics...
This is a hilarious sendup of the Karl Rove controversy, as well as the Harry Potter hype. And no, the spoilers aren't real. At least, I hope so.
Honestly, it amazes me how unspoiled Harry Potter has stayed, book after book. I know that bookstores have a lot to lose by leaking copies (i.e. getting to sell the next sequel and monetary fines) but now that there's only one book left, the power of that threat is diminishing. Plus there are a ton of people who have nothing to lose by sneaking in, popping a box, reading the last two chapters and then creating an anonymous blog to leak the goodies (note: I would never personally do that, so if this actually happens, don't look at me.) And if there's one thing that I've learned about online fandoms is that nothing is unspoiled. Back in my extreme X-Phile days, I knew what was happening in every episode at least three months ahead of time, usually six. And it's that way with every album, every TV show and movie and even every breaking news event, if you think about it (unless it's a truly breaking event, there's always some prelim activity that can tip you off beforehand.)
Yes, I will be buying the book at midnight, just as I have for the last four books. Right now I'm hatching my plan, because it's not as easy to do that in a big city as you'd think. Back when I lived in Carbondale, IL, I drove to the local B&N at 10:30, saw the line snaking around the building, turned around and ended up first in line at Wal-Mart. Easy as pie. Tonight I actually would like to go to the B&N that's closest to my apartment (Shopry Mills) but they're expecting over 200 people by 8 pm and several media trucks. Sorry, but I spend enough time around news trucks during the day. So I'm considering my options. Media Play at Hickory Hollow? Borders on West End? (EDIT: They're expecting 800+, so no way.) Or the boring way out and Wal-Mart? I bet there won't be a horribly long line in Bucksnort.
In any case, I don't think anyone will have any trouble finding me tomorrow. Between this and A Very Long Engagement's release earlier this week, I have an excuse to be a couch potato. Although it would be cool if anyone would like to go out Sunday. No reason....
Honestly, it amazes me how unspoiled Harry Potter has stayed, book after book. I know that bookstores have a lot to lose by leaking copies (i.e. getting to sell the next sequel and monetary fines) but now that there's only one book left, the power of that threat is diminishing. Plus there are a ton of people who have nothing to lose by sneaking in, popping a box, reading the last two chapters and then creating an anonymous blog to leak the goodies (note: I would never personally do that, so if this actually happens, don't look at me.) And if there's one thing that I've learned about online fandoms is that nothing is unspoiled. Back in my extreme X-Phile days, I knew what was happening in every episode at least three months ahead of time, usually six. And it's that way with every album, every TV show and movie and even every breaking news event, if you think about it (unless it's a truly breaking event, there's always some prelim activity that can tip you off beforehand.)
Yes, I will be buying the book at midnight, just as I have for the last four books. Right now I'm hatching my plan, because it's not as easy to do that in a big city as you'd think. Back when I lived in Carbondale, IL, I drove to the local B&N at 10:30, saw the line snaking around the building, turned around and ended up first in line at Wal-Mart. Easy as pie. Tonight I actually would like to go to the B&N that's closest to my apartment (Shopry Mills) but they're expecting over 200 people by 8 pm and several media trucks. Sorry, but I spend enough time around news trucks during the day. So I'm considering my options. Media Play at Hickory Hollow? Borders on West End? (EDIT: They're expecting 800+, so no way.) Or the boring way out and Wal-Mart? I bet there won't be a horribly long line in Bucksnort.
In any case, I don't think anyone will have any trouble finding me tomorrow. Between this and A Very Long Engagement's release earlier this week, I have an excuse to be a couch potato. Although it would be cool if anyone would like to go out Sunday. No reason....
7.11.2005
The wonderful things you can find online sometimes....
PublicRadioFan.com is fabulous. It's international, and it even lists podcasts!
And if you're into world music, these look like great resources.
If you haven't bought an iPod yet, this $35 plug-in-the-car MP3 player looks like a find.
Oh, and even if I do think that people should just get over the TomKat/Scientology thing, I do admit that Tom Cruise's (fake) blog is very funny.
And if you're into world music, these look like great resources.
If you haven't bought an iPod yet, this $35 plug-in-the-car MP3 player looks like a find.
Oh, and even if I do think that people should just get over the TomKat/Scientology thing, I do admit that Tom Cruise's (fake) blog is very funny.
If you haven't seen it...
Here's this generation's Dan-Rather-hanging-from-a-lightpole - Anderson Cooper almost getting clobbered by a Ramada sign. A lot of people are making fun of him online, so I hear. I personally thought it was cool and realistic (although watching it live was slightly freakish.)
I take back most that I've said about Hummers. I now really want a Hurricane One. Maybe then I could actually cover one of these suckers myself.
EDIT: Digital Spy agrees with me that CNN's hurricane coverage ruled.
I'd also like to mention that Jacqui Jares is the first weather person I've seen who was wearing bright green in front of a WX wall. As probably everyone knows, WX walls are generally green, and meteorologists (plus reporters and anchors who do standups there) have to be careful on what colors they wear, lest the weather keys show through their clothes. I'd be interested in seeing what their setup is.
I take back most that I've said about Hummers. I now really want a Hurricane One. Maybe then I could actually cover one of these suckers myself.
EDIT: Digital Spy agrees with me that CNN's hurricane coverage ruled.
I'd also like to mention that Jacqui Jares is the first weather person I've seen who was wearing bright green in front of a WX wall. As probably everyone knows, WX walls are generally green, and meteorologists (plus reporters and anchors who do standups there) have to be careful on what colors they wear, lest the weather keys show through their clothes. I'd be interested in seeing what their setup is.
7.09.2005
Hurricane Dennis Coverage
HurricaneNow.com claims that they'll have live streaming coverage as Dennis moves ashore. Unencumbered by the issues of large satellite trucks and stuff, they plan to move up and down the coast to wherever the eye finally comes to shore. I'm kind of interested in how this will work especially when the area loses power (and presumably highspeed Net access.) They also have email alerts and RSS feeds for their updates.
I have to admit to being a bit of a hurricane watcher. Having only been in one (Fran) around 100 miles inland, I've never personally had the full shoreline experience. My main sadness (other than the fact that Dennis is targeting my favorite part of the Panhandle, an area already more than battered from last year) is that Anderson Cooper is probably in London or traveling back, and I'd imagine he won't be doing CNN's coverage tomorrow night. His live hurricane reporting rocks.
EDIT: CNN has a Hummer set up as "Hurricane One" with some sort of bubble hydraulic system set up to keep a satellite shot going through the worst of it. I'm seriously in love, even if it does seem to be quite buggy. Satellite shots out of the parking lot of the Pensacola mall aren't cutting it for me.
I'm kinda intrigued that CNN is billing themselves as the "Hurricane HQ" and is doing wall-to-wall coverage of nothing but Dennis. It's smart, in a way, because the other two networks' coverage, frankly, sucks. But you're competing with the Weather Channel, and if you're south of here, other markets are probably simulcasting stations on the coast (when I was in Atlanta during Labor Day, I spent a migrained afternoon in my hotel room watching a simulcast out of a Florida station of Frances.) So I'm interested in how the ratings on this come out.
I would like to point out to the news networks that if we're watching continuous coverage, like you would if you're affected by a hurricane, we can tell when you air one package two or three times.
Anderson Cooper's now in Pensacola! *acts very fangirlish for a moment*
Screw it, it looks like Dennis is going to target my very favorite part of Florida - Navarre Beach. That's where I spent a lovely spring break Way Back Then with my aunt (yeah, my vacations are usually pretty tame) and absoultely loved it. I hope the sand bars survive. This is actually very depressing.
I have to admit to being a bit of a hurricane watcher. Having only been in one (Fran) around 100 miles inland, I've never personally had the full shoreline experience. My main sadness (other than the fact that Dennis is targeting my favorite part of the Panhandle, an area already more than battered from last year) is that Anderson Cooper is probably in London or traveling back, and I'd imagine he won't be doing CNN's coverage tomorrow night. His live hurricane reporting rocks.
EDIT: CNN has a Hummer set up as "Hurricane One" with some sort of bubble hydraulic system set up to keep a satellite shot going through the worst of it. I'm seriously in love, even if it does seem to be quite buggy. Satellite shots out of the parking lot of the Pensacola mall aren't cutting it for me.
I'm kinda intrigued that CNN is billing themselves as the "Hurricane HQ" and is doing wall-to-wall coverage of nothing but Dennis. It's smart, in a way, because the other two networks' coverage, frankly, sucks. But you're competing with the Weather Channel, and if you're south of here, other markets are probably simulcasting stations on the coast (when I was in Atlanta during Labor Day, I spent a migrained afternoon in my hotel room watching a simulcast out of a Florida station of Frances.) So I'm interested in how the ratings on this come out.
I would like to point out to the news networks that if we're watching continuous coverage, like you would if you're affected by a hurricane, we can tell when you air one package two or three times.
Anderson Cooper's now in Pensacola! *acts very fangirlish for a moment*
Screw it, it looks like Dennis is going to target my very favorite part of Florida - Navarre Beach. That's where I spent a lovely spring break Way Back Then with my aunt (yeah, my vacations are usually pretty tame) and absoultely loved it. I hope the sand bars survive. This is actually very depressing.
7.08.2005
More London Stuff
This will also be a collection post, updated throughout the day. Not so much the news this time but places to react, and to read reactions.
Here's a place where an LJer is collecting random quotes. From people involved in the bombings, to the mundane observations of life afterward (apparently the stores over there are sold out of chocolate cake), to Brits and others speaking out about what the attacks mean to them and their feelings toward the perps. Awesome stuff.
The BBC has one of their excellent reporters logs with an up-to-date look at what's going on. They also have a place for people to post their survivors accounts and how it's affected themselves.
We're Not Afraid. The pictures speak for themselves.
You can apparently send notes of condolence to the Queen through this site, but I'm personally not sure that she's the one who needs the most love given right now. No offense.
If anyone reading this is actually in the London area, there's a place to pledge to join a march of solidarity. You apparently need 100 people to sign to get a permit. 45 have done so as of now.
For the LJers - Today I'm A Londoner.
I'm on the hunt for a really good online condolence book for Americans to sign. If anyone finds one, lemme know.
Here's a place where an LJer is collecting random quotes. From people involved in the bombings, to the mundane observations of life afterward (apparently the stores over there are sold out of chocolate cake), to Brits and others speaking out about what the attacks mean to them and their feelings toward the perps. Awesome stuff.
The BBC has one of their excellent reporters logs with an up-to-date look at what's going on. They also have a place for people to post their survivors accounts and how it's affected themselves.
We're Not Afraid. The pictures speak for themselves.
You can apparently send notes of condolence to the Queen through this site, but I'm personally not sure that she's the one who needs the most love given right now. No offense.
If anyone reading this is actually in the London area, there's a place to pledge to join a march of solidarity. You apparently need 100 people to sign to get a permit. 45 have done so as of now.
For the LJers - Today I'm A Londoner.
I'm on the hunt for a really good online condolence book for Americans to sign. If anyone finds one, lemme know.
7.07.2005
London Explosions News Sources
Here's a combined feed of all major UK news sources.
Wikinews has a page for it, as well as Wikipedia.
KCRW World News is doing a live streaming feed of live BBC coverage.
Also, if you want to see an interesting combination of 'Net reaction, news and information, a little bit of speculation and people trying to find out news on their loved ones, here's a LiveJournal community devoted to what's happened, and a list of confirmed survivors.
Edit: You can't really call The Sun a reliable news source, but they have excellent pictures. Click here for their bombing story, and scroll down for a link to a slideshow of the devastation. The bus explosion pictures are particularly horrific.
I'm finding this quite interesting - Elonka, who is fairly well known for her expertise in cryptography (and who's a great blog read and a very nice person) is currently at the Manchester airport on her way to London, ultimately heading back to the U.S. tomorrow. She's pretty much liveblogging her experience during this, and it might be an interesting comparison post-9/11 reaction and security. Her blog might be one to watch today.
LBC 1152 AM is London's main talk-radio station. Here's a link to their print coverage of the London bombings. They also have a live-stream link to their station, which is doing live coverage.
If anyone knows enough Arabic to read it, here's the Al Quaeda letter on Der Spiegel. I couldn't read a word of it, but at least I know enough German to navigate the site. Dr. Seifert would be proud. EDIT: Here's the English translation.
Oh God, I spent the whole day looking at sources without turning to possibly the ultimate composite source for global news - Global Voices Online. Here's their London Bombing page, which has links to Flickr and Technorati feeds. DoWire has set up a "London Responds" wiki page, which has a lot of live blog coverage in several areas. And BoingBoing, as always, has a pretty comprehensive look at blogosphere coverage
I've tried to put what I could find different and useful on here since around 5 am this morning, when I woke up to the breaking news. There's no way to even begin to compile all the things I've seen and read today, and how much more I adore Brits (and I was already a wee bit obsessed.) "Stoic" is a word I've heard a lot today to describe the attitudes of Londoners. I prefer "strong". They got through the initial shock, realized that this is something that they've dealt with for thousands of years and will doubtless face again, and are showing that the best revenge is to live without fear. Whomever was truly behind this will find that this was possibly the most counter-productive move they could have made.
The best quote I've heard today was from British MP Simon Hughes at the end of Larry King Live, and it personified exactly how I feel they are dealing with what happened, how many Brits seem to feel about what has happened, and how we as a global society need to look at it to find a solution to the continued terrorism issue, even if it's not always a comfortable or easy thing to examine ourselves at the same time we examine our enemies:
You heard quite rightly that people have been very resilient. There was amazing calm really today. We've been there before. We'll come through. We're grateful for support. And very sincerely -- it actually does unite those of us who have suffered together.
There's always a bit of a tension that government wants to overreact in terms of legislative proposals. We're debating identity cards at them moment. People like me have always argued against them. We don't believe they're fundamentally what's needed. So there may be some arguments as to clamping down on the restrictions of the citizen.
But...the citizens could be anybody. And I hope that we remember the big battle is the battle against fundamentalism. And we have got to fight that on all continents. And get to the seeds and the roots of that. And it's the next generation who we have to wean away from fundamentalism in any faith and in every faith.
Wikinews has a page for it, as well as Wikipedia.
KCRW World News is doing a live streaming feed of live BBC coverage.
Also, if you want to see an interesting combination of 'Net reaction, news and information, a little bit of speculation and people trying to find out news on their loved ones, here's a LiveJournal community devoted to what's happened, and a list of confirmed survivors.
Edit: You can't really call The Sun a reliable news source, but they have excellent pictures. Click here for their bombing story, and scroll down for a link to a slideshow of the devastation. The bus explosion pictures are particularly horrific.
I'm finding this quite interesting - Elonka, who is fairly well known for her expertise in cryptography (and who's a great blog read and a very nice person) is currently at the Manchester airport on her way to London, ultimately heading back to the U.S. tomorrow. She's pretty much liveblogging her experience during this, and it might be an interesting comparison post-9/11 reaction and security. Her blog might be one to watch today.
LBC 1152 AM is London's main talk-radio station. Here's a link to their print coverage of the London bombings. They also have a live-stream link to their station, which is doing live coverage.
If anyone knows enough Arabic to read it, here's the Al Quaeda letter on Der Spiegel. I couldn't read a word of it, but at least I know enough German to navigate the site. Dr. Seifert would be proud. EDIT: Here's the English translation.
Oh God, I spent the whole day looking at sources without turning to possibly the ultimate composite source for global news - Global Voices Online. Here's their London Bombing page, which has links to Flickr and Technorati feeds. DoWire has set up a "London Responds" wiki page, which has a lot of live blog coverage in several areas. And BoingBoing, as always, has a pretty comprehensive look at blogosphere coverage
I've tried to put what I could find different and useful on here since around 5 am this morning, when I woke up to the breaking news. There's no way to even begin to compile all the things I've seen and read today, and how much more I adore Brits (and I was already a wee bit obsessed.) "Stoic" is a word I've heard a lot today to describe the attitudes of Londoners. I prefer "strong". They got through the initial shock, realized that this is something that they've dealt with for thousands of years and will doubtless face again, and are showing that the best revenge is to live without fear. Whomever was truly behind this will find that this was possibly the most counter-productive move they could have made.
The best quote I've heard today was from British MP Simon Hughes at the end of Larry King Live, and it personified exactly how I feel they are dealing with what happened, how many Brits seem to feel about what has happened, and how we as a global society need to look at it to find a solution to the continued terrorism issue, even if it's not always a comfortable or easy thing to examine ourselves at the same time we examine our enemies:
You heard quite rightly that people have been very resilient. There was amazing calm really today. We've been there before. We'll come through. We're grateful for support. And very sincerely -- it actually does unite those of us who have suffered together.
There's always a bit of a tension that government wants to overreact in terms of legislative proposals. We're debating identity cards at them moment. People like me have always argued against them. We don't believe they're fundamentally what's needed. So there may be some arguments as to clamping down on the restrictions of the citizen.
But...the citizens could be anybody. And I hope that we remember the big battle is the battle against fundamentalism. And we have got to fight that on all continents. And get to the seeds and the roots of that. And it's the next generation who we have to wean away from fundamentalism in any faith and in every faith.
7.04.2005
Live 8 goodness
For anyone's who's interested, here's a link to download the London Live 8 sets. I hope that these pop up for all the countries, because I HAVE to have the Pet Shop Boys' live version of "You Were On My Mind" from Tokyo NOW.
I have a lot to say on this, but I hurt my back earlier, so no computer. But for now, all I have to say is that the performances were incredible, and I take back what I said a few weeks back. It is possible to remake Live Aid and it not suck. I just hope they make a difference this time.
www.one.org
I have a lot to say on this, but I hurt my back earlier, so no computer. But for now, all I have to say is that the performances were incredible, and I take back what I said a few weeks back. It is possible to remake Live Aid and it not suck. I just hope they make a difference this time.
www.one.org
7.01.2005
Can we have "Supreme Court Idol"?
Unlike most of the liberals I've seen around the blogosphere, I'm not going to go Chicken Little on y'all. You have to look at history to see how Supreme Court nominations go, and any smart president (or at least his smart advisors) would have to know that you don't always get what you want when you try for the extremes. So I'm going to hope for sanity, not stubborness. However, if the words "Supreme Court nominee John Ashcroft" appear anywhere in the next few weeks, I reserve the right to freak.
Someone elsewhere posted this really interesting excerpt of Orrin Hatch's autobiography:
[It] was not a surprise when the President called to talk about the appointment and what he was thinking of doing.
President Clinton indicated he was leaning toward nominating Bruce Babbitt, his Secretary of the Interior, a name that had been bouncing around in the press. Bruce, a well-known western Democrat, had been the governor of Arizona and a candidate for president in 1988. Although he had been a state attorney general back during the 1970s, he was known far more for his activities as a politician than as a jurist. Clinton asked for my reaction.
I told him that confirmation would not be easy. At least one Democrat would probably vote against Bruce, and there would be a great deal of resistance from the Republican side. I explained to the President that although he might prevail in the end, he should consider whether he wanted a tough, political battle over his first appointment to the Court.
Our conversation moved to other potential candidates. I asked whether he had considered Judge Stephen Breyer of the First Circuit Court of Appeals or Judge Ruth Bader Ginsburg of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals. President Clinton indicated he had heard Breyer’s name but had not thought about Judge Ginsberg.
I indicated I thought they would be confirmed easily. I knew them both and believed that, while liberal, they were highly honest and capable jurists and their confirmation would not embarrass the President. From my perspective, they were far better than the other likely candidates from a liberal Democrat administration.
In the end, the President did not select Secretary Babbitt. Instead, he nominated Judge Ginsburg and Judge Breyer a year later, when Harry Blackmun retired from the Court. Both were confirmed with relative ease.
I can only hope that Bush makes his choice with so much forethought.
Someone elsewhere posted this really interesting excerpt of Orrin Hatch's autobiography:
[It] was not a surprise when the President called to talk about the appointment and what he was thinking of doing.
President Clinton indicated he was leaning toward nominating Bruce Babbitt, his Secretary of the Interior, a name that had been bouncing around in the press. Bruce, a well-known western Democrat, had been the governor of Arizona and a candidate for president in 1988. Although he had been a state attorney general back during the 1970s, he was known far more for his activities as a politician than as a jurist. Clinton asked for my reaction.
I told him that confirmation would not be easy. At least one Democrat would probably vote against Bruce, and there would be a great deal of resistance from the Republican side. I explained to the President that although he might prevail in the end, he should consider whether he wanted a tough, political battle over his first appointment to the Court.
Our conversation moved to other potential candidates. I asked whether he had considered Judge Stephen Breyer of the First Circuit Court of Appeals or Judge Ruth Bader Ginsburg of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals. President Clinton indicated he had heard Breyer’s name but had not thought about Judge Ginsberg.
I indicated I thought they would be confirmed easily. I knew them both and believed that, while liberal, they were highly honest and capable jurists and their confirmation would not embarrass the President. From my perspective, they were far better than the other likely candidates from a liberal Democrat administration.
In the end, the President did not select Secretary Babbitt. Instead, he nominated Judge Ginsburg and Judge Breyer a year later, when Harry Blackmun retired from the Court. Both were confirmed with relative ease.
I can only hope that Bush makes his choice with so much forethought.
6.30.2005
My periodic movie rant
Here are the reasons why I still plan to see War of the Worlds, despite all the negative hype.
- I love Steven Spielberg films almost universally. Sure, not all of them are "fine film", but they're all sensational and emotional and pretty fun. Even if the world's population is being exterminated.
- I love movies with aliens. After all, my X-Files obsession started with the movie, which I saw five times in theatres (yes, it's really not that good.) I can get over my fear of horror films for Alien. And I still watch Independence Day every time it shows up on FX. Hey, I'm not saying that I'm watching good movies with aliens, but something about seeing this weird unhuman creature wreaking havoc on humans just because we're not as smart as they are or because they need our stuff is just fun for me.
- I've never been a big Tom Cruise fan, but I did love Minority Report, which seems to be very similar to this one. I thought that was one of his more believable roles, and that says a lot about my opinion of his true talent. (However, his best role ever was in Magnolia, where he really probably just played himself.)
- The Church of Scientology didn't make this film, and it's pretty unfair to blame it for one star's kooky beliefs and behavior. Besides, people are now just going nuts to find out one more thing to make fun of on this guy. Yes, his views on psychiatry are archaic, but the alien thing is just silly. And if we're in the business of boycotting people because of religious beliefs that defy your own brand of logic, there are lots of stones to throw at glass houses. Ever read The Book of Mormon? Some of those core beliefs are pretty darn entertaining for a non-believer. But who's to say that they're wrong? By the same token, let Tom and Katie work on getting "clear" in peace.
- Dakota Fanning is a cutie, and a really good actress. Just hope she doesn't grow up too fast like certain other actresses who had young careers.
- Finally, it's the Fourth of July weekend. What else am I supposed to do but go watch crap blow up onscreen? My only sadness is that Will Smith didn't somehow get a bit part in this.
- I love Steven Spielberg films almost universally. Sure, not all of them are "fine film", but they're all sensational and emotional and pretty fun. Even if the world's population is being exterminated.
- I love movies with aliens. After all, my X-Files obsession started with the movie, which I saw five times in theatres (yes, it's really not that good.) I can get over my fear of horror films for Alien. And I still watch Independence Day every time it shows up on FX. Hey, I'm not saying that I'm watching good movies with aliens, but something about seeing this weird unhuman creature wreaking havoc on humans just because we're not as smart as they are or because they need our stuff is just fun for me.
- I've never been a big Tom Cruise fan, but I did love Minority Report, which seems to be very similar to this one. I thought that was one of his more believable roles, and that says a lot about my opinion of his true talent. (However, his best role ever was in Magnolia, where he really probably just played himself.)
- The Church of Scientology didn't make this film, and it's pretty unfair to blame it for one star's kooky beliefs and behavior. Besides, people are now just going nuts to find out one more thing to make fun of on this guy. Yes, his views on psychiatry are archaic, but the alien thing is just silly. And if we're in the business of boycotting people because of religious beliefs that defy your own brand of logic, there are lots of stones to throw at glass houses. Ever read The Book of Mormon? Some of those core beliefs are pretty darn entertaining for a non-believer. But who's to say that they're wrong? By the same token, let Tom and Katie work on getting "clear" in peace.
- Dakota Fanning is a cutie, and a really good actress. Just hope she doesn't grow up too fast like certain other actresses who had young careers.
- Finally, it's the Fourth of July weekend. What else am I supposed to do but go watch crap blow up onscreen? My only sadness is that Will Smith didn't somehow get a bit part in this.
6.21.2005
Things of interest for the day...
- I know I'm probably wrong (heck, she was once married to Tommy Lee) but Heather Locklear sounds like the most well-adjusted celebrity ever. How many women would ever admit that they find perfection boring, especially when they look like her? Not to mention another interview I saw with her today talks about how much she likes kinky hijinks with her hubby (I'll leave that one for y'all to find.) It's kind of refreshing to see articles about people who actually enjoy married life.
- Jon Krakauer, who wrote "Under The Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith" in 2003 about a polygamous Mormon sect, is now participating in the search for the group's fugitive leader. It's nice to see a successful author put his money (or time) where his mouth is. If you've read the book (and if you haven't, you should) it talks about the pattern of domestic and sexual abuse that's been documented throughout this group. I'm not one to tell anyone what to do with their religion, but when it comes to hurting people for your own gain, there's no religion in that. I hope they catch Warren Jeffs soon (which is unlikely since he's almost definitely in Mexico.)
- Okay, I'll admit it. I'm freaking sick of everyone freaking out over TomKat. No one has to believe that Tom Cruise has all his marbles and is involved in the most believable of philosophies (note: Scientology is a philosophy, not a religion. That's why Katie Holmes can be both Catholic and Scientologist.) Nor does everyone have to think that Katie's making the most reasoned of decisions in becoming engaged to a man she met two months ago. But people, these guys are adults. Moreover, Katie is 23 and has lived in Hollywood for years. This is not some schoolgirl fresh off the farm from Kansas. - she's drunk the LA Kool-Aid and not run home. So take that boulder of salt and give these kids a chance to actually really be in love. It does happen - my parents married six weeks after they met and have now been going strong for 35 years. In any case, they're old enough to know better, and they don't care. So neither should we.
Edit: Before anyone wants to point this out, my original instinct in this case was to think that the relationship was a publicity ploy. Yes, I'm a cynic. But I'm even more of a romantic, and I'd like to see the unbelievable become believable in the long run.
- Some people have no sense of humor. So watching Paris Hilton soap up on a Bentley wearing what amounts to two long scarves is good for TV, but a Shoney's ad that uses the line "passing Gas" (the town) isn't? Not that I'm saying they should pull the Carl's Jr. ad, but I'm the one who likes to make the decision what's tasteful enough for me not to TiVo-fast-forward through it.
- And yes, I'm very happy that they found the missing Boy Scout hiker. Just like I was very happy when Elizabeth Smart was found alive after nine months in captivity. Both of those people are cute white kids. So yes, I'm a hypocrite. But aren't we all?
- Spin has released their list of the top 10 most influential albums of the past 20 years. Of course I have my quibbles here. I am one of about 10 people who thinks that Radiohead is largely overrated, but I do agree that "OK Computer" should be on the list. Just not #1. The Public Enemy album is spot-on, and NWA should be higher than #10. I ould've switched Pearl Jam with Nirvana, simply because I think they completely blew grunge up after Nirvana brought it into the public eye. Otherwise, I'll leave it alone.
- So Charlotte Church apparently loves to down a few when she goes out. What exactly is the time frame on this? There's a great difference between going to the club every few weeks and getting wasted and drinking all that booze on a daily basis. Yes, it's binge drinking, but that's the same sort of stuff that goes on every weekend on most college campuses, and lots of those people come out it without rehab. If you think that most people don't have a 72-hour bender under their belt by the time they're 25, you're in a different world than I. Heck, it takes things like that to make you into a reasonably-sober person as an older adult, because you realize that non-stop partying is not what it's cracked out to be.
- I have to say that I'm looking forward to the new David Spade show on Comedy Central. My reactions to his brand of comedy have been hit-and-miss (excellent on SNL, not so much on 8 Simple Rules) but this sounds like it's going back to his SNL formula of celebrity-snarking. Wonder if they can sign Kathy Griffith as a correspondant?
- It's a crying shame when stupid trolls screw up the best experiment made by a newspaper in the new-media direction. Can't they just hang out on Usenet and leave the rest of the 'net alone?
- My new favorite site: British Sitcom Guide. If you've ever had an addiction to a particular show (old, really old, or new) here's the place to go for episode guides and other cool stuff. For instance, I didn't know you could buy The Office's second series scripts until now....
- Jon Krakauer, who wrote "Under The Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith" in 2003 about a polygamous Mormon sect, is now participating in the search for the group's fugitive leader. It's nice to see a successful author put his money (or time) where his mouth is. If you've read the book (and if you haven't, you should) it talks about the pattern of domestic and sexual abuse that's been documented throughout this group. I'm not one to tell anyone what to do with their religion, but when it comes to hurting people for your own gain, there's no religion in that. I hope they catch Warren Jeffs soon (which is unlikely since he's almost definitely in Mexico.)
- Okay, I'll admit it. I'm freaking sick of everyone freaking out over TomKat. No one has to believe that Tom Cruise has all his marbles and is involved in the most believable of philosophies (note: Scientology is a philosophy, not a religion. That's why Katie Holmes can be both Catholic and Scientologist.) Nor does everyone have to think that Katie's making the most reasoned of decisions in becoming engaged to a man she met two months ago. But people, these guys are adults. Moreover, Katie is 23 and has lived in Hollywood for years. This is not some schoolgirl fresh off the farm from Kansas. - she's drunk the LA Kool-Aid and not run home. So take that boulder of salt and give these kids a chance to actually really be in love. It does happen - my parents married six weeks after they met and have now been going strong for 35 years. In any case, they're old enough to know better, and they don't care. So neither should we.
Edit: Before anyone wants to point this out, my original instinct in this case was to think that the relationship was a publicity ploy. Yes, I'm a cynic. But I'm even more of a romantic, and I'd like to see the unbelievable become believable in the long run.
- Some people have no sense of humor. So watching Paris Hilton soap up on a Bentley wearing what amounts to two long scarves is good for TV, but a Shoney's ad that uses the line "passing Gas" (the town) isn't? Not that I'm saying they should pull the Carl's Jr. ad, but I'm the one who likes to make the decision what's tasteful enough for me not to TiVo-fast-forward through it.
- And yes, I'm very happy that they found the missing Boy Scout hiker. Just like I was very happy when Elizabeth Smart was found alive after nine months in captivity. Both of those people are cute white kids. So yes, I'm a hypocrite. But aren't we all?
- Spin has released their list of the top 10 most influential albums of the past 20 years. Of course I have my quibbles here. I am one of about 10 people who thinks that Radiohead is largely overrated, but I do agree that "OK Computer" should be on the list. Just not #1. The Public Enemy album is spot-on, and NWA should be higher than #10. I ould've switched Pearl Jam with Nirvana, simply because I think they completely blew grunge up after Nirvana brought it into the public eye. Otherwise, I'll leave it alone.
- So Charlotte Church apparently loves to down a few when she goes out. What exactly is the time frame on this? There's a great difference between going to the club every few weeks and getting wasted and drinking all that booze on a daily basis. Yes, it's binge drinking, but that's the same sort of stuff that goes on every weekend on most college campuses, and lots of those people come out it without rehab. If you think that most people don't have a 72-hour bender under their belt by the time they're 25, you're in a different world than I. Heck, it takes things like that to make you into a reasonably-sober person as an older adult, because you realize that non-stop partying is not what it's cracked out to be.
- I have to say that I'm looking forward to the new David Spade show on Comedy Central. My reactions to his brand of comedy have been hit-and-miss (excellent on SNL, not so much on 8 Simple Rules) but this sounds like it's going back to his SNL formula of celebrity-snarking. Wonder if they can sign Kathy Griffith as a correspondant?
- It's a crying shame when stupid trolls screw up the best experiment made by a newspaper in the new-media direction. Can't they just hang out on Usenet and leave the rest of the 'net alone?
- My new favorite site: British Sitcom Guide. If you've ever had an addiction to a particular show (old, really old, or new) here's the place to go for episode guides and other cool stuff. For instance, I didn't know you could buy The Office's second series scripts until now....
6.20.2005
Save my brain food, please!
I usually take all MoveOn.org mailings with a boulder of salt. Like a friend said, they tend to make 4-alarm fires out of burning food in the kitchen. But this one checks out, and hits really close to home.
Last week, a House subcommittee voted to sharply reduce federal funding for public broadcasting (including NPR, PBS, and public radio and TV affiliates,) and plan on completely ending it within a few years. Don't believe me? Go to Snopes and read the bottom paragraph. It looks like Sesame Street isn't in danger, since most of their funding comes from other sources. The same cannot be said for public radio and TV stations, who are woefully underfunded to begin with.
I agree with Jeff Jarvis' idea that the best way to save public broadcasting is to completely make it independent of government funding. However, I think that this might not actually happen in time to actually save the affiliates, who are almost always running on empty.
As I said in my signing of the MoveOn.org petition, I learned how to read at the age of 3 watching Sesame Street and Electric Company. Now my 3-year-old niece is learning the same way by watching PBS Kids (her mother stays away from Teletubbies, however.) As a news professional, NPR is one of my major sources for in-depth reporting that's not attached to a time-slot or agenda. Cutting funding for these things would be like cutting the PE departments out of elementary schools. PBS children's programming is like exercise for the mind, and NPR does the same for adults. I can't think of a worse way to send a message about the priorities (or agenda) of government than this.
Last week, a House subcommittee voted to sharply reduce federal funding for public broadcasting (including NPR, PBS, and public radio and TV affiliates,) and plan on completely ending it within a few years. Don't believe me? Go to Snopes and read the bottom paragraph. It looks like Sesame Street isn't in danger, since most of their funding comes from other sources. The same cannot be said for public radio and TV stations, who are woefully underfunded to begin with.
I agree with Jeff Jarvis' idea that the best way to save public broadcasting is to completely make it independent of government funding. However, I think that this might not actually happen in time to actually save the affiliates, who are almost always running on empty.
As I said in my signing of the MoveOn.org petition, I learned how to read at the age of 3 watching Sesame Street and Electric Company. Now my 3-year-old niece is learning the same way by watching PBS Kids (her mother stays away from Teletubbies, however.) As a news professional, NPR is one of my major sources for in-depth reporting that's not attached to a time-slot or agenda. Cutting funding for these things would be like cutting the PE departments out of elementary schools. PBS children's programming is like exercise for the mind, and NPR does the same for adults. I can't think of a worse way to send a message about the priorities (or agenda) of government than this.
6.17.2005
A few little things on the run...
- This afternoon I had to make an unexpected trip to the Nashville Superspeedway in Gladeville, TN, and managed to get myself stuck in the worst traffic I've ever seen, and I've driven in LA and Chicago. There are great advantages to living three exits from work and working a weird schedule. I highly recommend that more Nashville commuters try it.
- Remember the scene in "Pulp Fiction" where Uma Thurman's character orders a $5 shake, John Travolta flipped out over the price and then says it's a damn good shake? Hardee's makes the best damn shakes on the planet now, and they aren't $5 (or, as it would be if that movie were made today, $7.50.)
- One of my best friends in the world, horror author Elizabeth Donald, is a visiting author at HyperiCon this weekend, and she's doing a reading from, amongst other things, her upcoming vampire novel tomorrow afternoon at 1. Elizabeth is a working journalist in Edwardsville, IL but moonlights as a published author, and her work makes for excellent readings. And I know that a lot of Nashville's blogosphere is not into cons, and I'm not even a big sci-fi person (except for my XPhiledom), but I'm really glad Nashville is getting one, because they can bring in some great tax revenue (ask the folks at Dragon*Con in Atlanta, which is enormous) and very nice folks. So if you'd like a little Memphis-spiced vampire fiction with a distinct snarky edge and strong female characters, come by and hear Elizabeth, and stay for the other stuff.
-
- Remember the scene in "Pulp Fiction" where Uma Thurman's character orders a $5 shake, John Travolta flipped out over the price and then says it's a damn good shake? Hardee's makes the best damn shakes on the planet now, and they aren't $5 (or, as it would be if that movie were made today, $7.50.)
- One of my best friends in the world, horror author Elizabeth Donald, is a visiting author at HyperiCon this weekend, and she's doing a reading from, amongst other things, her upcoming vampire novel tomorrow afternoon at 1. Elizabeth is a working journalist in Edwardsville, IL but moonlights as a published author, and her work makes for excellent readings. And I know that a lot of Nashville's blogosphere is not into cons, and I'm not even a big sci-fi person (except for my XPhiledom), but I'm really glad Nashville is getting one, because they can bring in some great tax revenue (ask the folks at Dragon*Con in Atlanta, which is enormous) and very nice folks. So if you'd like a little Memphis-spiced vampire fiction with a distinct snarky edge and strong female characters, come by and hear Elizabeth, and stay for the other stuff.
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6.15.2005
My take on the Phil Jackson/Lakers weirdness
As I posted as a comment elsewhere...
I have decided that Phil Jackson has hatched a secret plot to coach the Lakers, marry Jeannie Buss, take over ownership of the team and then trade Kobe to the Hawks. Then he'd be "rich, beootch!" and on the beach Zen mastering his own team while Kobe sweats and fumes in the Georgia humidity.
I have decided that Phil Jackson has hatched a secret plot to coach the Lakers, marry Jeannie Buss, take over ownership of the team and then trade Kobe to the Hawks. Then he'd be "rich, beootch!" and on the beach Zen mastering his own team while Kobe sweats and fumes in the Georgia humidity.
"You have to trust in something"
Steve Jobs did the commencement address at Stanford this year. Doubtless you know who he is, and if you've ever watched any of his MacWorld addresses, you already know he's a helluva speaker. But this one was particularly special, and a truly amazing retelling of many of the events that shaped where he is now.
Click here for the whole address
There's one particular passage that really struck me.
You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something - your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life.
This whole line of thinking - trust, faith, karma, etc. - has been on my mind a lot recently. In particular, someone asked me something along the lines of, "Why do you agree with parents forcing their kids to follow a religious belief that they don't believe in?" That struck home a bit, because I was raised in a fundamentalist Christian family, later became Catholic and am now Unitarian-Universalist. But honestly, I'm grateful for the upbringing I had. Because even though I never bought the whole ball of wax of my parents' religion, I learned a lot about personal faith. And to me, that faith is a very simple thing. I learned how to believe in something that I couldn't see or even explain, but just was, and that that belief and trust would somehow get me through anything that came my way. As I got older, I used that same sort of thing with other people. If you're someone whom I believe in, it's not something that you constantly have to prove or work for - I just do, and that very rarely changes. That's burned me more than a little, but it's fundamental to me, and not something I can really "fix". And while the simple faith is considered by some to not be properly thoughtful, more than naive and pretty foolish, it's also a great comfort.
And that's where another paragraph of Jobs' speech jumps out:
Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of other's opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.
I can't say that my inner voice is very loud, or that my heart is very smart in its path. But maybe it all comes down to faith and trust after all.
Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.
Indeed.
Click here for the whole address
There's one particular passage that really struck me.
You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something - your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life.
This whole line of thinking - trust, faith, karma, etc. - has been on my mind a lot recently. In particular, someone asked me something along the lines of, "Why do you agree with parents forcing their kids to follow a religious belief that they don't believe in?" That struck home a bit, because I was raised in a fundamentalist Christian family, later became Catholic and am now Unitarian-Universalist. But honestly, I'm grateful for the upbringing I had. Because even though I never bought the whole ball of wax of my parents' religion, I learned a lot about personal faith. And to me, that faith is a very simple thing. I learned how to believe in something that I couldn't see or even explain, but just was, and that that belief and trust would somehow get me through anything that came my way. As I got older, I used that same sort of thing with other people. If you're someone whom I believe in, it's not something that you constantly have to prove or work for - I just do, and that very rarely changes. That's burned me more than a little, but it's fundamental to me, and not something I can really "fix". And while the simple faith is considered by some to not be properly thoughtful, more than naive and pretty foolish, it's also a great comfort.
And that's where another paragraph of Jobs' speech jumps out:
Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of other's opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.
I can't say that my inner voice is very loud, or that my heart is very smart in its path. But maybe it all comes down to faith and trust after all.
Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.
Indeed.
6.13.2005
Yet another blog post about The Verdict
Once upon a time, on another blog elsewhere, I made a post on the day that Michael Jackson was arrested. At the time, I said that obviously I don't know what happened, but it was really hard to look at a man who admits to sleeping with children and who'd already paid off other accusers and believe that he didn't do it. I still say that, to an extent. The trial brought out even more of the Wacko Jacko stuff, and I know waaaay too much about his choice in porn. But I did learn an important lesson - that no matter how screwed up a person seems to be, there's always someone more screwed up to make them look good in comparison. And that, to me, exemplifies the Michael Jackson trial.
Was I shocked by the verdict? Yes and no. I dodn't see him being convicted on the highest molestation charges, just simply because the alleged victim and his family just didn't present convincing evidence. When you have a mother who's already proven to use her children to scam a company out of money, how can you believe that they're not doing it again? The kids' inconsistant stories, the mom's wacked-out testimony...it's hard to convict someone else when your victim and witnesses seem to be the ones on trial at times. And Debbie Rowe pretty much blew the conspiracy charges outta the water, even if I personally thought she was full of crap when she did it. The one thing I was surprised on was the lesser alcohol charges. When you have person after person taking the stand, talking about the Coke cans with wine, it's hard not to believe the "Jesus juice" testimony.
The thing that gets me about the verdict (and I guess here some would say that I'm offering some fake sort of compassion, but believe it or not, I do mean it) is that everyone's crowing about a victory here. There were no victors in this trial. If it's the worst-case scenario, a pedophile got off scot-free and was pretty much given free rein to share beds with boys and serve Jesus Juice till kingdom come, while a young boy basically lives the rest of the life with what happened to him, knowing that the justice system failed him. But that pedophile would also have to live with the knowledge of what he's done, and with the knowledge that over half of polled U.S. residents think that he's guilty. As obsessed as Michael is with his image, the knowledge that most Americans think he's guilty as sin and that he deserves that will eat him alive. And I would also say that his supply of possible future victims has dried up. Being alone with a guilty conscience is not a great place to be.
But even in the best-case scenario for Michael, this is not something he's going to recover from quickly. He's spent almost two years with the world press picking apart his life, and it was definitely a TMI situation. Now he probably faces some sort of civil action, and he's already broke. I'd say that most likely he'll be reduced to a Las Vegas casino act for a long time. But most of all, he's lost something that was very important in him - trust. He said in an interview that he didn't trust adults, but children had never let him down. And losing that kind of faith and belief in people is worse than losing all the money in the world. As for the kid, he's still a victim - of a maniulative mother, a vindictive prosecutor, and media who will forever chronicle every misstep in his life. It's hard to believe that this boy randomly decided to pipe up one day and call a person who had been so nice to him a molester. There's a lot going on behind this, and none of it is a good life lesson for a young child who's already fought for his life in the past.
In any case, the verdict is in, and after awhile another celebrity screwup will become the media's darling and the late-night punchline. But I do hope that people learn more from this trial than what weird markings are on a singer's private parts. I hope that it doesn't discourage some young kids watching this trial from afar from reporting the terrible things that have happened to them. And I hope that us adults begin to look at the prosecution of sexual exploitation charges as less of a means to be vindictive and "nail" someone in a salacious way, but as more of a way to possibly save countless others from the same fate.
http://www.protect.org/
Was I shocked by the verdict? Yes and no. I dodn't see him being convicted on the highest molestation charges, just simply because the alleged victim and his family just didn't present convincing evidence. When you have a mother who's already proven to use her children to scam a company out of money, how can you believe that they're not doing it again? The kids' inconsistant stories, the mom's wacked-out testimony...it's hard to convict someone else when your victim and witnesses seem to be the ones on trial at times. And Debbie Rowe pretty much blew the conspiracy charges outta the water, even if I personally thought she was full of crap when she did it. The one thing I was surprised on was the lesser alcohol charges. When you have person after person taking the stand, talking about the Coke cans with wine, it's hard not to believe the "Jesus juice" testimony.
The thing that gets me about the verdict (and I guess here some would say that I'm offering some fake sort of compassion, but believe it or not, I do mean it) is that everyone's crowing about a victory here. There were no victors in this trial. If it's the worst-case scenario, a pedophile got off scot-free and was pretty much given free rein to share beds with boys and serve Jesus Juice till kingdom come, while a young boy basically lives the rest of the life with what happened to him, knowing that the justice system failed him. But that pedophile would also have to live with the knowledge of what he's done, and with the knowledge that over half of polled U.S. residents think that he's guilty. As obsessed as Michael is with his image, the knowledge that most Americans think he's guilty as sin and that he deserves that will eat him alive. And I would also say that his supply of possible future victims has dried up. Being alone with a guilty conscience is not a great place to be.
But even in the best-case scenario for Michael, this is not something he's going to recover from quickly. He's spent almost two years with the world press picking apart his life, and it was definitely a TMI situation. Now he probably faces some sort of civil action, and he's already broke. I'd say that most likely he'll be reduced to a Las Vegas casino act for a long time. But most of all, he's lost something that was very important in him - trust. He said in an interview that he didn't trust adults, but children had never let him down. And losing that kind of faith and belief in people is worse than losing all the money in the world. As for the kid, he's still a victim - of a maniulative mother, a vindictive prosecutor, and media who will forever chronicle every misstep in his life. It's hard to believe that this boy randomly decided to pipe up one day and call a person who had been so nice to him a molester. There's a lot going on behind this, and none of it is a good life lesson for a young child who's already fought for his life in the past.
In any case, the verdict is in, and after awhile another celebrity screwup will become the media's darling and the late-night punchline. But I do hope that people learn more from this trial than what weird markings are on a singer's private parts. I hope that it doesn't discourage some young kids watching this trial from afar from reporting the terrible things that have happened to them. And I hope that us adults begin to look at the prosecution of sexual exploitation charges as less of a means to be vindictive and "nail" someone in a salacious way, but as more of a way to possibly save countless others from the same fate.
http://www.protect.org/
6.11.2005
I guess Aruba makes for a better live shot than Birmingham, anyway
This post perfectly illustrates what's wrong with the priorities of network and cable news these days. Don't get me wrong - I feel for Natalee Holliday's family. But just like the Runaway Bride, these stories are a dime a dozen, and it's an injustice to everyone else who gets thrown in as a VO or as two paragraphs on Page 3 to focus on the young, cute girls.
My boots are made for stomping, and they're stomping all over this video
Just had the opportunity to see the new Jessica Simpson video for "These Boots Are Made For Walking". Just about what I expected. But there are some glaring things that that I feel the need to mention (well, snark is more like it.) I know I'm nitpicking, but I also know that I'm not the targeted demographic for this video. Those who are probably won't be reading the rest of this post anyway. They're probably on their third viewing already and (edited because this is a family-friendly blog aggregated on an even more family-friendly website.)
- I grew up watching "The Dukes of Hazzard", just like pretty much every southern kid in the '80s. And the one thing that you know even if you've only watched 1-2 eps is that you don't open the doors of the General Lee. The boys always shoved themselves out of the windows. When I asked my former race-car driving daddy why, he said it was because it's a race car and they weld the doors shut (if that's wrong, please don't flame me - I actually went looking online and no fansite I could find had an answer to verify.) So what the hell is Jessica doing opening the car door in the first scene? To me, not only does that completely screw the authenticity of the movie (since I now assume everyone will open the car doors) but it ruined their chance to get another big ol' picture of her butt. Since her butt was actually the star of the video, they missed a golden opportunity there. They could've gotten a shot of the boots elsewhere.
- When did Jessica become pre-Federline Britney Spears? Never thought of her as a great singer or performer, but I at least gave her credit for wearing clothes. I know she's Daisy Duke, but dayum. And as a southern woman, I'd have to say that I've never seen any other southern women washing cars while wearing string bikinis (well, with the exception of the women advertising the naked car wash at Christie's Cabaret on 8th Avenue) especially when they're washing the car indoors. If Jessica had worn her Daisy Duke outfit for that, she not only would've been more authentic, she could've had great wet T-shirt potential for the guys. But I digress.
- Why did they feel the need to bill this song as a duet with Jessica and Willie Nelson? Because, frankly, you can't even really hear him in the song. If they hadn't used him in a couple of shots (okay, the one of him breaking a beer bottle over a guy's head was funny) and had her give him props onstage, you'd never know he was involved. It's a sad world when a legend gets upstaged by an butt.
- When you're dancing around a bar, giving guys lapdances with their beers for free, you probably shouldn't sock a guy in the head for getting fresh. Just sayin'.
- Please don't tell me this song is getting its own line dance. Scratch that. Please don't tell me that this song is going into heavy rotation on country radio and CMT.
- Did the producers of this video come up with the "washing the General Lee" idea before the Paris Hilton Carl's Jr. ad? I do prefer Jessica's car-washing skills to Paris'. I assume they cut a suggestive water-spraying shot somewhere so that they'd actually get on CMT. But in any case, if Jessica's career somehow gets shot to hell, she can always get a job at the Christie's Cabaret car wash.
In any case, it's an amusing video, but it doesn't give me a whole lotta hope for the movie. The main nice thing that I can say is that I'm forever thankful that Jessica didn't give Burt Reynolds a lapdance in it.
And in other non-Dukey news, American Idol winner Carrie Underwood is playing Fan Fair, and played the Opry last night. Not only is she about five-times a better singer than J.Simp, she keeps her clothes on. Go see her, y'all.
- I grew up watching "The Dukes of Hazzard", just like pretty much every southern kid in the '80s. And the one thing that you know even if you've only watched 1-2 eps is that you don't open the doors of the General Lee. The boys always shoved themselves out of the windows. When I asked my former race-car driving daddy why, he said it was because it's a race car and they weld the doors shut (if that's wrong, please don't flame me - I actually went looking online and no fansite I could find had an answer to verify.) So what the hell is Jessica doing opening the car door in the first scene? To me, not only does that completely screw the authenticity of the movie (since I now assume everyone will open the car doors) but it ruined their chance to get another big ol' picture of her butt. Since her butt was actually the star of the video, they missed a golden opportunity there. They could've gotten a shot of the boots elsewhere.
- When did Jessica become pre-Federline Britney Spears? Never thought of her as a great singer or performer, but I at least gave her credit for wearing clothes. I know she's Daisy Duke, but dayum. And as a southern woman, I'd have to say that I've never seen any other southern women washing cars while wearing string bikinis (well, with the exception of the women advertising the naked car wash at Christie's Cabaret on 8th Avenue) especially when they're washing the car indoors. If Jessica had worn her Daisy Duke outfit for that, she not only would've been more authentic, she could've had great wet T-shirt potential for the guys. But I digress.
- Why did they feel the need to bill this song as a duet with Jessica and Willie Nelson? Because, frankly, you can't even really hear him in the song. If they hadn't used him in a couple of shots (okay, the one of him breaking a beer bottle over a guy's head was funny) and had her give him props onstage, you'd never know he was involved. It's a sad world when a legend gets upstaged by an butt.
- When you're dancing around a bar, giving guys lapdances with their beers for free, you probably shouldn't sock a guy in the head for getting fresh. Just sayin'.
- Please don't tell me this song is getting its own line dance. Scratch that. Please don't tell me that this song is going into heavy rotation on country radio and CMT.
- Did the producers of this video come up with the "washing the General Lee" idea before the Paris Hilton Carl's Jr. ad? I do prefer Jessica's car-washing skills to Paris'. I assume they cut a suggestive water-spraying shot somewhere so that they'd actually get on CMT. But in any case, if Jessica's career somehow gets shot to hell, she can always get a job at the Christie's Cabaret car wash.
In any case, it's an amusing video, but it doesn't give me a whole lotta hope for the movie. The main nice thing that I can say is that I'm forever thankful that Jessica didn't give Burt Reynolds a lapdance in it.
And in other non-Dukey news, American Idol winner Carrie Underwood is playing Fan Fair, and played the Opry last night. Not only is she about five-times a better singer than J.Simp, she keeps her clothes on. Go see her, y'all.
6.08.2005
Seasons of Love
525,600 minutes! 525,000 journeys to plan. 525,600 minutes - how can you measure
the life of a woman or man?
In truths that she learned, or in times that he cried. In bridges he burned, or
the way that she died.
It’s time now to sing out, tho the story never ends, let's celebrate remember a year in the life of friends.
the life of a woman or man?
In truths that she learned, or in times that he cried. In bridges he burned, or
the way that she died.
It’s time now to sing out, tho the story never ends, let's celebrate remember a year in the life of friends.
Damn, a movie trailer isn't supposed to make you cry.
Trailer to "Rent"
The "Rent" Blog
6.04.2005
Such A Geek
I'm posting this entry from a $2,699 PowerBook G4 inside the brand-new Apple Store in Green Hills. This is after waiting over an hour in line to get in. Have I earned my geek cred yet?
6.03.2005
The Dead Season for TV
The other day one of my coworkers (who is known for his taste for reality shows like American Idol) said that this is one of the few times in his memory that he's watching nothing on TV. With reruns on the networks, no AI or Nashville Star to snark, and terrible summer programming choices (the poorly-executed ballroom dancing show on ABC and that abysmal-looking Ashton Kutcher show spring immediately to mind) he's just not tuning in. So I've been planning to do a post offering up some excellent alternatives for great summer viewing. Until I spent a couple of days thinking and came up with very little. But there are a couple of things that have kept me watching lately, and some things I'm looking forward to.
- A few weeks ago, I mentioned my interest in the upcoming US premiere of Green Wing on BBC America, as I had heard it was funnier than Scrubs. I have not been disappointed in the least. Tasmin Grieg was the perfect comic foil in Black Books, but she shines Dr. Caroline Todd in Green Wing, actually generating chemistry with every actor she shares screentime with. Moreover, a large ensemble cast seem to work together almost seamlessly to create an atmosphere of zaniness with heart. You can't help but care about most of the characters, and even the ones you hate (i.e. Dr. Guy Secretan, the most slimy male character ever written) are interesting enough to want to keep around. And there's neat little things, like the staff psychologist (played by my favorite guest stars on Manchild) who's a secret dominatrix, and the intern who spends his free time unraveling the frayed edges of the consultant radiologist's psyche. The character played by Sarah Alexander (formerly of Coupling) is actually the most boring of the bunch, which is pretty ironic. And I adore Dr. Martin and will gladly take him if Caroline is dumb enough to not snatch him up.
- Coming soon to America (July): Footballers Wives. Which, incidentally, preceded Desperate Housewives by several months and taught it some hype lessons as far as backstage drama goes. Also another Must-See on BBCA - The Adventures of Baron Munchausen, directed by Terry Gilliam, starring John Neville and Eric Idle and just looking deliciously farsical.
- I do watch networks other than BBCA, really. There is this little thing called the NBA Playoffs going on, which I find infinitely more interesting this year without the Lakers involved (I make sure to buck the trends.) I enjoy baseball more than I used to, although I rarely make it through a whole game. But my new sports fix is NFL Europe on the NFL Channel. Ratings for the games are supposedly skyrocketing, and I'm not surprised, because it's just entertaining. Sure, it's not big-name players or on the level of the US version, but that's almost what makes it cooler. Plus with the Titans going through their well-documented woes, you can watch Jarrett Payton (Titans draft pick last year and son of Walter) making waves with the Amsterdam Admirals and hoping for his chance with the Titans this year. If Travis Henry doesn't come to town, who knows?
- I am known for my unabashed love for cheesy sitcoms. I make no excuses, other than they're cheaper than therapy, and easier to schedule. And even if you aren't normally into them, you can always find something to like, if only for nostalgic reasons.
Ex: I was recently visited by a friend of mine, a soldier at Ft. Campbell. His tastes in TV are polar-opposite of mine - 10 minutes of The Office left him stone-cold, and I tried valiently to figure out the civilian interest value of Mail Call. But then while he was perusing my TiVo with little success (obviously, he's no Reba fan), we hit pay dirt.
Friend: Murphy Brown!
Me: You like Murphy Brown?
Friend: What's not to like? Boy, I wish this show were around now for this Bush presidency.
That launched us into a discussion of that era in politics, and why I watch Murphy Brown - because it takes me back to, dare I say, a simpler period of political life, at least for me. You honestly could reduce a debate over TV indecency to a 30-minute sitcom plot, and it was actually funny and entertaining because it wasn't such a sore subject. Nowadays politics is a whole mess of jangled nerves, but Murphy Brown existed in an era when civility still existed in D.C., extremists were still funny, and you could almost believe that press and politcos were best buddies. And if you work in the news biz nowadays, in the era of imaging and sound-bites, it's fun to see that stuff satirized way-back-when and laugh at how far it's come. And for me, an early-30-something who finds myself occasionally questioning some of my more liberal worldviews, a recent show where the anchors all realized that they've lost a little of their lefty souls with age kind of hit home.
- The Happy Hunting Grounds for cheesy sitcoms is Nick at Nite, and it's celebrating its 20th anniversary this month (damn, June must be a big month for cable.) So in celebration, they are devoting three days to the best of 1985, which was a particularly good year in sitcom history. There's Moonlighting before it sucked, the best Must-See-TV lineup of all time (Cosby Show, Cheers, and Night Court) the best Facts of Life ever (Mrs. Garrett wearing the Hawaiian shirt - even if you hated the show, you probably know the shirt), and Benson! Since Sports Night is gone, I need some Benson. So get your TiVos ready - this runs June 21st-23rd.
That's about all I'm thinking of right now. If anyone has any more Summer Doldrum programming suggestions, feel free to comment. And if anyone in the Nashville area has any of the new Dr. Who eps around (not that I advocate t0rrenting or anything, but BBCA should get that on the air across the pond yesterday) lemme know.
- A few weeks ago, I mentioned my interest in the upcoming US premiere of Green Wing on BBC America, as I had heard it was funnier than Scrubs. I have not been disappointed in the least. Tasmin Grieg was the perfect comic foil in Black Books, but she shines Dr. Caroline Todd in Green Wing, actually generating chemistry with every actor she shares screentime with. Moreover, a large ensemble cast seem to work together almost seamlessly to create an atmosphere of zaniness with heart. You can't help but care about most of the characters, and even the ones you hate (i.e. Dr. Guy Secretan, the most slimy male character ever written) are interesting enough to want to keep around. And there's neat little things, like the staff psychologist (played by my favorite guest stars on Manchild) who's a secret dominatrix, and the intern who spends his free time unraveling the frayed edges of the consultant radiologist's psyche. The character played by Sarah Alexander (formerly of Coupling) is actually the most boring of the bunch, which is pretty ironic. And I adore Dr. Martin and will gladly take him if Caroline is dumb enough to not snatch him up.
- Coming soon to America (July): Footballers Wives. Which, incidentally, preceded Desperate Housewives by several months and taught it some hype lessons as far as backstage drama goes. Also another Must-See on BBCA - The Adventures of Baron Munchausen, directed by Terry Gilliam, starring John Neville and Eric Idle and just looking deliciously farsical.
- I do watch networks other than BBCA, really. There is this little thing called the NBA Playoffs going on, which I find infinitely more interesting this year without the Lakers involved (I make sure to buck the trends.) I enjoy baseball more than I used to, although I rarely make it through a whole game. But my new sports fix is NFL Europe on the NFL Channel. Ratings for the games are supposedly skyrocketing, and I'm not surprised, because it's just entertaining. Sure, it's not big-name players or on the level of the US version, but that's almost what makes it cooler. Plus with the Titans going through their well-documented woes, you can watch Jarrett Payton (Titans draft pick last year and son of Walter) making waves with the Amsterdam Admirals and hoping for his chance with the Titans this year. If Travis Henry doesn't come to town, who knows?
- I am known for my unabashed love for cheesy sitcoms. I make no excuses, other than they're cheaper than therapy, and easier to schedule. And even if you aren't normally into them, you can always find something to like, if only for nostalgic reasons.
Ex: I was recently visited by a friend of mine, a soldier at Ft. Campbell. His tastes in TV are polar-opposite of mine - 10 minutes of The Office left him stone-cold, and I tried valiently to figure out the civilian interest value of Mail Call. But then while he was perusing my TiVo with little success (obviously, he's no Reba fan), we hit pay dirt.
Friend: Murphy Brown!
Me: You like Murphy Brown?
Friend: What's not to like? Boy, I wish this show were around now for this Bush presidency.
That launched us into a discussion of that era in politics, and why I watch Murphy Brown - because it takes me back to, dare I say, a simpler period of political life, at least for me. You honestly could reduce a debate over TV indecency to a 30-minute sitcom plot, and it was actually funny and entertaining because it wasn't such a sore subject. Nowadays politics is a whole mess of jangled nerves, but Murphy Brown existed in an era when civility still existed in D.C., extremists were still funny, and you could almost believe that press and politcos were best buddies. And if you work in the news biz nowadays, in the era of imaging and sound-bites, it's fun to see that stuff satirized way-back-when and laugh at how far it's come. And for me, an early-30-something who finds myself occasionally questioning some of my more liberal worldviews, a recent show where the anchors all realized that they've lost a little of their lefty souls with age kind of hit home.
- The Happy Hunting Grounds for cheesy sitcoms is Nick at Nite, and it's celebrating its 20th anniversary this month (damn, June must be a big month for cable.) So in celebration, they are devoting three days to the best of 1985, which was a particularly good year in sitcom history. There's Moonlighting before it sucked, the best Must-See-TV lineup of all time (Cosby Show, Cheers, and Night Court) the best Facts of Life ever (Mrs. Garrett wearing the Hawaiian shirt - even if you hated the show, you probably know the shirt), and Benson! Since Sports Night is gone, I need some Benson. So get your TiVos ready - this runs June 21st-23rd.
That's about all I'm thinking of right now. If anyone has any more Summer Doldrum programming suggestions, feel free to comment. And if anyone in the Nashville area has any of the new Dr. Who eps around (not that I advocate t0rrenting or anything, but BBCA should get that on the air across the pond yesterday) lemme know.
6.01.2005
CNN on its Silver Anniversary
Courtesy of What's Happening at CNN, a QuickTime clip of the intro to the first CNN newscast on June 1st, 1980. And for later, the first three hours of airtime, plus video tours and stuff. *sniffs, sobs a little at my desk*
I'll admit it - I'm a CNN junkie of the worst kind. It's my mom's fault. Growing up in the middle of the country, our antenna only picked up four channels - the three networks and, for some weird reason after about 1983 or so, CNN Headline News from the cable company's dish nearby. Then when we got a satellite dish, we had both Headline News and the regular channel. After Mom decided that soap operas weren't fit viewing for a child, she would leave the TV on CNN all day unless network or local news was on (I grew up idolizing Dan Miller from WSMV, pre-Pat Sajak, bunny-suit days.) So while all the other kids watched cartoons, I watched Bernard Shaw.
I never saw myself working in broadcast news. That sort of thing really wasn't seen as a viable career option for a little girl with a lisp in rural Tennessee in the mid-70s. But all the interest in news and current events got me into politics, which did eventually get me into J-school, and then a long, long, time later, into an RT program. It wasn't so long ago that I was the one running a camera in the River Region campus newscast, and getting a thrill because I was there. And no matter how jaded or hardened I become, this is still a really cool place to be.
CNN's changed a lot over the time I've watched. This morning they were asking people to write in with the story that affected them the most, and I can't even put a finger on just one, because CNN was so much a part of everything. If there was a crystalizing moment, it was the night that the U.S. planes started bombing Baghdad during the first Gulf War and my mom changed the channel and I heard the three reporters hiding out in their hotel room, trying to tell the story and not get caught by the Iraqi authorities. That was the story that made me want to be there (yes, I'm nuts.) But then there's been elections and impeachments, earthquakes and hurricanes, huge fires and small babies and famines and fury galore. I saw the video of the Twin Towers fall and the Pentagon smoking with my mouth agape. And through anchors and reporters that came and went, I always felt the CNN connection in Atlanta (and yes, I've visited almost every time I've gone there) and that's always made it more like home.
I can't say that I'm entirely happy with the way that CNN is now. But I'm so glad to see how it's evolved from the husband-wife team with bad hair to the polished product that it is now. It's revolutionized the industry, and it changed the course of my life. And for that, I give thanks.
I'll admit it - I'm a CNN junkie of the worst kind. It's my mom's fault. Growing up in the middle of the country, our antenna only picked up four channels - the three networks and, for some weird reason after about 1983 or so, CNN Headline News from the cable company's dish nearby. Then when we got a satellite dish, we had both Headline News and the regular channel. After Mom decided that soap operas weren't fit viewing for a child, she would leave the TV on CNN all day unless network or local news was on (I grew up idolizing Dan Miller from WSMV, pre-Pat Sajak, bunny-suit days.) So while all the other kids watched cartoons, I watched Bernard Shaw.
I never saw myself working in broadcast news. That sort of thing really wasn't seen as a viable career option for a little girl with a lisp in rural Tennessee in the mid-70s. But all the interest in news and current events got me into politics, which did eventually get me into J-school, and then a long, long, time later, into an RT program. It wasn't so long ago that I was the one running a camera in the River Region campus newscast, and getting a thrill because I was there. And no matter how jaded or hardened I become, this is still a really cool place to be.
CNN's changed a lot over the time I've watched. This morning they were asking people to write in with the story that affected them the most, and I can't even put a finger on just one, because CNN was so much a part of everything. If there was a crystalizing moment, it was the night that the U.S. planes started bombing Baghdad during the first Gulf War and my mom changed the channel and I heard the three reporters hiding out in their hotel room, trying to tell the story and not get caught by the Iraqi authorities. That was the story that made me want to be there (yes, I'm nuts.) But then there's been elections and impeachments, earthquakes and hurricanes, huge fires and small babies and famines and fury galore. I saw the video of the Twin Towers fall and the Pentagon smoking with my mouth agape. And through anchors and reporters that came and went, I always felt the CNN connection in Atlanta (and yes, I've visited almost every time I've gone there) and that's always made it more like home.
I can't say that I'm entirely happy with the way that CNN is now. But I'm so glad to see how it's evolved from the husband-wife team with bad hair to the polished product that it is now. It's revolutionized the industry, and it changed the course of my life. And for that, I give thanks.
5.28.2005
Damn you, CNN!
When news junkies have spent three days watching a guy hanging out on top of a construction crane blocks from your studios, we do not want to see a Breaking News crawl when he finally comes down. We want to see him come down live, dammit! We don't want to watch a rerun of Aaron Brown. He was boring the first time around!
Of course, I am the only person in America sitting at home, drinking rum and watching this guy hanging out on his little white crane on Peachtree. So you probably shouldn't listen to me anyway.
Grudging love (but just for Anderson Cooper, who I always adore),
Dana
Of course, I am the only person in America sitting at home, drinking rum and watching this guy hanging out on his little white crane on Peachtree. So you probably shouldn't listen to me anyway.
Grudging love (but just for Anderson Cooper, who I always adore),
Dana
5.25.2005
You'll never walk...aw hell...
Well, maybe 2005 is just going to be a good year the teams I follow. Or maybe if the Titans are hurting, all of my out-of-town teams decide to overachieve or something. But I'm so happy for Liverpool, who pulled out a thrilling win over AC Milan today. If anyone saw this coming at the half, they would have to be lying. But they did it, and their long-suffering fans deserve this. Congrats.
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