JMC262

MTV

2009-12-18T14:03:00.001-06:00

The show “Teen Mom” on MTV follows a few teen moms. You see how hard it to be a teen mom, but at the same time this show is showing teens that if you get pregnant you can always just get on a show. The US has a growing number of teen pregnancies and shows like this do not help the statics go down. Once I turned the show, it was hard to turn the channel. The editing makes each scene flow into another. This show type is typical on MTV. They try to bring reality into every home but by doing that they are in a way making important issues not seem so important. Shows like “My Super Sweet 16” shows the world how stuck up so American teens are. Shows like the “Real World” on the other hand show how editing can create an event out of one saying. I do not know what on TV is considered real anymore.

Fantastic Mr. Anderson!

2009-12-18T10:35:00.002-06:00

Wes Anderson has made his genius ever-apparent once again in his latest move Fantastic Mr. Fox!. The movie is, of course, based off the classic Rohl Dahl book of the same name. I personally have never read the book, though it seems that most school aged children have become familiar with it at one time or another, but it made no difference to me when viewing Anderson's eye-catching new piece of cinematic art.

Anderson uses his distinct style of animation, that we previously only catch a glimmer of in his previous films (The Life Aquatic, etc.), to create a full length feature that is both witty and mesmerizing. George Clooney is a great fit as Mr. Fox (as is Merril Streep for Mrs. Fox), and who would not love Bill Murray as a badger? The anthropomorphism of the characters is so strong, one almost forgets they are supposed to be animals. The soundtrack sets the tone -- and is perfectly in sync with the animation -- with original composition, indie music, and, yes, a little bit of the Beach Boys. Even though the plot is about coming to terms with one's true nature, I couldn't help but think the film itself was a beautiful exercise in escapism.

It seems to have been the season of fantasy and whimsy with one "fantastical" film after another. Fox echoes the idea of an other-worldliness that could also be seen recently in Where the Wild Things Are. Both are based on best-selling children's books, are retold by renowned indie directors, and both provide a visual feast for the eyes while touching on deeper psychological themes. Although this move may be more child-friendly than WTWTA, it still has many aspects that seem tailor made for adults to enjoy. And enjoy it I did!

Goths Vs Emo

2009-12-18T00:15:00.000-06:00

Recently in class we discussed and article called Lessons From Littleton. This article goes into the perception of teenagers in schools and how some schools were banning certain types of "looks." In one incident, the article tells of a teenagers who wore the Star of David and one teacher mistook it as a gang symbol.

Another topic the author, Jenkins, touched on was Goths. Goths appear in dark clothing, crazy colored hair, and many piercing and tattoos. Most goths also wear dark make up such as thick eyeliner, black lipstick, and dark eyeshadows. Goths do this to separate themselves from the social norms that surround them. They feel different, so they want to portray their differences through their looks.

Incidentally a friend of mine recently asked me what the difference was between emos and goths. Interestingly enough, I kind of had an answer. I took a class last semester called Media and Popular Culture. In this class we watched a video called Goths Vs Emos: Differences. The video was produced by a goth to show people what the differences were between the goth lifestyle and the emo lifestyle. One prominant messages was, "Goth is a lifestyle, emo is a trend." I found it every interesting that these individuals spend so much time separating themselves from the social norms when some spend so much time conforming to them.

Brangelina

2009-12-17T23:04:00.001-06:00

Surfing Perezhilton, I came across the headline, “Brad and Angie trying for baby #7?” For those of you who don’t know Brad and Angie have a lot of kids. At this point I don’t know how many they have anymore, I’d guess six after reading this headline. A lot of people think they adopt and have all of these kids to be an even larger part of the media than they already are. Some articles about Brad and Angie have been dealing with where they chose to take their children in one reading people were worried about the safety of their kids in the countries Angie was bringing them to. For Brad and Angie it’s always about going above and beyond what other couples do.

Recently though there have also been rumors that the couple’s relationship is not at its greatest point, but they always look so happy with all of their kids. An insider said, “"Angelina decided about four months ago that she really wanted to try to get pregnant again. She basically told Brad that if it happens, it happens and that she wasn't going to concern herself with birth control. Angie's most at peace when a baby is coming." I guess if they have another kid maybe they can fix the bumps in the road, seems to me this is what they’re implying.

The Battle to Leagalize it!

2009-12-17T22:06:00.002-06:00

The leaglization of marijana has been an on going public debate for years now. Visiting friends in San Francisco, California has brought to my attention the large difference in leniency between Wisconsin and California in regards to marijuana. I met people out there that have green cards, allowing them to purchase medical marijuana whenever they want, whatever amount. They simply go to the website, browse the online "catalog" of the different kinds of marijuana available, choose their amount and order it! They then, within the hour, deliver your order, even right to your dorm! Coming back to Wisconsin, is another story.
This past Tuesday December 15th, Wisconsin lawmakers sat down to disucss the pros and cons of legalizing marijuana. The bill would allow patients that qualify to be able to recieve the drug from compassion centers or grow it on their own. The bill was denied. Despite its inital rejection, they were said to have decided to give it another month of debate before their final decision is made.
I am in no way claiming to be a "pot head" or smoke marijuana, etc; however, I do condone and support the idea of leagilizing it in Wisconsin. If other states have, and there was not a large increase of abuse or anything due to the use of the drug, there seems to be no real reason to oppose the idea.

'Avatar' already selling out for this weekend

2009-12-17T21:39:00.003-06:00

The movie Avatar, due to be released in theaters tomorrow, is already being sold out nationwide.

Directed by James Cameron (Terminator, Titanic, Aliens, Rambo), Avatar is a 3D sci-fi fantasy movie about a paraplegic who travels to the world of Pandora, a land inhabited by "Na'vi" humanoids to take the place of his fallen brother in battle.

The film had an enormous $300 million budget and has received mixed reviews thus far. Some have the said the dialogue is clunky, but famous critic Roger Ebert went in to the showing not sure what to expect, but came out thrilled with Cameron's work.

Cameron had pledged to take 3D to the next level, whatever that may be, and the movie seems to be generating a ton of buzz. Will it be as successful as his previous movies? Time will tell, but if you don't already have a ticket for this weekend, you might be waiting awhile to see it.

R.I.P. Chris Henry

2009-12-17T18:55:00.006-06:00

NFL wide receiver Chris Henry passed away today, due to injuries he sustained in a car accident on Wednesday. His story marks one of the biggest tragedies and saddest stories that I’ve heard in a while. It's not just the untimely nature and unfortunate situation that resulted in his premature death, but the circumstances surrounding his troubled life. A few years ago, Henry was one of the top receivers in the NFL, in addition to being one of its biggest troublemakers. For many, he was a symbol of everything that was wrong with the struggling Cincinnati Bengals. At the time, the club was notorious for all the wrong reasons. Numerous players had been arrested for serious crimes. Henry himself had been arrested several times for such offenses as criminal damaging, driving under the influence, and marijuana possession. He was released by the team in April 2008, at which time owner Mike Brown explained that he had “forfeited his opportunity to pursue a career with the Bengals, and that his conduct could no longer be tolerated.” In the following months Henry turned his life around. With the help of former NFL wide receiver Michael Irvin, who was no stranger to legal troubles in his playing days, Henry found a way to get his life back on track. With the Bengals injury list piling up, and their poor performance continuing last year, Brown took a chance and re-signed the reformed Henry to the team. It worked out and Henry managed to be productive on the field once more, this time while keeping his personal life in check. Unfortunately, right when he found the road to redemption, Henry’s life was snuffed out.

Tiger Woods vs everyday men

2009-12-16T13:11:00.002-06:00

It seems that Tiger Woods and his affair make the major news stories of the day. My main issue with Tiger's affair is that he affair is causing more waves than an affair between a normal run of the mill man and women. I feel that there are more newsworthy stories than an affair. Another thing with the Wood's drama is the fact that the media won't let it go. It seems that almost every other day a new women comes forward saying that they were with Woods. Why can't these women stay in the shadow? I don't know about most people but I am tired of hearing about affairs on the news when there are other events happening in the world that affect more people than an affair involving the mayor, police chief and "celebrity". I now will not click or watch a certain news show if they start off with breaking news about another affair.

Sing-Off: The New Vampire?

2009-12-15T14:08:00.002-06:00

Watching the latest performance based music talent show, I thought how much they are exploiting the already popular American Idol, America’s Got Talent and Glee. That is how the show is advertised but then I began to see how what is popular usually is what is profitable. Let’s see who else has done this… Vampire Diaries, Tru Blood, Twilight? As popular as vampires have become, good old fashioned talent with musical influence seems to resonate with many fans. There is something about music that draws us in, kind of like how the undead allure of a vampire makes the teens fall over themselves. If Sing Off does well, how many more shows like it will emerge?

Based on the vampire trend, we should be prepared. Not to say that the show has no draw for me, I am a sucker for great singers and vampires, I grew up watching Star Search and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. But it would be lovely if the shows kept to talent, I always feel terrible watching auditions that are not only painful to watch but just downright embarrassing to witness. The best group so far (opinion of course) on Sing-Off is Nota, a Puerto Rican group, that makes the show worth watching.

We Cause Scenes!

2009-12-14T21:12:00.002-06:00

Improv Everywhere is something everyone needs to be familiar with! It is a performance group that carries out skits and pranks with group members and volunteers who are called “uncover agents.” The group’s tagline is “We Cause Scenes,” and their mission is to create scenes of public joy and chaos. Usually the improvisations occur in big cities like New York and L.A., where they attempt to bring joy and a bit of randomness to the dullness and monotony of city life. All pranks are done in good fun with simply the intent of putting a smile on people’s faces.

The group has performed countless “missions” but some more well known pranks include Frozen in Grand Central and I Love Lunch! The Musical. In Frozen in Grand Central, for example, tons of volunteers all stop and freeze at exactly the same time in Grand Central Station. They remain frozen in mid-action for 5 minutes as bystanders become confused, entertained, and sometimes irritated. After time has passes, all frozen people come to life and nonchalantly go back to their business as if nothing happened.

Beware! Once you start watching the videos, you will become addicted!

The skits are usually recorded and the group has videos on their website and youtube, a book explaining improvisations, and dvds for sale.

Homeless to "Blind side" (NFL Left Tackle)

2009-12-14T11:32:00.003-06:00

Michael Oher, 74, recently known as Baltimore Ravens rookie left tackle. Or as others might know him as, the inspiration of the new movie Blind Side. He was an African-American homeless, overweight highschooler, who was taken in by a wealthy, white family, the Touhys who helped provide Oher with his full potential and become now, an NFL first draft pick left tackle.

The movie is named after his position in football. The left tackle is also known as the blind side. The left tackle position is on the offensive line. (Basically blocking for the quaterback). He is a young 23 year old who didn't have it so easy at such a young age. Since being taken into the Touhy family, he had to opportunity to play a sport he loved, and attend college at Mississippi. What a great example of someone following their dream while being very underprivileged. As the left tackle position, you may not create a profile full of statistics, but it is a crucial position and as a rookie he as even strived to the starting spot.

Two weeks ago, Monday, Oher and the Ravens played the Packers at Lambeau field. Before the game there was a tribute of the recent movie out about the Blind Side's inspiration. As a football fan, I find it as an incredible story and incredibly heartening. I watched the Packers, cheered for Aaron Rodgers, but also watched and cheered for the 'famous' number 74. Even watching the game, gave me goosebumps to know he once had absolutely nothing in his life and now he is living his dream.

Of course since the recent release of the movie, many intereviews with Oher and his adoptive family have been proposed and taken place. However, in some interviews I have read, Oher simply wants to talk about football, not the book or the movie. He doesn't care about the fame from the movie, he cares about his job playing left tackle for the Ravens. He didn't strive get this far and become egotistical. If anything he knows what is like to have nothing and now he is just doing what makes him happy.

Life without TV

2009-12-13T20:11:00.002-06:00

one of my first blogs for this class was when I first started living without television. My roomates and I are poor, and dont have enough money to buy one of those boxes to get even standard cable. Me being a pretty devoted television viewer, I thought that I would go crazy. It's been about five months now that my roommates and I have been without television, and surprisingly we are doing just fine. I have found that I generally miss tv when there is a packer or badger game on or the news. We have found that normally on a daily living basis, to do something together in the house, would normally involve us watching a tv show or a movie on the tv. now we sit around and talk about anything, my roomate knits, one plays the drums, and i have taken up the harmonica. I have come to value the conversations between my roomates and I more now, because I know that if we had a TV we would not be learning and exploring and enjoying each others company as much as we do without tv. However, we have all found a way to access shows that we love whether it be on network television websites, or through renting seasons on netflix. If I have learned anything from this experience it would be that television is a luxury, not a necessity. I would recommend to anyone going without a television for a certain amount of time, it brings back the person to person conversation that people in this day and age are lacking.

"Growing pains for Wikipedia"

2009-12-11T11:33:00.002-06:00

I never thought about editing or submitting entries to Wikipedia. It sounds so scholarly to be able to contribute to an encyclopedia - doesn't it? Well, I found this article from 2005 (kind of old) and it explains why Wales had to monitor submissions and change the rules.

Hackers are infamous for 'hacking' into entries and changing information, as discussed in lecture. Wales had to put a stop to it when someone tried changing information about the Kennedy assassination. I think that steps like this should be taken to build credibility to Wikipedia.

I often use Wikipedia to gain an understanding and background of my topic. I am never allowed to count it as a scholarly source,but most of the time it is more relevant and "beefier" information than scholarly sites. I think that I would love to edit and contribute to Wikipedia. I would love to have passion for a subject that I cared about how accurate the information is.

In fact, once I graduate I would like to be a user and begin my Wikipedia-ness. I want to become someone who can say they helped write entries for an encyclopedia.

Chad Ochocinco no more?

2009-12-11T11:29:00.002-06:00

This will be the third time I've wrote about Chad Ochocinco this semester because he just can't manage to stay out of the media spotlight. Lets recap...Chad Ochocino is a wide receive in the NFL for the Cincinnati Bengals. Chad legally changed his name this past season from Chad Johnson. He decided to go with Ochocinco because his jersey number for the team is 85. There was talk about him legally changing his first name to Esteban to go with his Spanish last name, but those rumors ended. Now, according to sources, Ochocinco is thinking about changing his last name yet again. This time to Chad Hachi Go which is Japanese for 85. A Japanese film crew was in town doing a piece on the Cincinnati Bengals because Chad is very popular over there. His Japanese fans suggested he make the change to Hachi Go.

Chad Ochocinco's reality show life is getting out of hand, but people continue to cover his life. The only reason I'm still talking about him is because its gotten so ridiculous that you just have to laugh. I was a huge fan of the original Chad Johnson when he was just a great football player. It's too bad his celebrity status got to his head and created what we see today.

Snowball Fight!!!

2009-12-11T10:01:00.004-06:00

These pictures illustrate a snowball fight that took place on the Madison UW campus just a couple of days ago on December 9. The makings for this massive snowball fight originated over Facebook and then transformed into a reality that involved over 3,000 students. The fight went on for approximately forty minutes and some students were even armed with shields and water balloon launchers, and luckily, cameras!

I think this is an amazing example of the power of online networking groups. The idea for the fight began just two days prior and the message was followed and executed by thousands of people! I actually found this article posted on Facebook. It cheered me up in this bitter cold to see proof of why winter is actually fun. I personally can think of no better way to break up final exams than by hurling balls of snow at thousands of fellow students! If only I had known....

All I want for Christmas is Rage?

2009-12-11T01:49:00.005-06:00

We won't be seeing any new Christmas anthems at the top of the charts this year, at least not if Jon Morter has anything to do with it.

In an effort to destroy Simon Cowell's "music machine", Morter has launched an all out Facebook attack on the X-Factor. X-Factor is a television show that originated in the U.K. as a replacement for Pop Idol. Think of it of the U.S. version of American Idol. The winner of this show, The X-Factor, has had the number one Christmas song in the U.K. the last 5 years, and Morter is sick of it.

So what does he plan to do about it?

Morter fashioned a Facebook group encouraging everyone to download the song, "Killing in the Name" by Rage Against the Machine on the same day in order to boost sales and shoot this song to the top of the list in order to destroy any chance that the X-Factor will have of retaining its crown at the top for the sixth year in a row.

The facebook group as of now contains a little more than 550,000 members. The song is predicted to com ein second place on Christman day, right behind the X-Factor, however come Christmas day we will see if this muscial uprising stands strong.

Simon Cowell's retort calls this facebook movemnet both "stupid" and "cynical" says NME.com.

I guess we will just have to wait and see when the results are in. Will Christmas music prevail or will Rage truly topple the machine?

Frosty the Inappropriate Snowman

2009-12-09T15:05:00.004-06:00

Recently CBS ran a series of ads comprised of clips of the iconic holiday classic Frosty the Snowman mashed-up with the voices of two of the networks biggest current stars.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_mhXpVejt8
As you can see from the video, the dialogue coming out of Frosty's mouth is nothing like that of the original movie, but much more reflective of the characters personality's that Charlie Sheen and Neil Patrick Harris play on Two and a Half Men and How I Met Your Mother respectively. Not surprisingly many people found it very offensive to hear Frosty talking about his porn collection and suggesting that he and his friends visit a strip club later. I have mixed feelings about this. First off, I do find it pretty funny. My stance on censorship is generally the less of it the better, so naturally my reaction was that if people don't want to see this kind of content or let their kids be exposed to it then shut off the television. After ruminating on it a bit though I have regressed from this stance a bit. This is after all a Christmas and cartoon classic that has been corrupted in the ads' own words, in an "inappropriate"way. Children watching that won't understand the context and will miss the purity of Frosty the Snowman that I enjoyed as a child. I do find that kind of unfair for them. Another noteworthy aspect is that the lines Frosty spoke were all genuine pieces of dialogue from the actual shows. They didn't contain anything new or push the obscenity than other CBS shows clearly already do. I think in the end, people are just mad and turned off by seeing something as pure as Frosty the Snowman and the holiday special shock them like that. Notice that at the end of the ads CBS insists that "Some holiday classics are better left untouched." Maybe they should have taken their own advice.

Super MASH Bros.

2009-12-08T15:43:00.000-06:00

http://www.lazerwolf.com/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EtLSEq08lHQ&feature=related

As we learned in class, remix culture is a term named by Lawrence Lessig, a copyright activist. Remix culture is known for its encouragement of derivative works from works that are all ready copyrighted. One of the most popular industries today is the music industry, where each individual song has an automatic copyright to whichever artist sings it first. The music industry hugely partakes in the current remix culture. For example, hip-hop music practices remix culture more commonly with their lyrics and referral to other songs, etc.

After learning about remix culture and the fundamentals and history of copyright, I started to be more aware of examples of it in my life. A friend who attends school in Portland, and happened to meet and become friends with the group of guys who created it, introduced super Mash Bros. to me. Ultimately what Super Mash Bros. is, is the exact definition of remix culture. They take a group of songs that may be different genres, have different tempos and beats, and combines them to create one, ultimate track. All of their tracks are up beat and “hype”. When you listen to them it is crazy to see how two songs you never would have pictured being played together can, when combined, create something completely different and unique. It is these people that we need in the world to present to everyone a new vision, which can then lead to many other things. It was just a small group of guys who randomly decided to do this and create something new from something old.

I attached above a link to their website. They have come out with two albums, both free to download. They can also be found on youtube; I attached a link to that as well to view a track of theirs. To me, when I think of remix culture now, I think of Super Mash Bros. They are the perfect example of how people can take what is all ready made, and make a new derivative, unique work.

"Become a Fan of Farmville"

2009-12-07T09:30:00.002-06:00

Farmville, one of the many applications on Facebook that people are just loving right now. It is a game where you can farm virtually with your friends; planting, growing, and harvesting crops. It is an application of Facebook that enhances one of the many social networking events. Since the launch of this game, this last Summer. It has become the most popular game played on Facebook. The game seems to reflect the real world of farming, where the products and crops are all based on a market and for sale. When you buy and grow your crops you are then able to make a profit, which is the ultimate goal. Of course using fake, Farmville cash. It isn't just that simple, in order to succeed to fullest, you will need to plow your own crops, plant trees, can purchase animals to fulfill your farm.

I am not a Farmville player, or a Farmville "Fan", but I have heard many of friends discuss their farm and the competition. For some it becomes an addiction, they need to check their farm on a daily basis to check on their crops or plant more or "water' them. In addition to that, they are checking their neighbors farms' to ensure that they aren't making as much of a profit. It is a competition and an obsession.

Recently, I looked at the Farmville page on Facebook and their new product is a Holiday Tree, where you can send gifts to friends and the gift will appear under their Holiday Tree. The virtual world is becoming a new reality.

2009-12-05T09:24:00.002-06:00

Portraying racial identities in the media, I believe, creates stereotypes and assumptions for the country. This Mad TV skit, is humorous, I will admit, but it also creates a negative racial identity for Arab people. To begin with, in the first 10 seconds of the skit, they say 'death to America' twice. This is only the beginning, the phrase is found almost after every other sentence in the whole skit. This easily coveys that ALL MUSLIMS and ALL ARABS want death to America, installing fear and hate for these nationalities from the American viewers who aren't Muslims and Arabs. The host, who plays a Bob Barker type character, as the basis of the show is obviously a joke on Price is Right as well, is blinded by a laser light. The guy in the studio, who announces the prizes (I don't know his name, and honestly, does anyone else?) explains that is his pilot pen, designed to blind pilots. Now, these leads to the assumption and stereotype that Muslims and Arabs in general are terrorists and have interest in, obviously, re-living the terrorist attacks of 9/11, which honestly isn't too funny to me, and probably not funny to a lot of other people, especially in New York. The Bob Barker character goes on the explain to the American tourist contestants that women cannot win prizes (as there is a Muslim woman, whos is of course encombesed in clothes besides her eyes) unless, 'of course you mean the anestia before your clitor-ectomy. Granted, I know woman may be opressed in the Muslim culture, it isn't exactly funny that Mad TV is making fun of it, nor do I bet Muslim woman in American appriciate it. These are the types of racial identites that create negative stereotypes and images for American media consumers. Sure, it is Mad TV and it is a joke, but it really does reinforce thoughts some Americans have, and could possibly install new ideas in their heads.

Buffy vs Edward

2009-12-04T11:25:00.004-06:00

This is a mash up of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Edward from Twilight. I think that the editing in this video is excellent. I never watched Buffy but I saw Twilight once to see what all the fuss was about. My favorite part of the video is when both characters are in the woods and then they bust into a church window. At the very end of the video the creator gives credit to the Buffy seasons 1-7 and the video Twilight. This video has been viewed more than one million times since its upload. I wonder if it will ever get pulled down for copy right infringement. I hope not because it is a very well put together mash up.">

Tiger Woods

2009-12-04T10:59:00.002-06:00

I'm sure most of you have heard about this by now, but Tiger Woods was involved in an accident this past weekend. When the story first broke, they said that Woods was taken to the hospital in serious condition, but quickly changed to stable condition with facial lacerations. The accident happened around 2:30 in the morning, but still know one is sure exactly what happened. Woods was in front of his home and struck a tree as well as a fire hydrant. Originally investigators thought that alcohol might have been involved, but that was not the case. After looking into it further police, found out that the back window of the car was smashed in with a golf club by his wife. She explained that she was trying to get Woods out of the car, and couldn't get in any other way. Many rumors have been spread about the accident, some true and some false. However they know now that Tiger Woods was having an affair with his wife, and that's what they believe caused the dispute. Since it's Tiger Woods, one of the most famous athletes in the world, we haven't heard the end of this story.

Mashups

2009-12-04T09:39:00.001-06:00

After class I was very interested in the recreation of classic and fairly new movies. I found one on Google Videos that includes the Star Wars (which I have yet to see), Harry Potter and Lord of the Ring.

I have seen Lord of the Ring and parts of Harry Potter. What I found interesting in this mash up is how they played on each other movie stories. All three of the movies that I have mentiioned, have always been similar to me. All three of them have long movies, they have similar character themes and plotlines.

I think this is very funny. Harry Potter gets confused with Gandolf and the characters from the opposite movies fight about who stole ideas from who. Then before Dark Vader comes into the scene while two of the older men are 'sword' fighting as in Star Wars.

This entices me to want to watch Star Wars and Harry Potter. I guess it is a strategic way to have the audience engage in media text - even mash ups.

Worst Hire in the History of Jobs

2009-12-04T09:07:00.004-06:00

Earlier in the semester we talked briefly about what qualifies someone as an expert and makes them a credible source to talk publicly about a certain topic. As some of you probably know, I am a slightly obsessive Detroit/Michigan sports fan, so you can imagine the feelings that bubble up every time I turn on a football game on ESPN, whether it be college or NFL, and I see Matt Millen's ugly mug looking back at me. For those of you who don't know Millen was the President and CEO of the Detroit Lions from 2000-2008 during which time he oversaw the worst eight year record (31-97) in NFL history since WWII. During his time with the Lions he was responsible for some of the most horrendous draft picks known to mankind (most of them high first round picks who are no longer even in the NFL) as well as the first 0-16 season in NFL history. Now I admit I'm a little biased, but I still can't fathom how a network such as ESPN and NBC, during last years Super bowl, could look at this mans record and decide that he's the right person to speak knowledgeably on a topic he has proven he knows nothing about. The only people in the TV business who seemed to recognize this were the fine folks at the NBC Detroit affiliate who every time Millen appeared on the screen during the Super Bowl broadcast scrolled the following warning label across the bottom of the screen, "Matt Millen was president of the Lions for the worst eight-year run in the history of the NFL. Knowing his history with the team, is there a credibility issue as he now serves as an analyst for NBC Sports?" It seems to be a question that the network executives should have been asking but for some reason never did. So I end by saying thank you to ESPN for ruining every football game that Millen is part of the broadcast team for. In the interest of keeping my TV in one piece I find myself forced to either change the channel or, at the very least, mute the commentary of the worst hire in the history of jobs.

twilight reaction by fan

2009-12-04T00:26:00.002-06:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFG9lXc2upQ

All that talk about star wars fans got me thinking about the biggest fan base of our generation. It is a close call between Harry Potter fans, but after watching this video, I believe that Twilight fans take the cake. I found this video a bit creepy, the girl takes us into her room and tapes herself watching the twilight trailer. At one point I believe she hyperventilates, and has to stop viewing the trailer which is only 2 minutes and 43 seconds long. She views the trailer two times during the duration of this video. She talks about the differences she can see between the book and the movie, and about how she loves everything about the the trailer. It is as if she were conducting a textual analysis of her own. I started to get a bit creeped out when she started swearing at the characters and saying "I want to be in your world". Where does fandom draw the line between liking and obsessing?

ps. I read that when twilight came out she went and saw it four times in a row.

Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

2009-12-03T23:51:00.003-06:00

Two words... Victoria's Secret, What a great and smart way for Victoria's Secret to put their product out there and brand it in a original and unique way. This show is every mans fantasy and every girls aspired image, these models are just unbelievably gorgeous! match that up with the sexiest lingerie and you get the Victoria's Secret brand. This airs every year, around Christmas time (coincidence? i think not) on CBS and gives the audience a look at the latest bras and lingerie on stage and also a look behind the scenes. I really think this is a great and extremely smart way to brand their product. They are not using a basic commercial instead it created a whole show that is all about their product which grabs people's attention the most without making them feel like they are just watching a commercial, instead they are just watching a really exciting show. I love watching this show every year, i usually get together with a few friends and we watch it together and discuss the different outfits, as Victoria's Secret, what more can you ask for? They are getting their brand across and also getting people to talk about it after all isn't that the whole point?

Grocery Wars

2009-12-03T23:36:00.002-06:00

This video is pretty much the most outrageuous organic food commercial I have ever seen. However, since we discussed Star Wars, and Star Wars parodies in class this past week, I felt Grocey Wars was an appropriate thing to blog about.

This video is filled with tons on puns. Puns on names, and puns on the movie plot itself. The Force is now the "Farm." The main role is "Cuke" Skywalker played by a cucumber, Obi-wan-Canoli, Darth Tater, and Ham Solo to name a few. It seems very cheesy I know, but it was very clever.

The good side of the force was all organic foods, which led the organic rebellion. The dark side, was food filled with chemicals and pesticides. In this video Darth Tater was "more chemical than vegetable," playing on the fact that in the actual Star Wars movie, Darth Vader was more machine than human. I suppose to some people this is a better way to warn them about healthy or unsafe foods, rather than right some crazy PSA, especially most Star Wars fans. The stereotyped Star Wars fab weighs somewhere in the are of 300+ pounds. (joking of course.) Maybe after Grocery Wars we'll see some slimmer mor jedi worthy Star Wars fans out there.

Star Wars Kid

2009-12-03T22:33:00.000-06:00

As we discussed in class about Star Wars and watched the clips from YouTube, I remembered in a different class we watched “Star Wars Kid.” The first time one of my teachers played it, I thought it was the strangest thing; it was also really funny. So many people have viewed Star Wars Kid on YouTube and I guess I never really understood it. After viewing the videos in class that were people’s own versions of Star Wars and other things mixed together it reminded me of Star Wars Kid. The whole time the guy is playing with what he pretends to be a lightsaber. It seems he is acting out Star Wars, but in a different way then the ways we saw in class. But again this is his own version and it’s rather different.

I have never been into Star Wars, so much of the trailers online I don’t quite understand, but Star Wars Kid is one I do understand because I know in Star Wars they use lightsabers and the whole video clip this guy is pretending to have one. Apparently this was taped over a basketball game, and students used it as a joke by sharing it on YouTube, or that’s what I read at least. Apparently a bunch of lawsuits and what not went into it, but it was the most popular video at one point. As I read the comments on YouTube just now many of them say this clip ruined his life and that he is no longer alive..it’s YouTube so anyone can post what they want, so I’m not really sure if this is true or not. I found it to be really disturbing after reading those comments though knowing that people still are watching it and making fun of this kid who didn’t even think the video would get out. I think it takes a lot for someone to post something like this on YouTube, but he got quite the audience viewing his clip. Here's the video if you haven't ever seen it. Does anyone actually know what happened to Star Wars Kid?

The Tiger Woods Saga

2009-12-03T11:57:00.003-06:00

As I'm sure everyone on the planet already knows, the world's top professional golfer and advertising icon Tiger Woods was involved in a one-car accident outside of his home the day after Thanksgiving. The media has been having an absolute field day with this story ever since. I find it disturbing just how much coverage this thing is getting. My personal opinion on it by now can be summed up in the following two words, WHO CARES? I can't imagine myself devoting another second of time thinking about this event, and I'm a golf fan. It seems to me like the media has taken its typical over the top approach and styled a relatively minor incident as an epic Greek tragedy. Seriously, this is what we've come to? Just because someone is famous does not give you the right to maliciously speculate about their personal life. Some have even called for him to give a public apology. What Tiger Woods was doing to get involved in this minor accident has no bearing on anyone's life except that of him and his family. As a future member of the media, I worry about being involved in an industry where blowing erroneous things out of proportion is considered not just acceptable but necessary. I'm not a fan of Tiger's, actually I don't really like him at all. I have no respect for his childish behavior on the course i.e. cursing, throwing clubs, because he's the only pro golfer who does these things, let alone is allowed to get away with them without any commentator even attempting to detract from him. That being said, I still find the media's treatment of this whole situation utterly disgusting.

A New Way to Email: Google Wave

2009-12-02T13:21:00.000-06:00

A couple close friends of mine started buzzing on Facebook about a new email program by Google. Its called Google Wave and is about to hit the online community very soon. Email was a communication media created over 40 years ago. What Google wants to do is re-create email and its functions. So Google asks, "What would email look like if it were created today?" So here we have it, email for the new age...Google Wave.

Google Wave, as I understand it, is communication tool that allows users to join a conversation, playback information in the order it was created, edit the information, and upload photos, text, and video to said conversation. This is all done in order to keep conversation clean and simple. Since Google Wave is in it's preview stage, this connections are still a little rocky and problems are still in the works for getting fixed. Also, Google Wave is by invite only. If you don't have an invitation from someone who currently has it, you cannot use it until the official launch.

The creation of Google Wave fits in perfectly with some of the material we are working on in class. The idea that creativity plays on the past is key. It all began with the Internet, which led to one to one communications via email. Google Wave is breaking the mold of the personal one to one email. Yes, you can still have a conversation with one person, but you may also have an interactive, playback conversation with multiple people at the same time. Since I am still a little hazy on the details, and in the process of understanding Google Wave, here is a YouTube video that explains Google Wave in very simple terms:

Happy Holidays -- From My Fetus to Yours!

2009-12-01T21:20:00.003-06:00

There exists a place where one can get a 3D sonogram of their unborn child and have it made into Christmas cards all at a convenient one-stop shop within the cozy confines of a shopping mall. There are almost no words. What would this fetal X-Mas card say? Images of fetuses hanging from garlands and card trees alongside that nice little snow covered cottage card that Grandma sent come to mind.

What is this place where someone could obtain such a thing? Why, The Belly Factory, of course! I was introduced to their website just this morning in an especially informative Health and Media lecture. The Belly Factory appears to be the ultimate in consumerism by marketing to women their own fetuses. The store, located in a mall in Illinois, offers everything from expensive baby classes and pricey exclusive products to teddy bears that play a recording of your unborn child's heartbeat. This may sound like heaven on earth for some expectant moms to be, but to me it just sounds over the top (to say the least).

The Belly Factory offers a variety of picture packages as well, encouraging expectant moms to return multiple times throughout their pregnancy by offering a 10% discount on future purchases with each package. One can get a preview of the 3D and 4D images offered by visiting the ultrasound gallery. I cannot imagine anyone visiting this site and immediately wanting to order X-Mas cards of these images -- no matter how excited about their new addition they may be! These especially detailed sonograms look more like ectoplasmic visions from a sci-fi movie than visions of sugar plums or sleigh bells in the snow. To each their own... and to all a good night!

Twilight to TV?

2009-12-01T13:42:00.002-06:00

Ok, I get that teenage girls (and not so teenage girls...including my 27-year-old sister) think this vampire character, Robert Pattinson is a good lookin fellow. The Twilight books have been a smash hit for a while now, basically becoming a Harry Potter-style replacement as the books appeal to roughly the same crowd, except carry more emotion.

The movies were so successful they garnered spinoff shows like True Blood and the Vampire Diaries. Do I get the obsession with the mysterious blood sucking type? No, but whatever. To each their own.

But then I came across this. Basically, Twilight might become a TV show, highlighted by Pattinson being the main character. Talk about milking a cow until it's dry. I'm sure females under the age of 35 will tune in for a while, but would it really survive, especially at the price of hiring the Brit to $1.5 million per episode. Call me crazy, but that sounds like a failure waiting to happen.

Vampire Intervention for Twilight fans

2009-12-01T13:17:00.003-06:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8GGp_bpsng

From the books to the big screen, Twilight has surely made a large impact on the media lately with its recent release of the second film, New Moon, and the developing romance between the characters both on screen and off. I will first admit that yes, I am a fan - I have read the books and have seen both films. With that being said, I do to a certain extent understand why people like them; however after seeing this video posted to youtube, you all most have to laugh at the absurdity of these fans.

This film was created by a small group of a few guys who find Twilight and the whole fascination with vampires to be completely ridiculous. They stage an “exclusive pre viewing” of the sequel New Moon to a select few, prior to the actual premiere. The video shows all the overly enthusiastic fans waiting to be let in. When Mike comes to the stage to begin the vampire intervention most think it is a joke, and continue to cheer in anticipation. When he finally gets the point across to them that they are not actually seeing New Moon there are mixed emotions from the crowd, some offended, some laugh, and some just leave probably still in confusion. He makes it a point to show their stupidity when pointing out that they came to a magic theater to view a movie.

I personally found this video hilarious, however part of me does feel for the people because all though everyone may not love Twilight or understand the appeal, to some it actually is a passion. Over all this video and “intervention” is a mockery to those passionate fans of Twilight, but at the end of the day you just about have to laugh because it was in fact a successful prank.

Guitar Center Wish List

2009-12-01T02:14:00.002-06:00

Previous to Black Friday, I was searching for Guitar Center's extended holiday hours. I really should know, after all I do work there, however Guitar Center often waits a while before they finally let their employees in on some things, such as extended hours. While searching for this, I came across this press release from a hip hop related website. It discussed Guitar Center's new application to create a wish list in the form of a concert poster to let friends and family know that you want all this cool gear from Guitar Center. Now, I am an employee of Guitar Center, but I am also a strategic communication major, and I cannot say that I am as impressed about this application as I should be. It is a super creative idea. It connects to media outlets on Facebook and Twitter, enabling shoppers to share their wishes to other Facebook and Twitter members. It obviously got attention, because I found this press release on a website other than Guitar Center's. However, I know first hand that this application is not half as useful as the corporation hopes it would be. I can gaurentee much time, thought, and creative effort went into it, and it will not pay off as big as hoped. My grandma and the grandma of a twelve year old boy is going to walk into Guitar Center and say to me 'I need a black guitar for my grandson, looking to spend under 400 dollars'. He probably told her he wanetd a black guitar. Maybe she saw a picture. However, a poster jumbled with extra graphics and the own kids face probably is just going to confuse any grandma unless the child prints it out himself and makes damn sure that she hands it to an employee stating exactly what he wants. Luckily, especially around the holiday time, Guitar Center has a generous return policy. Customer service is number one at this store, I have seen things I never thought would happen just to please customers at this establishment. As cool as this idea may have sounded, and as rocker and appealing to the muscians this may seem, my grandma, and your's probably too, is better off with a simple check list that says 'American Fender Strat'.

Dear Jack

2009-11-30T17:46:00.004-06:00

These days it seems like many celebrities are trying to cash in on different forms of media. Actors who start off in movies try their hands at releasing CDs and singers attempt to act on the big screen or in TV shows. This trend has worked for a select few. Thinking back, it is hard to remember, for example, if Jennifer Lopez started out as a singer or an actress, regardless of whether you like her music or movies. This trend has continued with the younger generation of stars, including Miley Cyrus, who seems to be just about everywhere these days.

One thing that I find very interesting and commendable is the way Jack's Mannequin singer Andrew McMahon has integrated himself into both forms of media. Rather than acting, he has released a documentary titled Dear Jack about his struggle with leukemia. It integrates music, film, and touching life experiences in one.

The documentary follows him as he writes and records music while battling leukemia in his personal life. The film has been shown in select theaters across the country and is also available for purchase on iTunes. Turning his experience with leukemia and the beginning of his music career with Jack's Mannequin into a documentary is a unique way for an already established artist to integrate different media into one, while at the same time showcasing a personal and heartfelt work.

Lackluster On Star

2009-11-30T12:58:00.000-06:00

In the wake of Tiger Woods’ accident there are many speculations as to what happened, why it occurred and what will happen next. People wonder what caused the incident but all I could think of was how unlike his advertisement the entire event was.

A while back Tiger was in an ad which showed how helpful On Star could be in a crisis. He was locked out of his car and was about to take a golf club to the window when he finds that On Star is able to unlock his car without all the mess. Fast forward to now when he is trapped in his car after hitting a tree and hydrant, what is the solution for getting someone out of their car? Having one’s wife smash out the windows with his gold club.

Not to say that the event will promote the strength of the golf club but it does show the commitment of his model wife’s determination and handiness with a driver. And where was the trusty On Star during the debacle? Despite airbags deploying and traveling speeds over 30 mph, the company that is supposed to be there for you was less than helpful in Tiger’s incident. So despite all of the ads Buick uses to promote On Star, I think that I have a lack of faith in the product since they were not so quick with their response in Tiger’s time of need.

The Mixtape Weezy

2009-11-30T12:56:00.003-06:00

The mixtape king is back at it again. Lil’ Wayne has dominated music charts and influenced pop culture more than any artist over the past 5 years. His deep raspy and raunchy voice combined with his wit and extensive vocabulary within his lyrics has propelled him into a Grammy award winning rap star. There is no subject off topic for the peculiar rapper with songs varying from politics to sex. The New Orleans native has become a house hold name. His fans are extremely diverse from old to young from white to black. Although, his fans might differ in appearance they all have one thing in common; they adore and praise his talent. Just like his hero Jay-Z Wayne also chooses not to write any of his lyrics down on paper but instead recites all off the top of his head. Besides selling millions upon millions of records Lil’ Wayne likes to occasionally distribute free music. Yes, I said “FREE MUSIC”. He has been doing this for quite sometime now and I must say some of the music he puts out for free is better than what is on his actual album. His latest mixtape is another classic titled, No Ceilings. If you want a copy just let me know. It’s FREE anyway and if you like rap and any of the current hip-hop songs on the radio than you will like this mixtape because Wayne kills the beat.

Woodson Giving Back

2009-11-27T11:44:00.002-06:00

Charles Woodson, defensive back for the Green Bay Packers, is having one of the best seasons of his career this year. However, he wants to be known for something other than football when he retires. He did this by donating $2-million to the new University of Michigan Mott Children's Hospital and Women's Hospital. The announcement came right before the Packers played the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving, where Woodson had 2 interceptions, a forced fumble, and a sack. Woodson's donation will go towards pediatric research for the new hospital that is scheduled to open in 2012. Very little of the national budget goes towards this fund, so the donation will be very helpful. It's good to see that there are still celebrities out there that still care about someone other than themselves.

chelsea lately

2009-11-27T10:52:00.002-06:00

Even though I love watching this show because of the improvised jokes, it's just unbelievable to try and avoid the many racial and stereotypical topics she brings up on the air. There was one episode where she had Lamar Odom and Kloe Kardashian to she show, who got married after one month of dating, and she kept pointing out how people say "when you go black you never go back" and she jokingly said "when you go black you go running back!" there are many more comments like and also about gay people that just got me thinking how no one is saying anything about it? I mean do African American people and gays think its funny? I guess that all makes good TV because last season was the highest season she had ever gotten. It's just like we read in our Media Society book, the media just portrays the norm to be white middle class American and everything else is just a comparison! I think it's sad that after all these years people still view this sensitive topic like that!

Straight Cash Homey

2009-11-27T09:37:00.002-06:00

The post about the Wal-Mart shopper website reminded me of one of my brother’s favorite websites, Straight Cash Homey. This website is completely devoted to random jersey sightings. Users post pictures they have taken of people wearing funny/out-of-date sports jersey’s with funny captions. It has become my brother’s dream to one day get on this sight wearing his Detroit Lions Jason Hanson jersey. This website is definitely good for some laughs while you walk down memory lane seeing jersey’s of players you forgot played for particular teams or even played at all. It never ceases to amaze me how many people have time to devote to websites like this. One of my favorite parts of the website is the origin of the name. It comes from a great Randy Moss interview. When asked how he paid his bills and other expenses, after claiming he had never written a check in his life, Moss replied “straight cash, homey.”

Christian Side Hug

2009-11-26T16:38:00.003-06:00

A friend from my high school posted the weirdest link, article and video I have ever seeen, on Facebook. I often go through the link section on Facebook because my friends usually have interesting things they find on Youtube, and I can even see what music my friends are into currently, and perhaps find my new favorite band. This is the link that my friend posetd. It is an article discussing the 'Christian Side Hug' and a actual hip-hop video about the Christian side hug. This side hug is to prevent any frontal touching, which this article makes seem like some sort of sin. Although everybody had their own beliefs, I personally believe this is quite hilarious, weird, but believable. The rap group is what really got me. To choose to talk about a Christian side hug through gangster hip-hop style music is like Disney producing the movie SAW. It makes NO SENSE. However, I bet that the creators and the group thought with the power and popularity of hip hop today, this would be a great way to spread the message about a side hug. I cannot imagine kids who like hip hop digging this. Isn't hip hop about the lyrics, raps and stories being told? I don't think the music genre is as much about the beats as it is about the lyrics. In my Race and Ethnicity JMC course we are currently studying the hip hop images. Many articles discuss how hip hop carries a tough urban image because that is the persona that the genre feels they need to potray to survive and not show weakness. Ultimatley this tells me hip hop is about not being vunerable, taking risks, and living life on the edge, tough and fearless. However, that is not what a side hug is about. Maybe kids like this sort of video. Maybe the side hug is a good thing. Maybe hugs are too sexual. Either way, I believe this shows how popular and powerful people see hip hop as, to make a rap video about a side hug.

:::Adam Lambert Steams Things Up:::

2009-11-26T09:48:00.005-06:00

Adam Lambert's performance at last week's American Music Awards has stirred up quite the talk throughout the media and public. For those of you like me who have no idea who this guy is, he is yet another American Idol superstar. His performance of his hit single "For Your Entertainment" caused quite the controversy with his wild and "risque" dance routine. After simulating oral sex with one of the dancers onstage he then kissed a male keyboard player. Deja vu? Brittney Spears and Madonna shared their own bit of a little public tongue action at the Video Music Awards. Though the "lipstick lesbian act" as it has been referred to, did receive its share of public criticism, it was not removed from public television. Lambert's kiss was blurred out by CBS. I think this is discriminatory against the fact that Lambert is a gay male. Why should two infamous female pop singers share a moment of heat for the world to see, yet a man who does the same is viewed and inappropriate and unsuitable for public television? I'm not arguing one way or the other as to whether or not either one should have been aired, but the decision should be made with some consistency.

*Unfortunately, the videos have been removed from youtube.

"Black Friday"

2009-11-25T11:34:00.003-06:00

As hard as it is to believe...Thanksgiving is all ready here. Personally, my family has a tradition of going up north for the week, getting away, and truly taking in the holiday spirit. Many other families traditions I have come to see include "Black Friday," the infamous day after thanksgiving when all major department stores have massive sales. My family and I have never taken part in this; which got me to thinking... why not? My usual stress on Thanksgiving was in regards to the food baby I would have, but this year, it is in regards to if I am properly prepared for the spending...the crowds...and the determined shoppers.

This is the first year when my mom, my aunt, and I are all preparing to go to the malls to join in with the crowds. Personally, I am not a fan of shopping; I could avoid a mall or major department store for years if I could. It is just funny to me to think of how crazy people go; waking up at 5 am to be there right as the store opens, front of the line, pined against the door. As hesitant as I am, I will be among the many crazed shoppers on Friday, wish me luck!

Wysteria Lane

2009-11-20T11:56:00.001-06:00

I survived my first Sunday in three months without my favorite television show MadMen, which had its season finale two weeks ago. Fortunately there was an entertaining football game on NBC, concluding with a triumphant victory of the Indianapolis Colts over the New England Patriots.

Sunday’s the only day that I really watch TV, so I got back into watching ABC’s Desperate Housewives, a tongue in cheek, and wink of the eye look at suburban life on the fictional Wysteria Lane. MadMen it is not, but it makes up for quality with humor. It has one thing in common with MadMen, and that’s the popping up of an occasional Black actor, generally in the roll of a domestic at worse or some other service role at best. At least MadMen has an excuse – if you will – its time period. In a recent role, a Black character plays a motel maid who advises one of the shows characters, Bree, on the harm that her extramarital affair will cause. Wise? Maybe, but a domestic role nonetheless.

Oprah Winfrey says goodbye

2009-11-20T11:51:00.003-06:00

After much consideration and prayer, Winfrey told fans today that her show would end in 2011. It’s been nearly a quarter-century since Oprah Winfrey’s debut. She is known for touching the hearts of her viewers, spectacular giveaways and a book club. She has an incredible fan base and is viewed by many as the queen of talk shows.

Winfrey didn’t go into detail about her decision but assured fans that she truly thought things through. She told fans that she loves the “Oprah Winfrey Show,” but knew when it was time to say goodbye.

“Twenty-five years feels right in my bones and feels right in my spirit," She said

As a journalism student, Winfrey’s decision is bitter sweet to me. I can remember watching Winfrey, always inspired by her energy, ever since I was a little girl. I understand that at 55, it is time for her to make decisions about her future and her career, but I pray that her plan includes an active role in network television.

Winfrey has always been a talk show favorite, but it was reported that in the last year her ratings slipped 7 percent. Maybe Winfrey’s decision is a wise one and that old saying is true.

It’s better to bow out gracefully on your own terms than to wait for your fans to tell you when you’re done.

Winfrey said she was excited for upcoming shows and promised that her final season would knock our socks off.

Best of luck to the talk show diva!

Letters to Santa

2009-11-20T11:20:00.002-06:00

I didn't even know that there was a designated place in Alaska that you could actually send letters to Santa. I was in the fitness center this morning when I heard about Santa reading letters in Alaska.

I would have loved to send my letters to an actual address, but I guess the letter business needs some saving. "The group is looking to counter a decision by the U.S. Postal Service to end a program begun in 1954 in the small town of North Pole, where volunteers respond to thousands of letters addressed to "Santa Claus, North Pole" each year," statement from Associated Press (AK volunteers strive to save Santa letter service).
Why would the postal service want to end the program when that helps the sales for a US government operated service. I heard that the US Postal Service is being hit hard by the economy!

State of the Game

2009-11-20T11:13:00.003-06:00

A friend of mine recently purchsed the new Call of Duty game, Modern Warfare 2. If you're not familiar with the series, it's pretty much top of the line in simulating the most intense war voence imaginable. I doubt he's stopped playing it since I last saw him. The impressive visual qualities and amazing details that have made their way into this gam really got me thinking. The progress of video games in my lifetime, specifically in recent years, has startled me to say the least. I used to be a pretty avid gamer back when I was in middle school. It's fair to say they were a pretty big part of my life back then. Not long after, I fell out of them completely though, and I haven't really looked back. Until recentl,y when I've gotten a glimpse of just how far they've come, since I've stopped playing. It's remarkable if you think abot it. We've come from Pong in 1972, to games like Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 in only 37 years. The graphics and features of games today would of hardly been imaginable just a few decades ago. it really makes me wonder just how far they will go. The market certainly isn't going anywhere, so I don't thinkthe progress is either. What will games be like near the end of my lifetime? I can only imagine.

Oprah Calls it Quits

2009-11-20T11:06:00.003-06:00

It is apparently the hottest news right now. Oprah Winfrey announced that she will be ending her show in 2011 after 25 years on air. Her show has become a multibillion dollar powerhouse since it first aired in 1986. Oprah plans to be done after finishing 25 seasons. And she always said that she would end the show when people wanted more, not when people were getting sick of it.

In Oprah's 24th season, it was opened with a HUGE performance. There were more than 20,000 people collected Chicago's Magnificent Mile for a block party. The Black Eyed Peas sang their song, I Gotta Feeling, changing the lyrics to correspond with the Oprah and the the crowd choreographed a dance to surprise Oprah. If you didn't see it, it was absolutely incredible. Actually when I watched it I got goosebumps. I think this performance in itself proves that her audience wants more.

She said her 25th and final season will "knock your socks off". She plans to make her last season a season everyone will remember.

Oprah's media power is unreal. Forbes recently scored her net worth at 2.7 billion dollars. She has Harpo studios, the Oprah magazine and her most well known talk show. She is perfect example of big media, and for her to end her show will be a big loss in terms of media and audience.

Oprah to end talk show

2009-11-20T10:31:00.004-06:00

The massively successful Oprah Winfrey Show will come to an end on September 9th, 2011, according to a Winfrey spokesperson.

Winfrey is expected to give the announcement during today's live show.

2011 will mark the 25th year of Oprah's show, and she just feels it is her time to stop.

Oprah's show has been the number 1 ranked talk show for 23 consecutive seasons, an incredible number. Her show has set off the careers of Dr. Phil, Dr. Oz, and Suze Orman, and has been an important hub for the support of many big causes.

It will be interesting to see what show takes over Oprah's reigns as the top rated talk show. Middle-aged women everywhere will be scrambling to find a new show to watch. Perhaps Ellen DeGeneres' show will take over daytime talk.

One wonders if her big book club will continue, as she uses her show to highlight certain books that she reads for her club. One should also wonder what guests to her final show will receive as gifts. If you remember, she gave a car to every member in the audience several years back, and has made guest gift-giving an important part of the show.

Mr. Rogers

2009-11-20T10:03:00.003-06:00

Ever since we watched Blue's Clues in class, I kept thinking about all the TV shows I wacthed when I was younger. Of course there were shows like Rugrats, Angry Beavers, and Out of the Box. Disney and Nickelodeon were always on in my house. There was one show though that I watched almost everyday that was on PBS. That show was Mr. Rogers.

I recently was flipping through the channels during the afternoon and Mr. Rogers was on. I haven't seen this show since I was younger so I watched a bit of it to remind myself what it was all about.

Watching the show now was obviously a completely different experience than when I was 4 or 5. First of all, I was bored out of my mind. The show was so slow moving and Mr. Rogers said the same thing over and over and over again verrry slooowly. Secondly, Mr. Rogers can NOT sing; he is a terrible off-tune singer. I really don't know why he sings in every show. And thirdly, the puppet characters are really creepy looking. In fact, they're pretty scary. I'm surprised I wasn't afraid of them as a child.

Overall, the show is really different than children's shows that get produced now. It's a mystery to me what could have been appealing about the show to me as a child.

Oh, Etsy!

2009-11-20T08:32:00.003-06:00

One of my new favorite obsessions is browsing the seemingly endless creative and handcrafted objects on etsy.com. This website offers mostly handmade objects from soaps, clothing, and art to $500 goat head puppets (what else could one possibly need in life?), as well as anything else a person could conceivably dream up.

The site is meticulously organized and ever-changing, as anyone with an account can sell their handmade (and sometimes vintage) items on etsy -- kind of like a DIY EBay, but more adorable. This site is proof of the proliferation of the DIY movement and is an important contribution to today's marketplace. At a time of increasing consciousness of the ethics of fair trade, this innovative website can find itself right at home. Many of the items offered are fair-trade made, vegan, and/or organic, etc. The site is also a great opportunity for even the smallest entrepreneurs and artists to make their products available to a world-wide audience.

Browsing and buying from the site also offers a great alternative to the run-of-the-mill holiday shopping to which everyone has grown so accustomed. Etsy offers items for men, women, children, and pets of any age and truly has something for everyone. I will be ordering many a gift there myself this holiday season (including handmade Guinness soap from Appleton, WI!). Whether you want to buy from local artist, acquire one-of-a-kind items, or just have a curiosity for the unusual, I highly encourage a trip to the etsy website. Be careful -- it might be difficult to steer away!

Know your autotune

2009-11-20T00:42:00.003-06:00

In one of my other JMC classes, we're doing a study on viral media and what makes them so insanely popular. One of the presentations was on a series of YouTube posts entitled "Autotune the News."

For those of you who don't know what Autotuning is, it's basically what makes T-Pain sound like T-Pain. Apparently it was created by an oil miner in attempts to find underwater reserves for Exxon Mobile. Eventually it fell into the hands of the internet and exploded from there.

No, I didn't do a ton of research on this topic to find this all out. I just watched the Know Your Meme episode about autotuning.

For those who don't know what Know Your Meme is, it's a group of people who study, analyze and breakdown internet memes, crazy fads that become viral for bizarre reasons.

If you're wondering what the hell is up with that girl who just stares into the camera, the numa numa guy, or balloon boy, they tackle all these topics in an attempt to better understand how and why the stories came about and why we, as a culture, took time out of our lives to pay attention.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, Opiate For The Masses

2009-11-19T23:26:00.003-06:00

So it is finally here, what gamers have been waiting for, since the release of the previous Call of Duty 4: Moder Warfare. Since the announcement of the making of the new Modern Warfare 2, gamers all over the world have been shaking with anticipation, and the opening day launch of Modern Warfare 2 shows it.

In the first five days of Modern Warfare 2 being released the, most anticipated game of the decade, grossed $550 million. In the first 24 hours of being released, it had the most successful launch of all time. The game sold 4.7 million copies in the first 24 hours grossing $3.7 million. This is the most successful opening day for any piece of entertaining equipment. No other video game, record, or movie comes even close to this blockbuster sales.

Before Modern Warfare 2, the most successful release date was "The Dark Knight" which raked in $155 million at the box office during its opening weekend world wide. This does not even hold a candle to this behemoth of a video game. The most amazing thing is however, that numbers that have been relased for Modern Warfare so far, only accounts for the U.S. and U.K. The numbers from the rest of the globe have not even been accounted for yet.

With the numbers still trickling in from the rest of the world, it is hard to imagine the further success of this video game we will see in the next few weeks. What does this say about the world? As a whole we have blown over half a billion dollars for a game that promotes war, bloodshed, killing, every terrible and unjust thing one can think of, and the whole world cannot get enough of it. Let's hope the world keeps their grip on reality. In the world's delicate state that it is in, I don't think it could handle a gamer uprising.

New Moon

2009-11-19T22:25:00.004-06:00

In Los Angeles this past week, the movie New Moon premiered. People were camping outside for days just to get a glimpse of their favorite Twilight and New Moon stars. My roommate who I lived with in LA this summer called me to inform me people were lining the streets and were all the way up to our apartment and around the block which is just 2 blocks from the theater where the premier was and I couldn't believe it, I didn't even know what it was for, and neither did she and she lives right there! When she found out it was for New Moon, I was not surprised and neither was she, because Twilight was and is such a hot commodity these days. I have never seen Twilight nor do I really plan to, but I am curious as to what all the hype is about. Is it just simply that Robert Pattinson is very good looking or is the movie actually good?

Tonight at midnight is when the movie actually comes out and I have never seen such craze over it. Theaters are also showing Twilight before the midnight showing of New Moon and many people are attending one after the other to get the full effect. I have seen a billion Facebook statuses that legitimately say "I can't focus too excited" "New Moon New Moon." I mean to me it's just crazy. As I watched the trailer I really had no clue what was going on, and have no interest in it, but it seems like it's going to be a big hit for the box offices this weekend. Here is the trailer if you have not yet seen it !

Thank you Brandon Jennings!

2009-11-17T22:08:00.003-06:00

The picture above is 20 year old, Milwaukee Bucks rookie Brandon Jennings. He sure indeed is young and money when it comes to making plays on the basketball court. If you haven't heard this rookie stud is making quite the name for himself this year in the NBA. He was selected 10th overall in this years NBA draft by our home team the Milwaukee Bucks. Brandon is what you would call a trailblazer because when he graduated from high school in 2008 he took a less then traveled path by skipping college to play professionally in Europe. Brandon is a unique draft pick that spent the previous year playing professional basketball in Spain. The reason why is because he was not able to pass the entrance exam to Arizona University and he didn't meet the 19 year old age requirement to enter the NBA draft.

So far the rookie sensation is averaging a team and rookie leading 25.5 points per game. Not only is he scoring the basketball efficiently, he also is averaging 5.5 assists per game. Another benefit to his great play is that he is shooting a blistering 53% from 3 point range which is ironic because scouts said he couldn't shoot. The highlight of the season so far is the 55 points he scored on November 14th against the Golden State Warriors. He didn't even score in the first quarter and he scored 29 points in the third quarter alone. The incredible performance set the Bucks rookie record for most points in a game by surpassing the legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

I guess you could say he is a savior to the our lackluster Milwaukee Bucks franchise and we must thank the basketball Gods for such a talented point guard and I want to thank Brandon Jennings himself for making me a Bucks fan again!

Become a "Stumbler!"

2009-11-17T17:16:00.000-06:00

Have you stumbled lately? That is a question I am starting to hear more often with my friends. Sharing their stories about all the random facts they learn through the website: www.stumbleupon.com. This website will have you occupied for hours, trust me! This is a site where you are asked some of your basic interests and then…you start stumbling! It allows its users to discover and then rate the web pages, photos, and videos they stumble across. It takes you to the most random of places on the Internet; from youtube, to MSNBC, to personalized websites, etc. It truly does enhance your interest in the Internet and all the crazy things put on. I can honestly say that I have read some funny things through stumble and seen some hilarious youtube videos. But rather than being all comedy, it can also have you stumble across rather interesting news pieces, different projects, and handy things to know on a day to day basis. It really is a good past time.

What People say.

2009-11-17T13:47:00.002-06:00

As a story in the news breaks it seems that some people want to be on camera to tell people their thoughts. On Sunday November 15, 2009 a young boy’s body was found in a van in the Wal-Mart parking lot in Germantown. The next day the story broke and news vans were swarming around the Wal-Mart. One lady was quoted saying, "I was totally surprised that it was Germantown," said Linda Wentworth, a customer at the Walmart. "Then, when I saw it was our Walmart, I was amazed it happened here." (link) I feel that this lady had a good intent by saying she was surprised it happened by I feel her choice of words was not thoughtful. First referring to the Wal-Mart as “our Wal-Mart” was in a way calling it hers. Also, how can you be amazed it happened there? In my opinion amazed means something wonderful and beautiful not used in telling about someone’s death. When people are quoted saying things like this it makes me wonder if people who are quoted on the news are sometimes just after a chance to be on television. A video of the most up to date story as of 2:00pm November 17,2009 here.

Noah's Christmas Wish

2009-11-14T12:30:00.003-06:00

I will admit it, I love Facebook. I know there are many arguments against it, I know I spend more hours than I shouldn't on it, and I know it can be really creepy. However, I love it, and I love getting invited to events. Earlier this week I logged on and had an two event invites. One was for some Christian event/cause that I wouldn't attend, so I immediately disregarded it and the second was 'Noah's Christmas Wish' something that I assumed asked for money so I disregarded that one as well. However, I look at my feed and 36 of my friends are attending this event. I re-look over the event, and felt horribly guilty for even not reading the content of this event. Noah is a 5 year old boy who has had Neuroblastoma Cancer for 2 and a half years. Make a Wish seems to have gathered this event to make his one wish come true: to receive many Christmas cards. I never cry, I hate crying, I am a notorious hard ass. I was ready to ball after I read this. At five years old, his wish is Christmas cards. As if I didn't get chills when I read his cancer story, I was seriously touched by his humbleness. I know at 5 years old I would have asked my mom to buy Disney World. He asks for Christmas cards. His family is celebrating Christmas early, as they are unsure if he will be able to make it to Christmas Day. I want to cry now. His mom set up a care page for him, so read about him there. The family has received many cards, and has actually requested no more. Understandably, it is time to focus on Noah's health, after receiving an abundance of Christmas wishes. It's amazing that an event on Facebook turned out to grant a little boys wish and turn into something so powerful and touching.

Droid vs iphone

2009-11-13T12:12:00.001-06:00

Over the years we have gone from large ridiculous looking cell phones that you could only make calls with(how lame was that) to small compact cell phones that let you pretty much do whatever you want. To me this is quite scary and to wonder what the future has in store for the cell phones almost seems unbelievable. What made me start thinking about this was the new Droid phone from Verizon and their campaign strategies targeted against the iphone. The new Droid phone has a lot of characteristics that the iphone has but in their commercial they point out the differences that make it “better.” My friend recently got the new Droid and although it might not be as sleek as an iphone the capabilities of this phone are insane. Although I do not have either of these phones I felt like I could relate to the Droid commercial since I have had the “privilege” to own an ipod (first gen.) I know the first ever ipod is a lot different than the new iphone but the people selling it are all the same. My experience with Macintosh was a bad one and with a brand snapping back in a very casual way puts a smile on my face. However, since I can’t really afford either all I can say to you guys are to research the Droid before coming committed to the iphone, it is rather fancy.

The iphone did however make a commercial reflecting their feelings on the Droid phone.

The League of Extraordinary Fantasy Gentleman

2009-11-13T11:16:00.000-06:00

First off, let me just say that I have been a big fan of the television network FX over the past few years. With a recent track record of great shows like Nip/Tuck, Rescue Me, Sons of Anarchy, and it’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, I’m willing to give any new program that they feature a chance. That being said, I had mixed feelings when I started seeing previews for their newest show The League. I quickly gathered that it was a show that featured four guys and their obsession with Fantasy Football. I had a few reactions to this. First I wondered how they could take a premise that seems so thin and stretch it into a half-hour comedy series. I mean seriously, how many jokes can you make that follow the same basic archetype of “these are four typical modern males, who love football, beer, and themselves more than anything else in their lives?” Oh and “their wives can NEVER understand.” Second, it struck me that we’ve reached a point in television where you can make a show that revolves around pretty much anything. I watched the show and though it was actually pretty funny. I also came to one more conclusion. I always thought that caring about celebrities, tabloids, and all the drama that certain parts of the media force down your throat if you let them was a completely pathetic and pointless venture. I found myself comparing it to playing fantasy football and wondering is there anything different with that?

Doomsday

2009-11-13T11:09:00.002-06:00

Last night the movie 2012 hit the theaters. This movie is supposed to be one of the biggest hits of the year. I am quite anxious to see this movie. For those of you who don't know what it is, although I am sure you do, it is the movie about how the world is going to end in the year 2012 based on the Mayan calendar, the calendar simply stops in the year 2012. Apparently the Mayans have been correct with all of their predictions so 2012 is something some are taking seriously while others think it’s bogus. Do you think this movie will scare people into believing that 2012 really is going to be the time when the world ends? Watch the trailer here…

I have seen the trailer for the movie and it looks pretty intense, I'm not really sure what to make of it. The movie cost was over 200 million dollars to make, which is obviously a lot of money, but based on the trailer there are a ton of special effects and what not that play a large role in the movie. I wonder what other people think of this film or what people really believe will happen in 2012.

UFC Fighter Chad Ochocinco?

2009-11-13T11:01:00.002-06:00

I talked about NFL wide receiver Chad Ochocinco and his reality show life earlier in the semester. Evidently he wasn't getting enough attention and was bored with just playing football, so now there's talks of him fighting in a UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) fight. Ochocinco spent his Wednesday tweeting to current UFC president, Dana White, stating he wants to fight UFC's current middleweight champion, Anderson Silva. Here is the conversation between the two on Twitter:

Chad OchoCinco's tweets:

Dana this Ocho Cinco, I want to fight your #1 and #2 best fighters asap,exhibition to raise money for a charity of choice!!!!!!

matter of fact I want Anderson Spider Silva---please don't ignore me or you'll have to fight me yourself!!! Sincerely Esteban :)

Mr. White this a serious matter, we can help alot organazations with this fight, I have a good chance at winning against Silva

Awesome! I'm fighting Anderson Silva-I can't wait to throw my child please combo with a kiss da baby leg kick, Silva can shut the front door!

Dana White's tweets:

Perfect @OGOchoCinco. I need a Jan 2nd fight. Ocho Cinco vs Anderson Spider Silva. PS - I'm too old to fight anyone.

If you are really serious @OGOchoCinco, contact me. We'll put a fight together for charity.

@OGOchoCinco Follow me so I can send you my email

So it's not enough for Chad Ochocinco that he's having one of his best seasons in the NFL, he needs to prove himself in the ring as well. If the fight does happen, it's unlikely that Ochocinco will fight Anderson Silva because they would be in different weight classes. However, the media loves Ochocinco and really anything is possible with him.

Miss Teen USA contestant to commercial star

2009-11-13T10:58:00.004-06:00

If you have not seen the video clip of Miss Teen USA: South Carolina's answer to the question: why can't most American's locate the US on a map. I did not see it live, but my boyfriend did show me the video on youtube on Tuesday after he spotted her on a commercial selling pistachios.

This commercial shows us that she is laughing with America. She pokes fun at herself by doing this commercial. Before she eats the pistachio she says that eating them will help Americans obtain maps and build a better future. These words were used during her Miss Teen USA answer that did not land! I appreciate her sense of humor and still think it's crazy that we have access to watch people's mistakes over and over again using venues like YouTube. It becomes hard to escape your mistakes, but Miss South Carolina finds a way to make it better.

Jimmy Kimbel did a skit to try to understand what she was trying to say. I didn't watch any of this until this Tuesday, so I think it is funny still.

Here is the Miss SC answering the question that made her famous!

Facebook: powerful alibi machine?

2009-11-13T10:47:00.002-06:00

I got a nice kick out of this story about a teenager who used his Facebook status as an alibi in a mugging accusation against him.

Rodney Bradford updated his status around noon last month, just before a mugging occurred a few miles away. Bradford, who had already been accused of robbery in 2008, turned himself in to police, confident that his status update would be the perfect alibi.

A man actually picked Bradford out of a lineup and he was convicted of the robbery. But, Bradford's dad saw his son's Facebook status message and quickly realized it could be used as an alibi.

This is pretty sensational, in my opinion, that Facebook could be used as a an alibi in such a situation. I found it pretty funny that Facebook officials said they were "pleased they were "able to serve as a constructive part of the judicial process."

Bradford is also going to sue the city for damages from being arrested wrongfully and put in Rikes for nearly 2 weeks.

It's interesting to think that just a few years ago this kid may have been convicted of the mugging because there was no Facebook, no Internet, nothing to trace where he was. Oh, how times have changed.

Inside the NBA

2009-11-13T10:38:00.000-06:00

While it has become common for studio sports analysis teams to have a revolving door of changing faces practically every season, the TNT NBA studio team of former players Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith, and studio host Ernie Johnson has remained together for the past 9 years. The acclaimed FOX NFL pregame lost its studio host, James Brown to CBS last year. But even as Johnson recovered from cancer two years ago Inside the NBA kept its team intact.

Ernie is often the straight man to Chuck’s comedy and Kenny “the Jet” Smith plays both sides. The show balances serious game analysis with humor seamlessly. Chuck, Kenny and Ernie sometimes disagree with each other, but the disagreements don’t escalate into the contentiousness (sometimes staged) that you see on other sports shows.
It would be interesting to see what the post-game ratings are for TNT’s NBA games are; my guess is there are quite a few viewers who stay tuned to hear Chuck, Ernie and Kenny’s post game remarks.

The Irony of the Balloon Boy Fiasco

2009-11-13T10:26:00.003-06:00

So Balloon Boy's father pleads guilty for making up this whole missing Balloon Boy fiasco to get some attention in the media. Though dad walks away with a felony and mom a misdemeanor, they seem to have more than accomplished their goal. They made up this story knowing they would get a minute in the spotlight, and instead they got a full MONTH. The media has had a field day covering every step of the story on Balloon Boy and his family, granting them the wish that initiated this whole scandal. I find it very ironic that though the parents were charged for actions they did to achieve this publicity, it is as a result of these actions and charges that they are receiving even more publicity than they had every imagined. Another thing I find interesting about the story is the fact that this boy’s disappearance received so much attention in the first place. I understand the circumstances were rather unique to start with, but it still received an obscene amount of media attention. All across the country the story was heard on the radio and television, posted all over the internet and in the papers, and was the topic of most conversations. So, Kudos to Balloon Boy’s parents. You have officially wasted endless amounts of media coverage that could have been used to focus on more important things happening in the world, but instead focused on you and your balloon.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/11/13/balloon.boy.heene/index.html

Whatever happened to Thanksgiving?

2009-11-13T10:20:00.002-06:00

Is it just me or is the Christmas season getting longer every year. On the channel I was watching the countdown to Christmas starts in a few days. Christmas decorations have been up at stores since before Halloween. I am waiting for radio stations to start playing Christmas songs 24/7. I feel the media is in part responsible for the Christmas moving forward every year. I would like to enjoy my holidays as they come up. It seems to me that Thanksgiving has in a way disappeared because it was overtaken by Christmas. Also, it seems that the same thing is slowly happening to Halloween. I want to go back in time to when life was simpler and holidays had there own specific time frame. Holidays didn’t just get taken over by other holidays and catalogues didn’t start coming out with decorations at least 2 month before the actual holiday.

TGIF

2009-11-13T10:05:00.002-06:00

With all our talk in class lately about how media represent culture in ways of race, gender, etc., it's interesting to me to see a show that (all-in-all) attempts to convey a middle-America setting, cast, and plot line.

Friday Night Lights has been my favorite show pretty much since it debuted back in late 2007.

The show takes place in a made up town in Texas and, in general, is about their high school football team. But in reality you only see about 3 minutes of a football game every two episodes. It's more about the emotions and dilemmas people are faced with in their lives.

The latest episode's most notable conflict came when the head coach wrote a large check without telling his wife. He at first lied about it, then came clean and they inevitably had a fight and eventually made up. The little things like this make this show hit so much closer to home than any other I have seen in quite some time.

2012

2009-11-13T09:55:00.003-06:00

Not only do the Mayans predict it and it has been prophesized through the Christian Bible, but now there is a movie that will emphasize was Nostradamus and others have predicted about the dreaded, end of the world! There have been many television shows, books and talk about when and how the world will end. Yes, it is so, that the Mayan calendar ends on December 21, 2012 and the world will crumble. Why is this so? Also, many prophesies through the Bible predict such ideas but in a more vague way. Now, a movie has been made with that exact idea, "2012". There is no fighting the bad guy,unless you want to refer to the bad guy as the world, or the sun, melting the Earth. It's like there is no escape and a select group of people will be taken into safe hands through the words of the Bible. They will live the disaster in a new place that people call Heaven.

What is ironic about this movie and has people talking, is it may not just be a movie to some people. Depending on your beliefs this may be a foreshadow of what is to come in years to come.

Media Influence

2009-11-13T09:51:00.002-06:00

There are many outdated theories and communication models that label media as a negative force in society. One in particular is the Hypodermic model, also known as the silver bullet model. The flow of communication moves in one direction, from media to audience and implies that media directly injects its beliefs into the blood stream of audience members.

I found a video on YouTube, Kittens inspired by Kittens, that demonstrates an updated communication model in which communication is multi-directional. In the video, a young girl reads a book about kittens. She can’t actually read the words, but she draws her own meaning from the pictures or images on the page.

What I find most interesting is that the young girl identifies the kittens but creates imaginary scenarios.

For example, one kitten in the book is standing alone outside. The girl says the cat is a “secret agent.” There is another picture of two cats sitting inside of a basket. The girl says the kittens are in Hawaii.

When I look at the images I see something completely different. The first example does not look like an undercover cat. To me, it looks like a cat who just heard a noise and wants to know what or who is behind him. The second example simply looks like two cats in a basket. The background looks nothing like a tropical place or Hawaii.

The point is that each audience member has the ability to interpret images in their own way based on personal experience. Media definitely has the ability to influence social norms, but there are other factors involved in the process.

Not easy being 15!

2009-11-13T00:18:00.002-06:00

Even though I'm 20 years old Taylor's Swift's 15 song just hits the right spot. It just gives me butterflies because it reminds me so much of when I was 15 years old and all the awkward situations and feelings i had to endure back then... I don't even know why I am announcing my love for one of taylor's songs on blogger, I guess in some ways she might want to feel some normalcy by talking to her fans and telling them about her experiences and what she's been though, give them some sort of insight to her life in order to show them that she is normal and that she's approachable. I just feel that she can be a great person to look up to as a young girl; I guess she's one of the few celebrities that are actually using their fame to truly connect with her fans and give them something to look forward to instead of telling them to get drunk and loose control!

to watch the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92rsDAkRol8

2009-11-12T21:49:00.000-06:00

Justin Bieber…really?

I’m only 21, and already I’ve had a few of those “OMG AM I REALLY THIS OLD?!?!” moments. I had another one of them tonight. While my friend and I were working (I’m a red bull girl, so we were driving in the mini) we drove passed The Rave and saw a HUUUUUGE line – all the way to McDonalds; completely around the block – so we pulled over. In line were hundreds of teeny bopper girls (and some moms and dads too) waiting in line to see Justin Bieber. I had absolutely no clue who this guy (kid) was, so when we left The Rave we turned on Kiss FM, and found out that he’s actually a 15 year old! Apparently I’ve either gotten so old that I don’t even know who the new pop stars are now, or I’ve been living under a rock? I choose to think I’ve been living under a rock.

"Elvis is NOT DEAD!"...I suppose now Michael Jackson isn't either.

2009-11-12T20:37:00.003-06:00

It seems that we may still see the King of Pop in future music videos and movies, complete with new dance routines. I'm not talking about just pictures, I'm talking about Michael Jackson '96, before the skin disorder and nose job.

An article was published today (11/12/09) on Gigwise.com that revealed 3D scans that were taken of the late pop singer back in 1996. These 3D plans were discovered when "an American Business man tried to sell them off for 1 million euros. The man said that ever since these 3D scans were taken that, "The data has been in our archive and vault since them."

I suppose, why wouldn't you try and make a couple extra bucks from the only 3D scan of the late King of Pop. The scans were original takenfor no other reason other than so Jackson could have a virtual double of himself. Once again, if I had more money than I knew what to do with, I suppose I would purchases just as crazy.

So no, this does not mean we will have a living breathing Michael Jackson singing new songs and recording new albums. But for the hardcore Jackson fans out there, it may be there one shot to sing the King of Pop in action once again. Virtual Michael Jackson is better than no Michael Jackson.

yes we can

2009-11-12T14:08:00.004-06:00

I don't know if everyone has seen this video yet, but it has been around since the election. I just saw it this year, it is a collaborative work based off of one of Obama's candidate speeches. I was think about a topic of copy write law and how this video infringes on it,or not at all. I think this is a great example of sampling or remix culture. They took a form of media, Obama's speech, which i think is media in one of its most simplistic forms. Then a variety of artists came together to remake the speech into a song form, that has been used as a viral advertisement during the election campaign. There is a variety of race, gender and age represented in this video all coming together because they are for a common belief, passion and cause; which makes for a very powerful product. I think that this is the kind of political campaigning and advertising that the nation needs when making difficult decisions such as electing an individual to office. The negative attack ads, in my opinion do the opposite of helping voters make an informed decision, but rather they scare voters into voting for a candidate. I just love this speech and video and wanted everyone to experience it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SsV2O4fCgjk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUKINg8DCUo&NR=1 I just thought that you should also see this one.

Walmart redefines "Save Money. Live Better."

2009-11-11T19:46:00.000-06:00

While surfing my google reader I found a lot of the typical articles that appear from week to week. Articles like "New media buying strategies for Target" or "Droid to trump iPhone" and so forth. Today, well, today was a different story. While scrolling through I saw an article that involved Walmart and caskets. Yes, caskets. Walmart launched a new line of caskets and other funeral supplies last month by Star Legacy. Interesting enough, Walmart is not the first online retailer to start selling coffins online. Amazon and Costco have already hopped the bandwagon. Jessica, a spokeswoman for the Star Legacy Group notes, "Buying caskets online...brings the risk of a substandard or damaged product that might not be possible to fix or replace in time for a funeral." This risk is just one some may be willing to take in order to save a few bucks.

The fun doesn't stop here. Star Legacy plans to come out with 200 item on Walmart.com which include pet urns and memorial jewelry.

Idiot vs. Food

2009-11-10T11:56:00.002-06:00

This is Adam Richman from the show Man vs. Food which airs on Wednesday nights on the Travel Channel. The show is in its second season. Adam will probably not make it to the third season of this ambitious program because he will die of a heart attack. I don't mean to be so negative but this guy is literally going to eat himself into an early grave. He travels all around the country to find in his words, "America's favorite pig out spots." He looks like a pig in this picture.

I admit, I do watch this show. Although, I may be disgusted by the food torture Adam puts himself through. I still watch Man vs. Food faithfully and in amazement. Some of the food challenges he tries to conquer are brutal and less than healthy. He might not be the biggest guy but he sure can eat! It does not matter what type of food it is. He will devour it. Whether it be fried, baked, boiled, or grilled. Adam Richman will eat it all and then some.

Values

2009-11-09T21:18:00.002-06:00

Perhaps some of you have heard of the Foundation for a Better Life. If not, let me be the first to say that this non-profit organization is unlike any I have ever heard of before. The Foundation for a Better Life only has one goal and that is to “encourage others to do good.”

This company really interests me because, in a world where most of the media industry aims to secure a profit, it seems this organization truly wants to simply promote positive values. The organization displays its message using only billboards. So far there are 68 values and 49 billboards which promote one value. Each billboard showcases one value that is thought to be beneficial to society. Each billboard also features an image that corresponds with the value. The smallest, least noticeable aspect on the billboard is the organization’s name and website address. In fact, while driving by it, it is hard to see “Foundation for a Better Life.”

The images on the billboards are pictures that represent the value. For example, Michael J. Fox is featured on the billboard with the value of optimism, stating he is “determined to outfox Parkinson’s.” Under “Optimism” the phrase “Pass it on” is legible. The pictures on the billboards range from well-known figures such as Kermit the Frog or Gandhi to inspiring events such as the successful Hudson River plane landing and September 11, 2001, when 3 New York firefighters raised an American flag at Ground Zero.

It is very interesting, yet strange, that this company puts its message before trying to gain corporate awareness and power. If you do end up looking at the website, there is hardly any information about the organization besides information relating to promoting values and, therefore, a better life. The foundation does not even ask for public donations; it is privately funded.

Happy Birthday Sesame Street!

2009-11-07T20:21:00.002-06:00

This week I turned 20 years old. I thought that was cool. However, even crazier is twenty years ago this week Sesame Street aired! A classic favorite for children now, and from many decades before them and us, the show has reached the milestone for 40 years on air. It hardly seems real, because before the publicity about this, I thought Sesame Street was a show of my time. I watched Sesame Street, but I can not say it was my favorite. However, President Obama does make a good point about the show in this video. Sesame is an all-American show. It shows good values and morals, and has been a successful part of the media for four decades. I really cannot think of any other show that has been on this long, and still continues to be a success. Sesame Street is more than just a show. I remember seeing Sesame Street on ice. I remember HAVING to have a Tickle Me Elmo, because it was all the rage, even though I was far past the age of playing with a red furry doll that simply laughed when you touched it. Sesame Street draws people in. It is a show parents grew up watch, and it is a show that parents know they want their kids to watch. As President Obama says, it is something that has stayed consistent for a long period of time. Within the media, I feel as that is something that does not happen often. Happy Birthday Sesame Street, you were pretty damn cool when I was a kid, and I guess your pretty damn cool these days too.

RISK

2009-11-06T11:28:00.002-06:00

Another board game to be a movie, "RISK" is comming to the big screen. For those of you who don't know this game it deals with taking over the world. I feel that it is interesting when board games become movies, but I think it is great for kids because it really brings a board game to life.

Such as the movie Jumanji, which I thought was a great movie, and indeed it became such a big hit on the big screen. On Perezhilton.com it states, "Sony has aquired the rights to the board game "Risk" known as "the classic board game of world conquest." I wonder what board game will be next after this to become a big hit. Maybe the game of Life? Or possibly Monopoly? I actually think a movie pertaining to the board game Candy Land would be pretty great, and I think that it would attract a large audience. Why is it that board games can become such powerful media texts on the big screen? I think the whole idea of Jumanji lets us basically “live” the game through the movie, which I think the movie “RISK” is going to do also. I just wonder what they will come up with next, I think this kind of goes along with the whole GI Joe thing as well as the whole Pokeman faze where they started a tv series actually called, Pokemon. Also Monopoly could even be tied into these series and movies because Monopoly started a whole game thing at McDonald’s allowing for people to participate and win prizes and play the game through the restaurant. What will be next!

Air Jordan

2009-11-06T11:14:00.003-06:00

For those of you that don't know, Michael Jordan's son, Marcus Jordan, plays college basketball at the University of Central Florida. The school has a contract with Adidas for all its sports, which means everyone has to wear their apparel during games. This is where the problem comes in. Marcus decided he wanted to wear his father's line of shoes, which is an extension of Nike, to games. UCF allegedly got permission from Adidas a month ago for him to do this. Evidently they got directed to the wrong person at Adidas, because the company announced on Monday that they are ending the five-year contract with the school because of Jordan's actions. Adidas officials stated, "The University of Central Florida has chosen not to deliver on their contractual commitment to Adidas. As a result, we have chosen not to continue our relationship with them moving forward."

Jordan's line of shoes are expensive, but the pair Marcus wore Wednesday may be the most expensive yet. Not only did he cost the sports program at UCF a contract deal that will ultimately cost the school money, he cast a negative image on the school as a whole. Honestly, I'm on Marcus' side in this matter. I think it's pretty ridiculous that every player is required to wear one brand of shoes, especially under these circumstances. Marcus is essentially honoring his father, who is arguably the best basketball player of all- time, and Michael deserves that honor. Adidas backing out of their contract opens up a perfect opportunity for Nike, their main competitor, to take over the opening at UCF. For the sake of both parties, I hope Adidas comes to their senses and keeps the contract with the school.

Give me Drugs!

2009-11-06T10:28:00.003-06:00

I had an interesting class discussion in my JMC 661 class. I had to do a presentation on health in the media and the way messages are presented.

There are many ethical issues (at least I think so) because most pharmaceutical companies care about is the profit that they make. They design their ads to make people think they are depressed or that there body is under attack. We take the blame away from our lifestyles and blame a "disease." Whether there does a legit disease exist or not, the bottom line is that the ads are very deceiving. I know that advertising is a tool used to promote a product, but shouldn't there be standards and more regulations? I get that pharmaceutical companies and the ad industry aren't the only ones to blame, but they need to take caution and the first steps in framing disease differently. Majority of our society are using one or more prescription drugs. I just think that is healthy. But what can be done? Who is to blame? These are the questions that make this debate difficult because the lines of responsibility are blurry!

One point that I think is valid that alludes to how politics, wealth and power control most decisions is that the three main "sponsors" for a drug-free America were pharmaceutical, tabacco and oil industries. Now, the campaign for a drug-free America has lost pharmaceutical companies because prescription drugs are abused and have been abused more than drugs off the street. YET, the drug-free America campaign failed to campaign against that because they were threatened by pharmaceutcial financial help!!!! These three indsutries are very powerful and control a lot, a lot more than we think they do!! Something to think about?

Rihanna Comes Forward

2009-11-06T10:25:00.002-06:00

Nine months after the world watched pictures and stories spread across all different forms of media, Rihanna has decided to step forward and tell all. I applaud her. Being a star and living in the limelight is obviously an extremely difficult thing to do, and most stars deal by hiding from the cameras and the public eye. To let such personal aspects of your life get tossed around for pure entertainment is challenging for stars, and many choose to keep most areas of their life private. Instead of letting the continuous rumors spread and letting people draw up their own conclusions, Rihanna set the record straight. Despite the level of difficulty in going public with this, she has done much more than clear up some ridiculous celebrity gossip. She has shown women around the world that it is okay to speak up. That it is okay to admit it wasn’t your fault. I also think this whole story is a good eye-opener because it goes to show the rest of Hollywood that it doesn’t matter who they are, they can’t always get away with everything. Chris Brown has gone public with his apology and also explained that he is serving time and is also unable to contact Rihanna for five years. Though the whole incident is unfortunate, I think the end result will be encouragement for people out there experiencing the same type of situation.

Rihanna on Good Morning America
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nuQJICTEeO4

People of Wal-Mart

2009-11-06T10:23:00.002-06:00

This site titled People Wal-Mart is a site where people can send in images of people from the local Wal-Mart. I admit I have sat on this site and scanned through and laughed at some of the things people wear but at the same time I feel that this site is an invasion of privacy. On the site there are supporters of the site who write love mail. Also there are people who don't like the site. You can become a fan of this site on Facebook, follow them on Twitter. One thing find in a way strange is located at the bottom of the site. “This site is NOT in anyway affiliated with Walmart. If you are looking for Walmart.s official website you can find it by clicking here “This will take the viewer to the Wal-Mart Site.

Reflections on a Mad Men world

2009-11-06T09:08:00.001-06:00

Watching the first season of the AMC series Mad Men (a recent birthday gift) I’ve reflected a lot recently on a pre-Civil Rights; Women’s Liberation Movement; and Gay Rights Moment. The necessity for all of these movements was interrelated because they respectively pushed for equal access for all people to be afforded the opportunity to pursue the happiness that our founding document guaranteed.

In Mad Men wives and secretaries labor in obscurity confined to home and desk. They attempt to explore other avenues of their humanity but are prodded and sometimes pushed back to the positions in which men are comfortable seeing them. Black people serve as elevator operators and other servants and pop up to utter a line occasionally while the Civil Rights Movement is bubbling on the periphery. A closeted gay character fights his sexual urges while living the lie of a heterosexual.
My reflections on the early 60’s time frame the show depicts makes me pause, and thank God for progress.

Planes, Pigs, Elephants, and Automobiles

2009-11-06T08:22:00.002-06:00

In today's edition of the Journal Sentinel there are not one, but two articles describing what ensues when technology collides with nature...literally. First up was a national airline plane in Zimbabwe that was disabled after colliding with five wild pigs on the runway. In a statement by Associated press, the plane's undercarriage collapsed on impact, and all 34 passengers on board were safely evacuated. They made no mention, however, of what became of the pigs, but one can only imagine that they did not come out as safely as the passengers, seeing as they were pigs and their opposition was a multi-passanger airplane.

Bizarre animal accidents seem only to report extensively on the condition of the animal involved if the animal at hand is on a path to recovery. Such is the case with a an elephant involved in a car accident with an SUV in Enid, Oklahoma. An article detailing the accident and the elephant's injuries and post-accident care can by found on the page following the article about the wild pig plane crash. It seems a gentleman named Bill Carpenter was driving home from church on Wednesday evening when he swerved at the last second on the highway to avoid hitting nothing less than a an eight foot, 4,500 pound pachyderm. His SUV ended up sideswiping the animal, which had run away from a nearby fair, resulting in tusk puncture on the side of the SUV, and a broken tusk and a leg would for the elephant. The elephant was treated by a veterinarian who found the animal "hiding in the some bushes just off the highway" after the accident. I personally would love to see 4,500 pound elephant "hiding" in some bushes. I'd also be curious to see what a "tusk puncture" in an SUV looks like.

The driver of the SUV claimed that the elephant "blended in with the road". I have a hard time imagining that an elephant of that size blends in with anything, especially in Oklahoma. Some future advice to pilots and drivers: check the road ahead of you for wildlife and the occasional elephant.

Cheap Movies = Big Bucks

2009-11-06T01:48:00.004-06:00

In order to make a profit on a movie, a film obviously needs to rake in more money at the box office, than it cost to make the movie. So how does a film maker make the big bucks? Its easy. Take a handful of skeptical people, throw them in a paranormal situation, and give them a camera. So far, movies like the new Paranormal Activity have proven this a fact.

The new movie Paranormal Activity, has made a killing at the box office since it was released in late September,only costing $10,000 to make. The movie only has up to four characters throughout the whole movie, and the film only has one setting. The only other thing that is needed to make this film work is the audiences imagination.

What is it exactly that make Paranormal Activity such a smash hit? Simply enough, it is everyone's basic fear of the things that go bump in the night. Every noise you have ever heard at 3 a.m., ever shadow you have seen, every time you have felt the vinrations of your house settling, this is the fear that paranormal Activity feeds on. After seeing this movie, any creek shadow, or vibration that you may experience during the night will never let you forget about this film.

Playing on these simple common fears is what has given such a long lasting impression on the audiences. Who would of thought that a $10,000 film would have profited for millions of dollars. This goes to shows that it is the good ideas and stories that make a good movie, and not just stunning special effects or dialogue. A good movie has to evoke strong emotion within a person. If a film is able to do this, then there is no telling how much success that this movie will recieve.

The Onion, Comedy Central team up for new show

2009-11-05T22:27:00.002-06:00

The Onion is combining with Comedy Central to have a half hour sports comedy show aimed at longtime followers of The Onion. It's being billed as "The most intense sports show in history," so it will have a lot to live up to.

The show is an extension of the Onion Sports Network online series. The site is The Onion's sports coverage in video format, and is a must-see for sports fans.

An example of an OSN story:

NHL Tries To Woo Fans By Increasing Scoring With Bigger Nets, 3-Point Line

I can certainly see this being pretty successful, especially with those of us that are sick of SportsCenter running the same stories all day long.

"The Onion is the biggest, most fearless, most influential news organization in the free world," said Steve Hannah, CEO of Onion, Inc. "And we see a collaboration with COMEDY CENTRAL as the next logical step in the expansion of the Onion Sports Network's hard-hitting coverage."

I can see this new program taking several jabs at Brett Favre's indecisiveness, Terrell Owens' awful reality show, the Cardinals' recent hiring of the much-maligned Mark McGwire, and the Twitter revolution by athletes.

This type of show will fit in well with Comedy Central's other satirical shows like the Colbert Report and Tosh.0. I'm really hoping that this show succeeds as there's no other sports show like it currently on television. I think the creative minds at The Onion will have plenty of new material for the show to keep it going.

This just in

2009-11-05T21:25:00.003-06:00

I'm sure by now, everyone has heard about the Ft. Hood shootings down in Texas. While this is obviously a tragic event, my topic isn't exactly about the specific news in itself, but rather in how it was brought to us and how it is termed.

When I came home from class around 4 o'clock, my roommate was watching TMJ and they were covering this story pretty extensively. When I saw that they already had a field reporter in a local person affected by the shooting, I asked how long this had been going on. He guessed since about 1:30 that afternoon. That means they were able to find someone and get out there and get the house ready for TV in a matter of a little over two hours. Since this was not a local event, I found that impressive.

This is still not my main point though. My main point is when the 6 o'clock news came on they called this tragedy "breaking news." My roommate instantly started mocking that term, since he had clearly heard about the story 4 + 1/2 hours earlier. But to the working class of America, this is probably still relatively breaking news. I'm sure they heard something about it on their drive home from work, or while they were surfing the web while at work, but the details they were probably getting at that moment. It just made me wonder, at what time frame does a story stop becoming breaking news, and just become news? If something happens between the major news times (morning, noon, 6 pm, 10 pm) does that make it breaking at the nearest news time slot? I think that makes the most sense, but I could see the argument others could make that five hours is a long time in our current "gotta have it now" style world we live in.

Meth and Celebrites

2009-11-05T21:22:00.002-06:00

Not only do celebrities get their elated fix off fame, but drugs. As of late, celebrities such as Andre Agassi, an olympic gold medal winner in men's tennis singles, has recently admitted to his addiction to crystal meth. After years of denying it when being tested positive, he has come out to admit it in his new book, "Open". Now Agassi is clean and proud to tell his story of what he overcame, but like other celebrities it was a hard thing to overcome because the feeling of meth provided euphoria, hope and a lot of energy. Something that couldn't have been achieved in other ways.

Other well known open meth users of celebrities include, Amy Winehouse, Ryan O'Neal, Fergie, and Jodie Sweetin (Stephanie on Full House). Sweetin also has a book out "Unsweetined" and talks about how she hit a rock bottom in her meth addiction. Ended up in the hospital one night after a long night of partying and seeking rehab. However she kept the addiction binges while she was trying to seek help.

Not an easy addiction to overcome, but in the fame life it seems to be an easy thing to get a handle on and find an obsession with it.

Lights, Camera, Scandal!

2009-11-05T19:43:00.002-06:00

Once again a scandalous story has found its way on every gossip magazine's front page! “Fergie Betrayed” “Did He Really Do It?” they are talking about newly married couple Josh Duhamel and Fergi. The most recent gossip has been about a stripper who confessed that Josh had sexual relations with her while he was away from home/Fergie filming his upcoming movie. Okay so this isn't the first time a story like this has found its way on these covers, my question is that did they plant it themselves? I actually won't be surprised if they did, they are both currently working on projects that will be surfacing soon.. maybe they just need all the help they could get! Fergie calls all these claims nonsense and doesn't believe any of them. They also took a picture together and probably sent it to these gossip magazines because I found a picture of the “happy couple” on people.com saying that this was taken after all these allegations. Once again Hollywood has outdone its self in order to sell more of the same!

877-CASH-NOW

2009-11-04T16:41:00.002-06:00

As I sit on my couch watching the continuous feed of pointless commercials that never seem to be that effective, I come across a commercial I have seen to many times and always dread hearing it. Although it is probably one of the more effective commercials it still drives me crazy when it comes on. I do have cable however I have only seen the commercial come on the local channels. It is the J. G Wentworth Opera commercial, which I am sure some of you have heard of. Throughout this commercial they say the phone number 8 times!! If you don’t remember the number to J.G. Wentworth after hearing this you must be crazy. Besides the effective repetition this commercial uses, the overall construction of the commercial is pretty lousy. The words on the bottom of the screen help develop a visual memory of the number and who you would be calling but the people used in the commercial and the overall annoyance of it makes it very unappealing. Although I dislike this commercial very much you have to give it credit for being able to use repetition to become familiar to its consumer. Just try not to sing it after watching it… 877-CASH-NOW!!!

Stewart and Colbert: Getting Youth Involved

2009-11-03T22:57:00.005-06:00

Ever since I've had access to comedy central, I've been a fan of their mockery of political pundits and the shows these figures pretend to host without bias. I'm talking of course about The Daily Show with John Stewart, and it's spinoff, the Colbert Report. These talented comedians have done more to inspire an interest in politics among youth than any one else in my mind. It doesn't matter that it's not "real" or more aptly put "traditional" news. The fact that it presents some of the important issues, even though it's in a comedic light, is enough to give the show validity. I once heard someone say, "it's sad that some people get all their news from [these shows]." I highly doubt this is the case with anyone, as people who watch these shows are not dumb people relying on it for news. In my experience, they are most often people who have been inspired to care about something they normally wouldn't due to clever repackaging. In this sense, I can't help but think that these shows do an enormous service to America by teaching young people to care about politics without them even knowing it. It's also often entertaining as hell too.

Alice in Wonderland (2010)

2009-11-03T11:35:00.002-06:00

The recent previews for the next Tim Burton film, Alice in Wonderland, have everyone talking. The film is supposed to be released in March of 2010. The film is said to be using both live action as well as motion capture, which is said to be the recording of real motion and translating it to appear digital.

We all know and love the 1950’s version of Alice in Wonderland produced by Disney, but with the enormous expansion of technology over the decades one can only imagine the improvements made. The movie is said to be made available in Disney 3D as well.

The story is said to be both a combination as well as an expansion to the two novels, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass, written by Lewis Carroll. The plot resumes as Alice as a 19-year-old young woman. Alice, in need of an escape from a party, follows a white rabbit down a hole, finding herself in Wonderland. The only difference is, she had already visited Wonderland as a young girl, but does not remember. Alice then embarks on a journey to slay the “Jabberwock” and save Wonderland from the evil Red Queen.

Mia Wasikowska, who plays Alice, is accompanied by Johnny Depp as The Mad Hatter, Helena Bonham Carter as The Red Queen, and Anne Hathaway as The White Queen. With this powerful cast as well as a trailer that will suck you in, all most everyone has to be anxious for March!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeWsZ2b_pK4 (Video would not attach)

Meet my friend Hank Moody..

2009-11-03T06:01:00.002-06:00

I don’t know for some reason I wish there was a real Hank Moody. Well I can’t say I don’t know why because I know why. It’s because I want to live vicariously through David Duchovny and his character Hank Moody. Sounds pathetic but it is what it is. Did you see how attractive all those women were? This show makes Californian women look oh so gorgeous. How can a man not be tempted? No wonder Hank gets himself in the most ridiculous situations. Anyway, I wish that was my best friend. Ha-ha.

If you don't know, now you know. This is another one of my many favorite television shows. Californication is well into its third season now and doing quite well on Sunday night cable prime time. Networks HBO and Showtime go tit for tat with award winning shows. Californication has experienced tremendous success for only being in its third season. It has won an Emmy and a Golden Globe award. The show is a comedy-drama that will have you bursting out in laughter and leave you reflecting on your relationships with loved ones. Hank Moody is a witty and promiscuous writer. He just can’t seem to keep his libido incognito. However, he is intelligent man and father who love his daughter and her mother very much. The plot is great and full of interesting and funny characters. If you haven’t heard of this show start watching it because its good.

Bachelor and Flavor of Love Race Issues

2009-11-02T20:47:00.003-06:00

This article comes at a perfect time as we just finish Chapter 6 discussion on social inequality and media reality. This article 'Performing Race and Flavor of Love and The Bachelor' discusses the racial ideas played onto both shows. I have watched both shows, but I will admit I do love trashy TV and have watched not only 'Flavor of Love', but also the VH1 spinoffs 'I Love New York' and 'Real Chance At Love'. There is something about this crazy TV that I cannot take my eyes off of it. I have watched 'The Bachelor', but was not as entertained by it, probably because I do love the crazy fights and rowdy girls of 'Flavor of Love'. However, this leads me to what the article discusses how Flavor of Love places a focus and emphasis on the color of the contestants, where as The Bachelor, although it hardly has a diverse cast that strays from white woman, it still hardly emphasizes race as much as Flavor of Love. I believe, that this emphasis is what makes the show what it is. Flavor Flav even addressed himself as the 'Blak-chelor' once. Clearly, racial ideas are present here. However, what kind of racial ideas are being given off. Anyone who has seen the show, can easily agree that it does not shine light on the poise and class of these African American woman, with much more of exposure on 'the hood' and 'ghetto' lifestyle that these girls defend, stand for, and come from. It shows how The Bachelor, even if you never noticed or let it cross your mind before, does not have any racial diversity, and doesn't comment on the skin color, background or ethnicity of any of the woman. This may seem negative, but in reality there are such few contestants that are not white, that it isn't even an issue that really can be addressed. On the other hand, it seems that, after I read this, 'Flavor of Love' has taken it almost too far, putting so much focus on the fights, the ghetto, and the bad girl background that these girls actually strive to prove they come from and have. If you have ever watched either of these shows, the article is defiantly worth checking out. It shined the light on how racial ideas are spread throughout reality, even when they are not present, for example in shows such as 'The Bachelor'.

newspapers, a dying art form

2009-10-30T15:36:00.002-05:00

Print newspaper have been the largest consumed form of readily available information since the printing press was invented. Now days, the newspaper medium is taking a back seat to the other information outlets that new technology have made available. With television and the internet, fewer and fewer Americans are running out in the morning to fetch the daily news. Newspapers arent dying in other locations around the globe, it just happens to be in the U.S. Why is that? Is it because the U.S. has many technological outlets and opportunities to view the news in a different medium. It could be. But my theory is that Newspaper sales are declining because they are just plain old boring. Newspapers in Europe and Asia follow a very different out line of what a newspaper should look like. They use racy pictures, and controversial dialect, to draw the audience in. Their articles are concise but not boring, and they don't clutter the front page with type. I think that the newspaper industry can be revived in the U.S. if we give it a face lift. Try something new, step outside the box, design the paper to give the reader and incentive or want to read it.

Obama featured in 3 new documentaries

2009-10-30T11:12:00.002-05:00

President Barack Obama is featured in 3 new documentaries about his life, politics, and family.

All 3 have different sides of the Obama story. The first is directed by Edward Norton (star of Fight Club) and deals with Obama's historic rise to the top of the political world. The doc was actually started before Obama announced he was running for president. Obama was actually advised by his people to continue shooting the film once he announced his presidential candidacy, but Barack thought it would offer the public an "interesting slant" on American politics. It will air on November 3rd on HBO.

The second documentary is titled Labor Day, a movie about how the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) quickly mobilized to ensure a Democratic victor in the 2008 election. Directed by Glenn Silber, the documentary is more about the events leading up to the election. The movie goes into theaters today.

The final documentary, Becoming Barack, will be released on DVD November 3rd. It tells the life story of how Barack Obama, from his younger years all the way to the present. The documentary attempts to give viewers a sense of what Obama is like outside of the White House, from his early days as a community activist to his time spent teaching constitutional law at the University of Chicago.

All 3 films should give a really interesting perspective on the real Barack Obama. You may not agree with everything that's happened so far while he's been in the White House, but the journey he's taken to become President of the United Sates is certainly fascinating.

SportCenter

2009-10-30T10:55:00.001-05:00

I am a big time sports fan. But I must admit that ESPN is starting to get a little old. I can only watch so much SportsCenter over and over again. The station runs the same stories over and over again. The news in general has been accused of looking for every possible angle when a big story hits (think Michael Jackson’s death); ESPN does this with practically every story. I find myself rooting for Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez just because I don’t want to hear countless reports on how he can’t perform in the post season.

ESPN should take a cue from MTV’s relative abandonment from music videos, and ditch ESPN for different programming. Well, maybe not that extreme. Just get rid of the 3 hour block of the same stories in which the most informative bits run quickly across the crawler at the bottom of the screen.

2009-10-30T10:52:00.001-05:00

In Eminem’s m music video for his song “3 a.m.” the director did a masterful job of styling the video in order to really bring the viewer into the story. The use, or lack thereof, of color and lighting throughout the video really helped to set the depressive/drug induced scene that was the theme of the song. The majority of the video is shot in black and white with very dull lighting with the exception of brief ‘blasts’ of bright light to enhance the eerie feeling of the location. In addition to the lighting used, the filming technique is key to immersing the viewer in the story. Most of the scenes were shot with what appeared to be a handheld camera in the style of “The Blair Witch.” The jerkiness of the camera along with the scratchy quality of the video played a large role in creating the tone of the video. The final main element that I noticed play a large role in making the video very effective was the use of editing. To kind of go along with the handheld technique used, the editing jumped around a lot in quick bursts. When all of these elements are combined with the beat and lyrics, they come together to really bring the song to life. In this day and age of music video basically being short films, the creators of this one have done a masterful job of telling this particular story

. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMrBcVx33Ek

Disorderly Conduct for McDonalds Rap

2009-10-30T10:50:00.002-05:00

Most people have seen the video of the kids rapping their order in the McDonald's drive-through. Many I'm sure would agree that it is pure entertainment to watch and listen to. Apparently in Utah, employees didn't find it so funny, and they called the cops on four kids who did a similar rendition of the popular video. Though it is pretty hilarious that these kids got a disorderly conduct for rapping about some burgers and fries, it is beyond ridiculous. Maybe in Utah there isn't a whole lot of crime, but that doesn't mean people/cops should classify minor incidents as criminal. All this was about was a couple of kids wanting to have a good time and joking around for their own entertainment. I feel like the whole law enforcement process is incredibly twisted. Just because you can’t find crime doesn’t mean you should create one out of nothing. Would you rather these kids be sneaking around after curfew doing drugs or drinking? Let’s get real here.

Here's the infamous McDonalds Rap from 2 years ago:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sw2OvIgoO8