Progressive Values

Grammy Ratings Skyrocket Due To Whitney Houston Death

2012-02-13T15:47:00.000-08:00

Whitney Houston's death tributes at this year's Grammys have helped to propel the program to ratings a whooping 41% above last years level. According to some rough figures, 39 million viewers watched this year compared to 26.7 million viewers a year ago. FOX, ABC and NBC had no way to predict that Whitney Houston's death would propel the Grammys to such monster ratings levels, and each network got clobbered in the ratings accordingly. FOX experienced series lows for example despite some great new episodes to air.

Each network hoped to draw respectable ratings to satisfy their sponsors demands as well as to post good numbers for February Sweeps. Instead, everyone got smashed in the ratings as huge CBS numbers even pulled 60 MINUTES up significantly.

These huge Grammy numbers were the second highest in history.

Whitney Houston's Cause Of Death

2012-02-13T14:20:00.000-08:00

TMZ is reporting that the family of Whitney Houston has been reportedly told of the likely cause of her death by the coroner's office, although more toxicology results have yet to come back from the lab. Reportedly, although there was some water in her lungs, it was considered to be too little to drown in the bathtub. She likely died from a combination of prescription drugs such as the anti-anxiety drug Xanax, and alcohol and other drugs which might have caused an accidental lethal interaction. At this point, without toxicology tests, it is difficult to determine more issues about the drugs and alcohol she used. Those results will answer more questions.

Some photos of the last moments of Whitney Houston this past week showed her looking like a mess, and it even looked like some blood drops were on her leg, which was a real mystery.

The nation has been struck with great sadness over her death, because she was considered to be one of the greatest singers of all time, and was related to several major singers herself. She was like musical royalty. The Grammys had a sad shadow cast over them by her death. And President Obama has called for the public to pray for her family, which was a kind gesture illustrating her importance as a major celebrity to the nation.

All of this sad news has to especially heartbreaking to Clive Davis, Whitney Houston's record producer. A very average looking teenager had been transformed into a glamorous and beautiful star to match her angelic voice, only to have her crash from personal demons that likely ultimately caused her death at an early age.

The Grammy Performance By The Doors That You Never Saw

2012-02-13T01:08:00.000-08:00

The three surviving members of The Doors, Ray Manzarek, Robbie Krieger and John Densmore have done a new music video segment for the upcoming ReGeneration Music Project Film with the electronic act, Skrillex. All three played on the song, "Breakin' A Sweat". But, you didn't see The Doors performing this song on the Grammys this year thanks to drummer John Densmore, who refused to join the other two members for a stage performance thanks to an ongoing feud. Densmore even went to the efforts to sue the other band members when they attempted to sell the song, "Break On Through" to Cadillac, so Cadillac had to use Led Zeppelin's "Rock And Roll" instead, some years back. And Densmore prevented the other two band members from using The Doors name when they sought to resurrect the band as The Doors Of The 21st Century.

At some point, fans of the legendary band can only hope that they can put all of their problems behind them. But, for this year's Grammys, no Doors onstage reunion.

Rumors Surround Health of Macaulay Culkin

2012-02-12T15:00:00.000-08:00

Some recent gaunt pictures of actor Macaulay Culkin are fueling rumors that the actor may be ill, however his spokesman has denied these rumors in the strongest possible terms, claiming that the actor is just fine and that these rumors are "reckless, irresponsible and destructive". Speculation has swirled on both the Internet as well as among celebrity news sources when some new photos of the actor suggested that he didn't appear to be well. Recently, some speculation about thin photos of Demi Moore were confirmed when she ended up in the hospital and then apparently in rehab according to many entertainment sources.

Some other sources have claimed that Macaulay Culkin may be losing weight for a role in the new movie, SERVICE MAN, however other sources claim that he's not involved in that project.

So, this whole thing stands here as a mystery. Macaulay Culkin did break up with his girlfriend of eight years, Mila Kunis, last year.

Howard Stern And Michele Bachmann Trade Insults In New Public Feud

2012-02-12T12:56:00.001-08:00

Although Howard Stern is something of a political independent with many Republican friends such as Donald Trump and former New York Governor George Pataki(Pataki would regularly call into Stern's radio show, where both Stern and Pataki would find common ground and laugh at more than a few things). Stern and failed GOP presidential candidate Michele Bachmann are now involved in a very public feud. Earlier in the week, Stern referred to Bachmann as the "worst person in the world". Instead of simply ignoring Stern's comments, Bachmann fired off her own nasty Email about Howard Stern claiming that he's "not a serious a person" and blaming him for "corrupting America's youth on public airwaves".

Hey, who could have ever expected that two of the most outrageous and silly personalities of our current civilization could ever be involved in a public feud?

Most politicians simply ignore comics such as Howard Stern, Jay Leno, David Letterman, etc. when they tell jokes or make funny comments about them. But, Michele Bachmann often seems compelled to respond to funny comments about her, often creating even more negative publicity. Bachmann has never received much over 52% of the vote in her three terms in Congress, and has probably hurt herself among many voters by her failed presidential bid and her involvement in some petty but high profile disputes with comics like Jimmy Fallon and now Howard Stern. Bachmann now has the some potential to lose office this year unless a strong GOP presidential candidate has enough coattails to pull her along.

On the other hand, Howard Stern's show often seems like a lot of small talk. However, any new controversy he can create only will drive up his ratings, as both his fans and critics like to tune in to see what he'll do next. Howard Stern never seems to lose in any public dispute with a celebrity. But, the celebrity or politician usually ends up on the low end of the stick. It's far better for some celebrity to ignore Howard Stern, then to keep the pot boiling.

Hostess Brilliant Plan To Come Back From Bankruptcy: New Chocolate Creme-Filled Twinkies

2012-02-09T16:21:00.001-08:00

Boy, oh boy, do you have to admire the gutsy, live by the seat of your pants business decisions of some company like Hostess which hopes to come back from Chapter 11 bankruptcy by pinning all their hopes on new some product. The Irving, Texas based company is no less than $1 billion dollars into major league debt problems due to declining sales for Wonder Bread as well as Twinkies and their other traditional products. With just half a billion in corporate assets including the office equipment, machinery and the trucks, the company is operating on a thin life-line of financial support of just a $75 million last ditch operating loan, only hoping to continue producing products and not shut their doors forever. The best answer that Hostess has to all of this high tension business drama is some bold new business decision to start producing chocolate creme-filled Twinkies. Wow. That's real guts.

Corporate executives usually earn pretty good salaries. I'm not sure how much Hostess pays theirs. But, I sure bet all of the investors and creditors in Hostess are very happy to have him at the helm, keeping the company afloat with brilliant business strategies such as chocolate creme filled Twinkies decision. How can a scheme that brilliant possibly fail?

Usually, CEOs earn their pay because of their brilliance and their sheer willingness to make some bold business decisions. In all of the history of American business, this chocolate creme-filled Twinkie business decision ranks as a real milestone.

PSYCHOLOGY TODAY Mocks Rick Santorum's Sexual Ignorance

2012-02-09T13:32:00.000-08:00

PSYCHOLOGY TODAY, the pop journal of psychology magazines, is running a critical feature this month on the sexual ignorance of Rick Santorum. PSYCHOLOGY TODAY noted that in a New Hampshire campaign appearance Santorum made the scientifically wrong statement claiming that, "God made man and woman, and men and women come together to have children, which keeps civilization going and provides the best environment for children to be raised". Well, PSYCHOLOGY TODAY noted that scientifically speaking such observations from Santorum don't really apply to the human species of animals.

Humans tend to have sex hundreds of times, if not thousands in most cases, before some episode of sexual intercourse actually results in a pregnancy or a live birth. Many animal mammal species on the other hand only tend to have sex during specific periods, so that the act often specifically results in pregnancy to further the species. Rick Santorum doesn't understand that humans are a far more intelligent species, who give sex a great deal of thought and complexity compared to other animal species. For some odd reason, Santorum thinks that human sex is the same as much animal mammal sexuality which often only takes place during specific ovulation periods.

Santorum is also a fierce opponent of the use of contraception by humans. He sees this as blocking the procreation process. However, it also serves many important components such as disease prevention. Even in monogamous couples, the potential to carry components that could lead to cervical cancer can still be very high. For example, an estimated 20 million Americans, or around 8% are infected with the HPV virus. And this figure can include many married or monogamous persons. Sexuality between an infected person and an uninfected person must include the use of condoms for example. Santorum's hard-line Roman Catholic view of condom use doesn't seem to be intelligent enough to comprehend the important medical reasons why condom use is often essential to many people having sex, including married persons. Rick Santorum's job after being voted of office by one of the biggest landslides for any incumbent senator ever was being a hospital administrator, although he has been condemned by critics for his inept handling of that job as well, where he really didn't accomplish much more than steer millions of dollars of federal grants to the hospital while fraud, rapes, a murder, and other crimes made the hospital the subject of sanctions from state and federal regulators.

Rick Santorum, like former candidate Michele Bachmann, both signed a pledge to support the ban of all pornography in the United States. However, that was a legally ignorant position as well, as most pornography is perfectly legal for sale, only a tiny portion of material dealing with very extreme material is considered to be legally obscene and can be prosecuted by law. Santorum also doesn't understand that humans are able to give sexuality a great deal of thought because of their higher intelligence than other animals, and pornography is only a reflection of that higher intelligence of the human species. Dogs don't have their own version of PLAYBOY for example. But, humans have that title and many more titles because the human can comprehend sexuality in much larger larger and intelligent terms than dogs can.

Santorum also doesn't seem to understand that the powerful nature of the sexual drive also makes human society and civilization possible. About the only men who aren't inspired enough to get a job or amass some wealth to attract a mate are complete skid row bums. Writers such as Brandais University Professor Herbert Marcuse wrote books such as EROS AND CIVILIZATION, where he lays out a brilliant theory at how the sex drive makes human society possible compared to other animal species who have all failed to build any civilizations, although some primitive groupings such as bee colonies, wolf packs or ape groups do exist. But, none of these compare to the civilization built by mankind, largely motivated by the sex drive of humans which has only inspired this development.

Unfortunately, Rick Santorum doesn't seem to give human sexuality much more regard than the sex life of cockroaches. Rick Santorum also well proves that he has little understanding of medical science, psychology, anthropology or numerous other scientific disciplines either. For some reason, Rick Santorum has found an audience of voters who only understand both religion. society and civilization in some of the most primitive of terms. It's almost like Rick Santorum is the tribal elder of some lost tribe where books or other learning tools don't yet exist in this civilization yet, because their society hasn't yet advanced enough. Santorum seems to have made himself a pretty easy mark for the pointed stick of this new PSYCHOLOGY TODAY piece by his hard work to elevate dirt ignorance to the status of some political ideology. But, then again what is to be expected from some politician who has publicly self-described himself as "crazy" at least once before. Rick Santorum just won three primary and caucus contests this past week. Many voters apparently agree with his message no matter how factually wrong it is, although most serious political pundits give him little hope of winning the Republican presidential nomination. His 15 minutes of fame since his very narrow 34 vote win in Iowa are extended for at least another week.

For some odd reason, all of Rick Santorum's goofy pronouncements haven't yet caused political suicide. And that's very perplexing for a civilization where the availability of information is far wider than ever before, thanks largely to the growth of computers as an information exchange medium. Rick Santorum's brand of politics has apparently tapped into the greatest pool of sheer ignorance since the dark ages. But, it's difficult to believe that most voters would be willing to elect someone president who lacks basic skills such as good judgment.

Snooki Claims To Be Bisexual

2012-02-08T16:19:00.000-08:00

Popular JERSEY SHORE star Snooki now claims that she is bisexual, and claims to have have "Done stuff with girls", but she also claims that she would never live with a woman because she claims to love "penis" too much. Well, that's very nice Snooki. I'm sure there are more than a few penises who also love you very much as well. But, you learn something new everyday, don't you? See, Progressive Values is practically an educational Website.

Randy Travis Apologizes For Drunken Arrest Outside Of Baptist Church

2012-02-08T13:42:00.001-08:00

Country and Gospel music legend, Randy Travis, offered up a public apology for his drunken arrest outside of a Baptist church in Sanger, Texas. Travis just had a fight with his girlfriend, and sat outside the church drinking a bottle of wine. Travis is a favorite over on the TBN (Trinity Broadcasting Network), and is a frequent guest on programs such as Pastor John Hagee's CORNERSTONE broadcast. His arrest outside of a church of all places might cause some at TBN to re-evaluate whether Travis is a liability to the network's reputation.

Although a popular figure in Gospel music, Travis has had a troubled life after he dropped out of school, began using alcohol and drugs and faced some early arrests for breaking and entering and other crimes.

Taylor Momsen In FHM Magazine

2012-02-07T14:19:00.000-08:00

Naughty 18 year old bad punk rock girl, Taylor Momsen, graces the cover of March issue of FHM. She's also interviewed inside. But, she's not entirely the bad girl brat that you think. Momsen claims that she works so much because of her strong work ethic that she usually only gets just 4 hours a day sleep. She loves working, and is so high-strung that she can work on this little sleep. And she's actually glad to be past GOSSIP GIRL, because music is her first love.

That's not a bad thing that Taylor is so much into her music. Her debut album from her group, Pretty Reckless, was a really great album of mostly hard rock that got a rave review here. Taylor has proven herself to be a great songwriter and singer both. Much of the album was written when she was just 16. And her band is playing one show after another for the next few weeks in both Canada and the U.S. Pretty Reckless is a great act, and their shows are well worth catching. Their schedule is posted over on their Website. Check it out.

DVD Review: CONTAGION

2012-02-07T13:19:00.000-08:00

CONTAGION is a well crafted, all star cast, medical science fiction disaster thriller expertly directed by Steven Soderbergh. Currently available on DVD, this fast paced thriller manages to closely unfold the tale of a serious modern day plague epidemic transferred from a bat, to a pig, to humans, with terrible consequences of around 26 million killed before a cure is found by scientists working around the clock to save lives.

Gwyneth Paltrow plays an especially shocking role in this film as an early victim of this horrible and fast spreading modern day plague. Her path towards her death by this plague are carefully watched via security tape footage by CDC health experts who are trying to understand the method of transmission for this illness.

And, other actors such as Laurence Fishburne and Kate Winslet back up a cast that includes Matt Damon, Marion Cotillard and Jude Law. All all expertly cast, and play essential roles in this well spun thriller. It is also very nice to Elliott Gould back on the big screen as well. The veteran 73 year old actor well plays a deeply concerned medical expert, often just with facial expressions of concern. That's the mark of a very fine actor there. Often without saying a word, his face does the acting.

CONTAGION may not be for everyone. But, it's a very fine film certainly worthy of renting or buying on DVD for a nice well stocked DVD library.

The Bottom Line: Not a bad film at all. This medical disaster thrill ride is a fascinating film that will draw you in. It's a nice new genre version reboot for the old disaster films of the 1970's, and manages to capture plenty of drama without the big Irwin Allen type gimmicks of the traditional disaster epic. ***(Three Stars, Good. Buy or rent this one. This is a very good movie here).

NBC Has High Hopes For "Super Monday"

2012-02-06T13:26:00.001-08:00

NBC is counting on the big debut of two of their best shows to pull up the ratings of the network. THE VOICE, NBC's answer to AMERICAN IDOL debuts tonight, along with the brand new and very highly anticipated new show, SMASH. SMASH is the new musical drama that stars AMERICAN IDOL runner-up Katherine McPhee as a woman vying for a lead role in a new Broadway play about the life of Marilyn Monroe. The show actually has been in development since 2009. where executive producer Steven Spielberg hoped to get it on Showtime. The original plan was for each season to involve a new Broadway musical under production.

SMASH features an amazing cast that includes veteran actresses such as Anjelica Huston, as well Debra Messing, the former star of NBC's big hit comedy, WILL & GRACE. Debra Messing has proven to be star power for NBC once before, and should certainly strike gold the network once again.

If shows like HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL or Glee have been big hits, then SMASH should be as well.

NBC should be very proud of both shows. They are certainly two of the best that they have to offer. Both should draw better ratings for the network, although CBS will certainly walk with the lion's share of Monday ratings with brand new top comedy episodes of TWO AND A HALF MEN and MIKE AND MOLLY .

CD Review; KISSES ON THE BOTTOM - Paul McCartney

2012-02-05T13:37:00.000-08:00

69 year old music legend Paul McCartney has released something of a retrospective album of songs his parents beloved sons that helped to influence his own musical direction. On one hand, it's a very nice collection of digitally recorded standards crafted by one of the world's greatest artists. On the other hand, the album is yet another disappointing entry from a musician who once was known for his groundbreaking music when he was part of The Beatles.

KISSES ON THE BOTTOM unfortunately reminds me of one of those type of albums that someone like Linda Ronstadt recorded of easy listening classics after her own music "jumped the shark" and she was no longer a top selling pop act. Certainly, KISSES ON THE BOTTOM is a nice enough album. But, rock fans just won't be all that happy with this effort. Paul McCartney fans really want more music that's up to his Beatles' days standards. And this sure isn't it.

There are a couple of new songs here by Paul McCartney. But, neither are his best creations ever written.

Fans of The Beatles and Paul McCartney will buy this album solely because it will complete their collections. But, let's hope that Paul McCartney has a few better albums that this in his future before he decides to retire from music.

KISSES ON THE BOTTOM is Paul McCartney's 15th solo album. But it's such a lightweight collection of songs compared to what the legend is really capable of. Paul McCartney's solo career includes major milestones such as BAND ON THE RUN, but also some junk albums such as WILD LIFE, the first Wings album that sounded more like a quickly recorded contractual obligation album that anything, with many of the songs recorded in just one take, and sure sounding like it. Even the presence of Denny Laine, the former leader of The Moody Blues, didn't seem to elevate this album to higher standards of excellence. In the scheme of all things, KISSES ON THE BOTTOM is another of Paul McCartney's weaker effort albums.

The Bottom Line: Far from the best Paul McCartney album ever released, although certainly far more polished than weak efforts such as WILD LIFE. **(Two Stars, Fair. If you need to complete your Paul McCartney collection, or are looking for a soft romantic music album suitable for St. Valentine's Day, then get this album. Otherwise, you might want to skip it).

BIG BANG THEORY Hauls In Record Ratings

2012-02-04T15:33:00.000-08:00

Who loves nerds? Well, just about everyone it seems! Just as I had predicted at the beginning of the season, THE BIG BANG THEORY would overtake TWO AND AND A HALF this year as the top comedy on TV. Well, this past Thursday, a brand new episode of THE BIG BANG THEORY drew in monster ratings to become one of the biggest hit comedy shows in TV history. The show drew in an awesome 16.3 million viewers, while the new comedy, ROB, actually weakened slightly to 11.2 million viewers. CBS also scored big with brand new episodes of PERSON OF INTEREST with 14.9 million viewers, while a new episode of THE MENTALIST drew a strong 13.5 million viewers.

NBC attempted to explain away the terrible ratings for 30 ROCK by claiming that some mistake in the listed TV description of the show caused many DVRs to malfunction. but regardless, ratings of around 3.2 million viewers are very poor. ABC fared better than lowly NBC, but overall, AMERICAN IDOL and FOX won the night at 17.1 viewers, with CBS hot on their heels.

Oh Christ, Roseanne Barr Running For President

2012-02-04T13:52:00.000-08:00

Loudmouthed, throughly annoying and outrageous comic, Roseanne Barr has announced that she's running for president, officially making this year's presidential campaign contest into a true three ring circus event. Barr is hoping to capture the Green Party nomination, which should at least be some comfort to both the Democrats and Republicans, because neither party really needs one more clown at this point.

Although Roseanne Barr is worth an estimated $80 million dollars, she claims to be a strong supporter of the "Occupy Movement", claiming that both political parties are owned by corporate America. The Greens are a leftist political party, which have brought together a strange mix of environmentalists, feminists and other anti-corporate leftists. Ralph Nader ran for president on this party ticket before. In the very close 2000 election, Ralph Nader likely helped to cost Al Gore the election because of votes he drew off in Florida. Nader's running mate that year was Peter Camejo, a former presidential candidate of the Trotskyite Communist organization, The Socialist Workers Party.

Some sources claim that Ralph Nader is leaning against running for president again in 2012, which might actually give a celebrity candidate like Roseanne Barr some hope of becoming the Green Party nominee, since the Green Party seems to draw from such a far out and not ready for prime-time pool of talent.

And if the 2012 presidential campaign won't be annoying enough, Roseanne Barr only promises to make the election even more ear-splitting and awful. Let's only hope to God that she isn't included in any of the debates. God help us!

Big Brother Starbucks Is Watching You

2012-02-03T13:45:00.000-08:00

Employees of Starbucks Coffee in Fort Belvair was recently shocked to discover that they were being secretly videotaped and charged for any food they consumed. One employee was actually fired for theft after drinking a $3.75 coffee and expected to pay for the drink.

This particular Starbucks actually falls under two sets of rules. It follows both Starbucks and Army and Airforce Exchange policies as well, since it sits on a military base. Because it is on a military base, the videotaping of employees is allowed because of tighter military security rules.

When author George Orwell penned 1984, I bet he never dreamed that Big Brother would be coming to Starbucks Coffee, or a coffee would be $3.75.

Book Review: THE RESCUER - Dara Horn

2012-02-02T15:11:00.000-08:00

Dara Horn has managed to capture one of the greatest little known stories in her very excellent nonfiction book about American journalist Varian Fry who might have saved as many as 4,000 persons from the Nazis during WWII. Fry was for all intents and purposes the American version of Oskar Schindler, the German businessman who was responsible for the rescue of so many Jews during WWII. Varian Fry was deeply troubled by the growing wave of Nazism in Europe, and when Germany went to war, systematically eliminating Jews throughout Europe, Fry formed a rescue committee that helped to save many artists, writers and intellectuals in Europe by helping to acquire both legal and illegal visas to get them to the United States or other safe havens. Fry had problems with anti-Semitic policies within the U.S. State Department at the time, only making his job far more difficult. And Britain also put sharp limits on immigration of Jews as well. Both the U.S. and Britain were very poor at allowing Jews to escape Nazi oppression, and both greatly contributed the huge number of deaths of Jews through their anti-immigration curbs at the time. The later creation of the state of Israel seemed to be the only real solution to allowing a homeland for Jews with open immigration policies to save them from historic oppression.

The long list of writers, artists and others that Fry helped to save is too long to list here. But, it includes some great names in culture. So many Jews were amazed that a White American Protestant, such as Fry, would help to save them , because their Nazi persecutors were Catholics, Lutherans and other supposed Christians. It was only after the war that the United States and other supposed Christian nations seemed to feel any great sense of guilt over allowing the brutal deaths of six million Jews in Europe. Church leaders in the Catholic Church and Protestant churches, didn't want to offend anyone during the war, and didn't really want to take sides or speak out against the horrible crimes against civilians in Europe, and did virtually nothing to stop the slaughter of so many Jews. Yet, today most churches self-proclaim themselves as being somehow guardians of morality or right and wrong in society, although most took a cowards path during the war or even in some cases actually supported the Nazis in some way. Spanish Fascist leader Franco ruled largely due to the support of both the Nazis and the Catholic Church, for example.

Dara Horn has managed an awesome read with her great book about Fry. It is a very compelling book that has been drawing five star reviews from in the public. You won't be able to put down this wonderful book. It is both deeply sad and damning book of the moral failures of some, and at the same time restores your faith that some Americans such as Varian Fry risked his life to make a real difference.

Art, music and literature is far richer today because Varian Fry wasn't afraid to step up and do the right thing, while many other Americans failed to save lives during the war, including in the American government.

This great book is available at Amazon including a speciial $1.99 Kindle version as well.

The Bottom Line: What a great work this book is. This is a great story that needed to be told. ****(Four Stars, Excellent. Buy a copy to love and cherish).

New Van Halen Album Out On Feb 7

2012-02-01T14:38:00.000-08:00

Big news in the music world is the return of the hard rock band Van Halen. Their brand new album, DIFFERENT KIND OF TRUTH, is set to debut on February 7. It will be the first new album by the band since 1998. And even bigger news is that legendary front-man David Lee Roth is back with the band as well, making his first album with the group since 1984. This will be their 12th studio album. It should be a real treat since David Lee Roth really defined the group's vocals at their peak. And certainly, Eddie Van Halen is a great guitarist.

DIFFERENT KIND OF TRUTH will be available in both standard and deluxe editions. But, you'll really want the deluxe edition because it includes legendary songs like "Panama" from something called "the downtown sessions.

NBA Star Allen Iverson Forced To Pay For Huge Jewelry Bill By Judge

2012-02-01T00:29:00.000-08:00

A judge has ordered that the bank account of NBA star Allen Iverson be garnished to pay for a giant jewelry bill. Iverson was said to have purchased nearly $900,000 in jewelry from a jewelry business, but only paid just $200,000 before he stopped making payments. The jeweler then had to take the basketball legend to court.....and we're not talking about a basketball court, to get the huge bill paid.

Most recently as 2011, Iverson had been playing in Turkey for a second tier international team. He had played with the Philadelphia 76ers twice in his career. At the age of 36, Iverson's best years are no doubt behind him. But, if the jewelry bill is any clue, maybe Iverson needs to keep playing in order to support the millionaire lifestyle he once enjoyed in his peak NBA days.

DVD Review: BUCKY LARSON: BORN TO BE A STAR

2012-01-31T15:50:00.000-08:00

Adam Sandler's Happy Madison film production company must have made BUCKY LARSON so that JACK AND JILL would look like CITIZEN KANE by comparison. BUCKY LARSON is so bad that even the most open of minds would be hard pressed to find one single redeeming feature for this simply awful movie which actually received a 0% critical approval over at ROTTEN TOMATOES. That's really bad.

Comic actor Nick Swardson is simply horrible here, playing the most annoying and stupid character in the recorded history of cinema. With a Dutch boy wig and obviously phony buck teeth, Bucky Larson is a simply an awful character. Swardson has been far better in any other film that he's been in than this film. He's the wrong actor in the wrong film here.

About the only single redeeming feature for BUCKY LARSON is his naive, but sincere friendship, with a waitress well played by Christina Ricci. Ricci actually looks cute and seems very nice here, giving this film at least one performance that seems acceptable. But, the other actors including Swardson, and most certainly, Don Johnson are just horrible here. Visiting a dentist for a root canal is probable a more enjoyable experience than attempting to sit through this awful film.

Bucky Larson is a naive and mentally slow man who finds out that his parents were once porn stars, who now believes that he is destined to be a star since he is the offspring of two "movie stars". A video that gets posted Online with Bucky with a small penis climaxing almost immediately becomes a big joke phenomenon, helping to propel him into a unique career in adult films, where other men with a small penis look like John Holmes or Ron Jeremy compared to Bucky's porn acting. But, this one joke pony sure isn't interesting or funny enough to carry along an entire feature length movie by any means. The entire premise of this movie is so terrible, and would probably have been better if the show was a little more sexy than it turned out as. Like A GOOD OLD FASHIONED ORGY, another bad sex comedy film, BUCKY LARSON falls miles below the expectations, and really fails to deliver.

My best advice is to make far better use of about 97 minutes of your life than watching this dreck. BUCKY LARSON is bad. Real bad!!!

At least former MAXIM model and actress.Meredith Giangrande has real nice boobs during one sexy instant. But, that's hardly enough to save this film.

The Bottom Line: This movie is a strong contender for the very worst movie ever made. Amazing that someone as talented as Adam Sandler wants this crap to be associated with his name. JACK & JILL sure looks like a masterpiece compared to this film. 1/2(One half of a star, or worse than poor. Hard to believe than perfectly good film was wasted making this film, when many poor filmmakers are going to bed unable to produce their own films because they can't afford film. But, those who produced this film were harshly punished for their efforts. It cost $10 million to produce, but only brought back just $2.5 million. I know that's a tough punishment. But, it fits the crime here).

Unbelievable! Honda Chooses Matthew Broderick Who Caused Fatal Automobile Accident To Promote Their Cars!

2012-01-30T14:11:00.000-08:00

File this under simply unbelievable, but those geniuses over at Honda have decided to cast actor Matthew Broderick in a FERRIS BUELLER reboot Super Bowl ad to promote their cars! This is simply unbelievable because Broderick was found guilty in an Irish courtroom of causing a fatal accident which killed a mother and a daughter while vacating over in Ireland back in 1987. Broderick spent four weeks in a hospital over in Belfast recovering from his serious injuries which included broken ribs and a collapsed lung as well as head injuries. Actress Jennifer Grey was also badly injured, leaving her with lifetime chronic pain from her back injuries.

But, it was the lives of two Irish women that were the most impacted when Matthew Broderick's rented BMW 316 veered into the wrong lane on an Irish country road, killing Anna Gallagher 30, and her mother Margaret Doherty,63. Earlier, an off duty policeman had chided Broderick, telling him that his route was "just plain stupid" on the Irish roads, and offered to escort him to a more proper path. But, Broderick refused to accept this policeman's help. Later, Broderick might have got confused which side of the road to drive on and drove head on into the two women, killing both, and seriously injuring Jennifer Grey and himself.

Broderick's lawyer claimed that the actor had no recollection of events as part of his defense, in an attempt to avoid more serious charges which could have put him in prison for 5 years. Broderick finally was able to plead to a lesser vehicular offense and pay a fine, avoiding the possible prison sentence for dangerous driving. Broderick has since attempted to reach out to the family of those he killed, however many in this Irish town felt that the verdict was a total miscarriage if justice, only proving how a walthy celebrity can avoid justice by hiring good lawyers.

I suppose O.J. Simpson wasn't available, so Honda went with a second bad choice to promote their cars. But, not too many products would want to associated with some celebrity who killed someone. Apparently, Honda just doesn't care.

CD Review: The Doors L.A. WOMAN 40

2012-01-29T14:30:00.000-08:00

The Doors finally released their long awaited L.A. WOMAN 40 two cd set, this past week which included nine previously unreleased tracks including seven L.A. WOMAN outtake versions of songs including "The Changeling", "Love Her Madly", "Rider On The Storm" and more. One completely unknown song, "She Smells So Nice" is a rough piece, but nonetheless a rare gem for collectors, as well is the rough version of "Rock Me". These two rarities were discovered while searching through the master tapes.

Normally, The Doors have been able to get some release out by November just in time for the Christmas season, however their L.A. Woman 40 has been one of their longest delayed projects in memory. But, for Christmas The Doors did manage to get a four 7inch vinyl single special edition set out, largely because guitarist Robbie Krieger is a big fan of the sound of vinyl. But, at nearly $50 a pop, only collectors are likely to shell out this sort of money for four 45rpm records. 45's aren't always known for having the best sound quality, so hopefully these singles are of good quality But, on March 2, a two disc vinyl album, L.A. WOMAN: THE WORKSHOP SESSIONS, made from high quality 180gram vinyl, will be released to satisfy those vinyl connoisseurs out there. That's probably one of the better vinyl releases in late memory.

The Doors also have a new DVD and BluRay release of MR. MOJO RISIN': THE STORY OF L.A. WOMAN which is a pretty fair documentary of the band. There's plenty of great historic Doors footage, along with many recent band interviews.

L.A. WOMAN worked so well as an album for many reasons, although the recording sessions were very troubled. Jim Morrison felt done with The Doors, and was ready to move on. His drinking was so bad that he was difficult to deal with. Yet, his cigarette and alcohol ravished voice had a well worn blues quality that made L.A. WOMAN such a gem. L.A. WOMAN was much more of a blues album than other Doors album. Elvis Presley's bass guitar musician, Larry Scheff, provided the album an additional guitar. The album had something of a Chicago blues band quality to it. But, the three musicians from The Doors, Ray Manzarek, Robbie Krieger and John Densmore were also beginning to look ahead to a future without Jim Morrison, and son began work on jazz influenced OTHER VOICES album. "Down On The Farm", which was written by by Robbie Krieger supposedly existed during the L.A. WOMAN sessions, however there is a rumor that Jim Morrison didn't want to include it on the L.A. WOMAN album. It is not known whether any outtake of Morrison doing the vocals for this song exist or not. But, L.A. WOMAN was Jim Morrison's swan-song album. He seemed tired and burnt-out, and was ready to move on from The Doors. He died shortly after moving to Paris, however he did record a few rarities over there in Paris, where his voice sounded fresh again, just like the old days of The Doors. The break seemed like it was doing him good. But, then there was that shocking news of his sudden death which forever silenced his unique voice and poetry.

The Doors were the first recording act to have eight certified platinum albums in a row, as well as having a star on Hollywood's famous Walk Of Fame. Several years ago, rapper Jay Z even decide to sample, "Five To One" for his song "Takeover". The Doors will continue to be a great influence on American culture for many more generations. The dark poetry of Jim Morrison continues to impress generations and never seems to grow outdated.

DVD Review: SINNERS AND SAINTS

2012-01-29T13:30:00.000-08:00

SINNERS AND SAINTS is a rather generic, but very gritty police thriller set in New Orleans, where two homicide detectives investigate a series of very horrific murders. Apparently, the film went quickly to DVD and BluRay after it was bypassed by too many theaters, although the film has gotten some reasonably strong audience critical approval. Some critics such as Harry Knowles from AIN'T IT COOL NEWS gave this film good reviews. Director William Kaufman did help to co-write a reasonably good crime tale here.

The film does also manage to use some actors like Johnny Strong from BLACK HAWK DOWN, very effectively;y here. Tom Berenger is also in the cast, along with Jolene Blalock from STAR TREK ENTERPRISE.

And I suppose that since some TV crime shows have stepped up their gritty content material so much over the last few years, most notably LAW & ORDER:SVU and CRIMINAL MINDS, there is a market for movies such as SINNERS AND SAINTS to push the grit envelope even further. But, even in those terms it seemed especially violent for the crime victims to be set repeatedly on fire, then extinguisher over and over until they died in this movie. Beyond mere murder, this was nothing short of horrific torture. Where do producers think of such horrifying violence as this? But, if you have a strong stomach for violence, this isn't too bad of a crime thriller here.

The Bottom Line: A tough as nails gritty crime story with horrific violence that will likely haunt sensitive persons for days, but fine for those who love strong police stories. *** (Three Stars Good, a better than fair, although somewhat formula police/crime thriller. The film did get a four star review from at least one critic).

AMERICAN IDOL In Close Ratings Race With BIG BANG THEORY and ROB

2012-01-28T15:35:00.000-08:00

CBS scored a technical win over AMERICAN IDOL this last Thursday among that coveted 18-49 age demographic. However, AMERICAN IDOL did manage to capture an overall estimated 16.99 viewers compared to THE BIG BANG THEORY which drew an estimated 15,.96 million viewers. ROB was the third strongest show on Thursday with an estimated 11.58 million viewers, or nearly four times as many viewers as PARKS & RECREATION on NBC.

Rob Schneider has to be pretty pleased that he finally has a hit comedy associated with him. Usually, the word "hit", and Rob Schneider usually never appear in the same sentence. Part of the appeal of the show is the funny relationship he has with the Mexican family of his Mexican wife, giving the show some appeal among the growing segment of Latin viewers. The show is becoming far more evenly written after after a jerky pilot episode that was critically panned. CBS is already proclaiming the show to be a "hit" in advertising. Another good sign is that the show's ratings have stabilized at the 11.5 million mark. proving that the show has found an audience. Signs look good at this point for CBS to possibly renew the show beyond the probable 8 episodes they bought.

Thurday was very good for both CBS and FOX, but terriblle news for NBC. ABC's reruns of WIPEOUT, GREY'S ANATOMY and PRIVATE PRACTICE also fared very poorly as well. ABC pretty conceded last thursday to the big CBS and FOX.

Outrageous McDonald's Business Trademark Ripoffs

2012-01-26T15:23:00.000-08:00

Around the world some countries seem to take American trademark and copyrights far less seriously than here. That has only helped to spur more than a few really funny ripoffs of the famous McDonald's trademark yellow arches and other trademarks of the company. The Website, DAMN COOL PICTURES, posted these funny photos. Check out their great Website for many more laughable McDonald's ripoff photos and other great funny stuff.

KILLER KARAOKE Seriously Injures Contestant

2012-01-26T14:25:00.000-08:00

Things sure went wrong on the set of a new upcoming singing competition game, KILLER KARAOKE, when a female contestant fell off the stage and broke many bones in her lower back after she was sprayed with water. The new singing competition show, which bis likely to air on TruTV in early 2012, involves contestants attempting to perform songs while there are attempts by the show to disrupt their singing. The object of the game is for a contestant to be able to perform despite water or other disruptions to their performance. It is based off a popular British TV show, SING IF YOU CAN.

JACKASS star Steve-O is the host of the new show, which already has it's first lawsuit because of the serious injuries to the female contestant.

That's one heck of a start to a show. You haven't even aired one, and you're already being sued.

Is This A Joke?

2012-01-26T13:39:00.000-08:00

A priest, a rabbi and a minister walk into a bar. The bartender says, "Is this a joke?". ----That's it, that's all she wrote. I heard this one this week. I suppose there just might be barely enough here to meet the legal definition of a joke according the international office of weights and measurements. And I think it was Justice Potter Stewart who once famously said, "I know a joke when I see it". Yet, somehow it seems like there should be more.

I also wonder about a quick little one like, "I once lived in a town so small, the post office had a screen door". Is that legally a joke or not?

I can't help but look to other more developed examples such as: A mother and her young toddler son were down at the beach, when suddenly a huge ocean wave sweeps the poor child out to sea. The mother pleads with Heaven, "Lord, Lord. Please bring my son back. I'll never ask for anything ever again". God must have been moved by the mother's anguished cries to Heaven, so suddenly a second wave from the ocean sweeps the little boy back safely the to shore. The mom looks at the boy, and then looks back up to Heaven and says, "Yeah, but he had a hat!". To me, that's a joke. More development.

So the question remains, is the opening example a joke?

The Demi Moore Crisis

2012-01-25T15:10:00.000-08:00

After her marriage to Ashton Kutcher broke down, the life of Demi Moore has gone down a real spiral. It all seemed to reach a real head with her hospitalization this week, which has only fueled more rumored stories about anorexia, possible drug or alcohol abuse, or some serious health problems. But, many reports now claim that she was having some sort of epileptic seizure. However, she hasn't been publicly been known to have such a condition, so expect far more speculation about her condition to continue until she comes clean.

PEOPLE MAGAZINE now claims in a new story that Demi Moore will only be forced to be public about the true nature of all her problems. Now, that her serious problems have become such big news. Soon , the true nature of all of her demons will be an open book.

Joe Paterno Dead At 85

2012-01-22T15:12:00.000-08:00

Penn State's legendary coach, Joe Paterno has died as a result of his aggressive fast spreading lung cancer. It's a very sad end to this legendary figure who to leave his post at Penn State earlier in 2011 after a major sex scandal rocked the school's football program. Paterno was the school's head coach for 46 years, and a well loved figure. When he was forced into retirement by the assistant coach sex scandal involving Jerry Sandusky, students held protests on the campus.

There were stories that Paterno had consulted a lawyer because he might be possibly charged for not reporting knowledge of the sex scandal involving Sandusky, which seemed like terrible news. But, then more news came when it was disclosed that Paterno was suffering from aggressive and fast growing lung cancer. But, much of the public dismissed this news as a probable attempt to use a health issue to delay any investigation into Paterno's role in allowing the Jerry Sandusky sex scandal to continue.

Regardless of the serious scandal at the school, the death of Joe Paterno is deeply sad. And no doubt his sadness about the events played at least some role in his sad death. He was a great college sports legend, and should really be remembered for what he did for the game and his school.

Strong Faith In God Aids The Recovery Of Lauren Scruggs

2012-01-21T15:33:00.000-08:00

The strong faith in God of the family of Lauren Scruggs seems to be playing a critical role in her recovery efforts. The fashion blogger and GOSSIP GIRL wardrobe intern was critically injured in a aircraft ground accident last month when she accidentally walked into the plane's propeller. She apparently couldn't hear the pilot's warning over the engine noise. And some aviation sources questioned why the pilot allowed passengers to exit the plane while the engine was still running. The terrible accident resulted in the loss of the fashion blogger's left hand, left eye and horrific head and brain injuries. It is remarkable to see her fast recovery from such a terrible life threatening accident.

But, with the support of her loving family, Lauren Scruggs has survived this accident and even took to blogging her many fans and supporters this past week, thanking them for their support.

The fashion blogger no doubt had many prayers from her many fans as well. And faith will no doubt play a critical role in the difficult adjustment to her new life. We certainly wish her the very best.

Former President George H. W. Bush And Actor Terrence Howard Share Special Screening Of RED TAILS

2012-01-21T13:38:00.000-08:00

George Lucus had to finance the $100 million dollar RED TAILS war film about the highly decorated Tuskegee Airmen all by himself after big money in Hollywood doubted a film with an all-Black lead cast would make enough money. Lucas felt that this great story needed to be told. And strong box office numbers on Friday, where the film grossed $6 million dollars seem to be confirming that George Lucus did the right thing by producing this film which is becoming highly acclaimed and earning strong critical approval. The film is so good that the White House set up a special screening of the film, and former President George H. W. Bush attended a special screening with lead actor Terrence Howard as well. Howard said that the former president just loved the film. At just age 18, Bush became the youngest Navy pilot and was shot down by the Japanese. Bush's wife actually cried during the screening, because she was so touched.

With so many big box office failures this past Summer, including COWBOYS & ALIENS and the new version of CONAN, the purse strings that finance the films in Hollywood have grown more tight. Certainly, it made some producers in Hollywood look very bad when they refused to fund such a significant story with an all-Black lead cast, but the economy is having a huge impact on Hollywood. More and more, the movies that are being made are on a smaller budget because it just seems to make more economic sense right now. Huge budget films are a big risk right now as movie goers don't always want to spend a lot on every film right now.

As the real Tuskegee Airmen diminish in number from old age, George Lucas didn't want to wait any longer to retell their inspiring story of this elite group of pilots, who had to combat not only the Axis, but racism in the military as well. Many of these former airmen went on to become doctors, lawyers, educators or top professionals. They were truly an elite force of very intelligent men who risked their lives, where not one single bomber was lost while under their escort. It was an amazing record of success considering the amount of danger involved.

Certainly, George Lucus is going to look closely at the box office numbers from this weekend on Sunday evening and hope that it made financial sense to make this great movie. That's one heck of a standard, but the new economics of Hollywood will probably make big production, but significant, films like RED TAILS more of a rarity for the near future. Right now it just makes more economic sense to produce a cheap comedy, and score an acceptable enough box office weekend. But, such a standard will hardly produce many movie classics.

A Con Man For Congress?

2012-01-20T14:50:00.000-08:00

Congress is drawing legendary bad approval numbers from a weary public, and a special election in Oregon isn't making voters much better about the dismal state of Congress. Congressman David Wu had to resign his office in disgrace after months of very weird personal conduct including some serious allegations of improper sexual conduct after he was accused of making unwanted sexual advances on the teenage daughter of an important campaign donor. That's one heck of a way to repay a favor, huh? Wu had previously been accused of a sexual assault on a former girlfriend while he attended Stanford, but survived politically when this old story resurfaced in 2004 three weeks before the election. Voters had hoped the problems with Wu were in the past. Apparently they certainly weren't.

In the last election Wu defeated Tualatin businessman Rob Cornilles by a handy margin. This year, Cornilles hopes to take Wu's old seat by selling himself as a successful businessman who has supposedly created 500 jobs according to his campaign claims. In his campaign ads, Cornilles is photographed in large warehouse with busy activity. It's all set to make the false impression that this big and busy company somehow is the big 500 employee company that Cornilles is bragging about in his campaign ads. To hear Cornilles describe himself, you'd expect him to be the next Bill Gates. Unfortunately all of this appears to be a complete myth. Cornilles is hardly the success that he claims to be.

It appears according to state tax records that Cornilles has just 6 employees for his Game Face, a sports ticket telemarketing business. And Cornilles no longer even even has this business registered with the state of Oregon either. Voters are probably scratching their heads how some telemarketing business that lists just 6 employees is somehow represented as a 500 employee company in Cornilles ads. Even worse, it appears that Game Face no longer even has a business office, and the six employees of Game Face largely work from their homes as telemarketers. The big company featured in the ads that Cornilles runs apparently isn't Game Face, but some other business. Nothing is as Cornilles claims.

Even worse for Cornilles is that he run some sort of telemarketing training school course for a while charging persons around $1400 to be able to take telemarketing jobs. That telemarketing training school course is now closed down. But, some former employees of Cornilles filed labor complaints claiming that they weren't paid any wages for 11 weeks working for him as a telemarketer, and further had to pay about $1400 for his telemarketing training course.

Cornilles also has had some back tax problems as well, owing the IRS around $83,000 in unpaid taxes. He claims that this was the result of some problems with a past bookkeeper, yet all of these problems only seem to point to someone nearly as questionable as David Wu, who he hopes to replace.

Cornilles talks a good game. But, the reality is that he constructs some mythical world for his Game Face business. He claims to be some huge job creator, yet former "employees" file complaints with the state for unpaid work as telemarketer of all things. And Cornilles is hardly any self made man, as much of his claimed wealth is actually all money that belongs to his wife. He's a former small time actor, who know how to sell himself. But, it appears that nothing is what it seems with him.

Meanwhile , who wants to pay $1400 to learn to be a telemarketer? Who wants to buy some ocean front property in Arizona?

Disgraced Glam Rocker Gary Glitter May Be Attempting A Comeback

2012-01-19T13:26:00.001-08:00

During the 1970's Gary Glitter was once a hot item among the glam and glitter rock scene over in the UK, competing with T.Rex, Slade, The Sweet. Mud, Alvin Stardust, David Bowie and other acts to top the British charts. Gary Glitter always seemed like one part Elvis, one part nightclub performer, with primal sounding electric raw edged hits like "Rock And Roll(Parts One And Two)", "I Didn't Know I Loved You To I Saw You Rock And Roll", "Do You Wanna Touch Me(Oh Yeah)" and many more singles that hit either #1 or at least the top ten on the UK charts. Gary Glitter seemed to have it made as really major UK recording act. But, in his later years following the end of the glam and glitter rock craze in the UK, Gary Glitter's life began to fall apart. Not only did he develop some heart problems, but twice he served time in prison for sexual offenses involving children. He last imprisonment was over in Vietnam, where he was convicted of sex crimes involving two children, one of which was a young girl just 11 years of age. It was a disgraceful end to a career of a once huge UK recording act.

Gary Glitter could have received the death penalty of a firing squad if he had been convicted of rape of a child over in Vietnam, however he was convicted of lesser sex crimes, where he served a little more than two years in prison before being deported from the country and banned from entry into many more countries as a registered sex offender. It was a far cry from a top British performer who even toured with The Who performing concert shows.

Now, it appears that this disgraced convicted criminal may be attempting a comeback of all things. There is an outrage that he has apparently opened up a new Twitter account as a first step toward a possible comeback , creating a backlash now known as "Get Glitter Off Twitter" among some outraged persons in the public. There's a lot of people who just want Gary Glitter to go away.

But, all of this creates an interesting dilemma. Gary Glitter was a top entertainer and a major name in British rock for many years, and a top competitor to the other big name acts such as Marc Bolan's T.Rex or David Bowie. He was a great performer who sold a lot of records. But in his alter ego, as the real life Paul Francis Gadd, he is a very sick man who has committed some terrible crimes. He is stuck in that strange position like someone like a Roman Polanski, who is respected for his works, but hated for his sordid personal life.

Maybe, Paul Francis Gadd is hoping for some redemption by attempting a comeback. He was indeed a great entertainer as Gary Glitter. His "Rock And Roll(Part Two)" is often included in many NBA games, where this primal sounding and chest thumping anthem seems like a perfect rush of testosterone. But, also perhaps, Gadd just doesn't have a clue how bad his crimes were were. Perhaps there are some things so bad, that a comeback and redemption with the public is just not possible. At 67, Gadd should probably have the common sense to realize that the train left the station many years ago, and just be satisfied that he created much better music than he did a personal life.

Wikipedia Goes Black In 24 Hour Protest Against Internet Censorship Legislation

2012-01-18T12:23:00.000-08:00

Wikipedia is making a powerful statement against two controversial proposed pieces of legislation in Congress, SOPA and PIPA, which are aimed are combating Online piracy by blacking out their website today. The White House opposes the legislation which is apparently being advanced by a small number of powerful entertainment interests to stem foreign websites such as the Swedish based PIRATE BAY website. However, many Internet freedom interests argue that both SOPA and PIPA are like using a sledgehammer to stop Internet piracy, which is better combated by more careful monitoring efforts by Websites to respect the copyright interests of others.

Further complicating the whole Internet piracy issues are many video posting Websites such as YouTube, which allow both individuals as well as companies to post materials on that site. For example, it is a known fact that the producers of SNL sometimes post deleted segments on YouTube that didn't fit into the 90 minute time schedule of the program on YouTube as a service to fans. This is material that the producers of SNL wanted to share with the public. Other times, either NBC or the producers of SNL have demanded that YouTube remove some videos that public viewers of YouTube have posted on their own. This leads to a complicated mix of authorized and unauthorized videos on many Websites such as YouTube and other sites where both businesses and viewers both post materials.

Some foreign Websites and those dealing in adult content make the problem of Internet piracy or the occasional posting of highly controversial content even more complicated. Some Websites have registered domain servers in places such as the Bahamas or the Czech Republic, where both businesses and individuals both post materials on the sites, where copyright violations or some extremely offensive material may exist on the sites for some time before both the material or the link are removed. It appears that much of the motivation of Congress to combat Online piracy appears at shutting down American access to copyright violating websites overseas where lax rules or business procedures allow films, music or software to be too freely exchanged on pirate websites. However, sites like YouTube and others have proven that using a careful scalpel to remove some content that violates someone's copyright can be removed carefully by request, Every website worldwide just needs to have a clear link where these issues can be addressed to the site, and the staff needs to have some oversight over the website as well.

Some Internet file sharing or video posting sites do a very fine job keeping both copyright violating materials or highly offensive materials off their sites. YouTube has policies that remove highly offensive materials. Further, one adult video file site with a server in Greece publishes a list of sources that no one is allowed to post materials from. Some of these sources are banned because that material is either too highly controversial or offensive, while other sources are interested in keeping their copyrighted material off the site. This careful self-policing of the site seems to work as a good role model where this site appears to be one of the most responsible among the numerous sites on the Internet where video files can be posted by both business as well as users.

Another complication is that some material falls into the public domain after a number of years, so some posting of some entire movies that were once considered copyrighted is now permitted with these films. However, it appears that this public domain consideration doesn't seem to work with some materials such as music, where it appears that a copyright still is valid. So for example, the catalog of The Beatles doesn't become a public domain after a number of years unlike some grade B horror film.

Copyright law is complicated, where there exists American law and foreign laws as well as international copyright agreements. But, the solution of Congress in SOPA or PIPA are just too heavy handed of solutions. But, it should be agreed that any website that allows video or file sharing needs to more carefully monitor their sites to make easy access by a copyright holder to request the immediate removal of some copyright violating materials..

The solution by some in Congress to force the blackout of some sites because some possible copyright violations may exist is simply too strong of tool to protect some copyright holders. More careful steps to protect copyright holders work far better, and protect the free flow of information on the Internet.

Betty White Is 90 Today

2012-01-17T02:11:00.000-08:00

Comic actress Betty White hits the big 9-0 today, making her one of the oldest actors still active. She is also the last surviving member of the very popular sitcom, THE GOLDEN GIRLS as well. White still manages to make plenty of guest appearances and acting gigs despite her advanced age, joining Ernest Borgnine, 94, in that small elite group of active actors over the age of 90. Betty White is also a successful author as well, having written a total of six books that have all done very well. In 2010, she was also named Entertainer Of The Year by the respected press organization, The Associated Press.

Betty White is also the producer of OFF THEIR ROCKERS, a new NBC reality based comedy show, making her one of the oldest active producers as well.

We at Wizbang Pop join together with everyone wishing Betty White a very happy 9-0. Here's to the many years of laughter that you provided us, and to many more years of laughs. You're a true treasure, Betty. We can't thank you enough for all that you've given us.

Goodbye Twinkies?: Hostess Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection

2012-01-16T14:13:00.000-08:00

Could those famous Twinkies snacks disappear forever? Well, it seems that the parent company that makes these favorite snacks for the last 87 years is in deep financial trouble. The Texas based Interstate Brands Corporation has perhaps close to $1 billion in debts, with only as little as $500 million in assets. The Irving, Texas based company is battling several vexing demons right now. A health conscious public is bucking traditional snacks like Twinkies, Ho Hos, Donettes and cup cakes, and turning to yogurt and fruits and vegetables and turning against these traditional snacks that used to be a part of many packed lunches for generations.

Old labor agreements are haunting the company as well. The companies biggest cost liability appears to be an old labor agreement with the Teamsters Union to pay into a retirement fund for the company's retired drivers. The Teamsters Union wants Hostess to survive, and is attempting to find ways to work with the union in a common effort to save jobs.

Hostess is also a smaller player in the snack industry compared to bigger companies such as Sara Lee and Kraft. These larger companies are better able to adapt to new market changes by acquiring other companies or by developing new product lines unlike Hostess which chooses to market their same old traditional line of products year after year.

Hostess also is the maker of Wonder Bread, another troubled product line. White bread sales continue to tumble as wheat and whole grain breads gain in popularity, making Wonder only another troubled brand name for the company. With so many product lines shrinking in sales, you only have to wonder why the company doesn't develop some new products that have a growth pattern instead of trying to battle to be the last man out with a line of products that lose more and more sales each year.

Hostess might have to take a clue from how some other companies became defunct. During the 1950's, the merger of Nash and Hudson automobiles became the world's largest corporate merger when they formed American Motors Corporation, snubbing Studebaker and Packard, who also wanted to join as well. For many years the company ran successfully under the leadership of George Romney and others. But, but by 1970, a new car, the Hornet, was to become the basis for most of the companies cars until the end of the company in 1987, when Chrysler bought out the assets of the finally troubled company in order to acquire the Jeep line of vehicles. Many years before 1987, AMC really needed some new car models, but really lacked the money to develop a new small car line that heavily borrowed from both the Ramblers of the 1960's as well as a 1967 Cavalier show car the company developed. AMC attempted to do face-lifts on the old Hornet line of cars year after year, as sales slowly ebbed downward because enough wise buyers realized that a 1987 car was still just a face-lifted variation of the 1970 and early cars. If Hostess can't develop new products to keep up with current market demands for more healthy snacks, then the company is probably not going to stay around much longer.

Hostess claims that they have secured $75 million in financing to continue to operate for now. But, unless the company develops some new products to go with their traditional line of products, the company's future remains very bleak. Someone must really like Twinkies an awful lot to make a loan to a company with these sort of financial problems.

David Letterman Getting Ready To Sign New Contract

2012-01-14T16:03:00.000-08:00

David Letterman is getting ready for a milestone. He's getting ready to sign a new two-year deal with CBS that will put him past Johnny Carson in the number of shows he's done. Johnny Carson was David Letterman's mentor, and Carson certainly wanted Letterman to take over the TONIGHT SHOW helm, but some heads at NBC wanted Jay Leno instead. This led to some bad blood over at NBC where Letterman eventually sought employment elsewhere after Jay Leno was chosen over him. Letterman later signed a terrific deal with CBS for a show at 11;30. However, at times it seems like David Letterman might have been ready to retire. A few years back, he faced some serious heart problems. But, a scad of friends filled in for him as he recovered from bypass surgery. Some times Letterman just seems like he's bored, like some guy just looking at his watch wondering when he can leave. But, in the end, Letterman is planning on at least two more years at CBS. He might just want to beat Carson's record, then call it a day.

Apparently, Craig Ferguson's contract is also up for renewal as well. He's a surprising good host of his late night talk show which is filmed on a shoestring budget, but carried solely on the back of his own strengths as a comic. No doubt, Craig Ferguson will also sign up again as well. If Letterman should decide to move on after next two years, Craig Ferguson might just have that huge opportunity offered to him. Likewise, Jimmy Fallon is in the same good position over at NBC. If Leno decides to move on, you know that NBC will certainly ask Jimmy Fallon to move up. He's done a masterful job with Conan O'Brien's old show, while Conan's show over at TBS is still suffering from softening ratings.

Heather Locklear Still In The Hospital Following Emergency

2012-01-13T14:09:00.000-08:00

After reportedly mixing alcohol and some prescription drugs according to some national newswire reports, actress Heather Locklear was rushed to the hospital. Today, she remains in the ICU under watch, although all news sources claim that she isn't in any danger. Likely the emergency was just an accident and not some part of a failed suicide. TMZ claims that her family wants to get her into rehab because of prescription drug abuse issues.

But, the important news is that the beautiful 50 year old actress should be just fine. She is best known for her roles in TV's MELROSE PLACE and the comedy, SPIN CITY, where she co-starred with actor Charlie Sheen.

Beyonce's Hospital Security Controversy

2012-01-12T12:57:00.000-08:00

The birth of Beyonce's baby was a huge event at the Lennox Hill Hospital, however several patients weren't happy about all the extra security at the hospital, and filed some complaints with New York state health officials claiming that the extra security made visiting their new babies difficult to impossible. But, since the infamous kidnapping of the Lindbergh baby, many celebrities have since taken extra precautions to protect their new babies and small children from possible kidnappers. Beyonce is a major celebrity, and the birth of her new baby could have only invited a possible ransom incident if tight security measures weren't taken.

Beyonce and Jay Z had a brand new room that they could stay in at the Lennox Hill Hospital that was set up similar to a luxury hotel suite. This not only afforded them tight security, but additional comfort as well. Some reports claim that the couple paid $1.3 million to rent an entire hospital wing to provide them good security. However, that report has been disputed. It appears the new luxury rooms for VIP patients provide plenty of good security features for celebrity patients, insuring them a safe stay at the hospital keeping away both crazed fans as well as possible crime. The couple did pay a 10 man security team to protect both the mother and baby during the stay at the hospital, but New York state health officials didn't find that this was a bad thing. If anything, it only made the hospital stay for all of the patients in the maternity ward much safer it seems.

One contractor made a formal complaint to state health authorities claiming that access to his young twins was greatly limited by the enhanced security measures for Beyonce and her new baby, but the state investigation didn't find any merit to this complaint.

TMZ, which allows us use of their resources for our news-service, provided this photo of the luxury hospital room that Beyonce used. It was charged at the standard rates, where allegations of the couple renting an entire wing or ward of the hospital are unfounded.

Whatever Happened To Mark Linn-Baker From PERFECT STRANGERS

2012-01-11T15:20:00.000-08:00

Before there was Steve Urkel, there was Cousin Larry(Mark Linn-Baker) and Balki(Bronson Pinchot). The popular comedy from Miller-Boyett Productions became the anchor block for many years of family comedies on ABC when it was moved into the coveted 8pm Friday time slot. In later years, FAMILY MATTERS was to replace PERFECT STRANGERS. But, PERFECT STRANGERS got a long eight year run on ABC in various time slots on the network eventually becoming the beginning of a new Friday TGIF block of programming at ABC.

Never high art, but PERFECT STRANGERS managed to set up one funny episode afeter another each week, where Larry Appleton became the butt of absurd problems caused by his distant cousin from a small unknown Greek-like Island, Balki who moves in with him. But, t was enough of a premise to hang some jokes on. PERFECT STRANGERS was indeed a funny show, and a very nice family comedy for the kids. And the later inclusion of actresses Melanie Wilson and Rebecca Arthur provided a few sexy moments to entertain dad too.

The awesome comic talents of Bronson Pinchot were obvious. He was the real star here, with his talent for absurd ethnic characters such as Balki. But, Mark Linn-Baker was a pretty fair comic straight man as well here. His long-suffering at the hands of Balki provided great comic conflict for the show. Mark Linn-Baker is now 57. He's tried his hand at many projects since PERFECT STRANGERS, but none has matched the success of this show. It was his high water mark of success.

As an young actor, Mark Linn-Baker's first big break was supposed to be Woody Allen's MANHATTAN in 1979, however most of his scenes were later cut from the final film while it edited. This was an unfortunate blow to the young actor, but nonetheless, Baker got a second big opportunity playing the straight man to Peter O'Toole's eccentric character in MY FAVORITE YEAR in 1982. This role probably served to sell the actor as a perfect role for the long suffering straight man to play opposite the outrageous character provided by Bronson Pinchot in PERFECT STRANGERS.

Since the end of the eight year run of PERFECT STRANGERS, Mark Linn-Baker has gone back to his stage actor roots, and has been cast in his sixth Broadway production in his career. In 2011 he was cast in Woody Allen's, RELATIVELY SPEAKING, completing a full circle of work for Allen during his career.

But, I'm personally waiting for the day when they make a WWII movie in which a heinous German officer threatens a prisoner with the lines, "Do you like Mark Linn-Baker? Do you like him very much? Who played cousin Larry on that show with Balki, PERFECT STRANGERS. Then you will sign the papers". Woody Allen take note. You don't have to thank me.

Workers At Chinese XBox Factory Threaten Mass Suicide

2012-01-11T14:31:00.000-08:00

You think your job is bad? Workers at a FoxConn factory in China are so unhappy about their pay and other conditions at a factory that builds the XBox for export to the U.S. and other world destinations, that the workers are threatening mass suicide unless pay and other worker conditions improve. For it's part, Microsoft claims they are "investigating " the worker demands.

The Foxconn plant also builds products for export for Apple and for Sony as well as other companies.

The same plant has had past problems with worker suicides before. New workers are required to sign a pledge not to kill themselves by the employer. In 2010, 14 workers took their lives due to poor pay and poor working conditions at the FoxConn plant. Workers generally are paid around $146 dollars a month to work long hours with hazardous chemicals and other poor worker conditions. Most XBox bundles range between $300-$400 in price at discounters in the U.S. Most of the workers who have killed themselves range from 17 to 23 years of age.

Well gee, all of this sure makes playing with THE SIMS seem like a little bit of a bummer!

DVD Review: RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES

2012-01-11T12:19:00.000-08:00

Last time for the fun of it, we deliberately reviewed a very bad film. But, not this time. RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES is not only the best film that we've reviewed so far this year, but probably for all of 2011 as well. What a fantastic way to breathe new life into this series.

During scientific research to find a cure for Alzheimer's disease, animal research accidentally improves the intelligence of some apes creating one super-ape who eventually leads other apes to rebellion and freedom. While the new virus injections only help apes to become more intelligent, but later the same virus appears fatal to humans setting up a premise for future episodes of this new reboot of the PLANET OF THE APES series. The last few moments of this film remind you of the devastation of a nuclear war, as a pattern map shows this new virus sweeping throughout the world, dramatically reducing the human population.

THE PLANET OF THE APES is a very durable series, first popular in that late 60's and into the 70's. Then there was the new remake with Marc Wahlberg a few years ago which was a very good film. Now comes this new episode in what will become a new reboot of the series for the future. And what an excellent start this is.

British character actor Andy Serkus has been nominated for numerous supporting actor awards for his excellent role acting as Caesar, here, which was digitally created using performance capture technology from Wetra Digital, which has developed some new exterior shoot technology making this film possible. Previously, this technology has been confined to a sound stage. The effects are awesome. And Andy Serkus provides just the right actor to pull off a convincing Caesar. Critics such as Roger Ebert really liked this film as well.

What a great science fiction film RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES is. This is a very good movie.

The Bottom Line: An excellent new reboot to the PLANET OF THE APES series. Very good acting and awesome digital technology both. I hated to see this film end. I can't wait for the second chapter after viewing this fine film. *** 1/2 stars(Three And A Half Stars, or better than good. Nearly a Four Star film. Certainly buy or rent this one!).

Troubled Actress Kristy McNichol Comes Out As Gay

2012-01-09T15:12:00.000-08:00

During the 1980's, Kristy McNichol was a popular actress on two TV shows, FAMILY and then late,r EMPTY NEST. But, then it was revealed that serious issues with bipolar disorder forced her to give up acting by the 1990's. She was also devastated by the loss of a close female friend to cancer. And, in 1992, McNichol had a near fatal scuba diving accident. Now McNichol is back in the news as coming out that she's gay.

McNichol's life has been through so many stages. It seems like yet another tragic story of a troubled child actor, who had to answer allegations of drug problems in addition to questions about her mental illness to the media before.

But, most TV viewers will forever remember her as that cute little intelligent girl from the small screen.

North Korea Claims Kim Jong Un Mastered Automobiles At Age 3

2012-01-09T13:33:00.000-08:00

In an absurd effort to make the new leader of North Korea into a god-like entity, the state is beginning a wave of absurdist propaganda to brainwash the population from cradle to grave about the great powers of their new leader. A new claim is that Kim Jong Un was able to master driving a car by the age of 3, and was able to speed along with rally type driving skills by the age of just 8! Whew, that's quite an accomplishment! Who knew that a three year old could see over a windshield, let alone feet reach the pedals at that tender toddler age.

Kim Jong Un just celebrated his birthday Sunday, and a new propaganda film was shown on state TV featuring him driving a tank and being praised as "a genius among geniuses". He was also elevated to a four star general by the military, although he personally has highly questionable military experience. The state also claimed that Kim Jong Un wrote his first thesis on military strategy when he was just 16, taking little time to eat or sleep, probably to make him appear somewhat like a figure like Moses. North Korea has the fourth largest military in the world.

In the future, Kim Jong Un's birthday will no doubt be elevated into a national holiday as the strict Stalinist Communist regime seeks to consolidate the hearts and minds of the population to overlook starvation and poverty and to believe in the all-powerful state and leader.

Mariska Hargitay Will Continue Her Det. Benson Role On SVU

2012-01-09T12:28:00.000-08:00

Mariska Hargitay was widely expected to be leaving LAW & ORDER:SVU at the end of this season by many TV observers. But, she pulled off a big surprise of sorts. She announced that she'll not only complete season 13, but be back for season 14 as well. She claims that she's just having too much "fun" to quit now. Fans of the show have to be breathing a huge collective sigh of relief right about now. Her TV character, Det. Olivia Benson, is one of the best acted characters on the small screen. Mariska Hargitay has also grown immensely as an actress since her days playing a small role on ER, and other small roles. In ER, her minor role was as a staffer love interest of one of the lead doctors. It wasn't too much of a role at all. But, Det. Olivia Benson has allowed Haritay to prove that she's one of TV's finest actresses, bar none.

When her longtime SVU co-star, Christopher Meloni suddenly announced his intent to leave after season 12 wrapped up, speculation began that Hargitay was also preparing to exit. She only fueled that speculation with statements such as she wanted to keep her future acting "options open". But, in the end, Hargitay looks ready to stay at SVU for the future.

SVU also gets some new star power this January when singer Harry Connick Jr. also joins the cast for some episodes as the new love interest of Det. Olivia Benson. Connick has not only proven himself in the world of music, but his stints at acting have always been well received by audiences as well. He seems equally at home playing roles in period piece dramas such as MEMPHIS BELLE, his first acting role in 1990, as well as in modern roles in INDEPENDENCE DAY and other top box office films. He should be a fine fit in SVU, giving the show additional star power.

It's so good to see that SVU still has plenty of life in the series. It remains as one of TV's best police dramas ever, with gritty story lines, fine writing and acting. One real gem of a drama show that NBC still has left.

Elvis Would Have Been 77. His Legacy Lives On

2012-01-08T15:04:00.000-08:00

Elvis, The King Of Rock 'N Roll, would have turned 77 on Sunday. Back in 1977, after a series of declining health issues, he collapsed in his bathroom of his Graceland mansion at the age of 42, and died. Some reports claim that his young daughter, Lisa Marie, was the first to find her father collapsed and alerted the other family members and staff.

First signed to Sun Records in 1953, record producer Sam Phillips claims that he never for one minute regretted selling the contract of Elvis to RCA Records because it gave him a cash windfall that allowed him to produce many other acts such as Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Johnny Cash, that he made a lot of money on. But, RCA sure made a huge windfall off of Elvis who had far more hit singles than The Beatles by far. Elvis was a huge success on early TV such as THE MILTON BERLE SHOW and ED SULLIVAN as well, where censors only would film him from the waist up because they thought that his dancing was far too sexually suggestive. But, nonetheless, Elvis quickly became a huge sensation.

His good looks and ability to act, quickly loaned himself to a number of films as well TV specials, including his great special from Hawaii and his 1968 comeback special when he appeared in black leather, singing many of his old hard rock hits. In 1972, his single "Burning Love" was also a return to his hard rock days, and was a #2 hit on the charts. One of his last bigger hits from 1976, "Way Down," hearkened back to his old pioneeering 50's hard rock sound as well. Elvis was both a master of the ballad as well as the old 50's version of hard rock. He was also one of the most soulful white singers of all time. At times, songs like "In The Ghetto" were able to a hit on the Soul, Pop and Country music charts all at the same time, an unprecedented achievement for any white performer. Elvis was that special.

Elvis had a total of 102 singles, 30 EPs and 70 albums on the RCA label alone along with a few more singles on Sun and several albums on the economy label Pickwick during his lifetime, as well as many more releases of additional material after his death.

What made Elvis such a musical revolution was how he would change music forever. Bill Haley was generally considered to be the first rock music act, however Elvis invented a new style that borrowed heavily from both his Southern background, combining country music with black R&B sounds. It created a new hard driving sound that many others such as Jerry Lee Lewis and Little Richard soon adopted as a style as well. For all intents and purposes, Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis and Little Richard all helped to found the new hard rock sound and laid down the foundation blocks of the new sound basis for newer generations of future hard rockers. The British blues rock group, Ten Years After, took their name from Elvis, meaning ten years after Elvis. Elvis made it cool for the new white rockers to use a heavy black R&B influenced sound in their music. While The Beatles did a little Chuck Berry in the early days, as did many other early British rockers, The Rolling Stones were always much more of a R&B influenced sound act. And some early acts such as The Animals had a very soulful sound thanks to the excellent talents of Eric Burden on vocals. Dusty Springfield was often called a white soul singer because of her style. One early song by Steppenwolf, "Sookie, Sookie" was played on some black radio stations for a few days until the programmers realized that this white blues influenced hard rock act was't black after all. Some white acts sounded just that soulful, mainly because of the influence of Elvis.

Elvis probably also greatly helped to advance the civil rights movement as well. He helped to break down the walls between white and black music. And he helped to make it cool to play black acts on stations that formerly played only white music. He broke down race barriers, along with musical ones. He might have had a lot of problems with declining health and heavy use of prescription drugs in his final years, but he was a religious and decent man much of his life. He even took time away from his career in music to serve in the military as well when Uncle Sam called. He was a true Southern gentleman much of his life. But sadly, both Elvis and Michael Jackson's health declines and ultimate deaths were similar in many ways. Both had doctors who heavily prescribed drugs. It was once said that Elvis needed drugs to get to bed, and to get out of bed. It was so tragic.

Elvis does leave us with his this great musical legacy. A true gift.

1001 Ways To Get Fired: Giving Out Racist Sales Receipts To Customers

2012-01-08T13:53:00.000-08:00

You have to really hand it to guys who constantly find some new creative ways to lose their jobs, but an employee of an uptown New York City, Papa John's pizza restaurant, decided to give an Asian woman by the name of Minhee Cho a racist receipt with the name "Lady Chinky Eyes" written on the receipt. As expected she complained to the parent company which was certainly very angry at both the location manager and employee both. The employee was certainly fired.

Papa John's certainly doesn't condone outrageous behavior like this. This is the work of one lone idiot employee, who strangely must have evolved from burning crosses to burning pizzas instead.

Charles Addams Turns 100

2012-01-07T13:40:00.000-08:00

The creative genius behind THE ADDAMS FAMILY, Charles Addams turns 100 today. He might have actually died in 1988 at the age of 76 from a sudden heart while parking his car, but his legacy of his bizarre characters seems to live on generations and seems timeless. He was a distant relative of two American presidents, John Adams and John Quincy Adams, although it's not really known where the second "d" in his name spelling comes from.

He was both artistically inclined and a little troubled as an youth, where the mansion that inspired THE ADDAMS FAMILY's own mansion was taken from a memory that he had of a burglary of a large and strange old home that he was arrested by police at. He seemed to always have some interest in crime, and by 1933 earned himself a job at TRUE DETECTIVE Magazine where his job was to artistically retouch murder victim's photos to remove gruesome wounds or blood for censorship reasons.

He also served stints as an animated filmmaker for military cartoons during WWII, but it was his long running series of ADDAMS FAMILY cartoons in THE NEW YORK TIMES that gave him a cult appeal among fans. By the 1960's he was approached by television producer David Levy for an idea for a weekly series based on the ADDAMS FAMILY characters. ABC added the series to their schedule in 1964, but the series only lasted for just two seasons. Incidentally, CBS TV's answer to THE ADDAMS FAMILY, THE MUNSTERS lasted, just two years as well. Neither show was a hit, but both shows developed a cult following during many years of syndication. THE ADDAMS FAMILY also inspired two really great feature length film as well, but the death of actor Raul Julia who played Gomez in the movies seemed to end hopes of a third film. But, in the television series, John Astin may have been the greatest incarnation of Gomez Addams ever. John Astin was great in this role.

Wherever you are Charles Addams, we love you. You brought us great characters and humor and made our lives wonderful with your dark and macabre sense of humor. You constructed a wild and wacky world of strangeness.

Exorcism & Washington Revolving Door Politics: Rick Santorum's Wacky 15 Minutes Of Fame

2012-01-06T14:47:00.000-08:00

Some stories cross the lines of celebrity, business, scandal and politics. And since his spectacular rise in Iowa, former U.S. Senator Rick Santorum has earned new media attention. However, after his 2006 landslide loss by more than 700,000 votes for re-election failed in his native Pennsylvania, Santorum took on a job paying $400,000 helping to consult and manage a major HMO, Universal Health Services,where he did very little constructive to stop serious financial fraud, rape, patient neglect, suicide or even murder at this HMO under his watch according to the long list of problems at this employer that government regulators noted. Santorum worked there between 1997 and 2011 . There was even one outrageous incident where some hospital staffers performed an unwanted exorcism on a severely autistic boy, attempting to explain his problems on demon possession of all things. The problems were so bad at Universal that government regulators even banned children from the HMO for their own safety. Yet Santorum would have you believe that he's somehow a common sense competent manager, rather than just some incompetent religious screwball nut.

Using his pull as a former senator who knew how to milk the system, Universal Health Care hired Santorum who helped to pull in millions of dollars in federal grants and money for the troubled hospital giant. During the early months of his presidential campaign, his former employer, Universal, also became his second largest campaign contributor as well. All of this only illustrates the cesspool of revolving door politics that exist in Washington. Santorum was voted out of office once by voters, disgusted with him. Now he thinks he should return as president.

Rather than being a breath of fresh air, Rick Santorum's politics is just more of the same old rotten Washington revolving door stuff. A disgraced senator who was voted out of office by a landslide because he couldn't even keep his own job, let alone jobs in his home state of Pennsylvania, where steel mills and manufacturing closed down in droves, now claims to be the new economic Messiah that America needs. Not hardly.

The reality is that all he did since leaving office was to shovel millions of tax dollars to his HMO employer because he knows how to milk the system for all it's worth. And now that employer would like to put him in the White House because there are so many more millions of tax dollars he could yet shovel to them as president. All of this outrageous Washington revolving door politics he poorly conceals with a paper thin-veneer of Holy Joe religion to boot.

The only positive thing in all of this is that Rick Santorum is never, ever, ever, going to win the Republican nomination or even for that matter be elected president. When you're the worst like Rick Santorum the only direction is straight down. He had his 15 minutes of fame last week in Iowa. Why he surged there, when far better and more serious candidates didn't do better could probably best be blamed on Iowa's strong core of social conservative voters who are willing to support even the worst possible candidates only if they are opposed to gay marriage or abortion. Screw the other issues such as basic ethics or integrity. But, now it's time to move on to more serious candidates in other states where many voters take voting far more seriously than the type of jerks who would vote for someone like a Santorum..

Santorum is spelled much like Sanatorium for good reason.

DVD Review: COWBOYS & ALIENS

2012-01-06T13:24:00.000-08:00

COWBOYS & ALIENS only finally recently made back it's huge $163 million in production costs after quickly becoming a Summer box office flop due to some lukewarm critical reviews. But, I can tell you this, this Steven Spielberg, Brian Grazer and Ron Howard production is much better than some critics have claimed. On one hand, you'd expect a little bit better from the likes of Steven Spielberg, Brian Glazer and Ron Howard. This film doesn't belong on the same shelf with excellent films like SCHINDLER'S LIST,SAVING PRIVATE RYAN, COCOON or APOLLO 13 by any means, but compared to most other films by other filmmakers, this is a very good movie.

Opening with a great theme song that strongly reminds you of a generic version of THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE UGLY, I was very excited. A great Western theme has me hooked every time. And tough guy actor Daniel Craig quickly picks up the ball as a typical Western tough guy who stole an alien weapon and becomes mankind's best shot at fighting off the alien invasion during the 1800's Western days.

Harrison Ford's role may be a little bit smaller here than expected here. He's far from INDIANA JONES here, but still this aging actor is a reasonable presence here. Harrison Ford plays a bad guy type here, but seems to gradually redeem himself. At one point he manages to create an alliance with a tribe of Indians to wage war on their common enemy, the aliens. The enemy of my enemy is my friend, they often say.

If I have any complaint, it's that the alien spaceships appear to vary in size, sometimes looking like small drones not even big enough for a pilot, let alone abducting humans, other times the alien space craft appear much larger. There appears to be a little continuity issues here. But, if you can overlook this flaw, and not laugh too hard, there is still more than enough of good story here to carry this odd mix of an alien-Western to enjoyable levels.

COWBOYS & ALIENS does combine some of the best of a good Western shtick, such as a great theme song, a mysterious stranger, a bad guy rancher type and other common elements along with the alien invasion theme. True, it creates an odd mix. Yet, the end result is good enough film that's more entertaining than some critics would have you believe.

The Bottom Line: Perhaps far away from the very best film ever to masthead the names of greats like Steven Spielberg, Ron Howard or Brian Grazer. Yet, these guys sure know how to spend enough money to make some good movies. ***(Three Stars, Good. But, just barely. But, good enough to be good entertainment. Buy it or rent it. You can't really go wrong with anything with Steven Spielberg's name written on it).

Holy Christ! Casey Anthony's New Look .....And She Adopts!

2012-01-05T11:57:00.000-08:00

Now that we've filled you with horror, let's tell you that this isn't as bad as it sounds. It seems that Casey Anthony has adopted a pet dog. Well, as long as you feed it, love, and it doesn't end up in a trunk of your car, things should be fine, Casey. We can only hope.

But, a jury should convict whoever did this terrible makeover on this acquitted accused child killer. Gez, this is a bad look compared to before. If witness protection mandated a look like this, then you'd have no choice. But, why for the love of everything holy voluntarily go for this look....yuuuck!

Will Kodak File Chapter 11 Papers?

2012-01-04T15:41:00.000-08:00

Rumors of a possible filing of Chapter 11 bankruptcy papers by the once proud photography brand, Eastman Kodak, sent the company's stock plunging on Wall Street today. Investors dumped the stock like a hot potato when the rumors of serious money problems leaked as news. At one time, Kodak was the undisputed largest brand of film sold, but photography has dramatically changed in this modern video age.

The photography industry has also faced serious environmental rules disputes as well. Chief Justice John Roberts started his legal career as an attorney for industrial polluters such as Kodak, who often would use public rivers to dump their industrial waste products. Kodak has since developed a partnership with another company to reprocess their industrial waste into new chemicals such as polymers.

But, it seems like the advent of digital technology has signaled the end of some older products like Kodak when they weren't viewed by the public as keeping up with the times. It's probably more a false public perception than anything, because Kodak has worked on a wealth of new products over the years. But, some public perceptions are hard to break.

Kodak is rumored to be working on a type of debtor-in-possession financing worth $1 billion that will allow the company to stay open for business as it reorganizes, and hopefully stays around for the future.

Beautiful Jessi Combs Back With 1001 CAR THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU DIE Video Series

2012-01-04T14:09:00.000-08:00

Beautiful car enthusiast girl, Jessi Combs, is back with a new series. This time an automotive video series on the Web comprised of 1001 CAR THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU DIE. The new series appears to be something of a new genre, a brand new TV show that's brought directly to the Internet rather than to cable TV. AUTOBLOG is running the new video series on their website.

Jessi Combs was the popular co-host on EXTREME 4X4, until she required some back surgery and was forced to get some rest. But, she has since returned to TV on the popular show MYTHBUSTERS. She's a true expert on automobiles, and holds a college degree on custom automobile fabrication.

Jessi Combs has to be just about the most perfect girl. She's beautiful, with cute good looks and plenty feminine, yet she's as good of a mechanic as any of the boys. How perfect is that?

One Suspect Arrested In Hollywood Arson Spree, But A TMZ Producer Identifies A Second Person

2012-01-03T15:09:00.000-08:00

A probable German national, Harry Burkhart, who kept on shouting, "I hate America", was arrested as a prime suspect for the Hollywood arson spree where 53 properties and automobiles were set on fire. The 24 year old had been described as a radical leftist by some news sources, while others claim that he was upset that his mother is involved in facing deportation from an immigration fight. But, police haven't yet released a motive by Burkhart, who was initially arrested because he resembled a person of interest in a surveillance video. Police later searched his minivan which was registered with a Canadian license plate, finding probable arson equipment which was seized as evidence. Burkhart's mother claims her son is mentally ill.

If Burkhart is convicted of the arson spree, which totals around $3 million in damage, then he could could face close to life in prison because the potential for loss of life was so high due to his serious actions. At least one fireman was injured from a fall

But, one producer for TMZ is somewhat disputing some key facts here. He claims that he personally witnessed a possible accomplice or another person other than Burkhart who actually tampered with a car that later exploded in flames. Numerous police and detectives contacted the TMZ producer, who again noted that the man who was arrested by police is not the same man he saw tampering with the car before it burst into flames. This information could lead to an arrest of more persons, or even clear Burkhart as the wrong key suspect in this arson spree, although since the arrest of Burkhart, no new arsons have been reported.

Scott Elliot Of ELECTION PROJECTION 2012 Predicts The Election Outcomes

2012-01-03T13:16:00.000-08:00

Scott Elliot has an uncanny ability to to analyze statistics and polling data, and for the past several years has been earning high praise as having one of the most accurate election polling data analysis sites. His ELECTION PROJECTION 2012 website has to be one of the best election sites to follow this year along with REAL CLEAR POLITICS. Although Scott's own politics lean toward the conservative side, he's able to clearly analyze data in a subjective manner without the bias that plagues some polling organizations. And since Scott relies on his special mathematical and statistics analysis formulas, and does not conduct polling of his own, he is able to come up with a unique statistics analysis website.

Using his own unique statistics analysis methods, Scott is predicting that Rick Santorum edges out a win in today's Iowa caucuses with 24% of the vote. Mitt Romney follows at 23%. Ron Paul will have about 22% according to Scott's methodology. Scott views the momentum that Santorum has built in recent days as a further proof that Santorum will win.

Scott may be exactly right here. Compared to the more moderate Republican voters in New Hampshire, Iowa Republicans seem to have a much higher percentage of Christian conservative and social conservative voters, where past social conservative candidates like Pat Robertson and Pat Buchanan have historically done very well in Iowa, but have done far less well in New Hampshire, and ultimately failed to be nominated. Scott also seems to have a hunch that Mitt Romney still might be the unstoppable nominee, especially if he scores well in Iowa and New Hampshire, and deals a quick knockout blow to the other candidates.

While there is great excitement about today's first election event of 2012, Scott does manage to temper that excitement with his ongoing electoral college analysis for 2012, where predicts that President Obama wins re-election in 2012, but by a smaller margin of victory than 2008. And he only loses two states that he won in 2008, Indiana and North Carolina, otherwise the 2012 election outcome is the same as 2008. For all of the money spent on elections this year, we might still end up with the same outcome that we already have. In Iowa, for example, it has been said that about $200 per caucus voter has been spent by the campaigns and PACs.

Scott comes from an interesting background. His parents were two of the first group of Christian missionaries in Iraq after Saddam Hussein was overthrown in the war. But, both were tragically killed in one of the first attacks of sectarian violence by a roadside bomb. Their deaths were one of the first of the wave of violence that made the country very unsafe for foreign workers in that nation until security measures were greatly improved.

Scott has also earned himself the nickname, "The Blogging Caesar", which seems pretty accurate for someone so accurate in their analysis of politics. PBS, CNN and many other news sources have praised Scott's work before. He remains possibly the greatest armchair political pundit of them all. And you have to really admire Scott's website. It's one of the best analysis sites of them all. You should check it out, or better yet make him a Paypal donation to keep up the good work. I was a paid subscriber to his paid site before in previous years because I'm a fan of his interesting work with statistics. And good work deserves a reward.

Producer Claims FOX Canceled SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE Results Show

2012-01-02T15:54:00.000-08:00

The executive producer of SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE, Nigel Lithgoe, claims that FOX canceled the big results show, which has been heavily padded up with little real substantial content. But, that means the show will remain TV with another season despite slipping ratings. The results will be incorporated in the last episode of the show at the end somehow rather than become another big one or two hour event stand alone event. Naturally fans of the show are upset at FOX. However, look for SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE to appear again for the Summer season right after May.

Ron Paul Supporters Using Occupy Iowa Movement To Harass Other Candidates

2012-01-02T11:50:00.000-08:00

Supporters of maverick presidential candidate Ron Paul are posting messages of support for their candidate on the Occupy Iowa Facebook page while promising to target the other presidential candidates running for president, including the Democratic Party. While these dirty campaign tricks don't appear to be directly linked to the official Ron Paul campaign, one message of support for Ron Paul includes an appeal to phone others urging them to vote for Ron Paul.

Strangely, while Occupy Iowa uses a flag that looks like some sort of Communist revolutionary movement flag, the candidate that many in Occupy Iowa support, Ron Paul, isn't even that liberal politically. For example, he's very anti-union, meaning that he opposes the higher wages, better job safety and working conditions standards, retirement benefits, health care benefits, and job protections that union jobs bring. On his main campaign website, Ron Paul makes it clear that he's a champion of Right-To-Work laws, which keep union memberships low in many Southern states, keeping wages historically low in many of these states. In addition, Right-To-Work laws are supported by many big corporate lobby organizations. For people who claim to support the "99%" it seems strange that they support a candidate whose views represent those of some corporate organizations who want to actually lower wages and job benefits for most Americans workers.

Ron Paul also proclaims himself to be the "most conservative" of the candidates running for president as well, rather than being a progressive or liberal of any sort. But, he takes extremist views on many issues including foreign policy such as opposing American involvement with the NATO peace actions in Afghanistan. It was however, extremism from Afghanistan and the Taliban giving home to al Qaeda terrorists that led to the 9/11 attacks in the United States. It seems incredibly naive politically to oppose police actions by Western states to prevent further actions of terrorism and to allow the Taliban extremists to brutalize the people of Afghanistan, especially the women, where legally sanctioned public floggings and other human rights abuse flourish. Many young women in Afghanistan consider their lives so bad that set themselves on fire as a protest to shame a sick religious society that has arranged marriages and other terrible oppression of women.

Ron Paul also has a legacy of sending some racist messages as well, including the outrageous claim that, "I think that we can assume that 95 percent of the black men in that city(Washington, D.C.) are semi-criminal or entirely criminal" and also the absurd claim that, "Racial violence will fill our cities (because) mostly black welfare recipients will feel justified in stealing from mostly white haves". And Ron Paul takes similar tough views on immigration reform as well, besides being solidly pro-gun and anti-abortion views. Yet, a bunch of the young people who are part of Occupy Iowa, and so politically naive that they support this candidate who is an opposed to almost anything that involves either common sense or moderation.

Likely, Ron Paul won't be winning the Iowa caucuses tomorrow. His coalition of Occupy Iowa supporters, some disaffected Democrats, and some Republican Party extremists is just too unstable of a coalition of voters to count on, where most more traditional Republicans will likely vote for a more traditional and credible Republican candidate. And it's also disturbing that Occupy Iowa has caused disruptions for other campaigns as well as the Democratic Party, when so many people in Occupy Iowa identify so closely with candidate Ron Paul. This comes very close to illegal dirty tricks and major election violations. Further, there are news reports that hundreds of Occupy supporters are coming into the state just to disrupt the Caucus events tomorrow, which would be a form of illegal intimidation of voters, which violates both state and federal law. The courts never looked kindly on events where the Ku Klux Klan intimidated voters in the early '60's. Occupy intimidation of voters is not likely to be viewed much better by the courts today.

Unfortunately, it looks very likely that Occupy Iowa as well as some other Occupy supporters could make major news from Iowa tomorrow. But, for all the wrong reasons.

Crime: Is The "Occupy" Movement Responsible For The Hollywood Arsons

2011-12-31T14:52:00.000-08:00

Local law enforcement officials have ruled out terrorism with the rash of Hollywood arsons. But now, someone with the "Occupy" movement could be associated with the wave of arsons against prime real estate they might associate with wealth.

And the latest attempted federal crimes for the "Occupy" movement was a number of arrests on Saturday from "Occupy Iowa" protesters, who blocked the doors to a Democratic state party headquarters in the state. One 14 year old high school aged girl has been arrested for the third time, because only local trespassing charges were filed against her and not much stiffer federal charges for interference in the voting process were charge. Some spokesman for the "Occupy Iowa" movement claimed that the loose organization of protesters aren't trying to disrupt the caucuses, yet others pledge to do just that, disrupt the voting at Tuesday's statewide caucuses.

All of this represents just why problems with the "Occupy" movement have grown so out of control. Protesters commit serious federal crimes such as interfering in banking, interfering in interstate commerce when they blocked the transfer of goods by trucking from the Western coast state's docks, and now are stepping up to illegal interference in federally protected voting rights.

In California, the rash of arsons of prime real estate properties could well be the work of someone associated with the "Occupy" movement as well, because they seem to be targeting properties associated with upper income individuals. The former home of Jim Morrison, the late singer of The Doors, was targeted by some arsonist criminal. The luxury three story historic home is valued at more than $1.1 million.

At some point, law enforcement officials will likely want to send a message to the "Occupy" movement to only engage in constitutionally protected protests and legal free speech rights, and to stop the illegal acts such as arson or federal crimes associated with the movement. Interference in the Iowa caucuses may just push that legal button. Courts have never looked kindly on extremists such as the Ku Klux Klan or others who prevented voters from voting. Likely, the courts just won't view interference in the voting process as a legitimate political protest, when other perfectly legal protests are possible.

Light My Fire: Jim Morrison's Home Damaged In Hollywood Arson Attack

2011-12-31T01:44:00.000-08:00

The $1.119 million dollar former home of the legendary singer, Jim Morrison of The Doors, was one of 19 properties damaged by early morning arson attacks in Hollywood, California. The residence helped to inspire Morrison to write the classic album track, "Love Street". Jim Morrison once lived in the 3 story home with his longtime girlfriend, Pamela Courson. 56 firemen fought the fire for 35 minutes in the home built in 1922, saving the historic residence from complete destruction. It appears that it was largely the front part of the home that was badly damaged by the arson, making the rebuild and restoration very likely of the home which has recently been listed as a an exclusive rental property for persons wanting to spend some time in the legendary singer's former home.

Russell Brand Files For Divorce From Katy Perry

2011-12-30T15:25:00.000-08:00

The dream team marriage of wildly popular British comic actor Russell Brand and pop music icon Katy Perry is ending in divorce. Brand filed papers charging "irreconcilable differences" in the marriage as the cause of the breakdown of this marriage. It should however be noted that rumors exist that Brand just didn't approve of the late night party ways of Katy Perry after he personally spent time in therapy for for both drug and sex addiction problems. There are also some rumors that Katy Perry was really the one wanting to end the marriage, however her religious upbringing caused her to seek that brand would file the papers ending the marriage instead of her. Both, were recently photographed in public minus their wedding rings, strongly suggesting that this divorce was hardly a surprise to either party, but carefully planned ahead of time with both parties out of the country at the time. The papers were filed in Los Angeles court.

Their isn't any children involved in this short 14 month marriage, and it is highly possible that both had some sort of prenup papers, meaning that this divorce may be very simple in the courts and hardly involve any major disputes. This might signify a clean and easy break for these two.

DVD Review: THE HUMAN CENTIPEDE 2(THE FULL SEQUENCE)

2011-12-30T12:39:00.000-08:00

What an unbelievable sequel to the highly controversial original film, THE HUMAN CENTIPEDE, this film is. Shot in B&W, converted from color footage, this British-Dutch horror film is a real masterwork of the macabre. While offering up little in way of dialog beyond many moans and screams for the most, this film acts as a very morbid chronicle of the sick and twisted fascinations of a very strange little overweight and mentally ill parking lot attendant, Martin Lomax(played by British character actor Laurence R. Harvey). Lomax is a deeply disturbed fan the original HUMAN CENTIPEDE film who plays the film over and over, and even becomes sexually aroused at the film. He begins a terrible task of gathering victims to construct a crudely fashioned version of the centipede creation from the first film.

Being shot in B&W, with British characters helps to give this deeply disturbing film a very classic look. I personally love B&W, and consider many great movies shot in B&W to be real masterpieces. And as far as macabre crime stories go, this second episode in THE HUMAN CENTIPEDE series is so deeply outrageous that it ranks as a true classic of horror filmmaking. This film goes places that the old Universal and Hammer horror films never dare to tread. I don't want to spoil the shock value with too many details here. But this film just shocks beyond belief. It's almost pornographically horrible. in fact, in the UK, the film was only allowed to be shown in the country after 32 edits were made in the film.

The Bottom Line: A truly shocking and outrageous horror film with a real classic look thanks to the clever use of B&W film. ***(Three Stars, Good. Buy or rent this only if you truly love horror films. Everyone else will be repelled by this deeply gruesome and film).

The Cheetah Death Controversy

2011-12-29T14:20:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, it was announced that Cheetah the chimpanzee from the 1930's TARZAN films had died over the weekend at a Florida animal sanctuary by major news organizations. It was claimed that he died at the age of 80 from Kidney failure. Today, this news is being strongly questioned. Animal experts claim that the normal life expectancy for a chimpanzee in captivity is around 40 years. One well documented case did note one chimpanzee that lived to be 60, but that was the rare exception.

The chimp that died was indeed a remarkable creature. He loved to listen to Christian music, which he found very relaxing. His hobby was finger painting. His favorite television programs were football games, although it was never known whether he actually had a particular favorite team. Maybe chimps don't think quite that deep. But, chimps are an amazingly intelligent animal, a close relative to mankind. But, all said, it seems highly unlikely that this particular chimp actually lived to be 80.

No doubt the management of the Florida animal sanctuary took very good care of a very remarkable animal, with great personality and intelligence. But, it was probably some sort of mistaken identity that this was also one of the greatest animal stars of all time as well.

DVD Review; BUNRAKU

2011-12-28T14:15:00.000-08:00

Even the sheer star power of Woody Harrelson, Demi Moore and Ron Perlman can't save this visually appealing but confused mess of a film that had aimed for high things, only to shoot for the ground instead. For me, it only took about five minutes realize that I don't like this film. And other critics agree with me as well, as BUNRAKU has achieved a lowly 16% positive rating among the critics poll on Rotten Tomatoes. That's not particularly good, is it?

Set in a strange and futuristic setting, BUNRAKU hoped to achieve a surreal and cartoonish look. And it does that. But, the film just isn't that interesting, with not really all that much of a story to tell other than some mysterious drifter and a young Samurai warrior battle criminals in a futuristic city. Unfortunately, this story of an odd truce of the Yoshi, the Samurai, the drifter, and a bartender to battle the criminal world of Nicola, the "woodcutter", is hardly THE SEVEN SAMURAI or even THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN by any stretch of the imagination Those films were great, this film sure isn't.

Audiences did enjoy this film somewhat more than the critics. But, that was only a 50/50 proposition there. That's hardy enough to recommend this film.

The Bottom Line: A very disappointing movie experience for me. I can't recommend this film to anyone. *1/2(One and a half stars, or a little better than flat out poor because of the amount of all the artistic effort this film took, but without a sufficient story to match, this effort was for naught).

DVD Review: A HORRIBLE WAY TO DIE

2011-12-28T00:25:00.000-08:00

Hidden among many popular favorites at the video store is this little overlooked gem, A HORRIBLE WAY TO DIE. Shot almost in a matter of fact documentary style, it traces the parallel lives of a woman who once had a relationship with s serial killer, but later helped to put him away in prison after their relationship went bust and the serial killer's escape from prison while being transported by police. The woman has since fallen into alcoholism because of all the psychological trauma brought on her life and is now attending alcoholic recovery meetings.

Another shocking turn of events is a small group of twisted groupie fans of the serial killer which only help to add another frightening layer dimension to this very unsettling crime story.

This little gem has been nominated for major awards at the Fantastic Fest, including Best Screenplay, Best Actor and Best Actress. The film debuted at the Toronto Film Festival and manages to blur the lines between a gritty crime drama and a horror film, with it's terrifying examples of sadistic violence.

The Bottom Line: A true overlooked gem of a film. Very fine filmmaking and storytelling combined with very credible acting make this a great little film sure not to disappoint. ***(Three Stars, Good. Definitely buy or rent this fine film).

My Girlfriend's Incredible Glamour Photo Shoot

2011-12-27T22:14:00.000-08:00

Everyday I find out something new and wonderful about my girlfriend, Monica, and I was absolutely awed by the wonderful glamour photo shoot she was featured in a few years ago. Her photographer was just wonderful and did such excellent work. Here's two of my favorite shots. I hope you enjoy these photos as much as I do.

Major League WTF?: Woman Arrested For Assault On Elderly Walmart Greeter

2011-12-26T12:50:00.000-08:00

A 26 year old woman was arrested for a violent assault on a 70 year old greeter at a New York Walmart after she punched the elderly woman who simply asked to see her receipts for the items she purchased. The arrested woman had all of the receipts for the items she paid for, but apparently objected to cooperating with Walmart's loss prevention program. Employees and customers were so outraged at the brutal assault on the elderly woman that they quickly moved against the suspect, Jacquetta Simmons.

Simmons was charged with two counts of second degree assault.

Newt Gingrich Fails To Make Primary Ballot In Home State

2011-12-24T14:04:00.000-08:00

Presidential candidate Newt Gingrich sure got a big lump of coal for Christmas from his home state or residency, Virginia, when he failed to make the ballot because of some state election rule regarding 10,000 valid signatures required to make the ballot. For the same reason, Gov. Rick Perry of Texas also was slighted here as well. It had to be an incredible blow to Gingrich who has declared Virginia as home for the last decade since quiting Congress. Gingrich's campaign organizers submitted 11, 050 signatures to state election officials, however enough of the signatures appeared to be either duplicate signatures or else invalid, so election officials denied his spot on the ballot.

Likely, Gingrich will have to appeal the process and attempt to gain a spot on the ballot, otherwise he is denied a spot on his home state ballot on the critical Super Tuesday voting,

The simply unbelievable decision by state election officials had to be a huge disappointment by the two major candidates for president denied ballot status because of crazy state rules that don't just automatically include all major candidates on the ballot for public office by the Virginia Secretary Of State's office. However, Gingrich's campaign director, Michael Krull, did make an unhelpful confounding remark comparing the surprise move by Virginia election officials to the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. We both understand what he means, and don't understand what he means.

Gingrich's campaign is likely to launch a write-in campaign or explore other legal options. In a close election campaign, a handful of delegates here or there may spell the difference for the winning ultimate party nominee.

SMiLE: The Greatest Unreleased Album Ever!

2011-12-23T13:24:00.000-08:00

From 1966 through 1967, Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys had a dream to make his fantastic concept album SMiLE a follow-up to PET SOUNDS . The album incorporated some fantastic and revolutionary new recording technology such as the song "Good Vibrations" which reportedly cost as much as $100,000 in production money to produce. According to Brian Wilson, the album was intended to be a "teenage symphony to God", and was supposed to be a landmark album back in the day when groups like the Beatles had raised the bar quite a few levels with their awesome SGT. PEPPER masterpiece, another Capitol Records released masterpiece from 1967. Both SGT. PEPPER and SMiLE likely could have been considered the two greatest albums of all time, and despite the huge success of "Good Vibrations" as a number one single, SMiLE just never was released. The song did finally make it on to the album SMILEY SMILE nearly one year after it was released.

The Beach Boys were beset with a wide range of problems while the work on SMiLE drug on for months and months. Mike Love didn't like the SMiLE project and raised significant opposition to it, creating dissent within the group. And song co-writer Van Dyke Parks quit as he didn't believe in the project either. Carl Wilson was having a legal battle with the draft board at the time, hoping to avoid military service in Vietnam , and Brian Wilson was beginning to experience worsening mental health problems. Add all of these problems to the groups ongoing legal battle with Capitol Records, to leave the label for a more creatively free contract elsewhere, and the SMiLE project just seem damned from the beginning. SMILEY SMILE was a quickly thrown together project meant to satisfy the contractual obligation of the Beach Boys to Capitol although . SMILEY SMILE didn't do really well for the act, and only peaked at #41 on the U.S. charts, although in the UK did better, and reached #9 there.

By 1967, Brian Wilson wanted the surf-oriented band to remain relevant with the times, and hoped that the psychedelic-era inspired SMiLE would keep the act current, but the album just never happened. In 2003, Brian Wilson started work on a new digitally recorded version of SMiLE that was released in 2004. And now, there is significant critical acclaim for the SMiLE SESSIONS, a newly released boxset that includes a reconstruction of the original concept album from the original master tapes along with many outtake and studio banter recordings. And the Beach Boys are announcing plans for a new tour in 2012 as well. Some bootleg releases have offered up a construction of SMiLE, but never before have the original tapes sounded this good. This album is a true masterpiece that likely could have kept the Beach Boys a top act. But, the reality was that SMILEY SMILE was the beginning of their decline as top act, with a lesser lever of popularity that point on. SMiLE remains a great what if in musical history.

Maybe, the California sun just never sets on the surf, and Summer is endless after all.

More Legal Troubles For GIRLS GONE WILD

2011-12-22T15:20:00.000-08:00

GIRLS GONE WILD founder Joe Francis has made himself a very wealthy man from exploiting young women flashing on camera. But, that hasn't always made up for all of the serious legal problems his Mantra film production company has brought him. The latest legal incident seems more minor compared to jail time and huge fines he has already paid because of prior legal problems and tax problems. It seems that a few nights ago, GIRLS GONE WILD rented a Hollywood mansion for a nude photo shoot that neighbors found extremely offensive so they called the police who cited the company with a misdemeanor charge of filming a movie without a permit.

Francis started out as a business student in college and has grown a controversial film empire that started with a line of BANNED FROM TV video series that made him a millionaire by the age of 24. But, then he decided that having young women flash in public would be more fun, and he bought half hour infomercial time on cable TV channels at wee hours of the morning signing customers up for automatic shipments of his videos which brought him FTC legal problems for not always be upfront and disclosing this fact.

But, more serious problems for Francis developed in Panama City, Florida during Spring break in 2003 when Francis was arrested on 71 very serious charges which included racketeering, drug trafficking and failure to follow federal 18USC #2257 laws. His private jet among other property were seized, but after a judge threw out most of the charges his jet and other property were returned in 2007. Francis did eventually have to pay $2.1 million dollar fine for failure to follow federal 18USC #2257 rules in regards to record keeping of the ages of young women appearing in his videos as all other American companies dealing in adult material are required to do. This sloppy way of doing business later led to a lawsuit by four young women who claimed that they were under the age of 18 at the time that GIRLS GONE WILD filmed them. One had even claimed to be as young as 13 at the time. But, the case was settled in court with none of the plaintiffs receiving anything in the way of damages.

Tax problems also landed Francis in jail as well. But these felony charges were eventually reduced to misdemeanor charges. The IRS claims that Francis owed more than $33 million in back taxes, however Francis claims that the IRS seized more than $100 million from his bank accounts.

Of all of the softcore porn companies that ever existed, the empire of Joe Francis has been far more troubled by legal issues than most. Maybe he's been unfairly targeted by authorities, or maybe, he just does business in such a terrible way that he attracts problems. But regardless, his GIRLS GONE WILD empire has faced more serious legal issues than most other adult entertainment companies by far.

LIVE WITH KELLY Ratings Tumble

2011-12-21T13:55:00.000-08:00

Without Regis Philbin as co-host, the ratings for LIVE WITH KELLY have taken a big hit recently. Latest numbers are down by about 35 percent, as the show hasn't found a permanent co-host replacement since Regis Philbin announced his retirement. Word was that Regis didn't like the terms of his new contract, which pushed him toward an earlier retirement. Some names like comic Dana Carvey have been mentioned as possible replacements, and Jerry Seinfeld did fill in for a few days as co-host. But, without a big draw name, the show is doing badly in the ratings and could eventually be a candidate for cancellation if the situation doesn't stabilize and the ratings drop stops. Stay tuned!

The End Of The Road For Saab

2011-12-19T18:17:00.000-08:00

After 64 years building some respected automobile designs, Saab automobiles will soon disappear for good. The unusual brand started in Sweden, becoming one of Europe's last manufacturers to still build some automobiles powered by two stroke engines until the company joined with most other world manufacturers building their own version of cleaner burning four stroke engine designs. Saab and Volvo remained as Sweden's two top car brands for many years, before Saab was eventually acquired by GM. However, when GM sought a U.S. government backed loan agreement to stay in business, the company was forced to cut back their lines and Saab was cut free. The brand struggled on it's own, and sought to be sold to a Chinese automobile brand, however GM nixed the deal, claiming that they had too much intellectual property invested in Saab to sell to another company. This all essentially brought Saab to the brink of bankruptcy and the end of the road financially, where the company now seeks bankruptcy to close down the brand and pay off corporate debts.

Saab also was an important manufacturer of defense aircraft and radar systems as well, however the December 19, 2011 declaration of bankruptcy apparently ends that venture as well. GM no doubt had some serious concerns here as well about China purchasing this technology as well.

A long history of building interesting looking automobiles and high tech aircraft appears to end here. And the Chinese hopes of acquiring an important automobile brand ends as well. It's a sad end to a brand that was once the pride of Sweden.

DVD Review: 11/11/11

2011-12-19T14:20:00.000-08:00

Don't you just hate those pesky open portals to Hell? Well, I'm sure the characters in 11/11/11 sure do. But seriously, 11/11/11 is a quirky and better than usual offering from independent horror brand The Asylum. With a more traditional movie type final production work, this release from The Asylum has a true theatrical movie look compared to some other Asylum releases that had that college film class look about them. Sure, this company still releases some ridiculous titles such as ALMIGHTY THOR meant to confuse viewers who thought that they were going to watch that far more successful film, THOR. But, standing on it's own to legs, 11/11/11 is a decent attempt at horror film making and has more than a few good moments along with a healthy helping of quirky characters and interesting casting.

11/11/11 seems well written enough with one strange event and character building up to a frightening climax. It's a good example of decent writing, acting and story development as a married couple discover that their son is the gateway to the apocalypse.

The Bottom Line: At one time I discounted The Asylum as a brand of films lacking enough acceptable standards for me to enjoy as a brand. But, no more. The Asylum keeps on improving. and offering better and better films. 11/11/11 is effective enough, well produced enough, that it can up against any offering from Lionsgate or other major horror genre producers. (** 1/2(Two and a half stars, or better than fair. Nearly good. Worth watching this film. I'm looking forward to a new April release by Asylum, NAZIS AT THE CENTER OF THE EARTH. This looks to be an outrageous classic with some successful elements of DEAD SNOW included).

Rob Schneider Gets New Attempt To Fail At CBS

2011-12-18T16:48:00.000-08:00

As much as I just love Rob Schneider, his name is hardly often thought of in the same sentence with the word, success. His movies are critically panned, and his TV career has been less than stellar as well. But, Rob's an incredibly decent man who always tries his best. After, 9/11 he volunteered his time touring with the USO. He cares enough people that they need to give him a chance, although it can be rather painful at times. My favorite quote about Rob Schneider comes from Patrick Goldstein of THE LOS ANGELES TIMES, who sarcastically commented that DEUCE BIGALOW: MALE GiGOLO was overlooked for an Oscar because "nobody had the foresight to invent a category for Best Running Penis Joke Delivered By A Third Rate Comic". That pretty much sums up the near universal disappointment in former SNL cast member Rob Schneider as an actor and comic by the critics. But, such cutting words sure haven't deterred him from continuing to act.

Usually, Rob Schneider has operated in the shadow of his friend, Adam Sandler. However, for ROB, his new CBS show, he steps out on his own as a writer for his own show. CBS sort of liked the pilot he offered them when he attempted to make the Fall schedule, but they didn't like some of the characters and wanted to see some script changes. CBS liked the revamped show enough that they gave ROB a eight show trial as a mid-season replacement in January.

When Rob Schneider's last show was canceled by NBC, MEN BEHAVING BADLY, he was gracious to have been given the opportunity by the network. Likewise, always being the gentleman, Rob Schneider needs to prepare himself in case this newest gig fails. Let's all wish him the best this time around. This guy deserves to have something click again. I'll watch and give him a chance.

It's Here!: SANTA & HIS SLED 2011

2011-12-17T02:40:00.000-08:00

Hey kids, I know you've waited all year for this. Well, here's SANTA & HIS SLED 2011. Remember only just a few shopping days before Christmas!

AMERICA''S GOT TALENT:The Mainstreaming Of Howard Stern

2011-12-16T01:57:00.000-08:00

Piers Morgan will be missed when he exits the panel of judges for this next Summer's season of AMERICA's GOT TALENT. But, America should have nothing to fear when controversial pay radio celebrity Howard Stern takes over for Morgan. Howard Stern should be outspoken as usual, but expect him to make the most of this opportunity to look for a mainstream media break, something that he's missed since the FCC pretty well forced the shock jock off public radio onto the uncensored world of pay per listen satellite radio.

You can expect Howard Stern to be outspoken as usual, but this is actually too big of an opportunity for him to blow. This will be his biggest attempt at breaking into the mainstream market since his great autobiographical film, PRIVATE PARTS. While this show was often funny, it also showed a kinder and gentler Howard Stern at moments who appeared to be a good family man and loyal to his wife. However, since then he has moved on to another love, but seems to be just as loyal to her.

Howard Stern is being paid a reported $20 million dollars, and it's a golden opportunity to be seen by a wider audience than the lonely exile of satellite radio. Howard Stern is a very shrewd businessman. He knows that this is big break for him as well as the contestants on the show. Expect him to make the most of this opportunity to further market himself.

From his humble roots as a young enterprising boy from Queens, Howard learned what many humble persons did to break out of that cycle of having very little. They need to sell themselves as a commodity to the public, market their talents to get ahead. And judging from his massive success so far, Howard has been a master of this self-marketing. This new opportunity to go mainstream should hold every advantage for Howard.

Smoking Chimp Dies At 44

2011-12-15T15:41:00.001-08:00

Booie, the 44 year old chimp who quit the smoking habit, only to develop a habit for sweets, has died. Once rescued from a research lab, the chimp had been living at an animal refuge. He had become an expert of sign language, and was able to communicate with staff about his wants. He was able to put together entire sentences using sign language, for example, "Booie, see sweet in pocket" to beg for candy. He was a deeply intelligent animal, proving the great intelligence of apes.

Booie passed away from heart problems at his home at an animal refuge near Los Angeles. Normally, chimps don't often live past 40, so it doesn't appear that his prior habit of smoking had a great impact on his health. Only a few rare chimps have lived as old as 60 in captivity, though.

Chimps are a strange animal in that they possess great intelligence on one hand, however their animal instincts can make them a potentially dangerous animal in that a chimp has such great strength that they could tear a grown man limb from limb although they are only as tall as child. As intelligent as chimps are, the older they get, they get sometimes more unpredictable and dangerous. This is why young chimps are often trained and used in stunts and TV work and retired as they get older.

FEAR FACTOR Controversy: Producers Edited Contestant Tape To Suggest Inappropriate Relationship Between Mother And Son

2011-12-15T13:57:00.000-08:00

NBC's return of FEAR FACTOR has already been caught in controversy, and not for some awful stunt the contestants were asked to perform. It appears that the producers of the show may have edited footage of a mother and son competing on the show to suggest that the two may be having an inappropriate relationship with each other.

The producers of the show featured a long hug of the mother and son team after completing a grueling task, and then featured a crude joke by Joe Rogan, "I hug my my every time I see her.....but then I let go", which seemed to falsely suggest the two have an inappropriate relationship.

The mother, who for now only prefers to go by the name, Monica, is an ex-bodybuilder, is extremely upset at the crude joke as well as the editing job to make the awful suggestion of some inappropriate mother and son relationship, but will probably decline to sue at this time, according to a TMZ report. TMZ also attempted to contact FEAR FACTOR over this incident, but so far hasn't heard back.

Normally, NBC is really good about keeping in contact with entertainment news sources. Today alone, NBC sent Wizbang Pop two emails keeping us with the latest show news over at the network. So where is FEAR FACTOR today. Are they afraid of something?

MAD Magazine's "The 20 Dumbest People, Events And Things 2011" Issue Out

2011-12-14T01:43:00.000-08:00

Just like TIME Magazine that has it's much anticipated "Man Of the Year" issue, MAD Magazine's yearly 20 "Dumbest People, Events And Things " issue is out for the year. And the cover is a an excellent parody of Nirvana's NEVERMIND cover art, featuring President Obama swimming after a dollar bill. The normally liberal-leaning publication in fact took a pretty hard swipe at the president and congress both, comparing them to gutless zombies in a WALKING DEADsque parody. And MAD found more easy targets including those with a blind eye to the sexual abuse scandal at Penn State as well as Charlie Sheen, Anthony Weiner, Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, the NBA(No Basketball Association) and more.

You'll howl with either laughter or anger, as MAD takes a few hard jabs and swipes at some outrageous targets through a mix of top grade parody and satire as well as some sharp journalism. In all of the years that MAD has been doing this, this is perhaps the best ever. Buy this issue. It's a classic!

The Net Worth Of The Presidential Candidates: Which Millionaire Do You Want To Be President?

2011-12-11T22:31:00.000-08:00

Mitt Romney created a little bad publicity for himself during Saturday night's Republican debate in Iowa when he made a $10,000 wager with fellow candidate Rick Perry. But, don't worry he can afford this wager. You see, Romney is worth an estimated $202 million dollars, and tops the list among the wealthiest candidates running for president this year, all of which are millionaires. The only thing that could spoil this if Donald Trump should run for president as an independent candidate. You see, he's a billionaire worth an estimated $2.9 billion according Forbes. But, Trump actually claims to be worth $7 billion dollars.

President Obama is actually next up on the list of millionaires running for president, with an estimated net worth of $10.5 million. Last year alone, the Obama family managed to have an income in excess of $5.5 million dollars thanks largely to book royalties. And book royalties figure highly in the net worth of Newt Gingrich as well, who is worth an estimated $6.7 million. Gee, those book royalties sure make a lot of money for both Obama and Gingrich. Interestingly, one of these three wealthiest men, Romney, Obama or Gingrich is more likely than not to be the next president.

Herman Cain, who suspended his campaign after more than a few problems with women developed, might be actually be worth as much as $6.3 million. Gee, making pizzas sure brings in the dough!

And while some people might think that Ron Paul is a little goofy, he must be crazy as a fox, because the Texas congressman is worth an estimated $4.9 million dollars. Speaking of crazy like a fox, controversial Minnesota congresswoman Michele Bachmann is worth an estimated $3 million dollars.

Bring up the rear, there's Gov. Rick Perry worth an estimated $2.8 million dollars and finally Rick Santorum worth an estimated $2.5 million. Rick Perry could probably use that $10,000 wager money from Romney.

As wealthy as this group of presidential candidates may seem, they are relative paupers compared to at least two presidents we had. According to Huff Post Business, our first president, George Washington was worth $525 million dollars. But, John Kennedy's family estate was worth an estimated $1 billion dollars by comparison.

So, for as much talk as some people have about being the 99%, the voters are going to elect someone from the 1% to represent them in the White House once again in 2012. Some things never change it seems.

Alec Baldwin Pokes Fun At His Airline Problems On SNL

2011-12-11T15:19:00.000-08:00

Maybe it was making a bad situation a little worse, maybe it wasn't. but 30 ROCK star Alec Baldwin managed to have one of the standout moments on last night's SNL During the news segment, Alec Baldwin displayed some fine acting as an American Airlines captain who was supposedly there to offer the actor an apology from the airlines. It was a surprise moment and indeed very funny. But, it also became the latest poke in the nose from the actor who just doesn't seem to be able to say the last word about last week's incidents in which he behaved like a big baby when he refused to stop playing a game on his cellphone and slammed the lavatory door on the plane, resulting in his being ejected from the flight.

BTW: Although a good episode of SNL, largely due to the comic contributions of guest host Katy Perry last night, there were far less jokes about her boobs than had been previously rumored. In the final mix, many skits were apparently cut from the show last night. Sometimes these rehearsal skits make it the Internet in a few days. You might try to Google a few of these outtake skits.

Portland Trailblazers All-Star Brandon Roy Forced Into Early Retirement

2011-12-11T14:17:00.000-08:00

The All-Star player for the Portland Trailblazers, Brandon Roy, had to reluctantly announce his retirement at the age of 27 due to knee problems. For just five seasons, Roy provided the team a major effort starting with an average of 16.8 points a game during his rookie year, peaking at 22.6 points a game during his third season with the team. Last season, Roy had to miss 35 games due to injuries.

The team's orthopedist, Dr. Don Roberts examination of the Blazers star revealed way too much degenerative knee damage for Roy to continue his career as an NBA player, effectively ending his short carer with the stunning announcement on Friday.

Despite knee surgery, Roy had bone on bone friction in his knees, resulting in new damage each time he would attempt to run, jump and shoot the ball. The extent of this damage has to have serious consequences for his future life in retirement as well. He may have made a lot of money as a top NBA player, and has handsome good looks, but he leaves professional sports with some serious injuries that are sure to degrade his future personal life.

It's a very sad end to a career of a very fine professional basketball player.

Friday was a devastatingly bad day news day for the Portland Trailblazers. Not only was the bad news about Brandon Roy announced, but Blazers center Greg Oden suffered another injury recovery setback, and power forward LaMarcus Aldridge was sidelined with an ongoing heart related problem .

Movie Review: RAMPART

2011-12-11T13:25:00.000-08:00

Woody Harrelson is back with one of his greatest screen performances of his career in RAMPART, a top grade police drama about the infamous Rampart corruption scandal within the Los Angeles Police Department back in 1999. Woody Harrelson plays a disgraceful and tortured, corrupt character, ,who balances his private life between his two ex-wives. Critics polled at Rotten Tomatoes gave this fine film a solid 73% approval, and with good reason. This is a gripping tale, glued together by Woody Harrelson's fine acting.

Israeli filmmaker Oren Moverman deserves special credit here for putting together such a fine police drama about the problem plagued late 90's anti-gang unit of the Los Angeles Police Department that eventually implicated over 70 officers in some sort of wrongdoing including evidence tampering, perjury and other crimes in their frustrated efforts to control the gang problems within the city. The City Of Los Angeles eventually had pay out $125 in damages through lawsuits to persons wronged because of this widespread misconduct scandal.

This is easily one of the best films of 2011, and has been recently released in theaters in late November. It's certainly a notable film to watch.

The Bottom Line: One of 2011's best films, along with the fine acting skills of great actor Woody Harrelson, easily make this a fine choice to catch at your local theater. ***(Three Stars, or a very good film by all means).

No! God No! Brooke Mueller Spotted At Gun Range!

2011-12-11T12:46:00.000-08:00

Fresh from her arrest a week ago for cocaine possession and assault charges, Charlie Sheen's ex, Brooke Mueller was spotted at a gun range wearing a cowboy hat, waving a real-life handgun. Oh, that's just what you wanna see at this point. Someone with gun and anger control issues involved with guns. Nothing can possibly go wrong there, huh?

You also have to ask yourself, "Could Brooke possibly polishing up her gun shooting skills at this range or something?". Why is someone with drug and anger control issues even at such a place? This is absurd!

For her part, Brooke Mueller claims after her arrest on the drug and assault charge that she'll re-enter yet another drug rehab program, one more time, once again. I've lost count, which rebab visit number is this one?

One heck of a story, huh?

BTW, any time a story starts with, "No! God No!", you know it's gonna be good one, don't you?

Newly Blonde Katy Perry On SNL Tonight: Look For More Than Few Boob Jokes

2011-12-10T15:31:00.000-08:00

With her new and fresh shorter blonde hair do, Katy Perry holds a lot of promise as delivering a memorable new SNL tonight. Word on the street is to look for some really funny racy skits specially tailored for the star guest to excel in. Katy Perry also hinted that there will likely be far more than just a few boob jokes and skits tonight. Gee, who could have guessed that one?

The popular singer remarked about much she loved cast member Kristen Wiig. Perry noted, "And if she asked me to do anything. I'd totally do it".

Just last season, Katy's husband Russell Brand got to host SNL, so for Brand household it's becoming a family thing it seems.

Look for a few outlandish wardrobe changes tonight that highlight Katy Perry's boobs as well. You can see that one coming all the way up Broadway. But, all the fun should be in the details. It should be an enjoyable 90 minutes of laughs as well as few timely news item jokes as well.

BTW: Katy Perry also supplied the voice for the female Smurfette in the latest Smurf film.

Holy Christ! Ann Coulter Offers Up A New Bizarre SciFi Abortion Theory On Logo's A LIST:DALLAS

2011-12-08T13:11:00.001-08:00

Logo's A LIST:DALLAS must be looking for a trainwreck ahead or something? It seems that Satan's own Barbie Doll, conservative political commentator Ann Coulter had a really bizarre new political theory that she took time to espouse on an upcoming episode of the cable program. Coulter claimed that once the homosexual gene is identified, liberal yuppie parents would abort gay babies, so gay community supporters should become pro-life now to prevent these future abortions. Holy Christ! Who would even spend time thinking up such a bizarre scifi based theory about abortion?

Gee, thanks so much Ann for taking the very serious debate about abortion and moving it into the realm of THE TWILIGHT ZONE! Your comments sure help to clear up this serious moral and ethical debate considerably.

Someone Please Change Alec Baldwin's Diaper!

2011-12-08T11:51:00.000-08:00

Actor Alec Baldwin certainly went all out misbehaving the last couple of days. First he delays an American Airlines flight because he refused to stop playing a cellphone game, causing a confrontation with airline employees, calling them inappropriate names and acting up enough that he was thrown off the plane, further delaying a flight to New York that was already running a half hour behind schedule. Then Baldwin begins a serious of Tweets on his Twitter account talking about how miserable airlines have become with "Filthy planes, barely edible meals, cuts in service to less-traveled locations", and even comparing airlines to a "greyhound bus" experience, creating anger over at the Greyhound company for his comments. And Baldwin also tweeted that the airlines are a place where "Catholic school gym teachers from the 1950's find jobs as flight attendants". Oh, what a lovely image!

Oh, did I forget to mention how Baldwin slammed the lavatory door so blessed hard that even the flight crew in the locked cabin were concerned about what was going on with the actor? Gee, and this guy wonders why he got kicked off the flight. He's lucky a federal Marshal didn't arrest him on some federal charge or something.

Today, Baldwin did apologize to others on the American Airline flight for causing them a further delay while he threw his little tirade. And he pulled down his Twitter account, deleting his comments over the last couple of days. Well, it's a start. But, now could someone please change his diaper? We've got a fussy baby here!

Harry Morgan Dead At 96

2011-12-07T13:45:00.000-08:00

Harry Morgan, the stone-faced actor best known for his roles in TV's M*A*S*H. and DRAGNET has died at the age of 96. His movie and film career spanned from 1942 until 1999, when he finally officially retired from acting work. Morgan was always known as being a a dependable actor with a dry and wry style that made him a unique acting entity. Rather than playing a leading man, Morgan always seemed like a good second bananas in film work. But, it was M*A*S*H. that really made him a beloved household name more than any other role he performed.

Morgan was unfortunately never really a legend to most people. But, he played a great everyman character in every film or show he appeared in. He was a good window dressing actor. But, I thought he was great in DRAGNET, as Joe Friday's dependable sidekick, and great in M*A*S*H. as well, where he appeared a little more vocal as a little less stoic than usual stiff self. His unique voice was always recognizable.

Harry Morgan was always like an old Rambler. Not pretty, but very dependable.

Thanks for the great memories, Harry. You were a legend in my book to me.

Former Illinois Governor Sentenced To 14 Years For Corruption

2011-12-07T11:42:00.000-08:00

Flamboyant haired former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich was sentenced to 14 years in prison today. It was one of the harshest sentences ever for a corrupt Illinois elected official. Some of the charges included an attempt to sell the vacated senate seat of Senator Barack Obama after he won a historic election becoming America's first African American president. While Blagojevich is a democrat, he succeeded republican Governor George Ryan who is currently serving a 6 1/2 year sentence for his corruption convictions. Corruption in Illinois politics appears to be very bipartisan.

Serbian American Rod Blagojevich was once a figure of the ethnic diversity of the state. But, as it appeared he was very corrupt, he became an embarrassment to the Serbian American community, who resented his image of dishonesty.

Today, in court, Blagojevich offered up an apology for his corrupt conduct while in office, however, Judge James Zagel appeared unmoved, and imposed the harsh sentence.

It had to be very disappointing to President Obama when his former seat in the senate wasn't treated with respect and Blagojevich basically attempted to sell his seat to the highest bidder.

Blagojevich's hair was always a conversation piece by the late night comics as well. It appears that he's a huge Elvis fan, and it appears to a cut influenced by the King's own style. Now, he gets to do the "jailhouse rock" just like his idol.

Fashion Blogger Model Lauren Scruggs Horribly Injured In Aircraft Ground Accident

2011-12-06T15:04:00.000-08:00

An absolutely gut-wrenching accident has horribly injured model, fashion blogger and GOSSIP GIRL wardrobe department intern, Lauren Scruggs. The beautiful 23 year old blond walked into the moving propeller while exiting a small aircraft. The Plano, TX born model had viewed some Christmas lights by air, and apparently didn't notice that the aircraft's propeller was still turning and exited the plane right into the path of turning propeller, chopping off her left hand, cutting into her head,causing shoulder and brain injuries, as well eye injury. It was absolutely a horrible accident. She is still alive, which seems like a miracle, but the extent of the brain injury is still unknown at this time.

Aviation experts think that it very poor procedure on the part of the pilot to allow passengers to board or deboard the aircraft with the propeller turning.

The young model has faced several surgeries since the accident, and is recovering in a Texas hospital right now.

MISS USA 2010 Tweets False Statements After Her Arrest On DUI Charge

2011-12-05T01:25:00.000-08:00

In 2010, when young Rima Fakih won the crown of MISS USA 2010, she broke the barrier by becoming the first Arab American and Muslim to win this beauty contest. Saturday morning she broke another barrier as well.....one of the first top MISS USA winners ever to be arrested. Although, alcohol is supposed to be strictly taboo in the Muslim culture and banned in many Arab states, it appears that Fakih was intoxicated to police officers who arrested her on suspicion of drunk driving in Michigan.

Fakih must be taking scandal denial lessons from former presidential candidate Herman Cain or something. She at first tweeted a public denial claiming that she wasn't even in Michigan at the time, and that it had to be another "Fakih", and not her. Then as more news sources such as ABC News began to report her arrest, Fakih deleted her intentionally misleading Tweets.

This seems to be the latest thing these days, get involved in some scandal, then lie about it, pretending it never ever happened. Apparently, being a lying ass sack of shit isn't just for politicians these days.

Hey, another beauty contest winner does the crown proud, huh?

DVD Review: WRONG TURN 4 BLOODY BEGINNINGS

2011-12-04T14:34:00.000-08:00

WRONG TURN 4 BLOODY BEGINNINGS is the latest entry in this tasteless slasher horror trash series, that acts as a prequel to the other three films in the series. In this latest installment, we find One Eye, Three Fingers and Saw Tooth locked in a mental institution for the criminally insane back in 1974 as children, who are able to trigger a mass escape of the patient inmates who then go crazy murdering the staff in absurdly violent manners. It's real gory horror trash here for sure, almost laughably violent because it's so over-the-top disgusting.

Now move ahead to 2011, when a group of young snowmobile riders get lost and end up stranded at the long closed down insane asylum. Well, you can see all the way up Broadway where this generic slasher horror trash film is headed, can't you? Certainly, the young folks end up disappearing, horribly murdered one by one by the insane brothers. It's predictable, but appealing enough of a thrill ride if gore trash is your thing.

If you like your films sick enough that most people would lose their lunch watching, then this trash-o-rama direct to DVD feature is for you. And with it's snowy Winter setting, WRONG TURN 4 makes a perfect enough Winter horror flick to curl up with a hot cup of chocolate with and a warm blanket.

The Bottom Line: Nothing really new to see here. About as predictable and routine as horror movie trash goes. But, still an enjoyable enough horror thrill ride to marginally recommend. A well produced trash film from FOX. **1/2 Two and a half stars, or a little better than fair.

Brooke Mueller Arrested For Assault And Drug Possession

2011-12-04T14:13:00.000-08:00

Who could have ever guessed that someone once associated with Charlie Sheen could ever have problems with drugs or violence? But, Charlie Sheen's ex-wife, Brooke Mueller made quite a week of it by assaulting someone at Aspen's Escobar nightclub before getting herself arrested on suspicion of felony possession of cocaine as well as third degree assault charges. Brooke Muelller had previously been in and out of rehab programs before.

You only have to wonder how Charlie Sheen could have ever let this one get away. Brooke and Charlie have so much in common. They seem like a perfect match!

Well, we only have one word for things here.......A better than usual booking photo, courtesy of the Aspen Police Department.

Britney Spears Turns 30

2011-12-03T13:18:00.000-08:00

Pop music icon, Britney Spears, spent a rather quiet 30th birthday ice skating in Houston. This is a far cry from her former reckless days of wildness, and more proof that she's matured over the years. Only a few scant years ago, the pop star seemed headed for self-destruction, appearing on the edge of an emotional breakdown when she performed weird stunts such as shaving her head bald or flashing her private parts in public. For a time, she appeared to be a woefully unfit mother as well, But, all of this appears to be well behind her now. Everything is all well in the world of Britney Spears right now, who is deeply in love with her boyfriend, Jason Trawick.

The new, more mature Britney Spears is also giving back as well. She's performing a free concert in Mexico City tonight. And next week she wraps her current world tour through South America.

Britney Spears had a number of well wishers who sent her heartfelt messages of joy for her joining the 30 club. These included celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, Lady Gaga, Nicki Minaj, among others.

Congratulations, Britney Spears. You had us worried a few years ago. But, now you appear to be both happy and in well control of your life. That's all well and good. Welcome to the 30 club from Wizbang Pop as well.

Christopher Lee: Real Life Badass

2011-11-30T15:07:00.000-08:00

Hammer Films horror movie legendary great, Christopher Lee, not only plays a badass on-screen. He's a real life badass as well. Christopher Lee was once part of the elite unconventional warfare Special Operations Executive group formed by Winston Churchill himself. The group also comprised of Ian Fleming among others, and served to inspire Fleming to write the James Bond series of novels, influenced by the outrageous and dangerous covert missions of the group meant to damage the Axis through extremely dangerous sabotage missions. Many of the missions were such "ungentlemanly" type of warfare that the nature of the type of extreme actions still remains classified to this day. And Christopher Lee isn't breaking his sworn code of silence about his actions either. He remains mum on his own actions in this group.

During the war, SOE was involved in organizing resistance movements against the Nazis in countries like France and was involved in Operation Foxley, a plan to assassinate Adolf Hitler. But, Christopher Lee isn't talking about what he did as a part of this elite British series organization that laid down the framework for the modern spy.

In the 1974 film, MAN WITH THE GOLDEN GUN, Christopher Lee got the opportunity to relive his old spy days by starring as the villain, Scaramanga, in this great Ian Fleming big screen adaptation of a James Bond novel, which also starred Rod Stewart's girlfriend Britt Ekland, as well the late Herve Villechaize, who later became a big part of the success of ABC TV's FANTASY ISLAND series.

Sex School Opens In Vienna

2011-11-30T12:44:00.000-08:00

Sex class is in session in Vienna, Austria where students over 16 can enroll at a new sex school to become better lovers. The controversial new sex school isn't without critics or some protesters. However, students seem to be enrolling at the new school, led by Swedish-born headmistress Ylva-Maria Thompson. Thompson was a presenter of erotic films on Swedish pay TV during the 1990's and a well known erotic artist who had one art presentation with 100 cast models of women's vaginas.

The new school is said to be the world's first college of "applied sexuality", according to Thompson. Well, isn't life just grand! No word whether students can apply for financial aid to afford the 1400 British pounds tuition rate, though. And I'm not sure how the job outlook is for those that flunk out either.

And guess what, students will live in a mixed dormitory setting where they are apparently encouraged to practice their homework with each other, at least according to one report in Britain's, THE DAILY MAIL. But, oh, my God, those finals!

Herman Cain's Claimed Mistress Provides New Jokes For Late Night Comics

2011-11-28T15:57:00.000-08:00

The late night comics are going to have a field day again. Now, it seems that a woman has come forth, claiming that she has been having a 13 year affair with Herman Cain. She claims that sex with the presidential candidate only stopped shortly before he announced for president earlier this year, but their emotional relationship still continues. Ginger White, an Atlanta housewife claimed that she met Herman Cain in the 1990's and he spent freely on her, buying her lavish gifts. For his part, once again, as usual, Herman Cain is denying things. Only a few days, Herman Cain denied that he paid out cash settlements to some women whom he was said to sexually harass. Then, he later changed his story on FOX News and acknowledged the cash payouts.

This is only the latest problem to hit his presidential campaign, which is now rapidly sagging in the polls as "family values" voters in the Republican Party are beginning to turn from Cain toward other more serious candidates as Cain becomes the butt of late night humor and jokes.

This also marks another presidential candidate making the news for the wrong reasons. Michele Bachmann made news the last few days for complaining about a few notes from the song, "Lyin' Ass Bitch" being used to her introduce to an interview on Jimmy Fallon's late night talk show. Then, Bachmann was caught misrepresenting the immigration policy of fellow candidate, Newt Gingrich on FOX & FRIENDS over the weekend.

Sex scandals seem tailor-made for late night humor. Bill Clinton provided David Letterman literally hundreds of jokes, for example. For the late night comic, sex scandals are the gift that keeps on giving.

The Doors Issue Limited Edition L.A. WOMAN Singles Box Set

2011-11-27T17:25:00.000-08:00

While the release date for the 40th anniversary edition of L.A. Woman has been pushed up to January 24, for the two and five cd sets, a special limited edition box set of four high quality vinyl singles from the upcoming expanded L.A. WOMAN album has just been released, limited to just 4,000 copies. It sells for just under $50. It includes singles of "Love Her Madly", "Riders On The Storm", "The Changeling" and a fourth disc of chatter from the band. Guitarist Robbie Krieger is especially a fan of vinyl, who loves the sound of it far more than cds.

The four single box set includes both the original songs, plus an alternate version of each song on the B side. However, with only 4,000 copies in existence and the high price just under $50, don't expect causal buyers to opt for this. This item is strictly for hardcore fans of the band.

In January, the expanded 40th anniversary edition of L.A. WOMAN will be available as the standard release, but for just under $100 the special collector's version of the album will be available as a five cd box set. It is available for pre-order on The Doors website. Both albums will include the original album, plus unreleased alternate versions of the albums ten tracks. A rare unreleased studio version of "Rock Me' with keyboardist Ray Manzarek on vocals along with the unreleased Jim Morrison song, "She Smells So Nice" will be released on the album along with plenty of band chatter on the five disc box set version.

With the surviving members of The Doors aging, it only seems to better to release these rare recordings now than never.

Who's Really To Blame For Michele Bachmann's Ill-Advised Appearance On Jimmy Fallon's Late Night Talk Show?

2011-11-25T13:57:00.000-08:00

Jimmy Fallon returned to NBC and took over from Conan O'Brien after O'Brien left the network in a huff because of his hurt pride after his TONIGHT SHOW ratings tanked. Jimmy Fallon has done a remarkably good job since taking over, recreating a show that's uniquely his own and very quirky. In the spirit of that quirkiness, earlier this week, also-ran presidential candidate, Michele Bachmann, made a surprising, and probably ill advised appearance on the show. Certainly, as could be expected, something went wrong here.

When Bachmann walked on the stage, the band leader for the musical group, The Roots, thought it would be real funny and tongue-in-cheek to play a few instrumental notes from the controversial Fishbone song, "Lyin' Ass Bitch". Certainly, that was a poor decision and not respectful of a guest. However, Jimmy Fallon himself was respectful of her, making few jokes at her expense. But, because most people surrounding Bachmann are hardly well versed in modern hip hop culture, it only took days for her campaign to finally figure out what the instrumental's title actually was and that it was an insult of sorts. But,instead of just letting this little slight just pass, like most politicians usually always do, Bachmann made a major issue out of it, hoping to portray herself as some grand victim here, hoping that would somehow score a few points for her lagging campaign, which presently has just about 2-4% support nationally.

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On her own political website. Michele Bachmann's own official campaign site, proudly proclaimed that, "Michele Bachmann Brings The Funny On Jimmy Fallon", as though she knew that that her appearance would generate some comedy value. But, she hardly played the role of good sport later, and demanded apologies from just about everyone that she could . Some others were quick to jump on this "victim card" bandwagon as well, including both Rush Limbaugh and Glenn Beck, neither of which miss any low-rent opportunity to create an issue out of practically nothing,.

Both, Jimmy Fallon and NBC offered Bachmann their apologies. And the band leader of The Roots was suspended, but a few die-hard Bachmann supporters still would like their Shakespearian "pound of flesh" from someone because of this minor incident. Bachmann continued to play up the victim card for at least two days on the issue as well. But, compared to some late night jokes about Herman Cain being some sort of sex offender, or Rick Perry being incoherent, this joke at Michele Bachmann's expense seemed rather slight by comparison.

Bachmann had to realize that her appearance on Jimmy Fallon would largely be to poke some fun at her expense. How could she not but see this? Her later indignation at the interview now reeks of an air of mock indignation more than anything. She has now largely replaced Sarah Palin as a bizarre sideshow candidate with zero chance of being elected, who only seeks out outrageous photo opportunities such as Jimmy Fallon's show to grace her own ego. That's a far cry from the more serious candidates in the race who are actually trying to get elected president.

Certainly, Jimmy Fallon's show deserves some discredit for not respecting a guest. But, someone who deliberately puts themselves in such a spot shouldn't be held entirely blameless either. Yet, Bachmann doesn't appear quite ready yet to drop this whole matter. Today, she expressed disappointment that the president of NBC didn't personally apologize to her rather than some company executive. Apparently, each day she continues to raise the bar of just what she expects in the way of a bigger and bigger apology.

Who could have ever guessed that the "queen of rage" could be so finicky?

Major League WTF?: Cats That Look Like Hitler

2011-11-24T13:08:00.000-08:00

Cats are a great pet. But, some have some strange markings that give them an eerie look much like the former leader of the Third Reich. In fact, so many cats have this creepy Hitler look that there's even some websites devoted to folks sending in pictures of their Hitler cats. Some cats are even named Kitler, of all things! Unbelievable, but true, and funny!

One strange cat lover website, Catsthatlooklikehitler.com, even is involved in animal rescue attempts, seeking to rescue cats from being euthanized. That's a switch, someone saving Hitler from the gas chamber.

Michelle Bachmann Steamed About Jimmy Fallon Interview

2011-11-23T13:52:00.000-08:00

Michelle Bachmann is a little bit steamed about her interview last week over on the Jimmy Fallon show, although her handlers should have realized that it was probably to have a few jokes at her expense. But, what really has her steamed is The Roots band chose to use the R&B song by Fishbone,"Lyin' Ass Bitch" to introduce her. That part still has her very angry. And she probably has a little sympathy from neutral observers as well.

The fact of the matter is that she deserved more respect than this. It didn't seem very fair to invite a guest on and then hit them below the belt this hard. Michelle Bachmann proved to good a sport to even appear on the show. the producers for Jimmy Fallon's show needed to show her some fairness, even if they intended to have a few jokes. Fair is fair. You should always be a gentleman.

Jimmy Fallon has already stepped as a gentleman here, making an apology for the poor song choice. But, Bachmann would like NBC to offer an apology as well. Jimmy Fallon's a very decent man, and getting his apology is probably about as good as this little incident might get. But, if it makes Bachmann happy, then maybe NBC should at least make the effort to issue a nice letter to the politician. It might help.

You also have to wonder why it took an entire week for Bachmann's campaign to respond to this incident. One clue, you can't be president and then think about a crisis for a whole week before you decide to act. But, the public can rest assured here. Bachmann is highly unlikely to a presidential nominee next year. Newt Gingrich has now moved ahead of the crowded GOP pack.