I thought about deleting this blog, but I'm not ready to do that yet so, for now, I'll just say good-bye and leave it here for others to stumble upon. It's been fun and I thank each and every one of you for reading and for your comments.
Sometimes we just have to say good-bye and part ways. It's usually when reality slaps us in the face with a truth we never wanted to face. It hurts, but that's life - without the fantasies.
As an aside: You can lie to others and maybe never be found out - but the one person you can't lie to is yourself. Well knowing you, as I have, maybe you can. Oh, and now I know why you didn't want me to publish what I had originally written about the dcsc2 LAN. Like I've said many times before, you're so transparent.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
America's Got Talent - The Results and Only Four are Left
First, I have to say, I'm amazed that through all those dumb, stupid acts the final 10 displayed talent. I can't imagine getting so close - like one step away from the finals - and going home.
When Smage Bros. were called on stage, along with iLuminate, I was hopeful, even though I knew America voted for iLuminate. I'm not sure where the Smage Bros. will take their motorcycle act, but I'm sure America will hear more of them.
Whilst I enjoy iLuminate's talents, I'll be disappointed if they go all the way. Even though Howie considers them to be the "Second most fun I have in the dark."
I wonder how much influence the judges have on the voting? Last night they weren't thrilled with Miami All Stars, and only Piers raved about Lys Agnes. Neither of them went through and I wonder if the judges' critique had an impact?
Lys stood, tears welled in her eyes, as if she foresaw her forthcoming fate in some crystal ball. She was kicking herself for taking a risk, but shouldn't. Her future doesn't lie in the hands of this show and she will undoubtedly realize a successful career in the industry.
As for Miami All Stars - oh my, ya gotta love 'em. The leader of the pack gave the most exquisite thank you in his Lantino accent that it choked me up a bit.
With only a 1% difference in the votes, Poplyfe and Landon Swank took the stage next. Magicians have never seen the final 10 so, it was unlikely America voted for him, even though he's talented. Poplyfe, of course, is my favorite. I just love the sincere sweetness that radiates from the lead singer. There were no mixed emotions here. If one of them made it, it had to be Poplyfe for me. And it was :D
I lost track of who was still standing during the "entertainment" part of the show. Nick, the skit wasn't funny. Not blaming you, but the writers, obviously. And Howie, seeing bare skin on your head is, frankly, enough. America isn't ready for the Full Monty.
Much more impressive was Il Divo, the classical cross-over quartet, who had the judges standing and Piers smiling at the end of the song "Wicked Game." If you've never heard them do "Mama" it's worth a visit to YouTube.
Following their performance the next two acts, Silhouettes and West Springfield Dance Team, were called on stage. I don't want to take anything away from West Springfield, but this was a no-brainer for me. If Silhouettes hadn't won, I'd be unable to write this post due to shock.
The heart-breaking news for me came when Landou Eugene Murphy, Jr. and Anna Graceman awaited the results. They're both such talented vocalists in their own right. Who do I really want to see move on, and why?
Murphy has a wife and kids. He's struggled most of his life as a car washer. He's not getting any younger and this might be his last shot at fame. Then, again, certainly some agent spotted him and he'd be signed to appear in Vegas despite the results.
Anna is only 11 years old. She has her whole life ahead of her and finishing in the top 10 is certainly not failure. She's supported by her parents, so wouldn't need the money, except for maybe her college education. And headlining in Vegas, might change her too much at such an impressionable age.
Yeah, I had to go with Murphy and when Nick announced Landou Eugene Murphy, Jr. I was happy until I saw the emotional tears streaming down the cheeks of an 11- year-old, heartbroken kid. Chin up, Anna, your life is just beginning, even if your soul is a thousand years old.
And to think, when I was a toddler, singing and dancing my heart out on stage, family and friends thought I was so talented. LOL! Yeah, I would have gotten buzzed by all three judges shortly after the beginning. Unless, of course, it was on cuteness. Hey, where was Little Miss Perfect when I was a kid?
When Smage Bros. were called on stage, along with iLuminate, I was hopeful, even though I knew America voted for iLuminate. I'm not sure where the Smage Bros. will take their motorcycle act, but I'm sure America will hear more of them.
Whilst I enjoy iLuminate's talents, I'll be disappointed if they go all the way. Even though Howie considers them to be the "Second most fun I have in the dark."
I wonder how much influence the judges have on the voting? Last night they weren't thrilled with Miami All Stars, and only Piers raved about Lys Agnes. Neither of them went through and I wonder if the judges' critique had an impact?
Lys stood, tears welled in her eyes, as if she foresaw her forthcoming fate in some crystal ball. She was kicking herself for taking a risk, but shouldn't. Her future doesn't lie in the hands of this show and she will undoubtedly realize a successful career in the industry.
As for Miami All Stars - oh my, ya gotta love 'em. The leader of the pack gave the most exquisite thank you in his Lantino accent that it choked me up a bit.
With only a 1% difference in the votes, Poplyfe and Landon Swank took the stage next. Magicians have never seen the final 10 so, it was unlikely America voted for him, even though he's talented. Poplyfe, of course, is my favorite. I just love the sincere sweetness that radiates from the lead singer. There were no mixed emotions here. If one of them made it, it had to be Poplyfe for me. And it was :D
I lost track of who was still standing during the "entertainment" part of the show. Nick, the skit wasn't funny. Not blaming you, but the writers, obviously. And Howie, seeing bare skin on your head is, frankly, enough. America isn't ready for the Full Monty.
Much more impressive was Il Divo, the classical cross-over quartet, who had the judges standing and Piers smiling at the end of the song "Wicked Game." If you've never heard them do "Mama" it's worth a visit to YouTube.
Following their performance the next two acts, Silhouettes and West Springfield Dance Team, were called on stage. I don't want to take anything away from West Springfield, but this was a no-brainer for me. If Silhouettes hadn't won, I'd be unable to write this post due to shock.
The heart-breaking news for me came when Landou Eugene Murphy, Jr. and Anna Graceman awaited the results. They're both such talented vocalists in their own right. Who do I really want to see move on, and why?
Murphy has a wife and kids. He's struggled most of his life as a car washer. He's not getting any younger and this might be his last shot at fame. Then, again, certainly some agent spotted him and he'd be signed to appear in Vegas despite the results.
Anna is only 11 years old. She has her whole life ahead of her and finishing in the top 10 is certainly not failure. She's supported by her parents, so wouldn't need the money, except for maybe her college education. And headlining in Vegas, might change her too much at such an impressionable age.
Yeah, I had to go with Murphy and when Nick announced Landou Eugene Murphy, Jr. I was happy until I saw the emotional tears streaming down the cheeks of an 11- year-old, heartbroken kid. Chin up, Anna, your life is just beginning, even if your soul is a thousand years old.
And to think, when I was a toddler, singing and dancing my heart out on stage, family and friends thought I was so talented. LOL! Yeah, I would have gotten buzzed by all three judges shortly after the beginning. Unless, of course, it was on cuteness. Hey, where was Little Miss Perfect when I was a kid?
America's Got Talent - Finally the Finalists
It seemed to take forever to get to this stage, where talent abounds. From 100,000 acts (most of the dumbest talent I've ever seen) down to 10. But they couldn't have started the show with a better opening.
I believe that some people simply feel deeper than others and they absorb all the emotion that vibrates throughout our planet. There is no better example of what I'm talking about than Michael Grimm, last year's AGT winner.
He opened tonight's show with "Stay With Me" and I could feel the song, because he sang it with every fiber of his being. He doesn't sing, he experiences a song - lives it - in such a way that his audiences are drawn into his time in space.
To perform a heart-wrenching song with such emotion, when you're sitting on top of the world, just goes to show how talented he is and how much he really deserved to win last year. And I knew it from the first time I saw him perform. :D
Fortunately, they didn't follow his opening with another singer. They opted to bring out the Miami All Stars, who blew me away last week. This week, not so much. The football theme in honor of NFL Kick-Off Week, felt more like a cheer than a dance. The mascot, a chicken, was just cheesy.
But they weren't the only talent to take a risk. A gigantic risk was taken by Lys Agnes, a singer who last week fused rock with opera, did it again this week with an Arrowsmith song, "Dream On." Love the song, love her, but not too sure I liked her switch from soprano to contralto. Frankly, I wish she had sung the song in her normal register, which is fantabulous. The dream catcher she stood in was awesome cool, though. And, no, Sharon, not at all like Cher, who has a one-octave range.
Whilst her performance had magical overtones, Landon Swank brought the real magic. In a New York style apartment setting, he appeared like a suave and debonaire gentleman, conjuring a tablet in his hand, that when put in his mouth, turned into a ewwwwwwwwwwwwwww goldfish. Yeah, he spat it in a glass. Double ewwwwwwwww. Then, he put his hand through the glass aquarium and released da wittle fishy. I've got this one figured out, but I can't give away the secret. :D
What I can't figure out is how an 11-year-old can sing with the same emotion as Michael Grimm, unless her soul is much older than her years. Anna Graceman, sang, sans piano, "True Colors." I don't think it was quite as good as previous performances, but she took a risk by separating herself from the piano.
Next up...Silhouettes, who hit the nail on the head this week by telling a story in dance, of why Americans should be proud. "Believe" which they spelled out at the end of their exquisitely picturesque dance earned them a standing O.
And from the beautiful to the daring, the Smage Bros. were next on stage. Frankly, I'm beginning to believe that the kid who doesn't ride is the bravest of all. Tonight he was hit in the head and leg, as the motorcycles zoomed around the stage, up and down the planks and wheelied across a slender, metal bar. Their act is nothing short of jaw-dropping, breath-holding entertainment.
But the one act that never fails to entertain me is Poplyfe, who also received a standing O, after their Michael Jackson medley. Both last week and this week, they took a risk by performing songs made popular by all-time great artists and amazingly turned 'em out even better.
The one act, who I believe, didn't even deserve to be there from the start - West Springfield Horror Dance Team - is finally getting old to the judges. Their gory, zombie routine tonight was, as the judges said, "predictable."
Now you might call Landou Eugene Murphy, Jr. predictable, as well. He's a crooner and there's not much a crooner can do, but croon. Of course when you croon with a voice like Sinatra and perform with the style of Dean Martin, all to a big band, it's more than just singing. He made the stage come alive with "Kick in the Head." Wonder if Vegas has any crooners? Even Piers said that the one act he'd shell out money to see is Murphy, to which Sharon said, that's saying a lot coming from someone as tight as Piers.
Last to perform, and an act which I've always viewed as "just another glow in the dark act" really lit up the stage tonight. iLuminate was electrifying, but I'm sure it doesn't translate as well via satellite.
There were 10 very talented and deserving acts tonight - well nine. But only four are going through and this time it's all on America's shoulders. *sighs* I'm just glad it doesn't rest on mine. Although, I know I'm voting for Poplyfe.
I believe that some people simply feel deeper than others and they absorb all the emotion that vibrates throughout our planet. There is no better example of what I'm talking about than Michael Grimm, last year's AGT winner.
He opened tonight's show with "Stay With Me" and I could feel the song, because he sang it with every fiber of his being. He doesn't sing, he experiences a song - lives it - in such a way that his audiences are drawn into his time in space.
To perform a heart-wrenching song with such emotion, when you're sitting on top of the world, just goes to show how talented he is and how much he really deserved to win last year. And I knew it from the first time I saw him perform. :D
Fortunately, they didn't follow his opening with another singer. They opted to bring out the Miami All Stars, who blew me away last week. This week, not so much. The football theme in honor of NFL Kick-Off Week, felt more like a cheer than a dance. The mascot, a chicken, was just cheesy.
But they weren't the only talent to take a risk. A gigantic risk was taken by Lys Agnes, a singer who last week fused rock with opera, did it again this week with an Arrowsmith song, "Dream On." Love the song, love her, but not too sure I liked her switch from soprano to contralto. Frankly, I wish she had sung the song in her normal register, which is fantabulous. The dream catcher she stood in was awesome cool, though. And, no, Sharon, not at all like Cher, who has a one-octave range.
Whilst her performance had magical overtones, Landon Swank brought the real magic. In a New York style apartment setting, he appeared like a suave and debonaire gentleman, conjuring a tablet in his hand, that when put in his mouth, turned into a ewwwwwwwwwwwwwww goldfish. Yeah, he spat it in a glass. Double ewwwwwwwww. Then, he put his hand through the glass aquarium and released da wittle fishy. I've got this one figured out, but I can't give away the secret. :D
What I can't figure out is how an 11-year-old can sing with the same emotion as Michael Grimm, unless her soul is much older than her years. Anna Graceman, sang, sans piano, "True Colors." I don't think it was quite as good as previous performances, but she took a risk by separating herself from the piano.
Next up...Silhouettes, who hit the nail on the head this week by telling a story in dance, of why Americans should be proud. "Believe" which they spelled out at the end of their exquisitely picturesque dance earned them a standing O.
And from the beautiful to the daring, the Smage Bros. were next on stage. Frankly, I'm beginning to believe that the kid who doesn't ride is the bravest of all. Tonight he was hit in the head and leg, as the motorcycles zoomed around the stage, up and down the planks and wheelied across a slender, metal bar. Their act is nothing short of jaw-dropping, breath-holding entertainment.
But the one act that never fails to entertain me is Poplyfe, who also received a standing O, after their Michael Jackson medley. Both last week and this week, they took a risk by performing songs made popular by all-time great artists and amazingly turned 'em out even better.
The one act, who I believe, didn't even deserve to be there from the start - West Springfield Horror Dance Team - is finally getting old to the judges. Their gory, zombie routine tonight was, as the judges said, "predictable."
Now you might call Landou Eugene Murphy, Jr. predictable, as well. He's a crooner and there's not much a crooner can do, but croon. Of course when you croon with a voice like Sinatra and perform with the style of Dean Martin, all to a big band, it's more than just singing. He made the stage come alive with "Kick in the Head." Wonder if Vegas has any crooners? Even Piers said that the one act he'd shell out money to see is Murphy, to which Sharon said, that's saying a lot coming from someone as tight as Piers.
Last to perform, and an act which I've always viewed as "just another glow in the dark act" really lit up the stage tonight. iLuminate was electrifying, but I'm sure it doesn't translate as well via satellite.
There were 10 very talented and deserving acts tonight - well nine. But only four are going through and this time it's all on America's shoulders. *sighs* I'm just glad it doesn't rest on mine. Although, I know I'm voting for Poplyfe.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
How Forgiving Are You? Or Are You Forgiving At All?
I have to admit that I'm not a forgiving person - once I've been betrayed, an apology doesn't turn things around for me. I live by the motto, "Shit on me once, shame on you. Shit on me twice, shame on me." You'd have to be some kind of idiot to go back for more, right?
It's not that I hold onto the betrayal - no, I won't do that to myself. When I finally realize that a person screwed me over, I simply create this fantabulous scenario in my mind where, he/she suffers greatly and then dies. Yes, in my mind they must die for their iniquities. But then it's over and done, whist never forgotten. It's just easier to forgive when they're dead and gone.
My mother had a daughter once - many years before giving birth to me - who had a tribe of little bastards and one day, after many betrayals - none of which I forgot - I placed them all in a cabin up in Sedona in the middle of winter and Kaboom baybay. Blown to smithereens. The final betrayal and they've all been dead to me ever since. So, yeah, I write my little fantasy stories and it gets me through life. We all, each and everyone of us, have our ways of coping with life. This works for me.
When I was three I was raped by my sitter's brother. No biggie, because consciously I didn't remember the incident; the memory - not the event - came much later and he was no more than maybe 12 from what I recollect.
Throughout my childhood I was molested by every pervert that came within close proximity. A friend's grandfather, a man from my father's business, who "Finds great pleasure in taking a little girl to kiddyland and the zoo," (my mother was all too willing to be free of me for a day - no I never forgave her)a man who owned a little neighborhood grocery store, the father of kids I babysat with once, a customer of my father's, who would let me sit on his lap and pretend to drive the car. What a thrill for a little girl - even more of a thrill for a pervert. LOL! Oh, and let us not forget, my mother's husband, who told a 10 year old it was okay, because he wasn't her real dad. Yeah, these things happen even with the well-to-do.
In my teens, I suffered two rapes. The first by a high school friend. The other by a man who offered to help me out of a sticky situation. LOL. There were two attempted rapes in my early teens that I was fortunate to avoid. One, due to the kindness of a stranger and another due to a bottle of wine. Several years after the second rape, I encountered that "helpful" man in church. He was taking collections and sat with his wife and kids. When he came to my pew, the blood drained from his face. Wonder why? Of course if he was repentant, God can forgive him. I'm not God.
So, can I forgive all these perverts that caused me harm? Can I even make excuses for them? For the longest time I thought I was some awful person to attract these kinds of people. I know better now. I know it wasn't my fault. But the memories are still there, buried deep in my subconscious, locked safely away until something happens that allows them to escape.
They escape when I let my guard down and semi-trust someone. (Yeah, unbelievable that I have trust issues LOL) only to learn I've, once again, been betrayed. Then, I have the daunting task of gathering all those memories and locking them up again.(Do traumatized children ever really forget the trauma?).
I've never been good at relationships, because I'm not trusting; therefore, I avoid them. I remain uninvolved and uncommitted. I'm actually much happier that way. Life shouldn't be taken seriously and when one allows the seriousness of a relationship to enter their lives, they foolishly expect fairytale endings. Well honestly, folks, what comes after "...and they lived happily ever after?" The end! LOFL!
If you open the door to a person you know is untrustworthy, you deserve a kick in the ass. But what constitutes a liar or a cheat? Can you forgive little white lies? "No that dress doesn't make your ass look big." Strangely, I can't. That's a betrayal to me. How could someone who cares about you, let you go out in an outfit that makes your ass look big? I could never trust that person again. Can you forgive someone who cheats on their taxes? Well, for heaven's sake, who doesn't? But if they cheat the government so easily, what would prevent them from cheating on anything/anyone else?
Is it okay if you're in a relationship, to flirt? If you're a known flirt, which I am, and you know I am, guess it should be over-looked, right? Or is it dependent upon how far the flirtations go? If someone flirts with explicit sexual connotations and innuendos, with the same person, not just once, but over a period of months, even inviting the person to meet with them, is that flirting or cheating? Should that be over-looked, forgiven and forgotten? Dealt with? Is it an unfortunate "Mistake" if it happened over and over? Is it okay to lie (deny) about what happened for "Good reason." Can you ever trust the person again? Or are you just being a dope, who is taking a little indiscretion too seriously?
So, how forgiving are you? Or are you forgiving at all?
You can post your comments anonymously. But please do comment. Too often people read and think their comment or input isn't important - it really is.
It's not that I hold onto the betrayal - no, I won't do that to myself. When I finally realize that a person screwed me over, I simply create this fantabulous scenario in my mind where, he/she suffers greatly and then dies. Yes, in my mind they must die for their iniquities. But then it's over and done, whist never forgotten. It's just easier to forgive when they're dead and gone.
My mother had a daughter once - many years before giving birth to me - who had a tribe of little bastards and one day, after many betrayals - none of which I forgot - I placed them all in a cabin up in Sedona in the middle of winter and Kaboom baybay. Blown to smithereens. The final betrayal and they've all been dead to me ever since. So, yeah, I write my little fantasy stories and it gets me through life. We all, each and everyone of us, have our ways of coping with life. This works for me.
When I was three I was raped by my sitter's brother. No biggie, because consciously I didn't remember the incident; the memory - not the event - came much later and he was no more than maybe 12 from what I recollect.
Throughout my childhood I was molested by every pervert that came within close proximity. A friend's grandfather, a man from my father's business, who "Finds great pleasure in taking a little girl to kiddyland and the zoo," (my mother was all too willing to be free of me for a day - no I never forgave her)a man who owned a little neighborhood grocery store, the father of kids I babysat with once, a customer of my father's, who would let me sit on his lap and pretend to drive the car. What a thrill for a little girl - even more of a thrill for a pervert. LOL! Oh, and let us not forget, my mother's husband, who told a 10 year old it was okay, because he wasn't her real dad. Yeah, these things happen even with the well-to-do.
In my teens, I suffered two rapes. The first by a high school friend. The other by a man who offered to help me out of a sticky situation. LOL. There were two attempted rapes in my early teens that I was fortunate to avoid. One, due to the kindness of a stranger and another due to a bottle of wine. Several years after the second rape, I encountered that "helpful" man in church. He was taking collections and sat with his wife and kids. When he came to my pew, the blood drained from his face. Wonder why? Of course if he was repentant, God can forgive him. I'm not God.
So, can I forgive all these perverts that caused me harm? Can I even make excuses for them? For the longest time I thought I was some awful person to attract these kinds of people. I know better now. I know it wasn't my fault. But the memories are still there, buried deep in my subconscious, locked safely away until something happens that allows them to escape.
They escape when I let my guard down and semi-trust someone. (Yeah, unbelievable that I have trust issues LOL) only to learn I've, once again, been betrayed. Then, I have the daunting task of gathering all those memories and locking them up again.(Do traumatized children ever really forget the trauma?).
I've never been good at relationships, because I'm not trusting; therefore, I avoid them. I remain uninvolved and uncommitted. I'm actually much happier that way. Life shouldn't be taken seriously and when one allows the seriousness of a relationship to enter their lives, they foolishly expect fairytale endings. Well honestly, folks, what comes after "...and they lived happily ever after?" The end! LOFL!
If you open the door to a person you know is untrustworthy, you deserve a kick in the ass. But what constitutes a liar or a cheat? Can you forgive little white lies? "No that dress doesn't make your ass look big." Strangely, I can't. That's a betrayal to me. How could someone who cares about you, let you go out in an outfit that makes your ass look big? I could never trust that person again. Can you forgive someone who cheats on their taxes? Well, for heaven's sake, who doesn't? But if they cheat the government so easily, what would prevent them from cheating on anything/anyone else?
Is it okay if you're in a relationship, to flirt? If you're a known flirt, which I am, and you know I am, guess it should be over-looked, right? Or is it dependent upon how far the flirtations go? If someone flirts with explicit sexual connotations and innuendos, with the same person, not just once, but over a period of months, even inviting the person to meet with them, is that flirting or cheating? Should that be over-looked, forgiven and forgotten? Dealt with? Is it an unfortunate "Mistake" if it happened over and over? Is it okay to lie (deny) about what happened for "Good reason." Can you ever trust the person again? Or are you just being a dope, who is taking a little indiscretion too seriously?
So, how forgiving are you? Or are you forgiving at all?
You can post your comments anonymously. But please do comment. Too often people read and think their comment or input isn't important - it really is.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
LuckyFool Breaks the Avilo Curse at It's Gosu LAN #3
Don't know how Luckyfool is feeling now after finally beating avilo 2-0, but I'd think he's feeling pretty damn happy. I have to admit that Lucky's games have gotten better, even though avilo played with less patience than usual and made some major mistakes.
I can make lots of excuses as to why avilo lost in today's event, but I really do think he jinxed himself - No Hat - No Green - No Sleep - Little Practice - No Sassy - No Cyberground. (Learned the real reason he was jinxed. Sup Son?)
Most of the DC area LAN tournaments have quit CyberGround because they were being unfair and because it was small and "stinky," according to some of the players. They're using Netolic facilities in Annandale, VA. now. Avilo has attended two there, this one and the one sponsored by dcsc2, where he took second.
But this is about Lucky's win. He was to the point where he never thought he'd beat Avilo and tonight he was on a roll, even though he lost to HwangSin twice. The first game HwangSin dropped Lucky to the loser's bracket 2-0. But he faced him again for 1st place, after beating ices, avilo and wbc.
Of course, I wouldn't miss an It's Gosu LAN tournament, even if they do bring in their pros to take the win. Guess it's their money and they wanna keep it in the family. LOL! Actually, I said that in chat and Ayesee countered with, they bring in the pros because other players enjoy playing the pros. Guess I'll have to talk to the "other players." hehe
So even though Lucky lost to HwangSin in the finals 3-0, he came in second and can go home flying, because he beat avilo, who, unfortunately, went home in fourth.
The top three -
HwangSin - Protoss (ez) Gold
Luckyfool - Terran Silver
wbc - Protoss (ez) Bronze
Avilo - fourth - the only this he ended up taking home was his date, so the night wasn't a total loss - hopefully :D
Since I haven't been hanging around the SC community much, I have to say that I enjoyed seeing the It's Gosu group and chat was fun and funny as usual. Redmagejr and Ayesee are great casters. And Zyori, formerly from Hypercrew, sat in so Redmage could take a break. Ayesee doesn't get a break.
Fireminx, Redmage's gf was suppose to be there, but came down with the makins of a migraine - not fun. She popped up in chat though and she's as much fun as her lesser half. (kidding Redmage)
My3000Ride, was first to greet me and I just smiled from ear to ear. He's one of mods, who apparently reads my blogs, but never comments. *glares* Hey, as long as he lurks and laughs it's okay with me.
Orion was in chat too, but a very different Orion than when I first met him. Subdued in comparison. Now I'm worried.
It wasn't until much later that Voss showed up, but Minx and I had fun teasing him behind his back about George Clooney. Hey, Voss, didn't know you have a poster of him hanging over your bed. LOL
Mumbles, one of the other mods, tried giving oral instructions - and they weren't voice lessons; however me thinks he needs more practice. But it was pretty funny.
All in all, despite the fact that avilo was probably feeling pretty down after the tournament, it was a great event. And yeah, from this day forward, watch out because avilo will probably come back like a beast - and that goes for you IG guys, too. :)Alls I can say to It's Gosu is bring it!
For replays of today's event go to: http://www.itsgosu.com/ you might have to navigate around a bit, but it's worth the effort.
Also for Zyori, who's making his own way since he left Hypercrew, go to http://www.zyori.tv/
And lastly, if you're a Terran fan and like watching exciting ladder play, with great commentary and super silliness, avilo's still showing off with his nukes @ http://www.twitch.tv/avilo#/w/1606084208/2
See you guys @ the next LAN.
I can make lots of excuses as to why avilo lost in today's event, but I really do think he jinxed himself - No Hat - No Green - No Sleep - Little Practice - No Sassy - No Cyberground. (Learned the real reason he was jinxed. Sup Son?)
Most of the DC area LAN tournaments have quit CyberGround because they were being unfair and because it was small and "stinky," according to some of the players. They're using Netolic facilities in Annandale, VA. now. Avilo has attended two there, this one and the one sponsored by dcsc2, where he took second.
But this is about Lucky's win. He was to the point where he never thought he'd beat Avilo and tonight he was on a roll, even though he lost to HwangSin twice. The first game HwangSin dropped Lucky to the loser's bracket 2-0. But he faced him again for 1st place, after beating ices, avilo and wbc.
Of course, I wouldn't miss an It's Gosu LAN tournament, even if they do bring in their pros to take the win. Guess it's their money and they wanna keep it in the family. LOL! Actually, I said that in chat and Ayesee countered with, they bring in the pros because other players enjoy playing the pros. Guess I'll have to talk to the "other players." hehe
So even though Lucky lost to HwangSin in the finals 3-0, he came in second and can go home flying, because he beat avilo, who, unfortunately, went home in fourth.
The top three -
HwangSin - Protoss (ez) Gold
Luckyfool - Terran Silver
wbc - Protoss (ez) Bronze
Avilo - fourth - the only this he ended up taking home was his date, so the night wasn't a total loss - hopefully :D
Since I haven't been hanging around the SC community much, I have to say that I enjoyed seeing the It's Gosu group and chat was fun and funny as usual. Redmagejr and Ayesee are great casters. And Zyori, formerly from Hypercrew, sat in so Redmage could take a break. Ayesee doesn't get a break.
Fireminx, Redmage's gf was suppose to be there, but came down with the makins of a migraine - not fun. She popped up in chat though and she's as much fun as her lesser half. (kidding Redmage)
My3000Ride, was first to greet me and I just smiled from ear to ear. He's one of mods, who apparently reads my blogs, but never comments. *glares* Hey, as long as he lurks and laughs it's okay with me.
Orion was in chat too, but a very different Orion than when I first met him. Subdued in comparison. Now I'm worried.
It wasn't until much later that Voss showed up, but Minx and I had fun teasing him behind his back about George Clooney. Hey, Voss, didn't know you have a poster of him hanging over your bed. LOL
Mumbles, one of the other mods, tried giving oral instructions - and they weren't voice lessons; however me thinks he needs more practice. But it was pretty funny.
All in all, despite the fact that avilo was probably feeling pretty down after the tournament, it was a great event. And yeah, from this day forward, watch out because avilo will probably come back like a beast - and that goes for you IG guys, too. :)Alls I can say to It's Gosu is bring it!
For replays of today's event go to: http://www.itsgosu.com/ you might have to navigate around a bit, but it's worth the effort.
Also for Zyori, who's making his own way since he left Hypercrew, go to http://www.zyori.tv/
And lastly, if you're a Terran fan and like watching exciting ladder play, with great commentary and super silliness, avilo's still showing off with his nukes @ http://www.twitch.tv/avilo#/w/1606084208/2
See you guys @ the next LAN.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
America's Got Talent - The Results - 8-31-11
Tonight ended the semi-finals. Unfortunately, for every winner there's someone who didn't win. See, I didn't say loser, because there's a place for each act that performed last night. They were all good.
My picks were obvious - they were the ones in caps in the poll. lol Would I have wanted Snap Boogie to replace Silhouettes? I'm not sure. Silhouettes wasn't that impressive last night, but if I voted on past performances, they've been spectacular. Their act is definitely unique and versatile. Watching them perform is mesmerizing.
When Snap Boogie was called to the stage with the Smage Bros. and Kinetic King, my only hope was that America didn't have their heads up their butts. When KK was eliminated, I was relieved. However, two acts, for which I voted, stood on the stage anxiously awaiting the judges decision.
I like Snap Boogie. He's talented and exciting to watch, but he doesn't take your breath away like the Smage Bros do. I had a feeling that the judges would vote the Smage Bros. into the finals - and they did. So what happens to Snap Boogie now? Certainly he won't be a street performer forever. Hopefully, an agent saw him and we'll be hearing good things about his success. He deserves a place in the world of entertainment.
There wasn't a doubt in my mind that Landon Swank, who was originally voted out of the competition and brought back as a wild card, would make it through.
What concerned me was when Anna Graceman and Landou Eugene Murphy, Jr. were both called to the stage. Then I thought LOL - AGT you're not gonna fool me again. Of course they're both going through. Only when Nick announced the winner - Anna Graceman - I sat with my jaw to the floor. Not that she doesn't deserve to be in the finals, but so does Murphy, dammit!
When Nick pulled him over to let him say his final words, I was sad and I'm sure his wife, who stood behind him and believed in him all these years, was heartbroken too. Then I thought, maybe it's better like this. Maybe it's better because if he does gain popularity, he'll probably start fooling around with women and y'all will end up divorced. Yeah, you saw him through the bad times, but he won't need you anymore if he becomes famous. That's just how it works.
Still, I felt bad for him. Then, after Murphy thanked everyone for the opportunity and made his farewell speech, Nick, (and whoever had this idea I'm putting a curse on you) said, "Well, what if I told you, you're not going home?" DUH!
Watch out now Mrs. Murphy. LOL
The acts you'll be seeing in next week's finals are:
From last weeks results
From this weeks results
By the way, I loved Susan Boyle's song, "You Have To Be There," which she performed beautifully, as usual, on tonight's show. Was it a religious song or a love song? hmmmm? Searched for the lyrics, but couldn't find them anywhere. Oh wells. EDIT: I finally found the lyrics to the song and it is religious in nature.
See y'all next week, if I'm still here.
P.S. I received the most beautiful "hugs and kisses" floral arrangement today along with the ugliest stuffed animal I've ever seen. You know the kind that's so ugly you have to love it? Thank you, avilo. #9829.
My picks were obvious - they were the ones in caps in the poll. lol Would I have wanted Snap Boogie to replace Silhouettes? I'm not sure. Silhouettes wasn't that impressive last night, but if I voted on past performances, they've been spectacular. Their act is definitely unique and versatile. Watching them perform is mesmerizing.
When Snap Boogie was called to the stage with the Smage Bros. and Kinetic King, my only hope was that America didn't have their heads up their butts. When KK was eliminated, I was relieved. However, two acts, for which I voted, stood on the stage anxiously awaiting the judges decision.
I like Snap Boogie. He's talented and exciting to watch, but he doesn't take your breath away like the Smage Bros do. I had a feeling that the judges would vote the Smage Bros. into the finals - and they did. So what happens to Snap Boogie now? Certainly he won't be a street performer forever. Hopefully, an agent saw him and we'll be hearing good things about his success. He deserves a place in the world of entertainment.
There wasn't a doubt in my mind that Landon Swank, who was originally voted out of the competition and brought back as a wild card, would make it through.
What concerned me was when Anna Graceman and Landou Eugene Murphy, Jr. were both called to the stage. Then I thought LOL - AGT you're not gonna fool me again. Of course they're both going through. Only when Nick announced the winner - Anna Graceman - I sat with my jaw to the floor. Not that she doesn't deserve to be in the finals, but so does Murphy, dammit!
When Nick pulled him over to let him say his final words, I was sad and I'm sure his wife, who stood behind him and believed in him all these years, was heartbroken too. Then I thought, maybe it's better like this. Maybe it's better because if he does gain popularity, he'll probably start fooling around with women and y'all will end up divorced. Yeah, you saw him through the bad times, but he won't need you anymore if he becomes famous. That's just how it works.
Still, I felt bad for him. Then, after Murphy thanked everyone for the opportunity and made his farewell speech, Nick, (and whoever had this idea I'm putting a curse on you) said, "Well, what if I told you, you're not going home?" DUH!
Watch out now Mrs. Murphy. LOL
The acts you'll be seeing in next week's finals are:
From last weeks results
iLluminate
Poplyfe
Lys Agnes
Miami All Stars
West Springfield Dance Team
From this weeks results
Silhouettes
Landou Eugene Murphy, Jr.
Anna Graceman
Landon Swank
Smage Bros.
By the way, I loved Susan Boyle's song, "You Have To Be There," which she performed beautifully, as usual, on tonight's show. Was it a religious song or a love song? hmmmm? Searched for the lyrics, but couldn't find them anywhere. Oh wells. EDIT: I finally found the lyrics to the song and it is religious in nature.
See y'all next week, if I'm still here.
P.S. I received the most beautiful "hugs and kisses" floral arrangement today along with the ugliest stuffed animal I've ever seen. You know the kind that's so ugly you have to love it? Thank you, avilo. #9829.
America's Got Talent - The Last 12 - 8/30/11
This is the last chance for the final 12 to prove they deserve to go to the finals and only five will be voted through.
Obviously, the act that would have to open is the act that takes up the whole stage. It's over the fastest and takes the longest to set up and that's the Kinetic King. He's personable - "oh yeah." He's likeable and funny. America loves him. But I still don't see anyone actually paying to watch a show in Vegas that's over in five seconds, even with his Elton John styled goggles.
Next up was the intense Fatally Unique - only they weren't so unique. They copied The Silence of the Lambs theme in costume so that they could be more like West Springfield Dance Team.
When it comes to magicians Landon Swank is impressive. His illusion was original, interesting, and as death defying as the last time he appeared. He opened as a hologram to introduce the act and instruct the judges. See it was up to them to choose a key from one through four. Those keys were coordinated to boxes numbered one through four that were suspended in the air.
We learn that he is in one of the four boxes and each box has explosives inside. The judges choose the number, turn the key that ignites the explosives, and hope they picked one that wouldn't have them committing murder on live TV.
As the judges turn the keys, the boxes explode, except for one, which just happens to be the box in which Swank is enclosed. And to prove that box could have exploded, if that particular key was turned, Piers was selected to turn key number two. KABOOM Baby!
Gymkana, the YouTube tumbling act was next to perform. They exchanged the ladder for chairs, one balanced on top of another, and whilst the tumblers tumbled, one of the team members did hand stands atop the chairs. It was just tumbling until they lit a ring of fire that they jump through. Unfortunately, they played with fire and got burnt and the act was done. Hopefully, no one was seriously injured.
I never thought much of Summerwind Skippers, but tonight they brought such great theatrics to their act that I was mesmerized. Then they messed up - not once, but twice. And even though they nailed the trick that they messed up last time, you just don't make mistakes when it's your last shot at the finals.
The kid who came from the streets where he performs his hip hop dance to help support his family was next on stage. Snap Boogie can dance and even though the judges weren't crazy about his opening, I liked it. He's versatile, personable, sincere and a natural talent.
And speaking of natural talents, Anna Graceman, the little girl with the big voice, knocked 'em dead with her twist on a Motley Creu song, "Home Sweet Home." She was possibly the best of the night and definitely the only one to get a standing O from all three judges.
Steven Retchless, the pole dancer, performed exquisitely. I can't imagine the upper body strength it must take to do what he does. He makes it look so easy.
But the most exciting act of the night was by far the Smage Bros. Riding Show, et al. Talk about a trusting family, even Granny Smage got in the act tonight. "We need ya to jump over, Granny." They performed incredible stunts to "Take Me Home Country Road" and before it was all over, the whole family was lying on the stage. Human props, one and all.
Now who can compete in a race against the Kinetic King for the fastest performance? That would be Professor Splash, the circus act, who for some reason made it to the semis. Oh yeah, he dives from a great height into 12 inches of water. Well tonight he dove from twice the height - 70 feet - into an 8 feet deep fiery pool of water at 60 mph. Don't blink or you've missed the show. Twice the height, but way more than twice the water. I suck at math so maybe someone else can figure this out.
I can't believe that a voice as smooth and mellow as Landou Eugene Murphy, Jr.'s voice has never been discovered. He blows me away with his talent. Tonight he performed a Sinatra song, "I've Got the World on a String" with all the Vegas style hoopla; big band, dancers, stage setting. Yeah, he deserves to be in Vegas, even if he doesn't win the AGT competition.
The last performers of the night were Silhouettes and unlike Fatally Unique, they really are unique; however, tonight's performance just wasn't as stunning as past performances.
So which five are going to the finals? Hope America thinks before they vote.
Obviously, the act that would have to open is the act that takes up the whole stage. It's over the fastest and takes the longest to set up and that's the Kinetic King. He's personable - "oh yeah." He's likeable and funny. America loves him. But I still don't see anyone actually paying to watch a show in Vegas that's over in five seconds, even with his Elton John styled goggles.
Next up was the intense Fatally Unique - only they weren't so unique. They copied The Silence of the Lambs theme in costume so that they could be more like West Springfield Dance Team.
When it comes to magicians Landon Swank is impressive. His illusion was original, interesting, and as death defying as the last time he appeared. He opened as a hologram to introduce the act and instruct the judges. See it was up to them to choose a key from one through four. Those keys were coordinated to boxes numbered one through four that were suspended in the air.
We learn that he is in one of the four boxes and each box has explosives inside. The judges choose the number, turn the key that ignites the explosives, and hope they picked one that wouldn't have them committing murder on live TV.
As the judges turn the keys, the boxes explode, except for one, which just happens to be the box in which Swank is enclosed. And to prove that box could have exploded, if that particular key was turned, Piers was selected to turn key number two. KABOOM Baby!
Gymkana, the YouTube tumbling act was next to perform. They exchanged the ladder for chairs, one balanced on top of another, and whilst the tumblers tumbled, one of the team members did hand stands atop the chairs. It was just tumbling until they lit a ring of fire that they jump through. Unfortunately, they played with fire and got burnt and the act was done. Hopefully, no one was seriously injured.
I never thought much of Summerwind Skippers, but tonight they brought such great theatrics to their act that I was mesmerized. Then they messed up - not once, but twice. And even though they nailed the trick that they messed up last time, you just don't make mistakes when it's your last shot at the finals.
The kid who came from the streets where he performs his hip hop dance to help support his family was next on stage. Snap Boogie can dance and even though the judges weren't crazy about his opening, I liked it. He's versatile, personable, sincere and a natural talent.
And speaking of natural talents, Anna Graceman, the little girl with the big voice, knocked 'em dead with her twist on a Motley Creu song, "Home Sweet Home." She was possibly the best of the night and definitely the only one to get a standing O from all three judges.
Steven Retchless, the pole dancer, performed exquisitely. I can't imagine the upper body strength it must take to do what he does. He makes it look so easy.
But the most exciting act of the night was by far the Smage Bros. Riding Show, et al. Talk about a trusting family, even Granny Smage got in the act tonight. "We need ya to jump over, Granny." They performed incredible stunts to "Take Me Home Country Road" and before it was all over, the whole family was lying on the stage. Human props, one and all.
Now who can compete in a race against the Kinetic King for the fastest performance? That would be Professor Splash, the circus act, who for some reason made it to the semis. Oh yeah, he dives from a great height into 12 inches of water. Well tonight he dove from twice the height - 70 feet - into an 8 feet deep fiery pool of water at 60 mph. Don't blink or you've missed the show. Twice the height, but way more than twice the water. I suck at math so maybe someone else can figure this out.
I can't believe that a voice as smooth and mellow as Landou Eugene Murphy, Jr.'s voice has never been discovered. He blows me away with his talent. Tonight he performed a Sinatra song, "I've Got the World on a String" with all the Vegas style hoopla; big band, dancers, stage setting. Yeah, he deserves to be in Vegas, even if he doesn't win the AGT competition.
The last performers of the night were Silhouettes and unlike Fatally Unique, they really are unique; however, tonight's performance just wasn't as stunning as past performances.
So which five are going to the finals? Hope America thinks before they vote.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Dancing with the Stars New Cast Announced and I'm Posting About Suicide?????
avilo said 'There's always hope" and sure enough, the new cast of DWTS is announced. Frankly, I think avilo misread or misinterpreted or whatever he does that causes me to get "my panties in a knot" like he says. Frankly, I think he does it intentionally to watch me QQ. *sighs*
There were rumors on Twitter earlier that the new cast was announced and it was wrong, so I don't know if this is reliable; however, I'm going to post it anyway.
Rickie Lake - She stared in Hairspray, a musical, when she was a fatty. So she
knows how to dance.
Rob Kardashian - You mean to tell me there's a brother in the tribe?
Chaz Bono - The sweet little daughter of Sonny and Cher, who is now a son.
Kristin Cavallari - Don't know her, but guess she's from The Hills.
Chynna Phillips - The daughter of Michelle Phillips from the 70s group Mamas
and Papas and vocalist in the group Wilson Phillips.
David Arquette - Wasn't he married to Courtney Cox?
Elisabetta Canalis - Didn't she used to be with George (I think I'm so hot) Clooney?
Nancy Grace - You've gotta worry about anyone with two first names. Heard she's a
news anchor.
Hope Solis - No, in the U.S. Soccer isn't considered football. Where are all the
football players this season?
Ron Artest - L.A. Lakers dude.
J.R. Martinez - Actor from All My Children. Is that still on the air?
Carson Kressley - Actor
With the exception of Ricky Lake, Chaz Bono, and Chynna Phillips, guess I'm going to have to get to know all the rest of cast as the season progresses.
There were rumors on Twitter earlier that the new cast was announced and it was wrong, so I don't know if this is reliable; however, I'm going to post it anyway.
Rickie Lake - She stared in Hairspray, a musical, when she was a fatty. So she
knows how to dance.
Rob Kardashian - You mean to tell me there's a brother in the tribe?
Chaz Bono - The sweet little daughter of Sonny and Cher, who is now a son.
Kristin Cavallari - Don't know her, but guess she's from The Hills.
Chynna Phillips - The daughter of Michelle Phillips from the 70s group Mamas
and Papas and vocalist in the group Wilson Phillips.
David Arquette - Wasn't he married to Courtney Cox?
Elisabetta Canalis - Didn't she used to be with George (I think I'm so hot) Clooney?
Nancy Grace - You've gotta worry about anyone with two first names. Heard she's a
news anchor.
Hope Solis - No, in the U.S. Soccer isn't considered football. Where are all the
football players this season?
Ron Artest - L.A. Lakers dude.
J.R. Martinez - Actor from All My Children. Is that still on the air?
Carson Kressley - Actor
With the exception of Ricky Lake, Chaz Bono, and Chynna Phillips, guess I'm going to have to get to know all the rest of cast as the season progresses.
Suicide - The Only Cure for Life?
Life can be a bitter drink, but in movies death is a beautiful escape for which awards are won. Movies paint a picture where death offers relief from a torturous and excruciatingly painful existence. The deceased is lovingly wrapped in the feathery folds of angel's wings and transitioned to paradise.
Some of us have been taught that "Our" lives are not ours to take. It's a mortal sin! It's murder of one's self. "Thou shalt not kill." Hmmm? Numerologists tell us that we have chosen this life - along with its people and circumstances - from which to learn. Therefore, should we decide to end it before its set date of completion, we're doomed to return and start all over - same people, same circumstances. That thought has kept me alive. I do believe there's even laws against taking ones own life. If that's true, it really isn't your life.
We can only speculate what drives a person to their own demise. Even suicide notes explaining why, offer little insight. It's not just a single event scribbled in a note; it's a lifetime of events that push people from the cliff.
For Annie, "The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow" and that sometimes gets people through the night to face another day. But what if day after day the sun doesn't shine? What if black, ominous clouds follow them throughout their days and only on rare occasion allow the sun to peek through? Is it okay to end their emotional suffering?
I've heard it said that people who choose to take their lives are weak? But are they really? Think about it! How hopeless, how unloved must one feel to face the great unknown; to end life thinking that death will be more than some black hole of oblivion?
Frankly, I don't believe people really want to end life, unless, due to illness, the end is inevitable and long-suffering. Emotionally distraught people just want to end the pain from which they've been unable to find relief.
Some suicides aren't spontaneous acts. The thought has weighed on their minds from the first experienced trauma. When the decision is finally made, it's methodically designed. Subconsciously, for years, they've began to get their house in order. Finally, the time is right. One more disappointment, failure, trauma, stressful situation, etc. and they're ready. Good-bye cruel world.
You laughed with them yesterday. You planned a trip with them for next month. You loved them. How could they do this? Why didn't you see this coming? What ifs race through your mind unceasingly. You feel like you're being punished. But for what crime? Obliviousness?
Some suicides hide their pain well. Even if you were aware of their sufferings, once they have decided to "end it all" there is nothing you can do to stop them, short of sitting with them 24/7 until the phase passes. You might report them, in which case they'd be stigmatized for the rest of their lives, causing even more trauma. Or you can convince them to get the proper help, via drugs and counseling, which aren't always effective and at times compound the problem, especially if they're reluctant to begin with. Yes, we're at a loss, because we're indecisive and fearful of doing something wrong. Plus, we have our own problems and hectic lives. So, we choose to remain uninvolved.
I've known people who have taken their lives. A boy in his teens, who by outwardly appearances had everything going for him, jumped in front of a train; a gay guy, who suffered from depression (most likely caused by the cruelty of others)had threatened and attempted suicide numerous times, was finally successful with booze and pills; an uncle, who put a gun to his head and blew his brains out.
There once was a girl, who, at eight, took a bottle of aspirin. Her stomach was pumped and she survived. But at ten she jumped off a roof. Again she survived. In her teens she became a cutter, actually slitting her wrists once, but only across the street, not down the road. The physical pain was more bearable. She's overdosed, but not enough to cause death. Numerous times she sat in a garage with the motor running, only to have neighbors report vapors seeping through the cracks.
She was a pretty girl, popular, witty, talented, smart; you'd have to wonder why anyone with all those attributes would want to die. Was she overly dramatic? In need of attention? Weak? How did life fail her? Who in life failed her? Or was she overly sensitive to her surroundings?
Sometimes I wonder if people who commit suicide just need to be in control of their own destiny. Like Bill Maher said, "Hey, God, you can't fire me; I quit!"
What's unsettling to those left behind is the lack of answers. We'll never truly know why; never truly know if there's something we might have said or done to prevent the suicide from happening; never know if an angel swept them away, or if they were cast into oblivion.
But I dare say, they found a cure for life.
Some of us have been taught that "Our" lives are not ours to take. It's a mortal sin! It's murder of one's self. "Thou shalt not kill." Hmmm? Numerologists tell us that we have chosen this life - along with its people and circumstances - from which to learn. Therefore, should we decide to end it before its set date of completion, we're doomed to return and start all over - same people, same circumstances. That thought has kept me alive. I do believe there's even laws against taking ones own life. If that's true, it really isn't your life.
We can only speculate what drives a person to their own demise. Even suicide notes explaining why, offer little insight. It's not just a single event scribbled in a note; it's a lifetime of events that push people from the cliff.
For Annie, "The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow" and that sometimes gets people through the night to face another day. But what if day after day the sun doesn't shine? What if black, ominous clouds follow them throughout their days and only on rare occasion allow the sun to peek through? Is it okay to end their emotional suffering?
I've heard it said that people who choose to take their lives are weak? But are they really? Think about it! How hopeless, how unloved must one feel to face the great unknown; to end life thinking that death will be more than some black hole of oblivion?
Frankly, I don't believe people really want to end life, unless, due to illness, the end is inevitable and long-suffering. Emotionally distraught people just want to end the pain from which they've been unable to find relief.
Some suicides aren't spontaneous acts. The thought has weighed on their minds from the first experienced trauma. When the decision is finally made, it's methodically designed. Subconsciously, for years, they've began to get their house in order. Finally, the time is right. One more disappointment, failure, trauma, stressful situation, etc. and they're ready. Good-bye cruel world.
You laughed with them yesterday. You planned a trip with them for next month. You loved them. How could they do this? Why didn't you see this coming? What ifs race through your mind unceasingly. You feel like you're being punished. But for what crime? Obliviousness?
Some suicides hide their pain well. Even if you were aware of their sufferings, once they have decided to "end it all" there is nothing you can do to stop them, short of sitting with them 24/7 until the phase passes. You might report them, in which case they'd be stigmatized for the rest of their lives, causing even more trauma. Or you can convince them to get the proper help, via drugs and counseling, which aren't always effective and at times compound the problem, especially if they're reluctant to begin with. Yes, we're at a loss, because we're indecisive and fearful of doing something wrong. Plus, we have our own problems and hectic lives. So, we choose to remain uninvolved.
I've known people who have taken their lives. A boy in his teens, who by outwardly appearances had everything going for him, jumped in front of a train; a gay guy, who suffered from depression (most likely caused by the cruelty of others)had threatened and attempted suicide numerous times, was finally successful with booze and pills; an uncle, who put a gun to his head and blew his brains out.
There once was a girl, who, at eight, took a bottle of aspirin. Her stomach was pumped and she survived. But at ten she jumped off a roof. Again she survived. In her teens she became a cutter, actually slitting her wrists once, but only across the street, not down the road. The physical pain was more bearable. She's overdosed, but not enough to cause death. Numerous times she sat in a garage with the motor running, only to have neighbors report vapors seeping through the cracks.
She was a pretty girl, popular, witty, talented, smart; you'd have to wonder why anyone with all those attributes would want to die. Was she overly dramatic? In need of attention? Weak? How did life fail her? Who in life failed her? Or was she overly sensitive to her surroundings?
Sometimes I wonder if people who commit suicide just need to be in control of their own destiny. Like Bill Maher said, "Hey, God, you can't fire me; I quit!"
What's unsettling to those left behind is the lack of answers. We'll never truly know why; never truly know if there's something we might have said or done to prevent the suicide from happening; never know if an angel swept them away, or if they were cast into oblivion.
But I dare say, they found a cure for life.
(I inadvertently deleted someone's comment, because avilo was spamming me with comments. He obviously misinterpreted what I wrote. Anyways, I apologize).
Sunday, August 28, 2011
MLG - Raleigh - Adios from the Blonde
So, the festivities are over and it's been fun, even though the Koreans are taking home more U.S. currency. Strangely, after each MLG, I'm craving Kimchee and Bi Beem Bop - maybe some Chop Chae, too.
I tuned in late again and didn't watch many games - didn't see Idra get eliminated by TriMaster - and by the time I did tune in, the final 8 were: Nada, Puma, Bomber, Coca, DRG, Hero, Huk, and Sjow.
Nada took out Huk in RO7 and Puma in RO8; DRG took out Hero in RO8 and Nada in RO9; Coca took out DRG in RO10, and Hero dropped Sjow in RO7. Bomber was just sitting in the Champion finals bracket waiting to see who he was going to take out.
Yeah, that was confusing to me and if I wasn't confuzzled enough with all the brackets - there was an extended series. I have no idea where that fits in, but I guess Puma knows, because he lost to Nada 4-3.
In the Champion losers bracket, Incontrol actually won two games, beating Drewbie. OMG! Drewbie must feel like crap losing to Incontrol. Don't feel badly Drewbie, Incontrol went on to lose the next match 1-2 to his teammate Machine.
Actually, the only EG players who didn't do too badly were Puma and Demuslim. But if Puma was already knocked out by Nada, how did he come back to be knocked out by Coca 2-0 in the champion bracket? *sighs* I was kinda feeling really dumb at this point. Me - with an IQ of a gazillion trillion million.
DRG wasn't out of it so I got to watch a boring Zerg/Zerg match v Coca. *yawns* If I could have I would have jumped in the middle of the map between the two of 'em with my can of Raid and sprayed them both to their deaths. Blonde exTERMINATOR winner of MLG! :D (That woulda been the bubble caption over my cartoon character's head)
The championship final match was between Coca (Zerg) and Bomber (Terran) and that's when avilo and I started our battle. Dumbass wanted Terran to win and I insisted Zerg should win. Guess he doesn't understand that Blizz will nerf Terran even more than they have with another MLG Terran win. The words went back and forth until I finally QQd and rage quit on him. LOL! I love doing that to him, cuz he laughs out loud and that makes me laugh. Of course it's all in fun. I just love aggravating the Terran to see his angry face and read his "aodfmomfoneldofne." By the way, avilo - I am so not BM, you gagafas!
I sent avilo lotsa :D, because in the first game Coca held off Bomber's bunker rush so well and took the game. But Bomber went on to win the championship. So all you Terrans out there - expect more Terran nerfs. hahahaha
Hope y'all had as much fun as I had. I'm looking forward to the next MLG in - hmmmm...lol sorry, having a blonde moment.
For accurate details (by peepz who aren't confused by brackets)and to get replays go to majorleaguegaming.com (I know there's an http and a www in front of that, but I can't remember how it goes. hehehe
*waves bye Hasta la bye bye y'all
I tuned in late again and didn't watch many games - didn't see Idra get eliminated by TriMaster - and by the time I did tune in, the final 8 were: Nada, Puma, Bomber, Coca, DRG, Hero, Huk, and Sjow.
Nada took out Huk in RO7 and Puma in RO8; DRG took out Hero in RO8 and Nada in RO9; Coca took out DRG in RO10, and Hero dropped Sjow in RO7. Bomber was just sitting in the Champion finals bracket waiting to see who he was going to take out.
Yeah, that was confusing to me and if I wasn't confuzzled enough with all the brackets - there was an extended series. I have no idea where that fits in, but I guess Puma knows, because he lost to Nada 4-3.
In the Champion losers bracket, Incontrol actually won two games, beating Drewbie. OMG! Drewbie must feel like crap losing to Incontrol. Don't feel badly Drewbie, Incontrol went on to lose the next match 1-2 to his teammate Machine.
Actually, the only EG players who didn't do too badly were Puma and Demuslim. But if Puma was already knocked out by Nada, how did he come back to be knocked out by Coca 2-0 in the champion bracket? *sighs* I was kinda feeling really dumb at this point. Me - with an IQ of a gazillion trillion million.
DRG wasn't out of it so I got to watch a boring Zerg/Zerg match v Coca. *yawns* If I could have I would have jumped in the middle of the map between the two of 'em with my can of Raid and sprayed them both to their deaths. Blonde exTERMINATOR winner of MLG! :D (That woulda been the bubble caption over my cartoon character's head)
The championship final match was between Coca (Zerg) and Bomber (Terran) and that's when avilo and I started our battle. Dumbass wanted Terran to win and I insisted Zerg should win. Guess he doesn't understand that Blizz will nerf Terran even more than they have with another MLG Terran win. The words went back and forth until I finally QQd and rage quit on him. LOL! I love doing that to him, cuz he laughs out loud and that makes me laugh. Of course it's all in fun. I just love aggravating the Terran to see his angry face and read his "aodfmomfoneldofne." By the way, avilo - I am so not BM, you gagafas!
I sent avilo lotsa :D, because in the first game Coca held off Bomber's bunker rush so well and took the game. But Bomber went on to win the championship. So all you Terrans out there - expect more Terran nerfs. hahahaha
Hope y'all had as much fun as I had. I'm looking forward to the next MLG in - hmmmm...lol sorry, having a blonde moment.
For accurate details (by peepz who aren't confused by brackets)and to get replays go to majorleaguegaming.com (I know there's an http and a www in front of that, but I can't remember how it goes. hehehe
*waves bye Hasta la bye bye y'all
Saturday, August 27, 2011
MLG-Raleigh Day 2 - Are My Blonde Roots Showing?
Where I come from sports bars have always been popular. But now, since Seattle's first e-sports bar, these types of bars are sproutin' up all over the U.S. Like I said in my last post, what could be more fun then a group of like minds gathering at a bar to watch e-sports on the big screen, whilst cheering on their favorite gamer and downing a couple beers?
By the time I started watching the MLG today, it was after 3 p.m. and most of the news was already posted.
The guys I was rootin' for were knocked out of the Open Winners Bracket by RO4. Luckyfool let wbc proTOSS him to death 2-0. Also knocked into the losers bracket was HwangSin, with a 2-0 loss to Tri-Masters; Pokebunny, who lost to FollowGrubby, a Protoss, 2-0; and wbc, who lost to EGPuma in RO5.(good thing EG sent Puma, otherwise it would have been a total fail for that team)
But they didn't lose. Nope! They still had a chance to fight they're way out of the Open Loser's Bracket. Depending on how far they got in the Open Winner's Bracket decides where they start in the Open Loser's Bracket.
Obviously, Luckyfool's downfall is a TvT match and he died to Murder 2-0. Unfortunately, only one of the gamers I was rootin' for made it out the loser's bracket. :( HwangSin, a Protoss. DUH! wbc went to RO9, but lost to creepy bug (Zerg) opponent by the name of Ostojiy (Yeah, pronounce that)
Okay, I always get confuzzled (I mean more so - stfu) on day two, because the dudes in the pool, who drowned are resusitated into the oxymoron bracket, better known as the Championship Losers Bracket. *shrugs* Seems to me that a fella's got a hard time losing in these tournaments.
The games I did watch made me laugh out loud. Lots of Terrans nowadays are playing mech, something avilo's been doing since beta. And I also noticed lots of blue flame drops from Terrans. Not to mention I was seeing some nukes in late games. Hardly as outrageous as avilo's 40 when he played at Columbus MLG.
There was one match that tickled me to hysterics. Puma (T) v Sheth (Z). Can't remember which of the two games it was now (blonde roots and all) but I watched as Sheth's creepy crawly thingies just nonchalantly walked into Puma's base and killed an SCV. Then he turned his little bugs around and LOFL! Puma was waiting for him on the ramp. I'm sure Sheth's last words were Rut Roh before KABOOM! Better than Raid. Now where have I seen that strategy before? Oh right! avilo!
Last time I looked all the top spots in the pool play were Korean's. Is that a surprise? HA! Not even for the noob who knows nuttin 'bout SC. hehe
Pool A - The best, Slayer's Coca - five wins, zero losses
The worst, EGIncontrol - zero wins, five losses
Pool B - The best, Bomber - five wins, zero losses
The worst, EGMachine - one win, four losses, with our all time
favorite BMer, EGIdra running a close second - 2 wins, three losses
Pool C - The best, DRG - four wins, 1 loss
The worst, TLO (the guy who was too busy watching Idra v Bomber to make
his first game) one win, four losses
Pool D - The best EGPuma - five wins, zero losses (Like I said good thing EG brought
him and I think DeMuslim is EG and doing well)
The worst, FXOmOonman - zero wins, five losses
I highlighted EG for a reason :D Despite the losses, they will still come out on top if they do well in the championship losers bracket, and at the next MLG, they'll be playing in the pool again.
Okay, my head hurts trying to figure this out so nighty-night until tomorrow.
By the time I started watching the MLG today, it was after 3 p.m. and most of the news was already posted.
The guys I was rootin' for were knocked out of the Open Winners Bracket by RO4. Luckyfool let wbc proTOSS him to death 2-0. Also knocked into the losers bracket was HwangSin, with a 2-0 loss to Tri-Masters; Pokebunny, who lost to FollowGrubby, a Protoss, 2-0; and wbc, who lost to EGPuma in RO5.(good thing EG sent Puma, otherwise it would have been a total fail for that team)
But they didn't lose. Nope! They still had a chance to fight they're way out of the Open Loser's Bracket. Depending on how far they got in the Open Winner's Bracket decides where they start in the Open Loser's Bracket.
Obviously, Luckyfool's downfall is a TvT match and he died to Murder 2-0. Unfortunately, only one of the gamers I was rootin' for made it out the loser's bracket. :( HwangSin, a Protoss. DUH! wbc went to RO9, but lost to creepy bug (Zerg) opponent by the name of Ostojiy (Yeah, pronounce that)
Okay, I always get confuzzled (I mean more so - stfu) on day two, because the dudes in the pool, who drowned are resusitated into the oxymoron bracket, better known as the Championship Losers Bracket. *shrugs* Seems to me that a fella's got a hard time losing in these tournaments.
The games I did watch made me laugh out loud. Lots of Terrans nowadays are playing mech, something avilo's been doing since beta. And I also noticed lots of blue flame drops from Terrans. Not to mention I was seeing some nukes in late games. Hardly as outrageous as avilo's 40 when he played at Columbus MLG.
There was one match that tickled me to hysterics. Puma (T) v Sheth (Z). Can't remember which of the two games it was now (blonde roots and all) but I watched as Sheth's creepy crawly thingies just nonchalantly walked into Puma's base and killed an SCV. Then he turned his little bugs around and LOFL! Puma was waiting for him on the ramp. I'm sure Sheth's last words were Rut Roh before KABOOM! Better than Raid. Now where have I seen that strategy before? Oh right! avilo!
Last time I looked all the top spots in the pool play were Korean's. Is that a surprise? HA! Not even for the noob who knows nuttin 'bout SC. hehe
Pool A - The best, Slayer's Coca - five wins, zero losses
The worst, EGIncontrol - zero wins, five losses
Pool B - The best, Bomber - five wins, zero losses
The worst, EGMachine - one win, four losses, with our all time
favorite BMer, EGIdra running a close second - 2 wins, three losses
Pool C - The best, DRG - four wins, 1 loss
The worst, TLO (the guy who was too busy watching Idra v Bomber to make
his first game) one win, four losses
Pool D - The best EGPuma - five wins, zero losses (Like I said good thing EG brought
him and I think DeMuslim is EG and doing well)
The worst, FXOmOonman - zero wins, five losses
I highlighted EG for a reason :D Despite the losses, they will still come out on top if they do well in the championship losers bracket, and at the next MLG, they'll be playing in the pool again.
Okay, my head hurts trying to figure this out so nighty-night until tomorrow.
MLG - Raleigh Day One and I'm Still Blonde
Okay, I'm not as blonde as the NASL model/interviewer - whatever her name is. Sporer? But still when it comes to MLG, I don't get all this pool stuff, although it's somewhat clearer to me since the first time I watched.
There's four pools named A, B, C and D. And I guess each gamer has to play with everyone in their pool. But even if they lose, they don't lose? I've never had such a hard time understanding anything.
And MLG doesn't help me by swapping streams. Hey, guys, I'm confused enough without y'all doing that!
Obviously, if you're reading this to get some accuracy on tonight's matches, you've come to the wrong place. This is just my noobish take. :D
I don't watch all the games, because I just don't care. I like that EG sucked for the most part on day one:
Coca 2-0 over Huk (He just joined EG)
Dignitasnani 2-0 over InControl
Bomber 2-0 over Idra
Sjow 2-0 over Machine
And even though Idra took 2 games off Haypro, Coca and Huk both whipped Incontrol 2-0. Maybe someone could tell me how Incontrol keeps scoring pool play? I never see him winning, but he always ends up on top. I don't get it!
Now if you wanna watch an exciting and stupendously unbelievable replay, you have got to watch the Sjow v Idra match. I won't give it away, but Sjow took Idra 2-0 in the craziest of games.
Something else hilarious happened at tonight's event - TLO was disqualified from his first game because he was a no show. LOL! Where was he? He was busy watching the Idra v Bomber match.
Another thing that made me crack up were the Terran "Goats." Huh? Pretty sure it was Tasteless who can't pronounce ghosts. lol. And there I was looking all over the map for something that looked like goats until I realized he was saying ghosts.
Players I root for, if they're not playing players I always root for, are the It's Gosu team. We, the viewers, don't get to watch the open bracket matches, so until it's announced you never know who moved on. I'd think with all the down time they have waiting for pool players - even with two streams running - they might throw in an open bracket game to fill the dead air. Some of us actually care about the open bracket gamers. *sighs*
So whilst everyone is watching all the pool player games, I'm more interested in the dudes that have to fight their way through the open brackets.
The It's Gosu team members are doing pretty good. Last I saw Hwangsin made it to RO3. So did Pokebunny and wbc. Unfortunately, Sonkie was dropped to the loser's bracket after he lost in RO2 to Cruncher 2-0.
There's one time I won't be rooting for It's Gosu and that's when Luckyfool faces wbc. See, I love protoss cuz they're pretty, but I've always been a Terran girl and since avilo isn't there, I'll be rooting for Luckyfool. "Lucky? If wbc gives ya cheese, make grilled cheese sammichs." (That's like if life gives ya lemons make lemonade. See what I did there?)
More excitement tomorrow, but what really sounds so fun to me - and wish I was there - is Barcraft. Heard about it through dcsc2 site. From what I gather, a bunch of people get together at a bar where they all watch the MLG tournament. I think it's great that some places are doing that actually; I mean offering a meeting place for Starcrafters. So cool!
There's four pools named A, B, C and D. And I guess each gamer has to play with everyone in their pool. But even if they lose, they don't lose? I've never had such a hard time understanding anything.
And MLG doesn't help me by swapping streams. Hey, guys, I'm confused enough without y'all doing that!
Obviously, if you're reading this to get some accuracy on tonight's matches, you've come to the wrong place. This is just my noobish take. :D
I don't watch all the games, because I just don't care. I like that EG sucked for the most part on day one:
Coca 2-0 over Huk (He just joined EG)
Dignitasnani 2-0 over InControl
Bomber 2-0 over Idra
Sjow 2-0 over Machine
And even though Idra took 2 games off Haypro, Coca and Huk both whipped Incontrol 2-0. Maybe someone could tell me how Incontrol keeps scoring pool play? I never see him winning, but he always ends up on top. I don't get it!
Now if you wanna watch an exciting and stupendously unbelievable replay, you have got to watch the Sjow v Idra match. I won't give it away, but Sjow took Idra 2-0 in the craziest of games.
Something else hilarious happened at tonight's event - TLO was disqualified from his first game because he was a no show. LOL! Where was he? He was busy watching the Idra v Bomber match.
Another thing that made me crack up were the Terran "Goats." Huh? Pretty sure it was Tasteless who can't pronounce ghosts. lol. And there I was looking all over the map for something that looked like goats until I realized he was saying ghosts.
Players I root for, if they're not playing players I always root for, are the It's Gosu team. We, the viewers, don't get to watch the open bracket matches, so until it's announced you never know who moved on. I'd think with all the down time they have waiting for pool players - even with two streams running - they might throw in an open bracket game to fill the dead air. Some of us actually care about the open bracket gamers. *sighs*
So whilst everyone is watching all the pool player games, I'm more interested in the dudes that have to fight their way through the open brackets.
The It's Gosu team members are doing pretty good. Last I saw Hwangsin made it to RO3. So did Pokebunny and wbc. Unfortunately, Sonkie was dropped to the loser's bracket after he lost in RO2 to Cruncher 2-0.
There's one time I won't be rooting for It's Gosu and that's when Luckyfool faces wbc. See, I love protoss cuz they're pretty, but I've always been a Terran girl and since avilo isn't there, I'll be rooting for Luckyfool. "Lucky? If wbc gives ya cheese, make grilled cheese sammichs." (That's like if life gives ya lemons make lemonade. See what I did there?)
More excitement tomorrow, but what really sounds so fun to me - and wish I was there - is Barcraft. Heard about it through dcsc2 site. From what I gather, a bunch of people get together at a bar where they all watch the MLG tournament. I think it's great that some places are doing that actually; I mean offering a meeting place for Starcrafters. So cool!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
America's Got Talent - Semi-finals Result Show - August 24, 2011
I have no doubt that Nick Cannon's outfit was designed by the wardrobe mistress from Ringling Bros.; the one that designs for clowns. Oh well, he confidently said, "I'm smokin' hot so I can wear dots." Ummm....no.
Before the results (which held one disappointment for me) tell you about the talent portion of tonight's show.
First to appear was Demi Lavato with "Skyscraper" and, frankly, I didn't know whether to cry or feel good. The lyrics are sad, but hopeful, I guess. When New Boyz performed, I was preoccupied, but then the hip-hop duo really isn't my cup of noodles, which I was making during their performance.
Now you know - or should - that theater is my passion and any song from musical theater gets my attention. Prince Poppycock, one of the performers from last year's AGT, can't be ignored. What his masks can't hide is the talent he exhibits; with the theatrics and sets and costumes, his performances are grandiose. The song he sang, "Feelin' Good" is from The Roar of the Greaspaint the Smell of the Crowd and has been sung by many a great celebrity - Prince Poppycock included.
You want the results?
The first acts called to the stage were:
Sandou Trio Russian Bar turned piano bar.
Zuma Zuma, the exuberant acrobats
Matt Whilhelm and his spinning bike
iLuminate unlit, but the winner nonetheless
Only two acts were called next and I was like AMERICA???? Are you frickin kidding me?????
Poplyfe, one of my picks
Lys Agnes, another one of my picks.
Obviously, they both deserved to go to the finals. And woohoo, they both did.
Next up:
Melissa Villasenor, whose best impression is that of Melissa Villasenor
Miami All Stars, one of my picks and the winner
Kevin Colis, the dude with the good voice and the bad songs
Now comes the sad news. The remaining three:
Beth Ann Robinson, who's only 14 and is sure to be a famous dancer
Daniel Joseph Baker, one of my picks and who I think deserved it more than West Springfield Dance Team, but the judges had their say.
Oh well, Daniel is going to go far and I do believe his appearance on AGT has given him the confidence he needed to rise above the adversity in his life.
So, I got four outta five, not bad. Did your picks make it through?
As an aside: So many people click on my blog in hopes of finding the song titles that were performed and I don't always know them. I think it would be a good idea to contact AGT and tell them that along with the performers name they might consider mentioning the music to which they're performing. Tweet Howie and tell him. lol
Before the results (which held one disappointment for me) tell you about the talent portion of tonight's show.
First to appear was Demi Lavato with "Skyscraper" and, frankly, I didn't know whether to cry or feel good. The lyrics are sad, but hopeful, I guess. When New Boyz performed, I was preoccupied, but then the hip-hop duo really isn't my cup of noodles, which I was making during their performance.
Now you know - or should - that theater is my passion and any song from musical theater gets my attention. Prince Poppycock, one of the performers from last year's AGT, can't be ignored. What his masks can't hide is the talent he exhibits; with the theatrics and sets and costumes, his performances are grandiose. The song he sang, "Feelin' Good" is from The Roar of the Greaspaint the Smell of the Crowd and has been sung by many a great celebrity - Prince Poppycock included.
You want the results?
The first acts called to the stage were:
Sandou Trio Russian Bar turned piano bar.
Zuma Zuma, the exuberant acrobats
Matt Whilhelm and his spinning bike
iLuminate unlit, but the winner nonetheless
Only two acts were called next and I was like AMERICA???? Are you frickin kidding me?????
Poplyfe, one of my picks
Lys Agnes, another one of my picks.
Obviously, they both deserved to go to the finals. And woohoo, they both did.
Next up:
Melissa Villasenor, whose best impression is that of Melissa Villasenor
Miami All Stars, one of my picks and the winner
Kevin Colis, the dude with the good voice and the bad songs
Now comes the sad news. The remaining three:
Beth Ann Robinson, who's only 14 and is sure to be a famous dancer
Daniel Joseph Baker, one of my picks and who I think deserved it more than West Springfield Dance Team, but the judges had their say.
Oh well, Daniel is going to go far and I do believe his appearance on AGT has given him the confidence he needed to rise above the adversity in his life.
So, I got four outta five, not bad. Did your picks make it through?
As an aside: So many people click on my blog in hopes of finding the song titles that were performed and I don't always know them. I think it would be a good idea to contact AGT and tell them that along with the performers name they might consider mentioning the music to which they're performing. Tweet Howie and tell him. lol
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
America's Got Talent - First Night of the Semi-Finals
For those of you who accidentally tuned into AGT at the start of a new season, like I did a few seasons back, you probably switched channels immediately thinking, Who wants to watch a bunch of dumb ass acts?
When Michael Grimm was on, I accidentally tuned in again and enjoyed all the performers of that season. So, I guess what I'm saying is, if you want to watch talented performers don't watch AGT until the semi-finals, or even quarter-finals. That's when the real talent begins.
Zuma Zuma, the first act on stage, makes what they do look easy. Their act is exciting and dangerous. If you don't think so tell that to one of the acrobats, whose brother died after a pyramid trick left him with a broken neck.
The judges didn't think it was as exciting as their other performances, but I'd say doing handstands on top of several chairs balanced on plastic glasses is pretty exciting. Not to mention the fired up limbo dances, a human totally wrapped around another human like a rubber band, and all the other acrobatics going on simultaneously.
How can one person possibly fill up the stage like the first act did? Well, with some mirrors, (which was a brilliant idea) a 14-year-old, Beth Ann Robinson, who can dance with the skill of a seasoned ballerina does more than just use all the floor space - she dances flawlessly and elegantly.
But mistakes are made. Tonight the biggest mistake was a decision made by Sandou Trio Russian Bar. "There's just so far you can go with the Russian bar act and we wanted to show our versatility." Really? They took a thrilling act, traded the bar for a piano that mechanically turned upside down so she could sing mediocre pointing both north and south.
Another singer, who to me is just mediocre - and I really think it has more to do with his song choices - is Kevin Colis.
Guess if you want to make mistakes though, you have to do some phenomenal tricks on a bike, with black light, like Matt Whilhelm. Yeah, he fell, but you know what? He got back up. There was a theme to his act, so falling was like part of the act. No bullies gonna push him around anymore.
One of my favorite acts from the beginning is Poplyfe. With their Jailhouse Rock kind of set, they took a risk and performed a Beatles hit, "Come Together." Their interpretation blew me away. So pro bro. You guys rock!
And whilst West Springfield Dance Team is unique, I don't get it. They came to AGT from YouTube, went to the Wild Card Show, and now in the Semis, me thinks this is the last stop. They have brilliant choreography and are well-synced, but there's so much talent tonight that I think their luck has run out.
Melissa Villasenor did well, but her four impersonations and humor didn't make me laugh. She makes me laugh. Yes! Melissa is like a caricature of herself. She's Saturday Night Live material and they should pick her up.
Seems like a lot of acts are going dark stage neon lit costumes and Team iLuminate is no exception. The game theme act was fun, except some of the costumes didn't appear to be that illuminated.
I'll tell you who did light up the stage for me was Daniel Joseph Baker. He took a risk, went out of his comfort zone and did a dramatic song. What it proved was that he is a versatile performer, deserving of a headline act in Vegas. He epitomizes showmanship and has the talent to back it all up.
An act that I was never that impressed with, but showed me the error of my thinking tonight was Miami All Stars. OMG! They performed a swing dance with the music and costumes of the big band era. The choreography was fantabulous and even Piers gave them a standing O.
Lys Agnes moved Piers to a standing O tonight, as well. Her performance was breathtaking.
Only five will be moving on, though.
When Michael Grimm was on, I accidentally tuned in again and enjoyed all the performers of that season. So, I guess what I'm saying is, if you want to watch talented performers don't watch AGT until the semi-finals, or even quarter-finals. That's when the real talent begins.
Zuma Zuma, the first act on stage, makes what they do look easy. Their act is exciting and dangerous. If you don't think so tell that to one of the acrobats, whose brother died after a pyramid trick left him with a broken neck.
The judges didn't think it was as exciting as their other performances, but I'd say doing handstands on top of several chairs balanced on plastic glasses is pretty exciting. Not to mention the fired up limbo dances, a human totally wrapped around another human like a rubber band, and all the other acrobatics going on simultaneously.
How can one person possibly fill up the stage like the first act did? Well, with some mirrors, (which was a brilliant idea) a 14-year-old, Beth Ann Robinson, who can dance with the skill of a seasoned ballerina does more than just use all the floor space - she dances flawlessly and elegantly.
But mistakes are made. Tonight the biggest mistake was a decision made by Sandou Trio Russian Bar. "There's just so far you can go with the Russian bar act and we wanted to show our versatility." Really? They took a thrilling act, traded the bar for a piano that mechanically turned upside down so she could sing mediocre pointing both north and south.
Another singer, who to me is just mediocre - and I really think it has more to do with his song choices - is Kevin Colis.
Guess if you want to make mistakes though, you have to do some phenomenal tricks on a bike, with black light, like Matt Whilhelm. Yeah, he fell, but you know what? He got back up. There was a theme to his act, so falling was like part of the act. No bullies gonna push him around anymore.
One of my favorite acts from the beginning is Poplyfe. With their Jailhouse Rock kind of set, they took a risk and performed a Beatles hit, "Come Together." Their interpretation blew me away. So pro bro. You guys rock!
And whilst West Springfield Dance Team is unique, I don't get it. They came to AGT from YouTube, went to the Wild Card Show, and now in the Semis, me thinks this is the last stop. They have brilliant choreography and are well-synced, but there's so much talent tonight that I think their luck has run out.
Melissa Villasenor did well, but her four impersonations and humor didn't make me laugh. She makes me laugh. Yes! Melissa is like a caricature of herself. She's Saturday Night Live material and they should pick her up.
Seems like a lot of acts are going dark stage neon lit costumes and Team iLuminate is no exception. The game theme act was fun, except some of the costumes didn't appear to be that illuminated.
I'll tell you who did light up the stage for me was Daniel Joseph Baker. He took a risk, went out of his comfort zone and did a dramatic song. What it proved was that he is a versatile performer, deserving of a headline act in Vegas. He epitomizes showmanship and has the talent to back it all up.
An act that I was never that impressed with, but showed me the error of my thinking tonight was Miami All Stars. OMG! They performed a swing dance with the music and costumes of the big band era. The choreography was fantabulous and even Piers gave them a standing O.
Lys Agnes moved Piers to a standing O tonight, as well. Her performance was breathtaking.
Only five will be moving on, though.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
The First DCSC2 Tournament - Yeah, It's Starcraft
Due to the fact that someone saw my original post as "divulging too much 'personal' information" and "making me look bad" the original post was deleted. Sorry
Obviously, the truth hurts - especially when you're telling other people another truth.
Follow-up:
Even though I deleted the post, I think dcsc2 deserves a shout out. The casters, Yida and Gosukevin, whilst not the comedic Ayesee and Redmajejr, of It's Gosu, are good and made Saturday's games exciting and interesting.
When I first started watching the It's Gosu stream, there were few people viewing - it was the same with the dcsc2 stream. These guys put their time and effort into streaming so that y'all can watch events and enjoy them - please do support the streams by becoming a follower.
For further dcsc2 information on upcoming events, etc:
http://dcsc2.com/
Obviously, the truth hurts - especially when you're telling other people another truth.
Follow-up:
Even though I deleted the post, I think dcsc2 deserves a shout out. The casters, Yida and Gosukevin, whilst not the comedic Ayesee and Redmajejr, of It's Gosu, are good and made Saturday's games exciting and interesting.
When I first started watching the It's Gosu stream, there were few people viewing - it was the same with the dcsc2 stream. These guys put their time and effort into streaming so that y'all can watch events and enjoy them - please do support the streams by becoming a follower.
For further dcsc2 information on upcoming events, etc:
http://dcsc2.com/
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
AGT - The Wild Card Results Show
Much to my dismay, America voted. Only one of my picks made it through so, it looks like USCMD's predicitons were right. *sighs* (Did ya ever feel like you don't belong in this life?)
I agree that the Kinetic King, who was voted through, is endearing and has a great sense of humor; however, are people actually going to pay to see an act that's over in a couple minutes?
Granted, Peachock blew it last night; nevertheless, I think he's entertaining. And if America had voted for Those Funny Little People, I probably would have left the states along with Piers. Avery and the Calico Hearts can come back when their voices have matured some.
Not one of the above mentioned were in my picks. :((
But two of the first three called to stage were. Shevonne and Yellow Design Stunt Team. Frankly, I was aghast when West Springfield made it through. Not that they don't have potential, but come on folks. This only goes to prove that teens text more than adults pick up the phone.
By the time Landon Swank and Seth Grabel were called to the stage I was thoroughly disgusted. Too many things have gone wrong for me lately, and now my picks, which are always accurate, (well 99.9% of the time) were wrong too. I picked Swank, so I was sure Seth would go to the semis. Oh wow! Surprise, surprise. America voted right this time and we'll see Landon Swank in the semis.
That left the Fiddleheads, Summerwind Skippers and J. Chris Newburg. I knew that my pick - Newburg - wouldn't go through this time, but I did hope the jump rope team would. At least it wasn't too big of a disappointment when the judges decided on Summerwind Skippers.
The show wasn't a total loss for me, though. As some of you know my background is in theater, so anytime a show brings an ensemble to perform, I'm in my glory. Les Miserables is one of the longest running musicals in the world and third longest running on Broadway. "One Day More," performed impeccably by cast members, gave me goose bumps. It'ss a great song, but my fave from the show is "On My Own." Kinda the way I've always been. (That's what ya get for bein' so damn independent, Ms. Hart).
I missed Colbie Callat's "All of You," because the phone rang - and if you're reading this, the answer is still no.
The semis begin next week and there's already talk about October's auditions. Just one more thing of which I'm not looking forward.
I agree that the Kinetic King, who was voted through, is endearing and has a great sense of humor; however, are people actually going to pay to see an act that's over in a couple minutes?
Granted, Peachock blew it last night; nevertheless, I think he's entertaining. And if America had voted for Those Funny Little People, I probably would have left the states along with Piers. Avery and the Calico Hearts can come back when their voices have matured some.
Not one of the above mentioned were in my picks. :((
But two of the first three called to stage were. Shevonne and Yellow Design Stunt Team. Frankly, I was aghast when West Springfield made it through. Not that they don't have potential, but come on folks. This only goes to prove that teens text more than adults pick up the phone.
By the time Landon Swank and Seth Grabel were called to the stage I was thoroughly disgusted. Too many things have gone wrong for me lately, and now my picks, which are always accurate, (well 99.9% of the time) were wrong too. I picked Swank, so I was sure Seth would go to the semis. Oh wow! Surprise, surprise. America voted right this time and we'll see Landon Swank in the semis.
That left the Fiddleheads, Summerwind Skippers and J. Chris Newburg. I knew that my pick - Newburg - wouldn't go through this time, but I did hope the jump rope team would. At least it wasn't too big of a disappointment when the judges decided on Summerwind Skippers.
The show wasn't a total loss for me, though. As some of you know my background is in theater, so anytime a show brings an ensemble to perform, I'm in my glory. Les Miserables is one of the longest running musicals in the world and third longest running on Broadway. "One Day More," performed impeccably by cast members, gave me goose bumps. It'ss a great song, but my fave from the show is "On My Own." Kinda the way I've always been. (That's what ya get for bein' so damn independent, Ms. Hart).
I missed Colbie Callat's "All of You," because the phone rang - and if you're reading this, the answer is still no.
The semis begin next week and there's already talk about October's auditions. Just one more thing of which I'm not looking forward.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
America's Got Talent - The Wild Card Show
Correction - Thanks to USCMD, who pointed out my error. I inadvertently gave Peachock's balls to Landon Swank. Oops
Tonight the judges had their choice of acts they thought got a raw deal and were sent home too soon. As far as I'm concerned, some of these acts were better than ones the judges sent straight to Vegas. Then again, as Bob Barrenger said in State and Main, "The only second chance I know, is to make the same mistake twice."
The acts Piers picked:
The Kinetic King, whose act didn't fail the second time around. With tin cans, garbage pails, balloons, string, oranges and his Popsicle sticks, he started the chain reaction and it went off beautifully. There should have been more aerial shots, but all in all it was a great trick. As fun as it is to watch, I still don't think it's worth a million bucks.
Charles Peachock, who I think deserved a second chance, but did fail. A juggler can't drop the props. He started off with a flaming chain saw and two fire balls, but his second trick, with the swords was a disaster. He balanced the blade of one sword on the point of another that rested on his forehead. With the top sword spinning, he juggled three other swords, only oops, he dropped one. The end.
Summerwind Skippers, a jump rope act, makes jumping rope "sexy." Hell, I knew that it was sexy from when I was a kid. Bouncing boobies and well packed baskets what more could ya ask for? I know, glow in the dark jump ropes and costumes.
The Magician that Piers thought deserved a second chance was Landon Swank. I thought he was good when he (and herein lies the error :D) tinkled the ivory with his balls. Tonight, he performed a pretty awesome trick under water. I hate under water tricks, because I always feel compelled to hold my breath and I always drown.
Howie's Picks:
Come on! He brought back Those Funny Little People just to spite Piers.
Seth Grabel made a car appear, but hell, he had a smoke screen to disguise the trick itself. The best part of his act were the three kids, who emerged from the car. A mini Sharon, a mini Howie, and a mini Piers.
I was beginning to think that Howie really doesn't know talent until the comedian, J Chris Newburg came on stage. He did a Piers (who absolutely didn't think Newburg had an ounce of comedic talent) roast and it was funny enough to make Piers laugh - okay he fought it, but there was definitely a smile on his face. Well, actually, it was about Piers so, of course his narcissistic self would find it entertaining. I'm sure what Newburg wanted to do was hike his leg on Piers ala Gabe Rock.
Howie also brought back Fiddleheads, the blue grass group that incorporates contempary music in their act. Yeah, I think they left the blue grass in Kentucky.
Sharon's picks:
Unlike, Howie and Piers, Sharon has a musical background, so she should know music. When she brought back the chipmunks, in the bodies of Avery and the Calico Hearts, I was thoroughly disappointed in her. Boo Hiss. You don't choose talent based on cuteness. The song in which I'm pretty sure, the fairest of them all, started off key, was something about dynamite. Isn't dynamite kinda like a bomb?
Shevonne, who sang Madonna's Nobody's Perfect was really good, though. It's nice to hear people admit they're wrong and all three judges admitted that sending her home in the first place was dead wrong.
Last week Sharon already told us that she would bring back West Springfield Dance Team and she was wrong. Not only didn't they step it up, it was just boring horror.
The one act I thought should be in the semis and Sharon was good enough to bring back is Yellow Design Stunt Team. Man, those BMXers are dangerously exciting. Every time they appear, their act has a different theme. Costumed in pirate attire with a stage to match the story, they performed sensational stunts. Shiver me timbers.
My picks:
Yellow Design Stunt Team
Shevonne
J. Chris Newburg
Landon Swank
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Starcraft - Not Saying Good-bye, but Farewell
For the most part I've enjoyed writing about Starcraft and watching it grow. The comments were always fun to read and seeing the number of viewers grow was exciting. But sometimes things in our lives take a turn and you realize that you need time to get back on track. That's what I need - time.
I wrote a lot about the Starcraft community mostly because of avilo to whom I was devoted. Before he came into my life,I didn't even know what SC was. LOL But for two years, when he had no one to believe in him or support him and his dreams, I was there for him - right or wrong. I trust that I encouraged him and inspired him to grow. Hell, I even convinced him to finish college, when he was thoroughly disillusioned.
It does my heart good to know that now he has a fan base and it's growing in numbers everyday. His stream is thriving and other gamers support him and recognize his talent - the talent I've seen since I've known him. Before he got his new computer (I kept telling him to stop trying to rebuild his old computer and get all new innards. GRRRRRRR! Finally he did)I sat on his unwatchable stream as mod for hours - talk about devotion LOL
I smiled when I saw that It's Gosu, who had their first invitational the other night, (really exciting games with some top players) invited avilo - the only one without a team. That was nice of them, but then I've always said they're good people. He lost in RO1 to a protoss, but he'll get there eventually.
Luckyfool messaged me on TeamLiquid and thanked me for supporting the community. He thinks that if it wasn't for avilo, I probably would not have written anything about SC. Like I said, I didn't know squat about SC before avilo, but now that I do, I enjoy the game and, believe it or not, have made some friends. So, you're wrong, Lucky. I'll be back eventually. And I'll continue to support the DC LANs, It's Gosu, Hypercrew - all the dudes that were nice to me, and who accepted me into the community. It was great fun. I love y'all and wish y'all the best in your endeavors.
It's just time for me to back off for a while. LOL! Actually, not that anyone, except avilo, noticed but I backed off as of July 21, despite avilo's incessant Terran-like harassment, strats, gimmicks, BtB allins and shenanigans for me to return. (hmmm...come to think of it, those tricks are the same he used to get me into his life in the first place hehehe)
As far as the PMs I'm receiving... what I know is this - when you've known someone as intimately as I've known avilo, you know their heart and their mind; you know their weaknesses and their strengths. It's not the PMs or the chat logs - it's the fact that they were all too easy for me to believe.
Anyways, I'll see you guys in the near future and be writing more about Starcraft and its progress. I'll definitely write when Luckyfool beats avilo 2-0. hahaha. Thanks again to Luckyfool, all the peeps at It's Gosu and all the casters who streamed events and kept chat a nice place to be and the games exciting to watch. And thank you Davi, for introducing me to your game. GLHF!
P.S. One last word - Read the Koreans will not be participating in season 2 of the NASL. Just LOFL!
I wrote a lot about the Starcraft community mostly because of avilo to whom I was devoted. Before he came into my life,I didn't even know what SC was. LOL But for two years, when he had no one to believe in him or support him and his dreams, I was there for him - right or wrong. I trust that I encouraged him and inspired him to grow. Hell, I even convinced him to finish college, when he was thoroughly disillusioned.
It does my heart good to know that now he has a fan base and it's growing in numbers everyday. His stream is thriving and other gamers support him and recognize his talent - the talent I've seen since I've known him. Before he got his new computer (I kept telling him to stop trying to rebuild his old computer and get all new innards. GRRRRRRR! Finally he did)I sat on his unwatchable stream as mod for hours - talk about devotion LOL
I smiled when I saw that It's Gosu, who had their first invitational the other night, (really exciting games with some top players) invited avilo - the only one without a team. That was nice of them, but then I've always said they're good people. He lost in RO1 to a protoss, but he'll get there eventually.
Luckyfool messaged me on TeamLiquid and thanked me for supporting the community. He thinks that if it wasn't for avilo, I probably would not have written anything about SC. Like I said, I didn't know squat about SC before avilo, but now that I do, I enjoy the game and, believe it or not, have made some friends. So, you're wrong, Lucky. I'll be back eventually. And I'll continue to support the DC LANs, It's Gosu, Hypercrew - all the dudes that were nice to me, and who accepted me into the community. It was great fun. I love y'all and wish y'all the best in your endeavors.
It's just time for me to back off for a while. LOL! Actually, not that anyone, except avilo, noticed but I backed off as of July 21, despite avilo's incessant Terran-like harassment, strats, gimmicks, BtB allins and shenanigans for me to return. (hmmm...come to think of it, those tricks are the same he used to get me into his life in the first place hehehe)
As far as the PMs I'm receiving... what I know is this - when you've known someone as intimately as I've known avilo, you know their heart and their mind; you know their weaknesses and their strengths. It's not the PMs or the chat logs - it's the fact that they were all too easy for me to believe.
Anyways, I'll see you guys in the near future and be writing more about Starcraft and its progress. I'll definitely write when Luckyfool beats avilo 2-0. hahaha. Thanks again to Luckyfool, all the peeps at It's Gosu and all the casters who streamed events and kept chat a nice place to be and the games exciting to watch. And thank you Davi, for introducing me to your game. GLHF!
P.S. One last word - Read the Koreans will not be participating in season 2 of the NASL. Just LOFL!
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
America's Got Talent - YouTube Special Results Show 8-10-11
YouTube is such a ginormous video website that everyone and his brother has used the site to uploaded videos. Some talented folks even made their way to AGT. But what's more amazing are the YouTube entertainers that AGT brought us tonight.
A 29 year old, who goes by the name of Tay Zonday has had over 70 million viewers watch his Chocolate Rain vid. But it doesn't stop there. I mean his original video became so popular that he's risen to fame. And, yes, he actually talks with that deep, resonating voice with which he sings.
Keenan Cahill, a 15 year old, from Elmhurst, IL. put a vid on YouTube of him lip-syncing and, since, has been joined by a multitude of stars. The teen, who suffers from Maroteaux-Lamy Syndrome (which can be an excruciatingly painful disease)has had over 23 million YouTube views.
Other performers on tonight's show were OK Go, originally from Chicago, who performed All is Not Lost, Rebecca Black of the Friday Friday Friday fame (Awwwww I missed her performance *rolls eyes) and Up and Over, a hand dancing act.
But the most important YouTube acts were the performers, who anxiously awaited their fate backstage.
Nick first called out Gymkana and Powerhouse. Out the two, I think Gymkana was more unique so, despite Nick's pregnant pause, adding to the tension of these hopefuls, I knew Gymkana would get the most audience votes and they did.
Next up, Matt Whilhelm, Aeon, and TnC Elite. Well seeing as Matt got the most YouTube votes, again there was no doubt in my mind who was going to the semis. Matt Whilhelm and his dance partner, the neon bike.
Then four acts faced the firing squad. I swear that's what they're faces look like whilst they're standing up there waiting for Nick to announce who won. Kalani, Breena Bell, Kevin Colis and Brett Daniels. I liked the illusionist, but figured Kevin Colis would make it through. Just what Vegas needs, more singers. Actually, I'm happy for him. And if it weren't for his girlfriend, he wouldn't even be there. Yeah, behind every famous man, is a devoted and loyal woman, who believes in him.(dumb b*t*h)
The last three acts standing were Beth Ann Robinson, West Springfield Dance Team and Gabe Rock. Awwww poor Gabe was disqualified first and according to Piers, it's because Gabe was rude. HA! Piers he only did what a lot of other acts would like to have done.
This was a toss-up between Beth Ann and WSDT and I'm glad I didn't have to be one of the judges. Of course, Sharon would pick the West Springfield Dance Team, because they're just weird. I mean look who she chose for a husband. Nevertheless, Beth Ann Robinson was chosen by Piers and Howie.
We haven't seen the last of West Springfield Dance Team, though. Next week is the Wild Card show and that means a second chance for some of the performers who didn't make it. Sharon's wild card pick is West Springfield. They might make it to the semis yet.
Did I mention that I can't wait for AGT to be over and for Dancing with the Stars to start? LOL
A 29 year old, who goes by the name of Tay Zonday has had over 70 million viewers watch his Chocolate Rain vid. But it doesn't stop there. I mean his original video became so popular that he's risen to fame. And, yes, he actually talks with that deep, resonating voice with which he sings.
Keenan Cahill, a 15 year old, from Elmhurst, IL. put a vid on YouTube of him lip-syncing and, since, has been joined by a multitude of stars. The teen, who suffers from Maroteaux-Lamy Syndrome (which can be an excruciatingly painful disease)has had over 23 million YouTube views.
Other performers on tonight's show were OK Go, originally from Chicago, who performed All is Not Lost, Rebecca Black of the Friday Friday Friday fame (Awwwww I missed her performance *rolls eyes) and Up and Over, a hand dancing act.
But the most important YouTube acts were the performers, who anxiously awaited their fate backstage.
Nick first called out Gymkana and Powerhouse. Out the two, I think Gymkana was more unique so, despite Nick's pregnant pause, adding to the tension of these hopefuls, I knew Gymkana would get the most audience votes and they did.
Next up, Matt Whilhelm, Aeon, and TnC Elite. Well seeing as Matt got the most YouTube votes, again there was no doubt in my mind who was going to the semis. Matt Whilhelm and his dance partner, the neon bike.
Then four acts faced the firing squad. I swear that's what they're faces look like whilst they're standing up there waiting for Nick to announce who won. Kalani, Breena Bell, Kevin Colis and Brett Daniels. I liked the illusionist, but figured Kevin Colis would make it through. Just what Vegas needs, more singers. Actually, I'm happy for him. And if it weren't for his girlfriend, he wouldn't even be there. Yeah, behind every famous man, is a devoted and loyal woman, who believes in him.(dumb b*t*h)
The last three acts standing were Beth Ann Robinson, West Springfield Dance Team and Gabe Rock. Awwww poor Gabe was disqualified first and according to Piers, it's because Gabe was rude. HA! Piers he only did what a lot of other acts would like to have done.
This was a toss-up between Beth Ann and WSDT and I'm glad I didn't have to be one of the judges. Of course, Sharon would pick the West Springfield Dance Team, because they're just weird. I mean look who she chose for a husband. Nevertheless, Beth Ann Robinson was chosen by Piers and Howie.
We haven't seen the last of West Springfield Dance Team, though. Next week is the Wild Card show and that means a second chance for some of the performers who didn't make it. Sharon's wild card pick is West Springfield. They might make it to the semis yet.
Did I mention that I can't wait for AGT to be over and for Dancing with the Stars to start? LOL
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
America's Got Talent - YouTube Special
Out of a thousand YouTube auditions, only 20 of which we got to see, the judges chose 12 to compete for four spots. Props to the judges for sitting through a thousand acts. I couldn't do it, but then I'm not getting paid.
The first act, from Charlotte N.C., incorporates modern dance/music with clog dancing. TNC Elite is different and, no, can't be compared to Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance. They danced to the upbeat, Black Eyed Peas tune "I Gotta Feeling" and it suited their style perfectly.
Where does an illusionist go at 50? Well, if your name is Brett Daniels and you're from Wisconsin, you audition on YouTube for AGT. He did a tribute to Marilyn Monroe and I thought it was a great trick. The problem is I was bored. What he lacks, in my opinion, is showmanship.
Now if he had a face like the next act, you'd have to love him. Gabe Rock, rawks. The humor this cute little bull dog brought to the act, was a good choice. Oh wait, his trainer created the act. Who was she anyways? "What does Piers do when he doesn't like an act?" she asked. Gabe buzzed the buzzer. But hiking his leg on a cardboard cut-out of Piers was what I'm sure a lot of acts would like to do. Who doesn't like doggies? Cat lovers most probably.
There are so many acrobatic acts that Aeon, from L.A. has a lot of competition, even though I've yet to see another free running dance group on AGT. What they lack in talent, they make up for in energy.
I remember the little southern miss from her YouTube audition. And I agreed with the judges that Breena Bell from Alabama could see the Olympics in her future, but doesn't stand a chance on AGT.
The male singer competition isn't overwhelming this season so, who knows, the Texan, Kevin Colis, might stand a chance. He's not a Michael Grimm, but then there's only one of him. I'm not a big fan of The Lazy Song, although he did hit and sustain the final high note flawlessly.
Next up was a 14 year old dancer from Alabama, Beth Ann Robinson. When I watched her YouTube performance I thought she had talent, but with the drama and emotion she brought to the act to tell a story...well, it was pretty awesome. And the kid can dance.
Gymkana an acrobatic team from MD did their stunts to Lady Gaga's "On the Edge." They're an incredibly talented ladder act that not only has to have balance, coordination and perfect timing, but complete TRUST in the dude that holds up the ladders. Obviously, I wouldn't make the act, because I don't trust anyone.
What kid wouldn't wanna be surrounded by gorgeous girls? Well, maybe not all guys. With a name like Kalani, you'd have to be from Hawaii, right? The gorgeous girls, who danced around while he played with his balls - oh did I mention he does a freestyle basketball act? - looked nervous as hell. Howie described him as a one-man Harlem Globetrotter act. It's interesting to watch, but what other tricks can he do? I mean the Globetrotters can at least play basketball.
West Springfield Dance Team bills themselves as hip hop dancers, but it didn't look hip hop to me. Although the choreography, with their vampire-ish look and contacts that made their eyes translucent was different, it didn't scare me at all. They have one really good move; however, the competition in this category is plentiful.
The guy that got the most YouTube votes hails from my hometown, Chicago. When I saw Matt Whilhelm's YouTube audition I wasn't too impressed. Seems everyone these days wants to glow in the dark. His bicycle glowed and was extremely talented, too. I never saw a bicycle break dance by itself. Oh wait! He was on it doing the tricks, but you couldn't see him? Ohhhhhhhhh I get it now. So when he appeared spinning in thin air, the bicycle was just blacked out? Unfortunately, I didn't even realize that his costume was the innards of a human that glowed in the dark, because it didn't.
Lastly, a high school choir from California, Powerhouse. It's a different kind of choir that makes you want to be happy and makes you feel like singing? Okay. The choir in the movie Sister Act made me happier and made me feel like singing. This choir, not too much.
So, which four of the above acts do you think will make it to the semis? There's certainly no Jackie Evancho there and with the exception of Beth Ann Robinson, I don't see any of them going to the finals.
That's my take on the YouTube performers, but before I log off a warm welcome to my newest viewer, Leslie and thanks for following. :)
The first act, from Charlotte N.C., incorporates modern dance/music with clog dancing. TNC Elite is different and, no, can't be compared to Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance. They danced to the upbeat, Black Eyed Peas tune "I Gotta Feeling" and it suited their style perfectly.
Where does an illusionist go at 50? Well, if your name is Brett Daniels and you're from Wisconsin, you audition on YouTube for AGT. He did a tribute to Marilyn Monroe and I thought it was a great trick. The problem is I was bored. What he lacks, in my opinion, is showmanship.
Now if he had a face like the next act, you'd have to love him. Gabe Rock, rawks. The humor this cute little bull dog brought to the act, was a good choice. Oh wait, his trainer created the act. Who was she anyways? "What does Piers do when he doesn't like an act?" she asked. Gabe buzzed the buzzer. But hiking his leg on a cardboard cut-out of Piers was what I'm sure a lot of acts would like to do. Who doesn't like doggies? Cat lovers most probably.
There are so many acrobatic acts that Aeon, from L.A. has a lot of competition, even though I've yet to see another free running dance group on AGT. What they lack in talent, they make up for in energy.
I remember the little southern miss from her YouTube audition. And I agreed with the judges that Breena Bell from Alabama could see the Olympics in her future, but doesn't stand a chance on AGT.
The male singer competition isn't overwhelming this season so, who knows, the Texan, Kevin Colis, might stand a chance. He's not a Michael Grimm, but then there's only one of him. I'm not a big fan of The Lazy Song, although he did hit and sustain the final high note flawlessly.
Next up was a 14 year old dancer from Alabama, Beth Ann Robinson. When I watched her YouTube performance I thought she had talent, but with the drama and emotion she brought to the act to tell a story...well, it was pretty awesome. And the kid can dance.
Gymkana an acrobatic team from MD did their stunts to Lady Gaga's "On the Edge." They're an incredibly talented ladder act that not only has to have balance, coordination and perfect timing, but complete TRUST in the dude that holds up the ladders. Obviously, I wouldn't make the act, because I don't trust anyone.
What kid wouldn't wanna be surrounded by gorgeous girls? Well, maybe not all guys. With a name like Kalani, you'd have to be from Hawaii, right? The gorgeous girls, who danced around while he played with his balls - oh did I mention he does a freestyle basketball act? - looked nervous as hell. Howie described him as a one-man Harlem Globetrotter act. It's interesting to watch, but what other tricks can he do? I mean the Globetrotters can at least play basketball.
West Springfield Dance Team bills themselves as hip hop dancers, but it didn't look hip hop to me. Although the choreography, with their vampire-ish look and contacts that made their eyes translucent was different, it didn't scare me at all. They have one really good move; however, the competition in this category is plentiful.
The guy that got the most YouTube votes hails from my hometown, Chicago. When I saw Matt Whilhelm's YouTube audition I wasn't too impressed. Seems everyone these days wants to glow in the dark. His bicycle glowed and was extremely talented, too. I never saw a bicycle break dance by itself. Oh wait! He was on it doing the tricks, but you couldn't see him? Ohhhhhhhhh I get it now. So when he appeared spinning in thin air, the bicycle was just blacked out? Unfortunately, I didn't even realize that his costume was the innards of a human that glowed in the dark, because it didn't.
Lastly, a high school choir from California, Powerhouse. It's a different kind of choir that makes you want to be happy and makes you feel like singing? Okay. The choir in the movie Sister Act made me happier and made me feel like singing. This choir, not too much.
So, which four of the above acts do you think will make it to the semis? There's certainly no Jackie Evancho there and with the exception of Beth Ann Robinson, I don't see any of them going to the finals.
That's my take on the YouTube performers, but before I log off a warm welcome to my newest viewer, Leslie and thanks for following. :)
Thursday, August 4, 2011
The Starcraft Community - Surprising Turn
I'm almost hesitant to express my opinion, but hell I've been wrong before when I jumped to conclusions and I'm feeling hopeful so, I'm gonna go for it!
I've made so many posts about the BM and hate that goes on in the Starcraft Community as a whole and that's like saying a Mexican robbed me, so all Mexicans are thieves. It's just wrong!
I've praised It's Gosu as having a group of the nicest people in the gaming community and I've yet to change my mind about that. Yeah, there's going to be an idiot every now and then, but overall they're pretty damn nice.
Voss is one of their regular posters. He has a blog on It's Gosu @ http://www.itsgosu.com/game/sc2/blogs/my-life-as-a-gamer-12_97 He also streams @ http://www.twitch.tv/voss423# And he's the mod for It's Gosu streams.
He's one of the nice guys. A hardcore gamer, (When he's not in school)who has plans for his future, which include enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. He expressed his discontent with the online BM in a comment to one of my posts and offered suggestions to avoid the haters.
Lately, I've read a lot of posts on Team Liquid with guys who take exception to the BM in the community. Naturally, these posts make me smile with the thought that there is hope for the future.
Something took place, recently, that involved Boxer's (the grandfather at 30 of e-sports) team, SlayerS. They recruited a female, Eve, to play on their all male team. After numerous slurs and, from what I read, pornographic pics Photoshopped, Jessica, Boxer's wife and manager of SlayerS, took a stand to defend Eve and the team. She was met with criticism, but more of the comments in the TL thread supported her decision to post their side of the story and expose these trolls for what they are.
For those of you, who say "Don't feed the trolls," "Ignore the haters," I say, wrong! It's my contention that once these low self-esteemed dudes, who have nothing better to do than to harass those who enjoy RTS and want to have fun, realize that their kind are frowned upon in the community and unwelcome, they will start to disappear or better yet, manner up.
Amirite? I dare anyone to disagree. lol
I've made so many posts about the BM and hate that goes on in the Starcraft Community as a whole and that's like saying a Mexican robbed me, so all Mexicans are thieves. It's just wrong!
I've praised It's Gosu as having a group of the nicest people in the gaming community and I've yet to change my mind about that. Yeah, there's going to be an idiot every now and then, but overall they're pretty damn nice.
Voss is one of their regular posters. He has a blog on It's Gosu @ http://www.itsgosu.com/game/sc2/blogs/my-life-as-a-gamer-12_97 He also streams @ http://www.twitch.tv/voss423# And he's the mod for It's Gosu streams.
He's one of the nice guys. A hardcore gamer, (When he's not in school)who has plans for his future, which include enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. He expressed his discontent with the online BM in a comment to one of my posts and offered suggestions to avoid the haters.
Lately, I've read a lot of posts on Team Liquid with guys who take exception to the BM in the community. Naturally, these posts make me smile with the thought that there is hope for the future.
Something took place, recently, that involved Boxer's (the grandfather at 30 of e-sports) team, SlayerS. They recruited a female, Eve, to play on their all male team. After numerous slurs and, from what I read, pornographic pics Photoshopped, Jessica, Boxer's wife and manager of SlayerS, took a stand to defend Eve and the team. She was met with criticism, but more of the comments in the TL thread supported her decision to post their side of the story and expose these trolls for what they are.
For those of you, who say "Don't feed the trolls," "Ignore the haters," I say, wrong! It's my contention that once these low self-esteemed dudes, who have nothing better to do than to harass those who enjoy RTS and want to have fun, realize that their kind are frowned upon in the community and unwelcome, they will start to disappear or better yet, manner up.
Amirite? I dare anyone to disagree. lol
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
America's Got Talent - The Results 8-3-11
Maybe it's just my mood tonight, but I was disappointed with the show. Not 100% sure about who America voted into the semifinals, and the talent portion of the show was a let down.
Now mind you, I like Maroon 5, but "Moves Like Jagger" annoyed the heck out of me. And any other time I probably would have liked Jason Derulo's performance. I didn't see the whole act, but "Don't Want To Go Home" did nuttin for me.
The first act that America voted through was Fatally Unique. They worked hard and showed a lot of improvement so, yeah, they deserve to at least get to the semis.
When Zuma Zuma and Yellow Design were both called to the stage, I figured they both won the votes of America. Yellow Design is BMX at its finest and Zuma Zuma is phenomenal entertainment - definitely Vegas. Regretfully, Nick wasn't trickin' the audience this time. Only one act went through and that was Zuma Zuma.
It was a no brainer as I watched three acts standing on stage anxiously awaiting their fate. So it was no surpise when Scott Alexander and SamB lost out to Team iLuminate.
I wasn't too shocked either that the Kinetic King didn't get voted through, but it was anyone's guess who the judges might vote through between Peachock and Melissa Villasenor.
Peachock had performed some spectacularly entertaining routines in the past and whilst bouncing balls on the piano didn't seem stupendous, I'd venture to say that it wasn't an easy task.
Villasenor was so clever and funny the first time around that last night's performance was, in comparison, average.
In the end, the judges went with the act they thought would make it to the finals and that was Melissa Villasenor.
Next week are the youtube competitions. It's amazing to me that AGT found 12 acts out of the 20 I saw.
Now mind you, I like Maroon 5, but "Moves Like Jagger" annoyed the heck out of me. And any other time I probably would have liked Jason Derulo's performance. I didn't see the whole act, but "Don't Want To Go Home" did nuttin for me.
The first act that America voted through was Fatally Unique. They worked hard and showed a lot of improvement so, yeah, they deserve to at least get to the semis.
When Zuma Zuma and Yellow Design were both called to the stage, I figured they both won the votes of America. Yellow Design is BMX at its finest and Zuma Zuma is phenomenal entertainment - definitely Vegas. Regretfully, Nick wasn't trickin' the audience this time. Only one act went through and that was Zuma Zuma.
It was a no brainer as I watched three acts standing on stage anxiously awaiting their fate. So it was no surpise when Scott Alexander and SamB lost out to Team iLuminate.
I wasn't too shocked either that the Kinetic King didn't get voted through, but it was anyone's guess who the judges might vote through between Peachock and Melissa Villasenor.
Peachock had performed some spectacularly entertaining routines in the past and whilst bouncing balls on the piano didn't seem stupendous, I'd venture to say that it wasn't an easy task.
Villasenor was so clever and funny the first time around that last night's performance was, in comparison, average.
In the end, the judges went with the act they thought would make it to the finals and that was Melissa Villasenor.
Next week are the youtube competitions. It's amazing to me that AGT found 12 acts out of the 20 I saw.
America's Got Talent 8-2-11 - The Final 12 of 48
If, according to Howie, this was the best season ever then I'm glad I missed previous seasons. We've seen some pretty untalented people make it to Hollywood. *Thinks about the Roping Cowboy and his horse. Nevertheless, America has voted through some damn good acts, with the exception of a man diving into a kiddies pool. Anyway, tonight was the last of the 48 to perform and it began with a disappointing FAIL!
The Kinetic King, from Minnesota spent 36 hours setting up his tongue depressors and other objects to form a colorful and exciting chain reaction that turned out something like a frigid wife...it was just unresponsive to his touch.
He looked confused and kept trying, but it was a big fail. Unfortunately, his is the kind of act where you don't get a rehearsal. And, whilst I feel for him, who's going to spend money to watch his act in Vegas?
Following his fiasco, Zuma Zuma, an exciting act that incorporates dance and acrobatics with an element of danger, performed.
Then came the chipmunks, who could put a diabetic in a coma with their sweetness - Avery and the Calico Hearts, from Texas. Actually, y'all will probably be seeing them with their own Saturday morning kid's show.
Jugglers are boring, unless of course they're exciting. lol I mean, if you don't bring something different to the act, all you have is someone repeatedly throwing things up in the air and catching' em before they hit the ground. Frankly, I think Charles Peachock is entertaining. I've never seen a juggler play piano with his balls. First he juggled them to Can Can and then Jail House Rock, and he didn't miss a beat.
Someone else who doesn't miss a beat is the crazy, but likeable SamB, from Virginia. He has his own style of dance and the SamB moves. Not a million dollar act, but certainly entertaining. I think he's already a cult figure.
What I decided tonight is that Piers is tone deaf. He accused Taylor Davis, the vocalist/guitar player, from Georgia, that he was off key. Hello? He performed Falling Slowly from the movie Once.. Don't know if he has spectacular range, like Sharon said. His rendition sounded very similar to Kris Allen's from American Idol.
The biggest disappointment for me was Melissa Villasenor, the comic/impressionist from California. Her first (and only performance, Piers) was clever and funny and her impressions were right on target. It's my contention that if an impersonator has to preface who they're impersonating, the impression is probably not too good. And, yeah, if she hadn't told me who they were, I probably wouldn't have guessed one of them. Plus she wasn't funny tonight. :(
Aretha Franklin's hit Think (Freedom) sung by a choir of gospel singers, brought life to the act of the illusionist from PA., Scott Alexander. At his last performance, the judges claimed he lacked showmanship. Well, he livened up the stage this time. The choir sang their way onto a platform where a curtain was dropped to cover them, and POOF! they were gone. No they didn't go to heaven, but they rose to a state box in the audience to finish the song. Awesome cool.
Fatally Unique from Rockford, Illinois was up next. A bunch of street kids who formed a gang to dance. Sweet. And this time up, they're choreography was a lot more organized.
One of the most dangerous acts to perform came to us from Denver. A group of stunt cyclists (bicycles that is) called Yellow Design Stunt Team. The act is exciting and fun to watch, but their performance tonight was colorfully and creatively staged. And even though one guy fell toward the end of the routine - and i'm like ouch - he survived unscathed... I think.
But they weren't the only risk takers on the show. Frank (I wanna die) Miles is the ultimate stuntman. He challenges death for crying out loud. I'd actually like to see tonight's performance in slo-mo. Talk about chain reactions - he sets five crossbows into action by shooting at the first. The fifth one was supposed to have gone through a jelly doughnut attached to his head. It missed the target, but only by a silly little millimeter. Fortunately, the doughnut lived. What sets him apart from other stunt persons is his sense of humor.
Last on the agenda and the most impressive - I'm talking standing O even from Piers - was Team iLuminate. The first time I saw them, I thought they're just copying Fighting Gravity, but tonight it was apparent that they're nothing like them - except for the fact that they dance in the dark. I'm still not sure how the technology works to light their costumes up at the appropriate time, but it's awesome to watch.
It's going to be difficult to chose four acts from tonight's venue, but it would be nice to choose five and kick out Professor Splash. lol
The Kinetic King, from Minnesota spent 36 hours setting up his tongue depressors and other objects to form a colorful and exciting chain reaction that turned out something like a frigid wife...it was just unresponsive to his touch.
He looked confused and kept trying, but it was a big fail. Unfortunately, his is the kind of act where you don't get a rehearsal. And, whilst I feel for him, who's going to spend money to watch his act in Vegas?
Following his fiasco, Zuma Zuma, an exciting act that incorporates dance and acrobatics with an element of danger, performed.
Then came the chipmunks, who could put a diabetic in a coma with their sweetness - Avery and the Calico Hearts, from Texas. Actually, y'all will probably be seeing them with their own Saturday morning kid's show.
Jugglers are boring, unless of course they're exciting. lol I mean, if you don't bring something different to the act, all you have is someone repeatedly throwing things up in the air and catching' em before they hit the ground. Frankly, I think Charles Peachock is entertaining. I've never seen a juggler play piano with his balls. First he juggled them to Can Can and then Jail House Rock, and he didn't miss a beat.
Someone else who doesn't miss a beat is the crazy, but likeable SamB, from Virginia. He has his own style of dance and the SamB moves. Not a million dollar act, but certainly entertaining. I think he's already a cult figure.
What I decided tonight is that Piers is tone deaf. He accused Taylor Davis, the vocalist/guitar player, from Georgia, that he was off key. Hello? He performed Falling Slowly from the movie Once.. Don't know if he has spectacular range, like Sharon said. His rendition sounded very similar to Kris Allen's from American Idol.
The biggest disappointment for me was Melissa Villasenor, the comic/impressionist from California. Her first (and only performance, Piers) was clever and funny and her impressions were right on target. It's my contention that if an impersonator has to preface who they're impersonating, the impression is probably not too good. And, yeah, if she hadn't told me who they were, I probably wouldn't have guessed one of them. Plus she wasn't funny tonight. :(
Aretha Franklin's hit Think (Freedom) sung by a choir of gospel singers, brought life to the act of the illusionist from PA., Scott Alexander. At his last performance, the judges claimed he lacked showmanship. Well, he livened up the stage this time. The choir sang their way onto a platform where a curtain was dropped to cover them, and POOF! they were gone. No they didn't go to heaven, but they rose to a state box in the audience to finish the song. Awesome cool.
Fatally Unique from Rockford, Illinois was up next. A bunch of street kids who formed a gang to dance. Sweet. And this time up, they're choreography was a lot more organized.
One of the most dangerous acts to perform came to us from Denver. A group of stunt cyclists (bicycles that is) called Yellow Design Stunt Team. The act is exciting and fun to watch, but their performance tonight was colorfully and creatively staged. And even though one guy fell toward the end of the routine - and i'm like ouch - he survived unscathed... I think.
But they weren't the only risk takers on the show. Frank (I wanna die) Miles is the ultimate stuntman. He challenges death for crying out loud. I'd actually like to see tonight's performance in slo-mo. Talk about chain reactions - he sets five crossbows into action by shooting at the first. The fifth one was supposed to have gone through a jelly doughnut attached to his head. It missed the target, but only by a silly little millimeter. Fortunately, the doughnut lived. What sets him apart from other stunt persons is his sense of humor.
Last on the agenda and the most impressive - I'm talking standing O even from Piers - was Team iLuminate. The first time I saw them, I thought they're just copying Fighting Gravity, but tonight it was apparent that they're nothing like them - except for the fact that they dance in the dark. I'm still not sure how the technology works to light their costumes up at the appropriate time, but it's awesome to watch.
It's going to be difficult to chose four acts from tonight's venue, but it would be nice to choose five and kick out Professor Splash. lol
Monday, August 1, 2011
Starcraft II MLG - Anaheim
Anaheim was filled with action and excitement as crowds amassed to watch and support their favorite players this weekend. I watched - like thousands of others - via MLG's streams. I watched and laughed at some of the signs I read as cameras panned the pack of gatherers. One sign made me laugh out loud...NERF KOREANS!
There were only a few matches that I cared to watch and I'm thinking that you didn't even have to watch to know the Koreans were going to go back home winners. Nevertheless, watching the strats and builds was well worth the time.
MLG opened the event with Naniwa v Huk, (who has been doing a bang up job lately) on the Red Team and Dong Rae Gu v TLO on the Blue Team. Both Huk and DRG took their opponents 2-0. No biggie for the losers, because these games were pool play (you know the dudes that swim whilst open bracket players work their asses off).
I'm going to interject this before continuing. With 256 players, MLG has to have rules. But excuse me, if it weren't for the open bracket players, who pay $70. to compete, there wouldn't be an MLG.
Starcraft is suppose to be fun, but too many complaints from both previous MLGs and this last one have been reported about the grueling schedule of the open bracket and the disrespect shown to open bracket players. (i.e. Not allowed a potty break, no time to eat or get something to drink, being DQd if you're a minute later than the 10 minute allotted time, way less than eight hours sleep, etc.)
Granted, with that many people, a rigid schedule has to be enforced. It's a marathon and the players that make it through have to have stamina in addition to excellent skills, and maybe a bit of luck. Still, they deserve as much respect as the "Star" players. If MLG can't afford to give them that respect, perhaps MLG should consider lowering the number of entrants. Just my opinion.
Like I said, there were only a few games that interested me. One was Idra v Boxer. We all know Idra's weakness is his own self, so I cheered on Boxer. And whilst in game two Idra displayed incredible defense, Boxer, with his perfect timing and game skills took the Zerg, 2-0. Yay!
Obviously, the Koreans dominate the game; nevertheless, I was really rooting for Boxer and the whole SlayerS team. Whilst I knew that the Koreans would outdo everyone there, I still wanted the It's Gosu team to go far and the Reign team to go home with their heads hung low. I think I got my wish. :D
Whilst Rumcake (I've said this before and I'll say it again, It's Gosu should have a player named Coke to go with the Rum. hehe) and linkO, from It's Gosu, went to the loser's bracket pretty quickly; Pokebunny, Sonkie and wbc fared better.
LinkO did much better in the loser's bracket as did Poke and Sonkie, but wbc was the one It's Gosu team member to make it out of the open brackets. And when it was announced that he eliminated Spades...well I just smiled. Woohoo! He got to go swim in the pool with the big boys.
During the Incontrol v Boxer game on Day two of the event, I was glued to the screen and cheering on...guess who? That wasn't even a fair game. lol Incontrol was, of course, being his greedy self, but Boxer caught him off guard several times and in game two forced him into passivity. Yeah, Boxer took him 2-0. Duh!
I think one of the most exciting games of the whole event was Rain, who struggled through the lower brackets to face Boxer. Okay, I'm just gonna say this now. If I were a gamer, I'd be in awe of Boxer. Over 30 years old, he's like the grandfather of Starcraft and e-sports, in general. Can't even imagine facing him in a competition.
Okay okay back to the Rain v Boxer match. The first game was an hour long. OMG! I thought I was watching avilo play. lol. Rain had some vulnerabilities, but was playing strong and took the first game from Boxer. Huh? Is that possible? You'd have to feel proud at that point. But even though Boxer lost the first game, he emerged the victor. Watching him defend and attack simultaneously was exhilarating.
At one point Boxer, a really nice guy, said, "I not this good, but because of all your cheers, I am better." awwww.
When it came near the end, Boxer, the master, had to play his grasshopper, MMA, the winner of MLG-Columbus. Was Boxer right when he said, MLG-Anaheim will be known as SlayerS MLG? Along with DRG and MVP, still standing were SlayerS Boxer, SlayerS MMA, and SlayerS Ganzi. Hmmmm.
It was hard watching MMA take Boxer; but proud of his apprentice, Boxer exited the booth with a great big smile. The Grand Finals was a match between SlayerS MMA and IMMVP. If MMA had won the BO3, it would have gone to a BO7. But the victor and champion of MLG - Anaheim was MVP.
I'm thinking that Koreans aren't going to be nerfed, but Terrans might. The only non-Terran to make it into the champion brackets was DongRaeGu, a zerg. But let's face it, Koreans have had the advantage of pro-housing and not having to worry about anything but practicing 10 to 12 hrs. a day for a lot longer than EU or US.
So, I'm disappointed for SlayerS team, but thrilled that Boxer showed these yungins what it's all about; happy that everyone had fun, unhappy that open bracket players don't get more respect and better treatment; all smiles that Reign didn't do that well, ecstatic that It's Gosu done good.
Props to Cruncher, Rain, Ganzi and Tyler for fighting their way into the pool and to Attero, wbc, White-Ra and MToD, who, with absolute determination and skill, battled through the loser's bracket victorious.
For all the details check out:
http://pro.majorleaguegaming.com/
There were only a few matches that I cared to watch and I'm thinking that you didn't even have to watch to know the Koreans were going to go back home winners. Nevertheless, watching the strats and builds was well worth the time.
MLG opened the event with Naniwa v Huk, (who has been doing a bang up job lately) on the Red Team and Dong Rae Gu v TLO on the Blue Team. Both Huk and DRG took their opponents 2-0. No biggie for the losers, because these games were pool play (you know the dudes that swim whilst open bracket players work their asses off).
I'm going to interject this before continuing. With 256 players, MLG has to have rules. But excuse me, if it weren't for the open bracket players, who pay $70. to compete, there wouldn't be an MLG.
Starcraft is suppose to be fun, but too many complaints from both previous MLGs and this last one have been reported about the grueling schedule of the open bracket and the disrespect shown to open bracket players. (i.e. Not allowed a potty break, no time to eat or get something to drink, being DQd if you're a minute later than the 10 minute allotted time, way less than eight hours sleep, etc.)
Granted, with that many people, a rigid schedule has to be enforced. It's a marathon and the players that make it through have to have stamina in addition to excellent skills, and maybe a bit of luck. Still, they deserve as much respect as the "Star" players. If MLG can't afford to give them that respect, perhaps MLG should consider lowering the number of entrants. Just my opinion.
Like I said, there were only a few games that interested me. One was Idra v Boxer. We all know Idra's weakness is his own self, so I cheered on Boxer. And whilst in game two Idra displayed incredible defense, Boxer, with his perfect timing and game skills took the Zerg, 2-0. Yay!
Obviously, the Koreans dominate the game; nevertheless, I was really rooting for Boxer and the whole SlayerS team. Whilst I knew that the Koreans would outdo everyone there, I still wanted the It's Gosu team to go far and the Reign team to go home with their heads hung low. I think I got my wish. :D
Whilst Rumcake (I've said this before and I'll say it again, It's Gosu should have a player named Coke to go with the Rum. hehe) and linkO, from It's Gosu, went to the loser's bracket pretty quickly; Pokebunny, Sonkie and wbc fared better.
LinkO did much better in the loser's bracket as did Poke and Sonkie, but wbc was the one It's Gosu team member to make it out of the open brackets. And when it was announced that he eliminated Spades...well I just smiled. Woohoo! He got to go swim in the pool with the big boys.
During the Incontrol v Boxer game on Day two of the event, I was glued to the screen and cheering on...guess who? That wasn't even a fair game. lol Incontrol was, of course, being his greedy self, but Boxer caught him off guard several times and in game two forced him into passivity. Yeah, Boxer took him 2-0. Duh!
I think one of the most exciting games of the whole event was Rain, who struggled through the lower brackets to face Boxer. Okay, I'm just gonna say this now. If I were a gamer, I'd be in awe of Boxer. Over 30 years old, he's like the grandfather of Starcraft and e-sports, in general. Can't even imagine facing him in a competition.
Okay okay back to the Rain v Boxer match. The first game was an hour long. OMG! I thought I was watching avilo play. lol. Rain had some vulnerabilities, but was playing strong and took the first game from Boxer. Huh? Is that possible? You'd have to feel proud at that point. But even though Boxer lost the first game, he emerged the victor. Watching him defend and attack simultaneously was exhilarating.
At one point Boxer, a really nice guy, said, "I not this good, but because of all your cheers, I am better." awwww.
When it came near the end, Boxer, the master, had to play his grasshopper, MMA, the winner of MLG-Columbus. Was Boxer right when he said, MLG-Anaheim will be known as SlayerS MLG? Along with DRG and MVP, still standing were SlayerS Boxer, SlayerS MMA, and SlayerS Ganzi. Hmmmm.
It was hard watching MMA take Boxer; but proud of his apprentice, Boxer exited the booth with a great big smile. The Grand Finals was a match between SlayerS MMA and IMMVP. If MMA had won the BO3, it would have gone to a BO7. But the victor and champion of MLG - Anaheim was MVP.
I'm thinking that Koreans aren't going to be nerfed, but Terrans might. The only non-Terran to make it into the champion brackets was DongRaeGu, a zerg. But let's face it, Koreans have had the advantage of pro-housing and not having to worry about anything but practicing 10 to 12 hrs. a day for a lot longer than EU or US.
So, I'm disappointed for SlayerS team, but thrilled that Boxer showed these yungins what it's all about; happy that everyone had fun, unhappy that open bracket players don't get more respect and better treatment; all smiles that Reign didn't do that well, ecstatic that It's Gosu done good.
Props to Cruncher, Rain, Ganzi and Tyler for fighting their way into the pool and to Attero, wbc, White-Ra and MToD, who, with absolute determination and skill, battled through the loser's bracket victorious.
For all the details check out:
http://pro.majorleaguegaming.com/
Friday, July 29, 2011
"Security" In Social Security
The definition of security, as a noun, is:
1. freedom from danger, risk, etc.; safety.
2. freedom from care, anxiety, or doubt
So why are seniors concerned that the government will not cover over $23. billion in Social Security checks on August 3? Y'all have been forced throughout your working lives to pay into this so-called "secure" retirement savings and now you're entitled to be reimbursed.
How dare the government take my money with the promise that, when I reach retirement, I will get it back in monthly installments and then renege on their promise? Oh wait, it's the government that's how.
The joke goes something like "How do you know when a politician is lying? He opens his mouth and speaks." Why is Obama using scare tactics to threaten seniors?
I'm outraged that the U.S. is $14.3 trillion in debt. I'm furious to think that you rich a**holes in government want to mess with social security. I'm livid that you want to play around with medicare, which already takes a big chunk from social security checks and offers so little in return that retired folks have to have a supplement to cover costs.
But angrier still after reading an article on MSN Money that ends with suggestions from "Roger D" in the BooMan Tribune. All I can say is, unless this was said in jest, Roger D is a complete idiot!!!!!!!!
1. Cancel services -- cable, cellphones, Internet, newspaper, books -- that were necessities yesterday but now are a luxury.
My response: Yes, all you elderly folks, a lot of whom are already isolated, discontinue everything that will keep you in contact with the outside world.
2. No new clothes.
My response: You never go anywhere anyway, right? WTF? Why in the world would you need anything but your birthday suit to run around the house? Ludicrous!
3. Eat at home, buy generic products at the cheapest grocery stores, and cook them yourself. Drink only water -- and from the tap.
My response: I know canned dog food is getting expensive, too. But hell, you don't have to buy the gourmet brands. What the hell are you thinking?
4. Cut the utility bills by turning off the AC and as many lights as possible, taking fewer baths and showers and unplugging unused devices.
My response: Please take heed to this great piece of advice, especially those of you, who live in the areas that have been experiencing three digit temperatures. You see, the elderly suffer the quickest from heat stroke; therefore, you won't have to worry about any of the above suggestions or those that follow, cuz y'all be dead. Plus you'll be doing the deficit a favor and you'll have the privilege of knowing that you died for your country.
5. Drive as little as possible.
My response: You don't have clothes anyway, (see suggestion #2) you can't eat out, (see suggestion #3) and unless you move to Venezuela, where a gallon of gas will only cost you $0.19/gallon, you really can't afford to drive. In addition, you're too old to drive and, therefore, a menace to society.
6. Sell some belongings. A yard sale might get you by for a couple of weeks.
My response: You know those precious trinkets and things that have sentimental value? Why are you intent on hanging onto them? After all, you won't be around much longer. (see suggestion #4) Do you really need your wedding ring from a gazillion years ago? Good grief, your spouse has been long gone!
7. Ask family and friends for help. These will be tough times, so don't be proud.
My response: The people that Roger D is referring to are those who are currently paying into Social Security for their retirement. That money, however, is currently supporting you, because the government already spent the money you donated. (I don't know this to be fact, but pretty funny thought) Yeah, family and friends want to support you twice. Bet you'll be surprised to know that "Nobody knows you when you're down and out."
In my opinion, seniors, who waited for the "golden years" are being screwed in every way possible. And you know why? Because government is certain that seniors are too old and decrepit to stand up and fight. Government thinks that seniors can't amass at the White House and revolt.
I've got news for you - seniors are fighters!
1. freedom from danger, risk, etc.; safety.
2. freedom from care, anxiety, or doubt
So why are seniors concerned that the government will not cover over $23. billion in Social Security checks on August 3? Y'all have been forced throughout your working lives to pay into this so-called "secure" retirement savings and now you're entitled to be reimbursed.
How dare the government take my money with the promise that, when I reach retirement, I will get it back in monthly installments and then renege on their promise? Oh wait, it's the government that's how.
The joke goes something like "How do you know when a politician is lying? He opens his mouth and speaks." Why is Obama using scare tactics to threaten seniors?
I'm outraged that the U.S. is $14.3 trillion in debt. I'm furious to think that you rich a**holes in government want to mess with social security. I'm livid that you want to play around with medicare, which already takes a big chunk from social security checks and offers so little in return that retired folks have to have a supplement to cover costs.
But angrier still after reading an article on MSN Money that ends with suggestions from "Roger D" in the BooMan Tribune. All I can say is, unless this was said in jest, Roger D is a complete idiot!!!!!!!!
1. Cancel services -- cable, cellphones, Internet, newspaper, books -- that were necessities yesterday but now are a luxury.
My response: Yes, all you elderly folks, a lot of whom are already isolated, discontinue everything that will keep you in contact with the outside world.
2. No new clothes.
My response: You never go anywhere anyway, right? WTF? Why in the world would you need anything but your birthday suit to run around the house? Ludicrous!
3. Eat at home, buy generic products at the cheapest grocery stores, and cook them yourself. Drink only water -- and from the tap.
My response: I know canned dog food is getting expensive, too. But hell, you don't have to buy the gourmet brands. What the hell are you thinking?
4. Cut the utility bills by turning off the AC and as many lights as possible, taking fewer baths and showers and unplugging unused devices.
My response: Please take heed to this great piece of advice, especially those of you, who live in the areas that have been experiencing three digit temperatures. You see, the elderly suffer the quickest from heat stroke; therefore, you won't have to worry about any of the above suggestions or those that follow, cuz y'all be dead. Plus you'll be doing the deficit a favor and you'll have the privilege of knowing that you died for your country.
5. Drive as little as possible.
My response: You don't have clothes anyway, (see suggestion #2) you can't eat out, (see suggestion #3) and unless you move to Venezuela, where a gallon of gas will only cost you $0.19/gallon, you really can't afford to drive. In addition, you're too old to drive and, therefore, a menace to society.
6. Sell some belongings. A yard sale might get you by for a couple of weeks.
My response: You know those precious trinkets and things that have sentimental value? Why are you intent on hanging onto them? After all, you won't be around much longer. (see suggestion #4) Do you really need your wedding ring from a gazillion years ago? Good grief, your spouse has been long gone!
7. Ask family and friends for help. These will be tough times, so don't be proud.
My response: The people that Roger D is referring to are those who are currently paying into Social Security for their retirement. That money, however, is currently supporting you, because the government already spent the money you donated. (I don't know this to be fact, but pretty funny thought) Yeah, family and friends want to support you twice. Bet you'll be surprised to know that "Nobody knows you when you're down and out."
In my opinion, seniors, who waited for the "golden years" are being screwed in every way possible. And you know why? Because government is certain that seniors are too old and decrepit to stand up and fight. Government thinks that seniors can't amass at the White House and revolt.
I've got news for you - seniors are fighters!
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
America's Got Talent 7/27/11 - The Four Winners in the Quarter Finals
Tonight had to be my favorite show of the whole season - from beginning to end. How could it lose? The legendary Stevie Nicks performed, along with one of the most unique acts of last year - Fighting Gravity.
Fighting Gravity was one of my favorite acts last year, but Stevie Nicks topped them tonight; not with "For What It's Worth," a song from her newest album In Your Dreams, and not with the classic, "Edge of 17," either. She got my vote as number one performer of the night, because she announced that she hired Michael Grimm from last season to be her opening act on tour. WOOT!
But y'all are probably reading this to see who moved on to the semi finals, right? :D
It was surprising to me to see Ian Johnson, Summerwind Skippers and Purrfect Angelz all called to the stage. My first reaction was,"Huh?" Yeah, I thought America had lost their minds, until Nick said that none of 'em were going through. Another WOOT!
So, when Poplyfe and Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr. (who has to shorten his name) were called on stage, I knew they were both going through, even before it was announced.
Then came four - Mauricio Herrera, Lys Agnes, Captain & Maybelle and Monet. There was no question in my mind which one of these performers were voted through.
But the last three, Professor Splash, Sh'Boss Boys and Seth Grabel? Well even last night I didn't have a clue. When the Sh'Boss Boys were voted off, it was between the two circus acts, and the judges voted for Professor Splash.
Next week will bring the last 12 performers before the semi finals. Hmmmm...I just might do a poll at that point. Maybe I should do a poll as to whether or not you'd like to see a poll? Nah! Just LOL!
Fighting Gravity was one of my favorite acts last year, but Stevie Nicks topped them tonight; not with "For What It's Worth," a song from her newest album In Your Dreams, and not with the classic, "Edge of 17," either. She got my vote as number one performer of the night, because she announced that she hired Michael Grimm from last season to be her opening act on tour. WOOT!
But y'all are probably reading this to see who moved on to the semi finals, right? :D
It was surprising to me to see Ian Johnson, Summerwind Skippers and Purrfect Angelz all called to the stage. My first reaction was,"Huh?" Yeah, I thought America had lost their minds, until Nick said that none of 'em were going through. Another WOOT!
So, when Poplyfe and Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr. (who has to shorten his name) were called on stage, I knew they were both going through, even before it was announced.
Then came four - Mauricio Herrera, Lys Agnes, Captain & Maybelle and Monet. There was no question in my mind which one of these performers were voted through.
But the last three, Professor Splash, Sh'Boss Boys and Seth Grabel? Well even last night I didn't have a clue. When the Sh'Boss Boys were voted off, it was between the two circus acts, and the judges voted for Professor Splash.
Next week will bring the last 12 performers before the semi finals. Hmmmm...I just might do a poll at that point. Maybe I should do a poll as to whether or not you'd like to see a poll? Nah! Just LOL!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
America's Got Talent 7-26-11 - Twelve Performers Fight to Win
Another exciting night on America's Got Talent. Now I know why, in the past, I've only watched starting with the quarter finals. lol
The first act on stage was a group of jump ropers from Boise, Idaho.Summerwind Skippers are fun to watch and their choreography is great. Still, I don't know if I'd pay to watch them jump rope as headliners in Vegas.
It's kind of like the YoYo Kid, Ian Johnson, although Summerwind didn't make as many mistakes as the kid from Hebron, Illinois. As skilled a yoyo-ist as he might be, I'm not shelling out big bucks to see the act.
Now, I might pay to see Sh'Boss Boys. LOL! How cute can you get? The rappers, 5, 6, and 7 years old, from Atlanta, are more then precious little boys, they're talented.
Mauricio Herrera, from Cali, is a consummate entertainer, who offers lots of fun in his act, but does he have the voice to go with the show? In my opinion, he didn't perform Viva Las Vegas as well as Elvis, and didn't come close to Tom Jones, when he sang Delilah. So I ain't giving him a million bucks.
A magician/stunt person, Seth Grabel, from L.A. gave a dramatic Houdini-esque performance, but to me the trick was obvious. He hung upside down in a straight-jacket, over a tank of boiling tar whilst a sawmill type blade threatened to cut through the beam from which he hung.
With a black hood on his head, he began to free himself before the blade even started turning. Once freed, he fell into the boiling hot tar. Don't think so! But someone covered in feathers came from the tank and was carried into a cannon and then shot into a tank of water, where the sans feathered Seth appeared. Sorry, more of a circus act to me.
There were a couple more circus acts, as well. Captain and Maybelle, from Georgia, are just too yucky to watch. Forget the circus, it's a side-show act. Of course when Piers mentioned disgusting, the disgusting duo hi 5'd each other. lol I don't want to go to Vegas to see someone with hooks in their eyelids, nose or tongue.
Professor Splash, a 50 year old, from Denver, who jumped from 36 ft 7 in high into a 12 in deep pool of water at 40 mph is exciting. Nevertheless, it screams circus to me. Even if he loses, he's set a world record.
Oakland, California brought us a band that is better than some professional bands. Poplyfe was so good tonight that Piers retracted his former statement about the lead singer's "I don't go without my brothers" band. They are the epitome of superstars and deserved the standing ovation they received.
And who cleans up real good? Well that be Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr, from West Virginia. He's got "Pizazz" all right. When he sang "Fly Me to the Moon" he actually sang to me, the audience. So, add charisma to his great vocals. Even if he doesn't win it all, I'm certain he'll never wash another car.
Another vocalist, 12 year old, Monet, from N.C. sang "Home." Something that her family lost in 2005 due to a storm. She sings with feeling, but lacks emotion - if that makes any sense. The start was rough, but she ended on a high-note. Nevertheless, I agree with the judges, who pointed out that she wasn't pitch perfect and isn't ready for the big time.
Lys Agnes, an opera singer, from Denver, who lost her significant other a couple years ago, is not only beautiful, but performed Carmen's "Habanera" exquisitely.
Of course, I can't forget the former professional cheerleaders, Purrfect Angelz, from Los Angeles, CA. The choreography was fun and they danced to one of my favorite songs - "Save a Horse and Ride a Cowboy." Mmmhmm - that's my motto, being such an animal lover. :D
There are three acts that I definitely want to see go to the semis: Lys Agnes, Poplyfe and Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr. Maybe the Sh'Boss Boys, but I have a feeling America is going to vote for one of the circus acts. Guess, we'll see tomorrow night.
The first act on stage was a group of jump ropers from Boise, Idaho.Summerwind Skippers are fun to watch and their choreography is great. Still, I don't know if I'd pay to watch them jump rope as headliners in Vegas.
It's kind of like the YoYo Kid, Ian Johnson, although Summerwind didn't make as many mistakes as the kid from Hebron, Illinois. As skilled a yoyo-ist as he might be, I'm not shelling out big bucks to see the act.
Now, I might pay to see Sh'Boss Boys. LOL! How cute can you get? The rappers, 5, 6, and 7 years old, from Atlanta, are more then precious little boys, they're talented.
Mauricio Herrera, from Cali, is a consummate entertainer, who offers lots of fun in his act, but does he have the voice to go with the show? In my opinion, he didn't perform Viva Las Vegas as well as Elvis, and didn't come close to Tom Jones, when he sang Delilah. So I ain't giving him a million bucks.
A magician/stunt person, Seth Grabel, from L.A. gave a dramatic Houdini-esque performance, but to me the trick was obvious. He hung upside down in a straight-jacket, over a tank of boiling tar whilst a sawmill type blade threatened to cut through the beam from which he hung.
With a black hood on his head, he began to free himself before the blade even started turning. Once freed, he fell into the boiling hot tar. Don't think so! But someone covered in feathers came from the tank and was carried into a cannon and then shot into a tank of water, where the sans feathered Seth appeared. Sorry, more of a circus act to me.
There were a couple more circus acts, as well. Captain and Maybelle, from Georgia, are just too yucky to watch. Forget the circus, it's a side-show act. Of course when Piers mentioned disgusting, the disgusting duo hi 5'd each other. lol I don't want to go to Vegas to see someone with hooks in their eyelids, nose or tongue.
Professor Splash, a 50 year old, from Denver, who jumped from 36 ft 7 in high into a 12 in deep pool of water at 40 mph is exciting. Nevertheless, it screams circus to me. Even if he loses, he's set a world record.
Oakland, California brought us a band that is better than some professional bands. Poplyfe was so good tonight that Piers retracted his former statement about the lead singer's "I don't go without my brothers" band. They are the epitome of superstars and deserved the standing ovation they received.
And who cleans up real good? Well that be Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr, from West Virginia. He's got "Pizazz" all right. When he sang "Fly Me to the Moon" he actually sang to me, the audience. So, add charisma to his great vocals. Even if he doesn't win it all, I'm certain he'll never wash another car.
Another vocalist, 12 year old, Monet, from N.C. sang "Home." Something that her family lost in 2005 due to a storm. She sings with feeling, but lacks emotion - if that makes any sense. The start was rough, but she ended on a high-note. Nevertheless, I agree with the judges, who pointed out that she wasn't pitch perfect and isn't ready for the big time.
Lys Agnes, an opera singer, from Denver, who lost her significant other a couple years ago, is not only beautiful, but performed Carmen's "Habanera" exquisitely.
Of course, I can't forget the former professional cheerleaders, Purrfect Angelz, from Los Angeles, CA. The choreography was fun and they danced to one of my favorite songs - "Save a Horse and Ride a Cowboy." Mmmhmm - that's my motto, being such an animal lover. :D
There are three acts that I definitely want to see go to the semis: Lys Agnes, Poplyfe and Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr. Maybe the Sh'Boss Boys, but I have a feeling America is going to vote for one of the circus acts. Guess, we'll see tomorrow night.
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