Last season on America's Got Talent, a little girl by the name of Jackie Evanco was discovered when AGT held they're YouTube auditions. Who'll be discovered this season?
Well, avilo and I watched all 20 and we both buzzed most of them faster than Piers buzzes the actual on stage acts. I won't say it wasn't fun, though. We laughed hysterically - avilo playing Piers and I playing Sharon.
What makes these people think they have million dollar talent is beyond me. I told avilo he could have done just as well with his "Funky Terran man" dance and his "Elmo on drugs" impersonation. lol
Seems too many people are jumping on the "Fighting Gravity" concept, as well.
We both gave Akata a chance, because they had good harmony and the finger snapping was cool, but after a while it became so annoying that we both wanted to throw rotten tomatoes at them.
Megan Pipus, another Youtuber, has a spectacular voice and rather than use a dummy to sing in her little duet, she should really go it alone.
Avilo liked Allie Bridges - duh. Doesn't take much to guess why. lol Actually, she wasn't bad, but come on - we're talking a million dollar act here.
Beth Ann Williams was agile and graceful with her choreographed acrobatic act, but again, no million bucks worth of talent. I might pay five bucks to see her in a school performance. Just like cute little Breena Bell, a tumbler.
Neither Avilo, nor I voted, simply because there was no "spectacular" act for whom to vote. If the YouTube auditions weren't making us laugh so hard, we probably wouldn't have watched after the first act.
And could someone tell me wtf was going on with Joe Ann and Kwiesi Davis?
If you need a good laugh, check out YouTube.com/AGT
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
America's Got Talent - But Where?
After watching so many no-talent acts, I think I've become tired. Hell, I don't even know which state AGT was in tonight.
I keep wondering, if they are showing us "bad" talent, how bad is the talent they're not showing us?
Seriously, when they announced tonight that next Tuesdays show will be in Vegas, I'm like, wait! What? Good grief, I don't recollect seeing any million dollar acts.
Tonight, they shot us through four acts that all received nos.
1. Eric and Chris, who sang catastrophically off key.
2. A hair hanger named Chris
3. The Painted Ladies, with big butts
4. Magic of Mystique
Then came three yes votes for Fatally Unique, a dance group ranging in ages from 13-22. When they were voted to Vegas, I thought to myself, Self, I do believe AGT is desperate for acts.
Others voted to go to Vegas were: Ian Johnson, a 16 year old; Tricky Jackson, a body builder; and an 18 year old, singer/guitar player named Taylor Davis. What, no Smith's?
Thankfully, Tomahawk Tassels didn't make it through. She was nothing more than a stripper and a bad one at that. I'm sure Vegas has enough strippers.
When she ended her act, holding an oar in front her topless self, Howie, in an attempt at humor, said, "I'd like a better look at that oar." He went on stage, turned her around, and took the oar. So not funny.
Then came the, "It's never too late" moment. Cindy Chang, a 42 year old housewife, who's dreamed of singing her whole life, performed. She's a giggly, shy little thing, and I figured she'd get booed off stage quickly.
So why was she getting such a late start? This is the part I hate - PARENTS! When Cindy was a kid all she ever wanted to do was sing. Her Asian parents flatly said, "NO!"
It wasn't until later in life that she began vocal training with a coach, who told her, "It's too late for you."
The music began and the audience sat in silence as Cindy sang an aria with beautiful precision. She barely finished the last note, when she broke down in tears.
God! I hope her dumb ass PARENTS were watching and then kicking each other in the ass.
Another good act was Mike Stone and the Critical Band, who performed the Banana Boat Song. They have talent, but a million dollars worth? *sighs*
And, excuse me, but how does someone who does three little card tricks manage to get voted to Vegas? Desperation, I tell you.
The Psychic Magician, Fantastic Fig and his cat, Newton, brought four girls on stage with him. But why? They were in no way relevant to the card tricks. So why were they on stage? Because, "They wanted to dance." Hello?
GTR, an acronym for Girls that Rock, were buzzed off shortly after the stage started trembling.
Still, I sat through it all. The final circus act, which blew the judges away with the "danger level," was a family of motor bike riding daredevils. The Fearless Flores Family, lock their kids - a boy, 8, and a girl, 13, - in the Globe of Death and whilst the Dad bravely stands in the middle, the kids go high speed, round and round, up and down.
Now, the dad claims that the boy started when he was four, so I guess the girl's been doing it since age nine. And I get it, I really do. Rather than give kids a sedative to calm them down, you get them so dizzy that they pass out. lol
The dad assured the judges that they all ride and eventually we'll see four bikes in the ball. WOW! I can't wait.
Anyway, I decided, as I watched the show, that this was the last time for me. Then they announce "Next week Vegas." Okay, I have to watch now. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!
Oh, and if you want to vote for your favorite YouTube act, go to youtube.com/AGT
I keep wondering, if they are showing us "bad" talent, how bad is the talent they're not showing us?
Seriously, when they announced tonight that next Tuesdays show will be in Vegas, I'm like, wait! What? Good grief, I don't recollect seeing any million dollar acts.
Tonight, they shot us through four acts that all received nos.
1. Eric and Chris, who sang catastrophically off key.
2. A hair hanger named Chris
3. The Painted Ladies, with big butts
4. Magic of Mystique
Then came three yes votes for Fatally Unique, a dance group ranging in ages from 13-22. When they were voted to Vegas, I thought to myself, Self, I do believe AGT is desperate for acts.
Others voted to go to Vegas were: Ian Johnson, a 16 year old; Tricky Jackson, a body builder; and an 18 year old, singer/guitar player named Taylor Davis. What, no Smith's?
Thankfully, Tomahawk Tassels didn't make it through. She was nothing more than a stripper and a bad one at that. I'm sure Vegas has enough strippers.
When she ended her act, holding an oar in front her topless self, Howie, in an attempt at humor, said, "I'd like a better look at that oar." He went on stage, turned her around, and took the oar. So not funny.
Then came the, "It's never too late" moment. Cindy Chang, a 42 year old housewife, who's dreamed of singing her whole life, performed. She's a giggly, shy little thing, and I figured she'd get booed off stage quickly.
So why was she getting such a late start? This is the part I hate - PARENTS! When Cindy was a kid all she ever wanted to do was sing. Her Asian parents flatly said, "NO!"
It wasn't until later in life that she began vocal training with a coach, who told her, "It's too late for you."
The music began and the audience sat in silence as Cindy sang an aria with beautiful precision. She barely finished the last note, when she broke down in tears.
God! I hope her dumb ass PARENTS were watching and then kicking each other in the ass.
Another good act was Mike Stone and the Critical Band, who performed the Banana Boat Song. They have talent, but a million dollars worth? *sighs*
And, excuse me, but how does someone who does three little card tricks manage to get voted to Vegas? Desperation, I tell you.
The Psychic Magician, Fantastic Fig and his cat, Newton, brought four girls on stage with him. But why? They were in no way relevant to the card tricks. So why were they on stage? Because, "They wanted to dance." Hello?
GTR, an acronym for Girls that Rock, were buzzed off shortly after the stage started trembling.
Still, I sat through it all. The final circus act, which blew the judges away with the "danger level," was a family of motor bike riding daredevils. The Fearless Flores Family, lock their kids - a boy, 8, and a girl, 13, - in the Globe of Death and whilst the Dad bravely stands in the middle, the kids go high speed, round and round, up and down.
Now, the dad claims that the boy started when he was four, so I guess the girl's been doing it since age nine. And I get it, I really do. Rather than give kids a sedative to calm them down, you get them so dizzy that they pass out. lol
The dad assured the judges that they all ride and eventually we'll see four bikes in the ball. WOW! I can't wait.
Anyway, I decided, as I watched the show, that this was the last time for me. Then they announce "Next week Vegas." Okay, I have to watch now. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!
Oh, and if you want to vote for your favorite YouTube act, go to youtube.com/AGT
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
America's Got Talent - Back to the Big Apple
You've seen back stage, I'm sure; the contestants waiting, hoping. Some talented, most not. Others completely absurd. So, with the acts they show, imagine what we, the viewing audience, have been spared. At this point, I'm feeling sorry for the judges, who can't escape any of it. Okay, it's their job - they get paid, but oh my.
Rak and Tak, a husband and wife team, who sang "Alone" excruciatingly off key, are in real life, doctors. When Nick asked the wife if she was a better singer or doctor, she replied, "Better singer."
Ummm...the last name is Khan (or Con lol). So, if you're ever in NY and need a doctor, stay away from the "K"s and the "C"s in the directory, just to be safe. With three no votes, they're still practicing - medicine.
The Smage Brothers, a motor bike act got three yes votes. Just hope the dude, who was used as a prop, was wearing a cup. One mistake and he's not going to be able to reproduce.
We saw three clips of entertainers - all voted to the next round. The Sally Gould Dancers, ages 11-13; Dylan Andre, a guitar playing singer; and Shenika Charles, who proved how low one actually can go, with her limbo.
Then they threw in a 75 year old muscleman by the name of Ed Cole. Sorry, Ed, but even all the booty shakin' and flexin' ain't gonna get you Vegas. Age doesn't always have privilege.
Sometimes, though, determination does. Leonid the Magnificent auditioned four years ago and was rejected. He gave up the thought of ever being an entertainer, but came back again with a whole new act - A quick change artist, who was impressive enough this time to get two yes votes to Vegas. Piers wasn't impressed.
He was, however, impressed with a young electric guitar playing singer. Her name is Rachael Zanstein and she's got a Drew Barrymore kind of personality. I mean you just have to love her - well, everyone did with the exception of Howie.
Maybe he felt something more profound. He said, "I don't think you're ready." She tells the story of a Connecticut girl gone bad; booze, drugs, etc. "Then I found music and it became my life blood." When Howie said "...you're not ready" I wonder if he meant, ready for success.
From a poignant moment, to a sadly ridiculous one, the next "performer" was the Naked Cowgirl, Sandy Kane, who sung to Nick, "I love Nick he's better than ice cream to lick." Of course, she received three no votes. Offstage Nick asked her, "Do you still love me?" She shouted back "NO." lol Guess sleeping your way to the top doesn't work so much anymore.
Two more clips of acts that didn't get voted through followed the Nick Licker Cowgirl. Satori, who was just strange, and Maya, who was even stranger.
Then came a dancer with more heads than I have personalities. Narcisster danced around the stage, doing acrobatics and exposing different heads, even one between her legs. Ummm... okay, I ain't going there. The only face she didn't expose was her own. Maybe that's why she was voted through.
The show ended with Sam B, who "Took the 'I' outta Sam and just used the first initial of my last name." Okay, he was funny and fun, but I was afraid with him dancin like he was "Barking mad" he was going to have a heart attack.
You'd think if anyone danced like that night after night in clubs, as he claims he does, he'd be thin as a pencil. He told Nick, before he went on that all the girls want to dance with him. When he asks for their number, though, it's a different story. "Some sneak out to the bathroom, others give me a wrong number. Sometimes, though, I get lucky."
Although he was unanimously voted through, Piers qualified his vote with, "You're brilliantly terrible."
Sorry, folks, but New York was a big disappointment for me. Start spreadin' the news.
Rak and Tak, a husband and wife team, who sang "Alone" excruciatingly off key, are in real life, doctors. When Nick asked the wife if she was a better singer or doctor, she replied, "Better singer."
Ummm...the last name is Khan (or Con lol). So, if you're ever in NY and need a doctor, stay away from the "K"s and the "C"s in the directory, just to be safe. With three no votes, they're still practicing - medicine.
The Smage Brothers, a motor bike act got three yes votes. Just hope the dude, who was used as a prop, was wearing a cup. One mistake and he's not going to be able to reproduce.
We saw three clips of entertainers - all voted to the next round. The Sally Gould Dancers, ages 11-13; Dylan Andre, a guitar playing singer; and Shenika Charles, who proved how low one actually can go, with her limbo.
Then they threw in a 75 year old muscleman by the name of Ed Cole. Sorry, Ed, but even all the booty shakin' and flexin' ain't gonna get you Vegas. Age doesn't always have privilege.
Sometimes, though, determination does. Leonid the Magnificent auditioned four years ago and was rejected. He gave up the thought of ever being an entertainer, but came back again with a whole new act - A quick change artist, who was impressive enough this time to get two yes votes to Vegas. Piers wasn't impressed.
He was, however, impressed with a young electric guitar playing singer. Her name is Rachael Zanstein and she's got a Drew Barrymore kind of personality. I mean you just have to love her - well, everyone did with the exception of Howie.
Maybe he felt something more profound. He said, "I don't think you're ready." She tells the story of a Connecticut girl gone bad; booze, drugs, etc. "Then I found music and it became my life blood." When Howie said "...you're not ready" I wonder if he meant, ready for success.
From a poignant moment, to a sadly ridiculous one, the next "performer" was the Naked Cowgirl, Sandy Kane, who sung to Nick, "I love Nick he's better than ice cream to lick." Of course, she received three no votes. Offstage Nick asked her, "Do you still love me?" She shouted back "NO." lol Guess sleeping your way to the top doesn't work so much anymore.
Two more clips of acts that didn't get voted through followed the Nick Licker Cowgirl. Satori, who was just strange, and Maya, who was even stranger.
Then came a dancer with more heads than I have personalities. Narcisster danced around the stage, doing acrobatics and exposing different heads, even one between her legs. Ummm... okay, I ain't going there. The only face she didn't expose was her own. Maybe that's why she was voted through.
The show ended with Sam B, who "Took the 'I' outta Sam and just used the first initial of my last name." Okay, he was funny and fun, but I was afraid with him dancin like he was "Barking mad" he was going to have a heart attack.
You'd think if anyone danced like that night after night in clubs, as he claims he does, he'd be thin as a pencil. He told Nick, before he went on that all the girls want to dance with him. When he asks for their number, though, it's a different story. "Some sneak out to the bathroom, others give me a wrong number. Sometimes, though, I get lucky."
Although he was unanimously voted through, Piers qualified his vote with, "You're brilliantly terrible."
Sorry, folks, but New York was a big disappointment for me. Start spreadin' the news.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Blondes Aren't Dumb! Or Are They?
Whilst I'm a blonde, I don't resent "dumb blonde" jokes at all. They're funny. And I'm confident enough with my intelligence, that I can laugh at the jokes. Mensa members were so impressed with my IQ that, at the first meeting I attended, I received a standing ovation. Wait! That might have been a dream. lol
Anyway, the blondes portrayed in jokes aren't real. At least that's what I've always believed. Then, I met Debbie. Debbie's a blonde, but she's not dumb, either. Her sister, however, wellllllll....let's just say she doesn't have both oars in the water.
Until I actually met her, I thought Debbie was making up all the stories about her sister - even after people, who had met her, confirmed that she's a few cards short of a full deck.
The stories are so funny, so unbelievable, that I felt compelled to share them here with you.
When Debbie's sister (whose name escapes me) first moved to our town, Debbie gave her sister directions to her house in the country. Knowing her sister well, she said, "Make sure that you pick out a landmark, when you make the turn, so you'll always remember how to get here."
Surprisingly, her sister found the place without incident.
A couple weeks later Debbie told her to drive out to pick up something. "Do you remember the landmark?" (sister never told Debbie what it was and I guess Debbie felt it was irrelevant)Her sister assured her she did. Debbie waited an hour, then two, and then decided her sister was lost. She called her cell and asked where she was. "I'm back home, because I couldn't find the landmark."
Yeah, she didn't bother calling Debbie when she got lost, instead she went back home. *rolls eyes*
"Are you sure you remembered the landmark?"
"Yeah, duh! Only it wasn't there."
"Huh? Landmarks don't disappear."
"Well, this one did. I remember for sure when I turned down your road the first time, there was a cow standing by the fence." True story!
Another time she bought a great big bag of Kibbles n Bits, at Walmart, for her pooch. The next day she returned to Walmart with her purchase. She walked up to the customer service desk and slammed the bag on the counter.
"Is there something wrong?"
"I'll say there is!" she huffed. "I fed this to my dog and nothing happened."
Confused, the CSR looked at her and asked, "What did you think was going to happen?"
"Are you kidding me? In the commercial, the dog dances. Mine didn't! It's false advertisement and I want my money back." True story!
God, I wish I had been there to see the CSR's face.
One Thanksgiving eve, the sister's husband (me thinks she must be good in bed lol) was baking pumpkin pies. (yeah, he doesn't let her near the stove) He had already gone shopping, but forgot the evaporated milk that the recipe called for.
He gave his wife money and a note that read, "Two, 12 oz. cans of evaporated milk - any brand." He figured he had that pretty well covered. But when she returned home empty handed, he's like, "wtf?"
She glared at him. "You must really think I'm so stupid that I wouldn't ask someone the meaning of evaporated!" (She was in dairy looking for cans of milk when she finally asked someone)
His expression must have been priceless. "Okay, so where's the milk?"
"I went through every can there and they were all full. You just wanted me out of the house," she said, followed by even stronger glares. True Story!
So, even though, in most cases, "dumb blonde" jokes are fiction - somewhere there's a blonde just like Debbie's sister, running around on the loose. You might see her in Walmart, shaking the cans of evaporated milk, or at the customer service desk ranting about false advertisement. For heaven's sake, though, if you have a cow that wanders to the fence, keep em chained there, she just might be someone's landmark.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Avilo Strikes Again at It's Gosu LAN in Virginia
Okay, question...What's more fun than a DC area LAN event? Duh! It's a DC LAN event hosted by It's Gosu.
Ayesee and Redmajejr (listed in alphabetical order) were kind of not on their mark in the humor department at yesterday's LAN, but you have to take into consideration the fact that that Irishman, Murphy, was yanking their chains for the major part of the event. Yep, what could go wrong, went wrong. They had problems with the bandwidth and then xSplit decided to mess with 'em. There was bad audio, there was no audio, and there was interrupted streaming. Despite all the mishaps, it was a fun night.
The people in chat - and I do mean the majority - are fun. And for once I wasn't the only girl. WooHoo! Thanks for hanging out in chat, Foxey.
Luckyfool, who didn't enter this tournament, due to "previous commitments" accused me of acting silly, (should have been sillier than usual) but it's me being the consummate entertainer. If there's no video, Ayesee and Redmaje offer the comic relief like pros, but if there's no audio people can't hear ya being funny. So, I did my best to save the day.
Fortunately, I didn't have go it alone. Chatters, like Rhonlore, Thorfan and Shakemaster, to name a few, were all too willing to help me out and because of them, It's Gosu didn't lose one viewer and even gained some. :D
Before I get into the details of the It's AVILO event, I have to say to anyone who has yet to experience the casting expertise and humor of Ayesee and Redmaje, or isn't familiar with It's Gosu, do yourselves a favor and tune in sometime. I promise you, you'll have a great time. http://www.itsgosu.com/
Okay, so it was a big disappointment that Luckyfool couldn't attend, but he assured me that he's preparing to take Avilo down at the next event. According to him, he's been studying Avilo's games from his MLG loss and the Starcraft league from North America (whose name I shall not mention, because it leaves a bitter taste in my mouth).
OMG! If Luckyfool ever wins v Avilo, I think his system might go into shock and paramedics better be on hand to resuscitate the man.
It did prove to be Avilo's night again. The only gamer, who beat him one game, in a BO3 was Deceive. When Avilo hits the DC LAN events, he becomes a total beast. He took down Cryptic 2-0 and then went on to destroy Anfield, a pretty good Protoss player, 3-0 in a BO5, sans nukes.
Of course, when Avilo's games are cast, my whole body tenses and I'm unable to breathe. Now anyone who knows Avilo, knows that his games can be long at times; therefore any silliness I'm accused of displaying can be blamed on lack of oxygen to my brain. :D
When Avilo played Anfield he came close to losing one game and anyone else might have GGd, but not Avilo. He has a way of turning games around sometimes that simply amazes me. Of course, he probably doesn't think he's ever losing.
The next BO5 was v Revillusion another Terran, who took home first place when Avilo couldn't make one of the DC LANs due to graduation. Revillusion was out for blood, but it was Avilo's win, 3-0.
Viewers sat patiently waiting for the losers bracket to complete their games to see who Avilo would have to play in the finals.
Revillusion v Hex, a zerg, were ftw, but I'm sure Revillusion was determined to win so that he could face Avilo again in the finals. So, he beat Hex and after a short break, it was Revillusion v Avilo, once again.
Unfortunately, Murphy decided it was time to rear his ugly head once more with technical issues and viewers were left without audio during the final TvT BO5. Shakemaster volunteered to cast via chat type, but Jack grabbed hold of him, rendering his brain to finger coordination dysfunctional, and cast typing was left to me. :D
I began with all the intricate details: "There's this Terran building stuff and on the other side of the map is another Terran building stuff and they both wanna kill each other, so they're gonna sneak around and see what's going on in each other's bases with the stuffs they built. Rut roh - one of the Terrans is sending Gouda and Swiss toward the other..." I think Redmaje stopped me at that point. I know, don't quit my day job. LOFL
Needless to say, Avilo remains the Starcraft champ in the DC area with a 3-0 win over Revillusion. I think this is Avilo's 7th straight DC win. Now, if I were one of guys competing, I'd suggest to the other guys that we pool our money and give it to Avilo to stay home. hehe.
It was a long, long day and I have to give credit to all the competitors, and of course, to the casters, who couldn't just leave afterwards, because they still had to break down and pack up all the equipment. LOL! "Break Down" is kind of a funny choice of words there.
As I see it, without the mishaps, It's Gosu is one of the better streams around. If, in between games, they'd pan Cyberground like Ipp does, it would make it more interesting to viewers. The only other thing that could possibly make It's Gosu better is signing Avilo. :D
Anyway, as it stands, Avilo is still the undefeated champion of the DC Starcraft community with Revillusion coming in second and Hex, third. Good Job, y'all. And thanks to all of those, who put this event together and are dedicated to making eSports the biggest thing in NA since baseball...or basketball...maybe tennis - how about, more popular than apple pie?
A great big thanks to:
It's Gosu and their newest sponsor, Steel Series
Lucky Fool for coordinating the event
Torenhire for keeping the brackets up do date
Ayesee and Redmaje for casting
Cyberground Technical Assistance...ummm okay *shrugs and laughs*
To the guys in chat, for keeping it fun
and to my Avilo for making me proud, as usual.
Ayesee and Redmajejr (listed in alphabetical order) were kind of not on their mark in the humor department at yesterday's LAN, but you have to take into consideration the fact that that Irishman, Murphy, was yanking their chains for the major part of the event. Yep, what could go wrong, went wrong. They had problems with the bandwidth and then xSplit decided to mess with 'em. There was bad audio, there was no audio, and there was interrupted streaming. Despite all the mishaps, it was a fun night.
The people in chat - and I do mean the majority - are fun. And for once I wasn't the only girl. WooHoo! Thanks for hanging out in chat, Foxey.
Luckyfool, who didn't enter this tournament, due to "previous commitments" accused me of acting silly, (should have been sillier than usual) but it's me being the consummate entertainer. If there's no video, Ayesee and Redmaje offer the comic relief like pros, but if there's no audio people can't hear ya being funny. So, I did my best to save the day.
Fortunately, I didn't have go it alone. Chatters, like Rhonlore, Thorfan and Shakemaster, to name a few, were all too willing to help me out and because of them, It's Gosu didn't lose one viewer and even gained some. :D
Before I get into the details of the It's AVILO event, I have to say to anyone who has yet to experience the casting expertise and humor of Ayesee and Redmaje, or isn't familiar with It's Gosu, do yourselves a favor and tune in sometime. I promise you, you'll have a great time. http://www.itsgosu.com/
Okay, so it was a big disappointment that Luckyfool couldn't attend, but he assured me that he's preparing to take Avilo down at the next event. According to him, he's been studying Avilo's games from his MLG loss and the Starcraft league from North America (whose name I shall not mention, because it leaves a bitter taste in my mouth).
OMG! If Luckyfool ever wins v Avilo, I think his system might go into shock and paramedics better be on hand to resuscitate the man.
It did prove to be Avilo's night again. The only gamer, who beat him one game, in a BO3 was Deceive. When Avilo hits the DC LAN events, he becomes a total beast. He took down Cryptic 2-0 and then went on to destroy Anfield, a pretty good Protoss player, 3-0 in a BO5, sans nukes.
Of course, when Avilo's games are cast, my whole body tenses and I'm unable to breathe. Now anyone who knows Avilo, knows that his games can be long at times; therefore any silliness I'm accused of displaying can be blamed on lack of oxygen to my brain. :D
When Avilo played Anfield he came close to losing one game and anyone else might have GGd, but not Avilo. He has a way of turning games around sometimes that simply amazes me. Of course, he probably doesn't think he's ever losing.
The next BO5 was v Revillusion another Terran, who took home first place when Avilo couldn't make one of the DC LANs due to graduation. Revillusion was out for blood, but it was Avilo's win, 3-0.
Viewers sat patiently waiting for the losers bracket to complete their games to see who Avilo would have to play in the finals.
Revillusion v Hex, a zerg, were ftw, but I'm sure Revillusion was determined to win so that he could face Avilo again in the finals. So, he beat Hex and after a short break, it was Revillusion v Avilo, once again.
Unfortunately, Murphy decided it was time to rear his ugly head once more with technical issues and viewers were left without audio during the final TvT BO5. Shakemaster volunteered to cast via chat type, but Jack grabbed hold of him, rendering his brain to finger coordination dysfunctional, and cast typing was left to me. :D
I began with all the intricate details: "There's this Terran building stuff and on the other side of the map is another Terran building stuff and they both wanna kill each other, so they're gonna sneak around and see what's going on in each other's bases with the stuffs they built. Rut roh - one of the Terrans is sending Gouda and Swiss toward the other..." I think Redmaje stopped me at that point. I know, don't quit my day job. LOFL
Needless to say, Avilo remains the Starcraft champ in the DC area with a 3-0 win over Revillusion. I think this is Avilo's 7th straight DC win. Now, if I were one of guys competing, I'd suggest to the other guys that we pool our money and give it to Avilo to stay home. hehe.
It was a long, long day and I have to give credit to all the competitors, and of course, to the casters, who couldn't just leave afterwards, because they still had to break down and pack up all the equipment. LOL! "Break Down" is kind of a funny choice of words there.
As I see it, without the mishaps, It's Gosu is one of the better streams around. If, in between games, they'd pan Cyberground like Ipp does, it would make it more interesting to viewers. The only other thing that could possibly make It's Gosu better is signing Avilo. :D
Anyway, as it stands, Avilo is still the undefeated champion of the DC Starcraft community with Revillusion coming in second and Hex, third. Good Job, y'all. And thanks to all of those, who put this event together and are dedicated to making eSports the biggest thing in NA since baseball...or basketball...maybe tennis - how about, more popular than apple pie?
A great big thanks to:
It's Gosu and their newest sponsor, Steel Series
Lucky Fool for coordinating the event
Torenhire for keeping the brackets up do date
Ayesee and Redmaje for casting
Cyberground Technical Assistance...ummm okay *shrugs and laughs*
To the guys in chat, for keeping it fun
and to my Avilo for making me proud, as usual.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
America's Got Talent - New York 2011
When you hear The Big Apple, you instinctively think talent - well I do. It's the heart of the theater. Broadway. Singing. Dancing. Acting. New York has talent.
Before AGT showed us some though, we had to sit through clips of dumb acts again. At least they were only clips.
Joel Podesky? Pumpkin pie eater extraordinaire? AHA! The talent is how fast he eats the pie he hates. Yeah, I'd pay to see that in Vegas. Good grief!
Michael, "The Parrot Wizard," whose parrot wouldn't do anything but play dead. They say never act with kids or animals, guess birds apply as well.
The Boston Typewriter Orchestra? Yeah, well, you couldn't hear them over the crowd, but the three no votes came quickly.
To me those are novelty acts, not talent. My advice for Joel - follow around state fairs. Michael - have parrot under glass. Typewriter guys - switch to keyboards.
Triple Threat, a Broadway act consisting of four people, claimed they sing, dance and act. Maybe in high school plays. *shrugs
Then came Snap Boogie. Some people have easy lives, others don't. Some people go bad and blame their rough lives, others rise above the situation and do what they do best. Snap Boogie, a high school student, whose one brother is already in jail, does street performing to help his mom make ends meet.
He came on stage humble, but when that music started the kid owned the stage and deserved to be voted through with three yes votes.
I was also impressed with Micheal Turco, a magician, who made gorgeous girls appear out of nowhere. I'd imagine that most men would like to know his secret.
The show could have spared me Riley, "One of a small handful of women sword swallowers." But she's got the gag reflex down...okay I'm not even gonna say what just went through my mind.
When Steven Retchless appeared on stage wearing platform heels and skimpy silver shorts, I reacted kind of like the judges did. The expression was somewhat like jaw dropped, wide-eyed disbelief. So, what was he going to do? "I'm a Polefessional." Yep, a rare breed - a male pole dancer. Piers was the first to sound the buzzer, but Sharon gave him a standing O. Actually, he was good, but million dollar, Vegas headliner? Ummm...No!
Two acts blew me away though tonight. The first was Elew, a pianist, who was classically trained, but moved into Rock with "Jimi Hendrix meets Beethoven." He came on stage like a warrior ready for battle - fierce and growling. His performance was, as the judges said, "Genius." When he played the strings on the inside of the piano, Howie stood up in amazement. I just sat and watched, amazed.
The other act and final act of the night was a singer, who had never auditioned anywhere before. Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr. washes cars for a living, but I dare say that after his performance tonight, he won't be scrubbing too many more tires. Actually, when he came on stage laughing and chewing gum, his hair in dreadlocks and his dress, casual sloppy, I wasn't expecting him to belt out a Frank Sinatra song, "I've Got You Under My Skin." His voice is nothing short of spectacular - pure and rich.
When he left the stage the audience was on their feet and he was tearful. "I never thought people would like me like this." Yeah, he didn't even know he had real talent. It was definitely a surprising moment.
Thanks, AGT, for keeping the bad acts at a minimum and letting the good acts shine, as they should.
Before AGT showed us some though, we had to sit through clips of dumb acts again. At least they were only clips.
Joel Podesky? Pumpkin pie eater extraordinaire? AHA! The talent is how fast he eats the pie he hates. Yeah, I'd pay to see that in Vegas. Good grief!
Michael, "The Parrot Wizard," whose parrot wouldn't do anything but play dead. They say never act with kids or animals, guess birds apply as well.
The Boston Typewriter Orchestra? Yeah, well, you couldn't hear them over the crowd, but the three no votes came quickly.
To me those are novelty acts, not talent. My advice for Joel - follow around state fairs. Michael - have parrot under glass. Typewriter guys - switch to keyboards.
Triple Threat, a Broadway act consisting of four people, claimed they sing, dance and act. Maybe in high school plays. *shrugs
Then came Snap Boogie. Some people have easy lives, others don't. Some people go bad and blame their rough lives, others rise above the situation and do what they do best. Snap Boogie, a high school student, whose one brother is already in jail, does street performing to help his mom make ends meet.
He came on stage humble, but when that music started the kid owned the stage and deserved to be voted through with three yes votes.
I was also impressed with Micheal Turco, a magician, who made gorgeous girls appear out of nowhere. I'd imagine that most men would like to know his secret.
The show could have spared me Riley, "One of a small handful of women sword swallowers." But she's got the gag reflex down...okay I'm not even gonna say what just went through my mind.
When Steven Retchless appeared on stage wearing platform heels and skimpy silver shorts, I reacted kind of like the judges did. The expression was somewhat like jaw dropped, wide-eyed disbelief. So, what was he going to do? "I'm a Polefessional." Yep, a rare breed - a male pole dancer. Piers was the first to sound the buzzer, but Sharon gave him a standing O. Actually, he was good, but million dollar, Vegas headliner? Ummm...No!
Two acts blew me away though tonight. The first was Elew, a pianist, who was classically trained, but moved into Rock with "Jimi Hendrix meets Beethoven." He came on stage like a warrior ready for battle - fierce and growling. His performance was, as the judges said, "Genius." When he played the strings on the inside of the piano, Howie stood up in amazement. I just sat and watched, amazed.
The other act and final act of the night was a singer, who had never auditioned anywhere before. Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr. washes cars for a living, but I dare say that after his performance tonight, he won't be scrubbing too many more tires. Actually, when he came on stage laughing and chewing gum, his hair in dreadlocks and his dress, casual sloppy, I wasn't expecting him to belt out a Frank Sinatra song, "I've Got You Under My Skin." His voice is nothing short of spectacular - pure and rich.
When he left the stage the audience was on their feet and he was tearful. "I never thought people would like me like this." Yeah, he didn't even know he had real talent. It was definitely a surprising moment.
Thanks, AGT, for keeping the bad acts at a minimum and letting the good acts shine, as they should.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
America's Got Talent - Atlanta - More Comic Relief?
One of the comments I got from a viewer stated that the show leaves in the rotten acts for comic relief. Sorry, but I thought "comic" referred to something funny. Guess Piers and I are the only ones not laughing.
Really, I didn't think it could get worse than Seattle, but 45 minutes into the show and I didn't see a Vegas worthy, one million dollar act on that stage. It was pathetic. If this is a talent show, show me some damn talent.
Then, at the end, to keep you watching I guess, was the WOW moment. Anna Graceman, an 11 year old from Alaska (well it starts with an A) performed an Alicia Keys number, "If I've Got You," with the soul of a musician, who struggled her whole life for the "big break."
Watching her sing and accompany herself on the piano, emoting feelings that, you'd think, an 11 year old shouldn't have, gave me goosebumps.
Frankly, if it wasn't for her, I'd probably quit the show. Although it's rather like a horrific scene where you want to close your eyes, but can't.
The producers probably think, we'll give the audience one good act and with all the other acts, show America that it really doesn't have talent.
Of course I can see a drag queen like Hershae Chocolatte in Vegas. I, along with Piers, wasn't even going to give him/her a chance. Once she started dancing, she was pretty okay. Unlike Piers, though, I have a sense of humor. lol
We got clips of a jump rope team; Fiddlehead, a bluegrass band; and DJ Face, a 6 year old DJ (guess I didn't get the talent there) who were all voted through.
There was a clip of a unicyclist dressed like I don't know what, (If anyone has a clue let me know) who didn't say a word and didn't even wait to be judged. I mean it kind of makes me think the show should be called "America's Got The Weirdest Talent."
More clips, of people who didn't make it through, showed a Robot named Michael Potts and a yodeler, except he called it hollering. Ummm... yeah.
And you know those bad dancers at parties, who, when they start, you just wanna laugh? There was a Seinfeld episode about this guy, Mr. Shake It Up, only it was about Elaine.
Other acts voted through, who I don't think should have been:
Attack Dance Crew. A group of college boys who were nothing more than a drill team in my opinion. Piers thought the "choreography" was fresh and innovative, but I agree with Howie, they looked like cheerleaders sans the pom poms. Unfortunately, Piers talked Sharon into voting yes. *rolls eyes*
Captain and Maybelle. Yeah, people go for horror. The judges couldn't even watch as Captain swallowed hangers and a sword weighed down with cinder blocks. Whilst I can actually see something like that in Vegas, it was more side show quality to me, but the audience loved it. *more eye rolls*
And finally an OMG! Are you kidding me? moment. Armand and Angelina, who have been married for 10 yrs. and 3 mos. sing and it's like "Making love," said Armand. "Now we get to make love with the audience." Their "Cross-over music" made me wanna cross over for sure.
They took this beautiful song "My Heart Will Go On" from the film Titanic and killed it. Like Nick Cannon said, "This performance is going down faster than the Titanic."
Armand prefaced what they were about to sing by telling the judges his wife has had classical training and he only trained in bars. Her voice made me want to cringe it was so grating and, yeah, he doesn't have a voice at all, but he can play the flute. lol.
Now mind you, they are totally serious about what they do, but Howie thought it was a comedy routine I guess. He said, "It's so ridiculous, it's wonderful." Piers, on the other hand said, "I agree with Howie, it's ridiculous." Sharon said, "It's camp and cheesy." So this couple went through with two yes votes. *Rolls eyes until I get dizzy
Atlasta it's over and it was the longest one hour ever. Which reminds me, it's the longest day of the year, too. Yep, just looked outside and at 9 p.m. central, it's still light out. :)
Really, I didn't think it could get worse than Seattle, but 45 minutes into the show and I didn't see a Vegas worthy, one million dollar act on that stage. It was pathetic. If this is a talent show, show me some damn talent.
Then, at the end, to keep you watching I guess, was the WOW moment. Anna Graceman, an 11 year old from Alaska (well it starts with an A) performed an Alicia Keys number, "If I've Got You," with the soul of a musician, who struggled her whole life for the "big break."
Watching her sing and accompany herself on the piano, emoting feelings that, you'd think, an 11 year old shouldn't have, gave me goosebumps.
Frankly, if it wasn't for her, I'd probably quit the show. Although it's rather like a horrific scene where you want to close your eyes, but can't.
The producers probably think, we'll give the audience one good act and with all the other acts, show America that it really doesn't have talent.
Of course I can see a drag queen like Hershae Chocolatte in Vegas. I, along with Piers, wasn't even going to give him/her a chance. Once she started dancing, she was pretty okay. Unlike Piers, though, I have a sense of humor. lol
We got clips of a jump rope team; Fiddlehead, a bluegrass band; and DJ Face, a 6 year old DJ (guess I didn't get the talent there) who were all voted through.
There was a clip of a unicyclist dressed like I don't know what, (If anyone has a clue let me know) who didn't say a word and didn't even wait to be judged. I mean it kind of makes me think the show should be called "America's Got The Weirdest Talent."
More clips, of people who didn't make it through, showed a Robot named Michael Potts and a yodeler, except he called it hollering. Ummm... yeah.
And you know those bad dancers at parties, who, when they start, you just wanna laugh? There was a Seinfeld episode about this guy, Mr. Shake It Up, only it was about Elaine.
Other acts voted through, who I don't think should have been:
Attack Dance Crew. A group of college boys who were nothing more than a drill team in my opinion. Piers thought the "choreography" was fresh and innovative, but I agree with Howie, they looked like cheerleaders sans the pom poms. Unfortunately, Piers talked Sharon into voting yes. *rolls eyes*
Captain and Maybelle. Yeah, people go for horror. The judges couldn't even watch as Captain swallowed hangers and a sword weighed down with cinder blocks. Whilst I can actually see something like that in Vegas, it was more side show quality to me, but the audience loved it. *more eye rolls*
And finally an OMG! Are you kidding me? moment. Armand and Angelina, who have been married for 10 yrs. and 3 mos. sing and it's like "Making love," said Armand. "Now we get to make love with the audience." Their "Cross-over music" made me wanna cross over for sure.
They took this beautiful song "My Heart Will Go On" from the film Titanic and killed it. Like Nick Cannon said, "This performance is going down faster than the Titanic."
Armand prefaced what they were about to sing by telling the judges his wife has had classical training and he only trained in bars. Her voice made me want to cringe it was so grating and, yeah, he doesn't have a voice at all, but he can play the flute. lol.
Now mind you, they are totally serious about what they do, but Howie thought it was a comedy routine I guess. He said, "It's so ridiculous, it's wonderful." Piers, on the other hand said, "I agree with Howie, it's ridiculous." Sharon said, "It's camp and cheesy." So this couple went through with two yes votes. *Rolls eyes until I get dizzy
Atlasta it's over and it was the longest one hour ever. Which reminds me, it's the longest day of the year, too. Yep, just looked outside and at 9 p.m. central, it's still light out. :)
Thursday, June 16, 2011
VTGaming's Surprise Announcement
It was a surprise to me when someone directed me to a thread in the Team Liquid forums that announced VT Reign.
There were already 30 pages and I read every single one of them. Most were to congratulate VTGaming. But there were others asking what's going to happen to the old team? Yeah, that was my initial response.
Granted the "old" VT team didn't do well at MLG, but putting together a new team doesn't happen overnight - especially when you're setting up a pro house in California. So, this has been in the works for a while.
A few current VT members wrote their thoughts in the thread and received responses like, "You sound bitter." Ummm....excuse me, but can you blame them? Not sure when the old members were told about the new team and pro house, but what a frickin slap in the face. "Hey, guys VT is getting a pro house...only we're getting a new team, too." That's like telling these guys that worked long and hard for VT that they're just not good enough.
Players were assured that VT would continue to exist. Call me cynical, but I understand all too well how business works and I know the corporate mentality. The underlying message is, if you want to find a new team (hint hint) it's okay with us, (because sooner or later we're gonna get rid of all of you) but rest assured you will all still be a part of VTGaming.(Do you think they bought it?)
Sponsorship for a relatively new concept, such as e-sports, is hard to come by. Yes, Starcraft is growing and is more visible to the general public, but one thing is for certain - no one is going to back a losing team. And why, if VT is recruiting top names for their "new" team, would they support the old VT players?
I've seen things like this happen before during reorganizations of a company. Employees sense the doom, but CEOs keep telling them, "Don't worry, we're not getting rid of you." And then the ax is dropped on the first person. Again, the head of the corporation reassures everyone else that they're jobs are secure. But when the next person is axed, you gotta start wondering if someone isn't trying to pull the wool over your eyes.
It's corporate double talk to avoid dissension amongst employees. After all, they don't want everyone walking, before the company gets a routine going. Oh well, whatever!
Intuition and common sense tells me that the old VT team will fade away when Reign starts to shine; unless VT has funds to spare, which is highly unlikely. VT's funds and attention will be devoted to the new team so, if the players of the old team think "Everything is going to stay the same" I think they're in for a rude awaking.
Of course, I hope I'm just being overly cynical, but I think not.
And that's life without the fantasies.
There were already 30 pages and I read every single one of them. Most were to congratulate VTGaming. But there were others asking what's going to happen to the old team? Yeah, that was my initial response.
Granted the "old" VT team didn't do well at MLG, but putting together a new team doesn't happen overnight - especially when you're setting up a pro house in California. So, this has been in the works for a while.
A few current VT members wrote their thoughts in the thread and received responses like, "You sound bitter." Ummm....excuse me, but can you blame them? Not sure when the old members were told about the new team and pro house, but what a frickin slap in the face. "Hey, guys VT is getting a pro house...only we're getting a new team, too." That's like telling these guys that worked long and hard for VT that they're just not good enough.
Players were assured that VT would continue to exist. Call me cynical, but I understand all too well how business works and I know the corporate mentality. The underlying message is, if you want to find a new team (hint hint) it's okay with us, (because sooner or later we're gonna get rid of all of you) but rest assured you will all still be a part of VTGaming.(Do you think they bought it?)
Sponsorship for a relatively new concept, such as e-sports, is hard to come by. Yes, Starcraft is growing and is more visible to the general public, but one thing is for certain - no one is going to back a losing team. And why, if VT is recruiting top names for their "new" team, would they support the old VT players?
I've seen things like this happen before during reorganizations of a company. Employees sense the doom, but CEOs keep telling them, "Don't worry, we're not getting rid of you." And then the ax is dropped on the first person. Again, the head of the corporation reassures everyone else that they're jobs are secure. But when the next person is axed, you gotta start wondering if someone isn't trying to pull the wool over your eyes.
It's corporate double talk to avoid dissension amongst employees. After all, they don't want everyone walking, before the company gets a routine going. Oh well, whatever!
Intuition and common sense tells me that the old VT team will fade away when Reign starts to shine; unless VT has funds to spare, which is highly unlikely. VT's funds and attention will be devoted to the new team so, if the players of the old team think "Everything is going to stay the same" I think they're in for a rude awaking.
Of course, I hope I'm just being overly cynical, but I think not.
And that's life without the fantasies.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
America's Got Talent - Seattle - The Second Time Around
Guess producers thought Seattle had talent; unfortunately, the second time around was sadly pathetic.
On June 7, Seattle auditions brought performers like Melissa Villasenor, an extremely talented and funny impressionist/comic. Tumblers, from Kenya, called Zuma Zuma. The Electrolytes, a dance group. Poplyfe, a group of singing teens, whose lead vocalist - the only girl in the group - told Piers, "If they don't go, I don't go."
There was also an aerialist act, Daring James Duo. But I would have liked to have seen more of a little 8 year old, named Sadie, who could scat with the best. Alas! That was just a clip.
So, AGT thinking Seattle has talent, returned and whilst I think Piers lacks a sense of humor and is worse than Len Goodman, I was almost prepared to believe he's the only judge with a sense of talent.
Almost, that is, until he voted in a chihuahua that plays pool. It wasn't even an act, it was more like a trick. Big deal, a little doggie knocks balls into pockets. Now, if he had been using a cue stick, I might have voted the pooch in too.
The list of no talent folks in Seattle was endless and the show was a waste of time in my opinion.
Brian Jackson, a dude that blows up hot water bottles? Puuuleeeeze. His intention was to top the world record - and even after he was voted off with a miserable fail, he continued back stage. He finally got one to burst a half hour into the show.
Other names that made me cringe were: Buffo, the comedian; Kimo, who did, "Madonna - 20 shows in 20." Was that seconds? Robo the Robot, performed dumb jokes, and the first half hour of the show was a disaster. I think I'm quoting correctly when the emcee, Nick Cannon, said, "Seattle auditions are like the weather - Terrible."
There were clips of some drummer, whose name escapes me; Debra Henson, whose act escapes me; Marcos, a singer, whose mom told off Piers better than the dude to sing.
Alaska, not the state, but an "Interpretive Freestyle Dancer" was just weird.
LuckyTaz commented on my last AGT blog post that they leave in these acts as comic relief. Guess what? They're not funny. Especially when you only get clips of some otherwise talented acts like, Seth, the acrobatic magician; or a pole dancer named Soelil; and a group of funny men singers, whose name was Illumini something or other.
The BGPs, a band, who performed Bennie and the Jets, were good if all they want to do are gigs at weddings, small clubs, etc. Otherwise, they're going to have to be more original. The best part of their act was when their precious kids ran out on stage to be with their daddies. That was an awwwwwww moment.
Piers was enthralled with Marylee, a singer/song writer, who dedicates her music to "dead" people? Really, at first I thought she said deaf people. When she dedicated the number to Piers, I knew she said "dead" and it wasn't too far-fetched. She even put together a little video to go with her tune. Piers was the only judge who voted her in. Come to think of it, I'm pretty sure that's the first time he smiled all night too.
He didn't even snicker when A Guinness World Record comedian by the name of, Geechy Guy, did his - what I thought was pretty clever - original one-liners.
The only memorable act on tonight's show for me was a group of boys, 8, 9 and 10, named "The Art of Teckniques" They weren't just good for youngsters, they were skilled and obviously love every minute of their hip hop style dancing.
If I remember correctly, the reason I stopped watching America's Got Talent before, was because of shows like tonight's.
I am curious, though, what others think of the show's current format. So, please, take the time and check your choice. If enough people agree with me, I might send it on to the producers of the show.
On June 7, Seattle auditions brought performers like Melissa Villasenor, an extremely talented and funny impressionist/comic. Tumblers, from Kenya, called Zuma Zuma. The Electrolytes, a dance group. Poplyfe, a group of singing teens, whose lead vocalist - the only girl in the group - told Piers, "If they don't go, I don't go."
There was also an aerialist act, Daring James Duo. But I would have liked to have seen more of a little 8 year old, named Sadie, who could scat with the best. Alas! That was just a clip.
So, AGT thinking Seattle has talent, returned and whilst I think Piers lacks a sense of humor and is worse than Len Goodman, I was almost prepared to believe he's the only judge with a sense of talent.
Almost, that is, until he voted in a chihuahua that plays pool. It wasn't even an act, it was more like a trick. Big deal, a little doggie knocks balls into pockets. Now, if he had been using a cue stick, I might have voted the pooch in too.
The list of no talent folks in Seattle was endless and the show was a waste of time in my opinion.
Brian Jackson, a dude that blows up hot water bottles? Puuuleeeeze. His intention was to top the world record - and even after he was voted off with a miserable fail, he continued back stage. He finally got one to burst a half hour into the show.
Other names that made me cringe were: Buffo, the comedian; Kimo, who did, "Madonna - 20 shows in 20." Was that seconds? Robo the Robot, performed dumb jokes, and the first half hour of the show was a disaster. I think I'm quoting correctly when the emcee, Nick Cannon, said, "Seattle auditions are like the weather - Terrible."
There were clips of some drummer, whose name escapes me; Debra Henson, whose act escapes me; Marcos, a singer, whose mom told off Piers better than the dude to sing.
Alaska, not the state, but an "Interpretive Freestyle Dancer" was just weird.
LuckyTaz commented on my last AGT blog post that they leave in these acts as comic relief. Guess what? They're not funny. Especially when you only get clips of some otherwise talented acts like, Seth, the acrobatic magician; or a pole dancer named Soelil; and a group of funny men singers, whose name was Illumini something or other.
The BGPs, a band, who performed Bennie and the Jets, were good if all they want to do are gigs at weddings, small clubs, etc. Otherwise, they're going to have to be more original. The best part of their act was when their precious kids ran out on stage to be with their daddies. That was an awwwwwww moment.
Piers was enthralled with Marylee, a singer/song writer, who dedicates her music to "dead" people? Really, at first I thought she said deaf people. When she dedicated the number to Piers, I knew she said "dead" and it wasn't too far-fetched. She even put together a little video to go with her tune. Piers was the only judge who voted her in. Come to think of it, I'm pretty sure that's the first time he smiled all night too.
He didn't even snicker when A Guinness World Record comedian by the name of, Geechy Guy, did his - what I thought was pretty clever - original one-liners.
The only memorable act on tonight's show for me was a group of boys, 8, 9 and 10, named "The Art of Teckniques" They weren't just good for youngsters, they were skilled and obviously love every minute of their hip hop style dancing.
If I remember correctly, the reason I stopped watching America's Got Talent before, was because of shows like tonight's.
I am curious, though, what others think of the show's current format. So, please, take the time and check your choice. If enough people agree with me, I might send it on to the producers of the show.
Monday, June 13, 2011
The Tony Awards Show Turns 65 and...
"Theater is not just for gays anymore." Standing O for Neil Patrick Harris, who opened the show with that great number. He's so frickin talented. But when you do theater you have to be. You can't say "Cut" or "Let me redo that scene."
Brooke Shields must be wishing about now that she could have called cut - oh wait, she did. How embarrassing. Don't think any stage director is going to be auditioning her very soon.
Harris, in his opening number went into the audience for "rehearsed" spontaneity and Brooke was one of the victims he addressed. After three takes, she finally picked up the card and sang her couple lines. *Rolls eyes*
I was a drama major, not only because I love the theater, but because I'm a born drama queen and I started at the age of three in the performing arts so, it was only natural. One thing I know is there are at times pages of monologue to "memorize," Brooke. Pages! And trust me, when you're in a scene with a fellow actor, they don't like it when you forget your lines and have to cover for you. I think Harris handled it well. He hardly looked shaken. I bet her bit was what made the show run three minutes over.
Theater is dear to my heart, and when I was in Chicago I made the rounds with the rest of the cattle. I supplemented my income - between shows (90% of actors are between shows lol) - doing commercials and picking up extra bits in movies. When I wasn't on stage, I did everything from wardrobe to stage managing to production coordinator. Why? Because there's nothing more exhilarating than the theater. Or as the guy who picks up elephant crap at the circus once said, "The circus is in my blood."
Unfortunately, life sometimes has different plans for us. *sighs* But enough about me.
Tonight's production of the Tony's, like all 64 that preceded it, was handled like no other award shows. It didn't run 30 minutes over, only three - and Harris was still able to get in the rap at the end. Utter professionalism.
What amazed me was the number of well known TV and movie stars doing theater now, who have never done it before. Hey, leave us alone, you already made a name for yourselves. lol I'm certainly not saying movie stars can't act - Ellen Barkin won best female in a featured roll for The Normal Heart. But her acceptance speech was worthy of another Tony.
The Musical that walked away with the most Tony awards was "The Book of Mormon." I heard the writers talking about it on some late night show and it sounded pretty funny - but I still don't get the reference to South Park. *shrugs*
When the nominations for best musical were announced, Chris Rock, who is on Broadway starring in "The Mother*** in the Hat" was the presenter. OMG! That guy is so funny. "This is like taking a whore out for dinner, cuz we know who's gonna win." Funny, too, was Trey Parker, who accepted the award and thanked the now deceased founder of the Mormon religion for co-writing the script.
Okay, so I didn't get to see an hour of the awards, because it was the season finale of Army Wives - I hate when networks do that to me. grrrrrrr. I attempted to flip channels during commercials, but both stations had commercials running. I hate when sponsors do that to me. grrrrrr.
What I was able to catch was Francis MacDormand, who won best lead female actor, for her roll in Good People. I was impressed withwhomever whoever designed her wardrobe. Let me see, Levi? Yeah, I get it. The blue denim jacket worn over a black and red striped granny dress, must have been a statement of some sort. Hmmm? No, sorry, I don't get it.
Best lead male actor in a play went to Mark Rylance for his role in "Jerusalem."
Leading male actor in a musical, for his role in "Catch Me If You Can" went to an actor named Butz. Which reminds me of a funny story...okay, never mind.
Sutton Foster won leading female in a musical for "Anything Goes," which also won in the category of Best Musical Revival. The only other nominee was "How to Succeed in Business."
It's amazing to me how these actors can dance up a storm and still have air in their lungs to belt out that final note of the song like Sutton did. Just, wow!
Oh, I got to hear the resonnating voice of James Earl Jones, who along with Vanessa Redgrave announced "Moments in Theater." I'm pretty sure they're both staring in "Driving Miss Daisy." I'd love to see that.
Best Play was War Horse. I have no idea what that's about.
I got to see Robin Williams in a long grey beard, making a presentation. And also Joel Grey, who has been in theater for six decades. You might be more familiar with his daughter Jennifer Grey, who was the dancing sensation in "Dirty Dancing" or for her Mirror Ball win on Dancing with the Stars. Also, caught a glimpse of a very sexy, very beautiful Christy Brinkley, who is ummmm.... 57 frickin years old????? Oh, and Priscilla - Queen of the Desert, was a great production number with "It's Raining Men, Hallelujah."
Frankly, I regret having changed over to Army Wives for an hour and missing any of the awards show. :(
Oh well, there's always next year.
Brooke Shields must be wishing about now that she could have called cut - oh wait, she did. How embarrassing. Don't think any stage director is going to be auditioning her very soon.
Harris, in his opening number went into the audience for "rehearsed" spontaneity and Brooke was one of the victims he addressed. After three takes, she finally picked up the card and sang her couple lines. *Rolls eyes*
I was a drama major, not only because I love the theater, but because I'm a born drama queen and I started at the age of three in the performing arts so, it was only natural. One thing I know is there are at times pages of monologue to "memorize," Brooke. Pages! And trust me, when you're in a scene with a fellow actor, they don't like it when you forget your lines and have to cover for you. I think Harris handled it well. He hardly looked shaken. I bet her bit was what made the show run three minutes over.
Theater is dear to my heart, and when I was in Chicago I made the rounds with the rest of the cattle. I supplemented my income - between shows (90% of actors are between shows lol) - doing commercials and picking up extra bits in movies. When I wasn't on stage, I did everything from wardrobe to stage managing to production coordinator. Why? Because there's nothing more exhilarating than the theater. Or as the guy who picks up elephant crap at the circus once said, "The circus is in my blood."
Unfortunately, life sometimes has different plans for us. *sighs* But enough about me.
Tonight's production of the Tony's, like all 64 that preceded it, was handled like no other award shows. It didn't run 30 minutes over, only three - and Harris was still able to get in the rap at the end. Utter professionalism.
What amazed me was the number of well known TV and movie stars doing theater now, who have never done it before. Hey, leave us alone, you already made a name for yourselves. lol I'm certainly not saying movie stars can't act - Ellen Barkin won best female in a featured roll for The Normal Heart. But her acceptance speech was worthy of another Tony.
The Musical that walked away with the most Tony awards was "The Book of Mormon." I heard the writers talking about it on some late night show and it sounded pretty funny - but I still don't get the reference to South Park. *shrugs*
When the nominations for best musical were announced, Chris Rock, who is on Broadway starring in "The Mother*** in the Hat" was the presenter. OMG! That guy is so funny. "This is like taking a whore out for dinner, cuz we know who's gonna win." Funny, too, was Trey Parker, who accepted the award and thanked the now deceased founder of the Mormon religion for co-writing the script.
Okay, so I didn't get to see an hour of the awards, because it was the season finale of Army Wives - I hate when networks do that to me. grrrrrrr. I attempted to flip channels during commercials, but both stations had commercials running. I hate when sponsors do that to me. grrrrrr.
What I was able to catch was Francis MacDormand, who won best lead female actor, for her roll in Good People. I was impressed with
Best lead male actor in a play went to Mark Rylance for his role in "Jerusalem."
Leading male actor in a musical, for his role in "Catch Me If You Can" went to an actor named Butz. Which reminds me of a funny story...okay, never mind.
Sutton Foster won leading female in a musical for "Anything Goes," which also won in the category of Best Musical Revival. The only other nominee was "How to Succeed in Business."
It's amazing to me how these actors can dance up a storm and still have air in their lungs to belt out that final note of the song like Sutton did. Just, wow!
Oh, I got to hear the resonnating voice of James Earl Jones, who along with Vanessa Redgrave announced "Moments in Theater." I'm pretty sure they're both staring in "Driving Miss Daisy." I'd love to see that.
Best Play was War Horse. I have no idea what that's about.
I got to see Robin Williams in a long grey beard, making a presentation. And also Joel Grey, who has been in theater for six decades. You might be more familiar with his daughter Jennifer Grey, who was the dancing sensation in "Dirty Dancing" or for her Mirror Ball win on Dancing with the Stars. Also, caught a glimpse of a very sexy, very beautiful Christy Brinkley, who is ummmm.... 57 frickin years old????? Oh, and Priscilla - Queen of the Desert, was a great production number with "It's Raining Men, Hallelujah."
Frankly, I regret having changed over to Army Wives for an hour and missing any of the awards show. :(
Oh well, there's always next year.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Army Wives - The Disbanding of the 23rd Airborne
Wait, did I read right? At the end of the show there was a flash of an announcement assuring viewers that Army Wives would return the Winter of ....2012? We're still in 2011, right? Or did I sleep through a year and a half? Surely, I misread.
As I watched tonight's show I actually don't remember seeing that many episodes to begin with. Now it was the season finale and Fort Marshall was closing down. Naturally, my first thought is that the show wasn't the season finale, but the end - period.
Who knows where they'll go from here. And what is Roxy going to do for business with the 23rd disbanding? I mean Trevor finally accepted the fact that Witt was the best man to construct the truck stop, but will there still be trucks to stop? And omg, she'll be losing money at the Hump Bar, too.
I always liked Trevor so, when he was being unreasonable and down right mean, I was disappointed. Knowing that he's still the nice guy he always was - even if Finn did overhear him mention that Witt was Finn's biological dad - restored my faith in mankind. (...yeah, that was a bit over the top).
General Holden, after having been put through the ringer, was absolved of the drunken driving charges, which Claudia Joy wanted to fight. "We should sue them for defamation." She's a lawyer, so she should know. But the wise commander said, "Any effort to fight this will only make it [the story] bigger."
Wow! Those are the exact same words Avilo said to me when I suggested a law suit against a newly formed league in North America, who stole their name from the North American Soccer League. :D Guess, the General and Avilo are pretty wise men.
Yeah, but like Holden said, "What does a division commander do when he no longer has a division to command?" Claudia Joy simply replied, "Dance." Which isn't too silly, seeing as they were at a Celebration Ball.
Denise, who wanted Tanya to "Start living again," gave her a letter that Jeremy had written before he was killed. And despite the fact that she didn't want to live without him, in the end, she visited his grave, where she took off the make-shift engagement ring, and went to the ball. Yes, a soldier asked her to dance and she did, with a smile.
Pamela and her partner got their jobs back after being suspended from duty because of the Holden incident - and, who woulda thunk it - Chase was offered a job in California.
That leaves us with the Burton's and their adopted - and a bit troubled - son, David. So far he's rejected Joan, probably because the women in his life have all been losers. Dr. Burton, psychologist extraordinaire, finds the perfect analogy to bring David around. (Actually, the writers of the program put words in his mouth, but y'all know that hehe)
"Life is a book and this is just one chapter." Yeah, you wouldn't wanna keep reading the same chapter over and over again. duh. So, the kid has a nightmare and Joan goes to his room to comfort him. After he's calmed, she starts to leave, only David - realizing that this is a new chapter of his book - says, "Mom, can you stay with me until I fall asleep?" And they live happily ever after.
Actually, it was a pretty sorry ending for the season finale.
Roxy, and Trevor, who was accepted into Officer's Training School, are gonna be stuck in a ghost town.
General Holden will be reassigned to another unit - or something.
Pamela is going with Chase to California.
Denise, whom I never realized before is so much taller than her hubby, will go with him to Italy.
And the Burtons - hmmmm? They'll live happily ever after, but I don't know where.
2012? Winter? Isn't that when the world is suppose to end - again?
As I watched tonight's show I actually don't remember seeing that many episodes to begin with. Now it was the season finale and Fort Marshall was closing down. Naturally, my first thought is that the show wasn't the season finale, but the end - period.
Who knows where they'll go from here. And what is Roxy going to do for business with the 23rd disbanding? I mean Trevor finally accepted the fact that Witt was the best man to construct the truck stop, but will there still be trucks to stop? And omg, she'll be losing money at the Hump Bar, too.
I always liked Trevor so, when he was being unreasonable and down right mean, I was disappointed. Knowing that he's still the nice guy he always was - even if Finn did overhear him mention that Witt was Finn's biological dad - restored my faith in mankind. (...yeah, that was a bit over the top).
General Holden, after having been put through the ringer, was absolved of the drunken driving charges, which Claudia Joy wanted to fight. "We should sue them for defamation." She's a lawyer, so she should know. But the wise commander said, "Any effort to fight this will only make it [the story] bigger."
Wow! Those are the exact same words Avilo said to me when I suggested a law suit against a newly formed league in North America, who stole their name from the North American Soccer League. :D Guess, the General and Avilo are pretty wise men.
Yeah, but like Holden said, "What does a division commander do when he no longer has a division to command?" Claudia Joy simply replied, "Dance." Which isn't too silly, seeing as they were at a Celebration Ball.
Denise, who wanted Tanya to "Start living again," gave her a letter that Jeremy had written before he was killed. And despite the fact that she didn't want to live without him, in the end, she visited his grave, where she took off the make-shift engagement ring, and went to the ball. Yes, a soldier asked her to dance and she did, with a smile.
Pamela and her partner got their jobs back after being suspended from duty because of the Holden incident - and, who woulda thunk it - Chase was offered a job in California.
That leaves us with the Burton's and their adopted - and a bit troubled - son, David. So far he's rejected Joan, probably because the women in his life have all been losers. Dr. Burton, psychologist extraordinaire, finds the perfect analogy to bring David around. (Actually, the writers of the program put words in his mouth, but y'all know that hehe)
"Life is a book and this is just one chapter." Yeah, you wouldn't wanna keep reading the same chapter over and over again. duh. So, the kid has a nightmare and Joan goes to his room to comfort him. After he's calmed, she starts to leave, only David - realizing that this is a new chapter of his book - says, "Mom, can you stay with me until I fall asleep?" And they live happily ever after.
Actually, it was a pretty sorry ending for the season finale.
Roxy, and Trevor, who was accepted into Officer's Training School, are gonna be stuck in a ghost town.
General Holden will be reassigned to another unit - or something.
Pamela is going with Chase to California.
Denise, whom I never realized before is so much taller than her hubby, will go with him to Italy.
And the Burtons - hmmmm? They'll live happily ever after, but I don't know where.
2012? Winter? Isn't that when the world is suppose to end - again?
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Starcraft Groupies
If you're a celebrity, in any genre, you're bound to have groupies. Perhaps, the term is more applicable for fans of rock bands; however, as Starcraft becomes ever more visible to the public, it only stands to reason that the players will get their fair share of adoring fans.
First, what's the difference between a groupie and a fan?
According to Wiki, a groupie is a person who seeks emotional and sexual intimacy with a celebrity. Female groupies in particular have a long-standing reputation of being "available" to celebrities.
Are they akin to whores? I guess it depends on your definition of the word, but groupies don't get paid for their services. Their only reward is to hang around with the stars, who basically use them as surrogate girlfriends.
A devoted fan admires the work of a celebrity and might start a club, but they don't dedicate their whole lives to a celebrity. They may daydream of one day getting up close and personal, but it's just that - a daydream.
Could a groupie become a stalker? Well that's a scary thought; however, when you're a Starcraft player, who is most probably a very young and naive nerd, and haven't had much experience with women - maybe none - getting attention from a groupie could be thrilling, irrespective of the consequences.
A popular player recently introduced his "girlfriend" to the SC community. The forums were a buzz with mostly posts about how hot she is and how lucky this player is to have landed such a beauty. Again, these are probably young men who, like a lot of men, can't think past their dicks.
Granted, before she spoke in the interview, I thought she was extremely pretty. Unfortunately, she conducted herself like an airhead. - giggle giggle. But then young, horny boys don't look past the surface; they don't think, they just feel, so substance is irrelevant to them.
Prior to this, the same girl was video-taped with another Starcraft player - her boyfriend at the time and not well-known in the community. So, I have to wonder if she just used this other kid to get her foot in the door. And if I'm wondering that, wouldn't her new "boyfriend" wonder how long he'll last? When someone more attractive, more well-known comes along, will she dump him?
At MLG-Dallas, there were girls running around asking popular players to autograph their boobs. Why? Does this mean they'll never again bathe? Or did the signer use indelible ink?
At MLG-Columbus, a poster wrote of his experience with his "whore of a girlfriend" during the event. Seems she would disappear to a bar where more popular players were hanging out and make out with them. Yeah, not one, but two, according to him. Of course she denied it and all was well, until the next night. I think the dude finally saw the light and broke up with her.
I guess I'm baffled by what these girls get out of being a groupie. Was there ever a groupie that was taken seriously? Did the groupie ever end up marrying the celebrity? Are the groupies at these Starcraft "after parties" the kind of girls you would take home to mother? I guess it's all possible, but certainly not the norm.
The Starcraft groupies I've read about are mostly empty-headed bimbos; most of whom are being used. What's disturbing to me is they don't seem to care. Maybe I can't relate. I was never gaga over some celebrity and I certainly couldn't fathom throwing myself at one. Then, again, I've always been the "hard to get" type.
Some of these boys/men are easy prey. They're naive, they're gullible, and no doubt - like the kid at MLG-Columbus - they will end up getting their hearts broken. But worse, it will leave a bad taste in their mouths and a lower opinion of women in general.
It's flattering to be idolized, but I think I'd rather have an adoring fan than a groupie. Oh, wait! I'm not a Starcraft male. lol
First, what's the difference between a groupie and a fan?
According to Wiki, a groupie is a person who seeks emotional and sexual intimacy with a celebrity. Female groupies in particular have a long-standing reputation of being "available" to celebrities.
Are they akin to whores? I guess it depends on your definition of the word, but groupies don't get paid for their services. Their only reward is to hang around with the stars, who basically use them as surrogate girlfriends.
A devoted fan admires the work of a celebrity and might start a club, but they don't dedicate their whole lives to a celebrity. They may daydream of one day getting up close and personal, but it's just that - a daydream.
Could a groupie become a stalker? Well that's a scary thought; however, when you're a Starcraft player, who is most probably a very young and naive nerd, and haven't had much experience with women - maybe none - getting attention from a groupie could be thrilling, irrespective of the consequences.
A popular player recently introduced his "girlfriend" to the SC community. The forums were a buzz with mostly posts about how hot she is and how lucky this player is to have landed such a beauty. Again, these are probably young men who, like a lot of men, can't think past their dicks.
Granted, before she spoke in the interview, I thought she was extremely pretty. Unfortunately, she conducted herself like an airhead. - giggle giggle. But then young, horny boys don't look past the surface; they don't think, they just feel, so substance is irrelevant to them.
Prior to this, the same girl was video-taped with another Starcraft player - her boyfriend at the time and not well-known in the community. So, I have to wonder if she just used this other kid to get her foot in the door. And if I'm wondering that, wouldn't her new "boyfriend" wonder how long he'll last? When someone more attractive, more well-known comes along, will she dump him?
At MLG-Dallas, there were girls running around asking popular players to autograph their boobs. Why? Does this mean they'll never again bathe? Or did the signer use indelible ink?
At MLG-Columbus, a poster wrote of his experience with his "whore of a girlfriend" during the event. Seems she would disappear to a bar where more popular players were hanging out and make out with them. Yeah, not one, but two, according to him. Of course she denied it and all was well, until the next night. I think the dude finally saw the light and broke up with her.
I guess I'm baffled by what these girls get out of being a groupie. Was there ever a groupie that was taken seriously? Did the groupie ever end up marrying the celebrity? Are the groupies at these Starcraft "after parties" the kind of girls you would take home to mother? I guess it's all possible, but certainly not the norm.
The Starcraft groupies I've read about are mostly empty-headed bimbos; most of whom are being used. What's disturbing to me is they don't seem to care. Maybe I can't relate. I was never gaga over some celebrity and I certainly couldn't fathom throwing myself at one. Then, again, I've always been the "hard to get" type.
Some of these boys/men are easy prey. They're naive, they're gullible, and no doubt - like the kid at MLG-Columbus - they will end up getting their hearts broken. But worse, it will leave a bad taste in their mouths and a lower opinion of women in general.
It's flattering to be idolized, but I think I'd rather have an adoring fan than a groupie. Oh, wait! I'm not a Starcraft male. lol
America's Got Talent? Not So Much
This is one show, where I think the judges really earn their money. Thankfully, the editing department spares the viewers from most of the dumb asses, who think they have talent. I do wonder what drugs they were on when they let some of these people fill airtime. I mean puuuuuleeeeeeze...
Jay the Cyberspace Tron Guy? A Howie impersonator that even Howie couldn't relate to? An Asian James Brown? And that was just in Houston. We still had an hour of Minneapolis to sit through.
Whilst Piers was snowed in, Howie and Sharon were letting every crazy act through. Thank God he returned to offer true and reasonable critiques. Okay, Piers is the Len Goodman of AGT, but at least he doesn't think everyone has talent.
After 18 hours to get from New York to Minneapolis, he wasn't too happy, and needless to say, Piers is worse than Scrooge, when he is in a good mood. He didn't like anyone and in most cases I had to agree with him.
The Funny Little People, that Sharon and Howie voted to go to Vegas, belong at Disneyland, but Piers was downright mean and insulting. Then, Howie thought it would be funny to have these little elf-like creatures harass Piers backstage and even in his dressing room. If Piers had a gun, I think he might have used it - on Howie.
And excuse me, but when is body piercing considered a talent? Frankly, after seeing these acts, I'd like to get a hold of a gun and go on a rampage in the editing department.
In all fairness, there were some highlights. In Houston there was a knife throwing act that was pretty intense and a juggler, who juggled in a unique way - using lighting effects. The piece d resistance was a 19 year old, extremely effeminate singer, who accompanied himself on piano. When he sashayed onto the stage, I immediately felt badly for him, thinking he certainly doesn't have any talent - and I have no doubt, by the looks on the judges faces, that they thought the same. He was personable and funny, but when Daniel belted out a GaGa song, I was blown away. I mean, WOW! I can't wait to see what he'll bring to Vegas.
Of course, there's a plethora of vocalists throughout the season, who are good to great; however, when you bring to the show an act that keeps people on the edge of their seats - like acrobatics performed on a balancing beam - you have my undivided attention. I was spellbound with the risk's this woman took. It was definitely different and an act I'd think would draw crowds in Vegas.
Professor Splash, however, even with the risk factor...I mean how far can you go? His goal is to set a world record on AGT. Tonight he just dove into a pool filled with 12" of water from a measly 26 feet. lol It was suspenseful, but isn't that really a circus act?
Before they left Houston, they discovered a couple more talented kids. Well, actually, Danny Shay, a Bieber look-a-like, is 22 and a girl. lol. She was personable and clever, but I can't see her going to Vegas either.
Neither can I imagine a 6 year old in Vegas? Can he even get into the clubs? The ever so adorable Tanner, danced his little butt off and was good. But the "awwwwww" moment was when he told Abbey, his little girlfriend back home, "I love you."
The goose bumps moment for me came in Minneapolis, when a 27 year old, who two years ago, lost her fiance in an auto accident, sang Ave Maria. Listening to her talk and seeing her, I figured she didn't have much to offer probably, but when she started singing...well, what came out of her was completely unexpected. Yeah, a real wow experience.
Also in Minneapolis was a group of performers, ranging in ages from 9 to 18, called the Silhouettes. To say the act was original and clever is a masterpiece of understatement. They told a story in silhouette, duh, creating unbelievable objects like trees and hearts with their bodies. A much more elaborate form of the shadow on the wall doggie that I use to make with my hands when I was a kid.
Fortunately, they topped off the two hour event with The Kinetic King. He typified what you'd expect from Minnesota, accent and all. A real nerd, who, for lack of dominoes, when he was a kid, started using Popsicle sticks.
It took him eight hours to set up the sticks and less than a minute for it to come down. Interesting enough to watch, but not Vegas material, unless of course he continues to incorporate his natural comedic talents.
When Howie asked him why he wore a helmet and goggles and padding, he replied, "I believe in safe sticks." OMG! I'm still laughing out loud.
A few years ago, I wrote reviews and did publicity for an art gallery. All this would have had to be 50 and certainly no more than 100 words, the amount of space the paper allotted the gallery. Blogging is so much funner. hehe. I don't have to worry about names or their correct spelling, if I don't want to. I don't have to worry about correct punctuation, or run-on sentences. I don't have to worry about ending a sentence with a preposition. Yeah, blogging is funner for sure :D
Jay the Cyberspace Tron Guy? A Howie impersonator that even Howie couldn't relate to? An Asian James Brown? And that was just in Houston. We still had an hour of Minneapolis to sit through.
Whilst Piers was snowed in, Howie and Sharon were letting every crazy act through. Thank God he returned to offer true and reasonable critiques. Okay, Piers is the Len Goodman of AGT, but at least he doesn't think everyone has talent.
After 18 hours to get from New York to Minneapolis, he wasn't too happy, and needless to say, Piers is worse than Scrooge, when he is in a good mood. He didn't like anyone and in most cases I had to agree with him.
The Funny Little People, that Sharon and Howie voted to go to Vegas, belong at Disneyland, but Piers was downright mean and insulting. Then, Howie thought it would be funny to have these little elf-like creatures harass Piers backstage and even in his dressing room. If Piers had a gun, I think he might have used it - on Howie.
And excuse me, but when is body piercing considered a talent? Frankly, after seeing these acts, I'd like to get a hold of a gun and go on a rampage in the editing department.
In all fairness, there were some highlights. In Houston there was a knife throwing act that was pretty intense and a juggler, who juggled in a unique way - using lighting effects. The piece d resistance was a 19 year old, extremely effeminate singer, who accompanied himself on piano. When he sashayed onto the stage, I immediately felt badly for him, thinking he certainly doesn't have any talent - and I have no doubt, by the looks on the judges faces, that they thought the same. He was personable and funny, but when Daniel belted out a GaGa song, I was blown away. I mean, WOW! I can't wait to see what he'll bring to Vegas.
Of course, there's a plethora of vocalists throughout the season, who are good to great; however, when you bring to the show an act that keeps people on the edge of their seats - like acrobatics performed on a balancing beam - you have my undivided attention. I was spellbound with the risk's this woman took. It was definitely different and an act I'd think would draw crowds in Vegas.
Professor Splash, however, even with the risk factor...I mean how far can you go? His goal is to set a world record on AGT. Tonight he just dove into a pool filled with 12" of water from a measly 26 feet. lol It was suspenseful, but isn't that really a circus act?
Before they left Houston, they discovered a couple more talented kids. Well, actually, Danny Shay, a Bieber look-a-like, is 22 and a girl. lol. She was personable and clever, but I can't see her going to Vegas either.
Neither can I imagine a 6 year old in Vegas? Can he even get into the clubs? The ever so adorable Tanner, danced his little butt off and was good. But the "awwwwww" moment was when he told Abbey, his little girlfriend back home, "I love you."
The goose bumps moment for me came in Minneapolis, when a 27 year old, who two years ago, lost her fiance in an auto accident, sang Ave Maria. Listening to her talk and seeing her, I figured she didn't have much to offer probably, but when she started singing...well, what came out of her was completely unexpected. Yeah, a real wow experience.
Also in Minneapolis was a group of performers, ranging in ages from 9 to 18, called the Silhouettes. To say the act was original and clever is a masterpiece of understatement. They told a story in silhouette, duh, creating unbelievable objects like trees and hearts with their bodies. A much more elaborate form of the shadow on the wall doggie that I use to make with my hands when I was a kid.
Fortunately, they topped off the two hour event with The Kinetic King. He typified what you'd expect from Minnesota, accent and all. A real nerd, who, for lack of dominoes, when he was a kid, started using Popsicle sticks.
It took him eight hours to set up the sticks and less than a minute for it to come down. Interesting enough to watch, but not Vegas material, unless of course he continues to incorporate his natural comedic talents.
When Howie asked him why he wore a helmet and goggles and padding, he replied, "I believe in safe sticks." OMG! I'm still laughing out loud.
A few years ago, I wrote reviews and did publicity for an art gallery. All this would have had to be 50 and certainly no more than 100 words, the amount of space the paper allotted the gallery. Blogging is so much funner. hehe. I don't have to worry about names or their correct spelling, if I don't want to. I don't have to worry about correct punctuation, or run-on sentences. I don't have to worry about ending a sentence with a preposition. Yeah, blogging is funner for sure :D
Monday, June 6, 2011
All Comments Are Welcome
When it comes to comments, I do so appreciate the feed back I get from readers. And every time I see a new follower, I'm thrilled. However, there are exceptions.
I will not allow a reader's comment to be published if their sole purpose is to air their dirty laundry. And there are just some followers that you know too much about from other sources to even want to have them as a follower.
With that said, I hope y'all continue to read and enjoy the writing. My "hit list" (that's viewers) grows in numbers every day and it just makes me smile, even if they don't comment - but ummm... you can certainly click on one of the reactions that follows the post.
I will not allow a reader's comment to be published if their sole purpose is to air their dirty laundry. And there are just some followers that you know too much about from other sources to even want to have them as a follower.
With that said, I hope y'all continue to read and enjoy the writing. My "hit list" (that's viewers) grows in numbers every day and it just makes me smile, even if they don't comment - but ummm... you can certainly click on one of the reactions that follows the post.
MLG - Columbus - What An Exciting Weekend
Since Dallas, I've learned a bit more about the MLG. For one thing, it's not only about Starcraft. There's competitions in Halo and CoD. But my main interest is Starcraft, so that's my focus. I also know now that when players are in the pool, it doesn't mean they're off swimming. It's more like players who received the most points at the last event get to not have to work to get to the top in this event.
Avilo didn't make Dallas, so he didn't have points and therefore was not in the pool. The people I expected to be in the pool were, but I was more interested in the open bracket, especially the VT Gaming team.
The first match, Friday night was Idra v MC, a Protoss from Korea, who replaced Bomber last minute when there were problems with his visa. I'm pretty sure this is the first time that members from the GSL (Korean based tournament) were invited to the MLG and I can understand why. Korean Starcrafters are far more disciplined and better players. Then, again, Koreans don't have to worry about anything else, but playing.
With that aside, the first game in a BO3 started and both players were pretty aggressive. Idra, who spent a couple years in Korea, played brilliantly. Whether you like the kid or not - and trust me, his demeanor and respect for others leaves much to be desired - you can't deny he's a great player. He easily took the BO3 2-0. Then, again, I couldn't help but think, well yeah, this kid, MC, just flew in from Korea. Obviously, he's suffering jet lag and adjusting to the time differential.
One thing I have to say about Sundance, the people that run MLG, is that they listen and care about what their viewers, both at home and in the audience, have to say.
They made vast improvements over the Dallas tournament. The first day they even gave all the viewers the stream in HQ, which usually costs ten bucks. When I watched day two, I thought to myself, this is about the same quality as yesterday, so why would I wanna pay ten bucks for HQ. Then it was announced that Sundance was going to stream HQ, free, the remainder of the tournament. Duh! No wonder. lol
Technical issues, which were prevalent at Dallas, were minimal to the point of going unnoticed in Columbus. They had three streams. The Red Stream, the Blue Stream, and a cross view.
The issue for me was, if I watched the Red Stream, hosted by DJ Wheat and Day 9, then switched to the Blue Stream, hosted by Artosis and Tasteless, it didn't always switch over. At first I thought, wow, Artosis and Tasteless look just like DJ Wheat and Day 9. Yeah, right.
There were some complaints in Dallas about the players being able to hear the casters. But this time, there was no way that could happen. Sundance equipped the auditorium with sound proof booths and the players wore headphones and ear buds.
Yeah, it was pretty well run in Columbus. Now, if the format was different, it could be near perfect.
I watched several of the games that were being streamed, but wasn't enjoying them as much as I did Dallas. Obviously, that's because Avilo was in this tournament and the players in the open brackets aren't streamed. After all, who cares about the wannabes? All I could do was bite my nails and fidget; see who he was playing and if he won by looking at the brackets - or waiting for him to send me a "woohoo" over his cell.
Avilo's first two games were v Zerg and he 2-0'd both of em. Then came a Protoss and it seemed like forever not knowing what was going on. The brackets hadn't updated, but I got the text. "Lost." My heart sunk.
The rest of his team mates lost as well, but Pokebunny, the 15 year old, and Spades went further, before losing.
Luckyfool, the Terran, who has competed against and lost to Avilo in every DC area LAN had but one wish, to go further than Avilo at MLG. I was keeping a close eye on his progress and had told him in a post on TL that in my crystal ball I see two players, both Terran, in a match fighting to win at MLG. At first their features were foggy, but then...wait! What? Luckyfool v Avilo? OMG! I laughed so hard thinking that would have to be Lucky's worst nightmare. Unfortunately, he lost in round three, too.
That was when the Double Elimination that everyone tried explaining to me finally sunk in. Avilo still had a chance to play his way back through the loser's bracket, as did the rest of his team mates. Day two would be a new day for him and the rest of the VT Gaming team to work their way back up.
Avilo's first game on day two was v Protoss, but if he could win that, his next match was Terran and after that another Terran. His TvT is solid and wicked and I had no doubt he'd make it out of the loser's bracket and come home at least placing in the top 20.
After checking the brackets to see that he beat the the Protoss, Bosnic, I was ecstatic. I messaged him immediately, only he didn't respond. After a while I figured out that he went straight into the TvT against Cocoa. That's when I began to worry. I didn't have anymore nails to bite, so I got busy in the kitchen, when I heard the ding dong and raced back to my computer. HA! The first game was over and he was letting me know he steamrolled the guy. I wish. "Great! I'm out."
My jaw dropped and I just sat staring at the message. I blinked my eyes a couple times to make sure I was reading right. Then I cried. I experienced the same disappointment that I'm sure he was feeling. He, like so many others, worked so hard practicing, preparing to make a name for themselves at MLG; to show the haters and the naysayers that they were wrong.
Then, I got pissed. I cursed the universe for not giving the kid a break. "WTF do you want from him?" Then I cursed him for going right into another game without a break, without getting in the zone, for doing something dumb. "Why didn't he message me back. Why didn't he give me the chance to give him a pep talk before going into the TvT?"
Too angry and disappointed to even see his name on my screen, I messaged "It's over now, so have some fun. Hit on some cute girls and get their numbers." Then I left my computer. Drama queen that I am, I flung myself on the couch and sobbed.
When he called I ranted and raved, "Now what?"
Earlier, I had run to a festival in town, but it was like 105 degrees so I didn't stay. I figured I'd go back for the bands and dance around 10, but then I realized that whether he and I talk or not, he needs to know that I'm here for him. Plus the fact that when I told him I was going I got a one word message back "NO." lol
Anyway, two of his team mates were still fighting to win and even though I couldn't watch them play, I wanted to be here to support them. Spades and Pokebunny were doing well in the loser's bracket and I was rooting for at least one, if not both, to make it. Unfortunately, they both lost in the last round of the bracket. *sighs*
There were only a couple matches that I was interested in watching. The Idra matches for sure, because I wanted to boo and hiss, even though he's an excellent Zerg. When he lost to MC in the rematch from the loser's bracket I was like one happy gal.
MC had to win four of the matches in order to beat Idra. The first three games I watched, I thought, Wtf, Idra isn't even trying. He gg'd without even a fight after his allins failed. Guess he knew he wasn't going to win and wanted the games over and done. At least in the fourth match, he was fighting to win. It was an exciting game to watch, but I can't say I'm sorry Idra lost.
The other match I wanted to watch was Sheth, another Zerg, v anyone. He was playing fierce until he got into the pool with the big guys. JulyZerg, another Korean, beat him 2-1 and then MMA, yet another Korean, steamrolled him. Just made me smile.
See Sheth sells himself as a "good mannered" player, but I was watching Mr. Bitter's (Another VT member) stream one day and Sheth was dishing out all kinds of dirt about Avilo. You'd think a team mate might defend you, but apparently Mr. Bitter just wants to make a name for himself, so was too afraid. Anyway, Mr. Bitter has been taking lessons from Sheth. Let's see he lost his first game in the loser's round. Guess that's nuff said.
Of course I had to watch "Incholesterol" cheese his way to the top. His name is in quotes because that's what someone in the SOTG chat called him and I couldn't help but laugh. Someone else said, "He looks like a fat Matt Damon." Some clever and funny dude said, "Yeah, Fatt Damon."
Actually, that's mean, but what goes around comes around and he's been plenty mean to others. Of course, I've heard of a comedian, Don Rickles, that got his laughs from being rude and disrespectful to others - so maybe that's Incontrol's attempt at humor. *shrugs*
When SixjaxMajor, a Terran, whipped Incontrols butt with 13 ghosts, lots of vikings, nukes, and marines and marauders I smiled.
A really interesting segment to me was when Julie Alexandria interviewed Day9, a successful Starcraft commentator, who just got his Masters - I guess a fall back on career. He attributes his mom for much of his success. She always told him, "Embrace what you love doing." She never told him he had to be this or that. "Have fun and do what you love." Too bad more parents aren't as wise.
The three final players were Terran, Protoss, and Zerg - guess no one can say any one race is imba. lol. The final match for the championship was Losira, a Zerg, who looks about 10 years old, v MMA, a Terran; both from Korea. Did anyone expect otherwise?
MMA, will return to Korea, with the money and the trophy, and the knowledge that they still are the best Starcraft competitors in the world.
There's nothing better than to watch extremely skilled players fight to win. The place was filled to capacity, all cheering and rooting for their faves, which added to the excitement.
Okay, VT Gaming team - y'all better start watching replays and practicing even harder for Anaheim.
Avilo didn't make Dallas, so he didn't have points and therefore was not in the pool. The people I expected to be in the pool were, but I was more interested in the open bracket, especially the VT Gaming team.
The first match, Friday night was Idra v MC, a Protoss from Korea, who replaced Bomber last minute when there were problems with his visa. I'm pretty sure this is the first time that members from the GSL (Korean based tournament) were invited to the MLG and I can understand why. Korean Starcrafters are far more disciplined and better players. Then, again, Koreans don't have to worry about anything else, but playing.
With that aside, the first game in a BO3 started and both players were pretty aggressive. Idra, who spent a couple years in Korea, played brilliantly. Whether you like the kid or not - and trust me, his demeanor and respect for others leaves much to be desired - you can't deny he's a great player. He easily took the BO3 2-0. Then, again, I couldn't help but think, well yeah, this kid, MC, just flew in from Korea. Obviously, he's suffering jet lag and adjusting to the time differential.
One thing I have to say about Sundance, the people that run MLG, is that they listen and care about what their viewers, both at home and in the audience, have to say.
They made vast improvements over the Dallas tournament. The first day they even gave all the viewers the stream in HQ, which usually costs ten bucks. When I watched day two, I thought to myself, this is about the same quality as yesterday, so why would I wanna pay ten bucks for HQ. Then it was announced that Sundance was going to stream HQ, free, the remainder of the tournament. Duh! No wonder. lol
Technical issues, which were prevalent at Dallas, were minimal to the point of going unnoticed in Columbus. They had three streams. The Red Stream, the Blue Stream, and a cross view.
The issue for me was, if I watched the Red Stream, hosted by DJ Wheat and Day 9, then switched to the Blue Stream, hosted by Artosis and Tasteless, it didn't always switch over. At first I thought, wow, Artosis and Tasteless look just like DJ Wheat and Day 9. Yeah, right.
There were some complaints in Dallas about the players being able to hear the casters. But this time, there was no way that could happen. Sundance equipped the auditorium with sound proof booths and the players wore headphones and ear buds.
Yeah, it was pretty well run in Columbus. Now, if the format was different, it could be near perfect.
I watched several of the games that were being streamed, but wasn't enjoying them as much as I did Dallas. Obviously, that's because Avilo was in this tournament and the players in the open brackets aren't streamed. After all, who cares about the wannabes? All I could do was bite my nails and fidget; see who he was playing and if he won by looking at the brackets - or waiting for him to send me a "woohoo" over his cell.
Avilo's first two games were v Zerg and he 2-0'd both of em. Then came a Protoss and it seemed like forever not knowing what was going on. The brackets hadn't updated, but I got the text. "Lost." My heart sunk.
The rest of his team mates lost as well, but Pokebunny, the 15 year old, and Spades went further, before losing.
Luckyfool, the Terran, who has competed against and lost to Avilo in every DC area LAN had but one wish, to go further than Avilo at MLG. I was keeping a close eye on his progress and had told him in a post on TL that in my crystal ball I see two players, both Terran, in a match fighting to win at MLG. At first their features were foggy, but then...wait! What? Luckyfool v Avilo? OMG! I laughed so hard thinking that would have to be Lucky's worst nightmare. Unfortunately, he lost in round three, too.
That was when the Double Elimination that everyone tried explaining to me finally sunk in. Avilo still had a chance to play his way back through the loser's bracket, as did the rest of his team mates. Day two would be a new day for him and the rest of the VT Gaming team to work their way back up.
Avilo's first game on day two was v Protoss, but if he could win that, his next match was Terran and after that another Terran. His TvT is solid and wicked and I had no doubt he'd make it out of the loser's bracket and come home at least placing in the top 20.
After checking the brackets to see that he beat the the Protoss, Bosnic, I was ecstatic. I messaged him immediately, only he didn't respond. After a while I figured out that he went straight into the TvT against Cocoa. That's when I began to worry. I didn't have anymore nails to bite, so I got busy in the kitchen, when I heard the ding dong and raced back to my computer. HA! The first game was over and he was letting me know he steamrolled the guy. I wish. "Great! I'm out."
My jaw dropped and I just sat staring at the message. I blinked my eyes a couple times to make sure I was reading right. Then I cried. I experienced the same disappointment that I'm sure he was feeling. He, like so many others, worked so hard practicing, preparing to make a name for themselves at MLG; to show the haters and the naysayers that they were wrong.
Then, I got pissed. I cursed the universe for not giving the kid a break. "WTF do you want from him?" Then I cursed him for going right into another game without a break, without getting in the zone, for doing something dumb. "Why didn't he message me back. Why didn't he give me the chance to give him a pep talk before going into the TvT?"
Too angry and disappointed to even see his name on my screen, I messaged "It's over now, so have some fun. Hit on some cute girls and get their numbers." Then I left my computer. Drama queen that I am, I flung myself on the couch and sobbed.
When he called I ranted and raved, "Now what?"
Earlier, I had run to a festival in town, but it was like 105 degrees so I didn't stay. I figured I'd go back for the bands and dance around 10, but then I realized that whether he and I talk or not, he needs to know that I'm here for him. Plus the fact that when I told him I was going I got a one word message back "NO." lol
Anyway, two of his team mates were still fighting to win and even though I couldn't watch them play, I wanted to be here to support them. Spades and Pokebunny were doing well in the loser's bracket and I was rooting for at least one, if not both, to make it. Unfortunately, they both lost in the last round of the bracket. *sighs*
There were only a couple matches that I was interested in watching. The Idra matches for sure, because I wanted to boo and hiss, even though he's an excellent Zerg. When he lost to MC in the rematch from the loser's bracket I was like one happy gal.
MC had to win four of the matches in order to beat Idra. The first three games I watched, I thought, Wtf, Idra isn't even trying. He gg'd without even a fight after his allins failed. Guess he knew he wasn't going to win and wanted the games over and done. At least in the fourth match, he was fighting to win. It was an exciting game to watch, but I can't say I'm sorry Idra lost.
The other match I wanted to watch was Sheth, another Zerg, v anyone. He was playing fierce until he got into the pool with the big guys. JulyZerg, another Korean, beat him 2-1 and then MMA, yet another Korean, steamrolled him. Just made me smile.
See Sheth sells himself as a "good mannered" player, but I was watching Mr. Bitter's (Another VT member) stream one day and Sheth was dishing out all kinds of dirt about Avilo. You'd think a team mate might defend you, but apparently Mr. Bitter just wants to make a name for himself, so was too afraid. Anyway, Mr. Bitter has been taking lessons from Sheth. Let's see he lost his first game in the loser's round. Guess that's nuff said.
Of course I had to watch "Incholesterol" cheese his way to the top. His name is in quotes because that's what someone in the SOTG chat called him and I couldn't help but laugh. Someone else said, "He looks like a fat Matt Damon." Some clever and funny dude said, "Yeah, Fatt Damon."
Actually, that's mean, but what goes around comes around and he's been plenty mean to others. Of course, I've heard of a comedian, Don Rickles, that got his laughs from being rude and disrespectful to others - so maybe that's Incontrol's attempt at humor. *shrugs*
When SixjaxMajor, a Terran, whipped Incontrols butt with 13 ghosts, lots of vikings, nukes, and marines and marauders I smiled.
A really interesting segment to me was when Julie Alexandria interviewed Day9, a successful Starcraft commentator, who just got his Masters - I guess a fall back on career. He attributes his mom for much of his success. She always told him, "Embrace what you love doing." She never told him he had to be this or that. "Have fun and do what you love." Too bad more parents aren't as wise.
The three final players were Terran, Protoss, and Zerg - guess no one can say any one race is imba. lol. The final match for the championship was Losira, a Zerg, who looks about 10 years old, v MMA, a Terran; both from Korea. Did anyone expect otherwise?
MMA, will return to Korea, with the money and the trophy, and the knowledge that they still are the best Starcraft competitors in the world.
There's nothing better than to watch extremely skilled players fight to win. The place was filled to capacity, all cheering and rooting for their faves, which added to the excitement.
Okay, VT Gaming team - y'all better start watching replays and practicing even harder for Anaheim.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Obedient Women
I came across an article today that intrigued me; not that it's a new concept, not that it's even foreign in today's society, but because it's controversial. In parts of the world obedient wives are a norm - in the U.S. not so much - I mean since women burned their bras in the 60s as a sign of liberation in a man's world, women have not had to "obey" their men.
In the 50s, it was customary for a woman to stay home and do womanly things. The old saying, "Barefoot and pregnant" was what a man expected. When he married, his naive and innocent little woman, she'd be obedient. She'd have dinner on the table, the house immaculate, and be prepared to serve him in any way he wished when he arrived home. That concept was drummed into little boys and girls since the beginning of time. After all He was the one who worked hard all day to provide for his family. However, it hasn't been that way for decades.
Although, it seems to me that when one person is the head of the household, there would be less arguments. I had a friend a while back, who was extremely submissive, but very strong-willed. She was bright and intelligent and was not without her say, but in the end, she deferred to her husband's decisions.
There exist today many 50s households. A few years ago I came across "The Good Wife's Guide" purportedly written as an article in Good Housekeeping; however, according to Snopes it may well be fake. It ends with a "Good wife always knows her place."
http://j-walk.com/other/goodwife/index.htm
After reading the "Guide" I thought, wait! What? Did such a woman ever exist? And yeah, what man wouldn't want a little slave running around the house, catering to his every need; never questioning his authority?
Of course in those days, women weren't suppose to enjoy sex either. They had to endure it to please their husbands. It was their duty as a wife.
There are Christian groups, as well, that believe the man should dominate the roost. After all "It says so in the Bible." Well, duh, that book was written by man, so yeah.
When I watch TV movies, I favor the TCM station. Films like The Thin Man, make me smile. Nick is always "The king of the castle." Not because he is, but because Nora - the really smart wife - allows him to think he's in charge, whilst all along she controls their marriage and everything he does.
People who meet me immediately get the impression that I'm a strong-willed, defiant, take no hostages kind of woman. As a matter of fact, the men I attract are usually extremely submissive types; some are just plain fearful of me. There have been, however, a couple of men, who have stood up to me in a caveman, but gentlemanly sort of way, and made me weak in the knees. If they aren't strong men, capable of tenderness, caring, and understanding, the relationship doesn't last for me.
They have to have that Nick Charles kinda flare to counter the Nora Charles kind of woman I'd like to think I am. I know what I want and I know how to get the man to give me what I want, whilst letting him think it was his idea all along. lol. Manipulative? I don't think so. Tricky? Maybe, a little. But women have always had to use a bit of trickery to make their lives easier.
My mom always said, "You can catch more flies with honey" and I've tried to remember that, although once I'm pushed to my Italian temper rage, it's difficult for me to regain my sweet, "little lady-like" composure. Whilst I enjoy being the "little woman" it takes a strong man, with confidence, who is self-assured to evoke that sweetness and submissiveness that I am capable of hiding so well.
Still, I know I could never be that 50s kind of woman. Nevertheless, I enjoy being a girl. I don't want to be the boss of some big corporation and then have to come home and be in charge of everything. In part that's what women's liberation has done.
For one thing, I think it's made men afraid to be men - confused in a way as to how to treat women. And it's given the women the right to go out and work all day (still not earning the wages of a man) then come home and make dinner, do all the household chores, have babies, take care of them, and everything else a 50s housewife used to do.
Yoko Ono, a strong, in charge kind of woman, agreed to let her hubby, John Lennon, who had become tired of the outside world at the time, be the house husband. Nothing is wrong if it works out for two people. So why do "groups" have to stick their nose in other people's business?
I have a cousin, who once told me that she'd rather hold two jobs than have to clean house and cook. Good thing she married a chef. lol Of course, you wouldn't want to drop by unannounced - come to think of it, it wouldn't matter either way.
If a woman "wants" to be the Nora Charles of the relationship so be it. It's her decision. Why do other people know what's best and feel compelled to emancipate the "poor, deluded woman?"
Women's Rights groups are appalled with the Malyasian "Obedient Wives Club" and are determined to interfere with their views.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/06/05/us-malaysia-women-idUSTRE7540FL20110605
If these women prefer to be obedient little wives, leave them alone.
What say you?
In the 50s, it was customary for a woman to stay home and do womanly things. The old saying, "Barefoot and pregnant" was what a man expected. When he married, his naive and innocent little woman, she'd be obedient. She'd have dinner on the table, the house immaculate, and be prepared to serve him in any way he wished when he arrived home. That concept was drummed into little boys and girls since the beginning of time. After all He was the one who worked hard all day to provide for his family. However, it hasn't been that way for decades.
Although, it seems to me that when one person is the head of the household, there would be less arguments. I had a friend a while back, who was extremely submissive, but very strong-willed. She was bright and intelligent and was not without her say, but in the end, she deferred to her husband's decisions.
There exist today many 50s households. A few years ago I came across "The Good Wife's Guide" purportedly written as an article in Good Housekeeping; however, according to Snopes it may well be fake. It ends with a "Good wife always knows her place."
http://j-walk.com/other/goodwife/index.htm
After reading the "Guide" I thought, wait! What? Did such a woman ever exist? And yeah, what man wouldn't want a little slave running around the house, catering to his every need; never questioning his authority?
Of course in those days, women weren't suppose to enjoy sex either. They had to endure it to please their husbands. It was their duty as a wife.
There are Christian groups, as well, that believe the man should dominate the roost. After all "It says so in the Bible." Well, duh, that book was written by man, so yeah.
When I watch TV movies, I favor the TCM station. Films like The Thin Man, make me smile. Nick is always "The king of the castle." Not because he is, but because Nora - the really smart wife - allows him to think he's in charge, whilst all along she controls their marriage and everything he does.
People who meet me immediately get the impression that I'm a strong-willed, defiant, take no hostages kind of woman. As a matter of fact, the men I attract are usually extremely submissive types; some are just plain fearful of me. There have been, however, a couple of men, who have stood up to me in a caveman, but gentlemanly sort of way, and made me weak in the knees. If they aren't strong men, capable of tenderness, caring, and understanding, the relationship doesn't last for me.
They have to have that Nick Charles kinda flare to counter the Nora Charles kind of woman I'd like to think I am. I know what I want and I know how to get the man to give me what I want, whilst letting him think it was his idea all along. lol. Manipulative? I don't think so. Tricky? Maybe, a little. But women have always had to use a bit of trickery to make their lives easier.
My mom always said, "You can catch more flies with honey" and I've tried to remember that, although once I'm pushed to my Italian temper rage, it's difficult for me to regain my sweet, "little lady-like" composure. Whilst I enjoy being the "little woman" it takes a strong man, with confidence, who is self-assured to evoke that sweetness and submissiveness that I am capable of hiding so well.
Still, I know I could never be that 50s kind of woman. Nevertheless, I enjoy being a girl. I don't want to be the boss of some big corporation and then have to come home and be in charge of everything. In part that's what women's liberation has done.
For one thing, I think it's made men afraid to be men - confused in a way as to how to treat women. And it's given the women the right to go out and work all day (still not earning the wages of a man) then come home and make dinner, do all the household chores, have babies, take care of them, and everything else a 50s housewife used to do.
Yoko Ono, a strong, in charge kind of woman, agreed to let her hubby, John Lennon, who had become tired of the outside world at the time, be the house husband. Nothing is wrong if it works out for two people. So why do "groups" have to stick their nose in other people's business?
I have a cousin, who once told me that she'd rather hold two jobs than have to clean house and cook. Good thing she married a chef. lol Of course, you wouldn't want to drop by unannounced - come to think of it, it wouldn't matter either way.
If a woman "wants" to be the Nora Charles of the relationship so be it. It's her decision. Why do other people know what's best and feel compelled to emancipate the "poor, deluded woman?"
Women's Rights groups are appalled with the Malyasian "Obedient Wives Club" and are determined to interfere with their views.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/06/05/us-malaysia-women-idUSTRE7540FL20110605
If these women prefer to be obedient little wives, leave them alone.
What say you?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)