Monday, December 24, 2007

Merry Christmas and Peace On Earth


I wanted to take a moment to thank all of those people out there in cyberworld who have made it a point to visit my little place on the web. I am truly honored by your presence and comments. This is the time of reflection and re-examination: As I look back I know that I have been extremely blessed this year, and every year.

I look forward to the new year because we have an opportunity to change the direction that this country is heading. We have 1 year left of the Bush Crime Family. That in and of itself is enough!

Thank you all for visiting - 2008 will prove to be an even bigger year in my blogging - so continue to come back and visit!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Sunday, December 23, 2007

Sweeney Todd



AMAZING!!!

Rarely does a movie leave me speachless. Tim Burton managed to make this dark musical a bit darker and a bit more violent than you might originally think.

Like I said before......AMAZING!!!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Monday, December 17, 2007

My Guilty Pleasure: Daughtry

Ok. I admit that I am madly in lust with Chris Daughtry. He should have won IDOL, but has proven that it doesn't take a win on IDOL to be a win in the real world.

I got an email from the Daughtry site touting their new video. SO I decided, why not show it all for you all to see?

So enjoy....I know I will.....



Did I mention that Chris is AMAZINGLY HOT????

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Sunday, December 16, 2007

REST IN PEACE: Dan Folgelberg



The Leader of the Band has passed away. He died at the age of 56 of Prostate Cancer. A terrible loss to the music world.

Some of my most favorite music was made by Dan Folgelberg. He will truly be missed.

Please take a moment to donate to the Prostate Cancer Foundation . You can donate as little or as much as you would like...my goal is to donate what I would normally buy at I-tunes in a month....

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Thursday, December 13, 2007

Music From The Edge: The Jets


Thank you all for your patience. The holidays have really gotten me wrapped up in other projects that my blog has taken a back seat. Even though I have promised a number of things - that have so far not been delivered. (Worry not my friends, I will keep my promise.)

But in the spirit of the holidays, I came across a lost 80s Christmas LP, "Christmas With The Jets."



An all-in-the-family group in the vein of The Osmonds (yes, The Jets are also Mormon) and the Jackson 5. The Jets blasted on the scene in 1985-86 on MCA records with their first smash hit "Crush on You," (Billboard Hot 100 #3, Hot Dance Music/Club Play #4). Their first single "Curiosity" failed to gain any airplay on the pop charts (but you could definately feel the Minn/Prince vibe happening!)(Hot Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Singles and Tracks #8). They decided to cash in on the success of their debut LP "The Jets" (Billboard Top 200 #21), with a Christmas LP the following year in 1986. Easily a rushed project (that shows in the production and choice of songs), this LP was meant to showcase the individual talents within the group - with each member taking a lead vocal on a selected track. My synopisis of this is simple - most of the members should have remained back-up vocals. This did not stop The Jets chart success - the following release in 1987 "Magic" continued the success of the first two LPs (Billboard Top 200, #35). The biggest track from this LP was "You Got It All" (Billboard Hot 100, #1), followed by the dance track, "Rocket 2 U" (Billboard Hot 100, #6, Hot Dance/Club Play #3). I have included the 12" remix of "Rocket 2 U" as your bonus present.

So here is your Early Christmas Present...

Download: The Jets "Christmas With The Jets"

Bitrate: 128Kbps

Tracklisting:

SIDE A:

This Christmas
Christmas In My Heart
All Alone On Christmas Eve
On Christmas Night
Home For Christmas

SIDE B:

Somewhere Out There
Love So Rare
Christmas Is My Favorite Time of Year
You Make It Christmas
The Christmas, This Year

~~Ripped From Vinyl~~

BONUS CHRISTMAS GIFT

Download: The Jets "Rocket 2 U" 12" Remix
Bitrate: 128Kbps

Tracklisting:
Rocket 2 U (Extended Version)
Rocket 2 U (Radio Edit)
Rocket 2 U (Dub)
Rocket 2 U (Percappella)

~~Ripped From Vinyl~~

BONUS BONUS CHRISTMAS GIFT


Enjoy - and remember to donate non-perishable food items to your local food pantry...there are many throughout the country that are running extremely low on food or are out completely!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Saturday, December 01, 2007

World AIDS Day



Today is a day of remembrance. Remembering those that have died of AIDS and those that are currently living with HIV/AIDS. We have not won this battle yet. 33 Million people have this terrible disease. Take a moment today to learn about how HIV/AIDS has impacted the world. The fight is not over. Silence=Death.

Here are few organizations that you can give freely of your time and especially your money. Please give generously!

46664 Foundation

AIDS Memorial Quilt

amFAR

BUY RED






This is not a day of mourning....it is a CALL TO ACTION. This is why I alway sign off my posts with....

Peace.Love.Live.

JPB

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Please stand by

Hi everyone -
Been extremely busy with the holidays! It is my solemn promise to have a few great posts by this weekend for your enjoyment.

Preview: Big Pig Full Length LP (FINALLY!)Big Pig 12" Remix/ Sam Harris 12" Mix /Street Heat 12" Remix (may have to be postponed)/Thoughts on Thanksgiving/President Bush Does it Again.

Now doesn't that have your interests piqued?????

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

"The World Is Yours When You 'Catch 5'"

I was watching a Conan O'Brien repeat, and Patricia Heaton was being interviewed. As a native of Cleveland Ohio, she worked for WEWS television - the first station in Cleveland, (I always prefered this channel to any other). Anyway, she was talking about one of the "promo ads" for the news, and stated that WEWS was the first news in the nation to have its own "jingle," then they showed the clip....well, bells went off in my head - I REMEMBERED THESE! I youtube'd it - and it was there! I have to share it cause it is so funny and dated...but it was the 70's. So enjoy!



Now - my interest was so piqued that I had to find out more - and WEWS has a history of firsts.....



WEWS (Channel 5), the first television station in Ohio and only the 16th in the nation, went on the air officially on 17 Dec. 1947. Owned by the E.W. Scripps Co., publishers of the CLEVELAND PRESS, its call letters were chosen to represent the initials of the company's founder, EDWARD WYLLIS SCRIPPS†. WEWS has been the flagship station of the Scripps-Howard Broadcasting Co., which had its headquarters in the station's facilities on Euclid Ave at E. 30th from 1975-87. Originally located behind the Sterling-Linder-Davis department store on E. 13th St., WEWS signed on with a variety show hosted by actor Jas. Stewart. Jas. C. Hanrahan was its first general manager, aided by chief engineer Joseph B. Epperson. Although first affiliated with CBS, WEWS became an ABC outlet in the 1950s, when CBS in Cleveland jumped to WJW. Locally, WEWS was responsible for one of the nation's longest-running variety shows in the "Giant Tiger Amateur Hour," later known as the "Gene Carroll Show" after its master of ceremonies, GENE CARROLL†. DOROTHY FULDHEIM† appeared on the station for 37 years as news commentator and host of the "One O'Clock Club." WEWS was the first local station to win the Geo. Foster Peabody Award for public-service programming. Another WEWS show, "Morning Exchange," is acknowledged in the industry as the model for the national "Good Morning America" program. In the local news field, Channel 5's "Eyewitness News" pioneered in the use of mini-portable cameras and helicopters in the 1970s. Its uplink satellite was the first of its kind in Cleveland, and in 1991 WEWS introduced the 24-hour newsroom concept with live, hourly updates.
There are a lot of great things coming from Cleveland. I am so glad to be heading home for the holidays!!!

Happy Thanksgiving (a few days early!!!)

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Monday, November 19, 2007

Holidays are Here: Marshall Fields (Macy's Pictures)

Steve and I had to go downtown 2 Saturday's ago so he could pick out new frame for his glasses. As he was fettering about the eyeglasses, I decided to walk around the famous Marshall Fields (now Macys) and see what wonderful things they were doing for the holidays. Here are some pictures of my walk.





The window displays are based on the Nutcracker theme. Unfortunately, this weekend was warmer than expected and people kept stopping in front of the windows...I was never able to make a shot quick enough!!! I will have to go back late in the evening (maybe) to see if I can get better pictures.







These pictures are taken from the fourth floor looking down.....these are two different atrium's ....the second atrium has a tile roof (last picture) that is absolutely amazing.

Hope you enjoy!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: Big Pig (UPDATE)

I know I promised the full length AND the 12" Remix...I still plan on delivering that. I am currently waiting on my FedEx package to arrive from Portland. I went online to see when it would be arriving (and estimated time was WEDNESDAY.) Well, if it doesn't come by Tuesday, you will all have to wait just a bit longer since I will be driving back to Ohio for the Thanksgiving Holiday.

I promise, though, that it will be worth the wait!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Sunday, November 18, 2007

Happy Birthday to my sister Jodi

My sister is another year older today. I know I needed to start doing the birthday blog post with my brother (cause he is the oldest and it would make the most sense) but I didn't have the wherewithal to make it happen until now.

So going forward, I plan on wishing my family members happy birthday via my blog in my own special way.

My sister Jodi is 7 years younger than me....youngest of the family - and as we were growing up - the BIGGEST tattle-tale known to man. She mentioned in a post on her blog "Figuring It Out" that she didn't feel close to me as she was growing up.

I think I have an answer for some of that. As Jodi was getting to the age of "understanding" her surroundings, I was getting into trouble. Knowing that she was a tattle-tale to the Nth degree - it was to my benefit not to be in her line of sight...or in earshot....

Well, I always loved my little sister - she was cute as a button and just so darn lovable. But being a teen-age boy that was more interested in not getting caught, a strong relationship with Jodi was like a moth to a flame. I knew that my brother Jimmy was near and dear to her, and so was my sister Jenny - so I guess I felt OK with this decision. Jenny (my other sister that is 4 years my junior) was a bit easier to work with -though she was "sneaky"....I know this cause she used to sneak in my bedroom when I wasn't there and look at my dirty magazines (and they were all of men) - I don't even know how she reconciled this in her mind.....anyway, I knew that I had to be a bit OK with Jenny since she knew this fact about me but didn't tell mom....I guess she didn't want to dry up her supply of porn?!

So that is my little story about my little sister Jodi (and my little sister Jenny).....I love them both so dearly - I am so glad that I was able to build a very strong relationship and bond with both of them as I got older.

SO....here is a picture that happened to fall out of my album (literally) as I was cleaning up my office - I figured it was a sign and that I had to use it...

From left to right is me, Jodi, and Jimmy (Jenny was busy getting her first communion - so she's not in this picture) but we were all there supporting her big day in the rites of the Catholic Church....
I believe I was 10 or 11, which makes Jodi 3 or 4, and Jimmy 12 or 13. I don't have the memory that both of my sisters have (I think it may be because of ......well, we won't get into that here)....anyway here is the picture...




And now for a "now" picture of my sister Jodi. I didn't ask permission - but I loved this picture so much I had to....




HAPPY BIRTHDAY JODI!!!! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!!!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Music From The Edge: LaTour


The very first song that I bought with my employee discount at Camelot Music was LaTour's "People Are Still Having Sex." It still remains one of my favorite songs to this day as it reminds me of my "dream job!"

William LaTour, a Chicago transplant, came to fame in 1991 with his controversial hit song. Many people were upset that the lyrics of the song stated that "This AIDS thing's not working." Pressured, the label forced a change to the lyrics for the radio edit. The change resulted is a less than acceptable "This SAFE thing's not working."

Whether it was the hard driving beat, or the controversial nature of the song, itself, LaTour managed to hit #1 on Billboard's Hot Dance Music/Club Play, #3 on Billboard's Hot Dance Music/Maxi-Single Sales, and #35 on Billboard's Hot 100.




Download:

People Are Still Having Sex (LP Version)

People Are Still Having Sex (Ralph's Orgasmic Mix)

Be on the look-out for a new CD from LaTour in June 2008.


Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Fox News: Fair Balanced and Pornographic?

I was perusing my favorite blogs when I came across this post from a fellow blogger on his site ... "I am a TV junkie"

I have re posted the video for my visitors to view for themselves. I caution you that some of the scenes may be considered offensive to some (and I was certainly surprised). So view at your own risk.



What I find most interesting about this is the HYPOCRISY of FOX NOISE (I mean news). For an organization that is trying to portray itself as "Fair and Balanced," it most certainly leans "Conservative and Right".....

As one of the major tenants of the Conservative Right, pornography is right up there with gays and guns. Interesting how Fox Noise (I mean News) tries to titillate its viewers with TRASHY news stories.....

But then again, it is FOX.

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Music From The Edge: Big Pig

I am in Portland,OR....just got back from Everyday Music. (I love this place!!) Let's just say I spent another 85.00 on 12" Remixes from the 80's to share with all of you....(this is starting to get expensive and I really haven't even begun yet!!)..

Well, as I am sifting through the bins I found the FULL LENGTH LP of Big Pig's "Bonk". How awesome. So, even though I promised you all the 12" remix of "Breakaway".....as soon as I get back from Portland....I will be giving you the ENTIRE LP + the 12" remix.

Just thought I would let you all know (and give you a bit of a teaser...)

I am going back to the OTHER Everyday Music (on the northside of Portland) to see what they have...I know I will be surprised and impressed....hope you will be to!

Friday, November 09, 2007

Wow...It's Hard To Believe

It is hard to believe it's been 5 days since I posted anything. I promise that I will do better - but honestly, things have been crazy. Just when I thought I was finally over Strep Throat (from TWO Weeks ago) - it came raging back with a bad sinus infection to boot....Well thank God for drugs - I got some really good antibiotics that my doctor promises will kill the bug for good...(thankfully.) So, though I don't feel "sick", I must honestly say that I haven't been this ill in many a year......No worries - I should be back to full force in a few more days.

So, even though I haven't been writing in my blog - I have been busy! I decided that I needed to catalogue my 12" remix collection...so that I know what I have - and so that I don't buy any more duplicates! (I got really upset when I bought Big Pig's Breakaway 4 times...I guess I just got excited cause I love the song so much).

(Yes, I will post the 12" Remix of this soon - way too tired tonight!!

Also, on the political front - I have yet another new conspiracy theory.....crazy as it sounds I don't put it past this administration.....so stay tuned!!

I am trying these "teaser" subjects to keep you all coming back! And speaking of you all....I know you are out there - I see the hits each and every day....who are you? I would love to know who is reading my blog.....so do a shout out!

Til We meet again!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Sunday, November 04, 2007

Music From The Edge: Smart E's


In honor of my sister's 30Th birthday, I sifted through all of my remix vinyl and remix maxi cassettes to find a song that she loves. Well, I looked for about two days - and finally found it!!!

Smart E's was a rave group founded by Luna-C (a well known British DJ and producer), who found some success in the US with their single "Sesame's Treet" (a remix of the theme song from Sesame Street). This success was due in large part to KISS FM and DJ Steve Jackson who picked this song to play on his radio show. This is a perfect example of how radio DJ's influenced the music scene (which is now completely sterile - and for those that care generic).

Anyway, Jodi - this is for you, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

Download: Smart E's "Sesame's Treet" (MaxiCassette)

Bitrate:
128 Kbps

Side A:

Sesame's Treet (12" Version)
Sesame's Treet (Krome & Time Remix)
Sesame's Treet (Edit)

Side B:
Sesame's Treet (Beltram Mix)
Sesame's Treet (Beltram's Hardcore Mix)
Magnificent

When it was all said and done - Smart E's reached #1 on Billboard's Hot Dance Music/Maxi-Singles Sales, #20 on Billboard's Hot Dance Music/Club Play, #39 on Billboard's Rythmic Top 40, and #60 on the Billboard Hot 100.

And just to cap it off for everyone - here is the video for Smart E's Sesame's Treet. Enjoy!!



Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Music From The Edge: Pat & Mick



Sneaking into the local gay bar at age 19 got a lot easier. I had actually been doing it since I was 16....So, 3 years later I was a "fixture" in the local gay dance club and had even been given a spot on the 'coveted' box. (Yes, I was a box boy). One of my fondest memories when I was anointed with this honor was hearing the song "Use it Up & Wear It Out" blast through the speakers on the dance floor....the place went NUTS. So as my tribute to these early days - I give you the entire Maxi-Cassette of Pat & Mick.

DOWNLOAD: Pat & Mick "Use It Up & Wear It Out" (MaxiCassette)

Bitrate: 128 Kbps

Side One:

Use It Up & Wear It Out (7:13)
I Haven't Stopped Dancing Yet (6:13)
Let's All Chant (Something For The Kids Mix) (6:28)

Side Two:

Star Teaser (4:59)
You Better Not Fool Around (4:23)
On The Night (6:23)

~~Ripped From Cassette~~


Pat & Mick, The British Duo comprised of Pat Sharp & Mick Brown managed to make a small ripple on the US pop charts with the help of uber-dance-producers Stock, Aitken, & Waterman (Remember Rick Astley?). Producing the entire maxi-cassette as well as taking writing credits for the entire Side Two, the dance floors of gay bars throughout the country were brimming with hot bodies dancing to the famous "One, Two, Three...Shake Your Body Down..."

The most successful track off this maxi-cassette was, of course, Use It Up & Wear It Out (surprisingly the SECOND release from the same titled cassette), making The Billboard Hot 100 and peaking at #81 (#40 on The Billboard hot Dance Music/MaxiSingle Sales). The first single released, "Let's All Chant" failed to chart.

Interestingly, I was unable to locate a video for either of these tracks, but was able to find one for their third and final single from the album "I Haven't Stopped Dancing Yet." Again, "Dancing" failed to chart...but the video remains iconic of the late 80's hair and fashion...what a blast.



Though Pat & Mick worked through the early 90's they were unable to re-create the excitement and panache of their earlier work.

Enjoy!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Monday, October 29, 2007

Pushing Daisies



I haven't had a lot of time to watch TV as of late,(hard to believe, I know) - but starting a new job and trying to find time to continuously hit the gym, keep up with my blog, work on converting record albums and cassette tapes to MP3's, finishing up cleaning the garage, and making sure that I still have time for my partner make TV watching a bit difficult.....(THANK GOD FOR DVR!)

As I stated before, I don't' have time for much TV - but I Tivo'd Pushing Daisies because it looked interesting......and it is exactly that. I know that it finished 2nd behind FOX and the World Series - so all can't be bad - not to mention that this show is just "different."

If you haven't had a chance - click the link above and go to ABC and view a few episodes for yourself.....I know you will enjoy it.

As for Bionic Woman - I LOVE IT.....but for some reason, it has been fading terribly in the ratings since its debut week. I am confident that NBC is working hard to build the audience (there is gonna be a love interest)...we'll see - it would be awful to see that show fail... :(

Well, that is all for now....

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Sunday, October 28, 2007

My Mix Tapes: DJPB Presents Hott Grooves '96

Before I get started, I would love to invite you all to see my brother's blog. In his latest post, my brother accuses me of suffering from BDS or Bush Derangement Syndrome. Well, I commented (he suckers me into it), but I can assure all of my great readers that I suffer from no such syndrome- I only suffer from the REALITY that Bush is, in fact, our President.

On a lighter note, I have found all of my cassettes from my club days. Some were made for me, some I made myself. My latest hobby (I have a few now), is to transfer these to MP3 format and to share with all of you. Some of the mix tapes are better than others, but all of them contain rare remixes. So for my inaugural post I give you, DJPB Presents: Hott Grooves '96.

I recorded these mixes from my personal collection of music - we didn't have IPods back then. I loved to put stuff together so I could listen to it when I was in the car (or getting ready to hit the clubs....) Knowing me - there is a story behind the songs chosen for this mix tape (but for the life of me I don't know what it is...I might make something up later.)

This mix tape was recorded as a single MP3 file for Side A, and then a single MP3 file for Side B.

SIDE A:

James Brown Is Dead – LA Style
I’m In Love With You – BKS
All or Nothing – Miisa
Keep Me Hangin’ On – Reba McEntire
One More Try (Junior’s Factory Mix) – Kristine W.
Hot Stuff (Hott Mix) – DJ Miko
I’m Your Man – Lisa Moorish Feat. George Michael
Gimme Luv – Pulsar
Tell Me – Activate
Baby Baby (Extended Mix) –Corona


SIDE B:

Input – S50
If Madonna Calls – Junior Vasquez
Sky High – Newton
No More Tears - KD Lang & Andy Bell
Freedom – DJ Bobo
I’ll Be Alright – MTS
Fastlove - George Michael
Return To Innocence – Enigma


Click on the SIDE A or SIDE B link(s) to download). Enjoy. Download it to your IPod. But most of all let me know what you think!!!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

The Portland Blues

I am in Portland, OR for work this week. The weather has been wonderful: 75 degrees and sunny (how unusual for Portland?!). Exciting as this is, I am here for work...training really. But as I found out this afternoon, I am forced to be isolated in my hotel room for 24-48 hours. Why? Because I somehow contracted Strep Throat...I went to the clinic here Tuesday afternoon and got the news. I am miserable.

There is nothing worse than being sick. But...that is not true. There is NOTHING worse than being sick (bedridden sick, isolation sick) than being sick in a town where there is no family and a hotel with a bad mattress.

I so much want to be at home in my own bed, snuggling up with my body pillow while my partner rubs my back. (Oh, did I tell you that I am a BIG baby when I am sick...?)

So I have slept the majority of the afternoon, and now I can't sleep because my throat is RAW. I am exhausted. Guess I am going to try and count sheep or something.

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Music From The Edge: Stacey Q


One of my favorite artists from the 80's, Stacey Q, left her mark on the pop world with the hits "Two of Hearts" and "We Connect." Though the songs seem quite gentle in nature, "We Connect" as I came to realize a few years later was full of suggestive lyrics:

"We connect, when we're together
It's so perfect, boy you shock me with
your wide hot love, I start to overload,
I explode when we connect..."

Of course I thought (and still think) it says:

"We connect, when we're together
It's so perfect, boy you SHOOK ME WITH
YOUR WHITE HOT LOAD, I start to overload,
I explode when we connect..."

Guess you have to listen and figure it out for yourself...



Though often considered a one hit wonder, Ms. Q has had a very successful career in music, movies, and television. (You may remember her from Facts Of Life as Cinnamon, as herself in Full House, or on Mama's Family as Ciji [the blond] in the "Bone Crushers" - see below)





Alas, most of her success remained in the dance music scene. With the release of
"Nights Like This" (out of print) came the single release (1989) of "Give You All My Love" which peaked on Billboard's Hot Dance Music/Club Play @ #16 and on the Hot Dance Music/Maxi-Singles Sales Chart @ #8. Check out the video then sample the 12" mixes.




Give You All My Love (Crossover House Mix)
Give You All My Love (Crossover Club Mix)
Give You All My Love (Radio Edit)
Give You All My Love (Underground Mix)



Listen carefully - you will hear the distinctive voice of Martha Wash (Weather Girls/Black Box), and Jocelyn Brown (Snap [they stole her voice "I got the power" and Bizzare Inc. [who sampled her again, "I'm Gonna Get You"} and is most recently associated with Todd Terry)....also of note, this single was produced by the superduo David Cole and Robert Clivilles (of C+C Music Factory fame).


Ms. Q is still working! Rumour has it that there is a new CD in the works, and for those wondering what she looks like now......




If I hear more - I will let you all know!!
Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

I Kicked the Habit: Day 22

Well, I am happy to report that I have made it through 22 days - NICOTINE FREE!!! Interestingly enough, I thought it was going to be much harder than it was. Word on the street is that if you can make it past the first 21 days- then you can consider yourself FREE!!

So here's to my freedom. I hope that this is only the beginning of my life after nicotine!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Saturday, October 13, 2007

Comments anyone?

I have been watching my site numbers increase each and every week. With all of these new "unique" visitors to my blog, I have to wonder why no one makes any comments? I encourage everyone to leave me some feedback. How else will I know if I am just writing this for myself? I guess you could call it "needing to be reassured"

So, if you are kind enough to visit, just drop a simple "HI" in the comment section - or more if you'd like.

I am dying right now with allergies (funny - my brother and sister were always the ones with allergy issues - I never had them till this year and it sucks.)

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

V: The Second Generation




Could I be MORE excited????????? I was a HUGE fan of both V: The Miniseries and V: The Final Battle, and then the television series V. Growing up in the 80's I can remember that these miniseries were an unbelievable ratings success. Both miniseries aired during May sweeps and did so well that NBC ordered 19 episodes to bring it back as a television show...unfortunately, the TV show didn't do as well (it was on FRIDAY?!)....



























I never lost hope that some day there would be a major movie release based on the TV show or mini-series.....I figured - if I was still interested in this program, there were others (not to mention that all three are STILL available on DVD). Well, in a general search on Kenneth Johnson (the writer/producer/creator), I came across his new book: "V: The Second Generation", which is to be released on November 27, 2007.

I dug even deeper to find that Warner Brothers has been in talks to develop "V: The Second Generation" as a mini-series. (At this time, I can find no other information about the project, but I will assume that NBC will be first in line to pick it up - otherwise I would guess The SciFi Channel.) I am continuing to look for more information on this and will post it as soon as I get some responses.

For your enjoyment: Here is the opening credits from V: The Series



Here is a fan video of all things "V" including some great pictures of the symbols involved in the Visitors project.




At some point, I think I would love to talk about the symbolism in "V" and how it parallels with Nazi Germany. I am sure others have done this already, so I think I will need to do some more research.

So for now, keep your fingers crossed and keep watching here for future updates.

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Tuesday, October 09, 2007

Reconnecting

I started a new job recently. This is the second week - and I love it!!! Most would think that just starting a new job is enough. But this new job - it opened up some closed doors from my past. I had to submit a number of references, all former supervisors. I had some digging to do. It has been a while since I had connected with anyone from my employment past. The great thing was - I had a unique opportunity to RECONNECT with those that had an influence in my work life. Sadly, my mentor Rich has failed to return any calls, or respond to any emails that I have sent. (I know that he has just started a new job and moved to a new state - here in CHICAGO, so I am going to cut him some slack for now)....but everyone else has come through and helped to give my new employer a better picture of what they were getting. THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU. Well, re-connecting is a wonderful thing. I am so happy that I can now keep those that influenced me in my future. Such an awesome thing!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Friday, October 05, 2007

Twin Peaks




I am so excited! FINALLY - the ENTIRE SERIES of Twin Peaks will be available on DVD. I don't know how I missed the first season on DVD (and I was too mad to just buy season two), now I can have it ALL!!!! October 30.

My quest for the rest of the year will be to gather any and all TP memoribilia that I can find....

I used to have the "Secret Diary of Laura Palmer" by Jennifer Lynch, but I lent it to a friend after I read it - and never saw it again. BUMMER. So, I will begin my quest with my next paycheck - I have to do this economically......

SO if any of you run across any TP stuff....let me know! Most of you live in big cities - I am sure there is stuff out there!


And for your enjoyment - Here is the video from Julee Cruise "Falling"


And the original intro to the show!


Enjoy...and keep me posted!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Tuesday, October 02, 2007

I Kicked the Habit

MUSIC FROM THE EDGE: KD LANG

I hesitate to make this public at this time, but I am so proud of my success that I must brag a bit. I am now 7 days free from cigarettes!! Each day gets easier - and I quit COLD TURKEY. I really have no real cravings for the nastiness (though, I admit that the "habit" part is the hardest to deal with.)

So in honor of this accomplishment, I would love to offer two songs from one of my favorite CD's. But a bit of background first:


KD Lang decided in 1996 that she wanted to follow-up her success (with Ingenue '92 and All You Can Eat '95) with a concept CD about smoking. This CD became the amazing work of Drag (double entendre' emphasized). Sire, her label at the time was not happy with Ms. Lang's decision to do a CD of covers, especially covers that had the theme of "smoking." Ms. Lang was not to be deterred, and found a home with sister label Warner Brothers which promoted this concept album to the hilt.

Though the CD failed to bring KD back to the pop singles chart, the CD managed to peak on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart at #29 (her best outing since 1992's Ingenue which peaked at #18). It would be six years before Ms. Lang would find the critical acclaim for a concept album she was expecting with Drag (THE GRAMMY), alas KD Lang won the Grammy for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album in 2003 for her "A Wonderful World" CD which featured Tony Bennet.

SO on this special day, I give you two tracks that relate to you my mood on smoking now that I have "kicked the habit!"

My Last Cigarette

My Old Addiction

Please support KD Lang by purchasing her CD DRAG at AMAZON or at Itunes Trust me, it will be well worth the money spent!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Monday, October 01, 2007

Lost in the 80's: Olivia Newton-John



Meeting OLIVIA....she is so wonderful...I could not be a happier man!









I have to make mention of my friend John's famous blog "Lost in the 80's." He finally did me proud (he always does really) by giving Olivia Newton-John her due on his blog by including the great song "Electric" as a sample. Though I could have helped him with the research (surprised he didn't ask.... ), he did a great job with this post. So check him out and give him props. There is no one I know that knows more about the music from this great period in music than John... Totally AWESOME!


As a tribute to his blog post - here is the album cover (front and back) from the Soul Kiss album. As a 15 year old, gay boy in the making - this sealed the deal for my undying devotion to everything Olivia!




The top picture is from the back cover of the Soul Kiss album (taken by the famous Herb Ritts),- Olivia topless with a riding crop!!! It was amazing! While the second picture is the seductive cover for the ill-received Livvy album. Alas, this album wears very well over the years....it is in heavy rotation on my IPod, and is my second most-favorite ONJ album ever.

And not to forget that Olivia Newton-John is making her first appearance on PBS, premiering 10/2 on WLIW21 in NY and on other PBS stations in December, with her new special: "Olivia Newton-John: Live from Sydney"

Olivia has also began taping her new show on the LOGO channel called "Sordid Lives" based on the hugely popular festival film by the same name. 12 episodes have been ordered by LOGO and they are looking for a launch in early 2008.

Olivia also had the honor of being a part of the "Holiday Celebration at Ford's Theater" which will air on ABC in December





Finally, I have to mention that Olivia is still recording AMAZING music. Her current CD is titled "Grace and Gratitude" and was released in 2006 co-written by Amy Sky (who also collaborated with Livvy on the album "Rumor" released in 1988. You can download this CD at Itunes Olivia has also recorded another soon-to-be-released Christmas Album entitled "Christmas Wish"



SO....even though my dear friend John (and all of his infinite wisdom) has suggested that Livvy is in need of a comeback.....she's never really left! I will be posting some new rare tracks that are set to be released sometime soon...so be watching for my Music From the Edge posts....

UPDATE:
Thank you DJPault for your due dilligence in fact checking. You are correct about the photo credits on the front and back covers of the "Soul Kiss" album. The Herb Ritts photo was the inner spread from the album. The CD cover does not include this photo. I was not able to scan the "original" photo - but the 12" remix of Soul Kiss has the inner spread as its cover. So, thank you again for the correction - and for those wanting to see the Herb Ritts photo (which I have framed in my office because its SO HOT) ...here it is!



Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

The Busy Life!

Manic Monday! It has been an amazing two weeks! As most of you may, or may not know, I started a new job today! I am loving it - so different than what I have been doing for so many years! But this is the reason that I have been absent from the blog world as of late. I promise to return to the blogging world soon, I just need to get my bearings while trying to navigate this new job.....

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Out of the Mouths of Babes: In My Nephew's Own Words

My sister was so proud of her son, that she sent off to everyone one of his very first essays. I was so touched by his amazing level of intellect and empathy, I was moved to tears. My nephew is 12 years old and in the sixth grade, he is certainly growing up into such a wonderful, caring young man. I asked permission from my nephew and sister to reprint his essay, in his own words without any editing. I hope you find it as heartwarming and give you as much hope for the future as it did me. So without further adieu...................................

To Be A Doctor

When I’m old enough I’m going to be a doctor. I want to be a doctor because I want to save many different lives. I could go around the world and go to different countries. I’d also get standard equipment and a white coat. I’d be working in hospitals or possibly refugee camps in third world countries, or even a pharmacy.
To become a doctor it takes a lot of training and schooling. For starters, I’ll be a paramedic, but that takes about 6 months to 1 year of paramedic school. Then I’d probably be working in a pharmacy as a pharmacy technician and deal with medicines. Finally I’d become an E.R. doctor and really save lives.
When I’m an E.R. doctor I’d do a lot of work. I’ll be working on standard stuff like broken bones and minor illnesses. I’ll work on machines like the x-ray, the CAT scan and many more. I’d also work with surgeons to help them in surgery. I could probably be able to find out if something is a fake report of illness, or if something that happened to someone ties him or her to a crime. Finally pretty much the worst part is to write a report about anything major that happens in the hospital.
When I become a doctor, I will move out of the country. I’d move because the U.S.A. doesn’t have Universal Healthcare because I believe that everyone should have the right to treatment. There are only three countries I’d like to move to and they are, France, the U.K., or Canada. The only bad part is that I’d have to learn the history of the country and the language if it is different than mine.
If I get good enough I could help around the world. I’d probably get to go to the Middle East, Darfur, and/or go to where we are having a war. The reason why I’d probably go to one of these places is because they don’t have medical marvels. The only downer about this is I could get sick by an illness that is not common to my home country. Rarely, I could get in between a gunfight in a war scene.
When I get a lot of experience from being on an E.R. staff, I’d hope to accomplish a few things. First I would want to find a cure for a rare illness. Next, I would like to solve many different mystery diagnoses. Finally, I’d really like to be a major hero figure and role model to many different people. This is why I want to be a doctor.

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

While We Are On the Subject: Gay Marriage

I get a bit tired of hearing the debate about gay marriage. What is that all about? I mean, honestly.

I wanted to expand on my previous post where I stated, “Oftentimes, we have to look towards those that will “lead” and pull us out of archaic thinking that so often pervades our common views…

A perfect example of this was as recent as 1987, when the Supreme Court of the United States in “Turner v. Safley” when the Court had to decide what role marriage plays in American Law.

“After careful consideration, the justices outlined four ‘important attributes’ of marriage: First, they said, marriage represents an opportunity to make a public statement of commitment and love to another person, and an opportunity to receive public support for that commitment. Second, the justices said, marriage has for many people and important spiritual or religious dimension. Third, marriage offers the prospect of physical ‘consummation,’ which of course most of us call something else. And fourth, the justices said, marriage in the United States is the unique and indispensible gateway, the ‘precondition,’ for a vast array of protections, responsibilities, and benefits – public and private, tangible and intangible, legal and economic-that have real importance for real people…and after weighing these attributes, the justices ruled – in a unanimous decision that marriage is SUCH AN IMPORTANT CHOICE THAT IT MAY NOT BE ARBITRARILY DENIED BY THE GOVERNMENT [emphasis added]. Accordingly, they ordered that the government stop refusing marriage licenses to the group of Americans who had brought the case,” (Wolfson, 8).

This case involved the ability for prisoners to marry and what benefits this process would have for said prisoners. Interestingly, the Court never mentioned as one of the attributes that marriage must be between “a man and a woman.”

Evan Wolfson, in his book WHY MARRIAGE MATTERS makes yet another great argument when dealing with the “religious” aspects of marriage. He states, “In terms of marriage…for government purposes, what matters are not the long-planned, beautiful, and memorable religious ceremonies that are a part of many couples’ weddings, but the LEGAL PAPERS [emphasis added] those couples sign before and afterword. As joyous, spiritual, and important as the religious rites of marriage are for many couples, in our country the right to marry is, first and foremost, a legal matter that may or may not be witnessed by a religious officiant [sic] or celebrated by a religious ceremony, or performed by a judge or clerk in a civil ceremony, as the couple chooses,” (Wolfson, 105).

In this argument, Wolfson makes sure that the reader understands the difference between RITES (as in religious) and RIGHTS (as in governmental). The First Amendment of our Constitution demand the separation of church and state, which is why, if a couple wants to get married in front of a judge or clerk – they may do so and they still maintain all of the rights and responsibilities as those that choose to have their ceremony in a church, synagogue, mosque, et.al. There is NO difference from a LEGAL standpoint, though an argument can be made that there is a huge difference in the eyes of their religious beliefs.

This point of view is even held in high esteem by many in the religious community…. “The Union of American Hebrew Congregations, the Central Conference of American Rabbis, the Unitarian Universalist Association, and other denominations have spoken in support of civil-marriage equality…Reverend Peter Gomes of Harvard University’s Memorial Church explained in a speech at the Massachusetts Statehouse, ‘Religious views in these constitutional matters-no matter how deeply felt-are irrelevant,” (Wolfson, 107).

The Reverend’s words are profound and extremely daring…but they focus the attention back on the constitutional question of marriage, while leaving the religious implications at bay, since they have no place in the civil-marriage argument.

Next, I wish to deal with the how pervasive the religious right has polluted the issue of civil-marriage. In 2004, U.S. Representative Jim McDermott (D-WA), placed into the Congressional Record* what a Federal Biblical Marriage Amendment might look like (as many fervent religious followers believe in having God’s Law as the law of the land). Here is what it said:

‘Marriage shall consist of a union between one man and one or more women. That is from Genesis 29:17-28.
Secondly, marriage shall not impede a man’s right to take concubines in addition to his wife or wives. That is II Samuel 5:13 and II Chronicles 11:21.
A marriage shall be considered valid only if the wife is a virgin. If the wife is not a virgin, she shall be executed. That is Deuteronomy 22:13.
Marriage of a believer and a nonbeliever shall be forbidden. That is Genesis 24:3.
Finally, it says that since there is no law that can change things, divorce is not possible, and finally if a married man dies, his brother has to marry his sister-in-law.’

*Codifying “Biblical Principles” of Marriage, Congressional Record, February 25, 2004.

I felt it was important to include this piece, only because it illustrates the way an argument can be framed. I do not believe that the MAJORITY of religious followers even slightly agree with these tenets. But, if there are those that wish to bring the Bible into the secular society in order to deny a group of people the right to be civilly married, then these passages from the Bible must also be examined as a reason to change the law. You can’t have it both ways. If you want to object to gay marriage on religious grounds, then you must also accept that these passages are important in the foundational marriage rites according to the Bible, and live by them as well.

To the question of “why change the definition of marriage?” It is not anyone’s intent to change the definition of marriage (except perhaps the US Congress). As I stated in my previous post, the definition of marriage is INCLUSIVE, and not exclusive to just a man and a woman. Again, I refer to Wolfson (190), who puts it so elegantly: “Ending the exclusion of gay people from marriage would not change the ‘definition’ of marriage, but it would remove a discriminatory barrier from the path of people who have made a personal commitment to each other and are now ready and willing to take on the responsibilities and legal commitment of marriage.”

And finally……There were many times in our country’s history where people were denied the right to marry. “Previous chapters in American history have seen race discrimination in marriage (ended only in 1967), laws making wives legally inferior to husbands (changed as late as the 1970’s and 1980’s), resistance to allowing people to end failed or abusive marriages through divorce (fought over in the 1940s and 1950s), and even a refusal to allow married and unmarried people to make their own decisions about whether to use contraception or raise children (decided in 1965),” (Wolfson, 190).

So, yes, marriage has changed. It is not as it was in the days of the Bible, and it is not the same as it was as late as 1987. It has evolved as we as a nation have evolved. There is no reason to believe that this issue is any different. I have presented my point of view in response to what my brother Jimmy states. I love him dearly – we just see things from quite different perspectives. Though I disagree with my brother’s position – I still love him. I doubt we will ever see eye to eye on this, which is sad….but I want my relationship with my partner to be as equal (in a civil-marriage sense) as any married couple. But as they say, “separate but equal” by its very definition is NOT equal.
Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Monday, September 24, 2007

The Definition of "IS" "IS"

My brother has decided to present what the definition of “is” “is”. Based on the blog I presented earlier titled: “Breaking News: Change Can Happen,” my brother gave his viewpoint on the issue. Flawed as his view may be, he is entitled to it, but I have an opportunity to correct his errors:

Jimmy said:
“He was elected, at least in part, on his position and he has let down his constituency.”

Rebuttal:
Mayor Jerry Sanders was elected by his constituency to make decisions on the “behalf” of said constituency. This is a representative democracy, and there are times when decisions are made that are in the interest of society as a whole and go against what said constituency wishes to have. Oftentimes, we have to look towards those that will “lead” and pull us out of archaic thinking that so often pervades our common views. Leaders like Abe Lincoln, which gave us the Emancipation Proclamation, would be a good example of this practice.

Jimmy said:
“My opinion is that marriage is what marriage is. It has a clear definition (see below)...”
“Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1) - Cite This Source - Share This

mar•riage

Pronunciation [mar-ij]

–noun

1. the social institution under which a man and woman establish their decision to live as husband and wife by legal commitments, religious ceremonies, etc.
2. the state, condition, or relationship of being married; wedlock.
3. the legal or religious ceremony that formalizes the decision of a man and woman to live as husband and wife, including the accompanying social festivities.”
AND
"Basic meanings of words (especially foundational words) do not change over time...they just don't."

Rebuttal:
Interesting choice to use this “specific” online dictionary. Let us now see the ENTIRE picture…
mar•riage (măr'ĭj) n.
1.
a. The legal union of a man and woman as husband and wife.
b. The state of being married; wedlock.
c. A common-law marriage.
d. A union between two persons having the customary but usually not the legal force of marriage: a same-sex marriage.
2. A wedding.
3. A close union: “the most successful marriage of beauty and blood in mainstream comics” (Lloyd Rose).
4. Games. The combination of the king and queen of the same suit, as in pinochle.
[Middle English mariage, from Old French, from marier, to marry. See marry1.]
- http://www.answers.com/topic/marriage

mar•riage ˈmær ɪdʒ - Show Spelled Pronunciation[mar-ij] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation
–noun
1. the social institution under which a man and woman establish their decision to live as husband and wife by legal commitments, religious ceremonies, etc.
2. the state, condition, or relationship of being married; wedlock: a happy marriage.
3. the legal or religious ceremony that formalizes the decision of a man and woman to live as husband and wife, including the accompanying social festivities: to officiate at a marriage.
4. a relationship in which two people have pledged themselves to each other in the manner of a husband and wife, without legal sanction: trial marriage; homosexual marriage.
5. any close or intimate association or union: the marriage of words and music in a hit song.
6. a formal agreement between two companies or enterprises to combine operations, resources, etc., for mutual benefit; merger.
7. a blending or matching of different elements or components: The new lipstick is a beautiful marriage of fragrance and texture.
8. Cards. a meld of the king and queen of a suit, as in pinochle. Compare ROYAL MARRIAGE.
9. a piece of antique furniture assembled from components of two or more authentic pieces.
10. Obsolete. the formal declaration or contract by which act a man and a woman join in wedlock.

- http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/marriage

Main Entry: mar•riage
Pronunciation: 'mer-ij, 'ma-rij
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English mariage, from Anglo-French, from marier to marry
1 a (1) : the state of being united to a person of the opposite sex as husband or wife in a consensual and contractual relationship recognized by law (2) : the state of being united to a person of the same sex in a relationship like that of a traditional marriage b : the mutual relation of married persons : WEDLOCK c : the institution whereby individuals are joined in a marriage
2 : an act of marrying or the rite by which the married status is effected; especially : the wedding ceremony and attendant festivities or formalities
3 : an intimate or close union
-Merriam-Webster’s Online Dictionary

Jimmy failed to present the whole picture – which isn’t unusual, most people do this in order to make their point of view more salient.

Words do change in definition, or come to have more meaningful definitions over time. According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, we have what is called an ORDER OF SENSES. Here is the definition.
“The order of senses within an entry is historical: the sense known to have been first used in English is entered first. This is not to be taken to mean, however, that each sense of a multisense word developed from the immediately preceding sense. It is altogether possible that sense 1 of a word has given rise to sense 2 and sense 2 to sense 3, but frequently sense 2 and sense 3 may have arisen independently of one another from sense 1.
When a numbered sense is further subdivided into lettered subsenses, the inclusion of particular subsenses within a sense is based upon their semantic relationship to one another, but their order is likewise historical: subsense 1a is earlier than 1b, 1b is earlier than 1c, and so forth. Divisions of subsenses indicated by lightface numerals in parentheses are also in historical order with respect to one another. Subsenses may be out of historical order, however, with respect to the broader numbered senses”

Therefore, the definition of marriage DOES include "being united to a person of the same sex in a relationship” and can ABSOLUTELY be used in conjunction with the legal issues that may arise from said definition. Just because the U.S Congress arbitrarily decided to state that “marriage is between a man and a woman,” does not make it so.

Of note…
Marriage is an interpersonal relationship with governmental, social, or religious recognition, usually intimate and sexual, and often created as a contract, or through civil process.”

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Breaking News: Change Can Happen

It happens from time to time, and when it does - it is an amazing display of human compassion and humility. Republican Mayor Jerry Sanders of San Diego, CA reversed his stand against gay marriage in a press conference today, while choking back tears. He decided to "reflect and search [his] soul, and lead with [his] heart."



Amazing. Though I hate to say, "what a brave stand this is," (because I don't think it should have anything to do with bravery - but instead have to do with human dignity) - it actually IS a brave thing to stand against your own party, to change your mind when you know its the right thing to do.

Bravo Jerry Sanders. You have my vote. I am proud that you have decided to do the right thing and stand up against bigotry and hatred. Bravo.

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Sad Day In the USA

It is so good to know that free speech is alive and well in the United States of America - NOT!!! This UF student was forcibly removed, handcuffed, then TASERED for asking questions of John Kerry which had merit. The questions he asked were:

How could you concede the election?
Why don't we impeach Bush?
Are you a member of Skull and Bones?

The story, here, are not these questions- but the chilling reminder that we no longer live in a country where CIVIL DISOBEDIENCE is tolerated. Many feel this man should have just walked away and been submissive to the overzealous police, but I am mad as hell at what happened. People will remember this and think twice about standing up and speaking out. He was "arrested" for "Inciting a Riot". Are you kidding me????? This is unbelievable. Kerry should have spoke out and told the police to stand down. But he is a wimp. Unbelievable.

I watched this video a few times, from a few different sources and still cannot understand why this even happened. Sure the man was probably "out of line," and "not following proper etiquette"....since when does that rise to the level of "inciting a riot???"

View these for yourself.








Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Let's ENDA Discrimination!

Hi everyone. This is extremely important CIVIL RIGHTS legislation. Did you know, right now, that I could be FIRED for my job - just because I am gay (luckily I have chosen my companies well - but there are those bosses out there that would do this, don't you agree?) I am all for the free market, but I do believe that we should be protected from companies that would fire their employees simply because they are gay, lesbian, bisexual. (See Cracker Barrel)

It is a shame that we need this type of legislation at all, but we still are only in the 21st century....can't expect everyone to be enlightened!

There is rumor that the vote will be early next week. If you are unable to donate, please at least contact your congressional representative and urge them to support the passage of ENDA. If you would like to know more about ENDA I have enclosed links for you to check out.

http://www.thetaskforce.org/enda07/enda07.html

http://www.hrcactioncenter.org/campaign/enda

http://www.gay.com/news/article.html?2007/09/05/6

http://www.pflag.org/ENDA.enda.0.html

Here is the actual proposed legislation for those that like to read:
http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?c110:H.R.2015.IH:

And please don't underestimate the power of the extreme right....they are putting amazing mis-information out there on this issue.....just ask yourself, does this really ring true?

http://www.cultureandfamily.org/articledisplay.asp?id=2578&department=CFI&categoryid=papers

http://www.bpnews.net/BPFirstPerson.asp?ID=25676

(I love this one the best....because it says that I suffer from a "clinical self-delusion")
http://www.cwfa.org/articles/13852/CFI/freedom/index.htm

Remember, that it is up to the citizens of this country to make change happen. Everyone, regardless of where you stand on this issue, should contact their Congressional Representative and their Senators and have your voice heard. Believe it or not, they do listen (sometimes). I like to remember the saying "the squeaky wheel gets the grease."

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Monday, September 10, 2007

Britney Needs Me



This is a picture taken backstage after her concert at Nautica Stage, in Cleveland Summer 99. Britney was a different person then- so friendly, so kind, so genuine.

Ok, ok. I know you either saw the VMA's and Britney's performance - or you heard about it. Personally - I didn't think it was as bad as people are making it out to be. What is definitely obvious is that Britney is in need of some serious management consulting. I should be her manager (if you are reading this Britney - I am serious - I would!!)

Britney has no one watching out for her and her interests now. I know she screwed up at times, I know that she has what can only be assumed to be a melt-down, but honestly, she is simply living out her "teen" years as any teenager would do (which she was unable to do). Nonetheless, Britney is in need of a manager that has her best interest at heart and someone that will help to rebuild a great career that is simply stalled at the moment. Look me up Britney.

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Saturday, September 01, 2007

Driving the Interstate

As I am writing this, my partner is driving us on I-80 East on our way to visit my family back in Ohio. Through the miracle of wireless broadband (thank you Sprint), I am able to blog while he drives. It is amazing that we have come this far, in just a few years.

Let's just think about it. I joined AOL as a dial-up member in 1993. That was the only way to connect to the internet. I paid a PER HOUR fee - and I remember the first bill was unbelievably high. I was fascinated by the whole "chat" thing. At first I was nervous and scared, because the chat was happening so fast - and I couldn't respond quick enough (my typing skills at the time were seriously lacking). But I was determined to have my say in the chat rooms, so I quickly adapted to the new environment and improved my typing skills. This fascination led to longer online sessions, resulting in astronomical bills. But it was worth it.

Now. 2007. AOL is free, the internet is nothing like we imagined 17 years ago, and I am BLOGGING while sitting in the passenger seat of a moving car going 65 miles an hour down the highway. It is amazing to me how far we have come in the realm of technology.

My question remains: If we can do SO MUCH to change our future through technology, why can't we use this knowledge and inginuity to move us away from things like: war, poverty, famine, disease.

Leave it to me to make a blog post about "bloggin on the highway" to an issue about global concerns. I love myself!!

Peace.Love.Live.
JPB

Thursday, August 23, 2007

Dick Cheney: Always remember what you say

I was listening to the radio the other day when I heard a clip of Dick Cheney talking about the war in Iraq. What I didn't know at the time was, this clip was taken from a C-SPAN interview with Cheney back on April 15, 1994. He was asked why we did not go into Baghdad during the first Gulf War and take out Saddam.

His answer is surprising. Or not surprising - depending on how you look at things. He stated that "not many American lives" were worth being lost in order to topple the Saddam regime. He also stated that it would be a "quagmire."

So here is the video so you can see for yourself:



So what changed between 4/15/2004 and when we actually toppled the Saddam regime that made it worth those American lives?

I found his comments to be quite prophetic. He KNEW what he was talking about, and I AGREED with him then (and agree with this position still today). What I don't understand is why his opinion changed, every thing he said has come true. This man is nothing more than an opportunist, a liar, a war-hawk, and has, along with this administration, put our soldiers in harms way for a war HE KNEW was unwinnable, a war HE KNEW would turn into a "quagmire." This is ONE of the reasons why I support his impeachment.

Comments are appriciated.

Peace.Live.Love.
JPB