It all started with an idea, a concert sign, and a dream. Arriving in Atlantic City a day early for the June 24th Taylor Hicks concert at the House of Blues, I asked one of my travel buddies to create a sign that I could take to the show. This idea came to me when I heard Taylor’s backup singer would not be on this leg of the tour.
Taking a Gamble on Taylor Hicks in Atlantic City Definitely Paid Off
Taking a Gamble on Taylor Hicks in Atlantic City Definitely Paid Off
I wanted a sign that read, "Taylor’s New Backup Singer" with a big red arrow pointing downward that would, when held over my head, point right to me. Mind you this was to be ‘just for laughs’ but at four o’clock in the morning, while we were up preparing for the concert like excited teenagers, my friend asked what I would do if Taylor Hicks actually called me up on stage to sing. I laughed hysterically and brushed it off as impossible, never in a million years could she be right…
***
But it did plant a seed of hope. The next evening things got off to a great start. Not only was I carded by security at the House of Blues, which simply made my day, but I also ended up right in front at the stage thanks to two new friends who held a place for me and guarded it with their lives. Now armed with my trusty sign and the perfect spot, I was ready for a fantastic show.
After Mr. Hicks’ opening number I figured that was my chance so I held up my sign and called out his name. He stopped and read it, smiled and went over to his microphone to say, “I’ll think about it”, in that Elvis-like southern drawl.
***
Right then and there I would’ve been satisfied…but it gets better. After Hicks sang a few more hits, consisting of his pre-Idol standards such as “Heart and Soul” and “Hell Of A Day” coupled with fantastic covers of Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick In the Wall” and Rod Stewart’s “Young Turks”, I figured I was not going to get my wish. But in a last attempt I raised my sign once more, during a quiet moment between songs, and cleared my throat loudly.
Hicks looked over at me again and asked, “Well, can you sing?”
My buddies vouched for my singing ability, even though they’ve never heard me squeak out a real note. Then I thought about how I had just been screaming and singing along at the top of my lungs throughout the entire concert and wondered well, can I?
He then replied, “You never know what you’ll get if you only ask.”
***
That was enough for me to pull out my digital camera so I could have the video setting ready to roll—just in case. I had snuck the camera into the venue, only to not have much luck getting around the camera Nazis in yellow polo shirts to snap one picture. But there was no way I was not going to video this event…if it actually were to take place.
The concert continued as I waited with bated breath, but once I heard the distinct opening drum line of “The Runaround” I knew that would be the last song of the show. I decided to be satisfied with at least having my sign acknowledged, and grateful for the shout-outs from Hicks.
Then, halfway through the song he made his way to my side of the stage and signaled me to come up!
My heart stopped.
***
Of course I immediately went into panic mode, my buddy and I fumbling the camera between us in a strained effort just to turn it on, all while Hicks stood over us wearing an amused look of “are you comin’ or not?” Finally I managed to make my way through the crowd and took off for the back entrance of the stage.
The House of Blues should provide their security team with a hefty raise due to them giving me the hardest time in allowing me on stage, even after Hicks himself invite me. So there I stood, negotiating with two wet-behind-the-ears college boys who by then I had upgraded to Camera and Security Nazis while Taylor and the band, I’m told, were looking around for me to show up on the stage from somewhere—anywhere.
Eventually I decided to ignore security altogether and ran back towards the stage. I jumped up on the barricade step and realized there was at least a two-foot gap between the chest-high stage and me. There was no way I could vault myself that far without breaking or dislocating a major part of my anatomy. Fans behind me were yelling ‘jump!’ and as I argued that it was impossible to do, Taylor Hicks himself came over and extended his hand to help me up—chivalry does live! When he saw how terrified I was he took me by both hands and yanked me up onstage with the help of the wonderful fans behind me (a big thank you to those who groped my rear to assure my safe flight).
***
I must give major kudos to Taylor Hicks. It takes guts to pull a fan from the audience to perform with you for a number of reasons: first being not knowing for sure if that fan can actually carrying a tune and second, the possibility of that fan being a psycho who could attempt to carry out unmentionable acts with the presented opportunity. I believe Hicks had more faith in my not being a physical threat than my ability to sing, and he stood very near to hear a few notes before grinning a mile wide at the audience and exclaiming “She can sing!”
Now I understand why Hicks lives for life ‘on the road’. My being on stage in front of fans actually cheering for me was an incredible rush. At first I was nervous enough to pass out but he made me feel right at home and I was able to toss the nerves and try my best to keep up with him. Somehow, surprisingly, Hicks and I ‘doing the bump’ even snuck its way into the impromptu performance. I’m not sure what or who was the culprit but he was in an even better mood than usual! I’ve always enjoyed Hicks’ concerts and he seems to have the best times of his life onstage, but Sunday night was above and beyond anything I’m sure any of his fans have ever witnessed.
***
You can view the full video of my stage debut (courtesy of EJ) here on YouTube:
The band, as always, was flawless. Loren Gold (keyboards), Brian Gallagher (saxophone/flute/percussion), Felix ‘D-Kat’ Pollard (drums), Al ‘Boogie’ Carty (bass) and Josh Smith (guitar) – those boys carry Taylor Hicks and do it effortlessly. There have been several times when I’ve stood in awe at what flows from their instruments, and I’m sure that night Smith caught me in the front row with my mouth dropped open—he amazes me, and I haven’t been this fascinated by a guitarist since Brian May of Queen. Musicians are captivating as a whole, and I still don’t understand how I have tried my hand at every instrument known to man and never succeeded at any of them…where was I when God was imparting instrumental talents?
Whether dressed in a suit jacket or T-shirt and jeans, Taylor Hicks makes his audience feel at home. And the more concerts a fan attends the more of a family reunion vibe he sets; always super-charged on a musical high and hell-bent on giving us a good time. Full of surprises, you never know what you will get at his shows, which is what I look forward to the most with every one I attend.
I am still waiting for Hicks to cover “Baby Hold On” by Eddie Money. I’ve been asking for a while now, maybe he’ll make that second dream of mine come true as well?
Maybe I’ll make another sign…
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
American Idol host hits the big screen
NEW YORK - Ryan Seacrest is known as a lot of things - slick "American Idol" ringmaster, hotshot radio deejay, ubiquitous E! channel host - but funny guy's not one of them. Which makes his scene-stealing cameo in "Knocked Up" such an amusing surprise.
Even more so because he's the butt of the joke.
Seacrest sends up his pompous image in the Judd Apatow-directed comedy about an ambitious entertainment reporter (Katherine Heigl) whose life is flipped when she learns she is pregnant. She takes her job seriously at E! Entertainment Television - but not as seriously as the film-version Seacrest, who launches into a riotous rant during a scene that lasts barely two minutes.
Seacrest, playing himself, becomes ticked off on the set when Jessica Simpson throws off his busy schedule by arriving at her leisure for an interview.
He angrily suggests that maybe he'll retaliate by asking for her thoughts on an "exit strategy" in the Middle East.
"I don't understand the young talent in this town," the movie Seacrest goes on. "It doesn't make any sense. I got four jobs - hell, I'm more famous than half the people we talk to anyway!"
The rant then escalates into an R-rated diatribe with Seacrest dropping the F-bomb and denouncing the superficial workings of the entertainment industry. The apoplectic host finally has to be ushered into the green room with a promise of a cookie in an effort to calm him down.
Seacrest is not nearly as divalike in real life. ... Or is he?
At the beginning of a recent telephone interview with The Associated Press, the 32-year-old took a moment to jokingly exercise his authority: "Hang on one second - "Linda, WHERE'S MY LUNCH?! ... Sorry, just kidding," he deadpanned, back on the phone.
Seacrest, whose poker-faced demeanor during those ominous "Idol" elimination shows was spoofed recently on "Saturday Night Live," said he relished exposing his not-so-serious side in "Knocked Up."
"Oh, I love it! I don't mind being the butt of the joke. ... It doesn't really bother me. I quite enjoy it," said Seacrest.
Even more so because he's the butt of the joke.
Seacrest sends up his pompous image in the Judd Apatow-directed comedy about an ambitious entertainment reporter (Katherine Heigl) whose life is flipped when she learns she is pregnant. She takes her job seriously at E! Entertainment Television - but not as seriously as the film-version Seacrest, who launches into a riotous rant during a scene that lasts barely two minutes.
Seacrest, playing himself, becomes ticked off on the set when Jessica Simpson throws off his busy schedule by arriving at her leisure for an interview.
He angrily suggests that maybe he'll retaliate by asking for her thoughts on an "exit strategy" in the Middle East.
"I don't understand the young talent in this town," the movie Seacrest goes on. "It doesn't make any sense. I got four jobs - hell, I'm more famous than half the people we talk to anyway!"
The rant then escalates into an R-rated diatribe with Seacrest dropping the F-bomb and denouncing the superficial workings of the entertainment industry. The apoplectic host finally has to be ushered into the green room with a promise of a cookie in an effort to calm him down.
Seacrest is not nearly as divalike in real life. ... Or is he?
At the beginning of a recent telephone interview with The Associated Press, the 32-year-old took a moment to jokingly exercise his authority: "Hang on one second - "Linda, WHERE'S MY LUNCH?! ... Sorry, just kidding," he deadpanned, back on the phone.
Seacrest, whose poker-faced demeanor during those ominous "Idol" elimination shows was spoofed recently on "Saturday Night Live," said he relished exposing his not-so-serious side in "Knocked Up."
"Oh, I love it! I don't mind being the butt of the joke. ... It doesn't really bother me. I quite enjoy it," said Seacrest.
Movie debut for American Idol star
Katharine McPhee, the runner-up on last year's series of 'American Idol', is to make her movie debut in a "dark romantic comedy" called 'The Last Caller'.
The Hollywood Reporter says the film is a coming-of-age story about a self-obsessed woman (McPhee) looking for love and meaning in her life.
Shooting on the film is due to begin in the autumn in the New York area.
McPhee released her debut solo album earlier this year.
The Hollywood Reporter says the film is a coming-of-age story about a self-obsessed woman (McPhee) looking for love and meaning in her life.
Shooting on the film is due to begin in the autumn in the New York area.
McPhee released her debut solo album earlier this year.
American Idol Taylor Hicks & Caroline Lyders Love Triangle
Caroline Lyders and American Idol Taylor Hicks may have a very good reason for the "just friends" mantra they dished out after being spotted getting cozy on a beach in Hawaii. Lyders the co-anchor of the weekday edition of WISN 12 News This Morning has a longtime boyfriend, insurance businessman Aaron Ruffcorn, reports Star magazine. Is Taylor Hicks the 'other man'? Is Taylor Hicks singing on the cheating side of town?
American Idol Taylor Hicks & Caroline Lyders Love Triangle
American Idol Taylor Hicks & Caroline Lyders Love Triangle
Quite the buzz was created when the "American Idol" winner was recently photographed with a bikini clad Lyders, The two insisted they were just friends — but they were later spotted smooching in a more-than-friendly way. They looked cute together.
***
But that hit a sour note with Lyders’ fella. “[Lyders] was with our family for the [Christmas] holiday and we all had a lot of fun,” Ruffcorn’s father Michael told the tab. “I know they have been talking about marriage for some time.” The two have known each other since high school, reports MSNBC.
His mother told Star that the two are currently dating, but Ruffcorn himself seems less certain. “There is nothing but love and respect between Caroline and myself,” he told the tab. “There is a lot of history between us; all decisions we make are together. Whether there’s a future for Caroline and Taylor, I don’t know. As to whether there’s still a future [for us] at this point, stranger things have happened."
American Idol Taylor Hicks & Caroline Lyders Love Triangle
American Idol Taylor Hicks & Caroline Lyders Love Triangle
Quite the buzz was created when the "American Idol" winner was recently photographed with a bikini clad Lyders, The two insisted they were just friends — but they were later spotted smooching in a more-than-friendly way. They looked cute together.
***
But that hit a sour note with Lyders’ fella. “[Lyders] was with our family for the [Christmas] holiday and we all had a lot of fun,” Ruffcorn’s father Michael told the tab. “I know they have been talking about marriage for some time.” The two have known each other since high school, reports MSNBC.
His mother told Star that the two are currently dating, but Ruffcorn himself seems less certain. “There is nothing but love and respect between Caroline and myself,” he told the tab. “There is a lot of history between us; all decisions we make are together. Whether there’s a future for Caroline and Taylor, I don’t know. As to whether there’s still a future [for us] at this point, stranger things have happened."
American Idol Carrie Underwood Fans Emailed By Hacker
Country singer and former American Idol winner Carrie Underwood's page on online networking website MySpace.com has been hacked by a mobile phone ringtone promotion.
Over the last 24 hours, fans of the American star have been receiving emails claiming to be from Underwood herself, urging them to check out "these amazing free ringtones", reports website Tmz.com.
The spam emails read: "Hey, this is Carrie Underwood. Ok here's the deal, I need every single MySpace friend to stop what he/she's doing and go here right now and put your cell # in. You'll receive every ringtone from every myspace artist (including my favourites)..."
Underwood's management have been made aware of the hack.
Over the last 24 hours, fans of the American star have been receiving emails claiming to be from Underwood herself, urging them to check out "these amazing free ringtones", reports website Tmz.com.
The spam emails read: "Hey, this is Carrie Underwood. Ok here's the deal, I need every single MySpace friend to stop what he/she's doing and go here right now and put your cell # in. You'll receive every ringtone from every myspace artist (including my favourites)..."
Underwood's management have been made aware of the hack.
Who Needs American Idol?: Timberlake Label Signs YouTube Phenom
Dutch teenager Esmee Denters, who shot up the Web video charts last year with cover renditions of songs by Beyoncé, Alanis Morrisette and Alicia Keys, is the first musician to be signed by Justin Timberlake's nascent imprint Tennman Records.
Denters, who used a simple Web cam to shoot the clips of herself, has racked up over 21 million views on the 59 videos she has posted on the site. Most recently -- perhaps having signed on already -- she posted a clip of herself singing Timberlake's "What Goes Around." People mag quotes Timberlake as calling her "the real deal," and gives some details of what's now to follow:
An album she will write and record is slated for release later this year, and this month she will kick off a concert tour, mostly in Scandinavia.
"Words can't describe how amazing it is. I am so excited!" Denters says in a statement. "It is something I have always dreamed of doing. I have to thank YouTube and its viewers for giving me the opportunity to show the world my voice. I also have to thank Justin, one of the biggest artists in the world, for believing in me and making my dreams come true."
Denters, who used a simple Web cam to shoot the clips of herself, has racked up over 21 million views on the 59 videos she has posted on the site. Most recently -- perhaps having signed on already -- she posted a clip of herself singing Timberlake's "What Goes Around." People mag quotes Timberlake as calling her "the real deal," and gives some details of what's now to follow:
An album she will write and record is slated for release later this year, and this month she will kick off a concert tour, mostly in Scandinavia.
"Words can't describe how amazing it is. I am so excited!" Denters says in a statement. "It is something I have always dreamed of doing. I have to thank YouTube and its viewers for giving me the opportunity to show the world my voice. I also have to thank Justin, one of the biggest artists in the world, for believing in me and making my dreams come true."
Film for 'Idol's' McPhee
Season five "American Idol" runner-up Katharine McPhee will make her feature-film debut in the indie romantic comedy "The Last Caller," Zap2it.com reports.
According to the Hollywood Reporter, "The Last Caller" is budgeted for $5 million to $8 million. Production will begin this fall in and around New York. The film will focus on a self-obsessed woman (Miss McPhee) looking for "love, hope and meaning" in the big city. Miss McPhee's role won't involve any singing, the trade publication says.
Peter to play pope
Peter O'Toole will follow his Oscar-nominated turn in "Venus" by playing Pope Paul III on Showtime's "The Tudors," Variety reports.
The legendary actor has booked a seven-episode arc on the second season of the cable network's successful freshman drama. The season two story line will pit Mr. O'Toole's pontiff against Jonathan Rhys Meyers' Henry VIII.
"Peter O'Toole is the holy grail for 'The Tudors,' " Showtime Entertainment President Robert Greenblatt told Daily Variety via e-mail.
Mr. Greenblatt noted that though Mr. O'Toole has appeared in TV miniseries before, this will mark the actor's first regular role in a recurring series.
Interestingly, Mr. O'Toole has played a King Henry before in two movies — but not a Tudor king. He played Henry II in 1964's "Becket" and 1968's "The Lion in Winter."
Also joining the Showtime roster: Keith Carradine, who will be on "Dexter" as a series regular. He'll play an FBI agent who comes to investigate a series of murders that turn out to be the work of the show's title character (Michael C. Hall). He'll end up romantically involved with Dexter's sister (Jennifer Carpenter). Mr. Carradine's recent TV work includes a role as Wild Bill Hickok on HBO's "Deadwood."
According to the Hollywood Reporter, "The Last Caller" is budgeted for $5 million to $8 million. Production will begin this fall in and around New York. The film will focus on a self-obsessed woman (Miss McPhee) looking for "love, hope and meaning" in the big city. Miss McPhee's role won't involve any singing, the trade publication says.
Peter to play pope
Peter O'Toole will follow his Oscar-nominated turn in "Venus" by playing Pope Paul III on Showtime's "The Tudors," Variety reports.
The legendary actor has booked a seven-episode arc on the second season of the cable network's successful freshman drama. The season two story line will pit Mr. O'Toole's pontiff against Jonathan Rhys Meyers' Henry VIII.
"Peter O'Toole is the holy grail for 'The Tudors,' " Showtime Entertainment President Robert Greenblatt told Daily Variety via e-mail.
Mr. Greenblatt noted that though Mr. O'Toole has appeared in TV miniseries before, this will mark the actor's first regular role in a recurring series.
Interestingly, Mr. O'Toole has played a King Henry before in two movies — but not a Tudor king. He played Henry II in 1964's "Becket" and 1968's "The Lion in Winter."
Also joining the Showtime roster: Keith Carradine, who will be on "Dexter" as a series regular. He'll play an FBI agent who comes to investigate a series of murders that turn out to be the work of the show's title character (Michael C. Hall). He'll end up romantically involved with Dexter's sister (Jennifer Carpenter). Mr. Carradine's recent TV work includes a role as Wild Bill Hickok on HBO's "Deadwood."
County fair features former ‘Idol’ contestant
PROCTORVILLE — This year’s entertainment lineup at the Lawrence County Fair will feature a few of the traditional mainstays and a country music singer known for her “Red High Heels.”
“We think the music keeps getting better and better,” said Lou Anne Capper, one of the fair’s organizers.
Unlike previous years, Capper said the entertainment is being geared toward the younger generation with acts like a motocross exhibit, demolition derby and even a performance by a former American Idol contestant.
“We are trying to get the younger crowd a lot more excited about the entertainment and we think it is working,” Capper said.
The fair kicks off Saturday, July 7, with a demolition derby beginning at 8 p.m. The following night, on Sunday, there will be motocross at 8 p.m. On Monday, July 9, a kiddie tractor pull will be presented at 6 p.m., followed by a traditional tractor pull at 7:30 p.m. There will be a “daredevil thrill show” featuring the Imperial Stunt Drivers at 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 10, followed by a small car demolition derby at 8 p.m. Wednesday.
The entertainment headliner of the fair will be country music singer Kellie Pickler, who will perform at 8 p.m. Thursday, July 12. She has is known for her hit songs “Red High Heels” and “I Wonder,” which she performed during her stint last year on the popular television show “American Idol.”
At 8 p.m., on Friday, July 13, there will be bull riding. The fair will wrap up the following night, July 14, with another demolition derby at 7:30 p.m.
Rains have dampened the entertainment in the past. Last year, heavy downpours led to the cancellation and delay of some of the fair events. Hopefully, Capper said, that won’t happen this year.
“We are hoping that (week) will be the one drought week we have,” she said with a laugh. “But, it never seems to work out that way.”
“We think the music keeps getting better and better,” said Lou Anne Capper, one of the fair’s organizers.
Unlike previous years, Capper said the entertainment is being geared toward the younger generation with acts like a motocross exhibit, demolition derby and even a performance by a former American Idol contestant.
“We are trying to get the younger crowd a lot more excited about the entertainment and we think it is working,” Capper said.
The fair kicks off Saturday, July 7, with a demolition derby beginning at 8 p.m. The following night, on Sunday, there will be motocross at 8 p.m. On Monday, July 9, a kiddie tractor pull will be presented at 6 p.m., followed by a traditional tractor pull at 7:30 p.m. There will be a “daredevil thrill show” featuring the Imperial Stunt Drivers at 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 10, followed by a small car demolition derby at 8 p.m. Wednesday.
The entertainment headliner of the fair will be country music singer Kellie Pickler, who will perform at 8 p.m. Thursday, July 12. She has is known for her hit songs “Red High Heels” and “I Wonder,” which she performed during her stint last year on the popular television show “American Idol.”
At 8 p.m., on Friday, July 13, there will be bull riding. The fair will wrap up the following night, July 14, with another demolition derby at 7:30 p.m.
Rains have dampened the entertainment in the past. Last year, heavy downpours led to the cancellation and delay of some of the fair events. Hopefully, Capper said, that won’t happen this year.
“We are hoping that (week) will be the one drought week we have,” she said with a laugh. “But, it never seems to work out that way.”
Reality shows invade TV tonight
Honestly, the week following the "American Idol" season finale almost landed me in rehab. Initially, I stared at the TV blankly, with my eyes glazed over and my mind desperate for its fix of questionable talent and incoherent criticism.
Thankfully, I'm better now.
That's because I've found summer's new crop of reality TV shows. Sure, they slightly lack the widespread commercial appeal of "Idol," but you'll nonetheless find a train-wreck appeal strong enough to feed your habit.
Consider tonight's TV schedule.
First, there's "So You Think You Can Dance" (8 p.m., FOX). Don't let the title fool you — this guilty pleasure is a little bit "Dancing with the Stars," a little bit "American Idol" and a little bit "Jerry Springer Show." (But not the real Jerry Springer. He's on "America's Got Talent." On Wednesdays.) Anyway, "So You Think You Can Dance" is still in its preliminary rounds, and tonight the remaining contenders hit Vegas in hopes of being named a finalist. Dancers include a chick with a prosthetic arm, the sister of last year's winner and a guy who's allegedly been hiccuping for seven years. Let the games begin.
Not into fancy footwork? Check out "The Next Big Thing" (8 p.m., ABC). This show is all about finding "the greatest celebrity impersonator." Because I have no life, I actually watched the premiere episode last week, when contestants impersonated everyone from Bill Cosby to Dolly Parton. Let's just say the show is one Cher impersonation away from a weekend in Vegas.
Finally, the night wraps up with "American Inventor" (9 p.m., ABC), the search for America's best inventor. With luck, this season's winner will invent a cure for a bad case of reality TV withdrawal.
Thankfully, I'm better now.
That's because I've found summer's new crop of reality TV shows. Sure, they slightly lack the widespread commercial appeal of "Idol," but you'll nonetheless find a train-wreck appeal strong enough to feed your habit.
Consider tonight's TV schedule.
First, there's "So You Think You Can Dance" (8 p.m., FOX). Don't let the title fool you — this guilty pleasure is a little bit "Dancing with the Stars," a little bit "American Idol" and a little bit "Jerry Springer Show." (But not the real Jerry Springer. He's on "America's Got Talent." On Wednesdays.) Anyway, "So You Think You Can Dance" is still in its preliminary rounds, and tonight the remaining contenders hit Vegas in hopes of being named a finalist. Dancers include a chick with a prosthetic arm, the sister of last year's winner and a guy who's allegedly been hiccuping for seven years. Let the games begin.
Not into fancy footwork? Check out "The Next Big Thing" (8 p.m., ABC). This show is all about finding "the greatest celebrity impersonator." Because I have no life, I actually watched the premiere episode last week, when contestants impersonated everyone from Bill Cosby to Dolly Parton. Let's just say the show is one Cher impersonation away from a weekend in Vegas.
Finally, the night wraps up with "American Inventor" (9 p.m., ABC), the search for America's best inventor. With luck, this season's winner will invent a cure for a bad case of reality TV withdrawal.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
American Idol Host Ryan Seacrest Mocks Jessica Simpson at the Movies
American Idol judge Ryan Seacrest has a lot of jobs. Over the weekend the host had a bit of fun at his own expense and at pop tart Jessica Simpson's as well. That is - if you were one of the many folks that caught the hilarious and highly recommended new romantic comedy 'Knocked Up. His scene-stealing cameo in the film is priceless in a movie filled with laughs.
Katherine Heigl plays an E! Televison reporter and of course that's one of the many jobs Ryan has in real life. The Associated Press has this recap:
***
Seacrest, playing himself, becomes ticked off on the set when Jessica Simpson throws off his busy schedule by arriving at her leisure for an interview. He angrily suggests that maybe he'll retaliate by asking for her thoughts on an "exit strategy" in the Middle East.
"I don't understand the young talent in this town," the movie Seacrest goes on. "It doesn't make any sense. I got four jobs — hell, I'm more famous than half the people we talk to anyway!"
The rant then escalates into an R-rated diatribe with Seacrest dropping the F-bomb and denouncing the superficial workings of the entertainment industry. The apoplectic host finally has to be ushered into the green room with a promise of a cookie in an effort to calm him down.
***
It was classic. For the record, Jess never shows in that scene but does have a cameo later on the red carpet.
Katherine Heigl plays an E! Televison reporter and of course that's one of the many jobs Ryan has in real life. The Associated Press has this recap:
***
Seacrest, playing himself, becomes ticked off on the set when Jessica Simpson throws off his busy schedule by arriving at her leisure for an interview. He angrily suggests that maybe he'll retaliate by asking for her thoughts on an "exit strategy" in the Middle East.
"I don't understand the young talent in this town," the movie Seacrest goes on. "It doesn't make any sense. I got four jobs — hell, I'm more famous than half the people we talk to anyway!"
The rant then escalates into an R-rated diatribe with Seacrest dropping the F-bomb and denouncing the superficial workings of the entertainment industry. The apoplectic host finally has to be ushered into the green room with a promise of a cookie in an effort to calm him down.
***
It was classic. For the record, Jess never shows in that scene but does have a cameo later on the red carpet.
American Idol's Katherine McPhee to star in indie film
Katherine McPhee, season 5's American Idol runner-up, has signed on to star in an independent film, entitled “The Last Caller”. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the film is “a coming-of-age tale about a self-obsessed woman (McPhee) who searches for love, hope and meaning during a few random events with other urban seekers.”
The film is supposedly a dark romantic comedy, which is probably the reason the film is independent (big-budget Hollywood romantic comedies tend to be of the “light” variety). This will be the first starring role for McPhee, who has acted before on stage and has appeared in one film, the 2006 movie “Crazy”.
“The Last Caller” was written Michael Albanese, whose only IMDB credits are for directing seven episodes of the 1981 talk show, “Signature”. Wonder where he's been all these years. McPhee is taking a risk with this career move, some might say, because starring in a small independent film could be off-putting for her fan base, depending on the content.
This will be the first big film project for any former Idol since the abomination that was “From Justin 2 Kelly”. Frankly, of all the former Idol contestants, Kat McPhee is probably the best suited for a film/acting career. She has a history on stage, she is young, her music career isn't so successful that acting isn't worth a shot and, well, she's really attractive. Pretty good combo.
Independent films are more or less a crap shoot, however, and McPhee probably isn't a big enough celebrity to give the film a ton of exposure on her own. It's going to have to stand on its own merits.
By the way, if you were one of the lucky people to see Knocked Up this weekend, you were treated to a hilariously self-deprecating cameo by Ryan Seacrest. We're not going to ruin it for anyone who hasn't seen it, but it's good.
The film is supposedly a dark romantic comedy, which is probably the reason the film is independent (big-budget Hollywood romantic comedies tend to be of the “light” variety). This will be the first starring role for McPhee, who has acted before on stage and has appeared in one film, the 2006 movie “Crazy”.
“The Last Caller” was written Michael Albanese, whose only IMDB credits are for directing seven episodes of the 1981 talk show, “Signature”. Wonder where he's been all these years. McPhee is taking a risk with this career move, some might say, because starring in a small independent film could be off-putting for her fan base, depending on the content.
This will be the first big film project for any former Idol since the abomination that was “From Justin 2 Kelly”. Frankly, of all the former Idol contestants, Kat McPhee is probably the best suited for a film/acting career. She has a history on stage, she is young, her music career isn't so successful that acting isn't worth a shot and, well, she's really attractive. Pretty good combo.
Independent films are more or less a crap shoot, however, and McPhee probably isn't a big enough celebrity to give the film a ton of exposure on her own. It's going to have to stand on its own merits.
By the way, if you were one of the lucky people to see Knocked Up this weekend, you were treated to a hilariously self-deprecating cameo by Ryan Seacrest. We're not going to ruin it for anyone who hasn't seen it, but it's good.
Paula Abdul gushes that judging 'American Idol' is her "purpose in life"
American Idol has helped numerous singers find their path in life, and apparently its done the same for judge Paula Abdul.
"I didn't find out my purpose in life until American Idol," said Abdul in the June 11 issue of OK! Weekly. "I knew since I was a little girl that I had this profound way of touching people. My purpose is bringing out everybody's best and being that cheerleader to other people's success."
The revelation by the 45-year-old that she hadn't found her place in life until Idol's 2002 premiere could be considered somewhat surprising since her career as a dancer, choreographer and singer were all established prior to that. She initially gained notoriety working as a Los Angeles Lakers' Laker Girl and becoming the eventual choreographer for the group. She then went on to choreograph music videos for numerous artists, from Duran Duran and Dolly Parton to Janet Jackson and INXS. As a pop-star in the 1980s, Abdul sang numerous hits, including "Opposites Attract," "Forever Your Girl," "Rush, Rush" and "Crazy Cool." "Opposites Attract"'s music video won Abdul a 1991 Grammy Award for best short form music video.
"I've had three separate careers and shots at superstardom, the third time around with this show. Being a judge on American Idol overshadows being a Grammy Award winner and selling millions of records," she told OK!.
While appearing as an Idol judge may have been a blessing for Abdul, it's also made her life more hectic than ever. Her Bravo docu-reality series Hey Paula! is scheduled to premiere June 28; she's producing her new Bratz: The Movie project; she's developed her own line of perfumes and cosmetics; has her own originally-designed jewelry line; markets a clothing line she started; and also makes numerous personal appearances.
"If I appear exhausted on television, it's because I am!" Abdul told OK!. "I have a lot of sleepless nights because I'm in so much pain. I was taking far more medications on earlier seasons [of Idol], and nobody said anything. I try to say something and I stumble, and that's what people have picked up on. I'm not polished."
In April 2005, Abdul revealed she suffers from a rare neurological disorder called complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), which causes the chronic pain she feels.
"I have had Botox injections in my neck to numb the nerves but it didn't really work. I had three injections in eight years," Abdul told OK!. "I inject myself with a shot of Humira every two weeks, which is very helpful. I also use Enbrel [which like Humira can be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis], Relafan [an anti-inflamatory drug] and the painkiller lidocaine. Two or three times a week I have a specialist message to calm the nervous system. I see an acupuncture specialist who deals in head and spinal-cord trauma."
She's also bee diagnosed with reflex sympathetic dystrophy, a chronic condition characterized by severe pain that has no cure. However she said much of the pain she feels is no longer a symptom of the condition.
"I have four titanium plates in my neck. I've had 14 surgeries over the years. I had an operation the same evening as the first season finale of American Idol," Abdul explained to OK!. "It can come and go at any time, but I no longer have the intense nerve pain that is associated with RSD, thank God."
Having survived an auto accident when she was hit by a drunk driver in 1987; a plane crash in 1993; as well as eating disorders throughout the early years of her life, Abdul told OK! she's never thought about suicide but does suffer from depression.
"I've survived a number of crises, and with it comes depression," she told OK!. "I have really good therapists. I'm not afraid to ask for help. I need help. I've been through some major s**t where depression could have been a disease for me and led me to not even be here."
In addition to the crises that affected her early life, Abdul has had to endure media scrutiny while serving as an Idol judge. She's constantly heckled by fellow judge Simon Cowell; has to frequently deny rumors she takes drugs recreationally and drinks heavily; constantly deals with reports that she's being replaced on Idol; was at the center of a reported sex scandal with former Idol 2 finalist Corey Clark, who alleged that he and Abdul had a sexual relationship while he was competing on the series; and most recently had an alleged run-in with her dog that ended with her breaking her nose and had to deal with a private phone conversaton she had with publicists being leaked to the media.
"I have felt like an outsider, yet I've always had so much love from my fans," she told OK!. "I've worked very hard. I know how powerful I am. I was rejected, rejected, rejected, and told that I was not meant to be a dancer. I never fit the mold, but I went on to become the most famous choreographer in the world. I'm a warrior. I'm not the best dancer, and I'm certainly not the best singer, but I am an entire package of a great performer."
Abdul aid she's only recently started to date again, but said success is minimal because "men are intimidated by me." While she'd like to become involved in a romantic relationship, Abdul said there's also nothing wrong with being single.
"I would never be in a relationship for the sake of being in a relationship. I feel okay on my own," she told OK!. "Real love is understanding who I am and loving myself even when I didn't like myself. I love being in love. I really do. I'm proud of who I am."
"I didn't find out my purpose in life until American Idol," said Abdul in the June 11 issue of OK! Weekly. "I knew since I was a little girl that I had this profound way of touching people. My purpose is bringing out everybody's best and being that cheerleader to other people's success."
The revelation by the 45-year-old that she hadn't found her place in life until Idol's 2002 premiere could be considered somewhat surprising since her career as a dancer, choreographer and singer were all established prior to that. She initially gained notoriety working as a Los Angeles Lakers' Laker Girl and becoming the eventual choreographer for the group. She then went on to choreograph music videos for numerous artists, from Duran Duran and Dolly Parton to Janet Jackson and INXS. As a pop-star in the 1980s, Abdul sang numerous hits, including "Opposites Attract," "Forever Your Girl," "Rush, Rush" and "Crazy Cool." "Opposites Attract"'s music video won Abdul a 1991 Grammy Award for best short form music video.
"I've had three separate careers and shots at superstardom, the third time around with this show. Being a judge on American Idol overshadows being a Grammy Award winner and selling millions of records," she told OK!.
While appearing as an Idol judge may have been a blessing for Abdul, it's also made her life more hectic than ever. Her Bravo docu-reality series Hey Paula! is scheduled to premiere June 28; she's producing her new Bratz: The Movie project; she's developed her own line of perfumes and cosmetics; has her own originally-designed jewelry line; markets a clothing line she started; and also makes numerous personal appearances.
"If I appear exhausted on television, it's because I am!" Abdul told OK!. "I have a lot of sleepless nights because I'm in so much pain. I was taking far more medications on earlier seasons [of Idol], and nobody said anything. I try to say something and I stumble, and that's what people have picked up on. I'm not polished."
In April 2005, Abdul revealed she suffers from a rare neurological disorder called complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), which causes the chronic pain she feels.
"I have had Botox injections in my neck to numb the nerves but it didn't really work. I had three injections in eight years," Abdul told OK!. "I inject myself with a shot of Humira every two weeks, which is very helpful. I also use Enbrel [which like Humira can be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis], Relafan [an anti-inflamatory drug] and the painkiller lidocaine. Two or three times a week I have a specialist message to calm the nervous system. I see an acupuncture specialist who deals in head and spinal-cord trauma."
She's also bee diagnosed with reflex sympathetic dystrophy, a chronic condition characterized by severe pain that has no cure. However she said much of the pain she feels is no longer a symptom of the condition.
"I have four titanium plates in my neck. I've had 14 surgeries over the years. I had an operation the same evening as the first season finale of American Idol," Abdul explained to OK!. "It can come and go at any time, but I no longer have the intense nerve pain that is associated with RSD, thank God."
Having survived an auto accident when she was hit by a drunk driver in 1987; a plane crash in 1993; as well as eating disorders throughout the early years of her life, Abdul told OK! she's never thought about suicide but does suffer from depression.
"I've survived a number of crises, and with it comes depression," she told OK!. "I have really good therapists. I'm not afraid to ask for help. I need help. I've been through some major s**t where depression could have been a disease for me and led me to not even be here."
In addition to the crises that affected her early life, Abdul has had to endure media scrutiny while serving as an Idol judge. She's constantly heckled by fellow judge Simon Cowell; has to frequently deny rumors she takes drugs recreationally and drinks heavily; constantly deals with reports that she's being replaced on Idol; was at the center of a reported sex scandal with former Idol 2 finalist Corey Clark, who alleged that he and Abdul had a sexual relationship while he was competing on the series; and most recently had an alleged run-in with her dog that ended with her breaking her nose and had to deal with a private phone conversaton she had with publicists being leaked to the media.
"I have felt like an outsider, yet I've always had so much love from my fans," she told OK!. "I've worked very hard. I know how powerful I am. I was rejected, rejected, rejected, and told that I was not meant to be a dancer. I never fit the mold, but I went on to become the most famous choreographer in the world. I'm a warrior. I'm not the best dancer, and I'm certainly not the best singer, but I am an entire package of a great performer."
Abdul aid she's only recently started to date again, but said success is minimal because "men are intimidated by me." While she'd like to become involved in a romantic relationship, Abdul said there's also nothing wrong with being single.
"I would never be in a relationship for the sake of being in a relationship. I feel okay on my own," she told OK!. "Real love is understanding who I am and loving myself even when I didn't like myself. I love being in love. I really do. I'm proud of who I am."
Obesity Campaigner Gets 'Death Threats' Over American Idol Jordin Sparks
An obesity campaigner who criticised American Idol winner Jordin Sparks' weight has received death threats over her remarks.
MeMe Roth, of the National Action Against Obesity group in the U.S., admits she has been the victim of hate-mail ever since her appearance on a TV show, with fans of the star "calling for my death".
But Roth refuses to retract her opinions, and insists 17-year-old Sparks is in need of severe weight loss, but denies she referred to the singer as "obese".
MeMe Roth, of the National Action Against Obesity group in the U.S., admits she has been the victim of hate-mail ever since her appearance on a TV show, with fans of the star "calling for my death".
But Roth refuses to retract her opinions, and insists 17-year-old Sparks is in need of severe weight loss, but denies she referred to the singer as "obese".
American Idol Simon Cowell 'Sick With Envy' Over Dancing With Stars
American Idol judge Simon Cowell confesses he is jealous of friends who taste success - but insists it is healthy to be competitive.
The music mogul also admits he is 'sick with envy' he wasn't the brainchild behind hit U.S. TV show Dancing with the Stars, and secretly wanted the programme to flop.
He says, "If someone I know is doing better than me I get incredibly miserable.
The music mogul also admits he is 'sick with envy' he wasn't the brainchild behind hit U.S. TV show Dancing with the Stars, and secretly wanted the programme to flop.
He says, "If someone I know is doing better than me I get incredibly miserable.
American Idol Simon Cowell's Hairdryer Fetish
Music mogul Simon Cowell abides by a superstitious ritual before appearing on TV - he "worships" his hair-dryer, according to his co-star.
Cowell's pre-show ritual was exposed by his Britain's Got Talent co-judge Amanda Holden.
The actress explains, "He has a little routine before every show, with his hairdryer, but it's pointless - he looks exactly the same afterwards.
Cowell's pre-show ritual was exposed by his Britain's Got Talent co-judge Amanda Holden.
The actress explains, "He has a little routine before every show, with his hairdryer, but it's pointless - he looks exactly the same afterwards.
American Idol is Last
‘American Idol’ runner-up Katharine McPhee has snagged a film role – a lead role in fact.
In “The Last Caller”, she’ll play a self-obsessed woman who searches for love, hope and meaning during a few random events with other urban seekers.
"This is the first thing that I read that I really wanted to do," said McPhee, who added that the role doesn't involve singing. "I'm up for a couple of big studio projects, but they weren't starring roles. I wanted to start off doing something a little different. It's something that a lot of people wouldn't expect me doing."
In fact, the Southern California native said the film's protagonist "is definitely a little darker than me."
In “The Last Caller”, she’ll play a self-obsessed woman who searches for love, hope and meaning during a few random events with other urban seekers.
"This is the first thing that I read that I really wanted to do," said McPhee, who added that the role doesn't involve singing. "I'm up for a couple of big studio projects, but they weren't starring roles. I wanted to start off doing something a little different. It's something that a lot of people wouldn't expect me doing."
In fact, the Southern California native said the film's protagonist "is definitely a little darker than me."
Monday, June 4, 2007
With Korea as Model, Bush Team Ponders Long Support Role in Iraq
WASHINGTON, June 2 — For the first time, the Bush administration is beginning publicly to discuss basing American troops in Iraq for years, even decades to come, a subject so fraught with political landmines that officials are tiptoeing around the inevitable questions about what the United States’ long-term mission would be there.
President Bush has long talked about the need to maintain an American military presence in the region, without saying exactly where. Several visitors to the White House say that in private, he has sounded intrigued by what he calls the “Korea model,” a reference to the large American presence in South Korea for the 54 years since the armistice that ended open hostilities between North and South.
But it was not until Wednesday that Mr. Bush’s spokesman, Tony Snow, publicly reached for the Korea example in talking about Iraq — setting off an analogy war between the White House and critics who charged that the administration was again disconnected from the realities of Iraq. He said Korea was one way to think about how America’s mission could evolve into an “over-the-horizon support role,” whenever American troops are no longer patrolling the streets of Baghdad.
The next day, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates also mentioned Korea, saying that establishing a long-term American garrison there was a lot smarter than the handling of Vietnam, “where we just left lock, stock and barrel.” He added that “the idea is more a model of a mutually agreed arrangement whereby we have a long and enduring presence but under the consent of both parties and under certain conditions.”
Korea is an attractive analogy for the Bush White House for a host of reasons: a half-century later, South Korea is a raucous democracy and one of the world’s biggest economies. The North is a broken, isolated state, though one that, improbably, has not only survived for more than 50 years but has built a small nuclear arsenal.
But Korea is also the kind of analogy that stokes the fears of those who see Iraq leading to unending war. The model suggests a near-permanent presence in Iraq, though presumably with far fewer troops than the nearly 150,000 now in place.
In a Democratic-controlled Congress, which continues to press for a troop withdrawal deadline, talk of permanent bases is not welcome, though many Democrats acknowledge that the United States cannot simply leave Iraq in chaos. Nor is the idea popular in the Middle East, though some countries are desperate for a strategic counterweight to Iran’s growing power.
Critics on the left who have argued for years that the Iraq war was really about oil leap on such talk as evidence that the administration’s real agenda is to put its forces right on top of Iraq’s still-broken pipelines. Those who fear the next target is Iran — including the Iranians — will see the permanent bases as staging areas, in case the United States decides to take military action against Iran’s nuclear program and deal with the repercussions later.
And the analogy rankles analysts who believe the situation is far less similar to Korea than it is to Vietnam in the ’60s or Beirut in the ’80s, where American bases became the No. 1 targets, and a rallying call for extremists, in an endless guerrilla war.
“It’s not that Iraq isn’t vital,” said Leslie Gelb, the former president of the Council of Foreign Relations, and one of the many experts organized by groups opposing Mr. Bush’s Iraq strategy to shoot back in the analogy war. “It’s just that Korea bears no resemblance to Iraq. There’s no strategy that can create victory.”
Historical analogy has been a problem for this administration since the start of the Iraq war in 2003. In the months before the invasion, there was talk of modeling a post-Saddam Hussein Iraq after the successful occupations of Japan and Germany. But even then, historians and analysts were warning against such comparisons, arguing that those were two cohesive societies that were exhausted by years of war and bore little resemblance to the fractured Iraqi society and its potential for internal violence.
The core problem with the Korea comparison, many experts on Asia note, is that when the war ended in 1953, there were bright lines drawn across the 38th Parallel, separating the warring parties. That hardened into the formal Demilitarized Zone, exactly the kind of division that the Bush administration has said it wants to avoid in Iraq.
And while there have been incursions across the Korean border over the years — a famous ax murder, underground invasion tunnels, a few commando raids by boat — those were mostly long ago. Nothing there has approached the Hobbesian state of chaos that is everyday life in Baghdad and Anbar Province.
Some of Mr. Bush’s critics see an effort to reach for any comparison other than Vietnam.
“If we can make this like Korea, then we have been successful,” said the Donald L. Kerrick, a retired general who spent 30 years in the military and has now emerged as one of a cadre of generals criticizing Mr. Bush’s strategy. He said that he did not believe the analogy fit.
Mr. Bush himself has made clear, while in Hanoi late last year for a summit meeting, that he believes America’s mistake in Vietnam was that it gave up too early. “We’ll succeed unless we quit” he told a small group of reporters who asked him what lessons he drew for Iraq. He declined to engage in deeper comparisons, including the fact that President Lyndon Johnson’s dire warnings about what would happen if the United States pulled out of Vietnam — that Communism would spread across Asia — never came to pass.
Administration officials and top military leaders declined to talk on the record about their long-term plans in Iraq. But when speaking on a not-for-attribution basis, they describe a fairly detailed concept. It calls for maintaining three or four major bases in the country, all well outside of the crowded urban areas where casualties have soared. They would include the base at Al Asad in Anbar Province, Balad Air Base about 50 miles north of Baghdad, and Tallil Air Base in the south.
“They are all places we could fly in and out of without putting Americans on every street corner,” said one senior official deeply involved in the development of Iraq strategy. “And our mission would be very different — making sure that Al Qaeda doesn’t turn Iraq into a base the way it turned Afghanistan into one.”
A long-term presence is envisioned by many experts, and it has been raised as a possibility by the Baker-Hamilton Commission, whose report on Iraq has now been embraced by President Bush — five months after he all but dismissed its conclusions. But the problem, as one senior administration official acknowledged last week, is that there is little reason to believe that American bases will stop Iraq from being “the great jihadist training camp it is today.”
As in Korea, the bases may be an effort to prevent calamity and invasion. The question is whether, in the firestorm of Iraq, their contribution to security would outweigh their roles as symbols of occupation or targets of terrorism.
President Bush has long talked about the need to maintain an American military presence in the region, without saying exactly where. Several visitors to the White House say that in private, he has sounded intrigued by what he calls the “Korea model,” a reference to the large American presence in South Korea for the 54 years since the armistice that ended open hostilities between North and South.
But it was not until Wednesday that Mr. Bush’s spokesman, Tony Snow, publicly reached for the Korea example in talking about Iraq — setting off an analogy war between the White House and critics who charged that the administration was again disconnected from the realities of Iraq. He said Korea was one way to think about how America’s mission could evolve into an “over-the-horizon support role,” whenever American troops are no longer patrolling the streets of Baghdad.
The next day, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates also mentioned Korea, saying that establishing a long-term American garrison there was a lot smarter than the handling of Vietnam, “where we just left lock, stock and barrel.” He added that “the idea is more a model of a mutually agreed arrangement whereby we have a long and enduring presence but under the consent of both parties and under certain conditions.”
Korea is an attractive analogy for the Bush White House for a host of reasons: a half-century later, South Korea is a raucous democracy and one of the world’s biggest economies. The North is a broken, isolated state, though one that, improbably, has not only survived for more than 50 years but has built a small nuclear arsenal.
But Korea is also the kind of analogy that stokes the fears of those who see Iraq leading to unending war. The model suggests a near-permanent presence in Iraq, though presumably with far fewer troops than the nearly 150,000 now in place.
In a Democratic-controlled Congress, which continues to press for a troop withdrawal deadline, talk of permanent bases is not welcome, though many Democrats acknowledge that the United States cannot simply leave Iraq in chaos. Nor is the idea popular in the Middle East, though some countries are desperate for a strategic counterweight to Iran’s growing power.
Critics on the left who have argued for years that the Iraq war was really about oil leap on such talk as evidence that the administration’s real agenda is to put its forces right on top of Iraq’s still-broken pipelines. Those who fear the next target is Iran — including the Iranians — will see the permanent bases as staging areas, in case the United States decides to take military action against Iran’s nuclear program and deal with the repercussions later.
And the analogy rankles analysts who believe the situation is far less similar to Korea than it is to Vietnam in the ’60s or Beirut in the ’80s, where American bases became the No. 1 targets, and a rallying call for extremists, in an endless guerrilla war.
“It’s not that Iraq isn’t vital,” said Leslie Gelb, the former president of the Council of Foreign Relations, and one of the many experts organized by groups opposing Mr. Bush’s Iraq strategy to shoot back in the analogy war. “It’s just that Korea bears no resemblance to Iraq. There’s no strategy that can create victory.”
Historical analogy has been a problem for this administration since the start of the Iraq war in 2003. In the months before the invasion, there was talk of modeling a post-Saddam Hussein Iraq after the successful occupations of Japan and Germany. But even then, historians and analysts were warning against such comparisons, arguing that those were two cohesive societies that were exhausted by years of war and bore little resemblance to the fractured Iraqi society and its potential for internal violence.
The core problem with the Korea comparison, many experts on Asia note, is that when the war ended in 1953, there were bright lines drawn across the 38th Parallel, separating the warring parties. That hardened into the formal Demilitarized Zone, exactly the kind of division that the Bush administration has said it wants to avoid in Iraq.
And while there have been incursions across the Korean border over the years — a famous ax murder, underground invasion tunnels, a few commando raids by boat — those were mostly long ago. Nothing there has approached the Hobbesian state of chaos that is everyday life in Baghdad and Anbar Province.
Some of Mr. Bush’s critics see an effort to reach for any comparison other than Vietnam.
“If we can make this like Korea, then we have been successful,” said the Donald L. Kerrick, a retired general who spent 30 years in the military and has now emerged as one of a cadre of generals criticizing Mr. Bush’s strategy. He said that he did not believe the analogy fit.
Mr. Bush himself has made clear, while in Hanoi late last year for a summit meeting, that he believes America’s mistake in Vietnam was that it gave up too early. “We’ll succeed unless we quit” he told a small group of reporters who asked him what lessons he drew for Iraq. He declined to engage in deeper comparisons, including the fact that President Lyndon Johnson’s dire warnings about what would happen if the United States pulled out of Vietnam — that Communism would spread across Asia — never came to pass.
Administration officials and top military leaders declined to talk on the record about their long-term plans in Iraq. But when speaking on a not-for-attribution basis, they describe a fairly detailed concept. It calls for maintaining three or four major bases in the country, all well outside of the crowded urban areas where casualties have soared. They would include the base at Al Asad in Anbar Province, Balad Air Base about 50 miles north of Baghdad, and Tallil Air Base in the south.
“They are all places we could fly in and out of without putting Americans on every street corner,” said one senior official deeply involved in the development of Iraq strategy. “And our mission would be very different — making sure that Al Qaeda doesn’t turn Iraq into a base the way it turned Afghanistan into one.”
A long-term presence is envisioned by many experts, and it has been raised as a possibility by the Baker-Hamilton Commission, whose report on Iraq has now been embraced by President Bush — five months after he all but dismissed its conclusions. But the problem, as one senior administration official acknowledged last week, is that there is little reason to believe that American bases will stop Iraq from being “the great jihadist training camp it is today.”
As in Korea, the bases may be an effort to prevent calamity and invasion. The question is whether, in the firestorm of Iraq, their contribution to security would outweigh their roles as symbols of occupation or targets of terrorism.
American Idol, The King and The Greatest go private
The gleam of the American Idol brand is brighter than ever after CNNMoney.com reported that billionaire and media magnate Robert F.X. Sillerman made a successful bid to take the AI franchise owner, CKX Inc (NASDAQ: CKXE) private. CKX announced Friday it accepted the offer from a group led by its current CEO, Sillerman, for $1.3 billion. Since Sillerman and other board members already owned 46% of outstanding capital stock, sale approval was a slam dunk.
The offer of $13.75 per share carried a 29% premium. However, according to the Wall Street Journal's MarketBeat, this fell well short of the $20-25 value investors placed on the stock.
Other CKX holdings include the rights to Elvis Presley, his music and his Graceland estate, as well as the rights to the name, image, and likeness of Muhammad Ali.
The company is attempting to grow its Presley line by enlisting the help of Cirque du Soleil in creating Presley-themed shows. It already has a deal with MGM Mirage to stage a permanent, live Presley show on the Strip in Las Vegas beginning in 2009. CKX also operates the Heartbreak Hotel, near Graceland, which might be a good place for the stockholders who feel the sale price was low to commiserate.
The company also plans to extend its Idol franchise worldwide. Since Simon (who needs a last name?) is contracted to the company, as well as holding a seat on the board of directors, we can safely assume his involvement won't be affected by the transition.
The offer of $13.75 per share carried a 29% premium. However, according to the Wall Street Journal's MarketBeat, this fell well short of the $20-25 value investors placed on the stock.
Other CKX holdings include the rights to Elvis Presley, his music and his Graceland estate, as well as the rights to the name, image, and likeness of Muhammad Ali.
The company is attempting to grow its Presley line by enlisting the help of Cirque du Soleil in creating Presley-themed shows. It already has a deal with MGM Mirage to stage a permanent, live Presley show on the Strip in Las Vegas beginning in 2009. CKX also operates the Heartbreak Hotel, near Graceland, which might be a good place for the stockholders who feel the sale price was low to commiserate.
The company also plans to extend its Idol franchise worldwide. Since Simon (who needs a last name?) is contracted to the company, as well as holding a seat on the board of directors, we can safely assume his involvement won't be affected by the transition.
American Idol: Pundit calls Jordin Sparks obese
Correspondents, talking heads, pundits, mental midgets; whatever you want to call them, it's becoming all too common for someone on a cable news network to spout a totally ridiculous opinion just to stir up some controversy. A couple weeks back, on FOX News, MeMe Roth from the National Action Against Obesity group, came on Neil Cavuto's show and said that Jordin Sparks should not win American Idol because she is obese and it sends the wrong message to American's youth. Child obesity (and obesity in general) is a serious issue in our country, and MeMe Roth may have had good intentions, but there are much better examples of obesity than Jordin Sparks.
MeMe Roth said, “When I look at Jordin I see diabetes, I see heart disease, I see high cholesterol. That's what's so sad about this. She is not the vision of health; she is the vision of unhealth.”
Besides the fact that “unhealth” is not a word, MeMe is out of line here. Jordin Sparks is, simply, a big girl. Five feet, eleven inches, and the daughter of a former NFL player. Svelteness probably wasn't a genetic option for Jordin. Also, let's not forget that Jordin is 17 years old. She may very well lose her baby fat in the next few years and, even if she doesn't, most viewers would probably agree that she looked relatively healthy throughout the season.
MeMe Roth, since her appearance on FOX News, says she has received death threats for her comments. Whoever issued said threats are clearly insane (as I suppose anyone who issues death threats is), but they are a good indicator of the passionate backlash she has received since targeting Jordin and her weight.
The truth is that, yeah, Jordin Sparks would benefit from losing weight. A lot of people would. But, to target a 17-year old feels wrong, and is indicative of how preposterous much of cable news/talking head segments have become. With so much noise in the media, sometimes the only way to be heard is to opine loudly and/or insanely (I'm looking at you, Skip Bayless).
MeMe Roth said, “When I look at Jordin I see diabetes, I see heart disease, I see high cholesterol. That's what's so sad about this. She is not the vision of health; she is the vision of unhealth.”
Besides the fact that “unhealth” is not a word, MeMe is out of line here. Jordin Sparks is, simply, a big girl. Five feet, eleven inches, and the daughter of a former NFL player. Svelteness probably wasn't a genetic option for Jordin. Also, let's not forget that Jordin is 17 years old. She may very well lose her baby fat in the next few years and, even if she doesn't, most viewers would probably agree that she looked relatively healthy throughout the season.
MeMe Roth, since her appearance on FOX News, says she has received death threats for her comments. Whoever issued said threats are clearly insane (as I suppose anyone who issues death threats is), but they are a good indicator of the passionate backlash she has received since targeting Jordin and her weight.
The truth is that, yeah, Jordin Sparks would benefit from losing weight. A lot of people would. But, to target a 17-year old feels wrong, and is indicative of how preposterous much of cable news/talking head segments have become. With so much noise in the media, sometimes the only way to be heard is to opine loudly and/or insanely (I'm looking at you, Skip Bayless).
Britney Spears An American Idol Judge? WTF?!
Britney Spears may be the next judge on American Idol! Britney Spears, who can't sing and lip-synchs during most of her concerts, may actually become an American Idol judge in place of the 'loopy' Paula Abdul.
According to Mike Walker, a rumor mill/gossip 'expert', Idol is considering switching Paula Abdul, an experienced artist who's worked with countless stars and has been with American Idol since the get-go, with Britney Spears, a young pop star inexperienced in recognizing and building upon a voice talent.
According to Mike Walker, a rumor mill/gossip 'expert', Idol is considering switching Paula Abdul, an experienced artist who's worked with countless stars and has been with American Idol since the get-go, with Britney Spears, a young pop star inexperienced in recognizing and building upon a voice talent.
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