My girlfriend and I, a little worn out from the week, were loathe to get in line to enter a packed bar to drink mediocre beer at non-mediocre prices. In a turn of whimsy, she dressed in a cute black outfit, grabbed a small Batman action figure that I got from a Cheerios box, grabbed my arm and ordered that chaos should ensue. Below is the result.....
Showing posts with label Publicity Machine. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Publicity Machine. Show all posts
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Helping Haiti and Having Happiness
Recently I've started going back to church. No, I'm not talking about worshiping some invisible guy in outer space who hates homosexuals and dictates that we give our money to sex fiends and the Republican party... Sorry, hope I didn't offend anyone...
The girlfriend and I have been going to the Unitarian church called Micah's Porch, located in Chicago's Wicker Park. We've been searching for answers about the meaning of life, what our role is in the world, the other good things that actually come from the "church experience": community, service, discussion of meaning, free food.
The things I like: we drink coffee instead of harping on about drinking some dude's blood, God is a personal and different concept depending on the person, lack of dogma dictating who is "saved" and going to hell, services are held in a theater instead of some weird churchy place, and a rock band plays decent non-Christian music.
I don't consider myself religious, Christian, or atheist. I see worth in Christian compassion, but also Buddhist philosophy, Taoist rationalism, and progressive Muslim thought, and other parts of various traditions.
I told the pastor that I didn't know if there is a God. He responded that people all have to find what is authentic to them, on a path that is compassionate and mindful of how individuals impact the world.
With that in mind, I've tried the service thing that everyone claims to want to do to better the world and make a positive impact, feed the children, save the whales, etc.
Two strangers from the Micah's and I (most of the "parishioners" are under 30) carpooled out to a nonprofit called Bright Hope yesterday. The two strangers quickly became my friends, both interested in questioning government, the arts, politics, philosophy in a way with which I could engage.
Upon getting to Hoffman Estates-based Bright Hope, the more left-leaning folks from Micah's (us 3) came into contact with suburbia, Illinois, with Republican Christians, a girl scout troop, and possibly the random Americorps volunteer trying to pay back college loans. Our collective goal: feed Haitian kids.
We assembled into a warehouse and in assembly-line fashion, packaged bags with measured amounts of protein, dehydrated veggies, soy, and rice, something the organizers deemed a "scientifically-divined" formula to give the right nutrients to kids who would have otherwise eaten dirt to stave off hunger pains.
I handled the rice at first, pouring it after the protein, veggies, soy into a spout that filled bags. The bags were measured, pulled taut, sealed, boxed, and organized to be sent to rural areas of Haiti. I shifted from rice to veggies, from veggies to soy in my attempts to stave off the tediousness of dumping food product in a spout to save lives in Haiti, making sure to make polite small talk with my more conservative and Christian co-workers The Micah's group, all three of us, broke off to invade the Republicans. (note: I am not really a Democrat, but I do enjoy making fun of Republicans, in good humor of course.)
Though the work was very mundane in itself, (repetitive factory work for 2 hours what many people would consider the ideal way to spend the afternoon) the spokesman/organizer at bright hope reminded us of our important work. And it did feel good to help in my small way to feed kids who would otherwise go hungry, make new friends, work with people with which I might not usually find much in agreement.
We were informed that the warehouse group of about 40ish volunteers produced 21,000 "meals," filling 98 boxes to be sent to Haiti, with the ultimate possibility of staving off hunger for 57 kids for a year. All in all, I felt that that was a Saturday better spent than sitting in front of the computer.
While riding back to Chi-town with my two new friends, we talked about other ways we could help out, common concerns with the economy/politics, listened to good music. The whole experience helped me fulfill a need that many in my generation may have - a feeling of connectedness to the world.
Cheesy, but true. I recommend any volunteering that you think could make an impact. Take a flask along if you need a pick-me-up.
The girlfriend and I have been going to the Unitarian church called Micah's Porch, located in Chicago's Wicker Park. We've been searching for answers about the meaning of life, what our role is in the world, the other good things that actually come from the "church experience": community, service, discussion of meaning, free food.
The things I like: we drink coffee instead of harping on about drinking some dude's blood, God is a personal and different concept depending on the person, lack of dogma dictating who is "saved" and going to hell, services are held in a theater instead of some weird churchy place, and a rock band plays decent non-Christian music.
I don't consider myself religious, Christian, or atheist. I see worth in Christian compassion, but also Buddhist philosophy, Taoist rationalism, and progressive Muslim thought, and other parts of various traditions.
I told the pastor that I didn't know if there is a God. He responded that people all have to find what is authentic to them, on a path that is compassionate and mindful of how individuals impact the world.
With that in mind, I've tried the service thing that everyone claims to want to do to better the world and make a positive impact, feed the children, save the whales, etc.
Two strangers from the Micah's and I (most of the "parishioners" are under 30) carpooled out to a nonprofit called Bright Hope yesterday. The two strangers quickly became my friends, both interested in questioning government, the arts, politics, philosophy in a way with which I could engage.
Upon getting to Hoffman Estates-based Bright Hope, the more left-leaning folks from Micah's (us 3) came into contact with suburbia, Illinois, with Republican Christians, a girl scout troop, and possibly the random Americorps volunteer trying to pay back college loans. Our collective goal: feed Haitian kids.
We assembled into a warehouse and in assembly-line fashion, packaged bags with measured amounts of protein, dehydrated veggies, soy, and rice, something the organizers deemed a "scientifically-divined" formula to give the right nutrients to kids who would have otherwise eaten dirt to stave off hunger pains.
I handled the rice at first, pouring it after the protein, veggies, soy into a spout that filled bags. The bags were measured, pulled taut, sealed, boxed, and organized to be sent to rural areas of Haiti. I shifted from rice to veggies, from veggies to soy in my attempts to stave off the tediousness of dumping food product in a spout to save lives in Haiti, making sure to make polite small talk with my more conservative and Christian co-workers The Micah's group, all three of us, broke off to invade the Republicans. (note: I am not really a Democrat, but I do enjoy making fun of Republicans, in good humor of course.)
Though the work was very mundane in itself, (repetitive factory work for 2 hours what many people would consider the ideal way to spend the afternoon) the spokesman/organizer at bright hope reminded us of our important work. And it did feel good to help in my small way to feed kids who would otherwise go hungry, make new friends, work with people with which I might not usually find much in agreement.
We were informed that the warehouse group of about 40ish volunteers produced 21,000 "meals," filling 98 boxes to be sent to Haiti, with the ultimate possibility of staving off hunger for 57 kids for a year. All in all, I felt that that was a Saturday better spent than sitting in front of the computer.
While riding back to Chi-town with my two new friends, we talked about other ways we could help out, common concerns with the economy/politics, listened to good music. The whole experience helped me fulfill a need that many in my generation may have - a feeling of connectedness to the world.
Cheesy, but true. I recommend any volunteering that you think could make an impact. Take a flask along if you need a pick-me-up.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Testicles, assholes, and the Nobel Prize
Joe Scarborough can occasionally make a good point about the downfall of actual conservatism in the face of Republican dominance. Though his "discussion" on Obama winning the Nobel Prize devolved into a back and forth with Limbaugh over putting testicles into a vice and the White House calling him an asshole.
I'm glad that useful airtime is devoted to lips and assholes to handle the tough questions that are facing U.S. Citizens in light of a recession, two wars, health care conundrum, etc.
I for one thought the Nobel was premature. Obama has given some successful speeches to garner the attention, and some respect, from the world. There's the highest level talks with Iran regarding its nuclear program, Mendvedev is considering sanctions, Non-proliferation is again on the global radar. But Afghanistan and Palestine are drifting further from peace.
I also think, Big deal... Kissinger and Teddy Roosevelt also won Nobel Peace prizes.
Below is somewhat entertaining. Lips and assholes anyone?
I'm glad that useful airtime is devoted to lips and assholes to handle the tough questions that are facing U.S. Citizens in light of a recession, two wars, health care conundrum, etc.
I for one thought the Nobel was premature. Obama has given some successful speeches to garner the attention, and some respect, from the world. There's the highest level talks with Iran regarding its nuclear program, Mendvedev is considering sanctions, Non-proliferation is again on the global radar. But Afghanistan and Palestine are drifting further from peace.
I also think, Big deal... Kissinger and Teddy Roosevelt also won Nobel Peace prizes.
Below is somewhat entertaining. Lips and assholes anyone?
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Sad Days
My beloved Isthmus, Madison's alt-weekly, is considering lay offs that are spreading across the newspaper industry, reports the Capital Times, who itself had to cut staff and quit printing paper editions of the daily.
This as advertisers prefer to go to lower cost venues instead of pumping money into a paper that not only uncovers police brutality and government corruption, but does it with personality. The great thing I like is that editors there don't pretend to be objective and rehash quotes/old story lines. In this way the paper addresses a more specific audience.
Much more valuable to advertisers than just a general info rag for the "average American."
I've been thinking for a long time that Isthmus should collect a minor subscription fee instead of being soley funded by ad dollars. Such a fee could be negligible, but still help fund substantive gaps.
For example, instead of being free, how about charging $0.05 per copy? A lot of readers would likely pay a nickel for Isthmus.
If Isthmus charged five cents with its current circulation of 61,000, that's $3050 extra each week. Enough to pay for more reporters (and freelancers). Even if circulation dropped to 45,000 due to the price, that's an extra $2,250...
...jeez I'm happy I joined the journalism industry...
Thedailypage/Isthmus will find a way to get its message out despite changes/a poor economy. If not just because it's a Madison institution.
This as advertisers prefer to go to lower cost venues instead of pumping money into a paper that not only uncovers police brutality and government corruption, but does it with personality. The great thing I like is that editors there don't pretend to be objective and rehash quotes/old story lines. In this way the paper addresses a more specific audience.
Much more valuable to advertisers than just a general info rag for the "average American."
I've been thinking for a long time that Isthmus should collect a minor subscription fee instead of being soley funded by ad dollars. Such a fee could be negligible, but still help fund substantive gaps.
For example, instead of being free, how about charging $0.05 per copy? A lot of readers would likely pay a nickel for Isthmus.
If Isthmus charged five cents with its current circulation of 61,000, that's $3050 extra each week. Enough to pay for more reporters (and freelancers). Even if circulation dropped to 45,000 due to the price, that's an extra $2,250...
...jeez I'm happy I joined the journalism industry...
Thedailypage/Isthmus will find a way to get its message out despite changes/a poor economy. If not just because it's a Madison institution.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Operation Iraqi Oil
It's official, Bush cronies have swapped oil deals for international cred, despite the Iraqi government, according to a Congressional panel. Bush's friendly friends at Hunt Oil contracted under the semiautonomous government of Kurdistan (a region in Iraq's north); this without the consent of Iraq's central government in Baghdad.
In the NYTimes:
This also may pose a problem as Shia, Sunni, and Kurdish Iraqis have tensions between them. A thorny issue is reception of revenue of rich oil deposits in the northern city of Kirkuk.
In the NYTimes:
The company, Hunt Oil of Dallas, signed the deal with Kurdistan’s semiautonomous government last September. Its chief executive, Ray L. Hunt, a close political ally of President Bush, briefed an advisory board to Mr. Bush on his contacts with Kurdish officials before the deal was signed.Glad we went to Iraq to build democracy and help our brothers and sisters in the Iraq government, by allowing that central government to be undercut by private American interests allied with the president.
In an e-mail message released by the Congressional committee, a State Department official in Washington, briefed by a colleague about the impending deal with the Kurdistan Regional Government, wrote: “Many thanks for the heads up; getting an American company to sign a deal with the K.R.G. will make big news back here. Please keep us posted.”
...The encouragement by State Department officials did not end with the signing of the contract on Sept. 8, the documents suggest. Five days later, a State Department official in the southern city of Basra wrote to Ms. Phillips, “I read and heard about with interest your deal with the regional Kurdish government.”
“I don’t know if you are aware of another opportunity,” the official wrote, mentioning an enormous port project and a natural gas project in the south. After a few more lines, the official concluded, “This seems like it would be a good opportunity for Hunt.”
This also may pose a problem as Shia, Sunni, and Kurdish Iraqis have tensions between them. A thorny issue is reception of revenue of rich oil deposits in the northern city of Kirkuk.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Act like you give a shit and people will like you
Onion once again delivers the fake news in such a real way that it's more real than the real news, or something to that effect.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Puerto Rico, Iraq, and the ability to see gray
My latest chitowndailynews.org article highlights the work of 14 students Dr. Pedro Albizu Campos High School, who curated an exhibition looking at Puerto Rico's past through the eyes of others.
Amidst a week of celebration in Humboldt Park on Puerto Rican heritage the week of June 9, I found the students work to be the best show of pride. (My street was turned into a parking lot, otherwise, for a carnival in the park next door)
17th century documents show Europeans dealing in the slave trade, 19th-20th century photos/books show Puerto Ricans in a disparaging light (needing to be developed by those industrious Yanks and Spaniards), academics from the same period spoke of the burgeoning independence movement after the Spanish American War.
I don't think the article does justice to the efforts of the students; I never was able to get a hold of any of them. But their work was impressive...See info here.
Also, the University of Chicago Oriental Institute is running an exhibition on the looting of Iraq's past until December, which I wrote about here in a column for New City alt-Weekly.
Coalition forces are documented as not stopping tbe looting the elements of Iraqi history, and ultimately civilization writ large. This as New Conservatives talked about building a democratic society. There's some irony.
In the news, Big oil companies are now "negotiating" no-bid oil contracts in Iraq, one sees the real reason we went to war... The results of these negotiations will be known Monday.
I digress...
The University of Chicago exhibition is worthwhile for a cold/rainy day. Or someday when you don't feel like going outside and want to be cynical, yet informed. Cynicism and knowledge are far from mutually exclusive. For more about location, etc., click here.
Today's weather, however, is beautiful. And I'm not feeling like reveling in my cynicism. Perhaps tomorrow.
Amidst a week of celebration in Humboldt Park on Puerto Rican heritage the week of June 9, I found the students work to be the best show of pride. (My street was turned into a parking lot, otherwise, for a carnival in the park next door)
17th century documents show Europeans dealing in the slave trade, 19th-20th century photos/books show Puerto Ricans in a disparaging light (needing to be developed by those industrious Yanks and Spaniards), academics from the same period spoke of the burgeoning independence movement after the Spanish American War.
I don't think the article does justice to the efforts of the students; I never was able to get a hold of any of them. But their work was impressive...See info here.
Also, the University of Chicago Oriental Institute is running an exhibition on the looting of Iraq's past until December, which I wrote about here in a column for New City alt-Weekly.
Coalition forces are documented as not stopping tbe looting the elements of Iraqi history, and ultimately civilization writ large. This as New Conservatives talked about building a democratic society. There's some irony.
In the news, Big oil companies are now "negotiating" no-bid oil contracts in Iraq, one sees the real reason we went to war... The results of these negotiations will be known Monday.
I digress...
The University of Chicago exhibition is worthwhile for a cold/rainy day. Or someday when you don't feel like going outside and want to be cynical, yet informed. Cynicism and knowledge are far from mutually exclusive. For more about location, etc., click here.
Today's weather, however, is beautiful. And I'm not feeling like reveling in my cynicism. Perhaps tomorrow.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Garden Fresh brings you Distopia and Banality in Shiny Packages
Garden Fresh art gallery, in the west loop, features to pleasantly sardonic artists 'till March 1.
As reviewed by yours truly:
Holly Holmes gives graphical commentary on the dissolution of a idealized versions of our world thanks to the forces of humanity. Nuclear cooling towers, skyscrapers, and beer bottles break idyllic scenes of a school of fish, a country sunset, and glacial wildlife. The childish-like painting in some works seem to make a statement about the human impact on the world. Is pollution a bastardization of our childlike idealism? Are we taking something for granted through short-sighted disregard for environment? Or was the artist just having fun?
A forest of chopped trees and striped green clouds awaits...
Mike Lash plays with pop culture references, juxtapositioning, and boobies to comment on little lies that parents tell their children and the dumbing up of human experience. His textual-based prints and paintings are worth seeing simply for being on one hand, banal, on the other hand, happily schizophrenic.
At the exhibit, Lash kindly shared merlot and rye whiskey to keep the gears spinning. Can't promise you the same luck...
As reviewed by yours truly:
Holly Holmes gives graphical commentary on the dissolution of a idealized versions of our world thanks to the forces of humanity. Nuclear cooling towers, skyscrapers, and beer bottles break idyllic scenes of a school of fish, a country sunset, and glacial wildlife. The childish-like painting in some works seem to make a statement about the human impact on the world. Is pollution a bastardization of our childlike idealism? Are we taking something for granted through short-sighted disregard for environment? Or was the artist just having fun?
A forest of chopped trees and striped green clouds awaits...
Mike Lash plays with pop culture references, juxtapositioning, and boobies to comment on little lies that parents tell their children and the dumbing up of human experience. His textual-based prints and paintings are worth seeing simply for being on one hand, banal, on the other hand, happily schizophrenic.
At the exhibit, Lash kindly shared merlot and rye whiskey to keep the gears spinning. Can't promise you the same luck...
Can't I take a shower?
Tribune columnist John Kass lathered up city hall Wednesday to see if he could use Bennett Johnson's shower. Johnson, the Chicago Budget Director, recently installed a shower in his office with possible use of public money.
Kass's stunt (with video!) is a hilarious look at wasteful spending in Chicago, while rising sales and property taxes creep up on the city's residents before the pending recession.
Carrying his towel and Irish Spring soap, Kass asks things like,
"Can't I take a shower?" It's being funded with taxpayer money after all.
"Where's Bennett, I'd like to talk to him?"
"How many people can fit in the shower"
Are there warming lights to stay warm when you get out?
Johnson's spokeswoman, Wendy Abrams, responded to nearly all of Kass's requests, "That's a fair question. I can't answer that right now, but I will give you an answer by the end of the day."
Pleasantly stalling...
Mayor Daley's administration, meanwhile, claims Johnson is footing the >$5000 bill for the shower, as stated in the Tribune.
Kass's stunt (with video!) is a hilarious look at wasteful spending in Chicago, while rising sales and property taxes creep up on the city's residents before the pending recession.
Carrying his towel and Irish Spring soap, Kass asks things like,
"Can't I take a shower?" It's being funded with taxpayer money after all.
"Where's Bennett, I'd like to talk to him?"
"How many people can fit in the shower"
Are there warming lights to stay warm when you get out?
Johnson's spokeswoman, Wendy Abrams, responded to nearly all of Kass's requests, "That's a fair question. I can't answer that right now, but I will give you an answer by the end of the day."
Pleasantly stalling...
Mayor Daley's administration, meanwhile, claims Johnson is footing the >$5000 bill for the shower, as stated in the Tribune.
Friday, February 8, 2008
The Cap Times reinvents itself
Madison's progressive afternoon daily will never be the same. The Cap Times announced yesterday that it would cease six-day production of its afternoon print edition, following a trend of demises for afternoon dailies across the country. The paper will primarily have an online presence starting in April, with two weekly tabloid versions inside its competitor the State Journal. Though seemingly grim news, the change isn't necessarily a bad thing.
"Many people think that in order to be powerful, a journalist has to reach a huge audience," said Ellen Hume, Research Director of the Center for Future Civic Media, in a speech at West Bohemia University. "No, in order to be powerful, a journalist has to reach the audience that can make a difference to an issue. It can be one person."
Formerly as an intern and contributor, and always as a reader of the Cap Times, I see the the paper filling a needed watchdog role. With Madison's popular progressive readership, the paper has featured such stories as an expose on the doctor abuse within the prison system, the hidden costs behind charity fund raisers, unsavory lobbying of the state cable bill, and more. It's hard to think that silencing such a voice would be acceptable to readers.
Despite a low paper circulation hovering around 17,000, the State Journal's needed subsidies, and high number of staff, the Cap Times could be economically viable as an online product.
From my own experience, online readership of the Cap Times is hardly waning. As an intern, I read responses to my articles (hate mail and otherwise) from NY, UK, CA...A story jointly written by city editor Chris Murphy and I on one of Sen. Feingold's listen sessions caught tens of thousands of hits online within a couple of days.
The news organization has also shown some innovation last spring in revamping its style. Tighter columns on its Web site allowing for more easy online reading, page format seems much less cluttered, and a quick reader response feature gives a nod to bloggers. John Nichols gave live-blogging a go during municipal elections last spring and the staff is toying with video editorials.
Among other things that could be useful are a hyperlink sharing features for blogging and social networking sites (Facebook, Digg, Blogger, Newsvine tabs) and permalinks for stories. As if Shauna didn't have enough to do...
The main competitor for the Cap Times will be thedailypage.com, for which I've also written. Both present a more progressive viewpoint, not afraid to bring fire to a debate on local politics or fallacies in the justice system. But thedailypage.com is strictly local, featuring more arts and entertainment than news. Cap Times could show broader reach into state politics.
Breaking news could be where Cap Times will hold it's niche. Prior agreements with the State Journal have allowed it to seize on breaking news of the day. Whether this agreement changes?? Also, with no paper product, the local news shouldn't be subject to a noon deadline anymore.
The toughest part of the changeover at Cap Times will be staff cuts. Online publishing decreases the need for as many staff, but a short-staffed editorial department could hinder content.
Such is the nature of the old guard of newspapers unless there is consolidation across media, something that the progressive paper won't do. Here in Chicago, there's cuts at the Sun-Times (also due to stupid business decisions) and Sam Zell's purchase of Tribune Co. is allowing a media empire to stay competitive (possibly to the detriment of the %#@&ing news).
With all the economic bogymen in today's news world, Cap Times still has a leg to stand on. And it should keep on fighting.
"Many people think that in order to be powerful, a journalist has to reach a huge audience," said Ellen Hume, Research Director of the Center for Future Civic Media, in a speech at West Bohemia University. "No, in order to be powerful, a journalist has to reach the audience that can make a difference to an issue. It can be one person."
Formerly as an intern and contributor, and always as a reader of the Cap Times, I see the the paper filling a needed watchdog role. With Madison's popular progressive readership, the paper has featured such stories as an expose on the doctor abuse within the prison system, the hidden costs behind charity fund raisers, unsavory lobbying of the state cable bill, and more. It's hard to think that silencing such a voice would be acceptable to readers.
Despite a low paper circulation hovering around 17,000, the State Journal's needed subsidies, and high number of staff, the Cap Times could be economically viable as an online product.
From my own experience, online readership of the Cap Times is hardly waning. As an intern, I read responses to my articles (hate mail and otherwise) from NY, UK, CA...A story jointly written by city editor Chris Murphy and I on one of Sen. Feingold's listen sessions caught tens of thousands of hits online within a couple of days.
The news organization has also shown some innovation last spring in revamping its style. Tighter columns on its Web site allowing for more easy online reading, page format seems much less cluttered, and a quick reader response feature gives a nod to bloggers. John Nichols gave live-blogging a go during municipal elections last spring and the staff is toying with video editorials.
Among other things that could be useful are a hyperlink sharing features for blogging and social networking sites (Facebook, Digg, Blogger, Newsvine tabs) and permalinks for stories. As if Shauna didn't have enough to do...
The main competitor for the Cap Times will be thedailypage.com, for which I've also written. Both present a more progressive viewpoint, not afraid to bring fire to a debate on local politics or fallacies in the justice system. But thedailypage.com is strictly local, featuring more arts and entertainment than news. Cap Times could show broader reach into state politics.
Breaking news could be where Cap Times will hold it's niche. Prior agreements with the State Journal have allowed it to seize on breaking news of the day. Whether this agreement changes?? Also, with no paper product, the local news shouldn't be subject to a noon deadline anymore.
The toughest part of the changeover at Cap Times will be staff cuts. Online publishing decreases the need for as many staff, but a short-staffed editorial department could hinder content.
Such is the nature of the old guard of newspapers unless there is consolidation across media, something that the progressive paper won't do. Here in Chicago, there's cuts at the Sun-Times (also due to stupid business decisions) and Sam Zell's purchase of Tribune Co. is allowing a media empire to stay competitive (possibly to the detriment of the %#@&ing news).
With all the economic bogymen in today's news world, Cap Times still has a leg to stand on. And it should keep on fighting.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
F&$@ your covering important issues
Sara Fajardo, an Orlando Sentinel photographer, received an F-bomb for asking about journalism's obligation to inform communities about social issues and political detritus. Tribune Co.'s new Chief Executive Sam Zell delivered the F-bomb in what would have been an otherwise interesting exchange on the state of the news.
Here's the exchange.
UW alumnus and Chicago Tribune columnist, Phil Rosenthal, pointed out how Zell's response raises questions about his ability to respect the Tribune Co.'s new value on questioning authority. If journalists are going to ask him his views on creating awareness as well as revenue. Will they always be told to fuck off?
The audience applauded Zell's response, as he was bringing up a good point. Journalists may have to cater to public whim, reporting on fluff events that the public wants, in order to bring in enough revenue to do investigative pieces, cover social/political problems.
But the point was lost when he acted like a belligerent drunk.
Perhaps a better thought that could have come out of this is that journalists must consider how they report rather than on what. Newspapers cover fluff, but is that what the public really wants?
Perhaps newspapers should consider writing with a more lively tone. Objectivity is a good thing, but perhaps it stifles analysis and can lead to the mind-numbing "he said, she said" story. I don't mean leaving some points of view out, but stories sometimes don't distinguish between which perspective holds more water given evidence.
Perhaps the solution for newspapers is interactive online media. Hyperlinks, videos, and blogs/forums allow the reader to see an event or issue first hand, and comment on it instead of just reading and believing. I know many alternative weeklies, e-magazines, small progressive newspapers, and professional blogs who've done this well...
Recently fired L.A. Times editor Jim O'Shea commented on the state of mass journalism much more eloquently as he made his way out of the door:
However, O'Shea also wrote how Zell is a smart businessman who would likely come around to see his point of view...
Here's the exchange.
"What readers want are puppy dogs," Fajardo said, alluding to soft feature stories. "We also need to inform the community."
"I'm sorry," Zell responded. "But you're giving me the classic, what I would call, journalistic arrogance by deciding that puppies don't count. I don't know anything about puppies. What I'm interested in is how can we generate additional interest in our products and additional revenue so we can make our product better and better and hopefully we get to the point where our revenue is so significant that we can do puppies and Iraq. Fuck you."
UW alumnus and Chicago Tribune columnist, Phil Rosenthal, pointed out how Zell's response raises questions about his ability to respect the Tribune Co.'s new value on questioning authority. If journalists are going to ask him his views on creating awareness as well as revenue. Will they always be told to fuck off?
The audience applauded Zell's response, as he was bringing up a good point. Journalists may have to cater to public whim, reporting on fluff events that the public wants, in order to bring in enough revenue to do investigative pieces, cover social/political problems.
But the point was lost when he acted like a belligerent drunk.
Perhaps a better thought that could have come out of this is that journalists must consider how they report rather than on what. Newspapers cover fluff, but is that what the public really wants?
Perhaps newspapers should consider writing with a more lively tone. Objectivity is a good thing, but perhaps it stifles analysis and can lead to the mind-numbing "he said, she said" story. I don't mean leaving some points of view out, but stories sometimes don't distinguish between which perspective holds more water given evidence.
Perhaps the solution for newspapers is interactive online media. Hyperlinks, videos, and blogs/forums allow the reader to see an event or issue first hand, and comment on it instead of just reading and believing. I know many alternative weeklies, e-magazines, small progressive newspapers, and professional blogs who've done this well...
Recently fired L.A. Times editor Jim O'Shea commented on the state of mass journalism much more eloquently as he made his way out of the door:
"The current system relies too heavily on voodoo economics and not enough on the creativity and resourcefulness of journalists," he said, Too often "we've been dismissed as budgetary adolescents who can't be trusted to conserve our resources."
However, O'Shea also wrote how Zell is a smart businessman who would likely come around to see his point of view...
Monday, February 4, 2008
Interactive Democracy from a Newspaper, No Way!
As a relatively recent resident here in Chi-town, I'm frustrated by the amount I don't know about local politics. That's where the Chicago Tribune comes in to enlighten my civic duty.
Atop it's home page, the Tribune provides a nifty Voter Guide where I can find out who I'm voting for, their Web pages, and some information.
All I have to do in punch in my address and off to the democracy train! Basically the info provided on candidates is little more than sound bites...and for some candidates, the only supplemental information is who the tribune endorsed...
Newspapers, for better or worse, have always played a role in elections, sometimes vital and informative, sometimes propagandist. From the Revolution's print workshop to the 19th century party press, to yellow and watchdog journalism of the 20th.
Due to political parties' growing lack of resonance, the media has took on a new role as the filter for candidates, their reputations, their ideas. Where would we be without the horserace, Billary, Obama's snub?, Mitt's "conservatism," islamofascism, Brit Hume and Mickey Mouse?
For those of us in Chicago, check out the superfun live-action way to get your voting on. "Learn" from the Trib, print your choices off and take your guide to the polls Feb. 5. Just take the endorsements and information, or lack thereof, with a grain of salt.
For more info on voting, candidates, instructions, etc., check out the Chicago Board of Elections Commissioners. Find out where to vote here or call (312) 269-7900.
P.S. I miss the Isthmus-published League of Women Voters guides in Madison.
Atop it's home page, the Tribune provides a nifty Voter Guide where I can find out who I'm voting for, their Web pages, and some information.
All I have to do in punch in my address and off to the democracy train! Basically the info provided on candidates is little more than sound bites...and for some candidates, the only supplemental information is who the tribune endorsed...
Newspapers, for better or worse, have always played a role in elections, sometimes vital and informative, sometimes propagandist. From the Revolution's print workshop to the 19th century party press, to yellow and watchdog journalism of the 20th.
Due to political parties' growing lack of resonance, the media has took on a new role as the filter for candidates, their reputations, their ideas. Where would we be without the horserace, Billary, Obama's snub?, Mitt's "conservatism," islamofascism, Brit Hume and Mickey Mouse?
For those of us in Chicago, check out the superfun live-action way to get your voting on. "Learn" from the Trib, print your choices off and take your guide to the polls Feb. 5. Just take the endorsements and information, or lack thereof, with a grain of salt.
For more info on voting, candidates, instructions, etc., check out the Chicago Board of Elections Commissioners. Find out where to vote here or call (312) 269-7900.
P.S. I miss the Isthmus-published League of Women Voters guides in Madison.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Presidential Politics - Who needs Media Matters when you have Jon Stewart
As we're in two wars and threatening another, facing a larger gap between rich and poor, recession, and unaffordable health care, the campaign is reaching a new schoolyardish vibe.
Kucinich is being kicked out of the debate, and thus the race. Edwards is being sidelined. Ron Paul is branded a crazy survivalist. McCain is being called unelectable by the party faithful because he is against torture. Bill Clinton is spouting off about the fantasy that is the Obama campaign and Bill's enjoying the fight between Barak and Hillary, while his Hillary is making Obama guilty by association for receiving donations from a federally indicted slumlord. Obama, for his part, allegedly has campaign staffers hassling Clinton supporters.
The campaign, governance is really not about policy, but the horse race.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
MCA, Maps, and Metamorphoses
"Mapping the Self," now featured at the Chicago Museum of Contemporary Art is an interesting, if not always beautiful look at how artists conceptualize cultural and political themes through the use of geography and space. It was impossible to include all the works in my review, given the plenitude of artistic displays. So if you are going to visit, take a good 1.5-2 hours at least. Also, if you are constrained by budgets, check it out on a Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., when it is sponsored by our friends at Target.
You could also try pretending that you write reviews for a local alt-weekly. But they may check IDs....
One of the pieces that I didn't have the space to review was a one connecting relationships with the Great Wall of China. The Yugoslavian artist (I forgot the name, so go see the exhibit) and her partner started walking at opposite points on the wall toward each other. At the place that they met, which is featured in a photograph, they chose to end their relationship.
The poignant metaphor was that geographic and large external phenomena often determine people's fates more than anything within human control.
It was probably the most beautiful breakup that I'd ever witnessed...
You could also try pretending that you write reviews for a local alt-weekly. But they may check IDs....
One of the pieces that I didn't have the space to review was a one connecting relationships with the Great Wall of China. The Yugoslavian artist (I forgot the name, so go see the exhibit) and her partner started walking at opposite points on the wall toward each other. At the place that they met, which is featured in a photograph, they chose to end their relationship.
The poignant metaphor was that geographic and large external phenomena often determine people's fates more than anything within human control.
It was probably the most beautiful breakup that I'd ever witnessed...
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Birthplace of Hip-Hop, under siege
DJ Kool Herc, father of hip hop, aka Clive Campbell popped up in the news today because real estate mogul, Mark Karasick, wants to buy the apartment complex where Herc started it all.
In the summer of 1973, Herc built a hi-fi sound system and threw the first Hip Hop dance party. Having heard him speak over the summer to UW-Madison's First Wave Spoken Word Learning Community, he explained that the event was about bringing people of many musical tastes together in a progressive celebration.
Nowadays, residents and benefactors of the working class birthplace, 1520 Sedgwick Avenue are suspicious. What does a guy who has made real estate deals with Donald Trump want with a working-class apartment complex? Will he come in and gentrify it? raise the rents? change the character?
US Sen. Chuck Shumer, D-NY, joins the Urban Homesteading Assistance Board in a plea to buy the property with the help of city funds.
The movement reminds me of Humboldt Park's revulsion of gentrification over here in Chicago, "Humboldt Park No Se Vende!"
In the summer of 1973, Herc built a hi-fi sound system and threw the first Hip Hop dance party. Having heard him speak over the summer to UW-Madison's First Wave Spoken Word Learning Community, he explained that the event was about bringing people of many musical tastes together in a progressive celebration.
"Don't smoke pot in here. You got a problem with someone, take it outside.".
Nowadays, residents and benefactors of the working class birthplace, 1520 Sedgwick Avenue are suspicious. What does a guy who has made real estate deals with Donald Trump want with a working-class apartment complex? Will he come in and gentrify it? raise the rents? change the character?
US Sen. Chuck Shumer, D-NY, joins the Urban Homesteading Assistance Board in a plea to buy the property with the help of city funds.
The movement reminds me of Humboldt Park's revulsion of gentrification over here in Chicago, "Humboldt Park No Se Vende!"
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Art Shows
Among a myriad of other activities, I write reviews on art exhibitions for New City Chicago alt-weekly. This show by Susan Kraut was uplifting, slightly impressionistic, and I recommend anyone in the Chicago area to drop by when they are feeling contemplative or need and inebriating pick-me up. Images of Italy are imprinted with warm and cold moody colors that more show the emotional state of the artist and statements about life than a realistic portrayal.
Taking them in just kind of makes you feel good.
Taking them in just kind of makes you feel good.
Democracy in America, Skewered
Well, I can safely say that I've taken a look at the candidates following the Iowa Caucus and think that all the front-runners are putzes. However I do precurser this diatribe by saying that I think Obama is the least putzy.
Obama emerged with a wide lead over Clinton and Edwards, jump starting the brand new overarching theme that America wants Change! Really? You think? While Edwards has been spouting off talking points with his po' boy accent, he called Clinton part of the big status quo.
Meanwhile, in a debate about an issue that is driving American citizens nuts with worry, if not driving them into a second mortgage with jacked interest rates, let's talk about health care.... Video courtesy of crooksandliars.com.
Clinton attacks Obama for not mandating health care for adults because that "wouldn't make the system universal," (Obama is flipflopping). Whereas Clinton points out that Obama requires children to be covered, thus making it a two class system where children are covered and adults aren't.
Obama shoots back that he doesn't think people are opting out of health care because of a freewill decision, but because they can't afford to have a doctor give them a pill for $300. Let's focus on the high costs, but perhaps a mandate would further distance the public?
Obama maybe has a point. And a mandate for children's coverage makes sense given their complete lack of money, and no choice in the matter. Hillary tries in vain to point out the loophole in this logic: so adults have a choice but kids don't, so that's why it should be mandatory for kids? I thought you said choice wasn't the issue.
Admist the circle of logical struggle, Obama, as the brand spanking new "frontrunner," extends the peaceful message of not distorting records but rather discussing differences in policy perspectives.
The following is fake dialogue meant to satirize the situation.
At this point in the campaign, all the stereotypes are coming out.
Obama is the promising new voice and frontrunner, spouting off much hot air. And hopeful hot air is still hot air. Edwards is cozying up to his future running mate. Still injecting the anti-corporate, yay working class feeling into the campaign.
Hillary is the wonkish shrew, casting off her pleasant facade and thus having her good points lost in the middle of a popularity contest.
And now lets get to the Republicans. Another live-action debate about an issue where US citizens are dying: War on Terror!
Ron Paul, another candidate that I admire/think is interesting, explains that perhaps fundamentalists abroad are angry with the US because we've interfered with their country, installing military bases, doling out weapons and protecting our resources by telling them how wonderful Jeffersonian democracy can be. See the future Taliban in the 1980s, or "Freedom Fighters," as Reagan liked to say.
Romney, who has more personalities with different positions than Sybil, says that Paul "just doesn't understand jihad." This coming from a guy that fights for gay rights, then says he's against them, fights for gun control, then boasts of his love for hunting-having shot a bird once or twice. I'm to think that this asshole understands Jihad?
I don't even want to get into Mayor 9/11's perspective. Most of his responses involve, "Hey, remember 9/11?" But here he says this "hardcore Islamist revulsion towards the states has nothing to do with our foreign policy (contrary to the 9/11 commission, mind you), but they're just bad people who need to be shown moderation.
Paul tries to explain the US policy-foreign revulsion link again: What if China came over with the best intentions and installed military bases here to change the backwardness of our society. We'd be pissed, right?
Romney, the Mormon love child shouts back with a stupid chuckle, "Your just feeding into their propaganda." Guiliani 9/11 chortles in approval for good measure.
"I've read their propaganda," said Romney with John Kerry-esque self-aggrandizement
Guiliani, Romney, Goebbels: The "Islamofascists" are against our freedom...
All in all, an iota of truth in all their perspectives. Fundamentalist Islam doesn't look too kindly on Western values, and perhaps they need to change. But is interference from a culture with which their at odds going to help? I'm inclined to say that a Muslim Martin Luther would be more productive than an Uncle Sam, but Martin Luther really doesn't have a concern about oil and national security.
I digress...Maybe these presidential candidates should have a similar conversation instead of attacking each others' patriotism or affinity for hunting...
Hey kids, speaking of propaganda. Check out the similarities in these photos between Romney and Mormon founder Joseph Smith.
On top of all the political chicanery, Bill O'Reilly accosted an Obama staffer! Wow, I need a cigarette. Shit! I can't smoke either in this democracy. Glad that we exported it to Iraq...
Obama emerged with a wide lead over Clinton and Edwards, jump starting the brand new overarching theme that America wants Change! Really? You think? While Edwards has been spouting off talking points with his po' boy accent, he called Clinton part of the big status quo.
Meanwhile, in a debate about an issue that is driving American citizens nuts with worry, if not driving them into a second mortgage with jacked interest rates, let's talk about health care.... Video courtesy of crooksandliars.com.
Clinton attacks Obama for not mandating health care for adults because that "wouldn't make the system universal," (Obama is flipflopping). Whereas Clinton points out that Obama requires children to be covered, thus making it a two class system where children are covered and adults aren't.
Obama shoots back that he doesn't think people are opting out of health care because of a freewill decision, but because they can't afford to have a doctor give them a pill for $300. Let's focus on the high costs, but perhaps a mandate would further distance the public?
Obama maybe has a point. And a mandate for children's coverage makes sense given their complete lack of money, and no choice in the matter. Hillary tries in vain to point out the loophole in this logic: so adults have a choice but kids don't, so that's why it should be mandatory for kids? I thought you said choice wasn't the issue.
Admist the circle of logical struggle, Obama, as the brand spanking new "frontrunner," extends the peaceful message of not distorting records but rather discussing differences in policy perspectives.
The following is fake dialogue meant to satirize the situation.
Obama: "Let's not fight, Hillary. Let's chat about our differences and enjoy the white powder. Remember how one of your staffers attacked me on my "blow problem," Obama jabs.
And Edwards chimes in as his perpetual running mate self, backing up Obama agaist their newfound, common foe.
Edwards: "Hillary, you're just bitching because you're losing; I like Barak."
Hillary: "At least I'm not a stupid campaign slogan," retorts Hillary.
At this point in the campaign, all the stereotypes are coming out.
Obama is the promising new voice and frontrunner, spouting off much hot air. And hopeful hot air is still hot air. Edwards is cozying up to his future running mate. Still injecting the anti-corporate, yay working class feeling into the campaign.
Hillary is the wonkish shrew, casting off her pleasant facade and thus having her good points lost in the middle of a popularity contest.
And now lets get to the Republicans. Another live-action debate about an issue where US citizens are dying: War on Terror!
Ron Paul, another candidate that I admire/think is interesting, explains that perhaps fundamentalists abroad are angry with the US because we've interfered with their country, installing military bases, doling out weapons and protecting our resources by telling them how wonderful Jeffersonian democracy can be. See the future Taliban in the 1980s, or "Freedom Fighters," as Reagan liked to say.
Romney, who has more personalities with different positions than Sybil, says that Paul "just doesn't understand jihad." This coming from a guy that fights for gay rights, then says he's against them, fights for gun control, then boasts of his love for hunting-having shot a bird once or twice. I'm to think that this asshole understands Jihad?
I don't even want to get into Mayor 9/11's perspective. Most of his responses involve, "Hey, remember 9/11?" But here he says this "hardcore Islamist revulsion towards the states has nothing to do with our foreign policy (contrary to the 9/11 commission, mind you), but they're just bad people who need to be shown moderation.
Paul tries to explain the US policy-foreign revulsion link again: What if China came over with the best intentions and installed military bases here to change the backwardness of our society. We'd be pissed, right?
Romney, the Mormon love child shouts back with a stupid chuckle, "Your just feeding into their propaganda." Guiliani 9/11 chortles in approval for good measure.
"I've read their propaganda," said Romney with John Kerry-esque self-aggrandizement
Guiliani, Romney, Goebbels: The "Islamofascists" are against our freedom...
All in all, an iota of truth in all their perspectives. Fundamentalist Islam doesn't look too kindly on Western values, and perhaps they need to change. But is interference from a culture with which their at odds going to help? I'm inclined to say that a Muslim Martin Luther would be more productive than an Uncle Sam, but Martin Luther really doesn't have a concern about oil and national security.
I digress...Maybe these presidential candidates should have a similar conversation instead of attacking each others' patriotism or affinity for hunting...
Hey kids, speaking of propaganda. Check out the similarities in these photos between Romney and Mormon founder Joseph Smith.
On top of all the political chicanery, Bill O'Reilly accosted an Obama staffer! Wow, I need a cigarette. Shit! I can't smoke either in this democracy. Glad that we exported it to Iraq...
Monday, November 19, 2007
President Chuck Norris
I have to say, Mike Huckabee's new ad is brilliant. That the red-state everyman Chuck Norris names Huckabee to be the best at protecting conservative values, the border, and 2nd amendment rights is savvy, given Huckabee's propensity to portray himself as the man's man, working class, ordinary guy. Plus, even liberals can appreciate the "Chuck Norris Tackled Rabid Wolves for Excercise" jokes.
Of course, I don't agree with much of Huckabee's platform. The talk of Islamofacism, Straight Marriage Amendment, and "consumer-based" health care is oversimplified. Increasing military budgets and army deployments, US v Them mentality, is not going to change hearts and minds in disagreements with the Islamic world. Regaining diplomatic credo abroad means closing Guantanamo Bay and stopping torture. Creationism is not a solid theory for our existence. And government oughta stay out of the bedroom where those involved can legally consent.
The next ad should feature Chuck Norris fighting hand-to-hand with the evolutionary monkey, both flinging poo at each other.
Of course, I don't agree with much of Huckabee's platform. The talk of Islamofacism, Straight Marriage Amendment, and "consumer-based" health care is oversimplified. Increasing military budgets and army deployments, US v Them mentality, is not going to change hearts and minds in disagreements with the Islamic world. Regaining diplomatic credo abroad means closing Guantanamo Bay and stopping torture. Creationism is not a solid theory for our existence. And government oughta stay out of the bedroom where those involved can legally consent.
The next ad should feature Chuck Norris fighting hand-to-hand with the evolutionary monkey, both flinging poo at each other.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Charitable Cops Care about Chicago
Chicago police officers clashed with former pro-basketball players on the court this morning, getting slain in the process. Well, sort of...
The nine officers and group of pros were playing at Fosco Park for "Give Something Back," a food drive to feed needy families this Thanksgiving. About 100 people showed up, each bringing three non-perishable foodstuffs for admission. Proceeds were donated to Antioch Missionary Baptist Church.
"This is our fifth time hosting this benefit," said Chicago police officer Eddie Chapman, who organized the event. "It's about helping out the community."
Former NBA players, and Chicago natives, Rickey Green Mitchel J.J. Anderson, Mickey Johnson, and Tim Hardaway were some of those featured on the pro-team. Also on the team was Chicago Public Schools CEO Arne Duncan, who played pro-basketball in Australia.
The show was entertaining, with many of the pros having a blast slamming the backboards, and confusing the cops with behind-the-back passes and fake-outs. Around half-time, the scored was around 50-23, pros. But toward the end, I think the cops got a break. The pros let them have a few free passes to down some lay-ups.
It ended not being too brutal for the cops, but a table full of food was the real goal. Everyone seemed to be having a good time.
Here's some shots:
The Chicago Police Department All-Stars
The Former Professionals chanting "1, 2, 3, Charity!"
Officer Eddie Chapman puts up a free-throw.
The results...
The nine officers and group of pros were playing at Fosco Park for "Give Something Back," a food drive to feed needy families this Thanksgiving. About 100 people showed up, each bringing three non-perishable foodstuffs for admission. Proceeds were donated to Antioch Missionary Baptist Church."This is our fifth time hosting this benefit," said Chicago police officer Eddie Chapman, who organized the event. "It's about helping out the community."
Former NBA players, and Chicago natives, Rickey Green Mitchel J.J. Anderson, Mickey Johnson, and Tim Hardaway were some of those featured on the pro-team. Also on the team was Chicago Public Schools CEO Arne Duncan, who played pro-basketball in Australia.
The show was entertaining, with many of the pros having a blast slamming the backboards, and confusing the cops with behind-the-back passes and fake-outs. Around half-time, the scored was around 50-23, pros. But toward the end, I think the cops got a break. The pros let them have a few free passes to down some lay-ups.
It ended not being too brutal for the cops, but a table full of food was the real goal. Everyone seemed to be having a good time.
Here's some shots:
The Chicago Police Department All-Stars
The Former Professionals chanting "1, 2, 3, Charity!"
Officer Eddie Chapman puts up a free-throw.
The results...
Monday, November 5, 2007
I "heart" Irony
I really think post cards are usually the most useless piece of mail besides "Free AOL" disks or Geiko car insurance offers.
Some jerk wants you to know that they had a lovely time on a beach as you froze your ass off working at a soul-sucking job in Neenah, Wis.
Then you get cards that basically make fun of themselves, and the whole idea of there being this far-off relaxing utopia. Particularly if they are postcards from Wisconsin, Indiana, Minnesota, or Detroit.
Awhile back, this card from a good friend made my day:
I had sent him one from Indiana saying that my girlfriend and I had driven through the state and eaten things.
Some jerk wants you to know that they had a lovely time on a beach as you froze your ass off working at a soul-sucking job in Neenah, Wis.
Then you get cards that basically make fun of themselves, and the whole idea of there being this far-off relaxing utopia. Particularly if they are postcards from Wisconsin, Indiana, Minnesota, or Detroit.
Awhile back, this card from a good friend made my day:
I had sent him one from Indiana saying that my girlfriend and I had driven through the state and eaten things.
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