Greg Brian
Online freelance writer who most notably writes for Yahoo! Contributor Network, Yahoo! Movies, Yahoo! TV, plus Demand Media's numerous properties. He's also available to write articles for private clients, and can be reached at gregoriancant@hotmail.com. Terms are negotiable.
As ground central for this author's serious & comedic insights, go to Twitter.com/gregoriancant.
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As ground central for this author's serious & comedic insights, go to Twitter.com/gregoriancant.
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Associate Degree in Business ManagementInterests
Arts and humanities; the history of film, music, television, art, theater; sociological issues; science; philosophy; politics; satire; absurdist comedyMotto
Searching for the meaning of life is the meaning of life.
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Fresh New Year's Eve Traditions for Those Who Fear the Arrival of 2012New Year's Eve has had the same traditions around the world for decades. What happens, though, when a certain year breeds fear? According to polls, 2012 is bringing on all new traditions that feed on nothing but fear itself.
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Mia Wasikowska's Villain in NY Times Video Gallery: Oh, the Villains She Could PlayWhen the New York Times featured A-list stars as famous villains, it included a surprising Mia Wasikowska doing an eerie turn as Carole from "Repulsion." Now it sets off the potentials of villains she could play, even if adhering to the code of remakes.
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Christmas Cactuses: How to Make Them Blossom During the Christmas SeasonYou may know that plants are more human than you ever wanted to admit. But Christmas cacti will surprise you in how similar they are to most of us, especially around the holidays. You won't know, however, unless you take care of them properly.
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Evolution of Black Friday: From the Past to the Future of Black Thanksgiving & Cyber MondayBlack Friday has a strong history, a strange present and an even stranger future if shopping trends continue. If Thanksgiving might be threatened now, a possible future shopping trend could ultimately bring a blessing.
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Other Occupy Groups for Winter 2011-12: Factions from Occupy Wall Street FactionsIt might be a miracle that 2011's Occupy Wall Street splinter groups have progressed as far as they have. But the result of it is leading to more Occupy factions into 2012. Most of them are intent on correcting wrongs that are still in the shadows.
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Steve Jobs’ Method of Thought: Will it Be Teachable Through a New Apple University?The thought process of Steve Jobs was unique, despite others before him having similar technique. Teaching that thought through an upcoming Apple University will be an educational challenge. Then again, the screenplay of Apple's future isn't written yet. -
Actress Mia Wasikowska's Acting Style: The Public Divide of Histrionics Over SubtletyActing in movies hasn't evolved all that far when you look at its timeline. Open emoting has long been a mainstay. Actress Mia Wasikowska, however, has turned acting on its ear with emoting through a blank face. It's creating a divide among moviegoers. -
Common Man Careers on Reality Shows: Trumping the Rich and RepugnantThe modern reality show started a decade ago, but it's slowly degraded itself to showing wealthy people we shouldn't care about. That's changing, however, to the showcasing of the common man career. It could soon lead to watching reality as we know it. -
The Debt Commission Super Committee: Play-by-Play of the Greatest Mind GameIf you think the upcoming debt commission super committee can't have play-by-play as a major sport, you haven't seen everything. The Federation of Debt Debate Athletics league wants you to tune in right now with beer and pretzels. -
'Rise of the Planet of the Apes' Sequel: The Potentials of Caesar as U.S. PresidentWith the "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" remake, an inevitable sequel should differ from what the original movies said would happen to human civilization. Along with economic disparity, there may be an attempt to uphold a status quo. -
Summer in the Parks: Photography from Public Parks in Oregon's Willamette ValleyOregon's 2011 summer may be cooler than the rest of the country, but it doesn't stop Willamette Valley residents from visiting their underrated parks. Take a look at the parks and their visitors through my photographic eye. -
The End of Borders: Resurgence of Indie Bookstores and Possible Slowdown of E-ReadersWith Borders closing, we're seeing the passing of a once solid opportunity: Creating the perfect balance between digital and print. Independent bookstores now have a chance to take this and bask in a new renaissance. -
The Upcoming Lytro Light-Field Camera: A Cheat or New Path in Photography?Technology in photography keeps evolving, and with that comes the shaping of philosophy behind what makes a perfect photograph. The upcoming Lytro camera may forward that, but only if we let it. -
Infidelities in International Politics: The New Acceptability of Unacceptable ActsFrance and America may seem far apart in forgiving infidelities of male politicians. However, when we compare the Arnold Schwarzenegger case with the Dominique Strauss-Kahn case, we may be moving along the same lines. -
Hunting a Dictator: Symbolic Spying Tips Using Pop Culture and a Fairy TaleRuthless dictators continue to claim they can't be caught. And while they usually aren't for sometimes years, patterns of pursuance are usually the same. The Gingerbread Man fairy tale and James Bond tell you everything you need to know. -
Osama Bin Laden Unreleased Death Pictures: A New Test to Conspiracy TheoristsA new breed of conspiracy theorists called Deathers are now emerging as doubters of the death of Osama bin Laden. It's just one part of a long chain of conspiracy theorists who now have a test in trusting the government we know. -
The Perception Analyzer One Year Later: An Updated Interview with Dialsmith President, David PaullWith The Perception Analyzer being used on "The Celebrity Apprentice" this month, Portland, OR's Dialsmith President, David Paull, continues to expand the use of his real-time public opinion tools. I interview him one year later for a follow-up... -
Royal Wedding Protocol: How William & Kate Will Bring Royals Down to EarthThe Prince William and Kate Middleton wedding this month may be indefinitely changing how royal weddings should be conducted. All of it should be noted in a rule book so the details won't be forgotten. Fortunately, you now have one. -
Exit the Old SoulBeing an Old Soul is a phenomena that has nothing to do with reincarnation and everything to do with being misunderstood. Meet a girl named Mira Caruthers and her extended journey going from a stifled Old Soul to a free one.
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Japan's Fortitude in Facing Tsunami Tragedy: America's Learning Guide to CrisisJapan's ancient warriors may be long dead, but the philosophy they upheld lives on in the DNA of current generations facing 2011's tsunami disaster. Now that philosophy is manifesting in Japan while America struggles to create their own mental warrior. -
Future Adult Fairy Tale Movie Adaptations on Hollywood's SlateDespite critical bashing of 2011's "Red Riding Hood", adult fairy tales are now a new cottage industry for Hollywood. Some untapped stories from Mother Goose, Brothers Grimm, Hans Christian Andersen and Aesop are in the works. -
Charlie Sheen & Lindsay Lohan Move to Small Southern Town to Restore SanityThe word is that celebrities in Hollywood are finally realizing how living directly in Hollywood for decades causes insanity. Fortunately for them, a small town in North Carolina called Winning is opening their town to celebrities for a life of normalcy. -
Longtime British Wins at Oscars: "The King's Speech" Makes Up for 2010 Drought"The King's Speech" may say a lot more about film than just the speech of King George VI. There seems to be a very good reason why the Oscars award traditional British films, and it's nothing to do with non-linear "Social Network" scripts. -
Autonomous Revolts in Middle East: Will Future U.S. Intervention There Be Necessary?The revolts in the Middle East are bringing new ideas in how revolutions work. With this comes the new concept of a social network strategy possibly overcoming the region's military strategy. It's a concept that may work without America's intervention. -
Actors as Hosts for the Oscars: James Franco & Anne Hathaway as ComediansThe Academy Awards has a long history of comedians hosting the show, but also serious actors forced into being the comedic host. While that bombed the last time it was done, comedic understanding and timing may have evolved for the better. -
"American Idol" Season Ten Musical Chairs: Contestant Archetypes Move to the JudgesWith Season Ten of "American Idol", we see exactly what the rumors contended: Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez and Randy Jackson have assimilated the personalities of former judges. But is it real or desperate method acting? -
The Fear of Politics: Shooting of Rep. Giffords May Bring Dearth of Good CandidatesAfter the Tucson, Arizona shooting this month, fear became larger than the sum of its parts. Part of that fear extends to running for political office, even though it began already more than a decade ago. How to change it involves huge commitments. -
3D Cameras, Camcorders & Laptops for 2011: Superseding 3D Failure in MoviesIt seems 3D technology in movie theaters lives and dies about every twenty years. Whether that happens with 3D tech in the home is debatable. In the meantime, expect 3D cameras, camcorders and computers to soon invade your living rooms. -
2010 Christmas Decorations at the Capitol Building in Salem, OregonEvery Christmas season since 1981, the state capitol building in Salem, Oregon has had a large tree in its rotunda. Take a look at 2010's decorations and the magical ambiance state government can create during the holidays. -
The Best Christmas Carols Representing Peace to Play for a Christmas GatheringTurbulence in the world and having festive Christmas gatherings don't always go together well. In those cases, it's better to reflect the times we're living in through music. Try playing these four tranquil carols for a holiday sing-a-long and catharsis.
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The Battle of TSA Agent Pat-Downs and Airline Passengers Escalates to Civil WarIt shouldn't surprise us that a person traveling for the holidays might become belligerent after an overly adamant TSA pat-down in an airport. But would it snowball into a civil war in all of America's airports through the actions of one man and his wife? -
Thanksgiving Future: A Letter from an American Family Affected by Budget CutsRead a letter from Thanksgiving future; November 28, 2075. It's written by the college-age son of the Forthwith family; a family severely affected by a national bankruptcy and severe federal budget cuts. But they ultimately live up to their family name. -
"Conan" on TBS and the New Late-Night Landscape: Cable's Success or Mistake?TBS's "Conan" may change the late-night landscape for not only cable, but also the way musical chairs gets played in the rest of the late-night metropolis. Ask irony who falls in the final chair by 2012. -
Fines for Not Voting: Viable U.S. Method to Deter Voter Apathy or Losing a Right?Evidence is there that American voter apathy is worsening. But a resident in a small Colorado town wants to snowball the process of compulsory voting. Would it work wide in the U.S., or would the Supreme Court have to intervene more than once? -
Stephen Colbert & Jon Stewart's "Restore Sanity" D.C. Rally: A New Merge of Satire with RealityThe Colbert/Stewart "Restore Sanity" rally is likely going to change satire in ways that may put fear into wannabe satirists. But will it also change how the public views satire and perhaps the cable news networks? -
The 5th Annual Salem Film Festival in Oregon: Showcase for the Best in Indie FilmThe Salem Film Festival in Salem, Oregon has surprisingly grown to a prestigious celebration of independent film worldwide. For its 5th anniversary, it would do Hollywood well to see where the real ideas in film truly are. -
20 Years of IMDb.Com: A Serious & Satiric Look at the Movie Site's Famous FeaturesWith IMDb.com turning 20, we need a look back at the evolution of this influential movie info site and break it down to the core of its parts. Each component of the site has its sense of perfection as well as quirks that still require some refining. -
The Elaborate Hoax: 2010 as the Year Hoaxers Went Beyond Fooling the Masses2010 saw two major hoaxes through a film and in a real-life case that took fooling the public to an eerie new level. It's an unusual precedent that could lead to some unfortunate and also interesting outcomes in another few years. -
Stephen Hawking's No God as Universe Creator: New Public as Astrophysics TheoristsWhen Stephen Hawking's new book said the universe wasn't created by God, online forums lit up as the only forum for a public rebuttal. And with full, intuitive reasoning from the masses on universe creation, the people may get the final word... -
The Bankruptcy of Blockbuster: Finding Balance with Brick & Mortar and OnlineWith Blockbuster Video declaring bankruptcy and likely reorganizing into an online-only service, we may be on the brink of the entire retail experience going online. Is it really the result of the economy or evolution of customer service? -
Australia's Dominance in Hollywood: Newest Female Acting Talent in 2011Australian actors and actresses have been dominating Hollywood for at least a decade. But now new Aussie talent is arriving with intelligent approaches to acting craft. Take a look at the acting skills of Mia Wasikowska and Emily Browning... -
Nine Years After 9/11: Attempting Symbolic Reconciliation with Ground Zero MosqueThe Cordoba House Muslim mosque proposed for Ground Zero may seem offensive in theory, until we see forgotten symbolic reparations of the past. Many symbolic gestures were done right after and during conflicts as a successful foot forward... -
Increase of Hearing Loss in U.S. Prompts New Devices to Preserve EardrumsSociety has long accepted loud sounds until the media reminded us that we're all destroying our hearing. Recently, corporations and Hollywood have jumped on the bandwagon in creating devices that celebrate the concept of hearing preservation... -
Oppo's Blu-Ray DVD Players: Superior Quality Deserving to Lead the WayWhy do the familiar brand names of trouble-plagued Blu-Ray players dominate the marketplace and on every electronics store shelf? Oppo Digital has made the standout Blu-Ray player of the decade, but they inexplicably aren't found in any store... -
The Bigger Idea in Hollywood: Rise of Nolan and Fall of ShyamalanM. Night Shyamalan and Christopher Nolan seem to be the latest creative duo who think alike, yet giving way for one to prosper and the other to fall. Shyamalan may be the one out, unless he can diagnosis his own creative pipeline... -
Christmas in July Sales Tap into Psychology of Extended Holiday AnticipationChristmas in July sales in America aren't new, though increasing now more than ever. Is it an intentional act knowing Americans have the psychological condition of holiday anticipation? Earlier holiday sales may be around the corner...
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Oregon Coast Photography: Lincoln City's Nelscott Beach, Taft Bay, Depoe Bay and KernvilleAfter writing about the magic of the Oregon Coast for years, descriptions can only give way to the wonder of real images. Behold four Oregon Coast locales through my eye... -
Ft. Vancouver, WA Fireworks Revival Sparks Funding Fireworks with Portland, Oregon HotelsFt. Vancouver in Vancouver, WA has long been home to one of the largest fireworks displays on the U.S. west coast. Shut down in 2009 and resumed this year, funding now looks to those in Oregon who've long watched the show from the periphery... -
The Corporate Apology TV Ad: A New Art Form and Evolution of Saving FaceThe apologetic TV ad from mistake-plagued corporations has only been around for about ten years. While they started off well, BP ruined a formula that used to convince Americans of true contrition. Now that ad blueprint needs to be revised... -
"Lost" Finale & J.J. Abrams' Magic Mystery Box Technique: The Future Challenge for TVThe future of TV may change for the better after the final episode of "Lost." Thanks to J.J. Abrams' childhood Magic Mystery Box, a new kind of writing technique may combine information and imagination to help lead us to more deep-seeded answers. -
The Perception Analyzer®: Real-Time Public Opinion Tool Gets an UpgradeMy interview with David Paull, developer, distributor and promoter of a real-time public opinion tool that's been used on CNN, MSNBC and Fox News. His devices may eventually bring collective American thought without use of fragmented polls. -
Devolution of the Intellectual President: The Evolution of the Simpler IdeaA lot of intellectuals are still out there, ready to take the mantle of the U.S. Presidency. But they may have to sit it out and watch pragmatic Presidents take the White House for decades. In the meantime, America will prefer the simple idea... -
Why ABBA's Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame Honor Should Bring a One-Time ReunionMomentum for an ABBA reunion increased after the Swedish group was inducted into the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame in March. A pay-per-view reunion special would bring communion TV and a chance for the group to apply a little involuntary memory... -
NBC's "Who Do You Think You Are?" and the Obsession with Notable Family TreesGenealogy is always a popular undertaking, and even more so when the chances exist that you could be related to someone famous. But NBC's "Who Do You Think You Are?" gives you a different view of family lineage--as do I, courtesy of Ancestry.com... -
After the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, B.C.: Mending Canadian-U.S. TiesNBC's coverage of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, B.C. showed deep connections between America and Canada that many Americans likely didn't know. Will this and a perspective toward our mutual cultural ribbings sustain a deep and overdue respect? -
The Unofficial Glossary of Curling Terms and Their Inside MeaningsHave you gone to lengths to learn all the rules of Curling to join the fray of its popularity? You've only learned half of what those unusual terms really mean. Here's inside access to Curling term double meanings you won't learn anywhere else...
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2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, B.C. And Compromises Over the EnvironmentVancouver, B.C. is arguably one of the environmental diamonds of the world. With the 2010 Winter Olympics there, the battle over corporate structure and the environment is a new and future contentious issue that needs a new line of compromise... -
Apple Releases Plans for Their Next Major Invention: The ICarWhat happens when Apple and Steve Jobs decide to consolidate all of their technology into one invention? This satire looks at the iCar and the potential for not only dominating the car industry, but yet again cornering the double entendre market... -
The Years in ReviewIt's the years in review, the time when our life flashes before our eyes and brings us the essence of life at life's end--or perhaps long before then... -
Fix Your Broken Christmas Lights with the Lightkeeper Pro GunHow many China-made Christmas lights have you bought over the years that ended up having one section of the string going out after one year of use? The Lightkeeper Pro gun helps bring these lights back to life and helps usurp degraded quality... -
"Rudolph's" 45th & "Frosty's" 40th on TV: What Makes Them Endure?With CBS's "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "Frosty the Snowman" celebrating their 45th & 40th anniversaries, questions remain why they endure and why new specials like them don't succeed. It may be a willful act by today's TV writers...
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Playing Piano in a Mall for the Holidays: Temp Job Option or Victim of Economy?Pianists in malls during the holidays used to be assured employment for piano players until the economy cut it back. While that fluctuates annually, here's what you need to know to be successful at playing piano in a mall amid stressed consumers... -
How to Get Along with Your Family for a Meaningful & Peaceful ThanksgivingEverybody wants to have a perfect Thanksgiving with no family acrimony. But if full realization of such a thing is impossible, you can create something close with these tips--bringing a sense of thankfulness to those who hold familial grudges... -
Sesame Street Links Up with Fox News for a Special EpisodeWhen "Sesame Street" parodied Fox News with a segment of Pox News, the flak was inevitable. Here's a satire of what would happen should "Sesame Street" make amends with Fox News and feature their anchors in a very special episode...
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Australia's Possible Lip-Sync Law: Would a U.S. Law Benefit the Music Industry?With Australian law going after lip-syncing in the music industry to force concert promoters to admit it on ticket stubs, how would the American music industry fare if such a law formed here? -
How to Create an Effective Neighborhood Watch: Nighttime Patrol & Catching TerroristsThe neighborhood watch keeps evolving with the times and in how we view our communities. If we choose to realize our neighborhoods aren't utopia, these variations on the neighborhood watch can potentially bring something close... -
Peanuts Holiday Specials Now on DVD: The Magic of the Original CBS YearsThose who grew up watching all the Peanuts specials on CBS for 35 years may have had trouble adjusting seeing them on ABC starting in 2001 to present. Does it mean TV specials from our childhood work better in their original network context? -
She Sees Through the NightDo black cats really bring misfortune? They may at least see things in vast darkness we never thought them capable of seeing before. And what they see in the night may be misunderstood until the unknown interacts with one person. -
The TIGHAR Amelia Earhart Niku Expeditions: 20 Years of Searching on NikumaroroWhen the International Group for Historic Aircraft Recovery began expeditions on a Pacific atoll in 1989 to solve the Amelia Earhart mystery, evidence looked compelling. Since then, time and nature makes a satisfactory conclusion more challenging... -
ThisMan.Org Presents an Eerie Face People Worldwide Are Seeing in Their DreamsA mysterious website asking "Have You Dreamed This Man?" recently popped up in cyberspace. On the site, an eerie face is shown that people worldwide claim they see in their dreams. Or is this site a new method of viral marketing?
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SETI 50 Years Later: Search for Intelligent Life Could Lead to HomeThe Search for Intelligent Life program (SETI) just celebrated 50 years, even though the debates still linger over its usefulness. When philosophies eventually consolidate, should we look for intelligent life visiting us right here on Earth? -
The Movie 2012 and How the Line of Fiction & Reality in Film is ConvergingPredicting the future has been in movies going back to the earliest Sci-Fi. The John Cusack-starring movie "2012", though, seems to want to be the most prescient ever, even though it may set off a new philosophy in how we view the future... -
Trick-or-Treaters at Your Door: How to Handle the Good & Bad on HalloweenWe all have strange stories to tell about dealing with both cute and trouble-making trick-or-treaters on Halloween night. Here's tips on how to deal with any situation at your door so a meltdown of embarrassment doesn't put a pall on the evening... -
Michael Buble's "Crazy Love" Album Review: The Art of the Romantic BreakupNow that Michael Buble has everybody's attention, his newest album "Crazy Love" manages to capture his familiar style & vocal ability in full. Even if the song selections are subjective, the adherence to the Great American Songbook is still there...
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Breast Cancer Awareness: Arimidex as Most Powerful Anti-Estrogen DrugWhen the breast cancer treatment drug Arimidex became available the last few years, it ultimately became a much safer alternative to Tamoxifen. Now it's become one of the most powerful breast cancer drugs in place of more grueling chemotherapy. -
Tourist's Guide to Two of the Most Scenic National Parks in OregonIn Ken Burns' "The National Parks: U.S.'s Great Idea", we saw a major attempt to cover all 158 national parks in America. But the beautiful national parks in Oregon received shorter mention, despite being as profound as peering into the Grand Canyon... -
Old Political School Songs Found; Once Used to Praise the President of the U.S.When a grade school in New Jersey had kids sing a political praise song about Pres. Obama, critics didn't know similar Presidential songs had been sung in schools since the 1930's. With a recent find of those songs, history once again tempers rage... -
70th Anniversary of "Wizard of Oz" Brings Back 1990 TV Biopic on L. Frank BaumOut of all the bonus features the 70th anniversary box set of "The Wizard of Oz" contains, it's the inclusion of 1990's "The Dreamer of Oz" that's more notable. This biopic of L. Frank Baum and starring John Ritter deserves a bigger audience... -
Where the Wild Things Are as Method of Psychoanalysis for Anger in ChildrenWhile it's usually a rare idea, Maurice Sendak's classic "Where the Wild Things Are" appears to have had some revolutionary ideas about psychoanalysis. Was it showing a method for children to use the Jungian method to conquer emotions before adulthood? -
Carl Jung's Red Book Being Published: New Blueprint to Enhance CreativityWhat a shame that Carl Jung's Red Book, a rumored diary documenting his journey into the collective unconscious, wasn't available to the masses earlier. Now that it is, Hollywood should use it as a method to tap into higher creative realms. -
Temporary Stores: How to Make it a Model of Survival for a Small BusinessThe business model of a temporary store has been around a while, but usually only with Halloween or Christmas-themed stores. Now with Toys R Us creating hundreds of temp stores soon, the small business may want to step in to save themselves. -
Taking a Shower or a Bath: Which One Uses Less Energy and Gets You Cleaner?After reports that showerheads can spray bacteria on us while showering, some might have considered taking baths instead. The divide over baths and showers has become wider in recent years, despite surprises on which one is more energy efficient. -
The CDC Creates Alternative Options for Sneezing to Avoid H1N1After the CDC announced the armpit maneuver as the way to prevent a sneeze from going into the air, a million business suits were subsequently ruined. Henceforth are new procedures from the CDC to prevent a sneeze from being contagious... -
Katharine McPhee's Upcoming Album Unbroken Gets a Delay to January 2010When I wrote about Katharine McPhee last two years ago, I described her as a superstar yet to be a superstar. Now with her anticipated second album soon to arrive, that might be lifted - assuming releasing in January 2010 doesn't hurt sales. -
NBC's "Community": Community College as New Educational Hope in AmericaEven though NBC's new sitcom "Community" might show the absurd side of the community college in America, it's also a scathing look at the widening dichotomy between community colleges and major universities... -
The Renaissance of the Bow Tie and How to Make it Chic Instead of GeekWhen Chris Brown wore a bow tie on Larry King Live, it appeared to be a statement of atonement and studiousness. The truth is that the bow tie is making a new fashion statement for people who haven't a studious bone in their body. -
Thin Video Players in Magazines: Developing Tech that Could Save Print MediaWhen Entertainment Weekly utilized a thin video player in select issues this month, the future was set. But while it may look like "Minority Report" soon, print media's wish of dominating over internet may all depend on the presentation... -
Internet Addiction Recovery Program: A New Mental Health Clinic in WA StateOpening for business during the summer of this writing, the reSTART internet and gaming addiction clinic in WA state helps people balance technology with nature. Now we wait for addiction admittance and whether careers will be disrupted... -
CBS's The Good Wife: An Overdue View of Political Infidelities and ForgivenessCBS's new fall series "The Good Wife" might bring a strong female character to TV again. But its plot is quite a different universe from real political couples staying together of late after infidelities, although the show may provide answers as to why. -
Graphic PSA's and New Ways to Use Reality in Making a DifferenceAfter the world was stunned by Britain's ultra graphic PSA of a car accident via the result of texting while driving, chances are a eureka light came on in America's Madison Avenue. Depicting harsh reality may work if done through a certain way... -
Back to School: Riding a School Bus and How to Deal with Bus PoliticsRiding a school bus for the first time might be an intimidating experience for a student, but it doesn't have to be. These tips will show you how to handle the politics of riding on a school bus through a student's entire teenage years... -
Underwater 3D Cinematography: An Evolving Art by Creators the Mantello BrosOut of all the incredible documentaries of nature in the IMAX format, it wasn't until the 2000's when underwater documentaries in IMAX 3D became more prominent as the result of two oceanographer brothers from France. Meet the Mantello Brothers... -
Affordable DVR's: Review of Toshiba's Recent VHS/DVD Combo RecordersWith so many options in a DVR, it's the VHS/DVD recorder combos that have the most problems and gripes. Toshiba, however, managed to create a decent combo recorder at a reasonable price. Any problems can be averted by knowing a few simple things...
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New Hosts for At the Movies: Possible New Golden Age of Film Criticism on TVNow that At the Movies did the right thing and brought A.O. Scott and Michael Phillips to the balcony, a chance to return to the Siskel & Ebert days may be upon us. The only unknowns will be two things: chemistry and a good fight. -
Renaming Iconic Buildings in America: The New Corporate TakeoverHave you noticed how many iconic buildings with well-known namesakes are being replaced with a corporate title? It's also encroaching in local communities where prior building names associated with goodwill are getting their own corporate takeover. -
Cocaine Addiction in Show Business Today: Are Secret Addictions Still There?Cocaine has been an obvious problem in Hollywood for decades, though insiders ban celebs abusing it recently. But has there been a more clandestine addiction going on concurrently due to the increasing pressure in realizing the American Dream? -
Cellular Blinds: How to Customize Them for Your Windows in Every RoomOne of the biggest hassles to placing blinds on windows of your home is in controlling light without compromising privacy. Cellular blinds provide the best alternatives with energy efficiency and should do away with all other blinds forever...
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Julie & Julia May Bring Interest Back to Julia Child's OSS Work in WWIIWhile "Julie & Julia" shows the side of Julia Child we know her for in the French culinary arts, her secret work for the OSS in WWII should also be dramatized. Her time there had as much wit and efficiency as her Paris years... -
Placing a Piano in Your Home: Tips for the Best Location, Sound and CareAs challenging as it may be to buy a grand piano in a bad economy, finding the perfect location to place it in your home will be an equal challenge. Here's tips on where to permanently place it to safely sound good privately and during parties... -
New CGI for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Aging the Actors into AdultsConvincingly aging an actor in a movie has never been completely convincing, though much better recently with advanced prosthetic makeup. But 2010-11's "Harry Potter & the Death Hallows" has an advanced CGI aging effect that could change everything...
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The Dueling BoycottWho says boycotts can't be effective? Mr. Tennyson managed to rally thousands of people over the internet to attempt to change television for the better. That is, until Miss Pinsky wrote him a letter, leading to a duel not seen before... -
Cash for Clunkers and How it Could Have Applied to the Used Car MarketAs useful as Cash for Clunkers was for those who were able to make additional payments on a new vehicle, others would have preferred the troubled government program allowing a cheaper route of buying or trading for a newer used vehicle... -
Multimedia Concerts: New Art Philosophy of Essence Over Pop Culture RealityAmerica has a new art movement of pop culture impressionism via multimedia concert tours. Shows such as The Beatles' "Love" and "Star Wars: In Concert" bring audience preferences of assimilating an essence of iconic media over the real thing... -
U.S. Beach Tsunami Evacuation Methods: How to Stay SafeReports are that the U.S. west coast is even more of a sitting duck for a massive tsunami someday due to dangerous earthquake faults in Alaska. This doesn't mean cooperative evacuation still can't be done, with a little help from Coast Guard friends...Also published on: -
Walter Cronkite's Impartial Journalism and How it Might Survive in Web WritingAfter the world lost Walter Cronkite, reporters everywhere seemed adamant to uphold his journalistic philosophy, despite that being impossible now. For citizen journalists, though, their path with no constraint is wide open to bring it back... -
Prevention Education in Obama's Health Plan: Would it Really Help Curb Illness?When you look back at attempts to repair America's complicated health care system, prevention education always get shoved in the corner. Obama's plan gives it a cursory mention, but making it front and center would have been the ultimate fix... -
Whitney Houston's New Album: Will She Bring the Dormant Power Ballad Back?There probably won't be much argument that Whitney Houston made the power ballad the most accessible of any artist thriving on the same genre. Now with her new comeback album bringing power ballads back, is America in the mood for them again? -
Harry Potter's Lord Voldemort and the Future Trajectory of the Literary VillainThere isn't a doubt that J.K. Rowling set out to create the most vile villain in young adult writing history with Voldemort. Will that lead to a dead-end for future antagonists in books for children, or just more interesting ambiguity?
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Will "Harry Potter & the Half-Blood Prince" Get a Best Picture Oscar Nomination?While Hollywood will try, it seems unlikely any other film in 2009 will come close to the majestic qualities of "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince." Oscar may shower it with awards, though may also want to wait for the Deathly Hallows...
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Renting a Car for Summer Travel: Can You Pay Using a Prepaid Debit Card?When renting a car, most experienced travelers will say that it's mandatory to have a credit card. But with so many people abandoning credit, car rentals are forced to accept alternative payment methods. Here's what you need to know in advance.
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The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Will Capture Images of Apollo 11 Landing SiteWhen NASA sent up the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter this year, we weren't initially told that locating Apollo's moon landing sites would be a top priority to finally shut down the moon landing hoax theories. But will it make any difference? -
Sarah Palin's Resignation for Possible Media Work May Influence Other PoliticiansFormer politicians starting talk shows hasn't been a crowded field yet other than a select few. Now with Sarah Palin likely heading that direction for more financial and personal stability, all other prominent politicians may follow suit... -
The Fall of Skylab 30 Years Later: A NASA Litter Bill in Australia Has Been PaidAn update on an article I did in 2008 about a litter fee imposed on NASA by Esperance, Australia after Skylab fell there on July 12, 1979. Now it's been paid thanks to a CA radio personality as we ponder whether satellites will fall again... -
Posthumous Jackson CD Releases and How They May Affect the Music IndustryAs fascinating as Michael Jackson's life was, it's the music that ultimately has the strongest pull of attraction. When posthumous releases happen, expect the entire music industry to recalculate their marketing plans for other artists...
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Deaths in Threes May Have Inflated with Myriad Celeb Deaths in Summer of '09When I wrote a piece about Deaths in Threes in March of '08, I figured it would matter more later. And, in the summer of '09, it surely did, even though we're now dealing with an inflated death count. Here's a follow-up with possible explanations... -
The James Leininger Reincarnation Case: Real or a Process of Memory Transfer?Reincarnation is a subject that never goes away, especially when so many cases of children recalling the memories of a long-ago departed person keep happening. But can we really call it reincarnation or merely memory transfer with a divine purpose? -
Fireworks Stands and the Economy: Which Ones to Support and Which to AvoidThe American pastime of buying fireworks for the 4th of July used to be a carefree process of where you bought them. Now, with economic troubles plaguing America, seeking out fireworks dealers who give to charity could make consumerism more patriotic... -
Yammer as the New Twitter for Businesses to Keep Employees ConnectedThere isn't any denying that proper communication in corporations isn't always at the level it should be. With a microblogging tool called Yammer, productivity may improve through the use of unique communication and psychology... -
Ed McMahon's Ability to Sell Anything: His Techniques that Ads Seldom UseThere isn't any denying that Ed McMahon was one of the greatest TV pitchmen ever. Yet his barker background belied his conversational style used in ads that's now going away in favor of the aggressive Billy Mays barker style...
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Michael Jackson's Death and How it May Destroy the Concept of SuperstardomThe death of Michael Jackson has so many angles, we'll be seeing ruminations about it for years to come. But the overriding lesson learned is how dangerous superstardom has become and how Jackson's death may change the process or those who seek fame... -
The Art and Drawbacks to the Follow on Twitter: Why You Don't Need a MillionThe symbiotic process of following someone on Twitter has become too much of an obsession for many. When they find out that most of their followers are spammers, the idea of where they're really gaining followers gets lost in all the tweeting...
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Sham Trials in North Korea and Accusations of the Same Around the WorldPresumptive guilt in trial is a natural trait by every human being. In the world of international tribunals with high court judges, it's a big problem, yet the truths behind it still get overlooked. But North Korea is now the new example... -
Possible Laws Limiting the Use of Taser Guns to People Below a Certain AgeWhile a busier world didn't show massive outrage over a 70-something woman being tased with a taser gun in Texas, the chances are good that taser laws will be altered in some states--giving treatment of retirees a lot more leniency... -
What Happened to the American Film Institute "100 Movies" CBS TV Specials?Remember the annual "100 Years, 100 Movies" CBS specials from the American Film Institute? After 11 years, it appears they're no more, unless there's one later that rightfully celebrates a countdown of films from 1939 now celebrating 70 years...
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Sun Hats for Summer: Picking One that Works with Your Head & PersonalityIf there's any true fashion division of males and females, it may be in sun hats. Women almost always look good in one. For males, it takes more shopping time and a little obsession over how wide the brim has to be to protect from UV rays... -
Being a Prisoner in North Korea and the Psychological Impact If One SurvivesNorth Korea could be imposing psychological torture on American prisoners they take in--with Laura Ling & Euna Lee being unfortunate recipients of it. In the 90's, one man held prisoner there for three months may have given proof... -
Traveling the Willamette Valley in OR: Where to Go When Portland Isn't IncludedThe cities and towns within Oregon's Willamette Valley may be smaller compared to Portland, but the commitment to the arts is arguably greater. And nearly superseding that is the overwhelming color of green that you'll see for miles along I-5... -
GPS Satellite Failures and Finding Our Way Instinctually Without Digital MapsAll the fear of our GPS satellites going down in the coming decade may be a blessing in disguise. If wishfully temporary, having a chance to navigate our planet without GPS would bring back dormant human instincts lost centuries ago... -
The New Reality Game Show Philosophy of Losing to Gain More StardomSusan Boyle's seeming relief in losing "Britain's Got Talent" could be the beginning in Britain of one trend already happening in America: The use of these shows as a strong dose of publicity with no care whether you win or not...
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Will Violence Continue Over Abortion, or Will There Be a Definitive Answer?With the death of abortion doctor George Tiller comes an opportunity to finally brings heads to a table and discuss why we're so divided on abortion. After a look at historical record, a fresh discussion could create an epiphany... -
Making Your Wedding Vows Meaningful and Relevant to the TimesWedding vows have become so mechanical or forced through canonical ceremonies that all sense of relevancy to a modern marriage gets overlooked. Here's a lesson in how to make vows that are more meaningful and consistent with reality... -
Prepaid Debit Cards: The New Reverse Credit as Credit Cards Crumble?With America's credit card industry getting so many people in trouble, it's a wonder every citizen doesn't switch to using a prepaid debit card. These cards give a psychological boost in using a card on the net, yet still keep one within their means... -
The 2009 Portland Rose Festival Parade Celebrates the Theme of Oregon's 150thHow do you depict Oregon's 150 years of history on floats for the stunning Portland Rose Festival Parade? It turns out, using all natural materials (as they always do) and perhaps a few actors... -
The Return of "V" for the 2009-10 Season and a Possible Literal InterpretationWhen the first miniseries of "V" aired in 1983, most viewers took the aliens coming to Earth plot as an allegory for the Third Reich. But with a new "V" series on the horizon, it could be taken literally this time from an evolution of deeper thought...
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Does Ida, the Newfound Lemur-Like Fossil, Finally Link Evolution with Creation?There seems to be an adamant push to make the new lemur-like fossil found in Germany a central point in evolutionary theory. But if the creationists keep their cool and bring the evolutionists to their table, a bigger answer could be had... -
The Impact of Farrah's Story: More Fear Than Hope for Cancer Patients?Even though Farrah Fawcett's message in her "Farrah's Story" was emotional, heartfelt and meaningful, the sideline message might have conveyed fatalism and unnecessary fear about cancer. In the world of oncology, it might require another view...
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Gregoriancant's 2nd Year at Associated Content and Art of Substantive WritingAfter two years writing for Associated Content, I've been pinned as the man who always writes substantive articles. While I admit that's true, the potentials of it being a liability are strong, unless a careful balance is attempted...
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The Evolution of the 10 P.M. Hour in Prime-Time TV: The Return of ComedyThe 10 p.m. hour on network TV has been full of so many drama shows for years that it's been long forgotten comedy once existed at that hour. "The Jay Leno Show" could draw some inspiration from these variety shows once aired in that slot... -
Scorsese's New Sinatra Movie and the Director's Artistic Ambitions in BiopicsIt's more than safe to say that Martin Scorsese has taken the biographical film to amazing heights in the last 30 years. Now with his upcoming "Sinatra", he may just take it further and consolidate studies of more American figures he's long delayed... -
Jay Leno's Legacy on "The Tonight Show" and the Celebration of StupidityHow many times have you watched Jay Leno's Jaywalking segments and either turned the channel in disgust or just painfully wince at the brazen stupidity?
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The High Desert Museum in Bend, Oregon Makes Nature and History InteractiveShould you be heading to Bend, Oregon to just do hiking or skiing, consider stopping by the High Desert Museum for one afternoon. -
The One-Day Oregon Coast Trip: Where to Go for Fun and Variety of ActivityWhile it's recommended to stay at the Oregon Coast for days if not weeks, you can have a fulfilling time there in just one day. -
Anatomy of the Lie: Drew Peterson as the New Example of the Believable LiarAs the human race continues to evolve at incredible rates, so has the act of lying. Particularly in murderers such as Drew Peterson and O.J. Simpson, that more believable lying is the result of convincing themselves they didn't commit murder... -
Michael Savage's Ban in U.K.: The Unraveling of Obama's International Unity?While the banning of extremists in the U.K. may appear to be just a conservative movement there, perhaps it's the building of a different philosophy. The Brits could be tiring of a troubled world and desiring utopia... -
ABC's 2009-10 Modern Family and Similarity to a 1979 Albert Brooks ComedyABC's 2009-2010 fall schedule may have a huge hit with "Modern Family" that pokes holes in the reality show concept. But this show also borrows its basic format from an Albert Brooks comedy celebrating its 30th anniversary this year...
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15th Anniversary of Forrest Gump: The Philosophic Divide on a Movie Classic15 years after "Forrest Gump" was released, its fans and detractors still debate the philosophy behind the film. Perhaps a sequel giving Forrest's view of post-9/11 times would finally bring a collective understanding of that philosophy...
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The Techniques of the Headbutt as an Element of Surprise in Self-DefenseUsing a headbutt in self-defense is on par with the most effective martial arts moves without having to use your arms or legs. However, it can frequently backfire without quick mental and physical preparation.
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Goethe's "The Sorcerer's Apprentice": Metaphor for Modern Business & PoliticsSince most references to "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" are of Mickey Mouse controlling the universe, it's placed Goethe's poem of the tale in the background. But his version is a little outdated in the way a boss works with his apprentice... -
Dom DeLuise's Fatso Had a Deep Insight into Our Modern Obesity ProblemIt seems that the late Dom DeLuise's starring vehicle "Fatso" is his most beloved movie as a forward-thinking exploration of obesity. But while it made excellent comedic points in how to avoid overeating, it missed one important way to stop it...
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The Slow Erosion of Cable Customers to Online Programming May Change CableAfter three decades of cable companies feeling secure, they aren't any longer as statistics show a definite gravitation toward watching TV shows online. With that comes possible business acquisitions and the advent of better creativity in programming... -
Food Banks Suddenly See a Spike in Donations After Coming Close to ClosingWhile it's outstanding news that food banks are suddenly getting a spike in donations compared to the drought of last year, who made it that way would be an interesting sociological study. The answer of who shouldn't be surprising... -
Disneynature's Earth Brings Interest Back to Disney's True-Life AdventuresDisney's Disneynature production arm might be accused of being politically motivated to the liberal side. But there isn't any evidence of that despite allowing us to look decades back to the truly balanced True-Life Adventures... -
The Art and Steps of Writing a Meaningful Letter to Mom on Mother's DayMost people find it shocking that the creator of Mother's Day later protested against her holiday because of its overt commercialization. Anna Jarvis wanted us to write a personal note to our mothers that comes from the heart. Here's how to do it... -
Is J.J. Abrams' Star Trek the Version Roddenberry Would Have Done on TV?It shouldn't be any surprise that J.J. Abrams' take on "Star Trek" would have more sex, violence and language. Perhaps that edge, though, would have been done by Gene Roddenberry in the 1960s had the times been different...
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Senators Who Changed Political Parties: Proof D.C. Has Been Politically ConflictedWith the defection of Sen. Arlen Specter from Republican to Democrat, we tend to forget how many times this has happened in D.C. It hasn't been often, but it's a tip that much political conflict has been there for two centuries... -
More Confusion for the 2009 Digital Turnover: Re-tuning Your Digital BoxThe FCC almost had a peaceful June 12 transition from analog to digital in their hands until a new requirement was asked of those with a digital box: Rescan your box to get channels added in recent months. Confusion ensues...
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Microsoft's Vine Networking Software May Become Popular During a Natural DisasterIt was inevitable that Microsoft would attempt to get into the social networking fray. Through their new Vine software, we have a communication tool that may have its best marketing method implemented during a natural disaster or terrorism incident...
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The '09 Swine Flu Threat Could Force People to Stop Spreading GermsShould you be one of the unlucky ones who become a magnet of people coughing or sneezing on you in public places, then the 2009 Swine Flu threat may just bring more awareness and stop it...at least for a while...
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Stevia as a Sweet Herb America Should Be Using as a Sugar SubstituteSeeing artificial sweeteners in restaurants and refined sugar in every dessert imaginable has been a part of the American way for decades. With the sweet herb called Stevia, though, we have a chance to consume a sweetener that doesn't cause illness... -
Unique "Schoolhouse Rock" Voice Blossom Dearie Died in FebruaryMost people who grew up with "Schoolhouse Rock" know Blossom Dearie as the girlie voice who sang "Figure Eight." But for those of us who dug deeper, there was an epiphany of realizing she was one of the greatest jazz singers/pianists of all time.
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Summertime Haircuts to Keep Your Head Cool During HeatwavesBuzz cuts and crewcuts have been around for close to 60 years now, though always associated with something else other than casual. In recent decades, they've become a convenient way to keep cool during the summer and lift a weight from one's head...
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The Slip N' Slide: Where to Find the Revivals of This Classic Summer FavoriteThe Slip N' Slide has gone from a basic version to dozens of variants that are both fun and just plain annoying if unworkable. Here's a look at the Slip N' Slide from its inception up to its revival editions that Wham-O made much more daring...
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Sun Chips Look to Be the #1 Healthiest Snack for People and the EnvironmentSometimes the healthiest snack foods can be overlooked via more unhealthy foods that have a stronger gravitational pull toward consumers. -
NASA's Constellation Moon Mission Would Inspire Us, Despite Budget CutsIt's hard to imagine that we could be returning to the moon 50 years after we were there last. While it should have happened earlier, it might not happen at all by 2020 if budget cuts get in the way--unless images of the moon inspire Congress again... -
Citizen Journalism Picks Up in the Mainstream with Fox News Joining the FrayCitizen Journalism is on the rise with Fox News now joining CNN in allowing ordinary people to send in news stories. It all follows what Associated Content has been doing all along--with the potential risks worth a chance at obtaining truth...
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Pixar's Feature Up and Other Family Movies Depicting Flight Across the GlobeWith the new Pixar movie "Up", we have a special mixture of what makes the adventure in the air genre a magical plot device. In some movies, there was a purpose to the flight--and for others, just for the sake of exploring the unknown... -
If the EPA Limits Emissions, it Could Affect Those Who Drive Older CarsUnder the rule of Obama, the EPA is now at its most powerful it's ever been. With that will soon come state laws that requires the cutting of all emissions. That includes cars where many could inevitably suffer financially... -
Should Protesters Follow the Boston Tea Party Way of Going Under Disguise?With the Tax Tea Parties history, the future may involve new ways to protest since the first one won't make much difference. With that, will future protesters turn more violent and disguise themselves as those did during the Boston Tea Party? -
America May Copy Britain's Recent Trend of Accepting Plain-Looking SingersAmericans have always stolen from the British. But when it comes to accepting overweight, plain-looking singers in the mold of Susan Boyle, American may have to depend on a Brit to make them hear the voice rather than see the body...
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The 4th Annual Salem Film Festival in Oregon Continues to Draw Big NamesThe Salem Film Festival in Oregon has been going only four years, but it's already attracting significant names for screenings and lectures. With the appealing ambiance of Salem, Oregon, here's a short guide to what you can experience... -
Should Michael Crichton's Upcoming Posthumous Novels Be Published?It appears that Michael Crichton is about to get the same treatment given to Hemingway, Tolstoy and many other writers: Having novels published posthumously. But it seems that publishing companies are finally sensing how controversial it is... -
Twitter's Simplicity Could Draw Those with Technophobia to the InternetIf Leonardo DaVinci said that simplicity was the ultimate sophistication, then the internet should take heed. With Twitter wisely using that philosophy, extreme simplicity may be all over the net within the next few years... -
Solar Power from Space May Be an Overdue Answer to U.S. Energy CrisisIt might seem odd to have space-based solar power suddenly come to possible fruition when it's been studied and workable for the last 40 years. But once PG&E makes it a reality by 2016, expect big business to be the same on your energy rates...
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Portuguese Water Dog Personality: Why Bo Should Be with Pres. Obama OftenWith the extreme intelligence of the Portuguese Water Dog, the Obamas picked a perfect dog for Sasha and Malia. Only, it might be better if our President himself bonded with Bo based on the Water Dog's affinity for being active with a lone master... -
Phil Spector's Wall of Sound: Will This Studio Technique Continue in Music?Phil Spector's Wall of Sound is either the most brilliant studio technique ever or the worst. Whether it was or wasn't, the era we live will ultimately decide. With more stripped-down production values being popular, it may go away like Spector has...
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U.N. Security Council Resolutions Passed in '08 Didn't Slow Down Somalia PiratesBefore the Somali pirates story became a headliner, the U.N. passed four resolutions to amend the problem in 2008. With failure of those and a recent Navy mission, President Obama has to rely on the CIA now where things don't move fast... -
Will Oregon Lead the Way in Placing Electric Cars on Every U.S. Highway?Oregon almost always leads the way in controversial laws--so it isn't a surprise that the state may also lead the way in expanding electric car use on our roads. The state's Governor is adamant about it, even if the odds are still great... -
The Possibilities of Overworking the Brain Causing Illness Later in LifeWith a new Oxford University study saying that overworking the brain early in life could lead to dementia or Alzheimer's, we'll have to consider what else a stressed brain could cause. It could be a burden on the younger generation... -
Human Achievement Hour: Can it Exist Peacefully with Earth Hour?Perhaps you heard of a new holiday that thumbed its nose at Earth Hour in March of this year. Human Achievement Hour may sound vitriolic, but it actually has possibilities--especially if joined with Earth Hour to make a stronger point... -
25 Years After This is Spinal Tap: Has the Mockumentary Become Too Ironic?Despite "This is Spinal Tap" being 25 this year, the mockumentary genre is really older than that. In its evolution, Christopher Guest may have taken the genre to where tragedy and comedy meet--much to the possible dismay of viewers just catching on...
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Green Living in Thoreau's Walden and the Balance of Nature & IndustryWhile the Transcendentalist Movement taught a simpler way of life, Thoreau's "Walden" showed examples of conflict in balancing nature with the growing Industrial Revolution of the time. That balance is one of the world's biggest challenges today... -
Transgender Mayor of Silverton Oregon, Stu Rasmussen, May Get a Reality ShowSilverton, Oregon has been respected for its blend of sophistication with small town life and affable people. Now with a possible reality show possibly happening about their transgender mayor, Stu Rasmussen, citizens are worried about possible changes... -
Easy Company's Don Malarkey: 65 Years After D-Day and Changing HistoryWhen the book and miniseries "Band of Brothers were released, there wasn't time to focus on any one individual of Easy Company. But one of those men, Don Malarkey, has one of the most fascinating back stories and mental development in withstanding war... -
"Idol" Dropping the Songwriting Contest: Why It's Good for Aspiring SongwritersConsider it a positive that American Idol won't be doing their songwriting contest this year. After a false designation of being for amateurs, it clearly was meant for professionals. And even they may not do a good job writing a song this time around... -
Sesame Street's 40th Anniversary DVD to Release in November with Viewer InputWith a 40th anniversary DVD coming in November celebrating "Sesame Street's" four decades on the air, we have a chance to put its glory years in better perspective for all generations. And it's all with a little help from Amazon.com. -
Chicago's 2016 Olympic Bid: Has the City Become the Most Powerful in the World?When we realize the powerful people that now hail from Chicago, it might place the Windy City at the top of the list for the 2016 Olympics. But being too powerful could ultimately hurt their chances and make it difficult for the IOC... -
Why Were Photos of Martin Luther King's Assassination Aftermath Withheld?With Life.com releasing never-before-seen photos of the Martin Luther King assassination aftermath, the mystery arises why Life Magazine withheld them. When it came to shocking photographs, Life never hesitated to publish for history's sake... -
Will ER Return with Reunion Movies? Series TV Movies as Audience PleasersWith the series finale of "ER" comes news that the public wouldn't mind seeing a reunion movie. TV history has plenty of examples where those movies went on for years--hence bringing questions why they don't get counted as official episodes...
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Breaking Protocol While Meeting the Queen of England: Eliminating Formality?When we hear about how warm Queen Elizabeth II is behind-the-scenes, one has to wonder whether she should give an official end to protocol during greetings. A pat on the back more than every few years would be desired by anybody... -
The 15th Anniversary of Turner Classic Movies and Looking Ahead to Its FutureWhen TCM debuted in April of 1994, there was a profound adamant attitude upon its creators to bring classic movies back to TV. After American Movie Classics stopped showing classic movies, TCM stood alone and still does...
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Gershwin's "Cuban Overture" as Little-Known Work, but More Relevant TodayWith America making attempts to reach out to Cuba and reignite relations, listening to a little-known 1932 work by George Gershwin might help in reminding our musical connections. The "Cuban Overture" consolidated the sounds of Cuba with America... -
The New 2009 $250 Stimulus Check: Inciting Spending by the RetiredThere may never again be a time when the American populace gets another stimulus check. And its usefulness this time for those on Social Security may surprise us in what those people use the money for, financial struggle or not... -
Farrelly Brothers Stooges Movie Won't Be the First Biopic Done About the TrioIt's a wonder that hasn't been more biopics done about The Three Stooges considering they had more drama and tragedy in real life than any other comedy team. One made for ABC in 2000 played up those emotions and deserves a DVD release...
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If You Barter to Save Money, the IRS Sees it as Taxable IncomeBartering has become a new reality in America for many individuals and businesses in order to stay afloat economically. But when the IRS reminds them that it's taxable income, the trust of being a taxpayer might go toward new Tea Parties... -
Diana Krall's New Album "Quiet Nights" Keeps the Bossa Nova Genre ThrivingWith all the Bossa singers/interpreters around the world, it would seem that Diana Krall would struggle to stand alone in that field. Yet she proves she's the foremost Bossa interpreter in the U.S. with her new album "Quiet Nights"... -
New Baby Boom in the U.S. And Why the Populace Want Kids in Troubled TimesAs surprising as it is that America is currently matching the baby boom of the 1950's, there may be a complex philosophy behind it all. In theory, we shouldn't be wanting kids--yet they're becoming a respite from all the world's madness... -
After a Google Earth User Thought He Found Atlantis, Will Google Mars Reveal Something NASA Can't Deny?With Google's free, awe-inspiring and controversial mapping programs, they're now allowing us to explore Mars' surface with Google Mars. Is it inevitable, though, that something will be found by Mr. or Miss Geek that changes our worldview? -
Oregon Loses Twilight Sequel New Moon to New Hollywood, Vancouver B.CWith Oregon losing the next "Twilight" sequel filming to Vancouver, B.C., the film's fans may just have to speak up when they notice a change of scenery. -
40 Years of Presidents Appearing on Comedy TV Shows: Why it Never Hurt ThemPrior to the late 1960's, no Presidential candidate or President appeared on a TV show to do comedy. Richard Nixon broke the mold in 1968, though didn't stop future Presidents from doing some light comedy on TV later... -
Natasha Richardson's Lucid Interval Should Have Tipped Off Her Epidural HematomaWith the tragic death of Natasha Richardson from head trauma comes a new medical term we should all remember by heart: a lucid interval. Consider this one of many unusual symptoms from our brain when it deals with trauma or other ailments...
