It’s not often that a cartoon series transcends the time it originally aired to become a “cultural” icon.
Rare, but that’s the case with “The Flinstones”, which made its debut on this date 50 YEARS ago! Yes, five decades of Fred and Barney and Wilma, Betty and the gang!
On September 30, 1960, the TV executives at ABC made a calculated bet. In essence, they decided that an animated show would work in PRIME TIME—a first. The formula was to rip off the most popular show on television at the time—“The Honeymooners”—and toss in enough stone-age puns to keep adults and kids laughing.
Needless to say, it worked.
Hanna-Barbera Productions realized the setting of Bedrock and the caveman era lent itself to the abundance of rock puns that were riddled throughout each episode. Hollywood became “Hollyrock” and celebrities of the day were parodied as well—Cary Grant became “Cary Granite” and so forth—with the stars themselves often providing the voice of their cartoon counterpart!
Check out this CIGARETTE commercial starring The Flintstones! Times were certainly different back then:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mZvHiiWFbBU
Wow.
The voice of Fred Flintstone was provided by actor Alan Reed, who physically resembled Fred—and for that matter Jackie Gleason. In a 1966 Playboy interview, Gleason said that Reed had once done voiceovers for him in some of his early movies. He went on to state that he (Gleason) considered suing Hanna-Barbera for copying “The Honeymooners”, but was persuaded not to. Gleason’s lawyers said that he could probably get “The Flintstones” pulled off the air, but wondered if he “wanted to be the guy who took away a show that so many children—and adults loved?”
He decided not to go to court.
The voice of Barney Rubble was provided by legendary voice actor Mel Blanc during 5 early episodes. He was replaced by Daws Butler for a time while Blanc was recovering from a near-fatal car accident. Mel Blanc returned sooner than expected, recording the parts from his bed—and the pitch of his voice lowered considerably after the accident---now resembling the Ed Norton character from…you guessed it-- “The Honeymooners”!
“The Flintstones” was on the air until 1966, but since has become rebroadcast in reruns, on video and DVD and was remade into a full length motion picture.
Visit Google’s home page today and you’ll see their tribute to a show that is truly timeless. Just about everyone can sing the theme song—and virtually everyone has loved that “modern stone-age family”----for a half a century.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
The Singing Cowboy Is Born
A true star was born on this day in 1907—Gene Autry.
There are few individuals with so successful a career—in so many ways. From the 1930’s to the 50’s, the so-called “Singing Cowboy” was the #1 recording artist in the “country and western” genre. He was also a huge radio personality, a movie star and businessman.
Wow, this cowboy was busy!
Born in Tioga, Texas, Byron Orvon Gene Autry sang in church as a boy and taught himself to play the mail-order guitar he received from his parents on his 12th birthday. When his family moved to Oklahoma in the 1920’s, a chance encounter with another legend changed the young Autry’s life forever.
While Autry strummed his guitar and sang during a quiet swing shift at the telegraph office in Chelsea where he worked, none other than Will Rogers happened to stop in. The year was 1927—and Oklahoma’s favorite son Rogers was impressed enough to encourage Gene Autry to go to New York and pursue a singing career.
A year later, he did just that. Autry’s breakthrough came two years later, when his song “That Silver-Haired Daddy Of Mine” became a smash hit, selling a half million copies.
In 1934, Autrey made his first appearance in a movie called “Old Santa Fe”. From there, he was cast in a B-movie serial called “The Phantom Empire”, which was hugely successful.
Here’s a short video tribute to Gene Autry:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hpqcpiLmoI
Aside from a stretch away from show business during World War II (when Autry served in the armed forces), the singing cowboy continued an amazing career well into the 50’s. Oddly enough, the hits he is most known for are not country songs.
They are Christmas tunes, like “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town”-which he wrote himself—and “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer”---which was recorded in 1949 and became the biggest hit of his career.
Later in life, he owned radio stations, a record label—and even a Major League baseball team (The Los Angeles Angels).
The great Gene Autry passed away in 1998 at the age of 81. His music and movies will live forever.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
There are few individuals with so successful a career—in so many ways. From the 1930’s to the 50’s, the so-called “Singing Cowboy” was the #1 recording artist in the “country and western” genre. He was also a huge radio personality, a movie star and businessman.
Wow, this cowboy was busy!
Born in Tioga, Texas, Byron Orvon Gene Autry sang in church as a boy and taught himself to play the mail-order guitar he received from his parents on his 12th birthday. When his family moved to Oklahoma in the 1920’s, a chance encounter with another legend changed the young Autry’s life forever.
While Autry strummed his guitar and sang during a quiet swing shift at the telegraph office in Chelsea where he worked, none other than Will Rogers happened to stop in. The year was 1927—and Oklahoma’s favorite son Rogers was impressed enough to encourage Gene Autry to go to New York and pursue a singing career.
A year later, he did just that. Autry’s breakthrough came two years later, when his song “That Silver-Haired Daddy Of Mine” became a smash hit, selling a half million copies.
In 1934, Autrey made his first appearance in a movie called “Old Santa Fe”. From there, he was cast in a B-movie serial called “The Phantom Empire”, which was hugely successful.
Here’s a short video tribute to Gene Autry:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hpqcpiLmoI
Aside from a stretch away from show business during World War II (when Autry served in the armed forces), the singing cowboy continued an amazing career well into the 50’s. Oddly enough, the hits he is most known for are not country songs.
They are Christmas tunes, like “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town”-which he wrote himself—and “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer”---which was recorded in 1949 and became the biggest hit of his career.
Later in life, he owned radio stations, a record label—and even a Major League baseball team (The Los Angeles Angels).
The great Gene Autry passed away in 1998 at the age of 81. His music and movies will live forever.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Fixing Education--Start With Tenure
All this week, NBC and their affiliate networks (including MSNBC) are focusing on education: where we are, the magnitude of our public system’s shortcomings—and what we can do. I applaud them for taking the initiative. Just the discussion alone will elevate education to the priority level it deserves.
One aspect of the education system that has come under fire is the whole notion of tenure. In essence, a teacher with a certain number of years invested in a particular school or school system becomes tenured. The bottom line is that this practice safeguards the job of the teacher---for the life of their career in most cases.
Tenure is most certainly part of the problem with our schools.
Coming from the so-called “private sector”, in my world there is no such thing as “tenure”. The only job security you have is your own performance. Every day, those in the business world must continually have their “game face” on, ready to compete for customers, for dollars, for sustained business.
Not so in academia—especially at the college level, where I hear firsthand reports of rampant laziness, lesson plans that haven’t been changed in years and requests granted for “sabbaticals”.
Really?
A sabbatical? Of course, to perform RESEARCH. To publish that research in a trade journal. To FIND YOURSELF.
Do this is the business world and the only place you’ll “find yourself” is in the unemployment line.
Tenure is a system with absolutely ZERO benefits for the customer of education-namely the students. It breeds laziness, allows teachers to “coast” and costs our entire education system dearly. Great for teachers and teachers unions, but not so great for our kids.
Don’t get me wrong—I’m not against teachers. In fact, I believe that teachers represent the most important profession there is. I also believe that most teachers are committed and desire the very best for our kids. However, I believe in things that most teachers would likely rebel against vehemently.
I have no qualifications whatsoever to evaluate our education system, other than the observations of a father with three kids, two of whom are in college and one who is in the fifth grade. A combined 36 years or so of seeing how things work.
So, how would I fix education?
Here’s my list, starting with the subject of this blog:
1) ELIMINATE TENURE- If you are good, you should be rewarded with ever increasing pay and benefits. If you are marginal or lazy or not capable of keeping up with advancements in educational practices, you are GONE. Goodbye and good luck. The future of our kids cannot depend on you.
2) MAKE TEACHING A YEAR ROUND JOB- Teachers have long complained about low pay (which may be true), but those of us with 12 month a year jobs counter that the pay teachers receive (low or not) is for a 9 or 10 month year (also true) I propose that teaching becomes a YEAR ROUND profession, regardless of the length of the school year. What do teachers do when the kids are on vacation? How about professional development sessions, strategic and lesson-planning workshops and other activities that will enhance their credentials?
3) EXPAND THE SCHOOL YEAR- Related to #2 above, but most advanced countries have school years that are longer and in some places, year round. I say that not only should we expand the school year to be September through June. Summer would be an 8 week period—July and August and standardized nationally.
4) MAKE SCHOOL DAYS COUNT- There are way too many school days where actual learning simply does not happen. Take your child’s already sparse school year and then start subtracting. Take away all the vacation weeks, all the “teacher workshop” days, the “half days”, the “early release” days, the school assemblies and all the other extraneous activities that are not directly related to learning. You will be SHOCKED.
5) INCREASE TEACHERS, DECREASE ADMINISTRATORS- Too many chiefs and not enough Indians, as it were. Too many dollars in our school system are diverted to overpaid superintendents, administrators and bureaucratic positions that are not directly related to teaching children. In Maine, enrollments have actually DECREASED, but the hiring of administrative staff has INCREASED. How does this make sense?
6) RAISE STANDARDS-Kids will raise their game to our expectations—lowering those standards in order to “look good” in comparison to other schools is a disservice to the students. The world they are living in and the working world in which they will enter is increasingly competitive and complex. The skills needed to navigate and excel in this world dictate that we demand more, not less of our kids.
The best way to evaluate what can be accomplished is to look at a school where things ARE being accomplished.
Case in point: Urban Prep Academy in Chicago, which just graduated 100% of its students—young black men, 97% of whom were living under the poverty level. Each of the graduates were accepted into a 4 year college.
Amazing.
Check out this incredible report on Urban Prep from ABC:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjjQ6fFFyZI
It happened because of hard work and high expectations, not lazy teachers with guaranteed job security and a low bar to “pass” to graduate. Each morning, in what is called “Community” ,the entire student body recites the following Creed:
The Urban Prep Creed
We believe.
We are the young men of Urban Prep.
We are college bound.
We are exceptional-not because we say it, but because we work hard at it.
We will not falter in the face of any obstacle placed before us.
We are dedicated, committed and focused.
We never succumb to mediocrity, uncertainty or fear.
We never fail because we never give up.
We make no excuses.
We choose to live honestly, nonviolently and honorably.
We respect ourselves and, in doing so, respect all people.
We have a future for which we are accountable.
We have a responsibility to our families, community and world.
We are our brothers' keepers.
We believe in ourselves.
We believe in each other.
We believe in Urban Prep.
WE BELIEVE.
That's pretty good stuff.
We can make our schools a shining example of excellence EVERYWHERE. We just have to WANT TO enough to not protect bad or lazy teachers, administrators, unions or school boards or uninvolved parents from the primary objective of giving all of our children a world-class education.
Do we want to BADLY enough?
If you’d like my blog in your inbox daily, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
One aspect of the education system that has come under fire is the whole notion of tenure. In essence, a teacher with a certain number of years invested in a particular school or school system becomes tenured. The bottom line is that this practice safeguards the job of the teacher---for the life of their career in most cases.
Tenure is most certainly part of the problem with our schools.
Coming from the so-called “private sector”, in my world there is no such thing as “tenure”. The only job security you have is your own performance. Every day, those in the business world must continually have their “game face” on, ready to compete for customers, for dollars, for sustained business.
Not so in academia—especially at the college level, where I hear firsthand reports of rampant laziness, lesson plans that haven’t been changed in years and requests granted for “sabbaticals”.
Really?
A sabbatical? Of course, to perform RESEARCH. To publish that research in a trade journal. To FIND YOURSELF.
Do this is the business world and the only place you’ll “find yourself” is in the unemployment line.
Tenure is a system with absolutely ZERO benefits for the customer of education-namely the students. It breeds laziness, allows teachers to “coast” and costs our entire education system dearly. Great for teachers and teachers unions, but not so great for our kids.
Don’t get me wrong—I’m not against teachers. In fact, I believe that teachers represent the most important profession there is. I also believe that most teachers are committed and desire the very best for our kids. However, I believe in things that most teachers would likely rebel against vehemently.
I have no qualifications whatsoever to evaluate our education system, other than the observations of a father with three kids, two of whom are in college and one who is in the fifth grade. A combined 36 years or so of seeing how things work.
So, how would I fix education?
Here’s my list, starting with the subject of this blog:
1) ELIMINATE TENURE- If you are good, you should be rewarded with ever increasing pay and benefits. If you are marginal or lazy or not capable of keeping up with advancements in educational practices, you are GONE. Goodbye and good luck. The future of our kids cannot depend on you.
2) MAKE TEACHING A YEAR ROUND JOB- Teachers have long complained about low pay (which may be true), but those of us with 12 month a year jobs counter that the pay teachers receive (low or not) is for a 9 or 10 month year (also true) I propose that teaching becomes a YEAR ROUND profession, regardless of the length of the school year. What do teachers do when the kids are on vacation? How about professional development sessions, strategic and lesson-planning workshops and other activities that will enhance their credentials?
3) EXPAND THE SCHOOL YEAR- Related to #2 above, but most advanced countries have school years that are longer and in some places, year round. I say that not only should we expand the school year to be September through June. Summer would be an 8 week period—July and August and standardized nationally.
4) MAKE SCHOOL DAYS COUNT- There are way too many school days where actual learning simply does not happen. Take your child’s already sparse school year and then start subtracting. Take away all the vacation weeks, all the “teacher workshop” days, the “half days”, the “early release” days, the school assemblies and all the other extraneous activities that are not directly related to learning. You will be SHOCKED.
5) INCREASE TEACHERS, DECREASE ADMINISTRATORS- Too many chiefs and not enough Indians, as it were. Too many dollars in our school system are diverted to overpaid superintendents, administrators and bureaucratic positions that are not directly related to teaching children. In Maine, enrollments have actually DECREASED, but the hiring of administrative staff has INCREASED. How does this make sense?
6) RAISE STANDARDS-Kids will raise their game to our expectations—lowering those standards in order to “look good” in comparison to other schools is a disservice to the students. The world they are living in and the working world in which they will enter is increasingly competitive and complex. The skills needed to navigate and excel in this world dictate that we demand more, not less of our kids.
The best way to evaluate what can be accomplished is to look at a school where things ARE being accomplished.
Case in point: Urban Prep Academy in Chicago, which just graduated 100% of its students—young black men, 97% of whom were living under the poverty level. Each of the graduates were accepted into a 4 year college.
Amazing.
Check out this incredible report on Urban Prep from ABC:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjjQ6fFFyZI
It happened because of hard work and high expectations, not lazy teachers with guaranteed job security and a low bar to “pass” to graduate. Each morning, in what is called “Community” ,the entire student body recites the following Creed:
The Urban Prep Creed
We believe.
We are the young men of Urban Prep.
We are college bound.
We are exceptional-not because we say it, but because we work hard at it.
We will not falter in the face of any obstacle placed before us.
We are dedicated, committed and focused.
We never succumb to mediocrity, uncertainty or fear.
We never fail because we never give up.
We make no excuses.
We choose to live honestly, nonviolently and honorably.
We respect ourselves and, in doing so, respect all people.
We have a future for which we are accountable.
We have a responsibility to our families, community and world.
We are our brothers' keepers.
We believe in ourselves.
We believe in each other.
We believe in Urban Prep.
WE BELIEVE.
That's pretty good stuff.
We can make our schools a shining example of excellence EVERYWHERE. We just have to WANT TO enough to not protect bad or lazy teachers, administrators, unions or school boards or uninvolved parents from the primary objective of giving all of our children a world-class education.
Do we want to BADLY enough?
If you’d like my blog in your inbox daily, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Monday, September 27, 2010
Thank You
I’m getting pretty sick of me.
As a result, this blog will wrap and conclude what has been an unbelievable week for my family and myself. Never at a loss to express my opinion on anything and everything, I must say, however, that I am a bit uncomfortable with being the “center of attention” as has been the case the last few days.
On Saturday, I received the Broadcast Achievement Award from the Maine Association of Broadcasters. This honor carries with it induction into the MAB Hall of Fame.
I am deeply moved not only by the honor itself, but even more so in the outpouring of congratulations and support I received from my friends, family and colleagues. Some came from folks I haven’t heard from in years—some of whom I had the pleasure of seeing again at Hollywood Slots in Bangor, the site of this year’s MAB Convention.
My acceptance speech named a lot of names….but after a few minutes of my drivel, I sensed “the hook” coming out, so I did a quick wrap and left too many people out!
My thanks to Jeff Parsons from the Q Morning Show on Q97.9, who “filmed” the event on his phone, uploading to YouTube. If you are having trouble sleeping tonight, click “PLAY” below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOMLrrNTBTs
Without a doubt, the highlight of my evening was the companionship of my family. I expected my wife Peggy to be at my side. My youngest, Kevin, would have been there if not for that pesky “21+” rule at the casino. What I DIDN’T expect was the surprise addition of my oldest son and daughter, both busy college students!
John, who is a senior at RPI in Troy, New York—totally blew me away with his “casual” text asking if I would mind if he came up to Bangor for the day.
Uh…….NO, I wouldn’t mind a bit. I was thrilled!
What I DIDN’T know was that John was also an accomplice in the scheme to surprise both Peggy and I with the appearance of his sister Christina, coming from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska!
I didn’t expect EITHER of them to be there—both are extremely busy on campus with books, varsity athletics and activities. To have them both made an emotional evening even more so.
The fun started on Friday, when Meredith, Jeff & Lori from the Q Morning Show lured me into the studio with the urgent message that “smoke was coming out of the console!”
Upon bursting into the control room (with the mics on live), I was confronted with much of the Citadel staff—crammed into that room yelling “Surprise!!!!!”
Little did I know that many of these same wonderful people were already aware of my daughter’s plan to cross half the country to join me-and John’s journey from New York to be there as well.
My heartfelt thanks to both Herb Ivy (“The Captain”) from WBLM and to Mike Sambrook, Market Manager for Citadel. Herb was a co-conspirator to get my daughter from the Portland bus station and transport her to Bangor. Mike was in constant communication with Christina as well, assuring her that they would indeed make sure that her odyssey from Omaha to Chicago to Boston by plane, to Portland by bus and then to Bangor by car would be accomplished in time. When Christina’s flight was delayed, an improvised Plan B went into effect—with Mike stepping in to do the driving and feigning “car trouble” as the reason he wasn’t there on time.
Little did I know, as I was texting “congratulations” to my daughter for her reported performance in a Women’s Rowing event that didn’t exist. My face registered the shock as she walked into the ballroom.
Wow.
When I turned to Peggy to congratulate her for an Academy-award winning performance, the tears streaming down her face told me that she too had been surprised. Only John had the knowing smile of satisfaction in a devious plan well executed.
There’s no way to list everyone who has been a part of my life and career—you know who you are. I just want to THANK YOU---each of you---for putting up with me and for making my choice of livelihood such an ongoing joy.
I love you all—and thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Post-script- Several people have inquired as to why my photo in the MAB Convention Program is a Photoshop picture of my face pasted on the body of Indiana Jones.
Suzanne Goucher, President and CEO of the MAB asked for a black and white headshot. All I had was a color one, so I forwarded to Kris Currier, our in-house web genius-asking if she could make it B&W. Sending it back, she asked if her work was alright.
To which I replied, “The only way to make it better is if you could make me look like Harrison Ford”.
Done.
Well, sort of.
If you’d like my blog in your inbox, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
As a result, this blog will wrap and conclude what has been an unbelievable week for my family and myself. Never at a loss to express my opinion on anything and everything, I must say, however, that I am a bit uncomfortable with being the “center of attention” as has been the case the last few days.
On Saturday, I received the Broadcast Achievement Award from the Maine Association of Broadcasters. This honor carries with it induction into the MAB Hall of Fame.
I am deeply moved not only by the honor itself, but even more so in the outpouring of congratulations and support I received from my friends, family and colleagues. Some came from folks I haven’t heard from in years—some of whom I had the pleasure of seeing again at Hollywood Slots in Bangor, the site of this year’s MAB Convention.
My acceptance speech named a lot of names….but after a few minutes of my drivel, I sensed “the hook” coming out, so I did a quick wrap and left too many people out!
My thanks to Jeff Parsons from the Q Morning Show on Q97.9, who “filmed” the event on his phone, uploading to YouTube. If you are having trouble sleeping tonight, click “PLAY” below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOMLrrNTBTs
Without a doubt, the highlight of my evening was the companionship of my family. I expected my wife Peggy to be at my side. My youngest, Kevin, would have been there if not for that pesky “21+” rule at the casino. What I DIDN’T expect was the surprise addition of my oldest son and daughter, both busy college students!
John, who is a senior at RPI in Troy, New York—totally blew me away with his “casual” text asking if I would mind if he came up to Bangor for the day.
Uh…….NO, I wouldn’t mind a bit. I was thrilled!
What I DIDN’T know was that John was also an accomplice in the scheme to surprise both Peggy and I with the appearance of his sister Christina, coming from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska!
I didn’t expect EITHER of them to be there—both are extremely busy on campus with books, varsity athletics and activities. To have them both made an emotional evening even more so.
The fun started on Friday, when Meredith, Jeff & Lori from the Q Morning Show lured me into the studio with the urgent message that “smoke was coming out of the console!”
Upon bursting into the control room (with the mics on live), I was confronted with much of the Citadel staff—crammed into that room yelling “Surprise!!!!!”
Little did I know that many of these same wonderful people were already aware of my daughter’s plan to cross half the country to join me-and John’s journey from New York to be there as well.
My heartfelt thanks to both Herb Ivy (“The Captain”) from WBLM and to Mike Sambrook, Market Manager for Citadel. Herb was a co-conspirator to get my daughter from the Portland bus station and transport her to Bangor. Mike was in constant communication with Christina as well, assuring her that they would indeed make sure that her odyssey from Omaha to Chicago to Boston by plane, to Portland by bus and then to Bangor by car would be accomplished in time. When Christina’s flight was delayed, an improvised Plan B went into effect—with Mike stepping in to do the driving and feigning “car trouble” as the reason he wasn’t there on time.
Little did I know, as I was texting “congratulations” to my daughter for her reported performance in a Women’s Rowing event that didn’t exist. My face registered the shock as she walked into the ballroom.
Wow.
When I turned to Peggy to congratulate her for an Academy-award winning performance, the tears streaming down her face told me that she too had been surprised. Only John had the knowing smile of satisfaction in a devious plan well executed.
There’s no way to list everyone who has been a part of my life and career—you know who you are. I just want to THANK YOU---each of you---for putting up with me and for making my choice of livelihood such an ongoing joy.
I love you all—and thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Post-script- Several people have inquired as to why my photo in the MAB Convention Program is a Photoshop picture of my face pasted on the body of Indiana Jones.
Suzanne Goucher, President and CEO of the MAB asked for a black and white headshot. All I had was a color one, so I forwarded to Kris Currier, our in-house web genius-asking if she could make it B&W. Sending it back, she asked if her work was alright.
To which I replied, “The only way to make it better is if you could make me look like Harrison Ford”.
Done.
Well, sort of.
If you’d like my blog in your inbox, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Friday, September 24, 2010
Hey, Hey! It's The Monkees!
Back in 1965, the seed of an idea for a TV show was planted. Given the wild success of The Beatles, why not create a television program with a FICTIONAL band?
Oh, they’d be talented musicians, to be sure, but acting ability was the top priority. Producers Bert Schneider and Bob Rafelson conceived “The Monkees” thinking they could marry pop music with television and garner big ratings.
How surprised must they have been when “Last Train To Clarksville” entered the Top 40 charts on this date in 1966! The line separating artistry and manipulation wasn’t merely blurred—it was blown away!
Written by the team that also penned the Monkees theme song, Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart (who had hits of their own in the 60’s), “Last Train To Clarksville” became one of their biggest hits.
Mickey Dolenz
Davey Jones
Mike Nesmith
Peter Tork
They were heartthrobs for the teenage female target audience—and although given vocal duties right away, it took some time before the foursome had much in the way of creative input. Dolenz’s voice was perhaps the most distinctive—and he ended up doing lead vocals much of the time.
I had the opportunity to interview Davey Jones on the radio back in the 80’s. It was a telephone chat, but I admit that I was a bit nervous. After all, this was a guy who was a legitimate “star” to me as a kid—because I didn’t draw a distinction between a group like that Beatles who were naturally a phenomenon and a group like the Monkees…who were frankly, manufactured. Don’t get me wrong. I was a fan then—and oddly enough, I still am…in a weird kind of way.
Here’s a clip of the Fabricated Four—doing their hit song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ScXXaBu1Ing
It was fun to watch these guys fool around and make music and I’m sure that many bands were born due to this crazy TV show—serious musicians actually inspired by the Monkees!
From “Daydream Believer” to “(I’m Not Your)Steppin’ Stone”, the Monkees, like it or not—were an important part of 60’s music and pop culture.
Yeah, they had their critics, but it never seemed to bother them. As their own theme song stated: “We’re too busy singin’…to put anybody down!”
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Oh, they’d be talented musicians, to be sure, but acting ability was the top priority. Producers Bert Schneider and Bob Rafelson conceived “The Monkees” thinking they could marry pop music with television and garner big ratings.
How surprised must they have been when “Last Train To Clarksville” entered the Top 40 charts on this date in 1966! The line separating artistry and manipulation wasn’t merely blurred—it was blown away!
Written by the team that also penned the Monkees theme song, Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart (who had hits of their own in the 60’s), “Last Train To Clarksville” became one of their biggest hits.
Mickey Dolenz
Davey Jones
Mike Nesmith
Peter Tork
They were heartthrobs for the teenage female target audience—and although given vocal duties right away, it took some time before the foursome had much in the way of creative input. Dolenz’s voice was perhaps the most distinctive—and he ended up doing lead vocals much of the time.
I had the opportunity to interview Davey Jones on the radio back in the 80’s. It was a telephone chat, but I admit that I was a bit nervous. After all, this was a guy who was a legitimate “star” to me as a kid—because I didn’t draw a distinction between a group like that Beatles who were naturally a phenomenon and a group like the Monkees…who were frankly, manufactured. Don’t get me wrong. I was a fan then—and oddly enough, I still am…in a weird kind of way.
Here’s a clip of the Fabricated Four—doing their hit song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ScXXaBu1Ing
It was fun to watch these guys fool around and make music and I’m sure that many bands were born due to this crazy TV show—serious musicians actually inspired by the Monkees!
From “Daydream Believer” to “(I’m Not Your)Steppin’ Stone”, the Monkees, like it or not—were an important part of 60’s music and pop culture.
Yeah, they had their critics, but it never seemed to bother them. As their own theme song stated: “We’re too busy singin’…to put anybody down!”
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
George Clooney's Coming Out Party
Every actor has a persona—a carefully cultivated image that is honed through multiple performances. While the story lines may be different, the common thread is a consistency of character that audiences can recognize and identify with.
Robert DeNiro wouldn’t cut it if cast as a meek schoolteacher. John Wayne would never have taken the starring role in “Brokeback Mountain”—and Meryl Streep—who could maybe pull off anything—would likely turn down a script casting her as an illiterate streetwalker.
Of course, this luxury of crafting your image only comes with stature—that curious mix of experience and success that allows artists to pick and choose the roles they believe will enhance that stature.
Until then, ya gotta pay the bills!
That’s why it is so entertaining to see actors in their early roles, where “just getting the part” was all to be hoped for. Clint Eastwood—tough guy extraordinaire---played a lot of cheesy, definitely “not cool” roles before he hit it big.
Such is the case with George Clooney. I haven’t met a woman who didn’t think he was adorable—the very epitome of sexy. His roles today reinforce that image. It was 25 years ago yesterday, though, that George got his big break---on a hot TV sitcom.
The show was “The Facts Of Life”—and a young 24 year-old George Clooney played the part of a handyman. While he might not point to the following clip as a testament to his acting ability, he certainly didn’t embarrass himself—and it’s doubtful even then that any ladies tuned out when he was on screen. Check it out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIZ7ACvfwds
The nephew of well-know singer Rosemary Clooney—whose father Nick was a journalist and TV host, George Clooney had the talent and the looks to get noticed early. After “Facts of Life” (in which he appeared in 17 episodes), Clooney also did one-shot appearances on “The Golden Girls” and “Murder,She Wrote”. It was the TV drama “ER” in 1994 that really launched his career, one that has since moved to the big screen with box office smashes like “Oceans Eleven”, The Perfect Storm” and “Michael Clayton”.
He won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in “Syriana” (2005) and Best Director nominations and Best Screenplay nominations for “Good Night And Good Luck”. He was also nominated for Best Actor in “Michael Clayton”
That’s a long way from “Facts of Life”.
But ya gotta start somewhere.
If you’d like my blog in your box, let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Robert DeNiro wouldn’t cut it if cast as a meek schoolteacher. John Wayne would never have taken the starring role in “Brokeback Mountain”—and Meryl Streep—who could maybe pull off anything—would likely turn down a script casting her as an illiterate streetwalker.
Of course, this luxury of crafting your image only comes with stature—that curious mix of experience and success that allows artists to pick and choose the roles they believe will enhance that stature.
Until then, ya gotta pay the bills!
That’s why it is so entertaining to see actors in their early roles, where “just getting the part” was all to be hoped for. Clint Eastwood—tough guy extraordinaire---played a lot of cheesy, definitely “not cool” roles before he hit it big.
Such is the case with George Clooney. I haven’t met a woman who didn’t think he was adorable—the very epitome of sexy. His roles today reinforce that image. It was 25 years ago yesterday, though, that George got his big break---on a hot TV sitcom.
The show was “The Facts Of Life”—and a young 24 year-old George Clooney played the part of a handyman. While he might not point to the following clip as a testament to his acting ability, he certainly didn’t embarrass himself—and it’s doubtful even then that any ladies tuned out when he was on screen. Check it out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIZ7ACvfwds
The nephew of well-know singer Rosemary Clooney—whose father Nick was a journalist and TV host, George Clooney had the talent and the looks to get noticed early. After “Facts of Life” (in which he appeared in 17 episodes), Clooney also did one-shot appearances on “The Golden Girls” and “Murder,She Wrote”. It was the TV drama “ER” in 1994 that really launched his career, one that has since moved to the big screen with box office smashes like “Oceans Eleven”, The Perfect Storm” and “Michael Clayton”.
He won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in “Syriana” (2005) and Best Director nominations and Best Screenplay nominations for “Good Night And Good Luck”. He was also nominated for Best Actor in “Michael Clayton”
That’s a long way from “Facts of Life”.
But ya gotta start somewhere.
If you’d like my blog in your box, let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Harper Valley PTA
It was on this date in 1968 that Jeannie C. Riley made music history by becoming the first woman to top the Country and Pop charts simultaneously.
The song that did it was “”Harper Valley PTA”. The 23 year old singer released the song that would define her career, a tune that everyone knew would play well in Nashville and other country music hotbeds, but in big cities like New York and Los Angeles? It was hard to imagine the TWANG would be tolerated.
But tolerate they did. In fact, the sales for “Harper Valley PTA” in big markets without a track record for moving country records off the shelves was impressive.
So how did this musical nobody end up with such a smash?
Word is that it was Jeannie C. Riley’s SPEAKING voice that got her noticed. Fresh from her native Anson, Texas, Riley came to Nashville to pursue a singing career. Her day job was as a receptionist, however, and it was in this role that legendary country record producer Shelby Singleton noticed that voice. He immediately believed that Riley was the perfect fit for a Tom T. Hall song about the hypocritical residents of a fictional southern town.
Here’s a video of Riley performing her huge hit:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOZPBUu7Fro
Ironically, Jeannie was never comfortable with the song—as many fans envisioned the tune to be an autobiographically authentic work. For awhile, Riley humored her audience by dressing the part, complete with the short skirts mentioned in the song.
After a time, Riley publicly sided with the conservative values expressed (however hypocritically) in her song, became a born-again Christian---and refused to ever perform her biggest (and only real hit) ever again.
If you’d like my blog in your weekday inbox, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
The song that did it was “”Harper Valley PTA”. The 23 year old singer released the song that would define her career, a tune that everyone knew would play well in Nashville and other country music hotbeds, but in big cities like New York and Los Angeles? It was hard to imagine the TWANG would be tolerated.
But tolerate they did. In fact, the sales for “Harper Valley PTA” in big markets without a track record for moving country records off the shelves was impressive.
So how did this musical nobody end up with such a smash?
Word is that it was Jeannie C. Riley’s SPEAKING voice that got her noticed. Fresh from her native Anson, Texas, Riley came to Nashville to pursue a singing career. Her day job was as a receptionist, however, and it was in this role that legendary country record producer Shelby Singleton noticed that voice. He immediately believed that Riley was the perfect fit for a Tom T. Hall song about the hypocritical residents of a fictional southern town.
Here’s a video of Riley performing her huge hit:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOZPBUu7Fro
Ironically, Jeannie was never comfortable with the song—as many fans envisioned the tune to be an autobiographically authentic work. For awhile, Riley humored her audience by dressing the part, complete with the short skirts mentioned in the song.
After a time, Riley publicly sided with the conservative values expressed (however hypocritically) in her song, became a born-again Christian---and refused to ever perform her biggest (and only real hit) ever again.
If you’d like my blog in your weekday inbox, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Monday, September 20, 2010
Lady Gaga Comes To Portland
Celebrities weighing in on political and social issues usually make me cringe. Just because you were the star of a sitcom or had a hit record, you now have the bully pulpit upon which you can spew your all-important views on world affairs?
Hardly.
Sometimes, these “stars” are not very well versed in the issue they claim to support or oppose. Other times, they may be educated about the pros and cons—but somehow cannot articulate those viewpoints well enough to earn credibility.
Enter Lady Gaga.
She spoke this afternoon in Portland, Maine. Taking the battle directly to the backyard of Maine’s two Republican Senators Snowe and Collins in order to enlist their support to break the filibuster of Senator McCain.
Where she falls on the credibility scale has yet to be fully experienced. Her flamboyant personality and wardrobe suggest anything but a serious “artist”, but so far, the music has held up (in the pop music world, anyway)---and she at least has been passionate in her quest to repeal the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy with regard to gays in the military.
She has inserted herself into the debate directly with Congress—and the notoriety she enjoys has helped to ramp up the grass roots action. She is articulate—and her own orientation has made her credible—if only in the eyes of those disenfranchised by a government policy that would be amusing if it didn’t exact a toll on both the individual---and our country.
Here is the video (two parts) of her appearance in Deering Oaks Park today:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dr0_A0fIbXs
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4llUTHuNRKs
Since the same criteria for excluding gays in the military used to be used to exclude women, it seems reasonable to conclude that gay men and women should be able to serve without regard to their sexual orientation. It doesn’t really matter if you agree with homosexuality or not. It’s a matter of competence, not sexuality.
Had gays been excluded from the military is past wars—there’s no telling how many bonafide war heroes would have been relegated to the sidelines.
Why?
Is it because gays make straight soldiers uncomfortable? Do women make men feel uncomfortable? Do black soldiers make white servicemen and women uncomfortable? Does that matter? Fighting alongside people of different ethnicities has long been a non-issue. Men fighting alongside women has not proven a mistake.
The fact that straight soldiers have been fighting alongside gay soldiers since the dawn of this nation is also a non-issue---UNTIL (apparently) the straight soldier is AWARE that his or her platoon mate is gay. Somehow, this knowledge changes everything.
Huh?
So, “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” supposedly strikes a compromise. In essence, gays will not be allowed to serve their countries—UNLESS they keep their orientation a secret. Officers will not ask and recruits just won’t tell. Maybe it works well in theory, but not in practice.
Just ask David Hall who was discharged from the Air Force. Was he asked?
No.
Did he tell?
No.
A fellow soldier who discovered he was gay “outed” him—and he was then---out.
Didn’t matter that he was #1 in his class as a fighter pilot. Top Gun. Doesn’t matter that our government had spent at LEAST a couple million dollars training him. His competence doesn’t matter, not his patriotism, nor his desire to serve.
All that matters is that he is gay.
One doesn’t have to “agree” with homosexuality to fight for justice. It’s like “agreeing” with gravity. It doesn’t care whether you agree with it or not—“it” just IS.
About 10% of our population is estimated to be homosexual. To exclude such a huge portion of Americans from service is ludicrous. To do so is a disservice to our nation. Do straight soldiers fight only for the 90% of the population that shares their orientation—or maybe do they fight for ALL of America?
I don’t need a weirdo pop star like Lady Gaga to open my eyes to common sense. And she is a nut case.
But a whack-job who happens to be right on this one.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Hardly.
Sometimes, these “stars” are not very well versed in the issue they claim to support or oppose. Other times, they may be educated about the pros and cons—but somehow cannot articulate those viewpoints well enough to earn credibility.
Enter Lady Gaga.
She spoke this afternoon in Portland, Maine. Taking the battle directly to the backyard of Maine’s two Republican Senators Snowe and Collins in order to enlist their support to break the filibuster of Senator McCain.
Where she falls on the credibility scale has yet to be fully experienced. Her flamboyant personality and wardrobe suggest anything but a serious “artist”, but so far, the music has held up (in the pop music world, anyway)---and she at least has been passionate in her quest to repeal the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy with regard to gays in the military.
She has inserted herself into the debate directly with Congress—and the notoriety she enjoys has helped to ramp up the grass roots action. She is articulate—and her own orientation has made her credible—if only in the eyes of those disenfranchised by a government policy that would be amusing if it didn’t exact a toll on both the individual---and our country.
Here is the video (two parts) of her appearance in Deering Oaks Park today:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dr0_A0fIbXs
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4llUTHuNRKs
Since the same criteria for excluding gays in the military used to be used to exclude women, it seems reasonable to conclude that gay men and women should be able to serve without regard to their sexual orientation. It doesn’t really matter if you agree with homosexuality or not. It’s a matter of competence, not sexuality.
Had gays been excluded from the military is past wars—there’s no telling how many bonafide war heroes would have been relegated to the sidelines.
Why?
Is it because gays make straight soldiers uncomfortable? Do women make men feel uncomfortable? Do black soldiers make white servicemen and women uncomfortable? Does that matter? Fighting alongside people of different ethnicities has long been a non-issue. Men fighting alongside women has not proven a mistake.
The fact that straight soldiers have been fighting alongside gay soldiers since the dawn of this nation is also a non-issue---UNTIL (apparently) the straight soldier is AWARE that his or her platoon mate is gay. Somehow, this knowledge changes everything.
Huh?
So, “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” supposedly strikes a compromise. In essence, gays will not be allowed to serve their countries—UNLESS they keep their orientation a secret. Officers will not ask and recruits just won’t tell. Maybe it works well in theory, but not in practice.
Just ask David Hall who was discharged from the Air Force. Was he asked?
No.
Did he tell?
No.
A fellow soldier who discovered he was gay “outed” him—and he was then---out.
Didn’t matter that he was #1 in his class as a fighter pilot. Top Gun. Doesn’t matter that our government had spent at LEAST a couple million dollars training him. His competence doesn’t matter, not his patriotism, nor his desire to serve.
All that matters is that he is gay.
One doesn’t have to “agree” with homosexuality to fight for justice. It’s like “agreeing” with gravity. It doesn’t care whether you agree with it or not—“it” just IS.
About 10% of our population is estimated to be homosexual. To exclude such a huge portion of Americans from service is ludicrous. To do so is a disservice to our nation. Do straight soldiers fight only for the 90% of the population that shares their orientation—or maybe do they fight for ALL of America?
I don’t need a weirdo pop star like Lady Gaga to open my eyes to common sense. And she is a nut case.
But a whack-job who happens to be right on this one.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Friday, September 17, 2010
The Who Blow Up The Smothers Brothers
One of TV’s great—and infamous moments—happened on this date in 1967.
The British rock group The Who appeared on the wildly popular program “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour”. As most rock fans know, The Who often wrapped up a show by destroying their instruments. In fact, The Who inspired Jimi Hendrix’s famous on-stage burning of his guitar during the Monterey Pop Festival just three months earlier.
Although the Smothers Brothers appeared to be conservative members of the so-called “establishment”, they were, in fact, anything but. The duo constantly fought with CBS brass over the content of their show, which more than skirted political issues and was openly critical of the war in Vietnam, among other things.
This “on the edge” perspective was no doubt part of the show’s appeal and ratings success.
Having the latest rock groups on was another reason to tune in.
Drummer Keith Moon was in the habit of placing an explosive charge in one of his two bass drums—coordinated to detonate while Pete Townsend was busy smashing his guitar. Well, for this national TV broadcast, Moon apparently decided to pack several times the normal amount of explosives into his drum kit.
What occurred after the singing of “My Generation” was a tad more than expected—enjoy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nr81olQ1ibk
Notice that bassist John Entwistle never seemed to lose his composure. The cloud of smoke enveloped singer Roger Daltry and Townsend-whose hair was singed and blown to one side! The explosion reportedly sent shrapnel into Keith Moon’s arm and has been blamed in part for causing Pete Townsend’s eventual near deafness.
Bette Davis reportedly fainted and the show was knocked off the air momentarily.
You won’t see that kind of thing from Justin Bieber…….ah! The good ‘ol days!
If you’d like my blog in your weekday inbox, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
The British rock group The Who appeared on the wildly popular program “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour”. As most rock fans know, The Who often wrapped up a show by destroying their instruments. In fact, The Who inspired Jimi Hendrix’s famous on-stage burning of his guitar during the Monterey Pop Festival just three months earlier.
Although the Smothers Brothers appeared to be conservative members of the so-called “establishment”, they were, in fact, anything but. The duo constantly fought with CBS brass over the content of their show, which more than skirted political issues and was openly critical of the war in Vietnam, among other things.
This “on the edge” perspective was no doubt part of the show’s appeal and ratings success.
Having the latest rock groups on was another reason to tune in.
Drummer Keith Moon was in the habit of placing an explosive charge in one of his two bass drums—coordinated to detonate while Pete Townsend was busy smashing his guitar. Well, for this national TV broadcast, Moon apparently decided to pack several times the normal amount of explosives into his drum kit.
What occurred after the singing of “My Generation” was a tad more than expected—enjoy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nr81olQ1ibk
Notice that bassist John Entwistle never seemed to lose his composure. The cloud of smoke enveloped singer Roger Daltry and Townsend-whose hair was singed and blown to one side! The explosion reportedly sent shrapnel into Keith Moon’s arm and has been blamed in part for causing Pete Townsend’s eventual near deafness.
Bette Davis reportedly fainted and the show was knocked off the air momentarily.
You won’t see that kind of thing from Justin Bieber…….ah! The good ‘ol days!
If you’d like my blog in your weekday inbox, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Look At The Dancing Dog!
After yesterday’s serious blog on politics, perhaps a little comic relief is in order!
Thanks to friend and fellow Ohio State Buckeye Geoff Hornbeck for sending me the following video. With over 4 million views on YouTube, you may have seen this one already, but if you haven’t---well…you’re in for a treat.
I love critters—and dogs in particular are incredible. Unconditional love, dependability, loyalty and affection. There’s a reason why they’re called “man’s best friend”. No matter how silly we can make them look to their little dog friends, they still wag their tails and come back for more abuse.
Stupid little coats when it’s cold, Halloween costumes in October and little antlers near Christmastime. It’s a wonder they don’t turn on us and bite hard.
It’s one thing to teach the simple commands like “STAY”, “HEEL” and “SIT”. When we progress to “PLAY DEAD!”, “ROLL OVER” and “SHAKE”, we may be crossing a line in the canine world. We are, in essence, trying to make them furry humans.
Our dog Molly will have none of it. A beautiful Golden Retriever, she can deal with “sit” and “stay”, but with most other commands, we are greeted with a blank stare that we translate as, “huh?”
Not so the following hound. Check out this dog, which, despite the humiliating dress—has learned to dance the merengue—hilarious!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nc9xq-TVyHI
Amazing, no? It even appears that this dog is enjoying the whole experience!
Could have done without the party dress, though.
If you’d like my blog in your daily inbox, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Thanks to friend and fellow Ohio State Buckeye Geoff Hornbeck for sending me the following video. With over 4 million views on YouTube, you may have seen this one already, but if you haven’t---well…you’re in for a treat.
I love critters—and dogs in particular are incredible. Unconditional love, dependability, loyalty and affection. There’s a reason why they’re called “man’s best friend”. No matter how silly we can make them look to their little dog friends, they still wag their tails and come back for more abuse.
Stupid little coats when it’s cold, Halloween costumes in October and little antlers near Christmastime. It’s a wonder they don’t turn on us and bite hard.
It’s one thing to teach the simple commands like “STAY”, “HEEL” and “SIT”. When we progress to “PLAY DEAD!”, “ROLL OVER” and “SHAKE”, we may be crossing a line in the canine world. We are, in essence, trying to make them furry humans.
Our dog Molly will have none of it. A beautiful Golden Retriever, she can deal with “sit” and “stay”, but with most other commands, we are greeted with a blank stare that we translate as, “huh?”
Not so the following hound. Check out this dog, which, despite the humiliating dress—has learned to dance the merengue—hilarious!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nc9xq-TVyHI
Amazing, no? It even appears that this dog is enjoying the whole experience!
Could have done without the party dress, though.
If you’d like my blog in your daily inbox, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Incumbent Exit Fever!
Throw The Bums Out!
The primary results from yesterday across the country seem to validate the sense that Americans are fed up with Washington, with career politicians and with the backroom scheming that dictates the nature and outcome of legislation.
OK.
So, toss them all out. I agree that a large number of Senators and Congressmen/women are either out of touch, corrupt, influenced by nefarious interests or all of the above.
But, as the saying goes, be careful what you wish for. No less a Republican Party hack than Karl Rove has disparaged the victory of Tea Party backed conservative Christine O’Donnell over incumbent Mike Castle in Delaware. Rove says that O’Donnell cannot win a general election. The sharp move to the right in the First State (in Rove’s opinion) will insure the Democrats will retain that seat. As far as I can tell, Castle’s downfall was mostly because he’s currently in office. In the musical chairs world of politics, he was in the seat when the music stopped—and that’s all it took for his chair to be yanked away.
What’s a conservative to do?
Better to determine, what is the source of the anger and frustration out there? While I think that those opposed to the Democratic legislative agenda have fueled much of the angst, Republicans should be warned that the mood is as much “anti-incumbent” as it is “anti-Democrat”.
In fact, while the Tea Party’s conservative goals prove to be a better fit with Republican ideals, the extremism that has taken hold in Tea Party-backed candidates has an ominous side. Namely, the likely Republican pandering for Tea Party approval (to align with an energized voter base) may have the backlash effect of driving moderate Republicans to the other side when Election Day arrives.
As best as I can tell, the hostile attitude toward all things incumbent centers around the following rallying points:
1) We are spending beyond our means—bankrupting the country and mortgaging our children’s future.
2) Our lawmakers are not really REPRESENTING us. Public sentiment over a particular bill or proposed legislation is not reflected in the outcome.
3) The government is getting too big, taking over too much that should be in the private sector—and raising our taxes to pay for it all.
Am I leaving anything major out?
These are broad generalizations, but I think most major complaints can fit under one or more of the Big 3 above.
So, where’s the beef? Are all of the above postulates true?
I think they may be true, but the caveat in asserting they are--- is qualified by also stating there may be some short-term justification for all three.
1) WE ARE SPENDING BEYOND OUR MEANS. I am no economist, but students of the Great Depression like Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke are insistent that deficit spending by government is absolutely essential to hastening the end of a recession or depression.
In fact, it is asserted that the Great Depression would have been much shorter in duration had the deficit spending in the 30’s been more extensive and had not been thwarted by political opposition. I have no idea whether or not this is true, but no politician is versed in economic theory to the extent that his or her opinion counts for much.
Whatever you think of Bernanke ( a Bush appointee), Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner or the braintrust of Larry Summers, James Galbraith, former Fed Chairman Paul Volcker, former Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin—and at least a dozen other prominent financial minds that comprise the President’s economic team, one thing is certain: the actions that the federal government took to avert a complete economic meltdown were not motivated by politics—at least not with that crowd of economists.
In fact, getting real results ARE the best politics—and even if the American public –and right wing talk show hosts—don’t UNDERSTAND the dynamics that call for these moves, it doesn’t mean they were not necessary.
I admit that the whole idea seems counter-intuitive, but let’s face it. I’m a disc jockey---a DJ with a business degree, but a radio guy nonetheless who doesn’t deal with this on a micro or macro level daily—as do the people creating policy. Is it POSSIBLE that economic experts, working together without the distraction of seeking re-election—may be able to make better economic decisions than can, say, Rush Limbaugh, Glenn Beck and Sarah Palin?
My guess is: yes, they can, even if the results are not coming as fast as an impatient public would like.
2) OUR LAWMAKERS ARE NOT REPRESENTING US. This is perhaps best evidenced by the Health Care reform bill. Supposedly, a majority of Americans were opposed to the bill—and yet it passed anyway.
Civil Rights Legislation, if held to the standard of majority rule/public opinion polls—would likely have never passed in 1964. It took political courage to vote for one’s convictions when faced with the possibility of expulsion. Those in Congress who lose their seat based solely on their vote for the Health Care measure will pay the price for that courage.
Most will likely say it was worth it.
Leaders must not always be swayed by public opinion polls, especially when the opinions may be based on distorted information fed to them by political foes. Only time will tell if this legislation was a net positive or a net negative. The Congressional Budget Office stated without qualification that not only would the Health Care bill not be deficit neutral as proposed, but rather, it would be beneficial to REDUCING the deficit.
I prefer to accept this assessment over that of the political right wingers who called the bill a “government takeover of healthcare” It was and is nothing of the sort. The facts simply don’t support that kind of representation. Were a Public Option part of the bill (which I was in favor of to force health insurance companies to be competitive cost-wise), at least THAT provision would justify charges of Uncle Sam “taking over”. The present law does not.
3) THE GOVERNMENT IS GETTING TOO BIG, TAKING OVER TOO MUCH IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR---AND RAISING TAXES TO DO IT. The bailouts of AIG and other private banks as well as General Motors are clearly troublesome. However, many believe they were necessary to save entire industries.
The temporary nature of the bailouts and the current status of payback and return to normal operations seem to have borne this out to be a good move. No one knows the extent of a recession in the wake of the demise of GM. Depression is perhaps a more appropriate word to describe the likely effect.
As far as taxes, the Democratic plans to give tax breaks to small businesses and those investing in new technologies belie the charges of new taxes being levied. Even Republicans, who have opposed anything proposed by Obama—cannot withstand the political fallout of opposing these Republicanesque measures to stimulate the economy. Repeal of the Bush tax cuts (benefiting the wealthiest of Americans) is a weak argument for asserting the current administration is raising taxes.
So, maybe everyone in Congress should look for the exit doors and head back to lucrative “consulting” jobs or whatever ex-politicians do when jettisoned from office. To trust that their replacements will be any more effective or competent is naïve, in my view.
We’ll punish the incumbents—and soon realize the “new” folks didn’t transform the landscape much.
But we’ll all feel better, right?
If you’d like my blog in your daily inbox, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
The primary results from yesterday across the country seem to validate the sense that Americans are fed up with Washington, with career politicians and with the backroom scheming that dictates the nature and outcome of legislation.
OK.
So, toss them all out. I agree that a large number of Senators and Congressmen/women are either out of touch, corrupt, influenced by nefarious interests or all of the above.
But, as the saying goes, be careful what you wish for. No less a Republican Party hack than Karl Rove has disparaged the victory of Tea Party backed conservative Christine O’Donnell over incumbent Mike Castle in Delaware. Rove says that O’Donnell cannot win a general election. The sharp move to the right in the First State (in Rove’s opinion) will insure the Democrats will retain that seat. As far as I can tell, Castle’s downfall was mostly because he’s currently in office. In the musical chairs world of politics, he was in the seat when the music stopped—and that’s all it took for his chair to be yanked away.
What’s a conservative to do?
Better to determine, what is the source of the anger and frustration out there? While I think that those opposed to the Democratic legislative agenda have fueled much of the angst, Republicans should be warned that the mood is as much “anti-incumbent” as it is “anti-Democrat”.
In fact, while the Tea Party’s conservative goals prove to be a better fit with Republican ideals, the extremism that has taken hold in Tea Party-backed candidates has an ominous side. Namely, the likely Republican pandering for Tea Party approval (to align with an energized voter base) may have the backlash effect of driving moderate Republicans to the other side when Election Day arrives.
As best as I can tell, the hostile attitude toward all things incumbent centers around the following rallying points:
1) We are spending beyond our means—bankrupting the country and mortgaging our children’s future.
2) Our lawmakers are not really REPRESENTING us. Public sentiment over a particular bill or proposed legislation is not reflected in the outcome.
3) The government is getting too big, taking over too much that should be in the private sector—and raising our taxes to pay for it all.
Am I leaving anything major out?
These are broad generalizations, but I think most major complaints can fit under one or more of the Big 3 above.
So, where’s the beef? Are all of the above postulates true?
I think they may be true, but the caveat in asserting they are--- is qualified by also stating there may be some short-term justification for all three.
1) WE ARE SPENDING BEYOND OUR MEANS. I am no economist, but students of the Great Depression like Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke are insistent that deficit spending by government is absolutely essential to hastening the end of a recession or depression.
In fact, it is asserted that the Great Depression would have been much shorter in duration had the deficit spending in the 30’s been more extensive and had not been thwarted by political opposition. I have no idea whether or not this is true, but no politician is versed in economic theory to the extent that his or her opinion counts for much.
Whatever you think of Bernanke ( a Bush appointee), Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner or the braintrust of Larry Summers, James Galbraith, former Fed Chairman Paul Volcker, former Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin—and at least a dozen other prominent financial minds that comprise the President’s economic team, one thing is certain: the actions that the federal government took to avert a complete economic meltdown were not motivated by politics—at least not with that crowd of economists.
In fact, getting real results ARE the best politics—and even if the American public –and right wing talk show hosts—don’t UNDERSTAND the dynamics that call for these moves, it doesn’t mean they were not necessary.
I admit that the whole idea seems counter-intuitive, but let’s face it. I’m a disc jockey---a DJ with a business degree, but a radio guy nonetheless who doesn’t deal with this on a micro or macro level daily—as do the people creating policy. Is it POSSIBLE that economic experts, working together without the distraction of seeking re-election—may be able to make better economic decisions than can, say, Rush Limbaugh, Glenn Beck and Sarah Palin?
My guess is: yes, they can, even if the results are not coming as fast as an impatient public would like.
2) OUR LAWMAKERS ARE NOT REPRESENTING US. This is perhaps best evidenced by the Health Care reform bill. Supposedly, a majority of Americans were opposed to the bill—and yet it passed anyway.
Civil Rights Legislation, if held to the standard of majority rule/public opinion polls—would likely have never passed in 1964. It took political courage to vote for one’s convictions when faced with the possibility of expulsion. Those in Congress who lose their seat based solely on their vote for the Health Care measure will pay the price for that courage.
Most will likely say it was worth it.
Leaders must not always be swayed by public opinion polls, especially when the opinions may be based on distorted information fed to them by political foes. Only time will tell if this legislation was a net positive or a net negative. The Congressional Budget Office stated without qualification that not only would the Health Care bill not be deficit neutral as proposed, but rather, it would be beneficial to REDUCING the deficit.
I prefer to accept this assessment over that of the political right wingers who called the bill a “government takeover of healthcare” It was and is nothing of the sort. The facts simply don’t support that kind of representation. Were a Public Option part of the bill (which I was in favor of to force health insurance companies to be competitive cost-wise), at least THAT provision would justify charges of Uncle Sam “taking over”. The present law does not.
3) THE GOVERNMENT IS GETTING TOO BIG, TAKING OVER TOO MUCH IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR---AND RAISING TAXES TO DO IT. The bailouts of AIG and other private banks as well as General Motors are clearly troublesome. However, many believe they were necessary to save entire industries.
The temporary nature of the bailouts and the current status of payback and return to normal operations seem to have borne this out to be a good move. No one knows the extent of a recession in the wake of the demise of GM. Depression is perhaps a more appropriate word to describe the likely effect.
As far as taxes, the Democratic plans to give tax breaks to small businesses and those investing in new technologies belie the charges of new taxes being levied. Even Republicans, who have opposed anything proposed by Obama—cannot withstand the political fallout of opposing these Republicanesque measures to stimulate the economy. Repeal of the Bush tax cuts (benefiting the wealthiest of Americans) is a weak argument for asserting the current administration is raising taxes.
So, maybe everyone in Congress should look for the exit doors and head back to lucrative “consulting” jobs or whatever ex-politicians do when jettisoned from office. To trust that their replacements will be any more effective or competent is naïve, in my view.
We’ll punish the incumbents—and soon realize the “new” folks didn’t transform the landscape much.
But we’ll all feel better, right?
If you’d like my blog in your daily inbox, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Denny McClain's Gift to Mickey Mantle
With the Red Sox all but toast this season, my sports heart is now occupied with football, both college and pro. With Ohio State to root for on the NCAA side—and both the Pats and the Redskins to cheer on in the NFL (“how ‘bout them Cowboys!?”), baseball has taken a definite back seat…until next year!
This was however, a big day in baseball history, as Denny McClain became a 30 game winner on this date in 1968. I was 10 years old—and I remember how the Detroit Tigers were on fire! Denny’s feat is rare. I think Dizzy Dean first accomplished a 30 game-winning season in 1938—and no one has done it since. And, unless a team goes back to a four man rotation, it will likely never occur again.
The pivotal game was a 5-4 come-from-behind decision over the Oakland A’s. McClain was a mere 24 years old that year—and NBC, in anticipation of the milestone, broadcast the game nationally—with Dizzy Dean doing color commentary!
Perhaps the most entertaining story about McClain comes from Yankee great Mickey Mantle, who asserts that McClain intentionally let him hit a home run in Detroit that same year. Check out this video of Mantle telling the story:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdl6ABq6E3w
A lot of true competitive sports fans would be shocked or angered at this story, but not me.
I love it.
And, while I doubt that type of thing would ever happen in today’s sport, I wish it would. Not necessarily a gift homer, but the kind of sportsmanship back then that was as common as taking a pitch on a 3-0 count.
McClain was named the Cy Young Award winner (not surprisingly) in that magical 1968 season—and repeated in 1969. Then, the story turned darker as McClain was suspended on suspicion of gambling. He served prison time for racketeering in the 80’s and again a decade later for money laundering.
Maybe serving up a freebie to Mantle wasn’t the ONLY manipulation of the game that McClain is guilty of.
Still, it’s one of the all-time great baseball stories.
If you’d like my blog in your weekday inbox, just let me know! Tim.moore@citcomm.com
This was however, a big day in baseball history, as Denny McClain became a 30 game winner on this date in 1968. I was 10 years old—and I remember how the Detroit Tigers were on fire! Denny’s feat is rare. I think Dizzy Dean first accomplished a 30 game-winning season in 1938—and no one has done it since. And, unless a team goes back to a four man rotation, it will likely never occur again.
The pivotal game was a 5-4 come-from-behind decision over the Oakland A’s. McClain was a mere 24 years old that year—and NBC, in anticipation of the milestone, broadcast the game nationally—with Dizzy Dean doing color commentary!
Perhaps the most entertaining story about McClain comes from Yankee great Mickey Mantle, who asserts that McClain intentionally let him hit a home run in Detroit that same year. Check out this video of Mantle telling the story:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdl6ABq6E3w
A lot of true competitive sports fans would be shocked or angered at this story, but not me.
I love it.
And, while I doubt that type of thing would ever happen in today’s sport, I wish it would. Not necessarily a gift homer, but the kind of sportsmanship back then that was as common as taking a pitch on a 3-0 count.
McClain was named the Cy Young Award winner (not surprisingly) in that magical 1968 season—and repeated in 1969. Then, the story turned darker as McClain was suspended on suspicion of gambling. He served prison time for racketeering in the 80’s and again a decade later for money laundering.
Maybe serving up a freebie to Mantle wasn’t the ONLY manipulation of the game that McClain is guilty of.
Still, it’s one of the all-time great baseball stories.
If you’d like my blog in your weekday inbox, just let me know! Tim.moore@citcomm.com
Monday, September 13, 2010
Boy, I Must Really Be Lucky!
THE FOLLOWING IS AN ENCORE TIM MOORE BLOG
Some people never win anything.
Door prizes at trade shows, school raffles, the slot machines in Vegas or the state lotteries and Powerball. No matter how many books of tickets they buy, how many “chances” they purchase, how many magazine subscriptions they acquire to win the Publishers Clearinghouse, it seems they always come up empty. Someone else (usually in Battle Creek, Michigan) is declared the winner. Their toothy grin is prominently featured on the NEXT mailer they get showing how EASY it is to win. Another postage stamp, another disappointment.
Not me.
Why, just this week I’ve received about a half dozen e-mails from people who are looking to give me money! One is from a sheik somewhere in the Middle East who says MY NAME showed up on a list of “lost investors” of profitable oil wells who are to share in several billion dollars! What luck! All they need is about $500 to “process my application”
Another is from some relative I’ve never met who passed on and left most of their estate to me! I have no idea how they are related to me, but if I provide my Social Security number for verification, the check will be IN THE MAIL!
What are the odds that on that very same day I also received an e-mail from Microsoft informing me that since I am a PC user, I was ALREADY REGISTERED to win several million dollars in their sweepstakes! All they need is a certified check for $1,000 in order to complete my winners profile and cut me a check. They even said they would automatically deposit it in the bank for me if I sent them my account number!
This must be my lucky day!
If you'd like my blog in your daily inbox, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Some people never win anything.
Door prizes at trade shows, school raffles, the slot machines in Vegas or the state lotteries and Powerball. No matter how many books of tickets they buy, how many “chances” they purchase, how many magazine subscriptions they acquire to win the Publishers Clearinghouse, it seems they always come up empty. Someone else (usually in Battle Creek, Michigan) is declared the winner. Their toothy grin is prominently featured on the NEXT mailer they get showing how EASY it is to win. Another postage stamp, another disappointment.
Not me.
Why, just this week I’ve received about a half dozen e-mails from people who are looking to give me money! One is from a sheik somewhere in the Middle East who says MY NAME showed up on a list of “lost investors” of profitable oil wells who are to share in several billion dollars! What luck! All they need is about $500 to “process my application”
Another is from some relative I’ve never met who passed on and left most of their estate to me! I have no idea how they are related to me, but if I provide my Social Security number for verification, the check will be IN THE MAIL!
What are the odds that on that very same day I also received an e-mail from Microsoft informing me that since I am a PC user, I was ALREADY REGISTERED to win several million dollars in their sweepstakes! All they need is a certified check for $1,000 in order to complete my winners profile and cut me a check. They even said they would automatically deposit it in the bank for me if I sent them my account number!
This must be my lucky day!
If you'd like my blog in your daily inbox, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Friday, September 10, 2010
The Politicans vs. The Soldiers
Tomorrow is the 9th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks that have defined American society, culture, politics and policy ever since.
This triggering event set into motion a series of actions that are still causing death and destruction to this very day. Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan send American men and women (and those on the “other side”) to their deaths on a daily basis.
While no one will argue that the world is a better place without Saddam Hussein, there is some disagreement whether or not the world—and the Middle East in particular is a SAFER place. The vacuum created by the removal of Saddam has been filled by an increasingly aggressive Iran, now directing their venom not at neighboring Iraq—but rather at the United States.
How it will all work out is a mystery.
The one constant throughout history is that politicians, in their Armani suits and polished shoes—make decisions over brandy and cigars that cost the lives of young people who are dispatched to battlefields across the globe. Their clinical, sterile assessments of predicted casualties and perceived strategic advantages don’t take into account the human tragedy that is played out daily—as uniformed military officers knock on the doors of families to deliver the horrible news that their loved one has been lost in battle.
Not that these decisions are taken lightly—no, only the Saddams of this world will cavalierly send young people off to their deaths. Just the same, it is the soldier who pays the ultimate price for the inability of national politicians to solve problems without bombs.
Perhaps things were easier to understand in the black and white world that was World War II. It was good versus evil. It was the justified response to a direct attack by a sovereign nation on our soil.
Not so anymore.
Terrorist attacks, while perhaps facilitated by nations who harbor these thugs—are nonetheless carried out by rogue individuals. Crazed loners who misinterpret the doctrine of Islam to invoke Allah’s support for the death of Americans cannot be directly tied to the mission of an enemy nation.
So, in the absence of a target, we created one. Regardless of how you feel about the war in Iraq, it is a well established fact that this war to discover “weapons of mass destruction” was based on a lie. Upon this lie, we buried thousands of Americans, thousands of innocent Iraqi civilians and squandered billions of dollars of taxpayer money.
As critical as I can be of the media—and the American public’s perception of truth, I think that everyone has done a decent job of SEPARATING the REASON for the mission—devised by politicians---from the mission ITSELF, as executed by the hundreds of thousands of American men and women who don’t get to weigh in on its merits.
They just go.
They do their duty, bravely, valiantly and it is they—and their families—who suffer the consequences of all those bad decisions.
Watch the following video---and let me know if you are able to keep a dry eye. I couldn’t.
http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=KTb6qdPu8JE
Leaving Iraq is the right thing to do. Exiting Afghanistan is also imperative, since it is abundantly clear that we cannot (and should not) impose our values or governmental structure upon a people not willing to adopt it. The former Soviet Union found out the hard way that Afghanistan is a quagmire of tribal feuding, violence and anarchy that even the best intentioned war cannot subdue.
The billions being spent there weekly (and it is about $2 billion a WEEK) would be better deployed rebuilding America’s infrastructure and investing in the energy technologies that will make the Middle East completely expendable as a source of energy. Take away our dependence on their oil and you conquer them without bloodshed.
We salute the men and women of our Armed Forces—the best in the world! And we also pray that our leaders will govern with a wisdom that realizes that war rarely solves problems. Oh, it did in the 40’s, when world domination was the objective of the Axis powers.
In today’s world, a smarter approach---diplomacy, intelligence data, targeted attacks at terrorist strongholds and the power of economic strangulation—are far better suited to maintain America’s leadership in the world.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
This triggering event set into motion a series of actions that are still causing death and destruction to this very day. Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan send American men and women (and those on the “other side”) to their deaths on a daily basis.
While no one will argue that the world is a better place without Saddam Hussein, there is some disagreement whether or not the world—and the Middle East in particular is a SAFER place. The vacuum created by the removal of Saddam has been filled by an increasingly aggressive Iran, now directing their venom not at neighboring Iraq—but rather at the United States.
How it will all work out is a mystery.
The one constant throughout history is that politicians, in their Armani suits and polished shoes—make decisions over brandy and cigars that cost the lives of young people who are dispatched to battlefields across the globe. Their clinical, sterile assessments of predicted casualties and perceived strategic advantages don’t take into account the human tragedy that is played out daily—as uniformed military officers knock on the doors of families to deliver the horrible news that their loved one has been lost in battle.
Not that these decisions are taken lightly—no, only the Saddams of this world will cavalierly send young people off to their deaths. Just the same, it is the soldier who pays the ultimate price for the inability of national politicians to solve problems without bombs.
Perhaps things were easier to understand in the black and white world that was World War II. It was good versus evil. It was the justified response to a direct attack by a sovereign nation on our soil.
Not so anymore.
Terrorist attacks, while perhaps facilitated by nations who harbor these thugs—are nonetheless carried out by rogue individuals. Crazed loners who misinterpret the doctrine of Islam to invoke Allah’s support for the death of Americans cannot be directly tied to the mission of an enemy nation.
So, in the absence of a target, we created one. Regardless of how you feel about the war in Iraq, it is a well established fact that this war to discover “weapons of mass destruction” was based on a lie. Upon this lie, we buried thousands of Americans, thousands of innocent Iraqi civilians and squandered billions of dollars of taxpayer money.
As critical as I can be of the media—and the American public’s perception of truth, I think that everyone has done a decent job of SEPARATING the REASON for the mission—devised by politicians---from the mission ITSELF, as executed by the hundreds of thousands of American men and women who don’t get to weigh in on its merits.
They just go.
They do their duty, bravely, valiantly and it is they—and their families—who suffer the consequences of all those bad decisions.
Watch the following video---and let me know if you are able to keep a dry eye. I couldn’t.
http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=KTb6qdPu8JE
Leaving Iraq is the right thing to do. Exiting Afghanistan is also imperative, since it is abundantly clear that we cannot (and should not) impose our values or governmental structure upon a people not willing to adopt it. The former Soviet Union found out the hard way that Afghanistan is a quagmire of tribal feuding, violence and anarchy that even the best intentioned war cannot subdue.
The billions being spent there weekly (and it is about $2 billion a WEEK) would be better deployed rebuilding America’s infrastructure and investing in the energy technologies that will make the Middle East completely expendable as a source of energy. Take away our dependence on their oil and you conquer them without bloodshed.
We salute the men and women of our Armed Forces—the best in the world! And we also pray that our leaders will govern with a wisdom that realizes that war rarely solves problems. Oh, it did in the 40’s, when world domination was the objective of the Axis powers.
In today’s world, a smarter approach---diplomacy, intelligence data, targeted attacks at terrorist strongholds and the power of economic strangulation—are far better suited to maintain America’s leadership in the world.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
500th Blog!! Telemarketers Beware!
Today’s entry marks the 500th edition of the Tim Moore Blog. Over two years of doing this nearly every weekday has been a joy and a pain simultaneously---but ultimately very satisfying as I’ve found an avenue to vent and to express myself daily. Good for you because you can choose not to read/listen/pay attention on any given day.
My family has no such option, so consider yourself fortunate.
To mark this incredible milestone, the governor will make a proclamation and I will likely have a dead end street named in my honor. For my part, I will make today’s blog an encore of one of my very first, from 2008, updated with video (which I had not yet introduced as a regular feature way back then)
On the 4th of September, 2008, I was ranting about telemarketers:
My apologies in advance if you make your living as a telemarketer.
I, like most people, cannot stand telemarketers—not as people, mind you. It’s just that the very idea of calling people in their homes to sell them stuff seems so intrusive. While I haven’t gone as far as to put my number on the national “don’t call” list, the very fact there needs to be a “don’t call” list is evidence of their collective nuisance.
And yes, there really needs to be such a list. Everything from timeshares to insurance to credit cards to charities—sprinkle the legitimate ones among the hundreds of scams out there, many of them targeting the elderly-and my blood boils!
It’s fun to ask telemarketers stupid questions in the middle of their spiel….throws ‘em off, since 99.9% read a script verbatim. Once they have to start over, the chance of their squeezing a dime out of anyone is greatly diminished-and they know it.
Here are a couple of great videos—actually, it’s mostly audio, but the first is from a guy who records his calls with telemarketers—and plays a prank on them—this one is replayed during a radio station’s morning show:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKmpbJuMT40
This next one is just a one-word way to drive the telemarketers crazy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oh4EPcOpSy8&feature=related
The clever telemarketers disguise their pitch as “research”. They start with the statement-“I’m not selling anything”—and then proceed to sell you something. That’s too bad, because I used to take the research and survey calls. Now, I can’t even provide a legitimate researcher with data since they are dwarfed by the “research-as-sales” practitioners who have long closed off that avenue as well.
Perhaps that’s why the newest tactic is automated telemarketers. Recorded voices that auto-dial your number. I guess the reasoning here is that these tele-robots won’t be affected by rejection like their human counterparts. Problem is their closing ratio must be infinitely smaller. Nice people have a hard time hanging up on a real person, even a jerk. Not so with a machine.
While the urge to slam the receiver down so hard that it will drive phone shards into the ear of the person at the other end is strong, I think that toying with the tele-intruder is much more fun.
Here’s my favorite:
When one of these knuckleheads calls, express immediate great interest in their product/service and ask if they take credit cards. You will be able to hear the drool at the other end of the line. When they say “YES!”, simply ask for THEIR phone number so you can call them back when THEY are having dinner!
Works every time. They never have a number to call back—and you also get a parting shot in about interrupting one of their meals!
If you’d like my blog in your daily inbox, just let me know! Tim.moore@citcomm.com
My family has no such option, so consider yourself fortunate.
To mark this incredible milestone, the governor will make a proclamation and I will likely have a dead end street named in my honor. For my part, I will make today’s blog an encore of one of my very first, from 2008, updated with video (which I had not yet introduced as a regular feature way back then)
On the 4th of September, 2008, I was ranting about telemarketers:
My apologies in advance if you make your living as a telemarketer.
I, like most people, cannot stand telemarketers—not as people, mind you. It’s just that the very idea of calling people in their homes to sell them stuff seems so intrusive. While I haven’t gone as far as to put my number on the national “don’t call” list, the very fact there needs to be a “don’t call” list is evidence of their collective nuisance.
And yes, there really needs to be such a list. Everything from timeshares to insurance to credit cards to charities—sprinkle the legitimate ones among the hundreds of scams out there, many of them targeting the elderly-and my blood boils!
It’s fun to ask telemarketers stupid questions in the middle of their spiel….throws ‘em off, since 99.9% read a script verbatim. Once they have to start over, the chance of their squeezing a dime out of anyone is greatly diminished-and they know it.
Here are a couple of great videos—actually, it’s mostly audio, but the first is from a guy who records his calls with telemarketers—and plays a prank on them—this one is replayed during a radio station’s morning show:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKmpbJuMT40
This next one is just a one-word way to drive the telemarketers crazy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oh4EPcOpSy8&feature=related
The clever telemarketers disguise their pitch as “research”. They start with the statement-“I’m not selling anything”—and then proceed to sell you something. That’s too bad, because I used to take the research and survey calls. Now, I can’t even provide a legitimate researcher with data since they are dwarfed by the “research-as-sales” practitioners who have long closed off that avenue as well.
Perhaps that’s why the newest tactic is automated telemarketers. Recorded voices that auto-dial your number. I guess the reasoning here is that these tele-robots won’t be affected by rejection like their human counterparts. Problem is their closing ratio must be infinitely smaller. Nice people have a hard time hanging up on a real person, even a jerk. Not so with a machine.
While the urge to slam the receiver down so hard that it will drive phone shards into the ear of the person at the other end is strong, I think that toying with the tele-intruder is much more fun.
Here’s my favorite:
When one of these knuckleheads calls, express immediate great interest in their product/service and ask if they take credit cards. You will be able to hear the drool at the other end of the line. When they say “YES!”, simply ask for THEIR phone number so you can call them back when THEY are having dinner!
Works every time. They never have a number to call back—and you also get a parting shot in about interrupting one of their meals!
If you’d like my blog in your daily inbox, just let me know! Tim.moore@citcomm.com
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Elton Sings At Diana's Funeral
Hard to imagine that it was THIRTEEN YEARS AGO that a huge chunk of the world’s population tuned into witness the funeral services for Princess Diana, tragically killed in an automobile accident a week earlier.
2.5 BILLION people—from around the globe.
From obscurity to worldwide fame, Princess Diana became one of the most photographed people on the planet. Her every move was talked about in the tabloids. The once shy and retiring Diana Spencer (“Shy Di” to the press) married Prince Charles before a TV audience that counted in the hundreds of millions.
From that storybook start, marital troubles followed the royal couple—all of which were the stuff of public discourse. Through the ordeal, the public rarely if ever strayed from Diana’s side, choosing instead to vilify Charles for his extra-marital relationships and boorish behavior.
Transformed into a humanitarian who placed the needs of others above the frivolous trappings of royalty, Diana endeared herself to millions beyond the shores of the United Kingdom. Raising awareness of the deadly AIDS epidemic as well as advocating the ban against the use of landmines were hallmarks of her public impact.
Following the fatal car crash in Paris, the public grief was amazing to behold. Hundreds of thousands of people lined the streets as the former princess’ casket was taken to Westminster Abbey for the funeral.
No less a luminary than Elton John performed a re-worked version of “Candle In The Wind” during the services. Here is that performance—which still gives me goosebumps:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QdVLClrfrOk
It was remarkable to witness this version of the song, in which the original lyrics were replaced with ones crafted by Elton’s longtime companion and lyricist Bernie Taupin. “Goodbye, Norma Jean…” was replaced with “Goodbye, England’s Rose..”
Following the funeral, Elton recorded a studio version that very afternoon under the watchful eye of Beatles producer George Martin. The song was entitled “ Candle In The Wind 1997” and was released as a single. It became a #1 hit in both Britain and the United States. Despite landing as #4 on the list of the “100 Worst Pop Records” by Britain’s Channel 4 in 2004, it remains one of the biggest selling singles of all time—only Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” has outsold it.
If you’d like my blog in your e-mail box daily (free!) just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
2.5 BILLION people—from around the globe.
From obscurity to worldwide fame, Princess Diana became one of the most photographed people on the planet. Her every move was talked about in the tabloids. The once shy and retiring Diana Spencer (“Shy Di” to the press) married Prince Charles before a TV audience that counted in the hundreds of millions.
From that storybook start, marital troubles followed the royal couple—all of which were the stuff of public discourse. Through the ordeal, the public rarely if ever strayed from Diana’s side, choosing instead to vilify Charles for his extra-marital relationships and boorish behavior.
Transformed into a humanitarian who placed the needs of others above the frivolous trappings of royalty, Diana endeared herself to millions beyond the shores of the United Kingdom. Raising awareness of the deadly AIDS epidemic as well as advocating the ban against the use of landmines were hallmarks of her public impact.
Following the fatal car crash in Paris, the public grief was amazing to behold. Hundreds of thousands of people lined the streets as the former princess’ casket was taken to Westminster Abbey for the funeral.
No less a luminary than Elton John performed a re-worked version of “Candle In The Wind” during the services. Here is that performance—which still gives me goosebumps:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QdVLClrfrOk
It was remarkable to witness this version of the song, in which the original lyrics were replaced with ones crafted by Elton’s longtime companion and lyricist Bernie Taupin. “Goodbye, Norma Jean…” was replaced with “Goodbye, England’s Rose..”
Following the funeral, Elton recorded a studio version that very afternoon under the watchful eye of Beatles producer George Martin. The song was entitled “ Candle In The Wind 1997” and was released as a single. It became a #1 hit in both Britain and the United States. Despite landing as #4 on the list of the “100 Worst Pop Records” by Britain’s Channel 4 in 2004, it remains one of the biggest selling singles of all time—only Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” has outsold it.
If you’d like my blog in your e-mail box daily (free!) just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Friday, September 3, 2010
God Has A Sense Of Humor....Right?
Growing up Catholic, we were never allowed to take the Lord’s name in vain. Swearing with inclusion of ANY of the Holy Trinity was strictly off limits. In fact, when astounded as children, it was NOT appropriate to exclaim: “Oh my God!” Rather, it was “Oh, my GOSH”. Not nearly as descriptive, to be sure, but it kept you from being sent to your room. That last one my wife and I enforced with our kids too.
Such was also the case with any jokes that were not strictly garden variety, priest and nun stuff where the punch line was as tame as the setup.
As I’ve aged, I definitely have altered by viewpoint, coming to the conclusion that God MUST have a good sense of humor—after all, He created US! Additionally, much of the religious humor I hear has more to do with the human component of religion—the structure, the rituals and the incongruities that our mental picture of God and Heaven and all other supernatural phenomena have.
So, with fair warning, I’m including a clip from the standup comedy of Jim Gaffigan, one of the funniest people on the planet. He puts religion in the crosshairs here—and if you are easily offended, I’d suggest NOT watching.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2k_9mXpNdgU
I laughed myself silly watching this the first time—but that old Catholic guilt also weighed in---like I SHOULDN’T HAVE FOUND IT FUNNY. Hope you didn’t find it a bit too much.
Again, I think God has a great sense of humor—and the ability to poke fun at our religious institutions and see the humor in all situations makes us no less spiritual than the next person.
That said, I may need to include this blog the next time I go to confession.
If you’d like my blog in your in-box, please let me know—just e-mail me at tim.moore@citcomm.com and I’ll include you on the daily list!
Such was also the case with any jokes that were not strictly garden variety, priest and nun stuff where the punch line was as tame as the setup.
As I’ve aged, I definitely have altered by viewpoint, coming to the conclusion that God MUST have a good sense of humor—after all, He created US! Additionally, much of the religious humor I hear has more to do with the human component of religion—the structure, the rituals and the incongruities that our mental picture of God and Heaven and all other supernatural phenomena have.
So, with fair warning, I’m including a clip from the standup comedy of Jim Gaffigan, one of the funniest people on the planet. He puts religion in the crosshairs here—and if you are easily offended, I’d suggest NOT watching.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2k_9mXpNdgU
I laughed myself silly watching this the first time—but that old Catholic guilt also weighed in---like I SHOULDN’T HAVE FOUND IT FUNNY. Hope you didn’t find it a bit too much.
Again, I think God has a great sense of humor—and the ability to poke fun at our religious institutions and see the humor in all situations makes us no less spiritual than the next person.
That said, I may need to include this blog the next time I go to confession.
If you’d like my blog in your in-box, please let me know—just e-mail me at tim.moore@citcomm.com and I’ll include you on the daily list!
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Pigeon Impossible
Regular readers of this blog know that I’ll regularly go off on politics, religion, pop culture and sports. You name it.
No one is safe.
However, I also like to share videos that I come across—either by accident or ones sent to me by friends. Such is the case today. Thanks to Rick Cooper for passing this one along.
With over five million views, it’s quite possible that you have seen this already, but if you haven’t---you’re in for a treat.
Check out this exceedingly clever and graphically top-shelf animated short film, entitled: “Pigeon Impossible”:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEjUAnPc2VA
The computer power needed to create these kinds of graphics, texture and animation didn’t even exist just a few years ago. Now, it’s become commonplace. Still, it’s the STORY that counts—and the crafting of this little movie was first rate!
Hope you enjoyed---if you’d like my blog in your daily inbox, just let me know:
tim.moore@citcomm.com
No one is safe.
However, I also like to share videos that I come across—either by accident or ones sent to me by friends. Such is the case today. Thanks to Rick Cooper for passing this one along.
With over five million views, it’s quite possible that you have seen this already, but if you haven’t---you’re in for a treat.
Check out this exceedingly clever and graphically top-shelf animated short film, entitled: “Pigeon Impossible”:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEjUAnPc2VA
The computer power needed to create these kinds of graphics, texture and animation didn’t even exist just a few years ago. Now, it’s become commonplace. Still, it’s the STORY that counts—and the crafting of this little movie was first rate!
Hope you enjoyed---if you’d like my blog in your daily inbox, just let me know:
tim.moore@citcomm.com
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
25 Years For "The Captain"
“Longevity” and “Broadcasting” are not words that usually go together.
One very notable exception is the case of one Herb Ivy, better known as “The Captain” to his legion of fans at 102.9 WBLM. Today marks Herb’s 25th anniversary with the station!
The “Blimp” is one of 94.9 WHOM’s sister stations at One City Center—and the call letters WBLM are virtually synonymous with “The Captain”. For most fans of the Blimp, it is inconceivable to imagine one without the other.
Broadcasting is a competitive business, but the deregulation of the radio industry in the 1980’s led to the consolidation of radio station ownership. Stations which used to be separate entities (and sometimes mortal enemies!)were suddenly thrown together, as was the case in the mid 90’s with WHOM and WBLM. WJBQ (“Q97.9”) and WCYY are fellow sister stations. Maybe the results at other companies are mixed—but not so here at One City Center. Part of the reason is that it’s IMPOSSIBLE to not like and admire Herb Ivy.
First, there is the paradox of Herb the performer and Herb the human being. They are one and the same. Here’s a guy with more talent in his little finger than most people have in their entire bodies---without any semblance of ego or self-centeredness (is that a word?)
Really.
Herb, despite being a legitimate star and local celebrity---has no apparent need for any of it. He is constantly minimizing his own contributions, deflecting all credit to his terrific staff. Always positive, always encouraging, The Captain brings an energy to the building that is contagious.
His long-time morning partner for years was likewise talented, but usually got the credit for being “the funny one”. However, anyone in show business will tell you that the “straight man” is usually the reason why any duo works—and such was the case with Herb. Constantly “setting up” his partner, he had no internal need to deliver the punch line. Instead of putting on a “persona” on for the radio show, Herb was merely HIMSELF on the air---and it’s clear that WBLM listeners picked up on it.
Here’s promo video for WBLM’s “Blimp Bowl of Rock & Roll”—featuring The Captain:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-ArlykJrc4
Naturally funny, he amused listeners with his own warped personality---genuine, real-and interesting. That’s a gift—one that we are grateful he has shared with us for the past 25 years. Herb has a way of storytelling that draws you in.
U2’s Bono found this out when both of us had the good fortune to meet him in Boston a couple of years ago. Following an exclusive show at a small theatre, Herb and I had the opportunity to meet Bono. For most of us, this was a relatively brief encounter—smiles, a camera shot or two—and then off to the next person. Very friendly and cordial, but something of an assembly line. Not so with Herb.
As is his natural talent for being in the right place at the right time, Herb just HAPPENED to be the first person that Bono encountered. Instead of the quickie “meet & greet” (which in the UK is euphemistically referred to as the “grip and grin”), Herb and Bono began to talk at length. As is the case with everyone who comes across the path of The Captain, Bono was clearly enjoying his lengthy conversation with Herb—much to the consternation of those VIP’s waiting for their turn. I loved every minute of it!
Instead of reciting a resume full of call letters and varied markets, Herb is proud to state that not only is WBLM is his only radio job---it’s the only JOB he has ever had. Fresh from the University of Virginia 25 years ago, Herb was hired as an overnight disc jockey at WBLM, then operating out of a trailer in Litchfield, Maine.
Fast forwarding, Herb then ascended to the night show---and then to the WBLM Morning Show, where he has been ever since. He is also the Program Director for WBLM and WCYY. His current partner Celeste is the perfect complement to his personality—and remains the bedrock of a station where most of the personalities---from Celeste to Tommy C, Brian James (“The Guru”), Ron Brown and Dom have been at WBLM for years.
The Blimp is a legendary station—with a slew of great moments and stories (most of which cannot be repeated apparently)—and The Captain has been the ringleader throughout it all.
A true milestone—25 years.
And when people ask me—“is he really as NICE in person as he appears to be on the radio?”, the answer, as everyone who knows him can attest to----is a resounding:
“HELL, YEAH!”
Congrats Herb—on an amazing 25 years on WBLM—kicking butt---here’s to another 25!
If you’d like my blog in your daily inbox (free!) just let me know! Tim.moore@citcomm.com
One very notable exception is the case of one Herb Ivy, better known as “The Captain” to his legion of fans at 102.9 WBLM. Today marks Herb’s 25th anniversary with the station!
The “Blimp” is one of 94.9 WHOM’s sister stations at One City Center—and the call letters WBLM are virtually synonymous with “The Captain”. For most fans of the Blimp, it is inconceivable to imagine one without the other.
Broadcasting is a competitive business, but the deregulation of the radio industry in the 1980’s led to the consolidation of radio station ownership. Stations which used to be separate entities (and sometimes mortal enemies!)were suddenly thrown together, as was the case in the mid 90’s with WHOM and WBLM. WJBQ (“Q97.9”) and WCYY are fellow sister stations. Maybe the results at other companies are mixed—but not so here at One City Center. Part of the reason is that it’s IMPOSSIBLE to not like and admire Herb Ivy.
First, there is the paradox of Herb the performer and Herb the human being. They are one and the same. Here’s a guy with more talent in his little finger than most people have in their entire bodies---without any semblance of ego or self-centeredness (is that a word?)
Really.
Herb, despite being a legitimate star and local celebrity---has no apparent need for any of it. He is constantly minimizing his own contributions, deflecting all credit to his terrific staff. Always positive, always encouraging, The Captain brings an energy to the building that is contagious.
His long-time morning partner for years was likewise talented, but usually got the credit for being “the funny one”. However, anyone in show business will tell you that the “straight man” is usually the reason why any duo works—and such was the case with Herb. Constantly “setting up” his partner, he had no internal need to deliver the punch line. Instead of putting on a “persona” on for the radio show, Herb was merely HIMSELF on the air---and it’s clear that WBLM listeners picked up on it.
Here’s promo video for WBLM’s “Blimp Bowl of Rock & Roll”—featuring The Captain:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-ArlykJrc4
Naturally funny, he amused listeners with his own warped personality---genuine, real-and interesting. That’s a gift—one that we are grateful he has shared with us for the past 25 years. Herb has a way of storytelling that draws you in.
U2’s Bono found this out when both of us had the good fortune to meet him in Boston a couple of years ago. Following an exclusive show at a small theatre, Herb and I had the opportunity to meet Bono. For most of us, this was a relatively brief encounter—smiles, a camera shot or two—and then off to the next person. Very friendly and cordial, but something of an assembly line. Not so with Herb.
As is his natural talent for being in the right place at the right time, Herb just HAPPENED to be the first person that Bono encountered. Instead of the quickie “meet & greet” (which in the UK is euphemistically referred to as the “grip and grin”), Herb and Bono began to talk at length. As is the case with everyone who comes across the path of The Captain, Bono was clearly enjoying his lengthy conversation with Herb—much to the consternation of those VIP’s waiting for their turn. I loved every minute of it!
Instead of reciting a resume full of call letters and varied markets, Herb is proud to state that not only is WBLM is his only radio job---it’s the only JOB he has ever had. Fresh from the University of Virginia 25 years ago, Herb was hired as an overnight disc jockey at WBLM, then operating out of a trailer in Litchfield, Maine.
Fast forwarding, Herb then ascended to the night show---and then to the WBLM Morning Show, where he has been ever since. He is also the Program Director for WBLM and WCYY. His current partner Celeste is the perfect complement to his personality—and remains the bedrock of a station where most of the personalities---from Celeste to Tommy C, Brian James (“The Guru”), Ron Brown and Dom have been at WBLM for years.
The Blimp is a legendary station—with a slew of great moments and stories (most of which cannot be repeated apparently)—and The Captain has been the ringleader throughout it all.
A true milestone—25 years.
And when people ask me—“is he really as NICE in person as he appears to be on the radio?”, the answer, as everyone who knows him can attest to----is a resounding:
“HELL, YEAH!”
Congrats Herb—on an amazing 25 years on WBLM—kicking butt---here’s to another 25!
If you’d like my blog in your daily inbox (free!) just let me know! Tim.moore@citcomm.com
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