The 3 articles in AsianWeek - 2.28.2007.1

OK, I had the unmitigated displeasure to hear about kenneth eng on Fox News this evening. It took some time but I have found his articles, the latest of which was removed from the AsianWeek site. If you have not heard about this be prepared to be angered. On the 23rd of this month eng [not a typo, I have no respect for this individual and will not address him as Mr. or capitalize his name again] wrote an article titled Why I Hate Blacks which was published.

To call eng insane is to belittle his hate and absurdity. I will not dismiss him as those that could agree with him would find that a rallying call to defend him. I will rather address the issue at hand. Racism. It’s blatant and in this case seemingly universal. When I hear, or read, such ravings I am sorry that such small minds cannot comprehend the obvious attributes and abilities of people in front of them. It is even worse when such an individual has had the opportunity to educate themselves and failed to take the fruit of the tree.

What may be worse than the comments of eng, is the fact that editors, including editor-at-large Mr. Ted Fang, allowed these comments to reach print. This is not the first racial assault that eng has made in AsianWeek. On November 24th Proof That Whites Inherently Hate Us was run, and then the apparently self-loathing Why I Hate Asians was run on Jan 12, 2007. I have difficulty accepting that no editor was able to see this material before it was published, or that after seeing it published a retraction could not be made. It seemed inevitable that Blacks would follow and I have no doubt that Latino/Hispanics would be next.

Why would any editor allow such hate to be printed in a relatively mainstream publication (as I understand AsianWeek to be, though I am not a reader)? Why was there not a retraction after the first article? Perhaps the first could have been seen as humor, of a very ill-conceived nature, but I doubt it. Even now both of the prior articles are still online as the links show at this time. What explanation is there for this?

If it is the opinion of Mr. Fang that comments I feel are small-minded are the stuff of comedy then he should stand by it and say that. IF Mr. Fang is actually as remorseful as he claims, then all the publications of offense should be removed and appropriate retractions made. To do less is to imply that the articles have substance and that Mr. Fang and AsianWeek support the views written. I single out Mr. Fang because as editor-at-large he is directly responsible for everything that is in the publication.

I have heard from time to time, notably in Ice Cube’s exceptional program Black.White. via Nick and Bruno, that racism is dead. That it was a thing of the past. That society has grown beyond such things. Sadly it is moments like this, that despicable and reprehensible comments are not only made but allowed to flourish, that directly state racism, discrimination, and other ills born of, I believe, small-mindedness, exist today. Perhaps they won’t tomorrow but that takes active involvement.

I call on Mr. Ted Fang to remove the other 2 articles by eng, to make a retraction in AsianWeek as well as a national media outlet (as this has gotten national attention) for all 3 articles, to fire the editors that approved the publication of each of the articles, and lastly that Mr. Fang donate the equivalent of his pay for each of the months that an article appeared in AsianWeek to an appropriate charity.

This is what I think, what do you think?

Movies old and new, comic books, stocks and Jesus - 2.27.2007.1

Amid the various cries of those terrified that their stock portfolio will turn into the ultimate tax write-off, or the anger at potentially finding out Jesus may have had a family, there has been some other news. Now I won’t say that a 4% move isn’t significant for one day, but it’s really not that big a deal. For many stocks it only equates to .50 cents to $1.50 and that’s really no big deal. After more than a decade dealing with stocks and the financial markets, bumps in the road never give me pause. If you are freaking out think of this, if you believe that America will continue and that GE will still have people working tomorrow (or the next 6 months) then don’t worry. Stocks move up and down, and a good investment made for sound reasons will generally tend to work out. I’ve said that to clients as a broker for a long time. Mr. Warren Buffett said similar things for decades. And generally it is always true.

As for those who can’t live with the thought that Jesus could have been human in his actions, well that a religious interpretation. I don’t have an opinion either way. If you believe a thing then it doesn’t matter what others say, I believe. That’s why it’s called faith. Take it up with Mr. James Cameron. Enough said there.

But in the rest of the world there were a few things I’d want to touch on. Mr. James Brown has still not been buried. The drama with Ms. Anna Nicole Smith still dominates media attention while news of this successful entertainer of decades remains unspoken. I just don’t get it, not even 2 months after his death.

Another sad loss is that of Lothar-Guenther Buchheim, the author that inspired the film Das Boot. I’m not sure how many have seen this WWII submarine film, but I strongly recommend it. While it was about German U-boats it was not about Nazi’s. It was not a glorification of war, or an ideaology, but the human spirit in trying times. The will of the submarine’s captain is enough to overcome almost anything, and rally all his men to continue to live. It’s a powerful film, best seen in the original German if you ask my opinion.

On a lighter note, an end is coming to the production of The Producers. This old play, which inspired 2 films (the Mr. Nathan Lane and Mr. Mathew Broderick remake is inferior to the Mr. Gene Wilder and Mr. Zero Monstel original), resurged in a second run on Broadway and has had 2,500 performances. A run like this is quite impressive, and the material justifies it’s popularity. But if you haven’t seen it yet I’d advise the aforementioned original film. Better than the remake and, unless you like Mr. David Hasselhoff or Mr. Tony Danza, far better than the actors on stage until April 22nd.

On the comic book front a new deal will provide what is now a rare reversal, comic based on television shows. Of course I doubt this deal will be of much worth. The source of the comics material will come from programs made for SciFi Channel. While it has taken the SciFi Channel years to finally stop making giant animal films, or horrendously bad rip-offs of bad sci-fi movies, there really hasn’t been that much quality. Beyond the never ending spin-offs and additional seasons of Stargate SG-1, the terribly named, horribly ‘revisioned’, though well acted Battlestar Galactica, and the refreshing Eureka the cable channel has nothing. Just re-runs that have been on dozens of channels for as many years and cancellations of interesting programming (like Trippin’ the Rift – but there is no surprise they would do that). Oh but don’t let me forget they have the ultimate sci-fi draw, wrestling. And they wonder why they can’t keep the core audience. Good luck collecting their probably short live comic book venture. I won’t even bother looking for them.

Lastly I must mention that Black Snake Moan is due in movie theaters soon. This is the latest film with Mr. Samuel L. Jackson and Ms. Christina Ricci. While the film does have Mr. Justin Timberlake as well (hopefully in a very minor role) it sounds as if it is more than the name and posters imply. I noticed the posters earlier this month will back home in New York City. If you haven’t seen them, expect to be caught off guard. When the television commercials start you’ll understand why, and I’m sure there will be someone protesting. I’ll give you a hint, an older Black American has a young White girl chained in his house while scantly clothed. Oh, and it’s in the South. If that doesn’t catch your attention I don’t know what it will take to get it. I just have to see this film, if the 2 theaters in this small town will play it. What about you? Are you looking forward to a film like that? Why?

This is what I think, what do you think?

And the winners are - 2.25.2007.1

So the Oscars Awards have been handed out. As always there were a few surprises a few let downs and a couple of sure things. I was glad to hear of Ms. Jennifer Hudson’s win. I’m very glad to know that Mr. Forest Whitaker received recognition for his performance in The Last King of Scotland. As my choices go those were right on the mark.

Of course there was the win by Mr. Martin Scorsese for his movie The Departed. Considering how many times he has been nominated there is no shock in his win. The Academy definitely lives up to it’s history of rewarding today for actions in the past. While there are stand-out moments, and big wins for deserving newcomers, like Ms. Hudson, generally winners in the top categories are those with long histories.

Of course the recent wins by Mr. Jamie Foxx and Mr. Whitaker do seem to fly in the face of that. Not to mention the Oscar Academy’s penchant for ignoring any non-white performers. Yet there is still the fact that Dreamgirls was historically not nominated for best picture. Historical in that it was the first time that the film with the most nominations was not also nominated for best picture. Perhaps the fact that only 1.9% of the Academy is African American (out of 5830 members) has had something to do with that.

And yet the Oscar Academy was very consistent in nominating films that the general public never saw, and most likely never will. The difference in what the public feels was a great performance and what the Academy deems award-winning is a vast ocean apart. I’m referring to the loss of Mr. Eddie Murphy. Widely held as the best performance in his acting career, winning several awards leading to this ceremony and then snubbed. Perhaps it had something to do with the fact that his next film, Norbit, was a comedy and low-brow. Of course it was made well in advance of the release of Dreamgirls or the Oscar nominations. Comedy is what he has built his career upon. Not that that is a positive in the eyes of the Academy. Some have noted that his joking manner at the Screen Actors Guild Award cost him. Let me say it again, comedian.

Well given the snub of Dreamgirls, and Mr. Murphy I am left with a single thought. I hope that directors will not ignore Mr. Murphy and his abilities.

This is what I think, what do you think?

Repost of Letter to Senator John McCain - 2.24.2007.1

This is a repost from www.mvass.com:

February 23, 2007
Senator John McCain,

I am writing your today due to your announced intention to seek the Presidency of the United States in the 2008 election. I have made similar inquiries to Senators Clinton and Obama, Mr. Edwards and Mr. Romney. I intend to also contact other individuals that seek the Presidency in the future.

Senator McCain, it is my firm belief that it is never too soon to ask questions of those that wish to hold the highest office of the nation. I believe that the right of American citizens to vote for our representatives in government must be tempered with a reasonable understanding of the positions and opinions of the candidates we must chose from. I equally feel strongly that those candidates, especially those seeking the Presidency, have an obligation to provide a full and clear explanation so that the public may make the best choice for the nation.

I also wish to make you aware that I am not just asking questions of you positions for my own benefit, but that of thousands of individuals most of which are Americans. By this I mean that each letter I have sent out has, and will be, reproduced word for word on several websites and blogs that I own or write for. These postings reach a cross-section of America in cities and towns of all sizes found in every state, and citizens of every political party, race, sex and age group.

While I cannot say that I can motivate these readers to vote as a group to or for any one individual, which is not my intention but rather providing information, I can say that there are far more than enough reading to have changed the outcome of the last 2 Presidential races.

I will further add that any responses to the following questions will be reproduced on the same sites this letter will be found on. I will NOT edit or change a single word of any response. I believe that your unalter comments are far too important.

If you wish to review some of the proposed websites they will include, but are not limited to, the following: www.mvass.com, www.blackentertainmentblog.com, www.vassconsult.com/politics/election2008.html .

As for my questions, one of the most prominent is that of your age. If you were to win the Presidential election you would be 72 years of age. Do you feel that your age is, or could become during your term, a matter of concern? If it is not, why do you believe this?

In reference to the current war in Iraq, and more generally on the issue of terrorism, you have stated clearly that you believe that America must act with decisive strength without pause until the mission is attained. You further have clearly stated that actions to limit troop strength or resources for troops is tantamount to emboldening the enemy. In the face of growing opposition to the war, why do you feel such a stance is required? What do you foresee as a consequence if we do not continue to fight? What exit plan do you have for Iraq, and how would you implement such a plan? What do you believe to be the steps in the near future that will be needed to ensure the safety of Americans at home and abroad?

I respect and understand the experiences you had during the Viet Nam war. My father also served in Viet Nam, in the Marine Corps, and I too volunteered for service. Given the tribulations of your decorated time in service, how would you lead the nation in dealing with the question of terrorist captives (which I believe do not fall under the Geneva Code) and gaining information to prevent future terrorist activities?

It has been noted that your positions on several issues have changed since the 2000 Presidential campaign or even before that. One of the questions has been your stance with regard to conservative Christians, specifically Rev. Jerry Falwell, where you seem to have backtracked. What was the motivation for your change of opinion from 2000 to 2006?

In regard to your stance on Roe v. Wade, you have said in 1999 that you would not repeal the law, though you wished there was no need for it. Recently you have changed your opinion to be actively against the law. What has caused your more aggressive stance?

Considering that you are in favor of teaching abstinence, against other forms of sex education and birth control, what do you believe will happen to those women that become pregnant if Roe v. Wade is repealed? Also what responsibility does the government have to mothers that find themselves with children but without enough means to support those children, and where does that funding come from, again if Roe v. Wade is repealed?

You have mentioned in the past, as I understand, that you would like to give a means for the illegal immigrants in the nation today to become citizens. What process would you follow to do this and do you feel that even the consideration of such a law would encourage further illegal immigration? Also by making a potentially 10-20 million individuals citizens in an extremely short period of time, how would the government handle the surge in social programs and government agencies (such as local DMV, Social Security, Welfare, Unemployment and so forth)?

I have certain fears in regard to embryonic stem cell research, which you have changed your opinion on. What swayed your opinion, and how would you as President help to restrict abuses from this research (such as genetic based diseases, targeted to specific genotypes such as Native Indians or Negroids or Pacific Islanders)?

What legislation have you enacted that directly improved the lives of African Americans and Hispanic or Latino Americans in your home state and the nation? In regard to education, what specific actions would you take to stem the growing numbers of African Americans that are dropping out of high school and/or finding the cost of higher education impossible to overcome?

I want to thank you for taking the time to read this letter. I look forward to your response. I again mention that this letter, and any response will be posted without an alteration.

Sincerely,

Michael Vass
President – M V Consulting, Inc.
Author – Black Entertainment USA and Vass
vass@vassconsult.com

Ishmael Beah, Muslim mathematics - 2.23.2007.1

So my latest development is almost ready, and thus I will soon be back to my regular schedule of posts. I think everyone will enjoy my latest project, and I am eagerly looking forward to comments on it.

But in the meantime I have noticed that Black History Month has been rather quiet on the news about African Americans. For the entire year this tends to be the time where the most positive news reports and historical facts are presented to the public. Yet, this month seemed to be void of virtually any news.

Perhaps the fact that Mr. James Brown has not been buried for 2 months was not the most positive story, but I think it is news worthy. [If the 2 weeks that Ms. Anna Nicole Smith has not been buried is any example] But there has been little else in the news, not even the usual fluff news items. If the general media can’t find anything positive to say, what will the rest of the year look like, I wonder. Perhaps I have been working to hard though and missed some items. Am I wrong? Have you seem any positive, and hopefully substantive, news out there?

But I did notice somethings that caught my attention. While neither is directly about Black Americans, they do deal with our history and roots. The first deals directly with our past. Though it is well understood that the whole of mathematics as it exists today is a direct result of the introduction of the number 0 by Egyptians to the less civilized peoples in the north Mediterranean (as I recall, correct me if I am wrong). It has been reported that it was this advanced understanding of mathematics that helped create the Pyramids. But Western Society takes many of the claims for further advances in the sciences and mathematics after that time.

Of course this is wrong. And now there is so further vindication. Besides the fact that some of the medical advances that helped reign in the Plague came from the Middle East, there is now evidence that some of designs in Mosques dating back as far as the 1100’s reveal advanced mathematics that were so advanced they weren’t recognized until the 1970’s and only now being fully understood. Only now is it seen how the designs made while Europe was in the Dark Ages, were growing in complexity and reflected advanced knowledge. Nice to see some respect, even if it took a millennium to get it.

On a somber and sobering note is a book that I think may be worth reading. A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier seems to be a reminder, to me at least, that for all the problems in America life is not that bad. This is a true story of the life of a man, that as a child lived and fought in a civil war in Sierra Leone. This is the worst kind of life any child could live through. The fact that the civil strife in Africa is often overlooked by American media makes this even more important.

But there is also the fact that Mr. Ishmael Beah has been able to overcome these horrors, to some degree, and has graduated Oberlin College and written this book is a testament to America. I must note that even rap music has had the unforeseen benefit of saving lives of children during the brutal violence, which amazes me.

Starbuck is promoting this book, and more should be said of this story. Not only during Black History Month, but throughout the year. I find it inspirational that Mr. Beah has overcome so much. I find it a wake-up call that he could come to America and achieve so much after living through horrors that do not afflict African Americans. I also find it sad that this had to happen to any child, and that so little about this strife was ever mentioned here.

Drugs, racism, poverty (as Americans consider it), and other ills do exist but they can all be overcome. Life could be so much worse. We could do more. I feel this book could help many understand that. As I said, it’s on my list of books I want to read.

This is what I think, what do you think?

Final part of thoughts about USAToday.com opinion piece - 2.21.2007.4

Continued from part 2...

Racism and injustice cannot be noticed if a light is not shed upon them. That is what Black History Month is for. With respect to Mr. Kluger’s point, it’s not the time to hype that finally African American coaches made it to the Super Bowl, but to notice that not one Black American has ever owned a football team. Matter of fact, to my knowledge, no African American has owned more than part (less than half) of ANY major professional sports team. It’s not time to notice that a African American is being talked about as a Presidential candidate, but what is being said about this candidate [see my post Senator Biden and Senator Obama - 2.1.2007.1].

This is what our children need to learn. To see the whole picture. To understand that inequality exists, and that some choose to overlook it or reword it. They need to look beyond the surface and understand what is really happening.

“What kind of responsibility do we parents have in educating our children about the sad legacy of racism that has run through our nation's life like a persistent electrical current? Do we bequeath that shame to our kids out of a sense of obligation, charging them with the task of carrying the long, hard fight of our troubled heritage into a new era? Or do we quietly give thanks for their blissful naiveté- their lucky late-century birth - and hope that the deeper sense of fairness that is already evident in their new generation may take root in America's future? Do we leave well enough alone?”

The responsibility of adults today is to educate the youth that the electric current is still on. The obligation is that we still have to have the hard fight in this new era, and that is a shame. There is no naiveté, unless we choose to look away and pretend it exists, and many have no choice but to see its reality. The hope of fairness, which exists in some aspects of the youth must be balanced with the reality that ‘ghetto’ parties at our colleges and institutions of higher learning are the new degradation du jour. That to leave well enough alone has been the systemic poison that we have followed for decades now, and it has led to regression more than improvement.

Black History Month is about action, in all forms. This is what needs to be passed on. I’m grateful that I will never have to be confronted with a situation that Mr. Kluger’s babysitter Elizabeth encountered. I am not confident that my nephew, or his children, will never have that same conviction. This month and all months are a time to ask why America has made reparations to Native American Indians and Japanese Americans, but not even an apology has been offered to Black Americans ever.

So again I say, I do agree in part with Mr. Kluger but I respectfully disagree as well. In almost 40 years, having lived in various parts of the nation and the world, I do not see the same improvements. I live through many troubles that have not changed. And I see the potential for regression.

This is what I think, what do you think?

More thoughts about Black History Month - 2.21.2007.3

Continued to from part 1...

I say this to say that America has not truly changed as much as many would like to believe. Yes there are fewer lynchings, but they have not completely stopped. Yet the number of African Americans that get shot down – unarmed – or beaten by police has risen dramatically. Public transportation and schools and other places are not segregated anymore. That is de facto segregation. Public schools and inner city schools are routinely under-funded and ill-equipped. Not one of my siblings, nor I, went to a school with books nor other materials that were even remotely current. Oddly enough those same schools were predominantly non-white in their student over-population. Yet schools a mere 3 miles away with a different demographic did.

I can be in a car with a mix of people in it, but as I have recounted on my sites and posts if I am in the ‘wrong’ neighborhood I have had police pull me over for no reason to get a ticket. Or I have had guns pulled on me by police officers as the white occupants of the car are asked if they are ok, and if the vehicle is theirs. I’m not talking about these actions happening in a ‘ghetto’ or poor or high drug area. I mean West Hollywood, the Jersey Turnpike, Downtown Manhattan, the Westside of Binghamton and other areas.

Unemployment, Teen pregnancy, dropouts, jail sentences and drug abuse are all over-weighted and disproportionately affecting Black Americans, Hispanics, Latinos, and other minorities.

This is not to say there is no forward progress. Interracial dating exists and is not wholly despised. I do not get routinely assaulted with racial slurs. I have held, and hold, prominent positions in business. I own my own business and am unimpeded in my operations. Other members of my family have had equal, and are becoming even better, successes.

But the impression that there is no racism is abound like mana from heaven. Many of the youth feel that nothing holds them back. Many think that all the ‘talk’ about racism is old news. The reason is because the trappings are different. One Black man being harassed at gunpoint by the police is just an incident. One African American being shot to death while unarmed is tragic. But both of these items being repeated through out the nation many times are endemic of a problem. One Latino being charged more for a car purchase, one minority being given a higher interest rate on a mortgage is a bad negotiation. Millions being given these disproportionate rates is systemic.

The fact is that unlike the 60’s and 70’s the media do not connect the dots that so many live under. For all the technology at the hands of the youth today, there is no connection to facts in action. With so much information, applied like buckshot, many events don’t get coverage and are thus assumed to not exist. The Sean Bell case received less than 1/10th the airtime that the death of Anna Nicole Smith has gotten so far. Drop out rates have barely been mentioned in reports of how education is performing in the nation. The justice system is so convoluted that no one notices or reports the inequality there.

Continued in part 3 ...

Response to Bruce Kluger at USAToday.com - 2.21.2007.2

I’m not sure how many read the piece by Mr. Bruce Kluger, but I hope many did. The opinion found on USAToday.com today was a well-balanced view of America. Very well-balanced from the view of a White American. I say that with no disrespect intended, rather with the emphasis that while there have been many improvements in the nation when it comes to race, they are just superficial. I do not fault Mr. Kluger or his opinion, I think it is accurate to a degree. I just feel it needs to be expanded on from a different view point.

When I was in elementary school, some 30 years ago, I recall that I was definitively told that I could not speak to Rosemarie because she was white, by her older brother. I recall how this public scolding made me feel, especially as every parent and older kid there said and did nothing to stop him. Not even a cross look. That was in the later 1970’s.

Let’s fast forward to 2006. I have spoken several times on experiences I’ve had and quite a few I haven’t. I recall in late October – November how I was confronted by a man for speaking to his girlfriend’s friend. Both women were white. The one I was speaking with was a friend, and I knew both women previous to this encounter. I was given a clear understanding of what the man’s problem was. I was, in his eyes, a Black American. [I in fact am a Black Puerto Rican and proud of it]

Another situation in 2006, I detailed in a previous post. You can read it at What is a Black African Hispanic American supposed to think?. Given 3 decades there has been no change in some opinions. It’s not nearly as uncommon as some believe, especially as you travel farther from major cities into the ‘heartland’ of the nation.

But there is little change in business as well. If I had $5 for every time a client of mine did a double take upon meeting me I’d be far wealthier. As a stockbroker I have won bets and stunned colleagues by the reactions clients had upon meeting their broker for the first time, in some cases after having been their broker for 5 years. Luckily I was either an exceptional broker [which I was and many former clients to this day will still attest to] or highly charismatic - or perhaps a combination of both – because I never lost a client due to my color I am aware of. I did have some clients stop sending new funds and taking fewer of my calls, counter to their prior trend, though.

I cannot count how many times I have been told that I am ‘articulate’ or ‘speak really well’. That is virtually never a compliment, it is a comment that is used almost exclusively for non-whites. It is meant to convey a back-handed compliment. It implies that, excluding the individual getting the compliment, all others of that group are incapable or generally without the ability to speak or comprehend English. That rational though, as conveyed by language, is beyond this group. For those that question the thought I suggest you think back to the last time you heard or spoke such a comment. Visualize who the comment was made to. Then recount the last time you have ever heard the comment given to someone that is white. Then speak to a white person you have never met, and give them this ‘compliment’, I am sure the perplexed look they give you back will make my point.

Continued in part 2 ...

James Brown getting buried, Anna not yet - 2.21.2007.1

Well there are 2 things I can say today. The first is the good news that Mr. James Brown is finally being laid to rest. You may not have noticed the news on Mr. Brown, or the fact that he has not been buried for 2 months, as the main media seems to have found it unimportant. It definitely did not deserve as much coverage as the multiple hours of news dedicated to the death of and trials about Ms. Anna Nicole Smith, if the time dedicated to the story is the criteria determining worth. I feel it needed more attention.

The fact that Mr. Brown, the Hardest Working Man in Show Business, has been prevented from finally getting rest should have been mentioned. But not unlike my comments on the last stupid waste of time dedicated to a worthless cause (the battle between Rosie and Trump) I see that the current waste of time (about Ms. Smith) is far more important than any other news. Even news about Iraq, Iran and its nuclear ambitions, and the presidential hopefuls are all supplanted. It’s a shame that the news media is chasing the money no less than Mr. Howard K. Stern, in my opinion.

I must note that there is a major bias here. Like the Smith case, there was a dispute over where the deceased may be buried. There was, and is, a contest over the estate and the wealth that goes with that estate. There is also a child who may or may not benefit from the estate. And lastly there is a test of paternity that will be done with DNA being collected from the deceased.

Yet I notice that there are differences that count. Ms. Smith was a beautiful woman, but contributed little to the whole of entertainment or society. Mr. James Brown recorded records for decades with many being considered classics that continue to be heard even by the hip-hop generation of today. Anna Nicole made some money as a model and a bit more for a television ‘reality’ show, but the bulk of her wealth is tied to her marriage to an elderly billionaire. Mr. Brown, the Godfather of Soul, made his wealth from being an entertainer and was performing until the time of his death (he was scheduled to perform on New Year’s Eve in New York City). The estate of Mr. Brown has a value and is a known quantity, Ms. Smith’s estate may or may not be worth roughly $400 million dollars depending on court cases. Mr. Brown is known by millions world-wide, of all ages and races, and had thousands attend his viewing. Ms. Smith has become popular to millions and is well known to younger generations, mostly for the aforementioned lawsuit and reality television show.

Considering the commonalities and differences, and noting that former President Ford died at nearly the same time yet almost as much time was spent on the death of Mr. Brown, I am befuddled at the attention given to Anna Nicole Smith. What special happenstance is there where the delays in burying Mr. Brown warranted no attention?

The only differences that I am aware of are those I mentioned above (which would lead one to think that more attention was due to Mr. Brown’s estate) and the facts that one was a Black American, one was definitely on drugs, one had a child die recently, and one was old. What does this lopsided (actually I’d say one-sided) media attention say about the media and us as a society? How can any of us feel good that in both cases, the desire for wealth precludes the ability of celebrities (or anyone for that matter) to be laid to rest. Are a couple, or even millions, of dollars worth the indignity of allowing people to decay while the living bicker over the pennies that are left behind. Isn’t it obvious that the children demand the satisfaction of security and they should be left with a legacy that does not involve money-grubbing. Imagine the life you might have if one of the most vivid memories you have of your deceased parent, and public photos of them, pertain to the battle for the money they had.

I cannot imagine that either child will have a ‘normal’ life. Even considering how far from the norm celebrity’s children’s lives generally are. If for no other reason (beyond the fact that this news is not important) the charade should end for the benefit of those children. I have a simple solution to it all.

If there is no will giving the estate to a parent it goes to the children. The money and estate are placed in a trust that cannot be touched until the child is 21. The executor of the trust is picked by the court and cannot be a parent, also the executor must file the status of the estate with the court every year to ensure it is not being wasted. No money goes to the parent or anyone else. If you want the child, get a job and raise them.

This is what I think, what do you think?

Too much on Anna Nicole Smith - 2.20.2007.3

It’s amazing what is going on with the Anna Nicole Smith burial case. This is just too much. The trail has been THE story on Fox News for about 3 hours. If you thought that Mr. Donald Trump vs. Ms. Rosie O’donnell was a waste of time, I have no idea how to classify this. Seriously other things are happening in the world.


But this must be spoken on in a brief manner. It is obvious that for many of the participants this is all about money. That is quite sad. From what I can gather, Mr. Stern was never the husband of Anna Nicole. He is able to gain financially from the will. He was aware of what would be in the will when it was made. He is trying to establish that he will is sound, and that the will and the birth certificate give him the rights to the name and image of Anna Nicole as well as managing the inheritance of the baby.

Perhaps it is me, but it seems like Mr. Stern was all about the money almost from day one. His only client since 2002 was Anna, he benefited from her will, he was around her as she used drugs, and he was ‘involved’ with her while she had sexual relationships with other men. This does not sound like a caring individual. And he ‘generously’ offered to give up the commission fees that he is entitled to via the will, though he will not give up the right to manage any money from the will. To me he has clearly stated he is after the money.

It seems quite clear that he has no idea who the biological father is. I believe he is quite sure it isn’t him. Of all the people that have claimed the child, Mr. Birkhart seems to be the only one with a valid claim and an interest that goes beyond the money. He has been trying to claim his rights as the father before the issue of inheritance was ever an issue. Mr. Stern needs to take a paternity test and this will all get resolved incredibly quickly.

This case just shows how much waste is in the justice system. I have no doubt that new laws will be created based on this case so future cases can be even more confused. This is a sign that the baby girl of Anna Nicole will be quite messed up.

And some think that black families are odd. I’ve never seen such a confused case, talk about Baby Mama/ Baby Daddy drama.

But what about the news on Mr. James Brown’s body? What about the difficulty in that case? Where is the news on that? Why hasn’t the Godfather of Soul been allowed to be laid to rest?

With news 24/7 I can’t imagine there is nothing of more importance happening in the world. What has happened on the Sean Bell case? What of the Hispanic child that an Amber Alert has been released on? What about the news of the premature black baby that was the size of a pen when she was born? For 3 hours there has been no mention of anything else. That is perhaps more sad than anything else.

This is what I think, what do you think?

Black Fraternities and Sororities are more than Stomp The Yard - 2.20.2007.2

I was recently looking at television and noticed a commercial for Stomp The Yard. I was reminded that I had wanted to speak on this subject. I mean the Step Shows. This movie is a big production on what is essentially a small part of Black Fraternities. When I say small I mean exactly that.

I presume that many non-African Americans in or out of college are unfamiliar with what a Step Show is. I further believe that even fewer have ever seen an actual show. That is a loss, as the event is quite spectacular. In many ways a step show reminds me of watching military drill, to a degree like the Marine Corp Silent Drill Team. The degree of precision, timing, style and innovation is unique and stunning.

I can say that prior to my going to college, at Rutgers University [I do not like the administration of that institution by the way], I had never heard of a Step Show. I had barely known of the Black Greek Association. This was not a unique thing as no one in my neighborhood was familiar with this either.

This movie was a great opportunity to delve into that rich history of Black Fraternities and Sororities. Many have existed for nearly a century now. They have help improve communities, and enrich lives since their inception. Many notable figures in history have been members of the Black Greeks, including Dr. Martin Luther King. Yet none of this is in the movie.

Similar to the movie Drumline, nothing of depth is really discussed about the black colleges or the Greeks. The benefits are glossed over, the goal of enriching minds with knowledge is tertiary. The whole point that this is taking place at a college is so unimportant as to be replaceable with a high school background without notice. That is sad. The events, a step show or marching band, are significant and have a history of their own. Yet they are hardly the focus of the organizations that encompass them.

If these types of movies drive more interest in Black history, help to create more members to the fraternities and sororities then they are well worth the time. I doubt this will be the case. The focus is far to shallow, seeking to hype a lesser activity in a much larger sphere of opportunity. Members of the various National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations may disagree. Perhaps they are seeing increased interest, which I cannot. If so I look forward to hearing from them.

Until that time, I wish that there would be a movie that can capture more of the real importance of being at a Black college, of just being African American at a college. Right now I think that Mr. Spike Lee’s School Daze conferred the most about all the various aspects. That same movie offered the most important thought for an African American, student or not. “Wake up!” was the call. Yet multiple films since seem to focus on putting us to sleep about various aspects of college and enriching our minds and spirits.

Stomp The Yard looks good. The Step Show is impressive. But college and the knowledge it can impart, and our ability give back to our communities, is more than just a superficial passing thought.
If you want, do a google search on the Black Greeks. They are : Alpha Kappa Alpha, Alpha Phi Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Iota Phi Theta, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Phi Psi, Phi Beta Sigma, Sigma Gamma Rho, Zeta Phi Beta.

[I am not a member of any fraternity. In case you wondered.]

This is what I think, what do you think?

Discussing Ghost Rider, Thank You for Smoking and 300 Spartans - 2.20.2007.1

The latest comic book brought to life has occurred in the film Ghost Rider. Every comic book collector my age and younger should feel vindicated now. It seems that every great series has, or is planned, to be brought to life. The only reasons seem to be that Hollywood can’t think up a new idea, and the fact that the rich storylines found in comics is easy to transfer to film. Even the execs that love to ‘revision’ storylines can’t help but try to delve into the history these comics have developed and the fan base they have cultivated.

I am a fan of the early Ghost Rider story, and the far later Johnny Blaze story line. From what I’ve seen from commercials there is a bit of each in the movie. This may explain why it has done so well. It’s not just a kiddie story, and Xatharos is no happy protagonist. I doubt that many fanatical Christians will be watching the film because of this, but in my mind that is there loss. The special effects look phenomenal, Xatharos looks real. I love the bike as well. I like the inclusion of a Nightmare (demonic flaming horse of mythos). I need to go see this film, but anyone who has and knows the storyline – please tell me what you thought of the movie.

Speaking of movies I want to see and enjoyed, have you seen Thank You For Smoking? I love this film. I don’t get to the movie theater as often as I would like and I recently saw this film on DVD. It’s a great film. Very much in the style of Wag the Dog. It’s not a film of good guys or bad guys. There is no black and white absolutes to the characters in the film. Everyone is a shade of gray, and it’s realistic. Mr. Aaron Eckhart does a fabulous job as the lead Nick Naylor.

The question of this film is not if smoking is bad. It’s not a liberal, left-wing anti-smoking rant. It’s not a pro-smoking or conservative choose-for-yourself film either. It’s simply a story of a man, living in the world as it is and doing the job he is best at. Considering the less than beneficial motivations of everyone in the film, it’s surprising the number of top list actors that are involved in this low-budget film. I particularly loved Mr. Rob Lowe’s performance as a Hollywood uber-mogul, getting anything done for the right price and severely absorbed with Japanese culture and a God complex. [Of particular fun was the line where he mentions that he only sleeps on Sunday]

It’s an intellectual film, so yes expect words over action. It’s not Grand Canyon though. Watch out if you have a smart child though. The argument [and not a negotiation] that Nick’s son gives his mother is both sharp and, if it were in my family, well deserving of a slap.

Of course if you are a anti-smoking fanatic, you may not enjoy the film as much as I did. If you can follow the logic and fast paced A is similar to B therefore C slippery slope then you will love this.

If you are interested in action I think the next film, 300 Spartans will be of interest. The bad part may be that the film will have little historical accuracy. Like many films today it will focus on imagery and not on the story. That may be sad as the story is legendary. I’ve spoken on it previously so I won’t go into more detail.

This is what I think, what do you think?