Movie Preview: Green Zone

Let's say you are a Hollywood Liberal. You hate President Bush, dislike Republicans, loathe the war in Iraq (and likely Afghanistan) and gernerally want to tell the world that America is wrong (on just about everything). What do you do?

The result is likely Green Zone. A film that focuses on the Iraq War in it's pre-surge stages. A time when admittedly America was not focused in it's efforts or goals. A war that did not have a clear justification, and was the focal point of Liberal disgust with the Government.

But films of this nature have been made before. Lions for Lambs is just one example. There are many. The general public made a clear statement that such films were distasteful, and far too politically biased, to be worthy of viewing - even as DVD's or on cable. Thus the Hollywood Liberal is stuck; wanting to spread a message that no one wishes to hear, nor believes in total.

Green Zone resolves that in 2 ways. First is the use of Matt Damon, a solid actor, as a quasi-Bourne/average joe soldier. Damon is the spy/soldier of fortune of this generation. Sort of a Rambo with a brain or Bond with brawn. His name is sure to draw action and adventure fans, while still bringing in a female audience that just likes his looks.

The second part is the loose use of the book Imperial Life in the Emerald City: Inside Iraq's Green Zone. A book that purported to not pick sides, and was a moment in time in the war in Iraq. A moment that specifically emphasizes the less than stellar actions of America.

With these 2 elements a film can be created that sets the American Government as bad guys, the American soldier as caught in the middle of deceptions and intrigue, and the military as bullies. It can ram home the dreams of the Liberal Hollywood in a format that will seem less political in movie trailers and finally be seen by the public at large.



I am a fan of Matt Damon. I like his acting, and I have no doubt that he will make this role interesting. Politically we are on opposite sides of the spectrum, which is fine. Until politics invades a movie in the disguise of entertainment.

I don't mind politics in movies. Anti-war movies and those with political commentaries can be great films. Like Apocalypse Now or Platoon. When the point is entertainment and then politics and not the other way around.

I dislike films that are mere propoganda, no matter how stylishly done or how many star entertainers it may contain. I dislike films that use the military as a tool to exploit to spread a message. And yes, I am no fan of anti-American films.

Thus you can take this preview of Green Zone with a grain of salt or not. You may not see the elements that I believe are present and at the fore of the film. You may agree with these ideas, in part or whole, and like the package that has been made to present them.

I do not.

Paul Greengrass is an excellent director (Bourne Ultimatum), and Damon is a solid actor. This film will have action and superb war fight scenes. It looks to have a pace that is intense, writing that is on par or above most films these days. Even the plot will be logical, if biased.

But these trappings do not seperate the true reason this film exists. To spread a political philosophy that Hollywood Liberals espouse and have been trying to disseminate for years without success by any metric.

I do not recommend this film. I won't recommend it as a DVD either. I may be completely wrong, and I will be the first to stand up and state so if I am, but that is about as likely as Hollywood becoming Conservatives.

Ft. Hood - Maj. Hasan: 12 dead, 31 injured, no answers yet

I know that some of my readers may be wondering why I have not covered the news of the Ft. Hood shooting before now on VASS or Black Entertainment USA. The only reason I can give is that I was confused.

For hours there has been swirling reports, rumours, and imprecise information. Even at this late hour information is just being learned. So I will mention what is clear at this time.

There appears to be a single shooter. Early reports of multiple shooters seem to be incorrect. The main suspect is a Major Hasan, an American who has served in the military for 20 years. It is unclear exactly what role Maj. Hasan had, though he was a psychiatrist and may have been called to serve in Iraq/Afghanistan.

Maj. Hasan is believed to have killed 12 people, and wounded 31 others, mostly military personnel. Early reports of his suicide and/or death via shots from police are also incorrect. Additionally, a police officer initially believed to have been killed while shooting Maj. Hasan is in fact alive and out of surgery.

At this time no other names have been officially released, though Ft. Hood is no longer under lockdown.

Those are all facts, as is best understood at this time. But in no way do they answer the many questions that have plagued me and so many others all day.

I cannot fathom why an officer, especially of high rank, would strike out in such a manner. There is nothing that makes sense about this.

I have heard the rumours that Maj. Hasan was a sleeper agent. I do not agree. In 20 years of service Hasan would have had ample opportunity to act out before this. In addition, religious radicals tend to seek situations with the potential for far greater bodycounts than this. Plus the fact that being a military officer Hasan had the chance to potentially acquire far greater firepower to inflict higher casualties if he was simply a religious nut.

I have heard Maj. Hasan was suffering from PTSD. Again I refute that. He, to the best knowledge available now, has never served in combat. His duties seem to have kept him stateside his entire career. As a psychologist he heard stories from those that actually suffer PTSD, but that is not the same. Of all those I have known that have suffered PTSD not one has ever suffered this because of something they heard others experience.

Lastly, the other major cause has been rumoured to be discrimination and harrassment. Which I think is absurd. First because as a Major the number of people even capable of doing this are very few, and the repercussions of them doing so is extreme. Second, while I know there is some discrimination/prejudice in the military I can say firsthand that such is not on the level to cause this kind of outburst. I can understand a fistfight due to such a cause, but not a mass murder. In addition, the level of discrimination some may experience today is no where near the levels from back in the 40's, 50's, 60's and so on. And even then, with a national bias in place, such actions as those of Maj. Hasan never occured.

Seperate of all this I have heard Maj. Hasan called a "good American". This was meant to prevent blanket accusations and hate filled actions against Muslims. Which I can understand, but 2 things need to be clear.

1) The insane and terrible acts of any individual are NOT representative of a group of similar people. All Whites are not represented by the KKK or neo-Nazis. All African Americans are NOT Snoop Dogg. All Asians are not the Virginia Tech killer. And so on.

No Muslim should ever be judged by the acts of some other person, or a fanatical group. And no responsible American should ever act against someone due to such a false and bigoted reason.

2) There is no way anyone can be described as a "good American" at the same time they are the key suspect in a mass murder. I also have a problem with such a label being applied to a soldier, who volunteered to join the military, served 20 years, and who then balks at being stationed in or near a war zone (if that is accurate). They joined the military, with full understanding of its purpose, and took an oath that leaves no questions. If there were any disputes with the responsibility that goes with such service, they could have resigned and or gone to jail as a concientious objector. The murder of innocents is never something to be confused with or even mentioned along with the words American or U.S. military.

I am glad that Maj. Hasan is still alive. That means the questions we all have can be answered. If in fact he did do this, and acted alone or with others, I look forward to his death by firing squad. If there are others involved I believe they deserve the same fate.

But the biggest thing that I have in my mind right now is my fear that this is the Columbine of the military. I fear that far too many, merely seeking a quick way to earn money for college might follow this twisted path. I hope that Maj. Hasan can be used as an example of why such actions should never be undertaken.

As more becomes clear I will speak about it further at VASS

Colbert earns a salute in Iraq

I want to salute Stephen Colbert. I’m sure he expects it, of course, but this time it is deserved. Because of what he has done for our troops in Iraq.

By now everyone has had the chance to see the new Colbert haircut. And how he got it. Under orders by the Commander-and-Chief himself (that would be President Obama). Who also gave a nice bit of self-mockery with his line about not needing spy satellites with his big ears.

I’m more than happy to see the President mocked in good taste. But the fact that Colbert has brought a bit of home to our troops is a far better sight. It reminds me of what Bob Hope used to do. Something that the major news media seemed hell-bent on ignoring these days.

Stephen Colbert (the man and not the character) is a liberal without shame. So it’s no surprise how often, and accurately, he jabs Conservatives and Republicans in his show. But unlike the Sean Penn’s of the world, Colbert has always supported our troops. He has always made the distinction between serving our nation and the policy makers that require the sacrifices the troops make.

Thus in going to Iraq, he has acknowledged what the major news media has denied for years now. That our U.S. military is doing a good job in a bad situation. That our people are dying because of our system of Government and their belief that it is the best in the world. Faults and all.

You don’t have to agree with the war on terror (a term that our President can’t even bring himself to say). You don’t have to like why we got into this mess, or who gave the orders to do it. You don’t even have to agree with the people that think not talking about the situation, or placating governments in the region, will end the problems. But we all should recognize those that are doing the best they can, ultimately so we can all sleep back home without pause.

That deserves attention. It deserves commendation. It makes Stephen Colbert worthy of a salute.

The first 100 days of President Obama

** This post is political. It covers the first 100 days of President Obama. As such I believes it deserves to be discussed. Some thigs are too important to avoid. Thank you for bearing with me.**

So we have made it thru the first 100 days under President Obama. The nation is still called America. This is still a democracy. The public, and more importantly the major media, still love President Obama. But this is no longer the nation that I grew up in.

There have been many changes under the Obama Administration, some due to the President and other due to the Democrat-led Congress. All of the changes have been based in the goals of the far-left and selected campaign promises.

Let's start with the appointees. There are many critical Cabinet positions that have yet to be filled. Several have had a revolving door of nominees, leaving some of the most critical positions that effect the economy open. Worse yet, there has been an undeniable consistency that virtually every Democratic nominee has failed to pay taxes, in some cases for multiple years, until nominated. Which is troubling in a "Do as I say, not as I do" kind of way.

But beyond the appointees are other troubles.

President Obama has failed to live up to many of his campaign promises. The Guantanamo Bay Detention will be closed, eventually, though there is mass confusion on what to do with the detainees. Will some be imprisoned in American jails. If so at what higher cost than normal. If not in America then to where? So far only France has accepted exactly 1 detainee. So much for international support and their belief in President Obama.

President Obama has failed to increase transparency on 7 of 9 major laws since taking the Oval Office. This too was a campaign promise that was broken. The most notable case of this was the $787 billion stimulus bill. A stimulus package that does not spend all the money now, that limits the income level of those that can use it, that applies only to citizens that RECEIVE a paycheck, and is primarily a tool of social change.

There are numerous examples of millions being spent on projects like artwalks, skate parks, and non-existent homeless projects in cities without homeless problems. All of these are attributable to the stimulus package, and the fact that to this date almost none of the members of any level of the Government has read the full law. In fact almost no member of Congress or the White House read the entire bill before it was voted on and approved by Democrats. Nor did the public get a chance to read it before President Obama passed it into law. The reverberations of this are still being felt now.

Moving on, President Obama has enforced the ability to gain an abortion, even in later term pregnancies. Which is in line with his long-standing political beliefs, though not exactly the beliefs of the nation at large.

President Obama has approved the use of embryonic stem cells, another issue that flies in the face of overall public opinion.

President Obama allowed Congress to break the Constitution by retro-actively penalizing American citizens. This was in the form of specific and non-grandfathered taxes to the executives at AIG. These taxes were on bonuses that the executives received as part of their contract, that the Government did not renegotiate when they had the chance, and in fact guaranteed in the stimulus package that no one read. The Congressman that guaranteed the money? Senator Chris Dodd, a Democrat and in charge of the Banking Committee.

Also, while violating the Constitution - which President Obama taught at one point - the concepts of all contracts were broken. In violating the contracts that the Government itself assured, all contracts are theoretically void. Because if the Government can break one it can break them all.

Plus the Government asserted its ability to control private business. First in taxing the AIG executive, thus stating the Government can retro-actively dictate pay. Then in forcing the removal of the CEO of a major auto company, while demanding changes to the operations of that company along lines that only the Government desired.

All this before the Government requested the expansion of power to allow the Treasury Secretary, an un-elected position, the ability to take over any company that it deems is significant to the nation based on undefined criteria. Which if passes will allow the Government to theoretically take control of any and all companies it chooses to.

But President Obama has done more. He has ended the Iraq War, by removing troops (a campaign promise) in an extended timeframe with the exception of 50,000 troops (both violations of the same campaign promise).

President Obama has also proposed his new budget. This is separate of the $410 billion continuation bill that was passed, also funding 9,000 pork-barrel projects. It was passed the same day that President Obama made a public outcry to stop wasteful spending by the Government. And it violated a campaign promise to end pork-barrel spending.

But the $3.6 trillion dollar budget of President Obama does not include the continuation bill or the stimulus package. It does include some $600 billion for a nationalized healthcare plan, that does not exist today nor have any plans of how it might be implemented. And this budget, going by President Obama's own best case figures will reduce the budget by 50% in 4 years. This part has been highly publicized. What has not been publicized is the rest of the budget plan.

President Obama's budget goes on after year 4 for a total of 10 years. By the end of that time, according to the President himself, the deficit will have increased by 250%. Few in the major media discuss this outcome, nor question how any plan that creates a larger deficit than it starts with can be called positive or effective.

But like every Administration, there have been bumps in the road. Besides the appearance that no appointee in the Obama Cabinet pays their taxes, while demanding that citizens must do so in greater numbers, there have been other gaffes. Like the recent decision to fly a plane over New York City without notification of the Mayor or any public notification - creating a panic based on the 9/11 events. There has also been the bow that President Obama bestowed - which has been described as everything but what your eyes will see in the video. There is the publicly friendly, and privately harsh, discussion with Hugo Chavez. There was the embarrassing gifts to our strongest ally's leadership and monarchy.

Yes the Obama Administration has had a hit parade. And these are only the most public and notable points. There are many other quieter, even less publicized actions affecting law and governance, and the appearance of the nation.

Like the now unspoken manner in which North Korea essentially turned it's nose up to the U.S. and fired a rocket that in one move threatened our ally Japan, and our nation itself. This cemented the fact that America has less respect and instills less fear than ever before on the world stage. An idea confirmed as our Secretary of State, and President, issued apologies for the existence of America and our actions to continue to exist.

Yet on the domestic side of the table things are even more unstable. America now fights terrorists, and the ideal of terrorism, by giving it a new name. The idea must be that there cannot be a terrorist act if the Government cannot call anyone a terrorist. That is except of Americans themselves.

Yes, because the Government - in the guise of Napalitano - has sought to isolate those that disagree with the governance of the land. Those that hold ideologies separate of the Administration, that have vowed to defend this nation with their life, and/or those that believe a religion strongly have been placed at the top of the list of dangers to America. Quietly, and without public scrutiny. The Amish and bloggers like myself be warned.

This is but the briefest coverage of the first 100 days of the Obama Administration. Likely each point will be something ignored by the major media. Yet it is these things that define where America is truly going. And doing so with smiles. President Obama's approval rating is over 60%.

So though this has been used to describe President Bush, I think it more directly applies to the America that President Obama is shaping

"So this is how Democracy ends. With thunderous applause." - Princess Amidala in Star Wars Episode 3

But if the poll on my sites are correct, Democrats had best watch the clock carefully. Because their time in the sun may well be short. My poll results state that since the inauguration the total outlook by my readers that responded are

39% feel President Obama has kept his promises and is doing a great job
38% feel President Obama has BROKEN his promises and is doing a horrible job
16% feel they need more time to decide
13% feel President Obama is the same as any other President

My poll may be small, but I believe that my readers are some of the most informed, intelligent in the blogosphere (well overwhemingly most are minus the ones that shout profanities), and those from America are real representations of America. Thus I would state that this is the real view middle America holds.

So in summary, President Obama promised change. He never clarified what that meant or what he would change. After 100 days we now have an indication. It is a change indeed. Though none I know would have voted for this.

Thankfully we will have the mid-term elections soon, and might be able to reverse or hold off the worst of that change.

President Obama and 2009 - what do you think?

Did you vote for President Obama?

	Yes
	No
	I didn't vote

Do you think the economy will improve this year

	Yes
	No
	It will stay the same
	I don't understand the economy

Do you think the nation is safer under President Obama?

	Yes
	No
	I'm not sure
	Fanatics make the world unsafe
	I'm worried about global warming more

Do you think an 'Obama effect' will create more opportunities for people of color in television, movies, and other entertainment?

	Yes, definitely
	Yes, as long as he is in office
	No
	No, Hollywood is racist
	No, some things never change
	The idea of an 'Obma effect' is insulting

Do you think the United State will ever apologize for slavery?

	Yes, now that Obama is in office
	Yes
	Maybe in the future
	No
	Never
	Why should America apologize

How likely are Reparations to happen in the next decade?

	10% or less
	20 - 40%
	50%
	60 - 80%
	100%
	Never

Which do you think are important for America? (choose all that apply)

	Improved race relations
	Education improvements
	Path to citizenship for illegal aliens
	Improving the economy
	Ending genocide and helping the world poor (ie. Darfur, and others)
	Middle East peace
	Allowing gay marriage
	Stem cell research
	Creating green energy alternatives
	Preventing 'global warming'

Lastly, and purely for my curiosity, have you ever been to www.cafepress.com/nova68 (my online store)?

	Yes, I bought stuff there
	Yes, I check it occassionally
	Yes
	Not yet
	No
	No, I don't buy clothes online
	No, the models don't look like me
	No, I think it's only for Black people

Senator Obama on the O'Reilly Factor Part 1

Finally after about 9 months of waiting, if I remember correctly, Senator Obama has lived up to his word to appear on the Bill O’Reilly Fox News program, The O’Reilly Factor. There are going to be 4 parts to the interview, of which tonight was the first. And I must say that it was far too short. The rest of the interview will air from Monday thru Wednesday next week.

Bill O’Reilly was direct and confrontational, as he always is in interviews, but he was also the usual fair interviewer. The questions so far have been solidly based on what voters are most concerned about and included 4 out of 10 questions I expected him to be asked (including 2 that I am aware of for Tuesday).



Senator Obama answered the question on the Surge, finally admitting that it was a

“success beyond all expectations”

And there was the question about if America is involved in a war on terror where he again said yes. Further adding that our enemies include Al Quida, the Taliban and a network of other fanatical Muslims that have “perverted Islam”.

I am surprised by the answers as Senator Obama has been remiss to speak so directly on such issues. His prior stances on such aggressive actions by America have generally lead one to believe he is far more pacifist than his answers with O’Reilly revealed.

Now that is not to say that Senator Obama was on brand new territory with all the questions. He still maintains his latest view of Iran, that it is dangerous and a nuclear Iran is unacceptable. A far cry for his early descriptions of the nation. And I accept that how he would prepare for an Iran pursuing nuclear weapons could not be answered as since he potentially could be out next President and thus would be tipping his hand.

Though that raises an interesting question. If telling Iran about our plans is foreshadowing our actions, how is creating an exacting timetable not the same? If Iran could anticipate and counter our actions because we openly provided our plans, how can Al Quida or any other group not anticipate and react to a specific date of withdrawl – not unlike Saigon in the 1970’s?

Moving on, I’m also glad that O’Reilly admitted that history will likely prove that our initial action against Iraq was a bad idea. That Senator Obama, then unelected and unable to vote in the Senate, was correct to oppose the war. Though I continue to think that Democrats are far too fixated on that one event in the past, looking for people to blame without dealing with the pressing current issue at hand.

But in discussing Iraq, which I started with, I noticed something about Senator Obama I had not seen before. He refuses to admit he was wrong to any degree. He was adamant to point out how there are problems with the Surge, and that it has not accomplished everything it was supposed to. And that prior to the vote for the Surge (which he and Democratic VP Senator Biden voted against) he relied on the fact that President Bush’s strategies had been wrong.

Now given that he is absolutely correct, President Bush had run the war exceptionally badly, that does not change the fact that the Surge worked – as he admitted – and thus he and Biden were wrong in their vote. I have to wonder that if he cannot admit that, how is he different than how Democrats stated President Bush was intractable in his belief about pre-Surge Iraq? If one was bad, how is another not equally troubling?

Now another thing I noticed is the body language of both men. Bill O’Reilly was sitting in a very guarded position. And Senator Obama was sitting forward. As the conversation got headed, respectfully, Obama tapped O’Reilly several times.

I’m not an expert but I take that to mean that O’Reilly was on the offense. Senator Obama was intense, slightly uncomfortable and when he was touching O’Reilly he was trying to establish a sense of friendliness, deflection of argument, and asserting his strength of convictions. Both are not bad things and speak to the strong characters of both men.

Overall I have to say that the entire first part was far too short. I wanted to hear more. I’m anxious to see what else will be asked and how Senator Obama responds. I am especially interested in the Tuesday portion.

I do not feel that either man was disrespected. Both made intelligent arguments. And Senator Obama showed a determination that really has not appeared before.

Oh I mentioned Tuesday. That is when questions about Bill Ayers and Rev Wright will be asked. I previously stated I thought that this would be included in the questions asked. I was told that I was racist to hope for Obama to be asked these questions. We shall see if Senator shares that opinion, or my own.

Dave Winfield remembers what Major League Baseball and WWII movies forget

Today is the anniversary of D-Day. The invasion of Normandy. And the major media barely takes notice. I mean in an environment where ultra-liberals are screaming that America turn tail and run away from Iraq, and cities slap insult after insult on our military – refusing to allow recruiters to do their jobs and hiding our Armed Forces in the back doors of airports if they let them into the ports at all [look up San Fransisco or Marines at VASS]– how do we expect more?

But America is not just forgetting to remember the sacrifices of the old and current soldiers that ensure the freedoms we enjoy without a second thought. In our luxury of sitting in our homes and the only bomb blasts occurring on our HDTV screens, we forget that 2302 days have passed without a single terrorist attack in America. If anyone thinks this is not because of our brave men and women, and their sacrifices, they are in my opinion fools and willfully ignorant.

America loves to forget the things in our past that don’t match with what we want to think of today. Like past wars and the soldiers that fought them. Like the decades it took for the Tuskegee Airmen to get the recognition they deserved, or the fact that beyond Spike Lee’s upcoming film I cannot name another major (or minor) movie that recognizes that African Americans served in WWII. Then again you would be hard pressed to find Hollywood mentioning that Blacks have served in ever war or conflict America has ever had including the American Revolution.

Along those same lines of forgetting selected parts of our past, there is an example of someone that is remembering. Dave Winfeild, former NY Yankee, has not forgotten those that came before him and enabled him (and every other non-White pro team athlete) to enjoy being the pinnacle of American major league sports. Who has he remembered that was forgotten? The players of the Negro Leagues.

The original National Association of Base Ball Players, formed in 1867, banned black athletes. In 1920 the Negro National League was formed. It would be another 27 years before Jackie Robinson would break the barrier created 80 years prior. But Jackie Robinson was not a man in a vaccum, nor plucked from some street corner. He was one player among a league of hundreds, a number of which are believed to have been equal or superior to Robinson – each of them denied solely because of the color of their skin.

Today there are hundreds of players that are of virtually every race found on the Earth in American major league sports. Yet even the most avid fans in the nation’s preimer sport are hard pressed to name more than 2 players from the Negro Leagues – Jackie Robinson and Saitchel Paige. Such a shun and a desire to ignore the racist and ill-concieved past of the nation and baseball is maddening. And while it’s many years too late, Dave Winfeild has made sure something is done about it.

30 members of the Negro Leagues, people that I doubt most sports fans have ever heard of – because the history books and stadiums were closed to them – are to be recognized in a way that at least symbolically ensures their place in baseball history. These men will be drafted by the major teams prior to the MLB amateur draft. Emilio “Millito” Navarro, now 103 and the first Puerto Rican to play in the Negro Leagues, will be drafted by the New York Yankees.

In a country finally celebrating the potential of the first African American that may become the President of the United States, finally recognizing that African Americans fought and died as bravely in every war we ever fought, finally recognizing that Blacks have been as integral to the foundation and growth of this nation as any (and perhaps more) other group, I say that such recognition is beyond long overdue.

The major media may feel such events are cursory. They may feel that focusing on a fist bump by Senator Obama on the night he locked the Democratic Presidential nomination is more news worthy. But I will not allow my blog to miss these important facts. I remember those that came before me, I thank them. And I will share that acknowledgement. If nothing else, it’s the very least we can do.

Don’t you agree?

Not On Our Watch, Cheadle and Clooney, donate $500,000 - 3.13.2008.1

Unlike the major news media, or the Government of the U.S., I have spoken about Darfur and what is happening there. For years there has been little said about the genocide, and even less done in Congress. An example of that inaction is HR 180 IH.

But there are individuals that have done a great deal. One of the most notable and famous is entertainer Don Cheadle. Mr. Cheadle, along with George Clooney, producer Jerry Weintraub, entertainers Brad Pitt and Matt Damon created Not On Our Watch. Through this non-profit organization attention and aid has been given to Darfur and the 200,000 African that have been murdered and the 2.5 million men, women, and children that no longer have homes.

It is Not On Our Watch that again did something our nation seems incapable, or unwilling, to do. Today they gave $500,000 to the World Food Program (WFP) of the United Nations. The WFP has been providing food and support people in Darfur for years, in fact 70% of it’s aid goes to this area alone.

As much as half-a-million dollars is, it does not compare to the $77 million needed in 2008 alone.

Don Cheadle, George Clooney and the others in Not On Our Watch need to be commended on their actions and support to date. Congress, including Presidential candidates Senators Clinton, McCain and Obama, and President Bush need to be admonished for their failures to address this issue.

America has not take a stance against what is happening in Darfur. When Apartheid needed to be stopped, America stood up and refused to do business with the nation. We placed pressure on that government and helped to improve the lives of millions of South Africans including former political prisoner and now leader Nelson Mandela. [For those that weren’t alive in the 1980’s, Apartheid was the rule of the White minority in South Africa over the African majority. Think of it as a couple of steps above slavery and segregation on crack.]

If America as a government is unwilling to end the support of the Sudan, which Darfur is within, perhaps the people of America are willing to step up. Already the entertainers mentioned above have done so, and no one would consider entertainers political leaders. Yet they have done more to lead this cause than all of the politicians in America so far, in my opinion.

Darfur may be in Africa, and Africans are not as important to America as other parts of the world. That is apparently factual based on what our nation has done, or failed to do, over the last 5 years. But I see no difference in the lives of children in Darfur than in Iraq. If there can be such huge support for helping Iraq (whether through leaving the area or staying and winning the fight against Iran and terrorists) I cannot see how we cannot want to support those in Darfur.

If you agree with me, and Don Cheadle, George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon and so many other regular everyday Americans you have never heard of then please go to Not On Our Watch and make a donation. Today this organization sent $500,000 because of what they believe and the families and children they wish to help, and amount few of us have. But I have to believe that we normal Americans can afford $1 or $5.

I will even make it easier if you can’t afford that. Every dollar and cent donated to any of my blogs or sites, as recorded in my donation widget above, since the beginning of this year until my birthday on April 6th will be donated to this organization. In addition I will make a donation on that day beyond the funds collected.

So if you can only afford .50 cents, or $1.50, or even .05 cents, I will send it along with ever other donation I receive.

One person probably won’t be able to come up with $77 million or a solution. But all of us together can easily do so.

College students of color talk with Michael Vass - 2.28.2008.1

Do you know who Jeff Johnson is? Some may think of BET (Black Entertainment Television – no relation to this site) upon hearing the name. Others will have completely no idea whatsoever. To both I would say, you need to hear him in person.

On February 27th 2008 Jeff Johnson spoke at Ithaca College at Phillips Hall. This announced speech drew a mixed crowd of students that ranged from freshmen to seniors, male and female, and of all races. One commonality I noticed was the fact that they all were interested in becoming more involved in politics and active in issues important to them.

I had the chance, before Mr. Johnson spoke to talk with a few of these students. Initially I was speaking with 3 students, 2 guys and 1 woman with ages between 19 to almost 21. One of the most outspoken was Chinedum Nnodum, a 20 year old 1st generation son of Nigerian parents who grew up in the Bronx (not too far from where I grew up I later learned) and then in Connecticut.

Some of the questions I wanted to hear their opinions on are the same ones that are often spoken about at each Primary and Caucus that has occurred this year. When I asked how long they have all followed politics, and what interested them about this Presidential race I was told that they followed politics infrequently. That the big interest and draw was the fact that there was new blood in the candidates in the forms of Senator Clinton and Senator Obama.

When I asked if their preference was limited solely to Democrats and if so why I was told yes, partially because of the focus of the media and news feeds focused on them and the historic nature of their potential candidacy. Not to be left out was the fact that there is an ”emphasis on change.” Added to that was the fact that they felt the Democrats sounded more authentic in what they had to say.

Some of their concerns about this current Presidential race covered both political parties though. They all felt that there needs to be more of an emphasis on education. That this subject was being ignored due to the Iraq war and oil prices. For them it is a key issue, not only because it will affect the interest rates they will pay for their college loans but also – as one pointed out – what kind of opportunity will be provided to the younger brother of one of the students who is in middle school and will be coming to college as well soon.

They also felt that things were already changing, just by virtue of the fact that a woman and African American were potential nominees. Because of their involvement, and the fact that either way a minority potentially could be President, issues are being raised and addressed in a manner not seen before.

Considering the question about raising issues I then wanted to see how students in the Northeast, in college, felt about the emerging trend of school shootings like Virginia Tech and others. Their response was sober and immediate. The major media was not helping the situation.

“Tragedies do happen, but the timeframe seems to be promoted by media attention, making copycats.”

Because of the media attention, other disturbed individuals were gaining an impetus and validation for committing these heinous acts. It’s a view that I think has solid ground, and the major media should pay attention to. Suffice to say, it’s an issue that is prevalent in their minds, yet not preventing them from gaining the educations they have striven for.

Changing gears I wanted to ask about rap and hip hop, one of the issues Jeff Johnson was known for speaking about. In particular I wanted to know how they defined the difference between hip hop and rap. The answer was that the initial rap music, which I grew up listening to, was really hip hop. While there was a lot of entertainment in the initial songs, the overall theme of the industry also included culture and the people of the time.

Hip Hop today continues in that theme with artists like Gym Class Heroes (currently defined as an indie hip hop group). Their description of the band seemed like R.E.M. to me, back when they were just on college radio. They agreed in that groups like this have thought provoking songs like Cupids Chokehold which are not in the mainstream.

Modern day rap (which is what those in my age group would consider by the sub-genre title of gangsta rap) was simply about money. That artists like 50 cent was only in this for the money and had sold-out to get it. And that they felt this was reflected in the songs artists like this made.

While I spoke to just a small group of these students at the event, I can say that I was really pleased to learn of their interest in the future of America, their own educations, and the culture around them. They renewed my hope that, much to the chagrin of record company executives, many in the African American and minority communities are not buying into the images that are purported to represent them. And I have to believe that if even a small portion of students of color hold similar motivation and energy as the outspoken and determined Mr. Nnodum and the others I spoke with, the polispeak and much heralded change Presidential candidates are bandying about will be positive and real in the near term.

I would have asked further questions of these students in Ithaca College, but at that point, Jeff Johnson was about to be introduced. My thoughts on his speech will follow shortly.

Thank you and Merry Christmas - 12.24.2007.1

As the Holiday spirit descends on the billions across the planet I want to take a moment to recognize those not here. Whether it was entertainers and celebrities we lost like James Brown and Washington Redskin Sean Taylor. Or those brave souls in our Armed Forces that are in harm’s way every day, fighting and dying for us in places like Iraq, Afghanistan, and all the far corners of the Earth. Even those that find themselves incarcerated or those without homes. All of them and so many more have someone who loves and misses them, if not dozens.

Too often the world seems to speed by and too many seem to be forgotten. So for whomever it is you miss and whatever reason, I want to express my condolences, pride, thanks and love. I, among multitudes, have not forgotten.

I especially want to thank, remember, and give my heartfelt best wishes to those who are serving in our Marines, Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard. Without your sacrifices and efforts I know that I could not sit comfortably and write to the blogs I do. Thank you for the freedom you ensure for me and America.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Feliz Navidad, and may the New Year bring everyone peace, prosperity and joy.

Sincerely,

Michael Vass

Repost - Pros and Cons of Republican Presidential candidates

This is a repost that can be found at Vass

Not long ago I created a list of Pros and Cons of the leading Democratic Presidential candidates. To be fair and to see the differences I have complied a Pros and Con list for the leading major Republican candidates.

I do not presume that this list is all-encompassing. I recognize that while I have tried to be neutral, just as I was with the Democrats, I’m sure there are areas where my personal views entered. I do not claim my list is complete or how everyone feels. But I believe it is accurate.

Some issues may fall on both sides, because depending on personal views it is a positive or negative. Most are far more easily categorized. If you disagree, please make a comment and give your reasons why. You may be right, so why not share your thoughts?

You can see some of my source information at On The Issues and 2008 Election ProCon.

Now for the breakdowns (in alphabetical order):

Rudy Giuliani

Pros –


• 9/11
  
• For the Death Penalty
  
• Finish Iraq war
  
• No Nuke Iran
  
• Waterboarding (Torture ok)
  
• Mayor of largest U.S. City
  
• Lower taxes
  
  Cons –
  
  
• Mixed on Gun Control
  
• No International experience
  
• Flipped on gay marriage
  
• Mayor was highest level of public service experience
  
• Relies heavily on 9/11
  
• Flipped on Immigration policies
  
• Horrendous Civil Liberties (Amidou Diallo, Patrick Dorismond, ect)
  
• Sold out 42nd Street to corporations
  

Continued in Part 2...

Counting 5 years plus Part 2 - 9.10.2007.2

Continued from Counting 5 years plus Part 1 ...

But as for African Americans and Iraq. I have heard many say, this is not our war. That this is merely a war over oil, and something only the rich are concerned about. Some have said it’s a battle against other Black people and they will not support it. Yet I have never heard the media discuss this.

If this is a sentiment held by many African Americans then it needs to be addressed. Issues that separate America do not go away without being brought to the light and dealt with. The fact that only Dennis Kucinich is willing to support, and even speak about, reparations and or a national apology for Slavery should be example enough.

I will take a stab at this though. Iraq is not Bush’s war, its America’s. Al Queada attacked America. While some (Rosie O’Donnell) may not believe fire can melt steel, I and steel workers understand that it can thus when the Twin Towers were attacked it was an attack against me and you. Perhaps if more of the people questioning this fact were in NYC and had friends that were there they might realize this. Being Americans that are Black, which means they were attacking us too.

Across the world, African Americans are seen as Americans first, color second. That’s not a guess, it’s what I have lived. So when Al Quida says they want to destroy us, they mean everyone that does not believe their fanatical brand of Islam. So we are as involved in this war as anyone. Another thought to keep in mind. Many Africans do not see Black Americans as being the same as them. We are Americans, not Africans. Some may feel Al Quida is Black, but this is not a reciprocal thought. Moreso, they wish us dead not because of race, but because of religion. Even if they might agree on color (which the German men - arrested prior to attacking Americans in Germany – were white to my knowledge but were of the same fanatical faith) faith trumps all. So for those it applies to, don’t fool yourself that an agent of Al Queada would spare Harlem any more than Wall Street.

As for oil, I’ll grant it was probably one reason among many. Just as freeing slaves was one cause of the Civil War – though probably 5th on the list no matter how time has romanticized the facts and improved its importance. Is that a bad thing? No. America uses a lot of oil. There is no difference in race when it comes to electricity to run the lights, computers or gas for the cars. All Americans use oil, and more of it available is good for America, until we find a separate energy source. To claim that oil is of no benefit to any group in the nation is a lie. It may not be the best reason, but the reality is that it is a reason all the same.

So what will happen in the next 5 years? Will we still be fighting the Iraq War? Will Michael Vick be just getting out of jail, or returning to the NFL? Will R Kelly finally go to court and stand trial for his actions – and will the family of the girl that was raped still be working for him? Will Wesley Snipes have cleared his name and proven the government’s claims false? Will there finally be coverage of issues and events that African Americans find important, or just the spotty headline grabbing tidbits that fall far short of real journalism? Or will the major news media still be chasing and incised by OJ Simpson.

Counting 5 years plus - 9.10.2007.1

5 years and counting. What might that refer to? Could it be the Iraq war? It could also be the amount of time since R Kelly was supposed to go to trial for the alleged rape of a minor. It might be the amount of time that Michael Vick will be facing for his crimes.

Now hear is the tough question. Of those 3, which is the most prevalent in the media when discussing African Americans? The correct answer is OJ Simpson of course. But the second answer would be Michael Vick.

Whether it’s about how much time he will serve or if he will be allowed to re-enter football, it’s the main topic of discussion. I can’t imagine what might be worse.

Well that’s not true. The major news media could be focusing even more on the every move and comment made by OJ Simpson. Given that he has consistently given the major news media, actually tabloid fodder by definition yet covered as if it were major news, more than enough to discuss over the years. Still it’s a waste of time and space.

But where is the news on R Kelly? Why is there no seeming concern about his actions? There is a self-proclaimed pedophile being kicked out of Seattle and California (now living in Oregon at last report) yet an accused pedophile continues to go through his daily routine without a whisper of news on his case. Something is very wrong with that.

It’s similar to the news on Mr. Wesley Snipes. Huge announcements by the government on his indictment, while he is in a foreign country and cannot respond. Big media coverage, framed to look like a spontaneous move by law enforcement though it was an agreed upon surrender to law agents, and multiple legally neutral but implicitly accusatory statements were made then nothing. No word on his claims the charges are false. No word on his fight against, what I see as, trumped up charges. Nothing on the nature of the charges that sound as incredulous as the manner in which they were applied.

But when it comes to the war, the only commentary is what Senator Obama feels about how quickly we should end the war, and that we shouldn’t be there in the first place. Let me note something.

We shouldn’t have been in Iraq for the reasons we went there for. I was not convinced by the claims of WMD’s. There was no question that Saddam was a bad man, doing horrendous things to his people. There is no question that as far back as during the Presidency of Clinton, America was actively taking military action against that nation. Given that, it doesn’t matter.

Anger over why we started the war will not end it. Displeasure with President Bush will not alleviate the repercussions of the war. Pointing the finger of blame may make some feel better at night, but it does not factually improve anything and creates a means for some to gain political clout on the cheap by pandering to this emotional response. Why the war started has less to do with anything besides a stumping point for politicians.

Continued in part 2...

Interview with Mo Taylor, Radio DJ and more - 7.10.2007.2

Today I want to take the opportunity to introduce Mr. Mo "Reese" Taylor, Assistant Program Director of AM Stations at Citadel Binghamton. Mr. Taylor is an individual I have interviewed in my attempt to present not only entertainers, but those individuals that don’t make the headlines at TMZ.com or CNN. It is these people that make modern entertainment possible. Not only essential parts of entertainment, but I feel that these are individuals that have interesting and important insights that don’t get to be heard often enough.


Some may recall my interview with a veteran of the Iraq war, and Mr. RM Johnson. I will continue to seek out unique individuals, some famous others not, that have something to say. I hope you enjoy this interview and look forward to future interviews. If there is a person of note that you believe would be an interesting interviewee, please contact me at info@vassconsult.com .

Mo, if you can say, where is it that you work and what is your title?

Mo Taylor: Well, It’s funny that you ask that because I actually have a few places of employment. My main job is Assistant Program Director of AM Stations at Citadel Binghamton. I am also the Music Director for the Binghamton Senators Professional Hockey team, Pep Band Director at Binghamton University. In addition to that I work for a Mobile DJing company as well as having my own Mobile DJing company, finally yet foremost I am a freelance musician. All of my other jobs are what I do. Being a musician is who I am.

How did you get into working on radio?

Mo Taylor: It was kind of a natural progression from being a musician to wanting to entertain and play music. Aside from that, it was passed down from my older brothers (I am the youngest of 6 kids, 3 brothers 2 sisters).

In my neighborhood, my brothers were the only ones with a true DJ system (2 turntables, a tape player, microphone and mixer), so they were always asked to DJ parties for people. With that said, my brother (that is next to me in age, 5 years older) would have his setup in his bedroom and I would sneak in and goof around with it making tapes, just learning how to mix. He would get pissed at me and tell mom. I really think my mom saw something there that the rest of the family didn’t because, as much of a disciplinarian as she was, she always let my music flourish and grow. Sorry to make a short story long, throughout Junior High School and High School I became one of the most sought after party DJ’s in Binghamton [in New York State]. When I was a senior, a friend of mine told me that there was a community ran radio station was opening and that I should try out for it and then, after being my normal long winded self, as they say, the rest is history!

How long have you worked in broadcast radio?

Mo Taylor: I have been a radio DJ for 22 years, a professional musician for 23 years, and a mobile DJ for 28 years.

What would you say is the nature of your work? Could you describe some of it for those who are unfamiliar with this work?

Mo Taylor: I produce a talk show every morning. After the talk show, I basically assist in the day to day running of the station. It doesn’t sound like much, however there is so much that can go wrong with 2 talk stations. When you are dealing with hundreds of computers & satellites that must work together in different locations, a lot can happen. Basically I am a firefighter for the 2 AM stations.

LOL…Assistant Fire Chief “Mo”...LOLOLOL

What is the most constant comment that you hear from listeners?

Mo Taylor: In the talk radio format, the conversations (comments) deal with life in general. It deals with every aspect of your life. Your government, your home, how are you going to afford to fill up the gas tank in your car. How are you going to send your children to college? How are you going to just live life as a whole! That is what talk radio can do for you, regardless of what your political affiliation may be.

One of the biggest problems of my job, is to explain to the average listener how a music station is formatted. This has led to some heated discussions with some Black listeners. Most people can’t understand if they hear the latest song by Beyonce on a particular station, why can’t they hear the latest Jay Z or 50 Cent. Most don’t understand formatting and advertising or trying to understand and go after a particular demographic.

Since you work in radio, do you think that DJ's have a responsibility for the content they put on the air?

Mo Taylor: Well, first and foremost, DJ’s have to be true to themselves. With that said, yes, they do have a direct responsibility for their content. The funny thing about this business is when a broadcaster calls another person some kind of derogatory term, then the broadcaster acts surprised, then becomes defiant when they are called on the carpet about it.

What works for me is if my mother would get offended don’t say it!! Now, here’s the rub in that comment. My mother is not the old fashioned June Cleaver type mother. She is pretty progressive and has a great sense of humor. So that gauge in my DJing works for me!!

So Mo did you notice a change in the industry or your work since the Don Imus and Opie & Anthony events?

Mo Taylor: Yes I have Mike! The funny (peculiar) thing about Imus is that he and his producer Bernie have been doing this type of humor for many years and sometimes they tipped over edge between humor, good taste, and plain and simply offending someone or a group of people. The problem is that the women from Rutgers didn’t deserve to be the brunt of a joke a day after their championship game. When they had their press conference to talk about the Imus situation, they handled themselves with grace, eloquence and class. It made me proud to be Black.

This whole Imus and Opie & Anthony situation made the radio industry take notice just like when Janet had her ‘wardrobe malfunction’. It made it far too easy for people that want to shut people [in radio] up permanently, to do their bidding. I am not one that wants to censor anybody. However, personalities have to realize that people DO listen to what you say and that some might not agree with what you say or more importantly HOW you say it.

Also with that, advertisers also have the right to let their voice be heard. And it seems more and more these days, when the advertisers talk, they have the loudest voice in radio. For better or worse.

Have you noticed if record companies have any influence on what gets played?

Mo Taylor: Well not as much as they used to. Record companies used to be able to really wine and dine radio Station Managers to play their music. However, now there are federal laws in place that prohibit record companies from anything over just calling to promo their artists and songs. Also there are heavy fines that can be levied on broadcasters that take favors from record companies.


Mo, now that we know a bit about your work let’s find out about you. How much has your education affected your career?

Mo Taylor: Education unfortunately has been my only regret in life. I barely got out of high school. I have one year of college under my belt. I hated college and didn’t have the discipline or foresight to stick it out. What that has meant is that I couldn’t follow my true dream and be a music teacher. Radio and being a musician were my fall back plan and have been my career.

Have you had the chance to meet any personalities of note?

Mo Taylor: My family used to own a Karate School. I was an instructor in the school. I am also a certified security guard. In the summer, the radio station that I work for does a summer festival and I do the security for it. I have looked after Hulk Hogan and his daughter Brooke, Kimberly Locke, Constantine, the classic rock group Kansas, Lou Graham (from the group Foreigner), and Rupert (from the TV show “Survivor”) among others.

So do you have any funny/important stories you could share with us?

Mo Taylor: Funny…Yeah, a couple of years ago Aaron Carter was at a festival. Aaron was actually a security person’s nightmare. One minute he would be sitting down chilling, the next he would be in a full sprint to meet some fans. Yes, it was a security person’s nightmare, but it was refreshing to see someone that welcomed meeting and greeting his fans. Throughout the day he had been playing, punching and kicking at me [not seriously]. However, I just maintained my professional attitude.

Finally, I had enough! I squared off with him and got into a fighting position. He took a kick at me, I blocked the kick and charged him. (OK at this point, I will explain that I am 400+ pounds.) Aaron didn’t expect for someone my size to be that close, that quick. He turned around and started running in a full sprint. When he stopped he looked back and said “Holy S*&T you can move.”

As for an important story, a number of years ago Joe Frazier was training a boxer that had a bout in Binghamton. My brother and I did his security. Just to be around such greatness was a true honor!

So what kind of music did you grow up with?

Mo Taylor: OH MAN! I am so fortunate to my family for giving me access to ALL types of music. From Led Zepplin to Aretha Franklin my family had it. When I started off learning to play music, I got my appreciation for Show Tunes & Classical music. (I started off playing drums in 5th grade then I switched to trombone in 7th grade). However, R&B, Soul and Jazz was the main music around my house as I was growing up.

What then is your favorite music genre?

Mo Taylor: Classic Soul, Smooth R&B, Smooth Jazz, Jazz

What do you think of rap music?

Mo Taylor: Along with any style of music, there is some real good stuff out there along with some real crap.

How about gangsta rap? I make the distinction as it was originally a sub-genre of rap music.

Well, some of the music and beats are cool (the musician side of me shines through!). However, the message is not for me! Also, I am not one of those that thinks that it should be shut down and swept under the carpet. I think there should be a way to have a rating system to keep this music out of our youth’s hands and ears. But there will always be a problem with this because of the internet and people being able to burn songs and CD’s. This is where parents come in. The parents really need to guide their children as my mom and family did. They never once said to not listen to any style of music. But they would tell me that the message is wrong, and there are better, legal ways to achieve your goals in life. Also, they stressed that I would be a better person for achieving my goals the “Right” way!

What do you see as the biggest challenges for the next President?

Mo Taylor: As Americans in this day and age, we are more separated then ever. We are separated by race, financial class and by political affiliation. The next President has to find a way to get us back to how America’s attitude was after WWII or even after 9/11. Those 2 periods of time were when people looked after each other like they were family. As for the 9/11 period, look how many flags you saw on peoples cars. Fast forward to now, look how many of the same flags you have now. We as Americans have a problem of taking up a good cause then letting it go when it is not the “fad” or the “cause of choice”. So I think the biggest challenge for the next American President is to find a way to bond Americans.

What about the Nation?

Mo Taylor: Obviously the nations dependency on oil is one challenge. Primary public education is another. Health care and sky rocketing health insurance is another HUGE problem.

I think we (The US) are vulnerable to be attacked again. Not because of any security lapse or anything like that. We are vulnerable because our politicians and government can’t agree to disagree.

Also Mike, it is very tough for people (let alone politicians) to look at another person and say, “OK….this is how I feel about my life and politics. And I don’t agree with your political views. But I respect the choices that you make for your life and for your family.” People these days seem to think, well if you are not making a certain amount of money and you don’t have this amount of education, that you are useless as a person in our society.

And Black Americans?

Mo Taylor: Hmmm…I think that we need to get the Black family unit back to square one, with God being at the head of the family. I was raised in a single parent home. However, between my 3 brothers and very strong women (my Mother and 2 sisters) I still had a very strong family unit. I truly get tired when the media and/or society as a whole, says that unless the Black family has a mother and a father that you can’t succeed in life. Don’t get me wrong, I think the traditional family aspect is a beautiful thing. But don’t lump all kids with a single parent into some imaginary category labeled “Doomed From The Get-Go”!

How about entertainers? Do you think entertainers have a role model responsibility?

Mo Taylor: Absolutely! Sports figures and entertainers have more power and status than ever before. Like Charles Barkley said “I am not a role model.” However, you do have a responsibly to be a positive contributing member of society.

Growing up, did your family emphasize education?

Mo Taylor: Yes they did! I have a brother that is a pilot. He was an Academic All-American that also went to the Air Force Academy. I have another brother that has a Business Degree from Niagara University. So yes, they did stress and emphasize it.

But all I wanted to do was be a musician (from 5th grade on). So I didn’t hit the books as hard as I should have. Listen, I wouldn’t advise taking the same path that I did. Get that piece of paper at ALL COST! It puts you in a far better position to achieve your goals in life! My one brother used to call me “The Good Hustler” because I always needed to hustle to make a buck. But it was always on the up and up and 9 times out of 10 it had to deal with music. For instance, I once made a soundtrack for a body builder. After that I got calls from other body builders that wanted me to hook up their music.

What is more important for a good life in your opinion - economics or image?

Mo Taylor: That depends on what you mean by a good life. Image is something that you have obtained from your surroundings and upbringing. If your image is straight, your economics should follow!

How would you suggest someone get into work in radio?

Mo Taylor: Try to intern at any station. If you are around when something happens with the station and they need someone to fill in quickly, you might get your shot! Otherwise, listen to your favorite station or any station, really listen to the DJ! Listen how he (or she) introduces the music. Even more importantly, listen to how the broadcaster talks in and out of commercials. Always remember, people always remember the first thing and the last thing you say.

Have you ever seen/had race affect your career or life?

Mo Taylor: Truthfully I have never experienced racism in the format that I work in (talk radio). Because my bosses look at the bottom line. How am I doing my job? With that said, being a very large person I think that situations have passed me and some of my big friends, because of people in charge have narrow minds about people that are big. Discrimination of fat people is far worse and far out numbers racism.

Do you think the youth of today will experience racism?

Mo Taylor: Yes, there will always be people that will look at you differently because of your creed, color, religion or size as I stated above.

If so would you think it to be more or less than you experienced or are aware of?

Mo Taylor: It seems these days the racism gauntlet is laid squarely on what you are wearing (the baggy pants, .loud music, ect.) also that people don’t communicate anymore. So the answer to your question is about the same. The difference is that we don’t have the firehose or the dogs attacking us as they did just a generation ago. The racism is stealthy now than it was “back in the day”. But once again, education & communication are the keys to combat racism.

Do you feel that African Americans are held back today?

Mo Taylor: Yes, Somewhat.

What do you think it is holding them back?

Mo Taylor: Well, there have been advances made from a generation ago. However, until there are more minorities at top positions either in government or private sector, the playing field will not be level for us.

Do you think the media fairly portrays African Americans?

Mo Taylor: No. 9 out of 10 times that you see or hear a story about African Americans it is negative. For instance, on your blog page, you did the story about 23 year old Barrington Irving and his record setting flight around the world. There was very little media coverage on this. Ask yourself this, how come anytime a non-black guy in a balloon or a person in a yacht tries this feat you get minute by minute updates about it? You always are hearing about Blacks doing a murder or drug bust. Don’t get me wrong. Yes, these are news items that need to be covered. But there are positive things that Blacks are doing everyday. Let’s hear about those also!

What about how the media portrays minorities in general?

Mo Taylor: Yes, they are getting the same negative versus positives that Blacks are getting.

Mo, how important is education for children in your opinion?

Mo Taylor: Mike, education is the single most important issue that faces our children. I was very lucky to have made some good decisions in my life. However, one of the bad decisions that I made was to not continue my education. Being a Black man, if I would have obtained my degree I could have written my ticket to teach music.

Minorities are desperately needed in our education [system]. As I am still very active in our community schools, it seems that a lot of our non-minority teachers are a bit out of touch with the minority youth of today. With that said, I feel that some of our youth forget that school is not a fashion show, or a just a hangout to meet with your friends. If you put your time in school you will get your return back ten-fold on the other side. I see this now and wish that I could turn back time and get that college piece of paper.

Let me ask you a different question. Would you let children see music videos?

Mo Taylor: Well, some videos, like some music on radio are now what are called dayparted. What that means is, that some music or videos that are either too violent or overtly sexual they play later at night. So with that said they would be able to watch during the day. Though I would still keep and eye on the content. However, to watch videos at anytime? No, not until they are 14-16 depending on their maturity.

Jumping to another though, if you could change one thing in America today, what would it be?

Mo Taylor: As stated earlier, America is separated more then ever. I would like to find a way for people to get along!


And finally Mo, what message do you think kids need to hear more?

Mo Taylor: To quote Ossie Davis in the Spike Lee movie of the same name “Always Do The Right Thing!!”

I want to thank Mr. Taylor for this interview and his time. I hope that this will be a positive motivation for those considering working in broadcast radio, or other forms of entertainment. I equally wish that everyone was capable of enjoying and drawing some inspiration from these questions and comments.

Letter to Rudy Giuliani - 4.5.2007.1

This is an unaltered copy of a letter sent to Mr. Rudy Giuliani. Any response made will be posted, unaltered, when recieved.

To see other letters sent to Presidential candidates, visit M V Consulting, Inc.

April 5, 2007

Mr. Giuliani,

I am writing you in regard to your current attempt to gain the Republican nomination for the race for President of the United States in 2008. I am a native New Yorker and lived in the city during your time as Mayor of that city. I am also President of M V Consulting, Inc., a non-partisan corporation that has not contributed to any politician or political group, which maintains several internet businesses including blogs. I add that I have not contributed to any politician or party, nor have any of my sites advocated any individual or party in regard to the upcoming Presidential election.

I say all of this because I would like to ask you some questions on why you feel you should be President of the United States. It is my goal to post your response, as well as this letter, unaltered on my blogs for my readers to evaluate. I feel that the 2008 election is a critical point for the United States and its future. As such I believe it is important for as wide an audience of the public as possible to be informed in their voting choices. In addition I feel it important that I inform you that no changes to any response you provide will be made.

I add that I have already sent a similar letter to several other candidates of both parties. If you wish to review the letters that were sent previously, and where any response you make will be placed, please go to:

www.blackentertainmentblog.com
www.mvass.com
www.vassconsult.com/politics/election2008.html

I thank you in advance for your co-operation in answering these questions for my readers and myself.

For many Americans the first time you came to national attention was after the attacks of September 11. What many may not realize is that you started your political career as a Democrat. What led you to change your political affiliation? What changed in your political ideology that caused this move?

Many may not recall that in 1989 you ran for Mayor of New York City and lost to Mr. David Dinkins. What did you attribute to this loss and what did you learn from it?

During your time as Mayor of New York City you implemented several programs that had mixed results. One of those actions was the renovation of the West 42nd street area. Many native New Yorkers feel that the area was sold out to major corporations, in particular Disney, and the soul of the area was lost as well as multiple mom-and-pop business owners. To those detractors, what would you say were your reasons and what benefits were gained by the average New Yorker?

Another matter that was received in a mixed manner was your choice of police commissioner and the law enforcement policies during your term of office. During your time as Mayor, Mr. Amidou Diallo and Mr. Patrick Dorismond were murdered by police officers in a disturbing manner and Mr. Abner Louima was tortured by police officers which was then attempted to be covered up. These policies and your defense of the police department created a significant atmosphere of anger and cries of racism among the African American, Hispanic/Latino and other minority groups in the city; that was not covered significantly across the nation. For those African American and minority voters in the nation, what are your views on law enforcement? Where do you stand on Affirmative Action and other reforms that address racial inequality?

Considering the strong stance against organized crime and for law enforcement, as seen from your actions mentioned above and in your work as a U.S. Attorney, what stance do you believe America should take under your potential leadership towards countries such as Iran, and towards terrorist groups such as Al Quida?

Considering the record number of drop-outs that are African American, and the problems in education nationally in general, what efforts would you emphasize to improve the situation?

Of late there has been a great deal of discussion regarding a national healthcare program. Are you in favor of such a program and if so how would you fund this program? One of the arguments against such a program involves the question of whether the quality of healthcare could be maintained, and what motivation or incentive would pharmaceutical companies have to continue to research new medicines. What are your thoughts on this?

A current focus point of debate is the War in Iraq. Many Americans are upset about the status of the war, and others seek to retreat from this engagement entirely. Repercussions from any decision in this matter are probable to have ramifications for some time in the future of this nation. Where do you stand on this debate? What path do you intend to follow if you are elected? What do you see as potential outcomes of your proposed actions in the next 5 years?

It is well known that you are a cancer survivor. The health of the future President of the nation is a concern for many Americans. To that end I ask what your current health status is. In addition, I would never wish cancer on anyone, but if your cancer were to return and you had been elected President how do you believe you will react? Based on your experience initially, how do you feel this could affect you actions and responsibilities as President?

In recent media interviews you mentioned that your wife could be involved in non-policy meetings, if you are elected. Many may have heard this comment and the flurry of comments about it. Not as many may have heard your subsequent explanation on this matter. Could you explain that for my readers?

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 any alteration.

Sincerely,
Michael Vass

President - M V Consulting, Inc.
Author - Black Entertainment USA and Vass
vass@vassconsult.com
718-344-6921

Repost of Letter to Senator Obama - 1.22.2007.1

This is a repost of the letter sent to Senator Obama, found orginally at Vass. Any response from the Senator will be posted unaltered when received.

January 22, 2007
Dear Senator Obama,

I am contacting you today as part of an ongoing series of letters that I am sending to many of those that are planning to run for President of the United States. To date I have written letters to Senator Clinton, Mr. John Edwards, and Mr. Mitt Romney.

I am the author/writer of several blog sites including Black Entertainment USA (www.blackentertainmentblog.com). My letter to you, as well as any response from you will be posted on these sites without alteration.

Senator Obama I am aware that you are a junior Senator, having served 2 years at this time, representing Illinois. As I am from New York I am not familiar with the platforms you were elected for. What was the main issue that you campaigned on, and what progress have you made in attaining that? What laws have you helped to pass, or prevented from passing, that have directly benefited your constituents and African Americans in general?

As a fellow African American I’m sure you are aware that there are several issues that are of great impact to the Black community. One of the most important may be the issue of education. What have you done to improve the number of African Americans that finish high school and/or seek higher education? If you were to be elected President, what plan would you follow that will improve the education system in America?

In terms of your own education I ask a question that has recently been in the news. It has been stated that during the 4 years in Jakarta you had attended a Madrasa. I wonder if you feel this has any influence on the education you received, or more importantly do you believe that having lived and studied overseas provided you any benefit that your peers may not have had?

It has also been stated that you are a smoker. If this is true do you believe that has any effect on your views on healthcare? In addition how do you feel about the current trend to leave businesses without a choice and disallow smoking? Do you believe that the smoking ban is fair to businesses, and does it make sense to have a ban while also allowing adult citizens to purchase cigarettes?

As a lawyer that worked on civil rights issues, what do you believe you can do, or are doing currently, to improve the rights of African Americans and Latino/Hispanic Americans or any other people of color in this nation? What do you feel is the largest obstacle and what plan do you have to remove it?

In terms of national healthcare, do you agree with the push for a national healthcare system? If you do how would you have this program funded? What would you do to motivate institutions and individuals to seek out new innovations with the profit motive removed? How would you ensure that a national program would not function in the same manner most feel other government institutions do, such as the education system (which most feel is a failure)?

What role, if any, do you feel religion plays in the government? Do you believe that the fact you have never served in the Armed Forces would have any effect on your ability to perform as Commander-and-Chief?

Speaking of the Armed Forces, at this time there is a general feeling that the war in Iraq is going badly. President Bush has just announced a plan that would elevate the number of troops serving in Iraq. The democratic party is generally opposed to this plan. What exact alternative would you implement in place of this current plan, and what plan would you establish to ensure the safety of Americans if Iraq becomes more unstable (thus promoting terrorist attacks on America)?

Do you feel that the fact you have little experience in the Senate, or with dealing with international politics, is a hindrance to your ability to act as President and if not why?

Recently there has been a growing apprehension among some in the nation about the number of immigrant that are allowed into the nation for non-European nations (as per Rep. Goode). How do you feel about this? Also there is a strong debate on what to do about the large numbers of illegal immigrants. What plan do you have to deal with this issue?

I thank you for taking the time to read and to respond to this letter. As I stated earlier this will be posted on several sites, particularly Black Entertainment USA (at the address noted above).

Sincerely,

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