Tswizzle

It has been a very long time since I longed to be twelve years old, but last night at Madison Square Garden, I did.  My husband and I went to see Taylor Swift at the "new and improved" Madison Square Garden.  Hard for me to tell in the concert setting if it's better.  They made the common areas large so everybody can spend ridiculous amounts of money on food and merchandise.  The entry ways into the seats are narrow so pouring out of the Garden all at the same time is a bit dicey.  Back to being twelve.  We got to the Garden for an 8pm concert and, lo and behold, it began at 7pm.  We missed most of the opening act which was as loud and ear busting as ever.  We got to our seats and saw a sea of mostly young girls.  They were dressed up in fancy clothes, Taylor Swift t-shirts, Xmas lights blinking, signs lit up, and the excitement was palpable.  

At about 8:20, the huge red curtain began to move.  The shrieks and screams began.  The curtain pulled back and there she was...Taylor Swift.  Taking in each and every second.  Inhaling New York City.  Inhaling the screams. Inhaling the sea of people adoring her.  There are people that aren't sure if she is for real. There are people that think that she does the same looks of appreciation at every concert. I think she is one of those rare birds and she takes nothing for granted.  She loves her fans and shows her love.  She holds meet and greets before every concert.  (Such a Country music thing to do).  Astonishingly, she walks from the main stage through the crowds, touching as many people physically and spiritually as she can. She climbs upon a small little platform and takes in the new view and sings 3 songs.  In the middle of the third song, she makes her way back on the other side of the floor, reaching out, hugging, smiling until she retains her rightful place back on center stage.  

It is remarkable.  I have been to many concerts in my life.  I have never seen any performer soak in the experience so much and co-mingle with her fans. I am unabashedly an admirer.  I only wish I could have been like one of the many young girls who sang every lyric to every song.  It might be something to strive for for the next tour....

Super What?

 I consider myself a very pragmatic person.  I spent my career compromising and negotiating. I negotiated contracts for actors for over 20 years.  I understand all the ins and outs of making a deal.  Sometimes you are deliriously happy and proud, other times feeling screwed. The best deal is always the deal that both sides think they could've done better.  That's negotiating.  

The people in Congress have no clue.  They are obstructionists.  Everyone is supposed to compromise.  Everyone.  You give a little, I give a little.  We inch closer and closer until the deal is done.  The members of Congress, that signed Grover Norquist's no new taxes Pledge, must take full responsibility for destroying this country. In their twisted sense of what is right, they are unyielding, unbending, and unbearable. Their argument is if you raise taxes it will stymie economic growth.  How is that possible?  Could it be more stymied than it is already? Who is creating jobs?  Real jobs?  No one.  Congress will not pass a jobs bill because they won't increase revenue.  They have dug their heels in so deep, they have no wiggle room. 

I really don't understand the position.  If the point of not yielding is because they signed the Pledge, they all need to re-assess.  Look around.  What is better for most?  If members of Congress are worried about the Norquist backlash, then it's time to take back Congress.  It really always comes back to dollars.  Take the money out of politics, once and for all.  No lobbyists to run our government.  It is decimating our system.  If all politicians only worry about getting re-elected, the system is toast.   

The Super Committee is anything but super.  Dumb name from the start. Frozen, unyielding, unbearable. They were chosen to come to terms with the budget.  They have come up with nothing. Hours and hours of wasted time and posturing.  If you don't do the job that Americans sent you to DC to do, can we get our money back?  Let me in there and I will make big cuts in Congressional perks, pensions, health insurance, etc.  So the Super Committee began in September, they will stop in two days, no closer than two months ago.  

Sidebars:  I am seeing Taylor Swift tonight at MSG, finally. Everyone in my family has seen her live in concert.  I, unfortunately, got scammed buy a ticket seller a year ago.  Showed up with great tickets at MSG and they were counterfeit.  It was shattering.  Hopefully, tonight will replace that memory. 

If you're home, watch the Dancing With the Stars finale. 

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Marginally Enjoyable

The other day I thought, I'd treat myself to a movie during the day.  I had really wanted to see the movie, Margin Call.  My husband and Regis both liked it a lot.  Regis had said it really help to clarify the whole financial debacle.  Besides, it has a great cast.  So I got to the movie and there were ten people scattered throughout the theatre.  The previews began and the opening credits started.  Five minutes into the movie, two people arrived late with gigantic tubs of popcorn each.  I thought, "great, now I will have to hear them chomping during the whole movie."  If only.  These people talked, made weird noises, were disruptive. Another patron told them sternly to be quiet.  They didn't care. There were shhhhh's from others.  The male spoke back to the screen or tried to finish the sentence of an actor on the screen. Really???  

The movie experience has deteriorated so much, at least in New York City.  The theatres are not movie palaces anymore. The cost is ridiculous for seeing the movie and buying treats.  And now, every week when movies open on Friday, there is always a movie in 3D.  Really?  3D?  That means that the price of seeing a movie goes up at least 25%.  I don't want 3D movies.  Never did, but now it is becoming common place.  

Remember, for those older readers, when you went to the movies there were ushers?  The ushers walked up and down the aisles periodically to make sure that the patrons were acting correctly or not making out.  It made the movie experience more comfortable.  Now, if there is a problem while in the movie, you have to miss a chunk of the story to track down someone to do something.  We are paying more and getting far less for our dollars.  There is no security, no ushers, and no manners.  

If you arrive late, don't sit in the seat in front of me!  If you arrive late and don't get to see the little vignettes about how to act in the theatre, err on the side of quiet.  If you arrive late, don't come in with a lot of noisy shopping bags.  The people that are there, paid their money, planned their time, didn't miss the beginning of the movie, and deserve courteous behavior.  Do not speak aloud ever unless a crime is occurring.  

As far as the movie even with all the distractions, I really liked Margin Call. Found it fascinating and it has stayed with me.  When I got home and talked to my sister, she hated it.  Had to laugh. The complete opposite spectrum.  I do recommend it. 

Sidebars: The X Factor had rock and roll night.  The singers were supposed to pick songs from the incredibly large annals of rock music.  Only 3 out of 9 hit it.  I would have thought that it would have been a piece of cake to pick a song, but clearly, the contestants and judges had a myriad of opinions of what denotes a rock song.  Big demonstrations for Occupy Wall Street today.  The producers of the thought provoking movie, Race to Nowhere, are taking the next step. They want parents, students, and teachers to sign a pledge for no homework on weekends and vacations.  I am all for that.  If you haven't seen this movie go to Racetonowhere.org and see where it is screening near you.  

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A is for Alabama

Okay, people, I have been alive for 52 years.  I grew up in the great State of California.  I grew up hearing about political unrest, be-ins, love-ins, migrant farmworkers, Cesar Chavez, women's lib, Gloria Steinman, and human rights.  What I learned from those many years, clearly, the Governor of Alabama didn't. 

Governor Bentley signed into law the most severe immigration law in the country.  The Federal government is suing Alabama just like the other States that are making it a State issue over Federal, but I digress.  All the farmworkers from Mexico fled in fear of being picked up by the police.  Can anyone guess what is happening to the farmers in Bama?  Any guesses, people? You got it.  The fruits and vegetables are rotting.  

Why can't lawmakers understand that the problem isn't simple? There are many layers, but the fallacy that has been used all these years...illegal immigrants are taking the jobs away from the citizens of the USA. That is the biggest bunch of bull that has been handed down for decades.  Illegal immigrants are not executives at Apple or Alabama University.  They are working in the fields for fourteen hour days, they are taking care of your children, your lawns.  Seriously, if Governor Bentley's supposition was correct, the farmers would have lines and lines of out of work Americans lined up to work in the fields.  Ha! Americans don't want to do that kind of back breaking grueling work for peanuts! It's been proven time and time again.

Now, I know that there are serious issues regarding the stress illegal immigrants put on school systems, hospitals, etc., but a sweeping ban on illegals will not work. The Mexican immigrants that cross into this country are willing to do the seriously hard labor that the fine citizens of this country will not do.  There has to be a better way.  Just wait until the produce prices go up at the market.  Do you want to hear that outcry?

Sidebars:  Justin Bieber's pregnant accuser drops her suit.  He is now suing her.  Perfect!  Maksam and Hope Solo tossed from Dancing With the Stars.  And finally, I want to correct myself on the Sandusky interview.  I watched it in its entirety and from a psychological standpoint, it was fascinating. Bob Costas did a great interview.  Albeit, one of the creepiest interviews I have ever seen or heard. Thrilled to see that the Gabby Giffords interview opposite the Sandusky interview crushed them in the ratings.  A ray of hope for this country. I'll take it.

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Broadway Nightmare

One of my worst nightmares is about to premiere on Broadway.  Tomorrow, November 16th, Mandy Patinkin and Patti LuPone are starting their limited engagement concert on Broadway.  I can't think of anything worse.  I may be in the minority here; so be it.

I was a huge fan of Mandy Patinkin years and years ago.  He had a beautiful voice.  On the concept album of South Pacific with Kiri Te Kanawa, he sang the role of Lt. Cable.  When he sang Younger Than Springtime, it was like honey oozing all over me.  Then, horrors of all horrors, The Public Theatre did a musical called The Knife starring Mandy Patinkin.  It was a musical about a sex change operation.  Cutting edge.  Mr Patinkin found his falsetto.  From that show on, he never sang low again. As far as his acting goes, I love him.  I think that he is a compelling actor. Just don't sing.  Okay, no one is making me see my nightmare show, but just knowing it's out there....

Patti LuPone singing is like nails on a chalkboard.  Her vibrato and loosy goosy jaw can send me screaming into the night.  And yet, again, I think she is a wonderful actress.  Every time I have seen her, sans singing, I have enjoyed her work.  Together?  Oy, I can't think of anything more painful.  They are doing 63 performances together.  That is 63 performances too many for me. 

Sidebars:  Jerry Sandusky interviewed by Bob Costas.  Did anyone think that he'd admit anything?  A waste of airtime.  Creepy factor very high. 

If you want money out of politics, don't forget to go to getmoneyout.com and sign the petition.  

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Party, party, party

Party over country.  I don't get that philosophy.  I have said it before and I will say it again.  I know some very educated and smart Republicans.  What I don't understand is supporting a "less than" candidate.  I know friends that will vote Republican over voting for Barack Obama no matter what.  That is hard for me to swallow.  The candidates on the Republican side are less than stellar.  They may be nice people in their private lives but in their public lives facts and integrity are a slippery slope. 

In my voting life, I have never felt that both candidates for President were worthy.  I understand that the Presidential election of Nixon and Kennedy was the last set of worthy adversaries.  Both smart, experienced, and educated.  Since then, not so much.  I often feel like it is the lesser of two "evils." Now in the 21st Century it is evolving into who is smarter, knows history, isn't deluded by religiosity.  What kind of election is that? 

Why is it acceptable to support candidates that don't have knowledge?  Why is it acceptable to support candidates that are hypocrites. Why is it acceptable to support candidates on private, religious views and not facts?  The Republican party has changed so much to my dismay.  I think many prominent Republicans, like Carl Rove, think things are going too far.  To lead this country, the candidate needs to support the majority of the people's views.  Politicians have cut themselves off so much. They only want to be confronted by like minded people.  I think that began with George W.  The people in his crowds were always "his" people.  They didn't want any opposing speech during his rallies.  I don't recall that ever happening so blatantly.  That makes the candidates and the President sheltered and removed from all Americans. 

Why don't the smart, educated conservatives demand more from their candidates?  If Republicans would take the Jesus out of politics, they would be more palatable.  As long as Republican candidates want to shout loudly about social issues and not National issues, they are less than and not moving forward or for that matter, living in the present.

Sidebars:  The Duggars announced last week that they are having their 20th child.  Hard to explain why that is so yucky. 

An addendum to my thoughts and feelings on Regis Philbin, I didn't realize that they pushed him off his throne.  It all came to light for me this past weekend.  Those executives at ABC are ruining daytime television.  Wonder how big their bonuses are....

The King

Oh, my goodness.  I never imagined that in the years 2011 that I would say goodbye to All My Children, and now...Regis.  I have watched Regis Philbin since I went to UCLA.  He had the local morning talk show on KABC with Cyndy Garvey.  I loved him right away.  Funny, charming, and curmudgeonly.  He was the first person that I saw to interview on the "red carpet" at the Academy Awards.  It was the perfect pre-party in those days.  It was local and not the current over the top extravaganzas.  I moved to NY in 1981 and had to say "goodbye" to Regis.  

How could I have ever imagined that Regis would follow me to NYC.  He started another local talk show here on WABC.  My mornings were revived.  I was so happy and felt like home was complete.  Horrors upon horrors, Cyndy left.  What would happen to the chemistry now?  Ann Abernathy came in.  A Southern woman who became an ample foil for Regis.  When she got married and moved away, more auditions were held for Regis' co-host.  Auditioning was Kathie Lee Johnson (now Gifford) whom I always was irritated by on Good Morning America, but when she sat down next to Regis...magic.  They were a perfect match.  Funny, irreverent, self-deprecating. After fifteen years and probably  one year too long, Kathie Lee left to seek new horizons. Enter Kelly Ripa, darling, funny and personable, star from All My Children.  Eleven years later....

Regis is leaving his morning talk show.  The one he created, originated, and inspired countless copy cats.  Regis is one of a kind.  Born and raised in the Bronx.  Fit seamlessly into life in Hollywood and returned to his roots in New York almost thirty years ago.  He has represented New York well.  He has shared thousands of stories and relayed them in his own inimitable fashion.  Regis Philbin is of the old school but kept evolving into an iconic television star.  There will never be another like him.  I don't think that there will ever be someone else that spent their lives in front of the cameras.  In today's market, it's too difficult.  He is the hope diamond.  He will not be replaced.  I am sorry that in all these years in New York together we never got to have lunch.  I don't know where this chapter of his life will take him.  I am guessing back to Los Angeles to be near his children and grandchildren.  Always a die hard Yankee fan and New Yorker.  Regis, you will be sorely missed.  I never ever thought this day would come.  I really didn't.  Your gain is our loss.  The New York landscape won't be the same. 

Regis, I love you!

Sidebars:  If you have never taken the time to watch Regis, it isn't too late. Next week is his last week.  Friday, 11/18/11 is his last day.  Hope that Kelly Ripa who just signed a 5 year extension can thrive.  Good luck, Kelly!  

Happy weekend!  Happy Veteran's Day!  It's 11/11/11.

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