The Revolution Has Been Televised

Barack Obama made history on November 4 by becoming the first Black man elected President of the United States. This moment was a lifetime in the making for those who lived through the civil rights movement ... and while his maternal grandmother didn't get to witness this special occasion -- she passed away on November 2 -- millions of voters did their part to create this extraordinary event.
Groups who were ignored or taken for granted in previous presidential races -- especially women and first-time voters -- found themselves being courted by Democrats, Republicans, and other political parties this time around. Obama's ability to mobilize support among grassroots organizations was instrumental in his victory over John McCain, along with his Internet savvy in soliciting donations. While Obama's ethnicity was cause for concern during the primary season (Is he "Black enough" or is he "too Black"?), it was his position on issues like the economy and the war in Iraq that made him a better candidate to lead the country for the next four (and possibly eight) years.
Participating in the political process took me less than five minutes, while others waited more than three hours to cast their ballots in this election. That's because turnout across the nation varied according to where one was registered to vote and when they visited their polling stations. (It didn't help that there isn't a uniform standard for voting, whether it's using touch-screen devices or mechanical-lever machines.) Carrying out my civic duty on Election Day filled me with a sense of pride I haven't felt since I graduated from college, and hearing newscasters call the race for Obama felt better than winning the lottery.
In some ways, I feel sorry for Obama because his legacy is going to be defined by his effectiveness in cleaning up President Bush's mess ... but I also feel he's best suited to take on this challenge. My role in Obama's rise to power may be small, but it's democracy at work.

After the Dance

Celebrities with varying degrees of fame have appeared on Dancing With the Stars through the years. Some of them see it as an opportunity to reach a new audience, while others use it as a vehicle to prolong their 15 minutes of fame. Whatever the case, the show is starting to lose its appeal with gimmicks like adding filler segments -- along with more contestants.
Change may be good, but bigger isn't always better. For every smart move, like having a junior dancers' competition on the results show, there are too many dumb ideas, like interviewing "experts" about motivation tactics. Another source of bafflement is the continued presence of Samantha Harris as co-host. She's probably a nice person, but she comes across as a piece of eye candy whose sole purpose is to take up space. This sentiment can also be applied to the executives' decision to expand the roster to 13 celebrities. (Jeffrey Ross is good for laughs, but not for dancing!)
Maurice Greene and Susan Lucci are pretenders to the ballroom throne. He's too inconsistent to advance to the finals, and she's stiffer than cardboard. It's ironic to see them possess such qualities, for one's a former Olympian and the other is legendary for her screen presence. But, if nothing else, they took the contest seriously -- which is more than I can say for Cloris Leachman. (She made history as the show's oldest contestant and entertained the audience with her bawdy sense of humor, but I wasn't sorry to see her exit the stage on October 28.)
Brooke Burke is the breakout star of this season, with the former model mastering routines like the quickstep and the samba. Her dancing talent can't be denied, and most television critics have already declared her this season's winner ... but I don't want a repeat of season six, when Kristi Yamaguchi won the mirror ball trophy in dominating fashion.
The remaining contestants are Lance Bass, Cody Linley, and Warren Sapp. Bass has injected a modern twist into classic dances like the tango, which hasn't always sat well with the judges. Speaking of the judges, they may be overlooking Linley because of his youth. But the biggest threat -- no pun intended -- in the game is Sapp, for he's turned in steady performances each week. (His take on the paso doble was amazing!) It's not farfetched to imagine any of these men competing in the finals ... but, with athletes winning it all for the past four seasons, I predict the retired NFL star will be hoisting the title on November 25.

Sarah, Just Plain Awful

Since stepping onto the national stage on August 29 as John McCain's running mate in the presidential election, Sarah Palin has described herself as "a pit bull with lipstick." After her performance against Joseph Biden on October 2 during the vice presidential debate, she should be put to sleep.
The problem with Palin isn't that she's a Republican, a working mother, or even a woman -- it's that she's not qualified for the office she seeks to occupy. She comes across as a deer in headlights in interviews, whether she's taking questions from Charles Gibson or Katie Couric. Listening to her incoherent views on national security and foreign policy were cringe-inducing, and watching her give variations of the same answer to different questions posed by Gwen Ifill was unintentional comedy at its finest.
Given that Republicans control the executive and judicial branches of government, and wield influence in the legislative branch, their complaints about how business is done in Washington, D.C., reek of hypocrisy -- especially since McCain and Palin have flip-flopped on issues of importance to their constituents (and the United States as a whole). McCain was a longtime advocate for deregulation until the economy found itself in a tailspin; now he's a proponent of monitoring Wall Street. As for Palin, she initially favored building the "Bridge to Nowhere" before proclaiming opposition to it.
I believe America is ready for a female president, but I also feel that Palin doesn't belong in such close proximity to a powerful position. The future Madame President should be her own woman, not a puppet for someone else's agenda. She should also have a plan for helping the country get back on its feet, not just recite talking points. But, perhaps most important, she should be open to learning new things ... and not be so blinded by ambition until she can't see her own shortcomings. (This character trait was Hillary Rodham Clinton's downfall during her campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination.)
McCain thought he was helping Palin by shielding her from the media ... but that strategy backfired, for it exposed her as a pit bull that's all bark and no bite. If man's best friend is a dog, McCain is a pitiful excuse for an owner because choosing Palin as his running mate was nothing short of "animal cruelty."

The Downward Spiral

The rejection of President Bush's $700 billion proposal to bail out the financial sector by lawmakers and citizens on September 29 led to a 778-point tumble of the Dow -- the largest drop in its history -- and a 200-point dive on the Nasdaq. This isn't how Wall Street executives envisioned its third quarter drawing to a close as more than $1 trillion vanished from the United States economy.
I have many reservations about the government stepping in to rescue investment banks from their own incompetence, but Congress can't just sit on its hands and do nothing. The lack of reassurance that this economic crisis won't happen again is a major cause for concern, along with officials' inability to explain where the money is going to come from. (Taxpayers are already footing the bill for the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, among other things.) It may be convenient to blame greedy corporate titans for this fiasco, but they have plenty of company -- starting with the people who didn't know how to live within their means.
Adhering to a budget is the difference between having a surplus and drowning in debt. One doesn't have to be a genius to know that living the high life on credit cards and loans, with insufficient means to pay the bills, is asking for trouble. (Then again, millions of people abandoned their common sense by purchasing homes and cars without saving for the rainy days that lurked around the corner.) Managing one's money is a skill that will never go out of style ... and, if anything good can come out of this situation, it's a greater need for financial literacy.
Life is full of ups and downs, and Wall Street is no exception. If the stock market can rebound from the Great Depression, it'll get through this. Now isn't the time to panic -- it's an opportunity to gauge one's tolerance for risk vs. reward in an unstable economy. Whatever path is chosen, just remember that patience is a virtue.

The Musical Maverick

A shaky economy and evolving technology have sent many professions into a tailspin. In the music industry, adaptation is what separates those who survive from those who perish. Charlie Hunter has used this skill to remain one step ahead of the curve and achieve success on his own terms.
Since the early 1990s, Hunter has earned critical acclaim for his dexterity on the eight-string guitar, a custom-made instrument that combined five guitar strings with three bass strings. (He switched to playing a seven-string guitar in 2006.) But what really makes him stand out is he's a thinking person's musician -- one who pushes the envelope in terms of what a guitar can do and collaborates with others to challenge the traditional boundaries of music. While artists with substance can be found in any genre, his lack of interest in mainstream approval strikes a chord -- no pun intended -- with sophisticated fans.
In a conversation before taking the stage at Drom in New York on August 20, Hunter revealed that it's getting harder for him to find an audience for his jazz-influenced sound. I found this observation to be ironic, since his recordings pale in comparison to his concerts. (Full disclosure: I first met him in 2001.) During his performance with keyboardist Erik Deutsch and drummer Tony Mason, they used their 90-minute set to play material from his upcoming album, Baboon Strength, along with tracks like "Drop a Dime" and even cover songs like The Roots' "The Seed 2.0."
The lounge's intimate setting allowed listeners to be transported into another world, whether they were sitting at a table or the bar. (I even got away with disregarding the venue's two-drink minimum policy.) On a personal level, I find Hunter's music appealing because it puts me in an introspective mood. As a writer, I can identify with the creative process that goes into pairing notes and melodies, constantly revising one's effort to compose a work that will stand the test of time. (Some of his songs are just as pleasing to the ears now as they were when I first discovered him in 2000.) Crafting quality music on a consistent basis is his hallmark; unfortunately, true musicians like him are becoming an endangered species.
Hunter's four-week residency at Drom ended on August 27, but he's far from done when it comes to performing. Here's a round of applause for music's most underappreciated road warrior.

Three Cheers for Beijing

Sports junkies usually get their fix on the weekends, when athletes take to the baseball field or tennis court or golf course or ... you get the idea. But, thanks to the 2008 Olympics, one could watch events ranging from soccer to badminton and take their minds off the turbulent economy and heated presidential election.
Michael Phelps' dominance in the swimming pool allowed me to focus on something other than my unemployment status, and seeing the "Redeem Team" defeat Spain for the title of world's best men's basketball team gave me hope that I'll rebound from this professional setback. As for Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh, watching the beach volleyball duo successfully defend their gold medal victory from the 2004 Olympics was full of drama -- without a whiff of scandal. It was refreshing to see these athletes not only set the standard for excellence in their respective sports, but raise the bar to new levels.
This summer showcase represented the best of sportsmanship and goodwill. Athletes from dozens of nations competed in hundreds of disciplines to find out how good they really are and serve as cultural ambassadors. Viewers drew inspiration from the physical and mental toughness on display before a global audience, and one couldn't help but respect the hard work and huge sacrifice that went into pursuing a gold (or silver or bronze) medal. Regardless of the outcome, being part of an experience that most people can only dream about is a privilege.
In the end, the United States topped the overall medal count ... but other nations seized the opportunity to flex their muscles. China was a thorn in America's side when it came to gymnastics and diving, and Jamaica blew away the competition in several track and field races. These countries don't always see eye-to-eye when it comes to geopolitical matters, but they put aside their differences in the name of pursuing athletic glory.
16 days of riveting performances was a lot to digest -- even for a sports junkie. And while the accomplishments of the aforementioned stars didn't stabilize the economy or lead to world peace, they did whet my appetite for the 2012 Olympics. Let the games begin!

Flying High Again

After a disastrous performance on May 31 at the PNC Bank Arts Center, Stone Temple Pilots (hereafter referred to as STP) redeemed themselves on August 6 at the Nikon at Jones Beach Theater.
The alternative rock band -- consisting of singer Scott Weiland, guitarist Dean DeLeo, bassist Robert DeLeo, and drummer Eric Kretz -- set out to recapture their glory days around three months ago after going their separate ways in 2002. During the 1990s, their songs dominated the airwaves along with acts like Soundgarden and Smashing Pumpkins. These groups crafted songs that were an alternative -- hence, the label -- to the hair metal and bubble gum music that populated the Top 40 landscape.
I was lucky enough to see STP live in 1996, when they played a concert at Madison Square Garden, as well as four years later, when they played a show at Jones Beach. Good fortune came my way again in 2007, when I met the Brothers DeLeo while they were promoting their Army of Anyone album at the Bowery Ballroom. (Read about it here and here.) I arrived at Jones Beach around 5:30 p.m. with the hope of extending my luck and meeting the band as a whole. While that didn't happen, I managed to find even greater pleasure in not going home empty-handed.
Mother Nature blessed the day with beautiful weather, and I passed the time by chatting with a few STP fans and entering a trivia contest sponsored by Q104.3. An employee asked questions about the band as well as the classic rock radio station, and I won a DVD chronicling The Jimi Hendrix Experience: Live at Monterey for correctly guessing which disc jockey hosts a morning program about the Beatles. My winning streak continued once I entered the venue, where I stopped by the Citibank table and scored a $10 gift certificate from Borders.
Even though I was happy to acquire these items, a voucher for tour merchandise would've been more useful. The t-shirts were expensive (as much as I liked the "Uncle Sam" top, it wasn't worth $45) and the food was overpriced (I still can't believe I paid $8 for a slice of Papa John's pizza and $4 for a cup of Mountain Dew soda) ... but when I thought about the cost of my ticket, I shrugged it off as the price of reliving my late teens and early twenties in a bad economy.
When STP took the stage at 9:25 p.m., they kicked things off with "Big Empty." (Purple is my favorite album.) For the next 100 minutes, the band churned out hits like "Sour Girl" and "Plush" (Scott even had the audience sing the chorus). The band also threw in a few surprises, such as playing underappreciated gems like "Coma" and having the crowd serenade Robert's son, Duke, with "Happy Birthday" (he turned three years old). Other highlights included their cover of "Redemption Song" -- perhaps a not-so-sly reference to the PNC fiasco -- and a stirring rendition of "Lady Picture Show."
Watching STP work their magic on a warm summer night was nothing short of amazing. The best part about the concert was it hinted at greater things to come if Scott remains drug-free. Such an achievement would be music to my ears.

Who Is a Nigger?

There are many ways to address a friend: Hello. Hey! Wassup? But, in the Black community, another word has joined the lexicon of greetings: nigger.
According to Webster's Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary, a nigger is a member of any dark-skinned race or socially disadvantaged class of persons. This label of degradation is rooted in slavery, when European settlers used it toward Blacks. It was one of many psychological tools used to make Blacks feel inferior, and the verbal and physical abuse led to families being torn apart. And because Blacks were considered less than human even after slavery was abolished (thanks to Jim Crow laws), their suffering was seen as par for the course.
In recent years, some Blacks have rechristened the racial epithet as "nigga". They say they're empowering themselves by redefining the word as a term of endearment ... but by embracing such terminology, Blacks aren't just disrespecting themselves -- they're also encouraging other groups to look down on them.
Jews, Latinos, and Native Americans have also experienced the horrors of oppression ... but they don't use it as an excuse to denigrate themselves. They don’t call each other kikes, spics, and redskins -- despite dealing with genocide (the Holocaust), human smuggling, and forced relocation (the Trail of Tears). Meanwhile, Blacks have internalized the prejudice inflicted upon them ... and this behavior is best exemplified by Nas, whose latest CD is Untitled (unofficially known as Nigger).
Released on July 15, this derogatory word is a bold idea for a concept album because its execution is so tricky. (Full disclosure: I haven't purchased nor listened to it in its entirety.) Nas is well-versed in Black history, as demonstrated on songs like "I Can," and he's displayed lyrical prowess on tracks like "The World Is Yours" ... but the rapper's past achievements didn't help him this time around, for the CD received mixed reviews from fans and critics alike. This goes to show that America may not be as comfortable in confronting this dark chapter of its past as some people would like to believe.
If Blacks can't agree on when -- or how -- to use an ugly word that's part of our history, we're in no position to combat bigger problems such as poverty. While censorship isn't the way to go, we need to stop perpetuating the notion that we're not worthy of respect from our fellow human beings. After all, there’s nothing endearing about being held in low regard.

Every Picture Tells a Story

Those who don't know their history are doomed to repeat it. This proverb was lost on The New Yorker when they published a drawing of Barack and Michelle Obama on the cover of its July 21 issue.
Nearly six months ago, Golfweek found itself awash in controversy when it put a noose on its cover to illustrate the Kelly Tilghman-Tiger Woods story. Editor Dave Seanor lost his job over his handling of the situation, which occurred when Tilghman made an inflammatory remark about Woods. Race is an uncomfortable subject for many people, and the Illinois senator's candidacy for the White House is forcing them to confront their prejudices about Black people.
The New Yorker editor-in-chief David Remnick and artist Barry Blitt thought they were advancing political discourse by creating an image meant to mock stereotypes about the Obamas, but their decision to portray the couple in a satirical manner undermined the Democratic presidential nominee's efforts to debunk the myths that surround his faith (as well as his wife's comments about having pride in America). Satire is supposed to make you laugh as well as think; when done properly -- a good example is All in the Family -- the joke is self-explanatory. (I wasn't offended by the image ... but I didn't find it amusing, either.)
Seeing Remnick and Blitt go on the defensive about the provocative cover only shows that their attempt at humor was ineffective. It played on people's fears that the Obamas are militants who pledge allegiance to Osama bin Laden, not the American flag. They also did a disservice to correspondent Ryan Lizza, whose nearly-15,000-word story had no relation to the image.
There's a time to be funny and a time to be serious ... but, with so much at stake in this election, The New Yorker should stick to in-depth journalism and leave the comedy routine to Mark Russell.

All Eyes on Zimbabwe

The Constitution grants citizens of the United States freedom of expression and the right to vote, among other things. These privileges are seen as the building blocks for achieving the American Dream -- yet, on the other side of the world, people in Zimbabwe hope to do something that many Americans take for granted: choose their next president.
Robert Mugabe has used intimidation and violence to govern this African nation since 1980, when he rose to power. During this time, it has seen an increase in human rights violations along with a decline in its economy. This scenario is all-too-familiar throughout the continent, whether it's in Rwanda or Sudan. The impact of colonialism isn't limited to being mistreated by foreign entities -- such abuse can also be homegrown.
In recent years, Zimbabweans have used their voice to express their unhappiness with Mugabe's regime -- despite threats of vicious beatings, false imprisonment, or being forced from their homes. After winning the general election on March 29 -- but failing to secure the majority vote -- Morgan Tsvangirai was set to face Mugabe in a runoff election on June 27 until he withdrew his name from the ballot five days earlier. (The systematic killing of Tsvangirai supporters over the course of three months prompted him to denounce the contest as "illegitimate.")
The low turnout proved that democracy won't happen overnight. Given Mugabe's "victory," it's ironic that he sees the international community as a threat, since he believes that "only God will remove [him]" from office. Well, God has spoken ... and He said it's time for new leadership in Zimbabwe.

Father Figure

Archie Bunker. Cliff Huxtable. Homer Simpson. These television icons have little in common, but they share a bond as members in the fraternity of fatherhood -- along with the man I call Pops.
Like those fictional characters, my father was a working-class man who always put family first. He took pride in playing an active role in his children's lives, and he inspired me and my three brothers to become productive members of society. In an environment where Black men are often pigeonholed as deadbeat dads, Pops' presence was instrumental in my evolution from a girl to a woman.
As the only daughter in the Davis household, I was the apple of my father's eye. I'd rummage through his closet looking for money -- usually pennies -- without consequence, and mock his status as patriarch by calling him 'Old Buzzard.' In return, he'd pinch my cheeks and address me as 'Subject.' My brothers thought I was a spoiled brat because I took certain liberties in my relationship with Pops, but the truth is he and I had such a close bond because we're both Capricorns.
Growing up, my father encouraged me to pursue my dreams -- even if he didn't share my passion for writing. And he didn't hesitate to offer me advice on navigating life's ups and downs -- even when his opinions were unsolicited. While Pops possessed many attributes, he wasn't without his shortcomings. His gruff demeanor made him a difficult person to please, and his stubbornness was at the root of many arguments between us. Nevertheless, I love him because I know he has my best interests at heart.
Relationships between men and women may be complicated, but the bond I share with my father is simple -- as in simply amazing. I can't think of a better way to spend the third Sunday of June than paying homage to Pops, for he's the most important male figure in my life.

Politics As Usual

The Democratic National Committee's decision on May 31 to allow Florida and Michigan delegates to cast half a vote at the party's convention this summer isn't about preserving democracy -- it's about undermining the process.
When the aforementioned states conducted their primaries before February 5, they did so in violation of party rules. Their eagerness to influence the outcome in what would become a historic race between Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama for the nomination led the DNC to strip their delegates of votes at the August 25-28 gathering in Denver. By reversing itself on this issue, Democrats appear to be more divided now than ever before ... and what makes matters worse is they can't reassure the public that a similar crisis won't happen in the future.
Watching the primary (and caucus) season turn into an overblown soap opera is bad enough, but seeing the DNC destroy itself is truly heartbreaking. This compromise doesn't unite the Democrats -- it moves them one step closer toward disintegrating. Clinton isn't doing herself or the party any favors by trying to secure delegates she agreed to give up when the DNC handed out their punishment against Florida and Michigan. In fact, her efforts to win the nomination by any means necessary make Niccolò Machiavelli look like Mother Teresa.
Changing the rules after the game has started casts a cloud of suspicion over the results, and that goes against everything democracy is supposed to represent. Having all of the delegates' votes count equally is a matter of fairness ... but when you break the rules, you must suffer the consequences. If party officials in Florida and Michigan had held their primaries as originally scheduled, they wouldn't be in this predicament.
When it comes to politics, Democrats and Republicans enjoy playing the blame game with each other. This time around, though, the DNC has no one to blame for this fiasco but itself.

S.O.S. (Signs of Summer)

New York is an exciting place to call home because there's always something going on ... and with Fleet Week comes the unofficial start of summer.
The arrival of thousands of Navy sailors, Marines, and Coast Guard officers coincides with the season of graduations and weddings. Movie premieres bombard the cineplexes and families host barbecues as the days get longer and the temperature rises. These gatherings bring people together to create special memories and form emotional bonds ... and while some moments are fleeting, others last a lifetime.
Dreams of finding a job or falling in love tend to blossom in the summertime. Goals that once seemed out of reach now lie within one's grasp as fear turns into fearlessness, which are reflected in events as deliberate as launching the USS Missouri into World War II (Japan signed its unconditional surrender to the United States on the warship) or as spontaneous as being the object of a sailor's desire (like the nurse in the Alfred Eisenstaedt photograph for LIFE magazine).
That historic occasion represented the culmination of sacrifice for a cause. As for that iconic image, it captured the need to live in the moment. While these philosophies -- taking on new responsibilities and indulging in carefree fantasies -- are applied on a daily basis, summer is the best time to see them on display. For those who spend most of the year playing it safe, now is the perfect opportunity to set sail for adventure.

Mommy Dearest

The bond between woman and child is recognized annually in the United States on the second Sunday of May. But in the Davis household, Mother's Day is every day.
When my mother gave birth to my oldest brother in 1972, she left the workforce to become a full-time parent. She once told me that she chose to forgo a career because she didn't want a stranger raising her kids. I didn't know what to make of this revelation because the women's liberation movement -- which was in full swing when she made this life-altering decision -- was about achieving balance in the home and at the office. As I got older, I realized that no goal is achieved without sacrifice ... and being a good parent is no exception.
Putting a child's needs ahead of your own isn't an easy feat to pull off, but my mother did it with ease. She probably dreamed of going to college and traveling around the world, but those aspirations went unfulfilled as she devoted herself to maintaining the house and nursing our ailments (among other things). Living under the same roof occasionally made us bring out the worst in each other as I reached adolescence (and adulthood), and differences of opinion sometimes turned into bitter conflict.
Unlike the baby boomer generation, I can't imagine being a wife and mother at the age of 25. (Britney Spears did it, and look how her life turned out!) Generation X members are career-oriented people who have no qualms about delaying motherhood or marriage ... and while that makes me an "old maid" in my mother's eyes, I also know her love for me is unconditional.
The relationship between mother and daughter is as complicated as it is everlasting ... but it's one of the most rewarding connections that two females can share. I love you, Mom!

Game Over

The New York Knicks took the first step toward restoring its image by firing Isiah Thomas as its coach on April 18. While die-hard fans like myself knew this outcome was inevitable, such a move was also long overdue.
Thomas was originally hired by the team to serve as its president in 2003, and he assumed coaching duties three years later. After a tenure marked by an endless series of bad decisions, he's been reduced to taking an advisory role for new president Donnie Walsh. From making bad trades (Eddy Curry, Stephon Marbury, Zach Randolph -- the list goes on) to hastily dismissing coaches (Larry Brown only lasted one season, yet received an $18.5 million buyout), Thomas turned what was once an elite franchise into a cruel joke.
The players looked lost on the court, and they showed little to no effort against the opposition. Subpar teams like the Indiana Pacers picked up four easy wins against them this past season, and rejuvenated clubs like the Boston Celtics made the Knicks seem like a bunch of scrubs. Being embarrassed by the competition within the Eastern Conference was a sign of things to come as they faced powerhouse teams in the Western Conference, like the San Antonio Spurs and the Los Angeles Lakers. As the losses piled up, so did the excuses ... but the blame goes beyond Thomas and the 12-man roster he assembled.
Thomas' incompetent leadership was financed by James Dolan, a clueless owner whose only skill is handing out huge contracts for little work. (Say what you will about George Steinbrenner and the New York Yankees -- at least he pays top dollar for solid players ... and he won't settle for anything less than a championship.) But the Knicks' on-court troubles paled in comparison to being on the wrong end of a sexual harassment claim filed by former team executive Anucha Browne Sanders. In 2007, a jury awarded her $11.6 million in punitive damages after she revealed sordid details about the workplace culture she endured at Madison Square Garden.
As far as I'm concerned, Walsh is being too kind by keeping Thomas on the payroll after the five seasons of carnage he created. If he's serious about rebuilding the team, he needs to start from scratch. Hire a coach who can implement a winning strategy, waive underachieving players, and use draft picks wisely. Following this blueprint will bring the team back to respectability ... and maybe even the playoffs, where they can once again contend for a Larry O'Brien trophy.

The 'Audacity' of Obama

Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ after his crucifixion. The religious holiday took on new meaning this year after Barack Obama rejuvenated his presidential campaign with a speech on March 18 that focused on the state of race relations in the United States.
Part history lesson and part life story, Obama's call for racial reconciliation struck a chord with millions of people because it was genuine. He turned what started out as a controversy over inflammatory sermons delivered by his former pastor, Jeremiah Wright, into an opportunity to address the impact of racism as well as the influence of religion. Not only that, but in the course of 37 minutes, he showed that everyone has a vested interest in facing these complex issues.
It's hypocritical for commentators, whether they support fellow presidential candidates Hillary Rodham Clinton or John McCain, to try to hold Obama accountable for words he didn't speak. If they're going to travel down the slippery slope of guilt by association, Clinton should distance herself from Bill Clinton, who's been more of a liability than an asset to her bid for the White House ... and McCain should sever ties with Rod Parsley, who called for the destruction of Islam in his book, Silent No More.
Given everything at stake in this election, the public can't afford to let partisan politics distract them from demanding solutions to pressing matters like improving the economy or ending the war in Iraq. Obama is a breath of fresh air on the political scene because he's the antithesis of business as usual. While he's not without his shortcomings, his willingness to engage the masses in the electoral process and think outside the box to resolve major crises is inspiring. Such qualities are why he'll likely be the last person standing on Election Day -- just like Jesus Christ rose above his followers on that fateful Sunday many centuries ago.

Riding the 'Banzuke' Bandwagon

As a seasoned traveler, I enjoy learning about different cultures and trying new experiences. In recent times, though, I've been forced to seek less expensive means of indulging in global exploration. One tactic I've used to help me discover the world without leaving my parents' apartment is watching Unbeatable Banzuke on G4.
The game show, which is based in Japan, consists of various obstacle courses that are mentally and physically challenging. Contestants tackle feats such as "Hand Walk" and "Sponge Bridge" in an effort to reach athletic immortality. The beauty of these events is they look easy, but are difficult to master -- as most participants find out the hard way.
On that note, the appeal of Unbeatable Banzuke lies in its diversity. Students, retirees, and others young and old test their skills -- or lack thereof -- in front of millions of people. Like the season premiere of American Idol, what keeps me tuning in for each episode aren't the many failures ... but the rare victories. Those who emerge as winners -- like the mother/son team who conquered "Athletic Love" or the trio of boxers who mastered "Seesaw 60" -- have their names added to the list of champions, which is equivalent to bragging rights in the United States.
Unlike U.S.-based game shows, Unbeatable Banzuke isn't about having the most cash or prizes. A sense of accomplishment is its own reward, along with the pride of knowing that a goal was achieved without compromising one's integrity or sacrificing one's soul. Such family-friendly entertainment is the perfect counterpoint to the lowest-common-denominator programming that clogs the boob tube -- which is why I'm happy to see it cross the Pacific Ocean and reach a wider audience.

Fumbling Towards Disaster

On March 10, Eliot Spitzer fell victim to the ultimate political cliché: a sex scandal.
Spitzer, who rose to national prominence while serving as attorney general of New York and pledged to restore accountability as its governor, found himself on the wrong side of the law when he was caught on wiretap arranging a meeting with a prostitute at the Mayflower Hotel on February 13. A politician engaging in such behavior is nothing new; the practice is as old as time itself. However, when one stakes a claim on the pedestal of ethics, enemies lurk in the shadows waiting for the inevitable fall from grace.
State lawmakers called for Spitzer's resignation on March 11, and he announced his departure from office the next day. But losing the governorship is the least of Spitzer's worries, for his dalliances with a call girl also jeopardized his marriage and scarred his three daughters. Betraying their trust in a reckless manner may warrant forgiveness if his contrition is sincere, but his constituents won't feel as charitable because they abhor hypocrisy. That's the worst aspect of this situation: Spitzer's public persona is a shield for his private demons.
It's ironic that a man who built his career on fighting corruption ends up being poisoned by it. Spitzer thought he was beyond reproach and his actions were without consequences ... but the repercussions of that night in Washington, D.C., extend beyond the bedroom. The possibility that he used taxpayer dollars to finance his sexual urges may lead him to spend many years at a place with less-than-upscale accommodations: prison. Then again, a life sentence of humiliation -- one which he brought on himself -- is more than enough of a punishment.

Lights Out for 'K*Ville'?

Now that the Hollywood writers' strike is over, television networks can resume airing new episodes of programs like The Office and Ugly Betty. For the past three months, reality-based shows dominated the TV landscape ... but one series that was too real for many Americans was K*Ville, which is now on the verge of cancellation.
The drama focused on two New Orleans police officers, Marlin Boulet and Trevor Cobb, as they adapted to a new world order after Hurricane Katrina turned their city -- and their lives -- upside down. It went beyond the stereotypical theme of mismatched cops patrolling a metropolis to show how bureaucracy can be a more formidable opponent than any criminal lurking on the streets. During its 10-episode run, Boulet and Cobb found themselves in the cross hairs of wealthy residents undermining the rebuilding process ("Pilot") as well as public officials patronizing the local brothel ("Bedfellows").
What I liked most about K*Ville was that New Orleans itself was also a major character. Its culture was an integral part of the show's appeal, and I could empathize with the protagonists -- especially since I visited the city for Mardi Gras 2006. While it had some detractors, the storylines (Boulet and Cobb dealing with an out-of-town journalist in "Ride Along") and plot twists (Boulet being tempted to steal drug money in "Flood, Wind, and Fire") made me a devoted viewer. Unfortunately, I was in the minority, for the show was mired in low ratings.
The frustrating thing about K*Ville being in limbo is the interruption of the characters' development. I wanted to know more about Cobb's not-so-angelic past, Boulet's inner torment over his dead brother, Charlie's efforts to redeem himself in the eyes of his former colleagues, and Embry's strained relationship with his daughter. (Charlie is Boulet's former partner, while Embry is their boss.) These people are more than just products of a writer's imagination -- they're a microcosm of America.
It's a shame that FOX is likely to give up on K*Ville ... but with the government having all but given up on New Orleans, such a move is nothing but a case of history repeating itself.

We Are the Champions

The New England Patriots crossed the finish line to their historic season on February 3, but the storybook ending eluded them as the New York Giants claimed a 17-14 victory at Super Bowl XLII.
When it comes to major sporting events, the game itself usually takes a backseat to the subplots ... and this is no exception. The Giants redeemed themselves from a 38-35 loss to the Patriots in Week 17 to become the first NFC wild-card team to reach the Super Bowl since 1975. They also relished their underdog status in pursuit of the Vince Lombardi trophy -- despite a 10-game road win streak. Their philosophy of viewing obstacles as opportunities made it easy for me to buck conventional wisdom and support my hometown team.
At the other end of the spectrum are the Patriots, who became the first team to close out the regular season undefeated since the Miami Dolphins did it in 1972. Not only that, but Tom Brady and Randy Moss set NFL records for touchdown passes and receptions, respectively. Such accomplishments fostered huge expectations for them to end the season on a high note, but the endless fawning by sportswriters grew tiresome. As much as I respect the Patriots' achievements, they're not invincible. (I’m not referring to "Spygate", but the close calls against teams like the Baltimore Ravens and the Philadelphia Eagles earlier in the season.)
Subplots aren't the only element that provides entertainment value to the Super Bowl. Commercials from Bud Light (wine and cheese party) and T-Mobile (Charles Barkley torments Dwyane Wade) were among dozens of 30-second ads aimed at couch potatoes across the United States. But while advertisers relied on comedy to sell their products to millions of viewers, the Giants combined smothering defense with a sharp offense to produce one of the most dramatic upsets in the history of sports.
Yogi Berra once said "it ain't over 'til it's over." Thanks to the Giants, the Patriots' pursuit of perfection has been denied.

Not-So-Pretty Noose

Tiger Woods' prowess on the golf course transcends the sport. His dominance of the PGA Tour over the past decade redefined how fans look at the game and forced other golfers to step up their performance. On January 4, Golf Channel anchor Kelly Tilghman offered advice for those looking to do just that, suggesting that the only way to end Woods' reign is to "lynch him in a back alley." Her insensitive remark had repercussions that extended beyond her intended audience.
Although Woods issued a statement saying he didn't believe there was malicious intent behind her words, Tilghman received a two-week suspension for her comment on January 9. Golfweek used its January 19 issue as an opportunity to address the controversy with an in-depth article along with a noose on the cover. Like most publications, their editorial process involved some debate about this risky move ... but this idea never should've been rewarded with approval.
I understand Golfweek's rationale behind their decision, for the image was meant to grab one's attention, stir an emotion, and create a dialogue about race relations. The sport's lack of diversity is symbolic of the racism that permeates society, but the magazine's approach was a botched attempt to confront the elephant in the room ... and, in the end, it cost Dave Seanor his job as editor.
The timing of this situation is ironic, since it occurred just before the observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday. While I applaud Golfweek for not sweeping the Tilghman incident under the rug, Seanor's good intentions doesn't excuse his ignorance of Black history. The noose conjures up negative feelings for many Black people because White supremacists used it as a weapon to kill their ancestors during slavery. It also doubled as a tool of intimidation, as recent incidents in Jena, Louisiana, and at Columbia University have demonstrated.
Lynching may be seen as a 19th-century scare tactic, but its ugly history still hangs over society in the 21st century. To put it another way, sending Seanor to the unemployment line doesn't change the fact that the elephant is still in the room. This unfortunate episode serves as yet another reminder that Dr. King's dream is still a work in progress.

A New Beginning

Millions of people see January 1 as a day of change. That's when new year's resolutions go into effect, and the chance to start life with a clean slate is yours for the taking. But improving oneself is a work in progress -- a job that goes beyond the next 366 days.
I'm wary of new year's resolutions because they usually perpetuate unrealistic expectations. Whatever one's goal may be, whether it's losing weight or meeting someone, it should be something that's practical and tangible. It's the one occasion where self-centeredness is appropriate, for such aspirations are about making yourself happy.
The Declaration of Independence grants American citizens the right to pursue happiness, and the blueprint to reaching that state of mind lies in knowing the three A's: acknowledgement, analysis, and acceptance. Acknowledge your shortcomings, for no one is perfect. Analyze your fears, for that's a major step toward conquering them. Finally, accept your past, for it's the best tool to help you prepare for a better future.
With that in mind, my goals for 2008 are to maintain good health, find a new job, and -- most important -- live to see 2009.