Greg Brian (Gregoriancant)

Living in Salem, OR
Total page views: 865,966
Published Content: 1,050
Fans: 126
On AC since: 05.26.07
Bio:
Award-winning & prolific freelance writer who currently writes for a number of prestigious media sites--most notably Associated Content, BrightHub and Demand Studios. As a ground central for this author's insights, go to Twitter.com/gregoriancant.
Education/Experience:
Associate Degree in Business Management
Motto:
Searching for the meaning of life is the meaning of life.
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What happens when Apple and Steve Jobs decide to consolidate all of their technology into one invention? This satire looks at the iCar and the potential for not only dominating the car industry, but yet again cornering the double entendre market...
It's the years in review, the time when our life flashes before our eyes and brings us the essence of life at life's end--or perhaps long before then...
How many China-made Christmas lights have you bought over the years that ended up having one section of the string going out after one year of use? The Lightkeeper Pro gun helps bring these lights back to life and helps usurp degraded quality...
With CBS's "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "Frosty the Snowman" celebrating their 45th & 40th anniversaries, questions remain why they endure and why new specials like them don't succeed. It may be a willful act by today's TV writers...
Pianists in malls during the holidays used to be assured employment for piano players until the economy cut it back. While that fluctuates annually, here's what you need to know to be successful at playing piano in a mall amid stressed consumers...
Everybody wants to have a perfect Thanksgiving with no family acrimony. But if full realization of such a thing is impossible, you can create something close with these tips--bringing a sense of thankfulness to those who hold familial grudges...
When "Sesame Street" parodied Fox News with a segment of Pox News, the flak was inevitable. Here's a satire of what would happen should "Sesame Street" make amends with Fox News and feature their anchors in a very special episode...
With Australian law going after lip-syncing in the music industry to force concert promoters to admit it on ticket stubs, how would the American music industry fare if such a law formed here?
The neighborhood watch keeps evolving with the times and in how we view our communities. If we choose to realize our neighborhoods aren't utopia, these variations on the neighborhood watch can potentially bring something close...
Those who grew up watching all the Peanuts specials on CBS for 35 years may have had trouble adjusting seeing them on ABC starting in 2001 to present. Does it mean TV specials from our childhood work better in their original network context?
Do black cats really bring misfortune? They may at least see things in vast darkness we never thought them capable of seeing before. And what they see in the night may be misunderstood by us humans until the unknown interacts with one person...
When the International Group for Historic Aircraft Recovery began expeditions on a Pacific atoll in 1989 to solve the Amelia Earhart mystery, evidence looked compelling. Since then, time and nature makes a satisfactory conclusion more challenging...
A mysterious website asking "Have You Dreamed This Man?" recently popped up in cyberspace. On the site, an eerie face is shown that people worldwide claim they see in their dreams. Or is this site a new method of viral marketing?
The Search for Intelligent Life program (SETI) just celebrated 50 years, even though the debates still linger over its usefulness. When philosophies eventually consolidate, should we look for intelligent life visiting us right here on Earth?
Predicting the future has been in movies going back to the earliest Sci-Fi. The John Cusack-starring movie "2012", though, seems to want to be the most prescient ever, even though it may set off a new philosophy in how we view the future...
We all have strange stories to tell about dealing with both cute and trouble-making trick-or-treaters on Halloween night. Here's tips on how to deal with any situation at your door so a meltdown of embarrassment doesn't put a pall on the evening...
Now that Michael Buble has everybody's attention, his newest album "Crazy Love" manages to capture his familiar style & vocal ability in full. Even if the song selections are subjective, the adherence to the Great American Songbook is still there...
When the breast cancer treatment drug Arimidex became available the last few years, it ultimately became a much safer alternative to Tamoxifen. Now it's become one of the most powerful breast cancer drugs in place of more grueling chemotherapy.
In Ken Burns' "The National Parks: U.S.'s Great Idea", we saw a major attempt to cover all 158 national parks in America. But the beautiful national parks in Oregon received shorter mention, despite being as profound as peering into the Grand Canyon...
When a grade school in New Jersey had kids sing a political praise song about Pres. Obama, critics didn't know similar Presidential songs had been sung in schools since the 1930's. With a recent find of those songs, history once again tempers rage...
Out of all the bonus features the 70th anniversary box set of "The Wizard of Oz" contains, it's the inclusion of 1990's "The Dreamer of Oz" that's more notable. This biopic of L. Frank Baum and starring John Ritter deserves a bigger audience...
While it's usually a rare idea, Maurice Sendak's classic "Where the Wild Things Are" appears to have had some revolutionary ideas about psychoanalysis. Was it showing a method for children to use the Jungian method to conquer emotions before adulthood?
What a shame that Carl Jung's Red Book, a rumored diary documenting his journey into the collective unconscious, wasn't available to the masses earlier. Now that it is, Hollywood should use it as a method to tap into higher creative realms.
The business model of a temporary store has been around a while, but usually only with Halloween or Christmas-themed stores. Now with Toys R Us creating hundreds of temp stores soon, the small business may want to step in to save themselves.
After reports that showerheads can spray bacteria on us while showering, some might have considered taking baths instead. The divide over baths and showers has become wider in recent years, despite surprises on which one is more energy efficient.
After the CDC announced the armpit maneuver as the way to prevent a sneeze from going into the air, a million business suits were subsequently ruined. Henceforth are new procedures from the CDC to prevent a sneeze from being contagious...
When I wrote about Katharine McPhee last two years ago, I described her as a superstar yet to be a superstar. Now with her anticipated second album soon to arrive, that might be lifted - assuming releasing in January 2010 doesn't hurt sales.
Even though NBC's new sitcom "Community" might show the absurd side of the community college in America, it's also a scathing look at the widening dichotomy between community colleges and major universities...
When Chris Brown wore a bow tie on Larry King Live, it appeared to be a statement of atonement and studiousness. The truth is that the bow tie is making a new fashion statement for people who haven't a studious bone in their body.
When Entertainment Weekly utilized a thin video player in select issues this month, the future was set. But while it may look like "Minority Report" soon, print media's wish of dominating over internet may all depend on the presentation...
Opening for business during the summer of this writing, the reSTART internet and gaming addiction clinic in WA state helps people balance technology with nature. Now we wait for addiction admittance and whether careers will be disrupted...
CBS's new fall series "The Good Wife" might bring a strong female character to TV again. But its plot is quite a different universe from real political couples staying together of late after infidelities, although the show may provide answers as to why.
After the world was stunned by Britain's ultra graphic PSA of a car accident via the result of texting while driving, chances are a eureka light came on in America's Madison Avenue. Depicting harsh reality may work if done through a certain way...
Riding a school bus for the first time might be an intimidating experience for a student, but it doesn't have to be. These tips will show you how to handle the politics of riding on a school bus through a student's entire teenage years...
Out of all the incredible documentaries of nature in the IMAX format, it wasn't until the 2000's when underwater documentaries in IMAX 3D became more prominent as the result of two oceanographer brothers from France. Meet the Mantello Brothers...
With so many options in a DVR, it's the VHS/DVD recorder combos that have the most problems and gripes. Toshiba, however, managed to create a decent combo recorder at a reasonable price. Any problems can be averted by knowing a few simple things...
Now that At the Movies did the right thing and brought A.O. Scott and Michael Phillips to the balcony, a chance to return to the Siskel & Ebert days may be upon us. The only unknowns will be two things: chemistry and a good fight.
Have you noticed how many iconic buildings with well-known namesakes are being replaced with a corporate title? It's also encroaching in local communities where prior building names associated with goodwill are getting their own corporate takeover.
Cocaine has been an obvious problem in Hollywood for decades, though insiders ban celebs abusing it recently. But has there been a more clandestine addiction going on concurrently due to the increasing pressure in realizing the American Dream?
One of the biggest hassles to placing blinds on windows of your home is in controlling light without compromising privacy. Cellular blinds provide the best alternatives with energy efficiency and should do away with all other blinds forever...
While "Julie & Julia" shows the side of Julia Child we know her for in the French culinary arts, her secret work for the OSS in WWII should also be dramatized. Her time there had as much wit and efficiency as her Paris years...
As challenging as it may be to buy a grand piano in a bad economy, finding the perfect location to place it in your home will be an equal challenge. Here's tips on where to permanently place it to safely sound good privately and during parties...
Convincingly aging an actor in a movie has never been completely convincing, though much better recently with advanced prosthetic makeup. But 2010-11's "Harry Potter & the Death Hallows" has an advanced CGI aging effect that could change everything...
Who says boycotts can't be effective? Mr. Tennyson managed to rally thousands of people over the internet to attempt to change television for the better. That is, until Miss Pinsky wrote him a letter, leading to a duel not seen before...
As useful as Cash for Clunkers was for those who were able to make additional payments on a new vehicle, others would have preferred the troubled government program allowing a cheaper route of buying or trading for a newer used vehicle...
America has a new art movement of pop culture impressionism via multimedia concert tours. Shows such as The Beatles' "Love" and "Star Wars: In Concert" bring audience preferences of assimilating an essence of iconic media over the real thing...
Reports are that the U.S. west coast is even more of a sitting duck for a massive tsunami someday due to dangerous earthquake faults in Alaska. This doesn't mean cooperative evacuation still can't be done, with a little help from Coast Guard friends...
After the world lost Walter Cronkite, reporters everywhere seemed adamant to uphold his journalistic philosophy, despite that being impossible now. For citizen journalists, though, their path with no constraint is wide open to bring it back...
When you look back at attempts to repair America's complicated health care system, prevention education always get shoved in the corner. Obama's plan gives it a cursory mention, but making it front and center would have been the ultimate fix...
There probably won't be much argument that Whitney Houston made the power ballad the most accessible of any artist thriving on the same genre. Now with her new comeback album bringing power ballads back, is America in the mood for them again?
There isn't a doubt that J.K. Rowling set out to create the most vile villain in young adult writing history with Voldemort. Will that lead to a dead-end for future antagonists in books for children, or just more interesting ambiguity?
While Hollywood will try, it seems unlikely any other film in 2009 will come close to the majestic qualities of "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince." Oscar may shower it with awards, though may also want to wait for the Deathly Hallows...
When renting a car, most experienced travelers will say that it's mandatory to have a credit card. But with so many people abandoning credit, car rentals are forced to accept alternative payment methods. Here's what you need to know in advance.
When NASA sent up the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter this year, we weren't initially told that locating Apollo's moon landing sites would be a top priority to finally shut down the moon landing hoax theories. But will it make any difference?
Former politicians starting talk shows hasn't been a crowded field yet other than a select few. Now with Sarah Palin likely heading that direction for more financial and personal stability, all other prominent politicians may follow suit...
An update on an article I did in 2008 about a litter fee imposed on NASA by Esperance, Australia after Skylab fell there on July 12, 1979. Now it's been paid thanks to a CA radio personality as we ponder whether satellites will fall again...
As fascinating as Michael Jackson's life was, it's the music that ultimately has the strongest pull of attraction. When posthumous releases happen, expect the entire music industry to recalculate their marketing plans for other artists...
When I wrote a piece about Deaths in Threes in March of '08, I figured it would matter more later. And, in the summer of '09, it surely did, even though we're now dealing with an inflated death count. Here's a follow-up with possible explanations...
Reincarnation is a subject that never goes away, especially when so many cases of children recalling the memories of a long-ago departed person keep happening. But can we really call it reincarnation or merely memory transfer with a divine purpose?
The American pastime of buying fireworks for the 4th of July used to be a carefree process of where you bought them. Now, with economic troubles plaguing America, seeking out fireworks dealers who give to charity could make consumerism more patriotic...
There isn't any denying that proper communication in corporations isn't always at the level it should be. With a microblogging tool called Yammer, productivity may improve through the use of unique communication and psychology...
There isn't any denying that Ed McMahon was one of the greatest TV pitchmen ever. Yet his barker background belied his conversational style used in ads that's now going away in favor of the aggressive Billy Mays barker style...
The death of Michael Jackson has so many angles, we'll be seeing ruminations about it for years to come. But the overriding lesson learned is how dangerous superstardom has become and how Jackson's death may change the process or those who seek fame...
The symbiotic process of following someone on Twitter has become too much of an obsession for many. When they find out that most of their followers are spammers, the idea of where they're really gaining followers gets lost in all the tweeting...
Presumptive guilt in trial is a natural trait by every human being. In the world of international tribunals with high court judges, it's a big problem, yet the truths behind it still get overlooked. But North Korea is now the new example...
While a busier world didn't show massive outrage over a 70-something woman being tased with a taser gun in Texas, the chances are good that taser laws will be altered in some states--giving treatment of retirees a lot more leniency...
Remember the annual "100 Years, 100 Movies" CBS specials from the American Film Institute? After 11 years, it appears they're no more, unless there's one later that rightfully celebrates a countdown of films from 1939 now celebrating 70 years...
If there's any true fashion division of males and females, it may be in sun hats. Women almost always look good in one. For males, it takes more shopping time and a little obsession over how wide the brim has to be to protect from UV rays...
North Korea could be imposing psychological torture on American prisoners they take in--with Laura Ling & Euna Lee being unfortunate recipients of it. In the 90's, one man held prisoner there for three months may have given proof...
The cities and towns within Oregon's Willamette Valley may be smaller compared to Portland, but the commitment to the arts is arguably greater. And nearly superseding that is the overwhelming color of green that you'll see for miles along I-5...
All the fear of our GPS satellites going down in the coming decade may be a blessing in disguise. If wishfully temporary, having a chance to navigate our planet without GPS would bring back dormant human instincts lost centuries ago...
Susan Boyle's seeming relief in losing "Britain's Got Talent" could be the beginning in Britain of one trend already happening in America: The use of these shows as a strong dose of publicity with no care whether you win or not...
With the death of abortion doctor George Tiller comes an opportunity to finally brings heads to a table and discuss why we're so divided on abortion. After a look at historical record, a fresh discussion could create an epiphany...
Wedding vows have become so mechanical or forced through canonical ceremonies that all sense of relevancy to a modern marriage gets overlooked. Here's a lesson in how to make vows that are more meaningful and consistent with reality...
With America's credit card industry getting so many people in trouble, it's a wonder every citizen doesn't switch to using a prepaid debit card. These cards give a psychological boost in using a card on the net, yet still keep one within their means...
How do you depict Oregon's 150 years of history on floats for the stunning Portland Rose Festival Parade? It turns out, using all natural materials (as they always do) and perhaps a few actors...
When the first miniseries of "V" aired in 1983, most viewers took the aliens coming to Earth plot as an allegory for the Third Reich. But with a new "V" series on the horizon, it could be taken literally this time from an evolution of deeper thought...
There seems to be an adamant push to make the new lemur-like fossil found in Germany a central point in evolutionary theory. But if the creationists keep their cool and bring the evolutionists to their table, a bigger answer could be had...
Even though Farrah Fawcett's message in her "Farrah's Story" was emotional, heartfelt and meaningful, the sideline message might have conveyed fatalism and unnecessary fear about cancer. In the world of oncology, it might require another view...
After two years writing for Associated Content, I've been pinned as the man who always writes substantive articles. While I admit that's true, the potentials of it being a liability are strong, unless a careful balance is attempted...
The 10 p.m. hour on network TV has been full of so many drama shows for years that it's been long forgotten comedy once existed at that hour. "The Jay Leno Show" could draw some inspiration from these variety shows once aired in that slot...
It's more than safe to say that Martin Scorsese has taken the biographical film to amazing heights in the last 30 years. Now with his upcoming "Sinatra", he may just take it further and consolidate studies of more American figures he's long delayed...
How many times have you watched Jay Leno's Jaywalking segments and either turned the channel in disgust or just painfully wince at the brazen stupidity?
Should you be heading to Bend, Oregon to just do hiking or skiing, consider stopping by the High Desert Museum for one afternoon.
While it's recommended to stay at the Oregon Coast for days if not weeks, you can have a fulfilling time there in just one day.
As the human race continues to evolve at incredible rates, so has the act of lying. Particularly in murderers such as Drew Peterson and O.J. Simpson, that more believable lying is the result of convincing themselves they didn't commit murder...
While the banning of extremists in the U.K. may appear to be just a conservative movement there, perhaps it's the building of a different philosophy. The Brits could be tiring of a troubled world and desiring utopia...
ABC's 2009-2010 fall schedule may have a huge hit with "Modern Family" that pokes holes in the reality show concept. But this show also borrows its basic format from an Albert Brooks comedy celebrating its 30th anniversary this year...
15 years after "Forrest Gump" was released, its fans and detractors still debate the philosophy behind the film. Perhaps a sequel giving Forrest's view of post-9/11 times would finally bring a collective understanding of that philosophy...
Using a headbutt in self-defense is on par with the most effective martial arts moves without having to use your arms or legs. However, it can frequently backfire without quick mental and physical preparation.
Since most references to "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" are of Mickey Mouse controlling the universe, it's placed Goethe's poem of the tale in the background. But his version is a little outdated in the way a boss works with his apprentice...
It seems that the late Dom DeLuise's starring vehicle "Fatso" is his most beloved movie as a forward-thinking exploration of obesity. But while it made excellent comedic points in how to avoid overeating, it missed one important way to stop it...
After three decades of cable companies feeling secure, they aren't any longer as statistics show a definite gravitation toward watching TV shows online. With that comes possible business acquisitions and the advent of better creativity in programming...
While it's outstanding news that food banks are suddenly getting a spike in donations compared to the drought of last year, who made it that way would be an interesting sociological study. The answer of who shouldn't be surprising...
Disney's Disneynature production arm might be accused of being politically motivated to the liberal side. But there isn't any evidence of that despite allowing us to look decades back to the truly balanced True-Life Adventures...
Most people find it shocking that the creator of Mother's Day later protested against her holiday because of its overt commercialization. Anna Jarvis wanted us to write a personal note to our mothers that comes from the heart. Here's how to do it...
It shouldn't be any surprise that J.J. Abrams' take on "Star Trek" would have more sex, violence and language. Perhaps that edge, though, would have been done by Gene Roddenberry in the 1960s had the times been different...
With the defection of Sen. Arlen Specter from Republican to Democrat, we tend to forget how many times this has happened in D.C. It hasn't been often, but it's a tip that much political conflict has been there for two centuries...
The FCC almost had a peaceful June 12 transition from analog to digital in their hands until a new requirement was asked of those with a digital box: Rescan your box to get channels added in recent months. Confusion ensues...
It was inevitable that Microsoft would attempt to get into the social networking fray. Through their new Vine software, we have a communication tool that may have its best marketing method implemented during a natural disaster or terrorism incident...
Should you be one of the unlucky ones who become a magnet of people coughing or sneezing on you in public places, then the 2009 Swine Flu threat may just bring more awareness and stop it...at least for a while...
Seeing artificial sweeteners in restaurants and refined sugar in every dessert imaginable has been a part of the American way for decades. With the sweet herb called Stevia, though, we have a chance to consume a sweetener that doesn't cause illness...
Most people who grew up with "Schoolhouse Rock" know Blossom Dearie as the girlie voice who sang "Figure Eight." But for those of us who dug deeper, there was an epiphany of realizing she was one of the greatest jazz singers/pianists of all time.
Buzz cuts and crewcuts have been around for close to 60 years now, though always associated with something else other than casual. In recent decades, they've become a convenient way to keep cool during the summer and lift a weight from one's head...
The Slip N' Slide has gone from a basic version to dozens of variants that are both fun and just plain annoying if unworkable. Here's a look at the Slip N' Slide from its inception up to its revival editions that Wham-O made much more daring...
Sometimes the healthiest snack foods can be overlooked via more unhealthy foods that have a stronger gravitational pull toward consumers.
It's hard to imagine that we could be returning to the moon 50 years after we were there last. While it should have happened earlier, it might not happen at all by 2020 if budget cuts get in the way--unless images of the moon inspire Congress again...
Citizen Journalism is on the rise with Fox News now joining CNN in allowing ordinary people to send in news stories. It all follows what Associated Content has been doing all along--with the potential risks worth a chance at obtaining truth...
With the new Pixar movie "Up", we have a special mixture of what makes the adventure in the air genre a magical plot device. In some movies, there was a purpose to the flight--and for others, just for the sake of exploring the unknown...
Under the rule of Obama, the EPA is now at its most powerful it's ever been. With that will soon come state laws that requires the cutting of all emissions. That includes cars where many could inevitably suffer financially...
With the Tax Tea Parties history, the future may involve new ways to protest since the first one won't make much difference. With that, will future protesters turn more violent and disguise themselves as those did during the Boston Tea Party?
Americans have always stolen from the British. But when it comes to accepting overweight, plain-looking singers in the mold of Susan Boyle, American may have to depend on a Brit to make them hear the voice rather than see the body...
The Salem Film Festival in Oregon has been going only four years, but it's already attracting significant names for screenings and lectures. With the appealing ambiance of Salem, Oregon, here's a short guide to what you can experience...
It appears that Michael Crichton is about to get the same treatment given to Hemingway, Tolstoy and many other writers: Having novels published posthumously. But it seems that publishing companies are finally sensing how controversial it is...
If Leonardo DaVinci said that simplicity was the ultimate sophistication, then the internet should take heed. With Twitter wisely using that philosophy, extreme simplicity may be all over the net within the next few years...
It might seem odd to have space-based solar power suddenly come to possible fruition when it's been studied and workable for the last 40 years. But once PG&E makes it a reality by 2016, expect big business to be the same on your energy rates...
With the extreme intelligence of the Portuguese Water Dog, the Obamas picked a perfect dog for Sasha and Malia. Only, it might be better if our President himself bonded with Bo based on the Water Dog's affinity for being active with a lone master...
Phil Spector's Wall of Sound is either the most brilliant studio technique ever or the worst. Whether it was or wasn't, the era we live will ultimately decide. With more stripped-down production values being popular, it may go away like Spector has...
Before the Somali pirates story became a headliner, the U.N. passed four resolutions to amend the problem in 2008. With failure of those and a recent Navy mission, President Obama has to rely on the CIA now where things don't move fast...
Oregon almost always leads the way in controversial laws--so it isn't a surprise that the state may also lead the way in expanding electric car use on our roads. The state's Governor is adamant about it, even if the odds are still great...
With a new Oxford University study saying that overworking the brain early in life could lead to dementia or Alzheimer's, we'll have to consider what else a stressed brain could cause. It could be a burden on the younger generation...
Perhaps you heard of a new holiday that thumbed its nose at Earth Hour in March of this year. Human Achievement Hour may sound vitriolic, but it actually has possibilities--especially if joined with Earth Hour to make a stronger point...
Despite "This is Spinal Tap" being 25 this year, the mockumentary genre is really older than that. In its evolution, Christopher Guest may have taken the genre to where tragedy and comedy meet--much to the possible dismay of viewers just catching on...
While the Transcendentalist Movement taught a simpler way of life, Thoreau's "Walden" showed examples of conflict in balancing nature with the growing Industrial Revolution of the time. That balance is one of the world's biggest challenges today...
Silverton, Oregon has been respected for its blend of sophistication with small town life and affable people. Now with a possible reality show possibly happening about their transgender mayor, Stu Rasmussen, citizens are worried about possible changes...
When the book and miniseries "Band of Brothers were released, there wasn't time to focus on any one individual of Easy Company. But one of those men, Don Malarkey, has one of the most fascinating back stories and mental development in withstanding war...
Consider it a positive that American Idol won't be doing their songwriting contest this year. After a false designation of being for amateurs, it clearly was meant for professionals. And even they may not do a good job writing a song this time around...
With a 40th anniversary DVD coming in November celebrating "Sesame Street's" four decades on the air, we have a chance to put its glory years in better perspective for all generations. And it's all with a little help from Amazon.com.
When we realize the powerful people that now hail from Chicago, it might place the Windy City at the top of the list for the 2016 Olympics. But being too powerful could ultimately hurt their chances and make it difficult for the IOC...
With Life.com releasing never-before-seen photos of the Martin Luther King assassination aftermath, the mystery arises why Life Magazine withheld them. When it came to shocking photographs, Life never hesitated to publish for history's sake...
With the series finale of "ER" comes news that the public wouldn't mind seeing a reunion movie. TV history has plenty of examples where those movies went on for years--hence bringing questions why they don't get counted as official episodes...
When we hear about how warm Queen Elizabeth II is behind-the-scenes, one has to wonder whether she should give an official end to protocol during greetings. A pat on the back more than every few years would be desired by anybody...
When TCM debuted in April of 1994, there was a profound adamant attitude upon its creators to bring classic movies back to TV. After American Movie Classics stopped showing classic movies, TCM stood alone and still does...
With America making attempts to reach out to Cuba and reignite relations, listening to a little-known 1932 work by George Gershwin might help in reminding our musical connections. The "Cuban Overture" consolidated the sounds of Cuba with America...
There may never again be a time when the American populace gets another stimulus check. And its usefulness this time for those on Social Security may surprise us in what those people use the money for, financial struggle or not...
It's a wonder that hasn't been more biopics done about The Three Stooges considering they had more drama and tragedy in real life than any other comedy team. One made for ABC in 2000 played up those emotions and deserves a DVD release...
Bartering has become a new reality in America for many individuals and businesses in order to stay afloat economically. But when the IRS reminds them that it's taxable income, the trust of being a taxpayer might go toward new Tea Parties...
With all the Bossa singers/interpreters around the world, it would seem that Diana Krall would struggle to stand alone in that field. Yet she proves she's the foremost Bossa interpreter in the U.S. with her new album "Quiet Nights"...
As surprising as it is that America is currently matching the baby boom of the 1950's, there may be a complex philosophy behind it all. In theory, we shouldn't be wanting kids--yet they're becoming a respite from all the world's madness...
With Google's free, awe-inspiring and controversial mapping programs, they're now allowing us to explore Mars' surface with Google Mars. Is it inevitable, though, that something will be found by Mr. or Miss Geek that changes our worldview?
With Oregon losing the next "Twilight" sequel filming to Vancouver, B.C., the film's fans may just have to speak up when they notice a change of scenery.
Prior to the late 1960's, no Presidential candidate or President appeared on a TV show to do comedy. Richard Nixon broke the mold in 1968, though didn't stop future Presidents from doing some light comedy on TV later...
With the tragic death of Natasha Richardson from head trauma comes a new medical term we should all remember by heart: a lucid interval. Consider this one of many unusual symptoms from our brain when it deals with trauma or other ailments...
It isn't a secret to onetime fans of the magazine that Mad Magazine isn't the same as it used to be. But now that the economy is requiring them to cut back on issues, a move to the net could foster a more competitive spirit in satire again...
When actor Ron Silver died, we were reminded that Hollywood shunned this great actor because of his political shift. Now Tinseltown should consider that if they continue on the same path, it'll be equivalent to the HUAC of the 1950's...
Most of the United States has to deal with spring rain of both the light and heavy variety--and dealing with it each year can annoyingly take time. Here's some tips in how to dress decently and protect your home during spring downpours...
Have you noticed how much Bernie Madoff looked like George Washington the first day he showed up in court? That may not be coincidence as the notorious consciously or unconsciously assimilate the appearance of respected figures to gain respect...
With America's economy worsening, thoughts are developing of this country's populace rebelling and precipitating the need for martial law. If it happens, a true understanding of the people would have to take place before there's a call to arms...
When planting gardens, we frequently think we have to plant multiple vegetables to make it successful. During lean times, though, planting just a blueberry garden may be the healthiest and most diverse food you could grow...
We haven't seen a TV show since "The West Wing" delve into politics so intensely than the new NBC show "Kings" does. This time, it's an alternate-universe take on power and possibly posing eerie warnings for our current President...
Oregon's Death with Dignity law is about to have its 15th anniversary just as Washington State implements an assisted suicide law via decree of voters. But will it face the same challenges Oregon's law did before getting a supposed final word?
Income tax changes are going to be inevitable in the coming decade, and it might just affect our retirement accounts--particularly the tax-free Roth IRA. That shouldn't stop you from starting a Roth IRA.
With Jimmy Fallon becoming fortunate enough to do his "Late Night" show in NBC's legendary Studio 6B, it's a bit surprising a new late-night comedy show would want to make an attempt to override the museum-like quality of the premises...
With reports that most of the world now use cell phones, are we heading down a path of cell technology causing more threats of cancer worldwide? If so, we may have conditioned ourselves to accept illness for the sake of technological advancement...
While generally unspoken in America, bias against redheads is quite prevalent in the U.K. and other parts of Europe. That might just make all the outstanding redheads making headway in American pop culture a freed people from oppression...
Could it be that American has small colleges out there that can provide training in specific careers that have staying power? One in Washington State trains blind people in piano tuning--and graduates become fully employed...
A lot of people couldn't believe it when finding out a Spiderman musical was going to open on Broadway this year. In actuality, the story structures of our greatest superheroes mirror that of plots to dozens of classic Broadway musicals...
We tend to forget how healthful appetizers to our dinners can be. With this particular salad recipe, here's a guarantee of a salad that's easy to make and will give you the best health benefits you can acquire in your diet...
With cable costs going up and many unemployed Americans being unable to pay the bill, a super alternative is now over-the-air digital TV. The diversity of free programming there may just be better than cable in coming years...
Illegal immigrants no longer interested in coming to America proves we're living in a very strange and dangerous time. What happens, though, when Mexico's immigrants have no other place to go due to war in Mexico with the drug cartels?
It's really a miracle of conscience that there hasn't been myriad privacy lawsuits against Google and their Streetview/Latitude/Google Earth programs. Now one low-profile lawsuit may be the beginning of the legal ramifications Google could face someday...
With Conan O'Brien becoming the new host of "The Tonight Show", critics who think the show needs to stay conservative by decree of history forget how edgy it once was during a certain time period and under the reign of Johnny Carson...
There isn't a soul in America who isn't tired of being gouged by their local utility company. Now Google is trying to implement a cyber meter that would help us save money, despite utilities not gung-ho on hopping aboard to help support it...
While a lot of computer companies and other behemoths have opened retail stores to expand their profits, Microsoft is now joining the fray and taking the retail store in a new direction. It may solidify the corporate store on every block...
Despite Bollywood being on the verge of teaming up regularly with Hollywood, how the two view movie music is considerably different. The hypnotic influence of Indian music, though, could just take Hollywood back to focusing on perfection...
While long forgotten, the Academy Awards had various categories that were more specific and expansive to reflect every creative individual behind the production of a film. Running time seemed to eliminate them, even though a few should come back...
With Fox's plan this season to cut commercial time during their shows, we see the true disconnect between network execs and the viewers. In truth, viewers wouldn't mind myriad commercials if they were just done in more appealing ways...
With two new producers of the Oscars adamantly making the show different this year, it may not be necessarily better. Here's some recommendations that could either work or severely break an American tradition...
With arson laws still being stuck in an argument between mental illness and murder, Australia may just set a precedent for America. On the other hand, America usually doesn't change laws until we also have a massive and senseless loss of life...
During UK's coverage of the 1969 moon landing, a 16-hour freewheeling "Moon Party" on ITN with host David Frost took coverage of a profound event to a new level. In comparison to BBC's coverage, it was buttoned-down news vs. surreal entertainment...
Any President elected in the world with an intellectual curiosity is a blessing. Former Iranian President Mohammad Khatami developed a huge intellect and philosophy he'll soon use to challenge Ahmadinejad to take back the Presidency...
It might be perplexing why the first black man to die in the name of freedom for Colonial America doesn't get much mention in history books. The reasons are perhaps because of his murky past and a man of mixed race...
Hydrogenated peanut butter has long been a part of American life, even though it's not healthy. With the scares of salmonella, though, it may be time to look into eating natural peanut butter that's undeniably the healthiest and safest...
You'll be hearing a lot more about a stop-motion animation studio called Laika now that they've produced the immediate classic "Coraline." But it was once the studio of Claymation master Will Vinton who was kicked out against his will...
When it comes to figuring out the psychology of athletes in the mold of Michael Phelps, it can get quite complex. Nevertheless, Phelps smoking reefer might be an easy way to figure out what makes him tick and why he needs challenges in his life...
With the movie "Coraline", we see the recurrence of the parallel world device depicting our polar opposites as evil. Based on theoretical physics, though, perhaps we'll see a tale that depicts an alternate universe as utopia rather than morose...
A lot of people were expecting Steven Spielberg to release his "Lincoln" biopic by the end of this year. Now it's delayed until 2011 as Spielberg works on other projects--that brings both good and bad implications...
If you never thought an ash cloud from an erupted volcano could be labeled a natural disaster in America, you might be unpleasantly surprised as the Pacific Ring of Fire breaks up and volcanoes start erupting. Here's tips on how to cope and clean...
Are you one who's tired of seeing every movie trailer cut in a frenetic way with over-the-top sound? It may be hurting how movies are marketed, and producers should consider the power of quiet or silence in the trailer.
If you think the sitcom era is over and out of ideas, consider that a simple formula that's now being employed on CBS's "The Big Bang Theory" could be a way to bring sitcoms back to prominence.
While it's undeniable that most protest music up to present day is from liberal-minded artists, they seem to be a lot happier now that Obama is President.
The influence of Harry Potter continues to be felt as the prestigious Newbury Medal begins to award books for children that delve into dark elements.
Promising love through a love coupon might seem pointless in a time when we realize life is so short. In the broader picture of life and psychology, though, they may still be worthwhile on Valentine's Day...
Americans have proven themselves capable of surviving economic calamities. But the test isn't over yet.
Will watching the legendary "1984" Macintosh ad in the coming decade be more of a haunting experience? The reason it might be is because Apple might be a part of a real Big Brother at that point if Microsoft continues to fail...
The term "snipe" comes directly from the older era of movie theater on-screen advertising. Now it's an insider term for those obtrusive animated ads at the bottom of your TV screen and on various websites. And, yes, there could be a way to stop them...
In Oregon, a government-funded housing development for the obese may be built, much to the complaints from taxpayers who think the obese can help their condition.
The term "abundance of caution" has moved around considerably from the financial world to the world of law and now the Presidency. But its future application in everyday life could define Americans in a way that's abundantly intelligent...
Even though Microsoft's Photosynth program has been around for a little while, CNN's use of it during the Obama Inaugural changed photojournalism forever. Now we'll have to wait and see if it's used everywhere else to get a full picture of reality...
Marketing tourism in America still means using actors for the most part to show things looking rosy at whatever scenic locale. We may have to borrow from Australia, though, because they're about to use real people to reinvigorate tourism in Oz...
The child prodigy on TV sitcoms and dramas has been a bit dormant since Doogie Howser went off the air, with Lisa Simpson standing alone. Now Hilary Duff will bring the prodigy character back while we realize how many we have now in America...
The First 100 Days of a Presidency has defined many a President--except for JFK who demanded we look beyond that day mark before making hyperbolic judgments. Presidents who have big ideas almost requires us to look years ahead...
If you think digital video will only stop with Blu-Ray within the next ten years, get ready for more...a lot more. If Japan, Britain and Italy have their way, we'll see ultra high-definition going mainstream before the next decade is over...
With all the concern and complaints about geese converging at airport runways, major cities should consider designing new geese refuges as the only real solution to the problem. America already has hundreds of wildlife refuges as a good start...
The name Vince Offer sounds about as showbiz and con man as it gets. Yet this new infomercial pitchman is changing how we view the product demonstrator--and also has an interesting past that may have influenced a change in movie comedies...
We shouldn't be surprised that the TV variety show format isn't quite dead yet, despite Rosie O'Donnell slowing the evolution down. Now John Mayer may bring back the format in an unexpected way that isn't new...
Are there really too many film festivals in America now? Sundance Film Festival founder Robert Redford thinks there is, and here's some solutions as to how it could be amended to bring back a healthier balance in the world of indie film...
America has been a rich wonderland in technology for a while, with 2009 being a banner year. However, we're dealing with bad timing through a bad economy and people curbing spending. It could put the future of some amazing gadgets on indefinite hold...
We've all become too accustomed to using Wikipedia so much now for general information, it may be hard to switch to a more all-encompassing site called KGB. Then again, you can't really consolidate all information and knowledge without mistakes...
It seems that the Golden Globes and the Academy Awards have co-existed peacefully for six decades now. But with the Golden Globes becoming increasingly more popular and logical, the Oscars could start going their own way in winners...
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