The Spewker Celebrity Politics Blog

Meet the New Baltimore Celebrity Examiner

2008-12-01T03:34:00.005-05:00

Honestly, I was hoping to avoid this. Don't you just hate when you visit a blog expecting to find good stuff and instead there's this final article? A final article directing you somewhere else?

Yeah, I hate that too. Which is why I've been holding off doing this. But the truth is, I shouldn't have waited so long.

It's become too difficult to write for The Spewker and my page at Examiner.com. For that reason, this blog has been temporarily suspended effective immediately. I may eventually come to regret this decision, but time constraints leave me no other choice.

Look at it this way, I'll still be doing juicy celebrity dish, original celebrity interviews, and reporting the Baltimore-Washington celebrity scene ... just not from here. At least not for now. Maybe when life becomes less hectic and there's more time I'll be back. Could happen. Don't rule it out.

In the meantime, The Spewker will continue to publish Twitter updates and new videos from time to time, but yeah, the blog has moved here.

The Baltimore Celebrity Examiner. Has a nice ring to it, don't ya think?

Save the Cheerleader, Save the World from Hottest Tots and Celebrity Couples

2008-11-24T09:52:00.007-05:00

Forbes' Hottest Hollywood Tots is such a crock of publicity horse cocky, I want to steam myself under a hot shower for the next fifteen minutes just to loosen the dibbles.

Joel McHale said exactly what was on my mind - why in the world is Forbes magazine venturing into the world of celebrity fluffaby? Did editors throw the financial sector overboard now that America is knee deep in meltdown economics?

"Oh, we can't break even publishing financial pontifications. Let's add a celebrity toddlers hot or not contest. That'll bring in people clicking like mad."

You'd better believe I'm mad, uptight and mad's more like it. Mad that I had to click through five crappy millileters each time I wanted more information about the listed tots. Boy, Forbes' stuff must really be in the toilet to milk so much out of celebrity gossip.

So I'm ending the shennanigans right now by printing their ridiculous exercise in self-preservation, saving you, dear reader, the torture of suffering through another gazilllion of pages from hell.

10. Samantha Sheen (Denise Richards and Charlie Sheen)
9. Sean and Preston Federline (Britney and Fed-Ex)
8. David Banda (Madonna)
7. Matilda Rose Ledger (Michelle Williams and Heath Ledger)
6. Cruz Beckham (Posh and Becks)
5. Sam Alexis Woods (Tiger and Elin Woods)
4-2. Pax, Zahara, and Shiloh Jolie-Pitt (in that order)(Brangelina)
1. Suri Cruise (TomKat)

And as long as we're on the subject, I have only this to ask ... WHAT WERE THEY THINKING?

How could anyone in their right mind include tug-of-war toy David Banda but omit Kingston Rossdale? Or Johan Samuel? Or Harlow Winter Kate Madden, for that matter?

And what about the inferiority complexes foisted upon helpless and defenseless celebritots who through no fault of their own are subjected to arbitrary and capricious rejection every time they hear the name "Forbes?" It's not like these children ask to be paraded around like a traveling museum. The least we can do is feign a little respect for their privacy.

Not so when it comes to 2008's Best and Worst Celebrity Couples list. You'll also slog through a ton of advertising, but at the end of the day, won't feel any worse for the wear.

Unlike hot to trot celebritots, there's the trade-off component of choosing a profession that unfolds in the public eye. Celebrities expect and anticipate a certain amount of ogle. It's the American way, for goodness sake!

For those reasons and the fact that only one couple per family posted in the best and worst section, no spoilers about 2008's Best and Worse. Go ahead, get your hands dirty.

I won't tell if you won't.

Scary Obsessed Fan Rattles Brad Pitt on Oprah

2008-11-20T21:44:00.004-05:00

(photo courtesy of LaLateNews)

Yesterday, I got a long hard look at myself in the TV set. It was not by any means a pretty sight.

Brad Pitt returned to the set of Oprah plugging the Christmas Day release of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, a movie about a New Orleans man who ages backwards. I hear the special effects are to die for. Heck, the movie was in post-production for almost a year.

Aside from styling reminiscent of the late Clark Gable, Pitt filled the studio with the twinkle of Hollywood stardust, what I call the magic of Hollywood. He’s a person, yes, like everyone else, but with killer good looks and notable acting talent. I hardly ever watch daytime television, but this was one show I wanted to see as it aired.

That Oprah, I have to hand it to her. She’s now peppering celebrity interviews with home audience questions via Skype. These are not your grandmother’s cheesy call-ins with background pictures but real time webcam "I see you, you see me" exchanges. Skype definitely made the show more engaging. One bride-to-be appeared in her bedroom with a bed full of family and friends.

Top of the heap in clout and earning power, Pitt stands toe to toe with the greats, actors admired for craft and popularity not necessarily due to peer recognition, but for opening movies and resonating with a crowd. He’s a big fish in a huge pond glutted with wannabes. Everyone wants a piece of him no matter how those pieces are derived.

The Q and A ran rather smoothly until Christina from Ontario questioned Pitt about his body tattoos. At that point, the exchange turned on its head.

(video may be removed due to copyright and if so, don’t count on a replacement)

In the first place, Christina knew way too much about Pitt for comfort, like prey studied by stalker before ambush. Clearly, Pitt became very uncomfortable, refusing to divulge any personal information or put his tats on display. It was comical, really, in a "Lady, who are you and why do you know so much about my ice man tattoo?" kind of way. Then suddenly, it felt kind of scary. Poor Christina, I could see she felt it too.

At that moment, I glimpsed my reflection. Figuratively speaking of course, but no less startling. I too feed off Hollywood minutiae, petty details of lives steeped in fantasy glamour. What’s the harm in wanting to see a decorated body part? Why even decorate if not to show off?

As Pitt lamented the ever present din of paparazzi, as well as fences and walls he would rather remove but requires for privacy, I too wanted the inside scoop. As if answering Christina’s question might reveal the essence of this movie star’s shine, I really wanted to know about his tats. So did Oprah, though immediately after gentle prodding she backed down.

Despite being offensive or intrusive, Pitt owed a better answer to his fans. He chose acting for his livelihood and should expect people crossing the line. Without fans who feed off his star power, he’s like any other bit player on Broadway.

On the other hand, I can’t imagine what it must be like to live in a fish bowl. The constant presence of cameras and strangers approaching wherever one goes must be unnerving. Can a fan’s desire to connect go too far?

At the end of the day, none of it matters, gossip tidbits or glitterati lives. Hearing Pitt speak about his children, life with Angie, or his Benjamin Buttons co-star, the fabulous Cate Blanchett, another guest on the show, won’t change the world or cure cancer. It’s entertainment like a good book or a day at the races, nothing more than fleeting fancy to pass the time.

Bedheaded Winona Ryder Falls Ill on Trans-Continental Flight

2008-11-20T04:58:00.008-05:00

Willowy "never can seem to get her act together" Winona Ryder was rushed on a stretcher to Hillingdon Hospital in West London, England after passing out aboard British Airways. The flight was en route to Heathrow Airport from LAX.

When it became clear a female passenger -- presumably Ryder -- "required medical attention," the flight crew requested priority landing. Ryder's publicist, Mara Buxbaum, said the actress was taken to the hospital only as a precaution and quickly released.

They can sanitize this one all they like and not convince me Ryder wasn't doped up on drugs. Pictures snapped at LAX show her clad from head to toe in black hiding sunglasses-obscured eyes. Some paparazzo managed to penetrate the barrier, revealing a tenuous and frail looking Ryder.

Daily Mail surmises an overdose of anti-anxiety medication, pointing to Ryder's well-established hatred for air travel. I'd say that's par for the course.

British Air doesn't call ahead for priority landing unless a passenger is seriously ill. Reportedly, Ryder fell unconscious while sitting down, slumping forward in her seat until help arrived. That's a far cry from the publicist's description of a woman in good health.

Clearly, the surrounding circumstances point to more than a brief illness. Ryder looked fragile and unhinged.

Instead of covering up the likely nature of Ryder's "illness," her publicist should be contacting producers of Celebrity Rehab.

Time for Joe Lieberman to Stop Straddling

2008-11-18T16:21:00.004-05:00

Rejoice! Sanity has been restored to Washington.

Senate Democrats demonstrated admirable ability to move beyond party pettiness. Senator Joe Lieberman, vocal supporter of Republican Presidential Nominee John McCain, will keep his chairmanships of the Homeland Services and Governmental Affairs Committees.

And in a gesture of empowerment to its more liberal factions, Senate Majority Leaders removed Lieberman from the Environment and Public Works Committee, a mere wrist slap yet unmistakable sign of the times.

But let me get something straight. Lieberman, the Democrat running mate of Al Gore in the 2000 presidential election turned Independent in a 2006 bid to keep his Senate seat, remains a member of the Connecticut Democratic State Central Committee as well as a registered Democrat?

No wonder influential Connecticut Democrats are gunning to kick him out.

Politicians shouldn’t be allowed to govern as Independents while continuing to register with an opposing party. It’s like polygamy, or in this case bigamy, with Connecticut Democrats getting bitch slapped whenever Daddy plugs the other side.

I’m all for liberty, independent thinking, and voting one’s conscious, but when those actions threaten the agenda of your registered party, it’s time to move on. Willingly or with a friendly shove.

It’s time for Lieberman to stand up for political integrity, not the self-serving politics we all so desperately wish to leave behind.

Some Barack Obama Firsts I Don't Want to Know

2008-11-18T00:01:00.000-05:00

Barack Obama's historic win of the presidency was more than just an iconic moment in American history. It was a vindication of our core belief that anything is possible in the home of the free and the brave.

When wife Michelle, and daughters Malia and Sasha stand on the Capitol steps this January 20, 2009, beaming with pride as the first American of African descent -- President-Elect Barack Obama, their husband and father -- places his hand on the bible, swearing an oath of allegiance to the United States Constitution to uphold fundamental principles of fairness and liberty, the whole world will take stock of America's historic leap forward as we, the people, at last turn the page on one of the hardest fought victories in recent memory.

Still, I am humbly reminded that with every silver lining comes a cloud. You see, up until the precise moment of Obama's historic swearing in ceremony (and perhaps for a wee bit after), the entire world must endure a heavy burden indeed.

An unprecedented barrage of firsts.

The first time a major American newspaper endorses the Democratic Party's nominee for president.

The first time a man with African roots wins a presidential election.

The first time that man, Barack Obama, takes a top secret security level tour of the White House.

The first time the transition of a U.S. presidency is transparently documented on the Internet.

The first press conference of Barack Obama.

And on and on she goes. I'm not sure how much more I can stand. Come on, admit it. You're getting sick of it too.

I imagine there are will be many firsts for the new President-Elect, his family and for lack of a better word, entourage, but do we have to hear about every single one in mind-numbing detail? Here are a few I'd rather not:

-The first time Oprah Winfrey flies her entire studio audience to Washington, D.C. for the inauguration.

-The first time any type of stereotypical ethnic food is served on the White House menu.

-The first time a trash can basketball hoop is installed in the Oval Office.

-The first time Will.i.am and Obama Girl are invited to an official State Dinner.

-The first time an African-American White House staff member is mistaken for a member of the President's family.

-The first time President Obama and the First Lady rumple the sheets in the Lincoln Bedroom.

Okay. Okay. No flames. I know I went overboard on those last ones. Let's hope all the news outlets exercise greater restraint.

Top Ten Most Likely Types to Create Obnoxious Motrin Advertisement

2008-11-17T00:01:00.000-05:00

Rather than nervously await the almost inevitable pink-slip, some advertising crony up and committed career suicide. Ah, just in time for the holidays.

I mean, who else would create a Motrin ad campaign vilifying baby carriers as hernia inducing torture chambers causing cuckoo bird crazy eyes to sprout on their child-cradling fashion victims?

Only a person without enough guts to ask for a long vacation. Or these top ten most likely types to create an obnoxious Motrin ad:

10. Self-hating embittered shrew who despises children, their cutesy noises, and smelly diaper leaks.

9. Neanderthal caveman from the popular GEICO ads.

8. Womanizing, power lusting, money grubbing playah with a madonna-slut complex.

7. New intern whose only creative talent is pleasuring the boss.

6. Aging hunchback who had her tubes tied about an hour after giving birth.

5. Perfectionist type-A super-achiever who brings home the bacon, fries it up in the pan, and never lets you forget you're a man.

4. Doormat push-over who can be talked into anything, including wearing a sling carrier to hold someone else's twenty-five pound baby during a trip to the mall.

3. Self-absorbed socially clueless ADHD person too busy maneuvering an unforgiving and perilous world.

2. Hermaphrodite.

1. Man living at home with his mother, seven cats, and one helluva post-nasal drip.

Is it too late to short sell JNJ?

Start a 401K and Hope for the Best

2008-11-11T07:23:00.004-05:00

Funny, I was thinking exactly the same thing last night while trying to balance my checkbook.

Problem was, the amount of money I have to balance wouldn't fill a kid's piggy bank. The recession is stretching its boney fingers around my neck like a creepy unrelenting death grip. Had to drink a strong cup of java just to distract myself.

Seeing kitty contemplate her windfall evoked a good giggle, reminding me once again the best things in life truly are free.

Neiman Marcusgate Threatens Future Candidacy of Sarah Palin

2008-11-10T15:36:00.008-05:00

In the days following Election 2008's historic outcome, scads of Conservatives publicly bemoan rabid personal attacks against Republican V.P. nominee Sarah Palin and the failure of Senator John McCain, her vanquished running mate, to personally silence detractors.

They can't understand how McCain could defend his Democratic opponent, Barack Obama, at a campaign rally, yet allow what's considered malicious gossip to flourish against Governor Palin.

Well, I very well may have happened upon the most plausible explanation to date.

Republicans Impalin'

2008-11-06T13:54:00.003-05:00

I am not one to gloat.

But can you imagine what would have happened if the American people were duped into sending McCain-Palin to the White House?

She's Got Election 2008 Coverage Eyes

2008-11-04T03:06:00.007-05:00

Dateline nprbloggers:

Where in the world is CherylT? Live blogging the election, silly. I'll be there all day. So, click and refresh, refresh, refresh.

It's going to be a bumpy night.

Wassup Video Revisited

2008-11-03T03:07:00.002-05:00

My how times change.

A mere two years (give or take -- the second video says 8 years but I think that's a reference to the Bush Administration) between the first Wassup video and Wassup 2008 have seen intensified fighting in Iraq, collapse of the housing market, escalating rates of foreclosure, rampantly inflated gas prices, marked downturn in consumer spending, a notable increase in unemployment rates, meltdown on Wall Street, federal bank take overs, and decreasing values for the stock market and 401Ks.

Oh, and did I mention the $700M bailout for rich people?

No need to get pithy. Someone gunning for Obama-Biden made one of the funniest videos of the campaign season. Compare and contrast - you'll see what I mean.

Help for Undecided Voters

2008-11-03T00:39:00.007-05:00

Thank gawd, the mud-slinging, terrorist-mongering, race-and-gender card playing, never-ending 2008 presidential election is about to end. Seems like political contests are starting earlier and earlier. Before you know it, we'll be knee deep in rhetoric for the off-year congressional races.

Election 2008 can't end soon enough for me, although don't miss my live blog on Election Day direct from Washington, D.C. Up to the minute results, live entertainment, and announcements as they occur straight from NPR studios.

I also found just the thing for all you undecideds and fenceys inclined to change your mind inside the voting booth. A sneak peek at the heartland, the real hockey moms and joe six packs who won't be pulling the lever for Obama-Biden. Hand-waving, cancer stick-puffing, hog-riding compatriots for America.

Watch more free videos

Is this the kind of thinking pointing your support in the wrong direction? Sounds downright comical when it comes direct from the horse's patoot.

Live Blogging Election 2008 Direct from NPR Studios

2008-10-30T00:12:00.045-04:00

Dateline nprbloggers nprbloggers

Woo-hoo! It's official. The Spewker will be live blogging the presidential election direct from NPR World Headquarters in Washington, D.C. on election night. And I couldn't be any more excited!!

Okay. That's not exactly true. I could be more excited. For instance, I could start jumping on the couch and screaming at the top of my lungs about how much I love a country that lets an obscure unheralded blogger like me play political pundit on the most important night of the year. But then, what's the point? Pulling a Tom Cruise is already so done and tired it's cliche. Besides, it's no fun to go completely bonkers without a live audience to appreciate the level to which I could completely lose it.

I don't think my little family qualifies as an audience. Not yet, anyway.

So, join me here in this very spot on election night. Bookmark it if you have to. This article will be regularly updated beginning at approximately 8:00 p.m. on November 4th and continuing until they've called a winner. I'll have all the election news that's fit to print and maybe some that isn't. You might laugh. You might cry. You might even see a wee bit of video.

Because live blogging is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get.

Nov 4th 12:23 a.m. - Drat. I may not be able to sleep tonight. My inbox is brimming with press information, NPR World Headquarters PR, NPR correspondent bios, guest blogger guidelines, specs on next day coverage, and quite frankly, my head is spinning.

Going over everything now to avoid having a cow on my way to Union Station. Or maybe I'll drive in and take my chances with parking. Can't be any worse than the 4th of July.

For anyone tuning in early, you won't believe all the social media these NPR people have cobbled together. An election blog, a streaming Twitter report, an unverified voter reporting map, a voting problems aggregator, and an extremely impressive press room wiki -- I'm still navigating all the links.

Wow! CurrentTV is also covering the election using VoteReport. Their program starts at 9 a.m. That's less than nine hours away! Advocacy groups, news reporters, and anyone with a gripe about the election can tune in early and monitor these reports, hopefully do something to fix any broken situation rather than just sit there and grumble.

I can see it now. By the time I reach NPR Headquarters, I'll be running on pure adrenaline. One hundred twenty people doing live coverage with live mikes broadcasting our every word, sniffle, and sound bite. OMG!

I can't wait.

2:35 a.m. - I just found the coolest vote tracking map ever. It's interactive. Can't wait to see how it tracks the returns. Just one caveat: It's from FoxNews. Not that there's anything wrong with that.

2:58 a.m. - Dixville Notch, NH is the first jurisdiction to register a win for Obama-Biden. With 100% turnout, no less. Hoo-ah! FoxNews map hasn't changed one iota.

Come on, peeples. Get out there and vote!!

2:00 p.m. - Still haven't left Baltimore. My scheduled dentist appointment took longer than I thought. Such a pity too. These lovely ladies were standing outside of a local elementary school willing to give rides to the polls.

Sadly, I didn't get their video up in time. The free rides ended at 1:00 p.m. But these women are such a dedicated bunch, I decided to give them the extra recognition they deserve.

Doing my part, however ineptly.

Earlier today I happened upon my friend and relative Greg G. Greg is shaking up the election with his own exit poll at Pikesville Senior High (video to post a little later). Follow Greg's unique election coverage with video, live updates, and news at Baltimore Jewish.com.

4:30 p.m. - Leaving for D.C (finally)! Just might miss traffic if I hurry up. Darn computer. Needs disk space, no time to compress. YouTube video of Sandy Rosenberg hot off the presses (finally). Oh no. Must be a conspiracy. Even YouTube is against me. The video didn't load. At least that's what my YouTube account is showing.

Taking an additional laptop to NPR just in case my world weary steed won't free up ram. Crossing all body parts. Wishing for the best.

Approx. 6:30 p.m. - Dateline NPR studios. I've arrived. Only took about two hours down the parkway in intermittent rain. And the most confusing split in Massachusetts Avenue right where the NPR building stands. Let's just say, I'm lucky to have set up and to have made it here on time.

Still getting to know my table, a small set up in the corner of the room. Mostly comprised of NPR employees. In the middle sit the majority of tonight's bloggers, a fine mix of tech, politics, and social media. But since I'm trying to work off two computers at the same time, I thought it best not to take up too much extra space.

On the way over the radio talking heads debated The Fairness Doctrine, early voting in Maryland, exit poll returns, etc. Polls are closing in some key states. According to the TV news Obama seems to be leading in Kentucky, "very very early in the game." But don't let that discourage all you McCain supporters. According to Fox News, democracy requires that everybody vote. Hurry up! In some parts of the country you still have time.

Most of the TV and radio pundits are saying the election turning point was the September meltdown of Wall Street. But I disagree. I say it was McCain's selection of Sarah Palin as running mate. Good for Conservatives, bad for Independents and disaffected Democrats. At one point in this election I could have gone either way, but with the selection of Palin, well, that was the final straw.

Appx. 7:00 p.m. - They're starting to call Kentucky for McCain. But still too early, although about 8,000 votes are in. Vermont called (again early) for Obama. If so, McCain now leads in the electoral college.

Mark Warner projected winner in Virginia for U.S. Senate.

Appx. 7:45 p.m. - Just came back from the studio tour given by Amy Schriefer of All Songs Considered. Three people at a time, I wanted to be one of the first volunteers. Hopefully, if I ever get today's Sandy Rosenberg video to load, I'll have whatever video I was able to get of the studio posted.

Ah, finally (fer real this time). Ladies and gentlemen, Delegate Sandy Rosenberg:

Appx 8:00 p.m. - Yes we can!! NPR just called a slew of states for Obama. Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Illinois, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and D.C. They are saying that Ohio, Pennsylvania and Florida are must wins for McCain. But now McCain is the projected loser in Pennsylvania, although called the winner in Oklahoma, Kentucky, Alabama, South Carolina, and Tennesee.

And now they're projecting Elizabeth Dole as a loser in her election race. Can you believe that? No more Liddy Dole! The horror.

Some grumbles in the blogger room about NPR projecting Pennsylvania way too early for Obama. No other news organization is making that call ... except ... Al Jezeera (credit to someone at the big blogger table -- didn't see who). Very funny.

Can hear cheers in the background of the current NPR broadcaster. Seems like a lot of people are psyched about those early calls for Obama. About 170 electoral college votes. Obama is almost half way there.

Colorado polls are still open apparently. NPR is broadcasting from a McCain support center. The lady says they are still calling people to get out the vote. So if you're a voter in Colorado and you still haven't voted....what in the world are you waiting for?

Appx 8:30 p.m. - Whew! NPR is no longer out on limb projecting PA for Obama. MSNBC and CBS News are now on board. If these folks are correct, it's a very big loss for John McCain.

Appx 8:50 p.m. - Obama-Biden headquarters are starting to heat up with excited supporters. John Dickerson reports from Chicago that there are six spotlights pointed to the sky, "presumably preparing for Obama's ascent to heaven." Can't tell if he's a supporter or detractor. Actually, I think I recall his earlier broadcast of a vote for Obama, but don't hold me to that.

Projected 80% turnout for voting. Hmph! I thought it would be way higher.

Now projecting Michigan, New York, Rhode Island, Minnesota and Wisconsin for Obama, North Dakota and Wyoming for McCain.

Appx 9:10 p.m. - Washington Post has a nice stream. They're refusing to call PA for Obama, probably out of an abundance of caution. Their team of pundits are now saying that the only way for McCain to hold on is to win all the red states for Bush in the last election plus a swing state. That's a lot to live up to, even for McCain. I don't think he can pull it off. It's 9:10 p.m. and I'm calling this election for Obama.

You heard it here first.

Georgia called for McCain. Big swath of red in the south. And now there's some red states showing on top of the map as well. Wyoming and North Dakota for McCain. There must be some kind of correlation between the people living in those big country states and the south. Far be it from me to suggest the commonalities. I'll leave that to you to figure out.

Appx 9:25 - The camera guys are here. Popping pictures all over the place. Maybe I'll download some and post here.

In the meantime, even The Washington Post has called PA for Obama. And NPR is calling Ohio for Obama. Richard Cohen from The Washington Post says this election is a vindication for Lyndon Johnson. Who would have ever thought the civil rights movement would forever go down in history as his baby.... Surely not Martin Luther King.

Appx 9:40 p.m. We're having an amazing round table discussion about the election and what a historic Obama-Biden victory will mean. Phrases like "fruition of a dream cut short in the late 1960s," "Americans voting for President based on the country they want to live in," "wanting a President who's smarter than me," and "Conservative voters hijacking the Republican party" are piquing my interest in another video. Still waiting for the NPR Studios composite to load. But if my computer speeds up, I may be able to post a video capturing the spirit of an impending Obama victory.

10:55 p.m. - Washington Post put Louisiana in McCain's column. Big duh.

10:10 p.m. - New Mexico called for Obama. After almost an hour of downloading 22 minutes of the NPR studio tour, the program malfunctioned. Can you believe that? No? Neither can I.

Eh, not much going on here really. A few bloggers have left, a sizeable amount are on break. Pundits reduced to how John McCain will save face and maintain his reputation.

More on the "I can't believe that just happened" front - while I was out at the buffet, I heard an NPR program where they were discussing our round table "fruition of a dream" discussion. Coincidence? I think not.

10:45 p.m. - Just wrapped my video with Terrance Heath - an in depth discussion about race and religion and recreation of our round table discussion. Good stuff!

Virginia just called for Obama. Hoo-ah!

10:55 p.m. - Colorado called for Obama by The Washington Post, but NPR is still staying neutral. Big shocker of the night - Virginia called for Obama and North Carolina still too close to call. And talk about Florida... 83% precincts reporting with 49% for McCain and 51% for Obama. Looks like tonight's story will be Virginia and Ohio. And "as Ohio goes, so goes the nation..."

11:00 p.m. CNN calls the election for Obama! California tipped the election. You're witnessing history!

11:45 p.m. Computer froze. But I'm back. Have some great photos of the blogger room. Here's the scene during McCain's concession speech.

11:50 p.m. Barack Obama is expected to speak at the top of the hour. Just checked my email. A bunch of links from the other NPR live bloggers. Check out their articles:

writeslikeshetalks
Matador Pulse
siteview
arstechnia

Okay - Obama has taken the stage in Chicago. I need to hear this.

Nov. 5th 12:15 a.m. Obama just wrapped his speech. Hurrying to upload on YouTube. NPR wants to pack up and go home.

12:35 a.m. - Last video of the night. Yes we can! Thanks, NPR.

Over and out.

Socialism for the Upper Class

2008-10-28T05:27:00.002-04:00

The reality of McCain trickle down economics.

[Source]

Texas McCain Campaign Worker Tries to Start Riots

2008-10-24T17:52:00.004-04:00

"B" stands for "bubblehead of the third kind."

Okay, people, the riots are postponed until voting day. It was all an ugly hoax.

Now go back to your Family Guy reruns.

Rams Head Against Brick Hanson Concert Wall

2008-10-24T17:00:00.002-04:00

A week ago Wednesday night was uncharacteristically warm here in Charm City. The Power Plant hopped with outdoor activity as the pulse of the underground beat palpably live. Rams Head Live, to be precise.

Not getting cute, simply setting the mood.

Only a first floor performance according to one red-shirted security guard who preferred to remain anonymous 'cause he's liking his job. In other words, the expected crowd wouldn't need second or third floor accommodations. Still, a sizable cabal of loyalist groupies, hard core locals, and some curious sprinkled in for good measure mingled on the floor in anticipation.

Just out of reach backstage chilled the brothers Hanson.

Oh yeah, I tried using verbal press cred to work my way past the guard (a new job with better street cred remains on my horizon), but the folks down at Rams Head stood their ground. Beware the lone blogger sniffing for celebrity fodder. Mike their blond-haired customer service rep was so incredibly nice, accommodating, and surprisingly professional, it was impossible to hate. No matter how hard I tried to wheedle face time with Hanson ... with their manager ... even Rams Head's media liaison, their man Mike would not budge, yet always with a smile.

Neither would Mark the media manager, nor anyone from Hanson's entourage.

And so, I did what any self-respecting "came downtown in the middle of the week to be treated like crappola" blogger would do in the face of unyielding opposition.

I spun a story from whole cloth.

That's right. This article isn't an earth rattling interview about Hanson's charity work in Africa. It's not an expose about the group taking matters into their own hands -- kicking record producing honchos to the curb -- to make music on their own terms. It's not about how they transformed their former bebop style to a more melodic "new music rock" sound. It's not even a poetic comparison between them and that hugely popular hippie band, The Grateful Dead, who likewise would not bow to the powers that be, playing towns across America as the faithful followed closely behind.

Nah. Because of sticky sweet Mike, and roadblock Mark, and husky yellow-shirted guard guy this article is about fresh faced Jamie Gibbons, a likable 24-year old fan who's been addicted to Hanson since the tender age of 11.

Jamie rattled off names of songs like Where's the Love, Crazy Beautiful, Penny 'n Me, and This Time Around to exemplify Hanson's maturation. Too bad I have yet to indulge, but that's just because I'm old and decrepit.

"I liked them at first because they were cute, but now it's different," Jamie professed. "I'm insanely impressed with the dedication to their music. They push forward and because of that, they're one of my favorite bands."

When asked for the name of another favorite band, Jamie coyly identified boyfriend Brian, the bass player of Shane Hines and the Trance. Later, out of nowhere, Brian appeared exuding ultimate cool. We ended up exchanging pleasantries and information, along with my enthusiastic agreement to write about his band's unconfirmed D.C. concert should it ever come to pass. Sure, I'll monitor the band's myspace for updates. Maybe by then I can actually work my new job and not rely on the kindness of strangers for celebrity face time.

Brian also mentioned Hanson's free download which explains why the brothers dropped out of the mainstream. Many have no idea their band is still around. I'd say they need better publicity. The crowd is less than I would expect for such a big name, but Brian thought it was a pretty good showing considering they're appearing in Baltimore in the middle of the week.

The brothers are now older, married, and parents themselves which might explain the switch from bebop to a more serious genre. No way to know for certain, but that's the rumor I'm floating around.

Hey, all I asked for was 5 minutes backstage. You'd think someone would want to comply.

When Hanson hit the stage at a quarter past, the huddled masses went wild. Those at the very front nearly hopped up there with them, but no one seemed to mind, not even red-shirted guard guy. Okay, so my video is gawd awful, I came too late for a good spot.

What it lacks in sound quality, it makes up for in production.

Sesame Street Meets Pennsylvania Avenue

2008-10-22T00:01:00.001-04:00

Exposing bottom feeders of the Bush Administration uncovers unexpected juicy conjecture.

Raunchiest Celebrity in Washington Regurgitated

2008-10-21T00:01:00.003-04:00

Don't understand how personal matters can derail coverage of local events, but once again the beast has reared its ugly kisser.

This beauty sat in my editing bin for over a month. Yowza! I really am behind keeping up with the times. But couldn't let the 15th Annual Funniest Celebrity in Washington roll without a nod. Thankfully, recent developments have enhanced its relevance.

Last year's fundraiser drew pointed appreciation for runners-up, Pennsylvania Senator Arlen Specter and the lesser-known Ana. Continuing the "aw ya got robbed" tradition of underdog love, vlogger extraordinaire James Kotecki got his share of laps for a raunchy take on Election 2008.

Winner Mike Huckabee, Governor of Arkansas and former presidential contender, must have bribed someone for the title 'cause let's face it, Kotecki wiped the floor with Huck's routine. He even scored extra brownie points for non-partisan telling it like it is. Note these deleted lyrics from Kotecki's act:

Palin is the Governor of Alaska/There's just one question I gotta ask her/ She's got a bang'n body that we all want to hit/Does that negate the fact that she don't know sh**?

Speaking of dope raps about Palin, last Saturday's SNL Weekend Update kicked Kotecki's initiative up a notch. A sketch likely to live in the annals of SNL folklore featuring ready-to-pop Amy Poehler, Alaskan themed dancers and co-anchor Seth Myers bopping with the real Sarah Palin bore more than just a passing resemblance to its raunchier predecessor.

If only Kotecki could have foreseen the comedic boost of hilariously funny backup, he might have walked off with this year's crown. Food for thought as local competitors gear up for next year.

Prince William Unrecognizable, Powell's Endorsement Undeniable, Lohan's Tan Unreliable and Mo' Gossip

2008-10-20T02:59:00.013-04:00

It was a night of douchebag debauchery for the future King of England. Not on William Wales' end, mind you, but the idiot bodyguards who supposedly kept him from fraternizing with Queen Xtina. At some point, His Highness was recognized and given court before setting out with Prince Harry on a week long South African motorbike race for charity. I don't know who snapped this romantic memento of the Prince's glitterati rendezvous sans hubby Jordan Bratman, but that's the most photogenic Christine Aguilera has looked in months.

Actor Alan Cumming recalls washing away his disappointment over 2004 election night result with handstands and trannies. Today, he fears possible revolution in the event of a similar outcome this November.

Respected GOP stalwart Colin Powell finally announced his endorsement for president and it's .... Democrat Barack Obama. Surprise! Meanwhile, the McCain Campaign somehow persuaded CNN to scrub its report of the Palin family's involvement in the Alaskan Independence Party. Media censorship knows no boundaries.

Like "cuddling up to a piece of gristle," claimed Guy Ritchie in describing love-making with soon to be ex-wife Madonna. Ritchie blamed the material girl's obsession with exercise and Kabbalah for sex life interruptus, some draughts lasting as long as 18 months.

Foo Fighters front man David Grohl too chicken to dedicate song Everlong to Sarah Palin? That's the rumor being floated after the band protested the McCain Campaign's use of song My Hero. Grohl appeared at a private video gamer event where he almost segued from a Palin reference to a dedication, then quickly substituted "... the Republicans" as recipients of his affection.

Fake tan malfunction alert. Calling all hosers. Can't explain why this non-news item made today's cut. Must be the lure of Lindsay Lohan's naked two-toned legs, although from the looks of strategically placed stocking holes, the cover-up doesn't seem nearly as garish.

Echoing Alec Baldwin's empty threat to leave the U.S. in the event of a George Bush presidency, Tina Fey claims she'll leave the planet if the McCain-Palin ticket wins the election. Exactly how the 30 Rock star plans to handle the unthinkable is between her and doppelganger Palin.

Obama Buck Supporters Drink Racist Kool-Aid to Survive

2008-10-20T01:32:00.008-04:00

"Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!"

Finally, the Chaffey Community Republican Women's newsletter published by apparent racist Diane Fedele confirms what Obama supporters have known all along.

Inherently bigoted Americans don't support Barack Obama not because they consider him one of the most liberal representatives in the U.S. Senate, not because they harbor political views diametrically opposed to his, not because his associates are of questionable character, not because of unsubstantiated accusations of alleged improprieties, not because of his supposed lack of experience, and not even because they incorrectly believe him to be a Muslim.

No, Diane Fedele and her ilk don't want Senator Obama to become president because of the color of his skin. Pure and simple, they don't want darkies running the White House, especially not that scary wife of his, Michelle. No angry black women at our State dinners, eh Ms. Fedele?

And don't try pulling the wool over anybody's eyes with some lame excuse about random food items. Your fellow GOP-minded Americans have already condemned your pathetic illustrations, depictions that are nothing more than negative racial stereotyping, the kind decent men and women have been fighting to eradicate for decades.

Despite Fedele's reported apology, vocal Obama supporters have loosely organized an outrage campaign. Last time I looked, they were calling for bombardment of Fedele's email and any other means of communication. I'm not an avid supporter of censorship, but this is one time I'd like to see the haters go down.

We may be in the midst of the most important election in our collective lifetimes and these nimrods want to use race as their guide? Shame on Diane Fedele, the Chaffey Community Republican Women's group, and all other haters who base important decisions on such nonsense.

You people are the warts on the bottom feeders sucking pond scum to survive.

Hairdo Horriblus Giving Fashion a Bad Name

2008-10-20T00:01:00.000-04:00

Runways can't get enough of them and now celebrities are rapidly joining their ranks. Continuing the Amy Winehouse trend of hairdo horriblus, follicle follies are taking root across the pond and beyond.

Okay, my puns need work. But so do unpalatable updos, hair accessories with no business being seen in public, and styles that haven't seen the light of day since 1969.

Consider Victoria Beckham's latest roadkill pixie. The look is positively revolting and I don't mean that in a good way. No idealistic counter-movements here. More like get back to the drawing board and splurge on hair extensions. Halle Berry Posh is not.

Just thinking about the endless possibilities of more monkey see monkey do made my heart go pitter-pat. Imagine these hilarious reverberations.

Victoria Beckham

Paris Hilton

Sienna Miller

Whoopi Goldberg

Madonna

Donald Trump

Incredibly silly, right? No more than the real thing. These are not -- I repeat NOT -- the latest looks for Halloween.

Amy Winehouse

Alan Cumming

Abbey Clancy

Adele

Yvonne Hoelzel

On second thought, that last one would make a fabu Marie Antoinette.

Top Ten (Plus Five) Catch Phrases of Election 2008

2008-10-17T02:48:00.008-04:00

In the waning days of Election 2008, there has never been a greater need to settle the score.

Terrorist ties? Sex with lobbyists? Heavens no, I'm referring to catch phrases.

That's right, those nuanced nuggets that summarize a dramatic or hilarious turn of events in the race for the presidency. Whether a word, phrase or complete sentence, a single utterance conjures up vibes. For good or for bad, they define a campaign. What went wrong, what went right, it's all there between the lines.

Vote for your favorite or suggest your own. Whichever way the election goes, you can still play a part in picking a winner.

1. The one
2. That one
3. The original maverick
4. Rock star
5. Hockey mom
6. Joe six pack
7. Lipstick on a pig
8. Joe the plumber
9. Troopergate
10. My Muslim faith
11. Words are just words
12. Yes we can
13. Change
14. My friend
15. What is it exactly that the VP does?

Beastie Boys Rock for Barack

2008-10-17T00:40:00.006-04:00

Taking the phrase "rock the vote" to a whole new level, The Beastie Boys have added three additional dates to their performance schedule in an effort to get out the vote.

Lucky ticket holders in Charlotte, NC, Richmond, VA, Youngstown, OH, St. Paul, MN, and Milwaukee, WI will get polling site and early voting information along with a rocking good time, including various guest performances from the likes of Norah Jones, Sheryl Crow, Jack Johnson, Ben Harper, Crosby & Nash, Santogold, and Tenacious D.

'We are going to do a few shows in hopes that we can remind people to vote,' the Beastie Boys said in a joint statement, adding that they are endorsing Sen. Barack Obama. 'This election is too important, too much is at stake to stay at home. We hope that you can come out, have a nice night, dance, sing, get your freak on, and then wake up the next morning and get everyone that you possibly can to get out and vote.'

Yeah, well, let's hope all those fans don't party too hardy. Otherwise, no one will be getting their "freak on" for Barack at the polls.

Wisely, the boys gave everyone at least a day to shake off the inevitable hangover.

[Source]

Mark Wahlberg says shopped, George Michael is dropped, Robyn gets popped, and Other Celebolitics

2008-10-13T02:44:00.010-04:00

Once again, proudly providing a cacophony of celebolitics, the weekend roundup is back.

Andy Samberg's best Dr. Doolittle impersonation has Mark Wahlberg's fur in a huff. On the bright side, Barky Bark probably won't have to turn down any more SNL guest host invitations.

Is Britney Spears channeling Sarah Palin as dominatrix? You be the judge.

Proving bare naked breasts are indeed beautiful, lip engorged Brangelina debuts Angie's nursing photos in the November issue of W.

Who exactly is Swedish pop singer Robyn? Whoever made this ding-dong think she could dis Madonna and live to tell about it needs an immediate refresher course in Peon 101.

For a saucy old broad, Cloris Leachman sure gets around. First sashaying her way to super stardom on DWTS, now recently named Grand Marshall for the 2009 Rose Bowl Parade. Is there anything outside this grand old dame's comfort zone?

The Brit Awards has reportedly dropped embattled pop star George Michael from its short list of lifetime achievement award contenders after his recent drug bust for cocaine and marijuana possession. I suppose all those lurid bathroom stall encounters didn't matter.

The McCain campaign must be going down in flames. Couldn't have been more than two weeks ago this late night talk show host sliced and diced the good Gentleman from Arizona.

Singer Leona Lewis just said no to animal product promotion. PETA's World's Sexiest Vegetarian refused a cool one million pounds to open a sale at Harrods, claiming the sale of such goods constitutes animal cruelty.

Disney's Bambi has been named top tear-jerker of all time and credited with turning Sir Paul McCartney into a lifelong vegetarian. Becoming somewhat outspoken in his old age, the cute Beatle recently launched a McDonald's boycott and issued a new album with lyrics trashing ex-wife Heather Mills.

R.I.P. Eileen Herlie. There was a time when my world revolved around the Fargates and that hussy Erica Kane.