CHICAGO is a great city to live and visit. But a friend of mine from overseas shared this documentary with me yesterday. In this recently produced video, Ross Kemp exposes the serious problem with heroin addiction, not only within Chicago’s inner city, but in “Middle America” suburban neighborhoods.
My friends first comment was “this video sure is bad for tourist who are thinking of visiting Chicago”. So I watched this incredible series and was shocked to see Kemp’s findings. The frightening details of how heroin has infiltrated Chicago, was mind-boggling. I live here and did not know about most of what he uncovered. Did you know the Eisenhower (29o expressway) is known as “Heroin Alley”? Well, I sure had not heard that. He filmed the drug trade and dealers who hang out along the side of the expressway. Did you know huge numbers of suburban addicts visit this area to buy drugs?
His series called “Ross Kemp Extreme World” is well produced and extremely graphic. Kemp clearly risked his life interviewing drug dealers and users throughout this documentary. It has sad moments of regular people now addicted, in action. They shot actual footage of them injecting the drugs, having seizures close to overdosing, and cutting the heroin. One of the suburban young women interviewed, said 70% of her friends were users. Wow!
If you want a closer look into Chicago’s drug problem, this is a must see. ALL OF THEM. As he digs in deep you will be amazed at his findings and that this happening right under our noses. At one point a dealer says the Chicago police are involved and some are also addicts. That’s not too surprising after watching this documentary.
If I was a tourist watching this documentary, I would sure be afraid to visit Chicago. Let’s hope this does not discourage them. Take some time out to watch and share it with others. It will blow your mind! Why isn’t our news media reporting this? Maybe our new Mayor Raum Emanuel will investigate.
Ross Kemp has received international recognition as an investigative journalist for his critically acclaimed and award-winning documentary series Ross Kemp on Gangs. He is an award-winning British actor, journalist and author.
Today OPRAH interviewed Clayton, who is now a young vibrant 19-year-old. But when he was only 6-years-old, his torture at the hands of his parents made national news.
Back in 1999, Clayton was severely abused by his parents who chained him in a closet and did unthinkable things to him for several months. The small child was starved, beaten, fed soap, and tortured at the hands of his dad and stepmother. Details of his abuse were outlined during his compelling interview with Oprah. Clayton was also reunited with the officer who rescued him long ago.
Clayton was rescued by an incredible officer, Deputy Todd Pate, over 13-years ago when his gut told him something was terribly wrong. The officer was smart enough to know the social worker who visited the home, reporting all was fine, was horribly mistaken. At the time officer Pate was only 28-years-old, but had the insight to go with his instinct, which is amazing. When the step-sister of the small boy ran away, officer Pate asked the parents to pick her up, knowing they would bring their little boy. The trap worked and he was able to obtain details of the abuse from the child and quickly arrested the parents.
It is unbelievable that the after all the torture Clayton had to endure, the parents were given mild sentences. The parents Joseph and Carmen Grad, only served a small portion of their sentence in jail. The father spent only 21 months of his 4 year sentence in jail and the stepmother did even less time. If this had happened now, they would have received a much tougher penalty.
What a sad story of abuse and torture of an innocent child. It is hard to believe the state of mind someone has to be in, to harm a child especially at this level. At that age, there is clearly no reason on earth that he could have done anything at all, to deserve such abuse.
It was disturbing to hear his story, but hopefully it will allow others in similar situations to speak out and get help. We know children are tortured and abused every day. Maybe others will look for abuse happening in their community and report it…better safe than sorry.
Hats off to the officer for doing the right thing and digging deeper to save him. Hats off to Clayton for sharing his story to help others. Hats off to the family member who adopted him. Hats off to Oprah for allowing him to speak.
The internet is on fire and the video is certain to go viral quickly. A video posted on YouTube shows the freak accident of a bulldog getting sucked in by an elevator door. Many animal lover’s are outraged but happy to hear the dog survived.
A Chicago man entered the elevator in his building, but apparently he was not watching closely. Because his bulldog’s leash got caught in the door, when the dog decided to stay in the lobby. As the door closed, he was pulled up by his leash, choking him with his own collar.
The stunned man told reporters, “I actually almost didn’t want to open the door and see what had happened on the lobby side. I wish I would have let go of the leash, but it all happened so fast that it pulled me in and it was impossible to take my hand out of the strap.”
Fortunately the dog survived with little damage, but the owner ended up with a broken wrist. Surveillance footage from the lobby is incredible to watch, but hopefully teaches all dog lover’s a lesson…pay attention to your pet!
We are all so distracted these days, especially with cell phones and other things…this is definitely a sign that we all need to slow down and enjoy life (and our pets).
The bulldog is resting comfortably, but probably is wondering if he will continue to be “man’s best friend”.
This is one of the most ridiculous legal cases on the record. The story of California mom, Crystal Harris, has caused public outrage and new proposed laws to protect abused spouses in the future.
Crystal Harris was a wife and mother of two small children, when she was sexually assaulted by her husband. Although he abused her and was later convicted and incarcerated, she was later forced to pay him alimony along with his paying his legal fees. Say what!
The woman told her story to ABC News and it now has made national news. Harris went on record stating that after her husband Shawn Harris abused her multiple times, she kept a tape recorder on hand, in the event he abused her again. The recorder later became her savior; he forced her to have sex with him while her children slept in their home in Carlsbad, CA, and it was caught on tape. After turning the tape over to police authorities, they used it in court and a jury convicted him on one count of forced oral copulation, which sent him to prison until 2014.
What kind of judge forces a rape victim to pay $1000 a month alimony to her abuser? How sick is this…and where is the common sense? Is the court system so shallow that they cannot use common sense and need a new law to avoid this insanity from happening?
In recent years laws have been enacted to protect victims after being assaulted. It is amazing that this would even happen in this day and age. Let’s hope they sign that bill quickly; to insure no one else has to endure this second rape of their dignity.
Most would agree that now is the best time in decades to buy a home. Everyone wants a great deal and the lowest interest rates available. While there are many success stories of homebuyers securing properties for 30% – 50% below market, there are also several misconceptions.
Many in the market to buy a home, want a short sale or foreclosure. But most do not understand the challenges faced when making that decision. The tips below are designed to help homebuyers, from a Chicago real estate agents perspective. One thing that’s clear in this unique market…rules seem to change daily so potential short sale buyers, need to be flexible.
If you are interested in securing a short sale property, this just may save you a lot of time. While assisting many buyers with their short sales purchase, these have been the most common things to note.
The internet is on fire with reports about comedian Tracy Morgan’s feud with his mom. Apparently her home is about to go into foreclosure, so she is demanding his help. She hit the airways, telling the media he refuses to assist and basically making him seem like a deadbeat son.
Tracy denies the allegations, saying he has not had much contact with him mom over the past 11 years. While he is worth about $18 million and earns $75,000 per episode on 30 Rock…should he help?
Well, I have to disagree. More than likely we do not know the whole story. If they are not in communication now, chances are they fought over money before. Many people who obtain fame and/or fortune find themselves with the same issue. Family typically looks at them like they are a cash station or bank. Remember Fantasia?
I’d like to know how much has he given her in the past? Although I’d help my mom if I were to receive a huge sum of money, if she were estranged it would change everything.
Who says a child is required to help a parent anyway? Although it is a parents responsibility to provide for their kids, it’s only until they’re adults and can care for themselves. It does not go the other way. If the relationship is not strong, then all bets are off. This story reminds me of Tyler Perrys’ admission to Oprah that he still helps his father; even after being physically and mentally abused by him. Sorry, but I just cannot comprehend that notion.
Tracy Morgan went on the record telling msnbc.com; “I am saddened that these untrue stories about me have people questioning my commitment to my family. For reasons that are between us, I have not seen my mother in 11 years and outside of a random call here and there have had little to no contact with my sister. We all have personal family issues that we have to deal with in life, but I choose to deal with mine in private and not through the media”.
Not sure about your thoughts, but I am on Tracy’s side on this one. It’s his money, he can do with it what he pleases. If he does not want to help her, as Bobby Brown would say, “It’s his prerogative”.
The former L.A. Lakers basketball star, Magic Johnson, became the owner of the popular show “Soul Train”,back in October of last year. During an interview with Jay Leno, he announced his plans to bring the show back to the airwaves.
It had been quiet lately, but just days after the suicide of show creator, writer and host, Don Cornelius, the internet is buzzing again. Will the news of his passing put the revival of the show back on the forefront? Well, let’s hope so, this would be great to see, especially as an updated version.
Can you imagine, Nicki Minaj, Rihanna or Neo rocking out on the Soul Train? It’s funny to think, they probably weren’t even born when the original show debuted back in 1971.
It was incredibly sad to hear of the death of Don Cornelius, but let’s hope Magic brings life back to his legacy. The Soul Train movie is also reported to be in the works…let’s hope our Chicago legend is well represented.
It was a good thing that a radio executive heard his voice and encouraged him to become a jock. Surprisingly enough, this happened when Cornelius stopped him for a ticket back when he was a cop. Funny how one small encounter in your life can create such a big opportunity.
I loved dancing along with the show on Saturday mornings, back in the day, it brings back good memories.
NAPERVILLE, IL is a vibrant community located just outside Chicago. It has topped the list of “Best places to live in America”. Which is probably why so many residents were surprised to hear of the fatal stabbing rampage at a local bar, Frankie’s Blue Room. Around 1am Saturday morning, witnesses say a brawl broke out, leaving teacher Shaun Wild stabbed to death and Willie Hayes along with Tony Hamilton in serious condition.
Shaun Wild was a 24-year-old first year teacher at Spring Brook Elementary School. Faculty, Students, and parents were shocked to hear of his death and saddened by the loss of their beloved teacher. The Principal, Dave Worst, even posted a touching tribute to Shaun on the schools website. A fund has been set up on the Shaun Wild memorial Facebook page.
Willie Hayesis a student at North Central College as well as the bar’s employee and Tony Hamilton, Director of School and Community Relations for Lemont High School. According to the news sources, Hayes is currently at Edward Hospital fighting for his life and the Hamilton was treated and released.
Police authorities announced they have a suspect in custody. Daniel J. Olaska, 27, was arrested and charged with two counts of attempted murder and one count of first degree murder. He appeared in court on Sunday and the judge set a $3M bond, which is the tone for what’s to come. The truly unbelievable part of this story is that Olaska allegedly admitted to stabbing the men, because beer was being sipped out of a wine glass. While his family and friends are stunned, obviously there was deep-rooted anger brewing inside.
What a senseless violent crime, especially at a place where people go to unwind and enjoy a weekend out. Was this brawl worth it to him..he will likely spend his life in prison. This is an important lesson for all…think before you act, one bad decision can change your life forever.
While Naperville has had very few violent crimes in recent years, this adds to the theory that there has been an increase in crime throughout the city and suburbs. Bank robberies, home invasions, armed robberies, shootings and now stabbings. What needs to be done to stop the violence? I say we have a forum where residents can submit their ideas.
Reports that the economy and job market is getting better would make us believe crime should be down. Is this all a false sense of security? Have more people just run out of their unemployment and become desperate, or is this due to the heightened use of drugs? Whatever the case, this needs to get under control.
It’s as though we have stepped back into the uncivilized world of the past. Is this what the mystery of 2012 really is all about? This all reminds me of the futuristic movies, showing humans out-of-control putting no value on life. Let’s hope this is not the case.
There is never a reason to kill anyone over a senseless feud. Respect life and it will respect you. Such a tragic outcome for the families, friends, colleagues and students of the victims.
SAY NO TO VIOLENCE….AND YES TO ENDING CRIME. PLEASE SHARE THIS POST WITH YOUR FRIENDS IF YOU AGREE. WE MUST BOND TOGETHER TO PUT A STOP TO THESE SENSELESS CRIMES.
Read full story HERE. Your comments and thoughts are welcomed.
Pop diva and actress Whitney Houstonwas found dead today, at only 48 years old. The award-winning singer, once married to Bobby Brown, battled drug and alcohol addiction for years, but her cause of death is still unknown.
According to sources, Whitney was at the Beverly Hills Hilton when paramedics were called. They tried to revive her at the scene, but were unable to save her and she was pronounced dead at 3:55pm. She was allegedly in the bath tub when they arrived at the hotel. Police are still investigating her death, and spent hours at the hotel collecting information.
What a sad day for the music industry and fans around the world…such an incredible talent lost again. It reminds me of the day Michael Jackson died; shocking and depressing. This is also a devastating loss for her 18-year-old daughter Bobbi Kristina and mom Sissy Houston. I was looking forward to her in the new “Waiting to Exhale” movie and her comeback. But at least her new movie ”Sparkle” will be released in August.
It’s ironic that she died a day before the Grammy’s; she won six during her music career. Whitney’s magical voice helped her sell over 200 million albums and singles worldwide. Adding to her trophy case; she also won 22 American Music Awards, 30 Billboard Awards and two Emmy’s. Not only did her songs stay on the top of the charts, her singing of the “National Anthem” back in 1991, is still talked about today. And her starring role in the blockbuster hit ”The Body Guard”, is still a fan favorite.
Many are speculating that her cause of death was from prolonged use of drugs and alcohol. But Smokey Robinson spoke with CNN tonight and said it best. Let’s hope she is remembered for all the good she brought to us all, not her “problems”. He went on to say that the media is quick to “bring you down” and focus on the negative when you are a superstar. But they are just real people, with real feelings.
The 54th Annual Grammy Awards will likely have its highest ratings in years. Since the live show aired just a day after the sudden death of Whitney Houston, millions tuned in to see how they would honor her legacy. Initially most thought the show would revolve around her unfortunate passing, but they pulled it off with a good balance of remembering Whitney and recognizing the nominees. LL Cool J hosted the showed and opened it with a prayer in her honor.
There was a blend of old and new artists, with performances by Paul McCarthy, Rihanna, Alicia Keys, Kelly Clarkson, Tony Bennett, the Beach Boys (who still sounded great) and many others. Chris Brown also danced his way back into his fans heart, receiving one of many standing ovations along with a Grammy for “Best R & B Album“. Taylor Swift blushed in amazement, as she received a prolonged standing ovation. Although I typically like her music, she looked a bit homely during her performance and I did not care for her song choice.
Nicki Minaj must be taking notes from Lady Gaga because she stepped even further outside her box. She rapped in a theatrical fashion with an exorcism theme, floating on stage with roman geared background dancers. Not sure where she was going with that routine but in my opinion, it just did not work. It would not be surprising if she gets some backlash from religious groups as well.
However, some of my favorite performances of the night were by two of the nominees. Bruno Mars, had the crowd on their feet with his upbeat tune and smooth, perfectly executed dance moves. His talent is beyond words, and what makes him special is his variety of hits.
Adele sang “Rolling In The Deep” with passion and true emotion, especially since it was after her recent throat surgery. It not only earned her an extended standing ovation but also the top Grammy’s honors for “Song Of The Year” and “Record Of The Year.” Which makes me wonder, what’s the difference? Song or record, uhmmm? Adele also won; “Best Pop Vocal Album”,“Pop Album of The Year”, “Album Of The Year”, “Best Pop Solo Performance.”She definitely was the “Golden Girl” of the evening winning six awards. At only 23-years-old, this will be a night to remember. Her Album ‘21‘ was the top seller in 2011 with over 6 million units sold, and she is now even with Beyoncé for most Grammys won by a female in a single night.
The show stopper was Jennifer Hudson’s tribute to Whitney Houston singing “I Will Always Love You”. Her heartfelt rendition brought tears to her eyes as well as those in the audience, as they stood on their feet and cheered. If you did not get chills up your spine, you may need to get checked. And where was Chaka Khan? Heard she dropped out of the tribute, via Twitter. She tweeted, “As I grieve the loss of my friend and ‘little sister,’ I don’t feel it appropriate to perform at this time. Continue to pray for the family.”
While I truly adore Adele and believe she was well-deserving of her awards, it would have been good to see Bruno Mars receive a bit more recognition. If only two awards could be given in some of the categories. He is also extremely talented and deserves his night in the spotlight at some point. It seems like there is always one artist who sweeps them each year.
Overall, the show was fairly entertaining and had some good moments. I am truly happy that Adele won so many awards…that was definitely the highlight of the night. Foo Fighters also won big, taking home five Grammys.
It’s just unfortunate Whitney Houston was not there to experience the show and she is gone forever. But it was great to see her peers remember her in spirit.
AMERICAN IDOL definitely has some of the best talent this year, in the stiffest competition yet. It was tough to see so many amazing singer’s sent packing, but I guess someone had to go.
It started with the top ten contestants being announced and while many names were not called, the only true shocker was Deandre Brakensick. How could he have not made the top ten? Is America going deaf?
Well, let’s break it down, the top five girls were Jessica, Hollie, Shannon, Skyler and Elise. I agree they all gave breathtaking performances, but it seems like Erica should have been selected early on too. It’s just hard to figure out who she should have replaced.
The top five guys rounded off with Heejun, Phillip, Joshua, Colton and Jermaine. The only one who could have been initially replaced was Heejun with Deandre. It was good to see Jemaine make the cut, after being eliminated then brought back earlier on. That was definitely a shock, but his low baritone voice was very much needed for the show.
Then on to the “Wildcard” round…where the judges selected six girls and guys to “sing for their lives”. Each judge was then able to select one of their favorites. It was evident they all really wanted to stay in the competition, because they truly gave it their all. The six selected were Jeremy, Reed, Brielle, Erika, and Deandre. The stand-outs were Deandre, Jeremy and Erica. Jeremy performed tearfully with heart and soul and brought everyone on their feet. Deandre belted out “Georgia” with such range, he deserved to stay. Erika was solid and brought it home. Although the unique and artistic singer Reed was pumped, he seemed a bit too desperate for my taste. But who did the judges choose to stick around?
The three wildcard picks were Erika (by Randy) Jeremy (by JLO), and thankfully one of my favorites, Deandre (by Steven Tyler). I was starting to doubt my last blog, where I called him a star…whew!
This was an extremely hard round, but the final top 13 are all stellar performer’s and they should make for a great season. The Idol contestants sent packing should leave with their heads held high, because some seriously talented singer’s went home tonight. Bye, bye…Hallie, Reed, Jennifer, Haley, Elise, Eben, Creighton, Chase, Aaron, Adam and Baylie.
On another note, Jimmy Iovine is obviously successful as Chairman of Interscope Records, but he became annoying tonight. Although some of his points were well-taken, others were completely off the mark. Why can’t Heejun have some personality and humor? Boring singers never get far so that was bad advice. And sorry…he was wrong saying that Deandre was not ready for “Reasons”, he blew it out the water! Maybe Jimmy needs a new hearing aid, because he seemed a bit off tonight.
Tyler Perry just released a new hit movie called “Good Deeds,“ but he also offered “real life” generosity to a local Chicago pastor. While his movie did extremely well at the box office, his truly “Good Deed” did not go unnoticed by Chicagoan’s.
South side Rev. Corey Brooksof New Beginnings Church, spent months on the rooftop of a motel near his church. His goal was to raise $450,000 to help stop the violence in Chicago. When Perry heard he was just shy of his goal, he donated the $98,000 shortage. Allowing the pastor to come off the roof and get to work!
The Rev. got fed up after having to bury 10 young black men from his congregation in a year, due to violence. In his fundraising efforts, he finally reached his goal and will use the funds to raze the building and replace it with a Community Center.
Lucky for him, Tyler Perry heard about his cause and not only made up the difference, he reportedly also gave the pastor a Harley Davidson. It looks like the pastor will be driving to his new community center in style, and Perry will once again be a hero to our youth. His story is also an inspiration…going from being homeless to a millionaire (if not billionaire). This just goes to show, if you put your mind to it…you can accomplish anything.
It’s good to hear about someone putting all this effort into cleaning up our great city. We cannot let the gangs, random shootings and robberies hold us hostage. The violence must end and our youth must begin to recognize human life is precious…and drugs and money mean nothing in the end.
Tyler Perry is not only a great actor, director and producer, his acts of kindness makes him an all-around inspiration to us all. Thanks for sharing Mr. Perry…isn’t karma awesome!
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The school shooting at Chardon High Schoolin Ohio, once again has a nation stunned. How many tragedies need to happen before they protect the children? Grief Counselors were sent to the school today, to help students grieve for their friends. But can the school system do more?
There are tight government regulations on pretty much everything we do now…why don’t they require schools to add metal detector’s at every front entrance? We get fined for more things than I can keep up with, why has it taken so long to provide security for our school children? How many more shootings need to happen in our schools before they take action?
Three vibrant young men, Russell King, Demetrius Howlin and Daniel Parmertor were killed, and two others were shot in this senseless rampage. What a tragic and unnecessary chain of events…and for what? For an obviously disturbed and angry student (Lane), who stole his uncles gun, to retaliate against innocent victims.
Unfortunately, in this sick world we live in…no school should be immune to having a metal detector at the front door. They need to take some of that lottery money, designed to help the school system, and use it to install one at each entry. Students should never have to be fearful to go to the supposedly “safe” environment of a classroom.
Mr. Obama and other politicians, what are you going to do to help? Please, let’s not have so many lost lives be in vain.
AMERICAN IDOL presented the top 12 girls tonight and while I’m all for “Girl Power”, most of them were definitely beat out by the guys. While the talent is obviously amazing this year, that also adds to a higher level of expectations. The show started a bit flat but it took one singer to catch my attention, but not in a good way.
Tonight I was a little distracted working while trying catch the second round. But I actually stopped to get fully engaged when Haley Johnsenhit the stage. However, it was not for good reason; when she began to sing she completely massacred the hit song “Sweet Dreams”, originally performed by the Eurythmics. Unfortunately for Haley, she got it totally wrong, and it sounded awful.
The good news is, she was followed by the 16-year-old, 6 foot beauty,Shannon Magrane. Her confidence and perfection was heard as she belted out a song about candles. While it was not a familiar tune to me, it sure sounded incredible.
After she sang, luckily it seemed to bring the show to life. Jessica Sanchez then stepped out and gave the best overall performance of the night. Although her vocal cords were still sore, she overcame her illness and delivered. She received a well-deserved standing ovation from the judges after singing her heart out. Jessica is the one to watch, and should give the guys a run for their money.
Sklyar Laineand Elise Testonalso gave solid performances. But in the end, the guys seemed to slightly edge out the girls during the early stage of the competition. Let’s hope the girls step up their game and “rule it” during round two.
Who do you think is going home first? It’s too early for me to tell, but I am fairly confident Jessica Sanchez or Deandre Brakensick won’t be leaving anytime soon.
On another note, I’m really beginning to miss Simon Cowell. He kept it real, and it’s getting annoying hearing them praise pretty much everyone. If the judges want to prepare them for the “real world” of the music industry, they will need to offer better critiques. I’m just saying…
HEY HEY WITH THE MONKEES! Any woman growing up in the 70′s, will definitely be sad to hear of the recent death of Davy Jones. He was a hearthrob for many, including myself, as the lead singer of the popular singing group “The Monkees“. Earlier today, 66-year-old, Jones, died of a sudden heart attack.
The follow-up tv series named the same as the group, was what made many young teens truly fall in love. It was a silly show with very little meaning, but they sure did look cute. I watched it all the time!
R.I.P. Davy, your millions of fans will smile as they think of the happiness you shared with the world.
On a side note, when you die in a leap year, does that mean you’re only memorialized every four years? That would really suck.
Michael Jordan has just listed his Highland Park Mansion for $29M. The former star basketball player for the Chicago Bulls, may have had humble beginnings, but is now worth millions and his home reflects his style of living.
The mansion is located in a Chicago suburb, and according to the MLS boasts over 32,000 square feet (networks estimated it at 50,000 square feet).This luxurious home includes an indoor basketball court, swimming pool, tennis courts and pretty much ever amenity your heart desires. It is set back like a castle, enclosed with a massive entry gate, which has Jordan’s famous Chicago Bull’s number 23beautifully engraved on the front.
American Idolseason 11 has a reason to celebrate. He goes by the name of Deandre Brakensick. The idol contestants are definitely in another caliber this year, but he is undoubtedly the full package. You can mark my words…a star is born.
Brakensick performed one of the hardest songs during his first round with an audience; “Reasons“ by the legendary group, Earth Wind And Fire.Anyone familiar with this classic knows it’s extremely tough to hit the high notes in tune, but he did just that and more. What makes him the full package is his charm; he clearly melted the hearts of the girls in the audience, with his smile, hazel eyes and touch, as he tossed his blond lock of curls several times.
This guy is certainly going a long way, not only in the competition, but in his singing career. It was great to see him handle the pressure of singing in front of a live audience, looking as comfortable as it gets. Sometimes they break during the early rounds but he held his own, blowing the highest of notes with ease.
Deandre Brakensick is one to watch…the talent is strong this year, but I have a feeling he could make it to the end. Another stand-out contestant isJoshua Ledet, his voice is powerful and he also rocked the house tonight. They were my favorites of the evening and both should sail through to the finals…if they keep up the momentum.
It’s just fortunate for him and the viewers that he made the cut this year, which just may in the nick of time. Because earlier today during an investor conference, the News Corp. Deputy Chairman and President Chase Carey,seemed concerned that the ratings have dropped 20% over last year. But over 19 million are still watching, so don’t let these figures fool you…they are still raking in the cash!
On a side note, Steven Tyler may need a reminder that this is a “kid friendly” show. While he has a tender side, his foul mouth needs a bit of soap to clean it out, prior to judging the contestants. Come on dog!
The 84th Annual Academy Awards aired tonight and two Oscar winners give us all hope. One for their age and the other for their color.
Octavia Spencerwalked away with Best Supporting Actress for her incredible performance in ”The Help”. This gives many young black women hope…that they too can do the same. Looking around the theatre filled with thousands of movie stars, it was very obvious color was hard to find. So it was good to see at least one winner who represented the entire race, and that’s probably one of the reasons she received a standing ovation.
While we are in 2012 and have a black President, as much as people want to deny it, there is still limited diversity in Hollywood. This is incredibly disappointing.
It was also clear that people of different nationalities were honored multiple times and dominated this year, but that was as far as it went when it came to “diversity”. While Viola Davis did at least receive a nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role, recognition for people of color is rarely seen. Will this ever change?
Christopher Plummerwas the second award winner to give us hope. At 82-years-old, he became the oldest man to win an Oscar. The announcement of his win, for the Best Supporting Actor in the film “Beginners”, received cheers from his peers. This was certainly a moment to feel excitement, because knowing you can accomplish great things at that age is reassuring. It is especially encouraging for me, seeing that I will likely be that age, if I would ever win an Oscar (for multiple reasons). Number one, I have not yet starred in a film and number two is the “color thing”.
The overall show was a bit less stiff than usual and Billy Crystal is still the best host of all time. Let’s just hope at some point we can experience a better blend of color nominated and in attendance. Maybe sometime in the near future, Tyler Perry or Oprah can Direct and/or produce a film worthy of their praise. What about the new Tyler Perry film “Good Deeds”? Do you think we will see him there next year?
The Academy Awards 2012 will air live this Sunday on ABC. Oscars will be presented for many incredible films, which likely had less viewers than usual. Because if most movie enthusiast are like me, they may have missed out last year. With the recession came limited funds and a budget, which caused fewer trips to the theatre.
Although in the past, we visited the local movie theatre several times a month, job losses and huge pay cuts left many of us watching cable networks for the latest releases. It’s sad to think that the only film on the top honors list this year, that I was able to catch, was “The Help”. Well, at least it was powerful and worthy of my $10 bucks. Surprisingly enough, it was originally not even on the top of my list, with a limited budget I had to be selective. However, I’m so glad I saw it, because the cast was truly perfection.
It will be hard to watch the awards show this year, without having seen most of the films nominated, but at least I can cheer for the nominees for Best Supporting ActressOctavia Spencer and Best Actress in a Leading Role Viola Davis. They were both amazing and are deserving of the golden statue. According to critics, these are tough categories this year, with serious competition. However, since Octavia already won a Golden Globe as well as a SAG Award, and Viola also won a SAG award, it’s possible they can make it happen. Let’s hope so!
It’s always a challenge to watch an awards show when you missed most of the movies nominated, but the good news is Billy Crystal is back as host. He is outstanding in this role, so I am looking forward to his return. Quite frankly he is the only reason for me to watch this year. His first stint was back in 1990 and he has hosted it a total of nine times. It is good they came to their senses and brought him back, he certainly is made for this gig and no-one does it better.
Buying a home in today’ s market can be a challenge and many have asked how best to ensure a smooth transaction. Listed below is a link to a summary of important steps to take when securing your new home. It may seem like a long list, but if you follow these basic steps, you will save yourself a lot of time and effort. If you are interested in purchasing a short sale or foreclosure, these still hold true, with a bit more patience.
ROSS KEMP EXPOSES CHICAGO’S HEROIN PROBLEM, MUST SEE VIDEO
CHICAGO is a great city to live and visit. But a friend of mine from overseas shared this documentary with me yesterday. In this recently produced video, Ross Kemp exposes the serious problem with heroin addiction, not only within Chicago’s inner city, but in “Middle America” suburban neighborhoods.
My friends first comment was “this video sure is bad for tourist who are thinking of visiting Chicago”. So I watched this incredible series and was shocked to see Kemp’s findings. The frightening details of how heroin has infiltrated Chicago, was mind-boggling. I live here and did not know about most of what he uncovered. Did you know the Eisenhower (29o expressway) is known as “Heroin Alley”? Well, I sure had not heard that. He filmed the drug trade and dealers who hang out along the side of the expressway. Did you know huge numbers of suburban addicts visit this area to buy drugs?
His series called “Ross Kemp Extreme World” is well produced and extremely graphic. Kemp clearly risked his life interviewing drug dealers and users throughout this documentary. It has sad moments of regular people now addicted, in action. They shot actual footage of them injecting the drugs, having seizures close to overdosing, and cutting the heroin. One of the suburban young women interviewed, said 70% of her friends were users. Wow!
If you want a closer look into Chicago’s drug problem, this is a must see. ALL OF THEM. As he digs in deep you will be amazed at his findings and that this happening right under our noses. At one point a dealer says the Chicago police are involved and some are also addicts. That’s not too surprising after watching this documentary.
If I was a tourist watching this documentary, I would sure be afraid to visit Chicago. Let’s hope this does not discourage them. Take some time out to watch and share it with others. It will blow your mind! Why isn’t our news media reporting this? Maybe our new Mayor Raum Emanuel will investigate.
Ross Kemp has received international recognition as an investigative journalist for his critically acclaimed and award-winning documentary series Ross Kemp on Gangs. He is an award-winning British actor, journalist and author.
WATCH MORE VIDEO’S HERE:
EPISODE 1 PT 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0asJrgyCBV0&feature=related
EPISODE 1 PT 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOCbnRqQE0k&feature=related
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Posted by brittaj on March 4, 2011 in Britta's SCOOP
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