The sleeze of Hollywood seems like the perfect follow-up to the sleeze of Philly politics. Therefore, I direct you to check out the saga of Pat O'Brien, host of The Insider and kiss-ass extraordinaire. Much like Ziggy Stardust or Icarus, O'Brien got too high for his own good, seduced by the bright lights. It appears that the vacuous reporting took its toll on the man, as he has now checked himself into rehab. You're thinking, so what? Another person in Hollywood going to rehab? Are you going to tell us about an athlete using steroids or a politician lying? Oh, but, wait, that's not the end of the story.
No, thankfully, Pat decided to leave some evidence of the the man behind the make-up and annoying on-screen demeanor on a woman's voice mail. Unfortunately, the off-screen personality is alot worse, and now we can all squeam and retch at the real man. Defamer and Gawker have been all over this story, and will fill you on everything you need to know. Go here and here for the stories about O'Brien, rehab and phone calls. Go here to hear the voice mails, which are as cringe-worthy as anything since the last time Courtney Love was in public.
A few thoughts on the whole sordid affair. There is a lesson to be learned, as the dangers of coke-dialing and drunk-dialing could not be more crystal clear. Please, people, don't pick the cell phone up at the end of the night. [For those holding onto Pound for Pound's late-night calls, please delete ASAP. This blog is about to blow-up, and I do not need that coming out. Thanks.] It's nice to know that even overpaid shitheads have cell phones problems (5 min. mark of the phone call), as clearly T-Mobile doesn't just have it out for me. Finally, I also cannot help but notice that this man is getting women, and I am sitting here writing a blog.
Thursday, March 31, 2005
To Smoke or Not to Smoke
That is the question facing Philadelphia now, as City Council tabled a bill by Michael Nutter a few weeks back (at the same time that they killed ethics reform) that would ban smoking in public places, including restaurants and bars.
So, what do my readers think? I would like for people to put their thoughts on this issue in the comments below, mainly as a way to get readers to call themselves out. I will hold my opinion until later, as I do hope people will respond with their thoughts.
What about my Philly people? Do you want a ban? Does it keep you from going out more? What were your thoughts about the recent tabling of the bill, since it lacked enough yes votes? Is this issue a major or minor one for you? For those not in Philly, do you want a smoking ban where you live? Do you already have one in your city? How is it working? What would your view of Philly be if this bill were passed? If it was scrapped again? Let's hear what you think, as I know that there are strong opinions on both sides, and I still feel in the middle. If you live in the suburbs somewhere, I don't give a shit what you think.
So, what do my readers think? I would like for people to put their thoughts on this issue in the comments below, mainly as a way to get readers to call themselves out. I will hold my opinion until later, as I do hope people will respond with their thoughts.
What about my Philly people? Do you want a ban? Does it keep you from going out more? What were your thoughts about the recent tabling of the bill, since it lacked enough yes votes? Is this issue a major or minor one for you? For those not in Philly, do you want a smoking ban where you live? Do you already have one in your city? How is it working? What would your view of Philly be if this bill were passed? If it was scrapped again? Let's hear what you think, as I know that there are strong opinions on both sides, and I still feel in the middle. If you live in the suburbs somewhere, I don't give a shit what you think.
The Shame of City Council: Part 2
A few Philly posts today, with some music reviews dropping tonight or tomorrow. What better place to start than the embarrassment that is Philadelphia City Council. Oh, Philly City Council, so corrupt, so content, so cute. You are such easy targets, filled with idiots who attempt to gain as much personal benefits from their jobs, while doing nothing to improve the city, the actual job part of the job. Ethics? Tax reform? Developing the waterfront? Not their problem. Preventing companies with ties to slavery from doing business with the city? Now that is an issue they can act on. Surreal, really, but it is fitting that this Council would deal with issues from more than 150 years ago while the city loses residents and job in the present and struggles to define itself for the future. While Rome burned....
Following up on City Council's busy week of inaction and the status quo, the Inquirer put together a nice piece on City Council's staffs and perks. It's not hard to imagine why the status quo is so desirable when you can spend $600K on staff, technology and cars. Of course, the money for these luxuries come out of our pockets, but that is no concern to them.
What is most embarrassing, and should be most upsetting to my readers, the city has just completed a round of layoffs to city workers, in an attempt to close the budget deficit that the Street administration and this City Council have created. I mention shame alot, but it is worthless with this bunch. They have none.
Read the article, as it should enfuriate anyone living in this city and concerned with its future. I want to take special note of two members of this esteemed body: David Cohen and Jannie Blackwell. These two spent the most money (besides City Council President Anna Verna, whose budget is larger), with both shilling out huge raises for staff members. Raises!?! Note that Ms. Blackwell has hired two new hires this year, while pink slips are being handed to city employees, the police force is being reduced and library hours are being cut. Best of all, she says that she would spend more if she could. I would laugh, if I wasn't afraid of choking on my own tears.
Of course, we elect these people, and so ultimately this embarrassment falls at our doorsteps. Until we demand more from these people, and choose ones that represent the city's interests and not their own, we get what we deserve. Go here if you wish to express your disgust.
Following up on City Council's busy week of inaction and the status quo, the Inquirer put together a nice piece on City Council's staffs and perks. It's not hard to imagine why the status quo is so desirable when you can spend $600K on staff, technology and cars. Of course, the money for these luxuries come out of our pockets, but that is no concern to them.
What is most embarrassing, and should be most upsetting to my readers, the city has just completed a round of layoffs to city workers, in an attempt to close the budget deficit that the Street administration and this City Council have created. I mention shame alot, but it is worthless with this bunch. They have none.
Read the article, as it should enfuriate anyone living in this city and concerned with its future. I want to take special note of two members of this esteemed body: David Cohen and Jannie Blackwell. These two spent the most money (besides City Council President Anna Verna, whose budget is larger), with both shilling out huge raises for staff members. Raises!?! Note that Ms. Blackwell has hired two new hires this year, while pink slips are being handed to city employees, the police force is being reduced and library hours are being cut. Best of all, she says that she would spend more if she could. I would laugh, if I wasn't afraid of choking on my own tears.
Of course, we elect these people, and so ultimately this embarrassment falls at our doorsteps. Until we demand more from these people, and choose ones that represent the city's interests and not their own, we get what we deserve. Go here if you wish to express your disgust.
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
Hank Gathers and Bo Kimble
Following up on that last post, I did one to add one more memory that came from Ted Silary's All-City best high school players. Two of the names on the Third Team are Eric "Hank" Gathers and Greg "Bo" Kimble, who both grew up in North Philly, starring at Dobbins Tech in the mid 80s. I was immediately reminded of the sight of Kimble, star guard for Loyola Marymount University, shooting his foul shots left-handed during the tourney as a tribute to Gathers, his recently-deceased teamate. I thought of Gathers collapsing during a game, taken from the world too soon. Thinking back on that wonderful gesture, the unlikely run to the Elite Eight by this small school, and the loss of a brilliant athlete and wonderful person in the prime of his life brings tears to my eyes.
Go here for a wonderful look at Hank Gathers, Bo Kimble and that amazing Loyola Marymount team of 1990-1. It gives you a sense of how much of an impact Hank had on the school and his teamates, and why is death was devastating. Their improbable run to within one game of the Final Four was a fitting tribute to the larger-than-life Gathers, a man who overcame great obstacles to be one of the best basketball players in all of the world.
This article is my favorite, as I love the notion of Hank's ghost haunting his old court. I especially love the fact that the Athletic Director leaves the lights on a little longer so Hank can shoot extra. Ghosts have always fascinated me, the notion that the living world is haunted by the events and people of the past. History as present, I guess. They are clearly the creation of the living, but is that so bad? Hank left too soon, and for many, they were not ready to let him go. Why are we so afraid of memory? Why are we so afraid to acknowledge that memory surrounds us? I know that this sounds like crazy talk, as I am not being very clear now. Maybe I'll come back to it later, in the context of the city, or some works of art/literature that deal with this, or something.
All I am trying to say now is that everyone misses Hank. Read this tribute by the Los Angeles Loyolan, remember Hank and remember that team. As Dan Levitar writes, "They couldn't bring him back, so they played with his spirit, and that carried them a little higher, above their despair. It was moving, watching that, mourning death and celebrating life all at once." I guess that sums it up, mourning death and celebrating at the same time. That sums up the story of 1990 Loyola Marymount team, and so much more.
For you, Hank.
Go here for a wonderful look at Hank Gathers, Bo Kimble and that amazing Loyola Marymount team of 1990-1. It gives you a sense of how much of an impact Hank had on the school and his teamates, and why is death was devastating. Their improbable run to within one game of the Final Four was a fitting tribute to the larger-than-life Gathers, a man who overcame great obstacles to be one of the best basketball players in all of the world.
This article is my favorite, as I love the notion of Hank's ghost haunting his old court. I especially love the fact that the Athletic Director leaves the lights on a little longer so Hank can shoot extra. Ghosts have always fascinated me, the notion that the living world is haunted by the events and people of the past. History as present, I guess. They are clearly the creation of the living, but is that so bad? Hank left too soon, and for many, they were not ready to let him go. Why are we so afraid of memory? Why are we so afraid to acknowledge that memory surrounds us? I know that this sounds like crazy talk, as I am not being very clear now. Maybe I'll come back to it later, in the context of the city, or some works of art/literature that deal with this, or something.
All I am trying to say now is that everyone misses Hank. Read this tribute by the Los Angeles Loyolan, remember Hank and remember that team. As Dan Levitar writes, "They couldn't bring him back, so they played with his spirit, and that carried them a little higher, above their despair. It was moving, watching that, mourning death and celebrating life all at once." I guess that sums it up, mourning death and celebrating at the same time. That sums up the story of 1990 Loyola Marymount team, and so much more.
For you, Hank.
30-Year All-City Basketball Team
Check out this great piece by Ted Silary, the Daily News' high school sports writer. He takes a look at the best high school basketball players in Philadelphia over the last 30 years, the time that he has covered the sport in the city. Click here to see his list, including his choice for best player, West Philly's Gene Banks.
I will let you look through the three teams, but I have to ask if there is any doubt that this is the greatest city for basketball in the world? The talent that has come out of this city is unparalleled; keep in mind that this list does not cover the 50s and 60s, when legends like Wilt Chamberlain, Hal Greer, Tom Gola and Earl "The Pearl" Monroe, just to name a few, starred in the city's leagues and playgrounds. It is a staggering list, filled with names that are familiar to any college or pro basketball fan. That's without taking into account the great coaches (Jack Ramsey, John Chaney, Harry Litwack, Chuck Daly, et al), the Big Five, the 76ers and Warriors, the Philadelphia SPHAs, the Palestra, the Sonny Hill leagues, the Baker League. The game and this city are intertwined, as each is essential to the other's story.
The feature also brought to mind stories that my father has been telling me since I was a kid, ones that featured Wilt or Gene Banks or so many of the great players that have played here for high school, college and the pros. Stories about the legendary games at the Boathouse Row courts. It brought me back to those days as a kid going to the Palestra, the basketball mecca on UPenn's campus, watching tripleheaders all day with my Dad. Days playing on the street with a milkcrate nailed to a telephone pole as a net. Days at the courts at Lemon Hill. Having Wilt sign his autobiography for me at the old Borders on 18th and Walnut, his hand engulfing mine. Cheering for the Sixers with my Grandmother, who loved Moe Cheeks, one of the game's greatest point guards, as much as any man in her life (except me). My own history is just as intertwined, I guess.
I will let you look through the three teams, but I have to ask if there is any doubt that this is the greatest city for basketball in the world? The talent that has come out of this city is unparalleled; keep in mind that this list does not cover the 50s and 60s, when legends like Wilt Chamberlain, Hal Greer, Tom Gola and Earl "The Pearl" Monroe, just to name a few, starred in the city's leagues and playgrounds. It is a staggering list, filled with names that are familiar to any college or pro basketball fan. That's without taking into account the great coaches (Jack Ramsey, John Chaney, Harry Litwack, Chuck Daly, et al), the Big Five, the 76ers and Warriors, the Philadelphia SPHAs, the Palestra, the Sonny Hill leagues, the Baker League. The game and this city are intertwined, as each is essential to the other's story.
The feature also brought to mind stories that my father has been telling me since I was a kid, ones that featured Wilt or Gene Banks or so many of the great players that have played here for high school, college and the pros. Stories about the legendary games at the Boathouse Row courts. It brought me back to those days as a kid going to the Palestra, the basketball mecca on UPenn's campus, watching tripleheaders all day with my Dad. Days playing on the street with a milkcrate nailed to a telephone pole as a net. Days at the courts at Lemon Hill. Having Wilt sign his autobiography for me at the old Borders on 18th and Walnut, his hand engulfing mine. Cheering for the Sixers with my Grandmother, who loved Moe Cheeks, one of the game's greatest point guards, as much as any man in her life (except me). My own history is just as intertwined, I guess.
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
Cowboyz 'n' Poodles
I caught this post from Julianne Shepherd at her so-necessary blog, Cowboyz 'n Poodles, and it seemed like the perfect post to highlight what she has going on. NY Electric captures that urban energy and beauty that so few seem to acknowledge and influences everything that I am trying to do with Pound for Pound. I hope to spend more time in the future dealing with the day-to-day city, the beauty of the urban life on the ground, that electricity. Imma get all de Certeau on your asses.
I have added her blog to the links on the right, as everyone should make it a regular stop. Girl is doing real big things-writing, choreographing, hanging out with Disco D (!!!!)- and now is the time to axe like you know. Any writer who can write a line like this one, from another recent post that made me very happy, "I'm eyeballs-first into my obsession with being IN NEW YORK--really becoming a breathing cell of the city-organism. To be a part of its present, I'm reading to know its past" is aces in my book. I mean, damn! Is this my first blog crush? It might be, although I'm not sure if the guy who plays Clark Kent on Smallville has a blog. Either way, she is one of the best, and an inspiration for this blog.
Sorry for the delays, but Blogger has been crazy today. Lots of stuff to come in the next few days, especially music, as we are going to the next level.
I have added her blog to the links on the right, as everyone should make it a regular stop. Girl is doing real big things-writing, choreographing, hanging out with Disco D (!!!!)- and now is the time to axe like you know. Any writer who can write a line like this one, from another recent post that made me very happy, "I'm eyeballs-first into my obsession with being IN NEW YORK--really becoming a breathing cell of the city-organism. To be a part of its present, I'm reading to know its past" is aces in my book. I mean, damn! Is this my first blog crush? It might be, although I'm not sure if the guy who plays Clark Kent on Smallville has a blog. Either way, she is one of the best, and an inspiration for this blog.
Sorry for the delays, but Blogger has been crazy today. Lots of stuff to come in the next few days, especially music, as we are going to the next level.
Monday, March 28, 2005
Science Jumps the Shark
I just caught this article and had to spread the word to my readers. It seems that the size of a man's index finger in relation to the size of his ring finger helps determine. The smaller the index finger, the more aggressive the man is.
It is nice to know the doctors and medical researchers have cured all of the diseases that threaten us, as that is the only reasonable explanation for this experiment to have ever happened. Does anyone else find this part of the article a tad surreal:
Hurd said he is continuing his research on physical aggression, however, by comparing hockey players' finger lengths to the number of penalty minutes they rack up in a given season.
What the fuck? This is the best use of research money? AIDS, cancer, Alzheimer's? No, we must measure Donald Brashear's index finger. Must!
One should know that this is a follow-up to the study by Dr. Johnson in the late 70s, which determined that a man's penis size can be determined by measuring from the tip of the thumb to the index finger. That was later challenged by the findings of another study, done by Dr. Rosenpenis. That study said that penis size can only be determined by a measurement from the wrist to the tip of the middle finger. The debate has raged on since then.
All I can say that it is a tough time for men, as one cannot fathom the horror of living a life where the size of one's hands inform every woman around that we have a small weiner and are a potential psychopath. Damn you, genetics! Damn you! C'mon, researchers, ladies, G-d, can't you give a brother a break! Don't force us to live our lives with our hands in our pockets. That's no way to live a life.
Finally, I want to present the author of this article with the first annual 'Most Inappropriate Opening Sentence'. It's always nice to see the word 'finger' used as a verb, as that does not happen enough outside of the locker room. Congragulations to this writer, as it takes real talent to leave the reader speechless and uncomfortable in so few words.
It is nice to know the doctors and medical researchers have cured all of the diseases that threaten us, as that is the only reasonable explanation for this experiment to have ever happened. Does anyone else find this part of the article a tad surreal:
Hurd said he is continuing his research on physical aggression, however, by comparing hockey players' finger lengths to the number of penalty minutes they rack up in a given season.
What the fuck? This is the best use of research money? AIDS, cancer, Alzheimer's? No, we must measure Donald Brashear's index finger. Must!
One should know that this is a follow-up to the study by Dr. Johnson in the late 70s, which determined that a man's penis size can be determined by measuring from the tip of the thumb to the index finger. That was later challenged by the findings of another study, done by Dr. Rosenpenis. That study said that penis size can only be determined by a measurement from the wrist to the tip of the middle finger. The debate has raged on since then.
All I can say that it is a tough time for men, as one cannot fathom the horror of living a life where the size of one's hands inform every woman around that we have a small weiner and are a potential psychopath. Damn you, genetics! Damn you! C'mon, researchers, ladies, G-d, can't you give a brother a break! Don't force us to live our lives with our hands in our pockets. That's no way to live a life.
Finally, I want to present the author of this article with the first annual 'Most Inappropriate Opening Sentence'. It's always nice to see the word 'finger' used as a verb, as that does not happen enough outside of the locker room. Congragulations to this writer, as it takes real talent to leave the reader speechless and uncomfortable in so few words.
MOMA Gets Punk'd
I wanted to give y'all a chance to catch your breath, as I know last week was a sort of wonkish one here at Pound for Pound. Taxes and ethics don't get ya laid, I know. That's what you might think, fellas, but remember that this is the year of the intellectual thug. Start talking Derrida and Benjamin, and watch them panties drop. (Any woman nodding her head to this, please get at me ASAP)
Anyway, I have not been happy reading the news in a long time, which only made this story that much better. On Friday a London graf artist who goes by the name of Banksy pulled one of the great pranks of all-time on March 13. He went to the four of the most prestigious museums in New York City-the Museum of Modern Art, the Brooklyn Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the American Museum of Natural History- and hung his own works on their walls. That's right, he walked in with his own canvases and hung them on the wall. Best of all, it took museum personnel days to realize that they didn't belong.
The Wooster Collective has all of the behind-the-scenes info, interviews with the man, and some great pictures of the act being committed. Go here to check out their site, which we will come back to in the near future. Go here to learn more about the mysterio behind this daring stunt. Dudes bringing fake beards and trench coats back into style (Inspector Clouseau, holla!)
I'll leave you with this quote from Banksy in the the NY Times article about the whole affair:
You just have to glue on a fake beard and move with the times.
Words to live by, kids. Words to live by.
Anyway, I have not been happy reading the news in a long time, which only made this story that much better. On Friday a London graf artist who goes by the name of Banksy pulled one of the great pranks of all-time on March 13. He went to the four of the most prestigious museums in New York City-the Museum of Modern Art, the Brooklyn Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the American Museum of Natural History- and hung his own works on their walls. That's right, he walked in with his own canvases and hung them on the wall. Best of all, it took museum personnel days to realize that they didn't belong.
The Wooster Collective has all of the behind-the-scenes info, interviews with the man, and some great pictures of the act being committed. Go here to check out their site, which we will come back to in the near future. Go here to learn more about the mysterio behind this daring stunt. Dudes bringing fake beards and trench coats back into style (Inspector Clouseau, holla!)
I'll leave you with this quote from Banksy in the the NY Times article about the whole affair:
You just have to glue on a fake beard and move with the times.
Words to live by, kids. Words to live by.
Thursday, March 24, 2005
Oschino
Speaking of Philly music that deserves a greater audience, there is a great post over at We Eat So Many Shrimp, the best hip-hop blog in the game, dealing with this very topic. This one comes from emynd, author of his own blog called Schizophrenic Tenant Number One. He takes a look at one of the hottest mixtapes here in the 215, which I hope to grab soon.
Oschino is the lesser-known member of the State Property crew, probably for a reason. As emynd says, "Dude's not really spectacular in anyway and he doesn't have a real marketable sound (probably why his album with Amilio Sparks hasn't really come to fruition on the Roc) but dude is just ridiculous with his heart-felt ghetto shit." Anyway, emynd takes a closer looker at Oschino, who is getting lots of attention here in Philly off of his mixtape, Oschino Best of Part 2. He does a better job than I can describing the joy of listening to this State Property stuff, and he has some mp3s to hear for yourself. "I ain't want clothes I just wanted some Boston Market." Dun, that's real.
I agree completely, and would recommend heading here, grabbing some mp3s and checking it our for yourself. I cannot recommend highly enough So Many Shrimp, as it is the best blog writing about hip-hop. Their writers write with love and anger at this music, calling out the good ish that no one has heard yet and the frauds that everyone has heard of. More to come on the bols over there.
Anyway, we will be talking lots of music in the near-future, trying to highlight Philly artists that don't get enough due and the new and old sounds that have been making this long winter a little more tolerable.
Oschino is the lesser-known member of the State Property crew, probably for a reason. As emynd says, "Dude's not really spectacular in anyway and he doesn't have a real marketable sound (probably why his album with Amilio Sparks hasn't really come to fruition on the Roc) but dude is just ridiculous with his heart-felt ghetto shit." Anyway, emynd takes a closer looker at Oschino, who is getting lots of attention here in Philly off of his mixtape, Oschino Best of Part 2. He does a better job than I can describing the joy of listening to this State Property stuff, and he has some mp3s to hear for yourself. "I ain't want clothes I just wanted some Boston Market." Dun, that's real.
I agree completely, and would recommend heading here, grabbing some mp3s and checking it our for yourself. I cannot recommend highly enough So Many Shrimp, as it is the best blog writing about hip-hop. Their writers write with love and anger at this music, calling out the good ish that no one has heard yet and the frauds that everyone has heard of. More to come on the bols over there.
Anyway, we will be talking lots of music in the near-future, trying to highlight Philly artists that don't get enough due and the new and old sounds that have been making this long winter a little more tolerable.
Why Can't Philly Do a South by Southwest?
I caught this article in the Philadelphia Inquirer yesterday, detailing the South by Southwest Music Festival in Austin, Texas. South by Southwest is a gigantic, week-long music festival and conference in Austin, started in 1987 as a showcase for the city and its music scene. Numerous Philly performers participated this year, from Diplo and DJ Lt. Dan to Man Man and Dr. Dog. It sounds like an amazing week of non-stop music, drinking and parties, and I hope to make it down there in the future. Check out the pictures at Catchdubs (and here), The Fader (and here)and Houston So Real (more to come on this great blog) for visual evidence of the music and debauchery.
I immediately thought how cool it would be to have something similar in Philadelphia. SXSW has been both a result and a product of the emergence of Austin, Texas. It started off as a showcase for the city and its music scene, as they wanted the rest of the country and world to know what a great place they had for music. However, it was also a chance for Austin to meet the world. This helped create a inter/national music festival for performers, writers and industry people that has turned Austin into a music center.
Seeing all of these Philly bands and DJs participating, it seems like this event could be done here in our city. Our city has one of the greatest musical legacies, but it has really done so without More importantly, I like the notion of bringing the city to world, and vice versa, as it is time.
I do not know anything about setting up a festival, or promoting, or what it would take to do even one concert. I know that this would not be easy, but feel like it is an idea that is worth the time and effort. I would love to hear from anyone who has experience with this type of thing, as you would know best if this could happen, and what Philly lacks or needs to make it happen. The infratructure would seem to be there, as the city is incredibly walkable, has decent public transportation, and lots of bars, clubs, hotels, restaurants, etc. Our proximity and relative cheapness to NYC, D.C. and Boston helps. Best of all, the music here is amazing, running the gamut from hip-hop, Baltimore Club, dancehall to rock, jazz, and classical. You can see Philadelphians running music of all genres, and it would seem that they could put their weight behind this idea. Plus, we are already a major stop on tours, which means that bringing the rest of the world is doable. Finally, sponsorship from local companies could make the initial costs manageable.
What would it take? What kind of money? Are there already festivals or groups that I have not acknowledged in Philadelphia, already trying to do this very idea? What does everyone think?
Imagine how great it would be to have a major yearly music festival in our city, bringing in thousands of artists, writers, industry people. Imagine thousands of festival goers roaming the city, checking out different clubs and bands and neighborhoods that we have always taken for granted. Imagine all of the great shows that would happen, dream bills (check out the shows Matt of Houston So Real put on, for example) that could come together. Imagine Philly being the center of all of this press coverage, showing off for the world what we have here. Imagine.
I immediately thought how cool it would be to have something similar in Philadelphia. SXSW has been both a result and a product of the emergence of Austin, Texas. It started off as a showcase for the city and its music scene, as they wanted the rest of the country and world to know what a great place they had for music. However, it was also a chance for Austin to meet the world. This helped create a inter/national music festival for performers, writers and industry people that has turned Austin into a music center.
Seeing all of these Philly bands and DJs participating, it seems like this event could be done here in our city. Our city has one of the greatest musical legacies, but it has really done so without More importantly, I like the notion of bringing the city to world, and vice versa, as it is time.
I do not know anything about setting up a festival, or promoting, or what it would take to do even one concert. I know that this would not be easy, but feel like it is an idea that is worth the time and effort. I would love to hear from anyone who has experience with this type of thing, as you would know best if this could happen, and what Philly lacks or needs to make it happen. The infratructure would seem to be there, as the city is incredibly walkable, has decent public transportation, and lots of bars, clubs, hotels, restaurants, etc. Our proximity and relative cheapness to NYC, D.C. and Boston helps. Best of all, the music here is amazing, running the gamut from hip-hop, Baltimore Club, dancehall to rock, jazz, and classical. You can see Philadelphians running music of all genres, and it would seem that they could put their weight behind this idea. Plus, we are already a major stop on tours, which means that bringing the rest of the world is doable. Finally, sponsorship from local companies could make the initial costs manageable.
What would it take? What kind of money? Are there already festivals or groups that I have not acknowledged in Philadelphia, already trying to do this very idea? What does everyone think?
Imagine how great it would be to have a major yearly music festival in our city, bringing in thousands of artists, writers, industry people. Imagine thousands of festival goers roaming the city, checking out different clubs and bands and neighborhoods that we have always taken for granted. Imagine all of the great shows that would happen, dream bills (check out the shows Matt of Houston So Real put on, for example) that could come together. Imagine Philly being the center of all of this press coverage, showing off for the world what we have here. Imagine.
Philly City Council: Our City's Embarrasment
This seems like the perfect follow-up to my post about the failure of the Street administration and City Council to enact meaningful tax reform. Another day, another failure for John Street and his supporters on City Council, as they defeated Michael Nutter's ethics bill. It fell one vote short, as 5 council members voted against it.
Of course, this bill did not just appear out of nowhere. Rather, it emerged in the aftermath of an FBI probe of the city and the awarding of contracts in return for campaign donations and gifts. The federal case is unfolding now, and everyone needs to go here for a great overview of this whole seedy affair. It will make crystal clear the need for ethics legislation, and increased scrutiny on our pols and their actions.
In the face of this trial and massive evidence of corruption at the highest levels of city government, 5 members of City Council and the Mayor decided to kill legislation aimed at cleaning up Philly government. It is an embarrasment for these people, and should be a real wake-up call for those concerned about the future of the city.
Most stunning is the excuses given by these 5 cowards, excuses so weak and idiotic that they should be embarrassed to utter them aloud. Tom Ferrick does a great job ridiculing these 5, calling them out for what they are: idiots. Jill Porter wonders what these dissenters were doing over the last 5 months as this legislation was written and debated. It's a great question in lieu of their complaints over the effects of specific parts of the bill, which were written months ago. Why didn't they speak up then, for the love of G-d!
While their excuses and thoughts are idiotic, it is clear that they know exactly what they are doing. They don't want ethics reform, plain and simple. They don't want to clean up government, because they are the ones profiting off the sleaze. They see their offices as personal fiefs, a chance to profit on their power. They're not embarrassed by any of this, because they don't care what we, the citizens, think.
Their lame excuses make clear that they think we are idiots, that we can't see their lies for what they are. This bill was a gutted version of the original, as Michael Nutter watered down the original. Council fought against a nepotism sanction, because they feel that their position should allow them to benefit their families at taxpayers' cost. They didn't want an outside ethics commission, since an independent oversight would be outside of their control. Nor did they want any prohibition on outside employment, despite salaries of $100,000. But, of course, we all know why their excuses sound hollow. They were never really going to support reform, because the status quo benefits them.
I completely agree with this editorial, as these 5 men and women- Jannie Blackwell, Rick Mariano, Donna Reed Miller, Marian Tasco, and Darrell Clarke- should forever be enshrined in a Hall of Shame, tainted with this vote for life. They voted for their own interests, wishing to protect their cash cow and their insider benefits that have hurt the city for decades. They voted against the interests of the people of this city, those of us who do not have any connections, who can't grease the wheels, and who believe deeply in this city and its greatness.
I am angry and embarrassed to live in this city after this vote, ashamed to see our so-called leaders sabotage the hard work and progress of recent. These 5 and our Mayor have shown what side they are on, the side of the status quo, cronyism and corruption. They stand on the side of their own interests, not the side of Philadelphia, its citizens and its future. I will take a look at what those of us on the other side can do, shortly.
Of course, this bill did not just appear out of nowhere. Rather, it emerged in the aftermath of an FBI probe of the city and the awarding of contracts in return for campaign donations and gifts. The federal case is unfolding now, and everyone needs to go here for a great overview of this whole seedy affair. It will make crystal clear the need for ethics legislation, and increased scrutiny on our pols and their actions.
In the face of this trial and massive evidence of corruption at the highest levels of city government, 5 members of City Council and the Mayor decided to kill legislation aimed at cleaning up Philly government. It is an embarrasment for these people, and should be a real wake-up call for those concerned about the future of the city.
Most stunning is the excuses given by these 5 cowards, excuses so weak and idiotic that they should be embarrassed to utter them aloud. Tom Ferrick does a great job ridiculing these 5, calling them out for what they are: idiots. Jill Porter wonders what these dissenters were doing over the last 5 months as this legislation was written and debated. It's a great question in lieu of their complaints over the effects of specific parts of the bill, which were written months ago. Why didn't they speak up then, for the love of G-d!
While their excuses and thoughts are idiotic, it is clear that they know exactly what they are doing. They don't want ethics reform, plain and simple. They don't want to clean up government, because they are the ones profiting off the sleaze. They see their offices as personal fiefs, a chance to profit on their power. They're not embarrassed by any of this, because they don't care what we, the citizens, think.
Their lame excuses make clear that they think we are idiots, that we can't see their lies for what they are. This bill was a gutted version of the original, as Michael Nutter watered down the original. Council fought against a nepotism sanction, because they feel that their position should allow them to benefit their families at taxpayers' cost. They didn't want an outside ethics commission, since an independent oversight would be outside of their control. Nor did they want any prohibition on outside employment, despite salaries of $100,000. But, of course, we all know why their excuses sound hollow. They were never really going to support reform, because the status quo benefits them.
I completely agree with this editorial, as these 5 men and women- Jannie Blackwell, Rick Mariano, Donna Reed Miller, Marian Tasco, and Darrell Clarke- should forever be enshrined in a Hall of Shame, tainted with this vote for life. They voted for their own interests, wishing to protect their cash cow and their insider benefits that have hurt the city for decades. They voted against the interests of the people of this city, those of us who do not have any connections, who can't grease the wheels, and who believe deeply in this city and its greatness.
I am angry and embarrassed to live in this city after this vote, ashamed to see our so-called leaders sabotage the hard work and progress of recent. These 5 and our Mayor have shown what side they are on, the side of the status quo, cronyism and corruption. They stand on the side of their own interests, not the side of Philadelphia, its citizens and its future. I will take a look at what those of us on the other side can do, shortly.
Wednesday, March 23, 2005
Philly Fighter
Lots of posts coming tonight, but I wanted to get this nice story out from yesterday's Daily News. John Smallwood looks at Temple senior Khadija Bowens, who was dismissed from school as a sophmore for academic reasons. However, she went to Philadelphia Community College, hit the books hard, and was able to get readmitted. She played last night, in Temple's loss to Rutgers in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, and is a wonderful story about the power of team, sports and hard work.
I wanted to highlight this quote from the story, which is just so perfect and familiar:
" 'Dij' is a fighter," said senior co-captain Ari Moore, who came into the program with Bowens. "She's a Philly girl who's a fighter, just like coach Staley.
I wanted to highlight this quote from the story, which is just so perfect and familiar:
" 'Dij' is a fighter," said senior co-captain Ari Moore, who came into the program with Bowens. "She's a Philly girl who's a fighter, just like coach Staley.
"She was able to get herself together. She decided this was the place she wanted to be, no other place. I'm glad she's here. She's a person who I admire because when the going got tough, she kept fighting. That's really the type of attitude you want on a team."
Death and Taxes
I wanted to direct my readers to this necessary piece by Brett Mandel, executive director of Philadelphia Forward, in yesterday's Daily News. Philadelphia Forward has taken the lead in this city on tax reform, pushing for tax cuts and an adoption of the proposals/plan put forth by the Philadelphia Tax Reform Commission.
Everyone who has studied the city and its problems agrees that this issue of taxation is of vital importance to the city's future, and yet nothing has happened. Mandel details the recent history of this issue, including the numerous studies that have been done, which have all reached the same conclusions. He mentions the economic forum that Street convened in the Fall of 2004, which was simply a joke and waste of money. Closed to the public and the press (another Street hallmark), its participants were not allowed to deviate far from the administration line that tax cuts are impossible.
It is an embarrassment that the 28 recommendations of the Philly Tax Reform Commission, which worked for an entire year studying the situation, have not been adopted. Street has stalled and stalled, looking for more studying. As Mandel says, "The time for study is over. The time for action is now." This was a commission created at the behest of voters, composed of members from all parts of society, from academics to labor to community groups. These rec is a product of hard work, deliberate thinking and the citizen's desires for a fairer tax system. There has been no effective argument against the implementation of this plan, just scare tactics aimed at those who rely on the city for various services.
The entire issue sums up this city's politcal culture, which seems content to spend its time telling us why things can't be, struggling to maintain the status quo. It makes sense for them, as they have viewed this city as a trough to benefit themselves, their families and their supporters. But, as the 21st Century Forum wrote, "The city should move quickly to adopt the major recommendations of the Tax Reform Commission... Some will question whether the city... can afford significant tax reform at this time, but that is the wrong question. Rather, we should ask how we can afford not to reform taxes now." This is the essence of the struggle that is going on here, as Philly's leaders and citizens have thought about what we are not and what we cannot be. Those who do are living in the past, and should be left back there. Hopefully, this issue can come to the forefront, another plank in the fight to take this city into the 21st Century, along with ethics reform.
I must confess that I know that nothing good will happen during our current Mayor's term, as he is more concerned with presiding over a dying city than facing hard decisions and standing up to his supporters. I challenge this Mayor to make the same committment that the Tax Commission made to attract or retain 47,000 jobs by 2010 and 175,000 jobs by 2017. Will he do this? Since he does not believe in reducing the tax burden, how will he add jobs to the city? If tax cuts were legitimate for the Cira Center, Comcast's proposed tower and new homes, why is a comprehensive plan not legitimate? For those who have argued against tax reform, like the city's unions, please explain your plan to grow our economy. How do you envision the city growing in jobs and people? Or are you only concerned with your members' lives and futures? Since service cuts are your greatest fear, do you acknowledge that any contuining decline in population and jobs will inevitably lead to a smaller tax base and less money to pay for services?
These are obviously loaded questions, but that is because I think that the time for debate is over. This issue has been debated and studied to death, and we cannot wait longer. Read Brett Mandel's editorial, go to Philadelphia Forward and get involved. The time is now.
Everyone who has studied the city and its problems agrees that this issue of taxation is of vital importance to the city's future, and yet nothing has happened. Mandel details the recent history of this issue, including the numerous studies that have been done, which have all reached the same conclusions. He mentions the economic forum that Street convened in the Fall of 2004, which was simply a joke and waste of money. Closed to the public and the press (another Street hallmark), its participants were not allowed to deviate far from the administration line that tax cuts are impossible.
It is an embarrassment that the 28 recommendations of the Philly Tax Reform Commission, which worked for an entire year studying the situation, have not been adopted. Street has stalled and stalled, looking for more studying. As Mandel says, "The time for study is over. The time for action is now." This was a commission created at the behest of voters, composed of members from all parts of society, from academics to labor to community groups. These rec is a product of hard work, deliberate thinking and the citizen's desires for a fairer tax system. There has been no effective argument against the implementation of this plan, just scare tactics aimed at those who rely on the city for various services.
The entire issue sums up this city's politcal culture, which seems content to spend its time telling us why things can't be, struggling to maintain the status quo. It makes sense for them, as they have viewed this city as a trough to benefit themselves, their families and their supporters. But, as the 21st Century Forum wrote, "The city should move quickly to adopt the major recommendations of the Tax Reform Commission... Some will question whether the city... can afford significant tax reform at this time, but that is the wrong question. Rather, we should ask how we can afford not to reform taxes now." This is the essence of the struggle that is going on here, as Philly's leaders and citizens have thought about what we are not and what we cannot be. Those who do are living in the past, and should be left back there. Hopefully, this issue can come to the forefront, another plank in the fight to take this city into the 21st Century, along with ethics reform.
I must confess that I know that nothing good will happen during our current Mayor's term, as he is more concerned with presiding over a dying city than facing hard decisions and standing up to his supporters. I challenge this Mayor to make the same committment that the Tax Commission made to attract or retain 47,000 jobs by 2010 and 175,000 jobs by 2017. Will he do this? Since he does not believe in reducing the tax burden, how will he add jobs to the city? If tax cuts were legitimate for the Cira Center, Comcast's proposed tower and new homes, why is a comprehensive plan not legitimate? For those who have argued against tax reform, like the city's unions, please explain your plan to grow our economy. How do you envision the city growing in jobs and people? Or are you only concerned with your members' lives and futures? Since service cuts are your greatest fear, do you acknowledge that any contuining decline in population and jobs will inevitably lead to a smaller tax base and less money to pay for services?
These are obviously loaded questions, but that is because I think that the time for debate is over. This issue has been debated and studied to death, and we cannot wait longer. Read Brett Mandel's editorial, go to Philadelphia Forward and get involved. The time is now.
Tuesday, March 22, 2005
University City Stand Up
I have mentioned the changes that have been happening in West Philly over the last decade, a result of the University of Pennsylvania's committment to the neighborhood. The University City District put together a study that has confirmed the enormous progress in the neighborhood. The Philadelphia Inquirer finally took time to notice, and did a nice piece on the resurgence of University City over the past decade. It is a wonderful story amid all of the negative developments of the past few weeks in Philly. I won't even mention specifics, as everything is worth noting.
Future projects that have started include the Cira Center office tower, the expansion of Children's Hospital and the eventual development of a life-sciences center in the former 30th Street Station mail annex. I cannot wait to see what comes next, and what new developments are spurred on by the developments above.
Philly Future has already covered this, rightfully noting that it is about time this success is noted. Philadelphia: America's Hometown continues to lead the field, laying all of this out. He also mentions another new development, this one a $100 million construction at the northwest corner of 34th and Chestnut. It will add high-end apartments and stores, bringing more people and money to the neighborhood, and possibly connecting UPenn and Drexel more.
Some questions: what should city government do for University City? What lessons can other neighborhoods take from this rebirth? What has been the keys to this success, and what is necessary to continue this progress? What can North Philly or Southwest Philly take from the University City District and Center City District, which are models for non-governmental neighborhood investment? What will University City look like in another decade? Will it become our Cambridge? Will it extend its reach further into West Philly? So much more to come on all these issues, as it is exciting to think of the possibilites.
Future projects that have started include the Cira Center office tower, the expansion of Children's Hospital and the eventual development of a life-sciences center in the former 30th Street Station mail annex. I cannot wait to see what comes next, and what new developments are spurred on by the developments above.
Philly Future has already covered this, rightfully noting that it is about time this success is noted. Philadelphia: America's Hometown continues to lead the field, laying all of this out. He also mentions another new development, this one a $100 million construction at the northwest corner of 34th and Chestnut. It will add high-end apartments and stores, bringing more people and money to the neighborhood, and possibly connecting UPenn and Drexel more.
Some questions: what should city government do for University City? What lessons can other neighborhoods take from this rebirth? What has been the keys to this success, and what is necessary to continue this progress? What can North Philly or Southwest Philly take from the University City District and Center City District, which are models for non-governmental neighborhood investment? What will University City look like in another decade? Will it become our Cambridge? Will it extend its reach further into West Philly? So much more to come on all these issues, as it is exciting to think of the possibilites.
Random Thoughts
-I am going to introduce a bill that would require Billy Rafferty, the only good CBS NCAA Tournament announcer, to narrate my every move each day. I truly believe that his excitement and energy would make the mundane aspects of my week exponentially better. When I wake in the morning, he would have me completely psyched up for the rest of the day. After some girl doesn't call, he could tell some random anecdote about his playing days in the 50s and all would be better. Of course, I would demand that he do his signature phrases, "Da KISS off the glass" and "They come out in MANTOMAN!", although it will be decided in the future how this can be worked into my life. Regardless, Billy would bring excitement and energy to my life, and I would be able to sleep the sleep of the contented.
[This bill would be an add-on to another piece of legislation that I wrote nearly 5 years ago that required the music played during the football sequences in Varsity Blues be played anywhere that I am. On the streets, in stores, at bars, etc. Nothing bad ever happens in movies when hard rock plays, and so I hope to translate that to my own life. No one breaks up or gets dumped, no one gets their feelings hurt or questions their life, no one worri in movies to this soundtrack. Unfortunately, I believe that this man is following me around, singing about rain, heartbreak and lost love. Stop following me, Adam! Go put out a fucking album, and think about what you are trying to do with your life. Anyway, this is my present theory on what is holding me back, and I will keep everyone informed of the next excuse I come up with shortly.]
[An amendment was tacked on that would require me to speak in a horrible Southern accent, and once a day emphatically telling an older man, "I don't want your life!" I have agreed to this, but refuse to accept language put in by Rick Santorum that would have me wearing a whipped cream bikini and propositioning him. ]
-Should I cut my hair? It is longish now, and I am wondering if I should continue into the hipster/hippie aesthetic, or clean up? I leave it up to my cherished readers.
-Being single is for the birds. I am done with it, for real. The focus has shifted again, because if you ain't grindin', you ain't shinin'. Love don't make Bentleys and pink diamonds, yamean? I am a rock/I am an island. My bols Simon and Art knew what was up 40 years ago.
-It was nice to see Diplo and M.I.A. together last night, as they are such a cute couple. Sadly, I am unsure who I was more jealous of, a la Jerry when Elaine and Keith Hernandez dated. (No homo?) I look forward to a day in the future when Mrs. Pound for Pound and I sit next to each other, faces staring into our Mac screens, linking not only to important stories, but also to each other's hearts.
-I will be participating in a hip-hop dance class at my gym tonight.
-Coffee is the new beer, and I shall be rocking out at my coffee spots even more now.
-Lots of stuff coming to Pound for Pound in the next few days, so check back frequently. It's about to get real ugly in here. If you scared, get the f*ck out.
[This bill would be an add-on to another piece of legislation that I wrote nearly 5 years ago that required the music played during the football sequences in Varsity Blues be played anywhere that I am. On the streets, in stores, at bars, etc. Nothing bad ever happens in movies when hard rock plays, and so I hope to translate that to my own life. No one breaks up or gets dumped, no one gets their feelings hurt or questions their life, no one worri in movies to this soundtrack. Unfortunately, I believe that this man is following me around, singing about rain, heartbreak and lost love. Stop following me, Adam! Go put out a fucking album, and think about what you are trying to do with your life. Anyway, this is my present theory on what is holding me back, and I will keep everyone informed of the next excuse I come up with shortly.]
[An amendment was tacked on that would require me to speak in a horrible Southern accent, and once a day emphatically telling an older man, "I don't want your life!" I have agreed to this, but refuse to accept language put in by Rick Santorum that would have me wearing a whipped cream bikini and propositioning him. ]
-Should I cut my hair? It is longish now, and I am wondering if I should continue into the hipster/hippie aesthetic, or clean up? I leave it up to my cherished readers.
-Being single is for the birds. I am done with it, for real. The focus has shifted again, because if you ain't grindin', you ain't shinin'. Love don't make Bentleys and pink diamonds, yamean? I am a rock/I am an island. My bols Simon and Art knew what was up 40 years ago.
-It was nice to see Diplo and M.I.A. together last night, as they are such a cute couple. Sadly, I am unsure who I was more jealous of, a la Jerry when Elaine and Keith Hernandez dated. (No homo?) I look forward to a day in the future when Mrs. Pound for Pound and I sit next to each other, faces staring into our Mac screens, linking not only to important stories, but also to each other's hearts.
-I will be participating in a hip-hop dance class at my gym tonight.
-Coffee is the new beer, and I shall be rocking out at my coffee spots even more now.
-Lots of stuff coming to Pound for Pound in the next few days, so check back frequently. It's about to get real ugly in here. If you scared, get the f*ck out.
Attytood
I wanted to give another update to the blogroll, as I have added Attytood to my links list on the right. Attytood is the work of William Bunch, writer for the Philadelphia Daily News. I have been reading it for the past week or two, and have been amazed at the quality and depth of writing over there. Bol is covering Philly, national politics, sports, pop culture, everything under the sun, all with intelligence, humor and, yes, attitude.
Go over and check for yourself, as I think that it will become a daily read for everyone. If you have doubts, let me just me quote from this recent post:
We at Attytood Sports have a tried-and-true technique that helps us formulate opinions on the hot topic of the day: Read whatever Stephen A. Smith writes in the morning Inquirer and -- just like "Seinfeld"'s George Costanza -- think and do "the opposite."
Perfect is all I can say. Anyone who has seen or read the Philadelphia Inquirer's Stephen A. Smith, loudmouth extraordinaire, should be nodding their head right now. The whole post is spot on, calling out all sports journalists for their fawning coverage of baseball during the heart of the steroids era.
Anyway, go over and read for yourself one of the best blogs going. This shit is the blueprint for Pound for Pound, and I hope one day to get to this level.
Go over and check for yourself, as I think that it will become a daily read for everyone. If you have doubts, let me just me quote from this recent post:
We at Attytood Sports have a tried-and-true technique that helps us formulate opinions on the hot topic of the day: Read whatever Stephen A. Smith writes in the morning Inquirer and -- just like "Seinfeld"'s George Costanza -- think and do "the opposite."
Perfect is all I can say. Anyone who has seen or read the Philadelphia Inquirer's Stephen A. Smith, loudmouth extraordinaire, should be nodding their head right now. The whole post is spot on, calling out all sports journalists for their fawning coverage of baseball during the heart of the steroids era.
Anyway, go over and read for yourself one of the best blogs going. This shit is the blueprint for Pound for Pound, and I hope one day to get to this level.
Monday, March 21, 2005
M.I.A. Concert Last Night
Just a quick update on the M.I.A. show in North Philly last night, as it was a great night. Clearly, few people slept on this show, as evidenced by the huge line outside the U.A.C.A. before the doors opened at 9. I imagine that it was a sell-out, and Pound for Pound will take undeserved credit for this because of my previous post.
It was a strange evening, as being at the Ukie Club with Hollertronix calls for a crazy Saturday night with everyone wildin' out. However, this was a concert, and I suspect that at least half of the crowd had never been to a Tronix party. Not a bad thing; it just led to a reserved evening with more of a show feeling than I anticipated.
Spankrock got things started at 10:30, doing his completely unique act. I have heard of his music for a minute now, and look forward to checking out more. Sound was not the greatest for his set, as his vocals were a little low. The beats, however, killed, with a hip-hop, Baltimore club sound. Check here for more info, as you can get in on the ground floor.
M.I.A. got started around 11:30, and totally exceeded my expectations. I knew that Maya had not played alot of live shows, and expected that things would be inconsistent at best. I was wrong, as the songs sounded great, her vocals and rhymes were clear, and she commanded the room. The energy was incredible, as the place was loud and peeps were there to hear her music. Hype might have sold the show out, but hype did not get people dancing and singing last night, so all of you Internet geeks hating need to get out from behind your computers.
After M.I.A. ended, the place cleared out. Diplo and Low Budget ended the night with a short DJ set. So you wanna be hardcore? Well, then you should have been there at 12:45 last night. dancing to Phil Collins and UGK's "Ridin' Spinners", or you don't know hardcore. There was 50 people at most, and it was the highlight of the night.
On a personal note, this night helped me get through a horrible weekend, one that had me lost in self-loathing. Thanks to TK and his crew, all the cute jawns, and really all the people who came out and made it such a great atmosphere. Props to R5 Productions for putting on another great show, as they are doing real big things. As always, thanks to Low Budget and Diplo for being the best in the game. Finally, thanks to TA, one of the best people alive. I can think of no one else that I would rather have hung out with last night, as her kindness and thoughtfulness help put the weekend behind me.
It was a strange evening, as being at the Ukie Club with Hollertronix calls for a crazy Saturday night with everyone wildin' out. However, this was a concert, and I suspect that at least half of the crowd had never been to a Tronix party. Not a bad thing; it just led to a reserved evening with more of a show feeling than I anticipated.
Spankrock got things started at 10:30, doing his completely unique act. I have heard of his music for a minute now, and look forward to checking out more. Sound was not the greatest for his set, as his vocals were a little low. The beats, however, killed, with a hip-hop, Baltimore club sound. Check here for more info, as you can get in on the ground floor.
M.I.A. got started around 11:30, and totally exceeded my expectations. I knew that Maya had not played alot of live shows, and expected that things would be inconsistent at best. I was wrong, as the songs sounded great, her vocals and rhymes were clear, and she commanded the room. The energy was incredible, as the place was loud and peeps were there to hear her music. Hype might have sold the show out, but hype did not get people dancing and singing last night, so all of you Internet geeks hating need to get out from behind your computers.
After M.I.A. ended, the place cleared out. Diplo and Low Budget ended the night with a short DJ set. So you wanna be hardcore? Well, then you should have been there at 12:45 last night. dancing to Phil Collins and UGK's "Ridin' Spinners", or you don't know hardcore. There was 50 people at most, and it was the highlight of the night.
On a personal note, this night helped me get through a horrible weekend, one that had me lost in self-loathing. Thanks to TK and his crew, all the cute jawns, and really all the people who came out and made it such a great atmosphere. Props to R5 Productions for putting on another great show, as they are doing real big things. As always, thanks to Low Budget and Diplo for being the best in the game. Finally, thanks to TA, one of the best people alive. I can think of no one else that I would rather have hung out with last night, as her kindness and thoughtfulness help put the weekend behind me.
Guns, Violence and Philadelphia
Over the last few months, gun violence in Philadelphia has dominated the news. While I support gun control legislation, it has never been an issue at the forefront of my thinking. I am not sure why, as it is clearly a fundamental problem for anyone confronting life in American cities. There are no excuses any more for people to ignore this issue, after some of the most deadly weeks in the city's history. There are too many guns on the streets, too many grieving families and too many lives cut short to ignore this problem anymore.
Read this Tom Ferrick piece from yesterday's Inquirer, as it is a good starting point. I agree wholeheartedly with the piece, as his outrage at our state legislature is the right target. They have shown that their loyalty is to the gun lobby, rural Pennsylvanians and an ideology. A poor reading of the Second Amendment trumps the concerns and lives of Philadelphians. As Ferricks writes:
I'll be more direct. Gun violence is viewed in Harrisburg as a "Philadelphia problem," which is to say a black problem. The majority of homicide victims and perps in the city are African American males under the age of 30.
I like the piece of legislation brought by Rep. John Myers in Ferrick's piece, which would allow a person to buy only one gun per month. It strikes at the street salesmen, who purchase as many guns as they want and resell them to those whose criminal records prevent them from making legal purchases. What are the objections to this law? What do you think? What are other proposals to stem the violence?
Will Bunch at Attytood has done a good job looking at this issue, as these recent posts here and here show. The 60 Minutes piece alone should bring action, and should solidify our place as a national disgrace and laughing-stock. I mean, for all the conservatives and NRA supporters who rail about terrorists and liberal appeasement, I am curious to hear their thoughts on the possibility that Islamic extremists might be purchasing large stocks of guns.
Karl at Philly Future has a nice overview of this issue, with more links, all under the ominous title, "Philly less safe than Iraq?" How sad is it that one could utter that phrase?
Finally, go here and see the current homocide tally for the city. It alone should spur everyone to work together to change things for the better, so that there are no .
Read this Tom Ferrick piece from yesterday's Inquirer, as it is a good starting point. I agree wholeheartedly with the piece, as his outrage at our state legislature is the right target. They have shown that their loyalty is to the gun lobby, rural Pennsylvanians and an ideology. A poor reading of the Second Amendment trumps the concerns and lives of Philadelphians. As Ferricks writes:
I'll be more direct. Gun violence is viewed in Harrisburg as a "Philadelphia problem," which is to say a black problem. The majority of homicide victims and perps in the city are African American males under the age of 30.
So, the reasoning goes, why spend political capital and incur the wrath of the National Rifle Association over a bunch of lowlife blacks in Philly?
Finally, someone has the balls to tell the truth. Does anyone doubt that this is the thought process going on in Harrisburg? Can anyone defend this, without reading from the NRA talking points? I can't help but wonder what it would take to get them to act in our interest, since clearly headlines, dead bodies and crying parents don't do it. I mean, the Representative in Ferrick's column who will kill the one-gun-a-month bill is from Philly! Rep. Dennis O'Brien has to answer what he is doing about the violence in the city, come to our neighborhoods and tell us what his plan is to make our city safer. If he can't, he must be defeated. Here is his contact info, so write, call, email and see what he says.I like the piece of legislation brought by Rep. John Myers in Ferrick's piece, which would allow a person to buy only one gun per month. It strikes at the street salesmen, who purchase as many guns as they want and resell them to those whose criminal records prevent them from making legal purchases. What are the objections to this law? What do you think? What are other proposals to stem the violence?
Will Bunch at Attytood has done a good job looking at this issue, as these recent posts here and here show. The 60 Minutes piece alone should bring action, and should solidify our place as a national disgrace and laughing-stock. I mean, for all the conservatives and NRA supporters who rail about terrorists and liberal appeasement, I am curious to hear their thoughts on the possibility that Islamic extremists might be purchasing large stocks of guns.
Karl at Philly Future has a nice overview of this issue, with more links, all under the ominous title, "Philly less safe than Iraq?" How sad is it that one could utter that phrase?
Finally, go here and see the current homocide tally for the city. It alone should spur everyone to work together to change things for the better, so that there are no .
Thursday, March 17, 2005
Philadelphia: America's Hometown
No, this is not about a new drama that I am proposing for CBS's Tuesday night line-up. It is actually the name of one of the best blogs around, and the next addition to the Pound for Pound list on the right-hand side.
Much like Philly Future, Philadelphia: America's Hometown is looking at recent news and events in the city and attempting to bring people together to deal with the issues facing us. Best of all, the attitude is upbeat, focusing on the good developments in the city and how we can build on those successes. Whether its the condo market or the changes that Paul Vallas has introduced to the school system, Friedman has it covered. I have already linked to his site in previous posts, and will continue to do so quite often as we go along. Bol is doing really big things, and I recommend that everyone make America's Hometown a daily stop.
I am honored that he has put Pound for Pound on his links lists, as it is nice to be among so many people dedicated to Philly. This is a movement, people, and y'all better get on board.
Much like Philly Future, Philadelphia: America's Hometown is looking at recent news and events in the city and attempting to bring people together to deal with the issues facing us. Best of all, the attitude is upbeat, focusing on the good developments in the city and how we can build on those successes. Whether its the condo market or the changes that Paul Vallas has introduced to the school system, Friedman has it covered. I have already linked to his site in previous posts, and will continue to do so quite often as we go along. Bol is doing really big things, and I recommend that everyone make America's Hometown a daily stop.
I am honored that he has put Pound for Pound on his links lists, as it is nice to be among so many people dedicated to Philly. This is a movement, people, and y'all better get on board.
Fuck the Grammar Police
You just know I had to say more about the article by Clyde Haberman, which got Pound for Pound quite upset. It saddens me to read in the year 2005 a piece criticizing hip-hop and urban youth for bad grammar, an article that has little purpose other than to show how poorly black people speak and denigrate hip-hop as a joke. Is this what passes for good opinion writing today? The New York Times cannot find a fucking writer who can write eloquently about the most important cultural movement of the last 25 years. The only thing worth mentioning in hip-hop is the Lil' Kim trial and 50 Cent-Game beef? Pathetic.
It's amusing to read a writer writing about New York City upset over bad grammar. Haberman clearly has his ear to the streets, as everyone in the five boroughs speaks like an Oxford professor. Hell, the North American editor of the Oxford English Dictionary, Jesse Sheidlower, says that rap grammar "is grammatically interesting," and that "it's not random, and it's not sloppy." NYC, perhaps more than anywhere in the world, is a laboratory for language, a home to a multitude of languages and dialects, all of which add and mutate the English spoken. There is no language Eden, and this upsets the elitists and regressives that make up the conservative movement.
It puts me in mind of the furor over ebonics from a few years ago, when every conservative and idiot at the National Review suddenly became a linguist. It amazes me how they care so much for the speech patterns of minorities and poor people, but the lives and neighborhoods of these same people are none of their concern. It also amazes me how deaf these critics are to the actual findings of linguists, who have been arguing for years that there is no perfect English. Does anyone still believe in the linguistic purists like who have been so thoroughly discredited? [See here and here for the views of those who studied this issue, as opposed to those looking to make cheap points on the backs of the minorities and the poor]
For those preparing their witty "Pound for Pound is too sensitive" or "I hate you P.C. police pussies", explain to me the point of the final lines in the article:
For his part, Mr. Cent had trouble reading a prepared statement. Maybe it was because the words were spelled right.
I imagine that some will try to come up with a rationale, but let's not kid ourselves. Haberman is postulating that 50 Cent is an idiot, borderline illiterate. This piece is just another attack on young, black males, following up on those of accused sexual predator Bill Cosby, on the poor, on youth culture and on the cities. It's sad that this is the best writing that the NY Times, paper of record, can find about one of the greatest cities on earth.
It's amusing to read a writer writing about New York City upset over bad grammar. Haberman clearly has his ear to the streets, as everyone in the five boroughs speaks like an Oxford professor. Hell, the North American editor of the Oxford English Dictionary, Jesse Sheidlower, says that rap grammar "is grammatically interesting," and that "it's not random, and it's not sloppy." NYC, perhaps more than anywhere in the world, is a laboratory for language, a home to a multitude of languages and dialects, all of which add and mutate the English spoken. There is no language Eden, and this upsets the elitists and regressives that make up the conservative movement.
It puts me in mind of the furor over ebonics from a few years ago, when every conservative and idiot at the National Review suddenly became a linguist. It amazes me how they care so much for the speech patterns of minorities and poor people, but the lives and neighborhoods of these same people are none of their concern. It also amazes me how deaf these critics are to the actual findings of linguists, who have been arguing for years that there is no perfect English. Does anyone still believe in the linguistic purists like who have been so thoroughly discredited? [See here and here for the views of those who studied this issue, as opposed to those looking to make cheap points on the backs of the minorities and the poor]
For those preparing their witty "Pound for Pound is too sensitive" or "I hate you P.C. police pussies", explain to me the point of the final lines in the article:
For his part, Mr. Cent had trouble reading a prepared statement. Maybe it was because the words were spelled right.
I imagine that some will try to come up with a rationale, but let's not kid ourselves. Haberman is postulating that 50 Cent is an idiot, borderline illiterate. This piece is just another attack on young, black males, following up on those of accused sexual predator Bill Cosby, on the poor, on youth culture and on the cities. It's sad that this is the best writing that the NY Times, paper of record, can find about one of the greatest cities on earth.
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