Monday Apr 16

So who should sing this country classic tomorrow night?

Johnny Cash live at Folsum Prison

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M89c3hWx3RQ

Behind The Scenes Taylor Hicks Commercial

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HafgbLzqRlY

GOSPEL ARTIST MANDISA PENS NEW BOOK: Former ‘American Idol’ contestant talks about Faith, Fat and Fame.

During the fifth season of American Idol, Mandisa sang her way into the hearts of millions. Although she didn’t win, the ‘Idol’ experience helped propel the gospel singer’s career to a higher level…

http://eurweb.com/story/eur32839.cfm

This ‘Idol’ faces a busy night at country awards

Kellie Pickler knows well the way “American Idol” can be a life-changing experience……….

http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv/2007/04/16/2007-04-16_this_idol_faces_a_busy_night_at_country_.html

Good moning everyone. Thanks goodness the sun is shining this morning, and the temperature is rising.. It’s been a long wet cold weekend..

CMT Awards Honoree Kris Kristofferson Spins Some Yarns

…
TVGuide.com: Some of modern country’s stars came from reality shows, like American Idol and Nashville Star. What do you think of those shows?
Kristofferson: Those Idol shows are kind of scary to me. They wanted me to be on one of those panels one time, and I said it’s the last thing in the world I’d ever want to do. I would hate to have to discourage somebody. [Laughs] To me, if you love it enough to devote your life to it, then you’re doing the right thing.

http://www.tvguide.com/News-Views/Interviews-Features/Article/default.aspx?posting={A269483D-E6B0-4513-A01C-A2A39F76957E}

Oh whine, whine, whine! We have snowflakes the size of golfballs here. Why donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t you burn some calories by cleaning your house or whipping up a home-cooked meal?

Can anyone guess who took her bitch pills this morning???

Cable TV rides the tween wave
Live-action programs overtake cartoons for the 9-14 set

…”Tweens are a hard-to-reach audience for (broadcast) networks, and therefore cable networks have been making it their sweet spot,” said Rachel Geller of youth-marketing firm Geppetto Group, which estimates the 8-to-12 set spends $51 billion. “Tweens are more like children” than teens: “They hold onto their loyalties much longer.”

Though Fox’s “American Idol” is tops among tweens (10 percent of its audience), the kid-focused networks increasingly are seeking older fans….

http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070416/LIFE/704160315/1005

Country music fest draws crowds

A few “American Idol” cast-offs, some big-name acts and one or two up-and-comers added a boost of interest in this year’s hhgregg Country Music Expo……

http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070416/ENTERTAINMENT04/704160358/-1/ZONES04

COWELL’S GIRLFRIEND: ‘I’M NOT DUMPING HIM OVER KIDS’

SIMON COWELL’s girlfriend TERRI SEYMOUR has hit out at reports she will dump the music mogul if he continues to refuse her children.
The model/TV presenter, 33, has been dating the AMERICAN IDOL judge since 2002, despite his insistence they will never marry or have kids together.
Seymour says, “Everyone knows he doesn’t want marriage and kids. Although marriage doesn’t really bother me as my own mum raised me on her own, I definitely want a baby some time down the road.
“But it’s never something we discuss. We’re happy the way we are and I’m not worrying about it just yet.
“Somebody wrote I was going to dump him if we didn’t have children together but that’s not true.”

http://www.pr-inside.com/cowell-s-girlfriend-i-m-not-dumping-him-r93722.htm

Plagued by false ‘Idol’s

The other day, my Facebook News Feed (a feature I’ve always secretly enjoyed since its alarming addition last fall) announced that nine of my friends had joined the group “Sanjaya went to my high school he has my vote!!!!”

I knew Sanjaya Malakar, the Indian-American 17-year-old who’s taken the latest season of “American Idol” by storm, was from Seattle. Last time I checked, though, I didn’t know one person – and certainly not nine – from his hometown of Federal Way, which lies nearly 40 miles south of my northern suburb….

http://media.www.dailytrojan.com/media/storage/paper679/news/2007/04/16/Lifestyle/Plagued.By.False.idols-2842030.shtml

‘American Idol’ atrophy Features
The ratings giant has started to lose even its most dedicated fans

From the vast multitudes of hardcore, sign-carrying fans to the hordes of outspoken mud-slinging bloggers, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“American Idolà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  elicits high levels of emotion in people à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  love it or hate it, almost everyone has an opinion. The ratings monster and cultural icon has achieved unparalleled successes in its stay at the top of Americaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s television ratings.

According to The Indianapolis Star, more votes were cast in last yearà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“American Idolà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  finale than for any one president in American history. Not bad for a show that was passed on by ABC, NBC, CBS, and The WB before finally finding a home at the Fox network. But according to some current and former fans à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  along with recent ratings declines and ongoing controversy à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  Americaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s love affair with à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Idolà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  may be wearing thin…..

http://www.advancetitan.com/story.asp?issue=11349&story=6126

LaKisha, other show hopefuls are in full gear every day of contest

Imagine working 15 hours a day, seven days a week, six months out of one very special year for so-so pay, and you’ve got a glimmer of what life is like inside the bubble that is the world of “American Idol” contestants…..

http://blog.mlive.com/idolchatter/2007/04/lidol_bubble.html

Daughtry proves intense, formulaic

…But the intense singer hasn’t connected so readily because he’s some phenomenal, original artist. Quite the opposite, actually.

Daughtry has nailed a formula early in his career: appeal to the masses and hear the music of that ka-ching.

TIMES-DISPATCH

Is Richardson romance story just ‘Idol’ chitchat?

THIS JUST IN à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦

How dare People magazine suggest that Chesapeakeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“American Idolà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  contestant, Chris Richardson, may be having a romance with Alaina Alexander, who was bumped from the competition some time ago?…

http://content.hamptonroads.com/story.cfm?story=122888&ran=126501

Can anyone guess who took her bitch pills this morning???

Well, we can’t all be as organically truculent as you are.

Daughtry shows his skills and his Hootie-ness

…Another Hootie similarity is that Daughtry’s set suffered from too many samey songs, exacerbated by the fact that the show’s best moment was a cover. But just like with Hootie back in the day, the crowd was too caught up in the moment to care much, and why not? Daughtry has come a long way since his old band Absent Element played Walnut Creek in 2004 — a Saturday morning gig in the parking lot. No doubt, he found this audience a lot more appreciative.

Daughtry has about three onstage moves, which he worked repeatedly: throwing water over the crowd, holding his microphone out to the audience and striking a heroic pose with a foot up on the monitor…

http://www.newsobserver.com/105/story/564612.html

Here’s proof: Rod Stewart still has a good show
His penchant for singing others’ songs works, and it shows.

Given his gravelly voice, ridiculous stage movements and equally silly mullet/pompadour hairdo, Rod Stewart seems an unlikely pop star.

Stewart worked over the crowd of 7,000 with a formula that has been enormously successful with “American Idol.” Stewart is a great singer, but his real strength is choosing great songs from other performers. He didn’t deviate from that Saturday night, mixing his own songs with works by nearly a dozen other artists…..

http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070416/ENT04/704160330/-1/LIFE04

HOT DISH: Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes?
Carrie Underwood Leads the List of Those Hoping for a Perfect Fit

…Both girls are simply great and gorgeous but should not be compared. Carrie’s background was solid. She went to college. On the other hand, Kellie’s background was very iffy. Her mama left, her daddy was in prison, and her grandma tried until she died. But there was also her grandpa. Thank goodness, he would not let her back out of the American Idol auditions in Greensboro, N.C…

…Then there’s Bucky Covington, another American Idol finalist. Bucky brought me a Carolina blue hydrangea plant when he visited my kitchen as a guest on CMT’s Southern Fried Flicks With Hazel Smith. A likable guy, Bucky is taller and better looking than his TV appearances and photos allow…

http://www.cmt.com/news/articles/1557125/20070413/underwood__carrie.jhtml

‘Idol’ setting wrong tone?

I address a nation recently torn asunder. I’m referring to the rift caused by Sanjaya Malakar, the hardy-as-a-cockroach contender on this year’s “American Idol.” Strange visitor from the planet Hairdo, the 17-year-old with the Colgate smile charmed his way into the Top 10 on this, America’s most popular TV show, despite his rather modest gifts as a singer. On second thought, I wouldn’t call them gifts at all….

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-0704150340apr16,1,4608164.story?coll=chi-newsnationworld-hed

Daughtry has about three onstage moves, which he worked repeatedly: throwing water over the crowd, holding his microphone out to the audience and striking a heroic pose with a foot up on the monitor. Still, he seems like a genuinely nice fellow who hasn’t let stardom change him much. He poked fun at himself after knocking over his microphone with a beachball and skillfully deflected the, shall we say, more avid enthusiasms of some female audience members.

“See that man right there?” Daughtry said, gesturing toward a guitar tech. “He’s single, I’m not.”

________________________

Man, he’s worked up to three onstage moves now.. Good going little d..
Glad to know that he is keeping some of those obsessive and crazed groupie fans in their place though by letting them know he is NOT available..Hope he can stay TRUE to his conviction..

Good morning. I finally got to see Taylor last night where it was apparently both Lame Setlist Night and No Encore Night at the Birchmere. Here’s some random stuff:

* Mr. Cheese has a crush on Toby Lightman
* Kerri is Hot, as is KerriMom. Mr. Cheese thought Kerri looked 17 and her mom looked my age. Grrrrrr
* Compared to What, Medicated Goo and Hell of a Day were awesome. My Friend was pretty cool, too. The Right Place seemed a little rushed.
* GMT and DMA still suck and had me staring into my martini glass hoping my husband wouldn’t make give me too much shit for liking a singer who would actually sing these songs
* Every time Taylor said he was singing something off of the new album, Mr. cheese sighed and texted “Kill me now” to one of his friends (He did enjoy some of it. I think.)
* Taylor only tagged about five lines the whole night. Most songs were served short and straight up. Poo.

I shouldn’t give the impression that I didn’t have a great time, I just wanted a great vocal showcase like Run Baby Run or an acoustic number or lots and lots of great tags or something, or at the very least, an encore. I don’t know if there was a time limit imposed by the venue? I was back in the car by 9:45. Weird. It was just not quite what I had come to expect from following the tour thus far.

Bucky’s album got a very nice review in the NYTimes. If someone can just give me simple directions on how to do a link, I’ll post it.

Chris R is a worse singer than Sanjaya, or at least as bad. Of course, no one in the media would ever pick up on that.

cheese — What time did Taylor start singing? His concerts are running approximately 90 minutes. I wonder if he’s sick again.

Weird. It was just not quite what I had come to expect from following the tour thus far.
____________________________________

I am taking into consideration that perhaps the SILENCE rule at the Birchmere played a BIG part in Taylor’s performance last night..
I bellieve that Taylor gets alot of his energy from his audience..

I am taking into consideration that perhaps the SILENCE rule at the Birchmere played a BIG part in Taylorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s performance last night..

What silence rule?

New Spoiler List from Scrappy at VFTW… these seem more real than the others, but again, this is a new source and could probably be taken with a grain of salt:

1. Phil Stacey – “Ain’t Goin’ Down Till The Sun Goes Up” by Garth Brooks
2. Jordin Sparks – “You’re Still The One” by Shania Twain
3. Sanjaya Malakar – “Boot Scootin Boogie” by Brooks & Dunn
4. Lakisha Jones – “Concrete Angel” by Martina McBride
5. Chris Richardson – “Over And Over” by Nelly and Tim McGraw
6. Melinda Doolittle – “Why Haven’t I Heard From You” by Reba McEntire
7. Blake Lewis – “Come A Little Closer” by Dierks Bentley

Scrappy: These are real. I have connections to Martina’s camp.

Chris R is a worse singer than Sanjaya, or at least as bad. Of course, no one in the media would ever pick up on that.
________________________________-

I agree..

cheese…The person doing the cellcert last night talked to one of the band members. They were under a tight time constraint by the venue.

What silence rule?

The Birchmere requests SILENCE when the performers are on stage..To my understanding there is a card on each table that request that out of curtesy to the performer you remain SILENT during the show.. Can you imagine the Soul Patrol being quiet?

Did people know about this silence rule prior to purchasing tickets or showing up at the venue? Cause if not, what a shock and major bummer–to Tay and the fans–that must have been!

3. Sanjaya Malakar – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Boot Scootin Boogieà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  by Brooks & Dunn

__________________________

Wonder if Sanjaya knows how to BOOT SCOOT? LOL
That’s a FUN song for sure..GO Sanjaya!!!!

cheeseà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦The person doing the cellcert last night talked to one of the band members. They were under a tight time constraint by the venue.

Hmm, well that’s just odd. Then why waste time singing DMA and GMT? Taylor, call me! (He’s at the same venue tonight, watch he’ll sing all the good stuff.) I think his set was only an hour and ten minutes, if that.

The Birchmere requests SILENCE when the performers are on stage..To my understanding there is a card on each table that request that out of curtesy to the performer you remain SILENT during the show.. Can you imagine the Soul Patrol being quiet?

How fuckin’ stupid is that??? This was a concert, not an audience with the pope.

Did people know about this silence rule prior to purchasing tickets or showing up at the venue? Cause if not, what a shock and major bummerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’to Tay and the fansà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’that must have been!

____________________
I’m certain many did NOT know when they purchased their ticket.
Some might have though if they had attended performances there in the past.

THANK GOD for sanjaya for yet again picking a fun song for me to enjoy. Always the risk taker, our little Sanjaya! Go Sanjaya! Make your hair proud!

Hmm, well thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s just odd. Then why waste time singing DMA and GMT? Taylor, call me! (Heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s at the same venue tonight, watch heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ll sing all the good stuff.) I think his set was only an hour and ten minutes, if that.

He is saving himself for Friday night, at the Beacon, cause he knows if he gives a shit concert I will kick his ass.

Ms. Mopey, Begone! Power Pop Is Back!

…
BUCKY COVINGTON

Bucky Covington is 29, and he has been a sort of famous singer for about a year. But he already seems to miss the good old days, and his debut album, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Bucky Covington,à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  is full of nostalgia for a simpler time…

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/04/16/arts/music/16choi.html?_r=1&ref=music&oref=slogin

organically truculent? :dunce_tb:

Isn’t Chris R. sort of cheating the theme with Over and Over? I hope he messes it up royally and provides one of the many trainwrecks of the nught.

Yay on Melinda and Sanjaya’s bold choices. Boo on Phil’s (used so many times on the show) and Jordin’s (way overplayed song). I’ve never heard of Blake’s though so I must go preview it. Lakisha’s either.

How fuckinà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ stupid is that??? This was a concert, not an audience with the pope.

There is logic behind it, I would think it’s to prevent people talking amongst themselves and totally ignoring the performer.

Most people who attend that venue would be aware of that fact.

He better be saving it all up for what I am sure is the highlight of his tour – Royal Oak, Michigan on Sunday. I mean, what soul singer wouldn’t be teetering with excitement to play a suburb of Motown? Royal Oak – home of Dr. Kevorkian!

Preston, thanks for the spoilers. I am not familiar with Blake’s song. I’ll have to go find it. I’m excited about Sanjaya’s choice. Should be fun!

A friend of mine from another board attended Wednesday’s results show and she let me post her behind-the-scenes observations at teamplaid.com. It’s worth a read.

He better be saving it all up for what I am sure is the highlight of his tour – Royal Oak, Michigan on Sunday. I mean, what soul singer wouldnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t be teetering with excitement to play a suburb of Motown? Royal Oak – home of Dr. Kevorkian!

Hmmmm, Michigan or one of the most prestigious venues in rock history. Personally, for selfish reasons as well, I’ll take the Beacon.

There is logic behind it, I would think ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s to prevent people talking amongst themselves and totally ignoring the performer.

I have never been to a venue with this policy. If you are going to pay $50 some odd dollars to see a performer, than most likely you are going to listen. Also, most performers feed off the energy of the audience. So, this policy makes no sense to me whatsoever.

jpfan – the Bucky NYTimes review was already posted at the end of yesterday’s thread.

Dierks Bentley – Come a Little Closer

http://youtube.com/watch?v=ao1XU3apU6I

Saw from recaps elsewhere that people experienced the Birchmere’s rules as overly restrictive. These particular folks had not previously frequented the venue–and it didn’t sound like they would again in the future.

I also read that Toby Lightman played for an hour. That’s twice as long as she usually plays. At the Beacon, we’ll give her 30 minutes max then we’ll bring out the hook.

The Birchmere

http://www.birchmere.com/food_menu.cfm

http://www.birchmere.com/tour7a.cfm

Thanks Lisa B.

Isn’t that song a little too suggestive for Idol? But then again, Blake is this supposed “rebel.”

Is that the song order as well? Blake in last?

Metta- I don’t think Toby Lightman is playing at the Beacon. She doesn’t have it listed on her website.

Well don’t know what’s happened here, but I keeping getting logged off and my posts take an age to submit.

The Birchmere wants everyone to enjoy themselves.
There are just a few simple rules that we ask you to follow:
Silence is requested while the performers are on stage
You must remain seated during the performance (Unless the dance floor is set up)
No audio recording
No video recording
No Cameras
That’s it. And you thought it would be a long list!
No smoking in the Music Hall. Smoking is only allowed in the bar area

LMAO at the Birchmere’s rules. Why don’t they just say “No fun”, and be done with it? Or–radical concept alert–let the performers decide if they want any of these rules enforced?

Lisa B – I’m not getting logged off but my posts are taking forever to submit. I found that if you just refresh while it is submitting, it submits immediately.

LisaB posted the Bucky review today as well. Thanks. That song for Blake seems way too “sexy” for idol but maybe they want some edge.
I don’t think the song order matters than much this year because it’s kind of obvious who’s leaving next (Phil, cough) unless Lakisha really bombs and then he goes next week. (Can someone still tell me how to link articles? Someone left instruction on this blog last week and I can’t find them. :redface_wp: Sorry to be so computer lame.)

Jersey – Ditto. Refreshing makes the comment post right away.

Well, I don’t mind Blake singing a sexy song. :cool1_tb: Thanks for the link, LisaB!

jpfan, you can just cut and paste the link into the submit box. That’s probably the easiest way.

I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think Toby Lightman is playing at the Beacon.

Whoo Hoo!!!

LMAO at the Birchmereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s rules. Why donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t they just say à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“No funà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ , and be done with it? Orà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’radical concept alertà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’let the performers decide if they want any of these rules enforced?

____________________________

Still wondering if Taylor was aware of the RULES when he was booked at this venue..

Apparently, It’s ALL about the music at The Birchmere.. The Soul Patrol should be able to relate to that concept.. LOL

Metta – I take that back, I just read Toby’s journal and she says she’s just been added at the last minute to the Beacon.

Well donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t know whatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s happened here, but I keeping getting logged off and my posts take an age to submit.

______________________

Lisa B, I’m experiencing the same.. Can’t even EDIT this morning..

Metta – I take that back, I just read Tobyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s journal and she says sheà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s just been added at the last minute to the Beacon.

Well, maybe I’ll kick JJ’s a$$ during Toby’s set.

Oh yeah, no edit button!

jersey
Apr 16th, 2007 at 10:35 am
Oh yeah, no edit button!

______________________–
Mine miraculously appeared…

toby and taylor are getting along great. and she even posted on her myspace that they are working on a future duet.

Thanks for the spoilers..

Phil picks a song done every year during country theme. booooring. I swear most of these kids have no musicality or knowledge of music past or present. (with Blake maybe being the exception) For me, that’s the real problem with this group – along with the fact none of them know how to work the stage.

Chris, the cheater. “Over and Over” is as much of a country song as “Smooth” is a latin number. But he may get “it’s current” praises from the judges – this years cliche.

Melinda will do well with that bluesy, gospel tune. I’m hoping for a nice pants outfit for this one. Please, no huge belt holding up the jugs.

Lakisha picked a good one. But it could get boring. It requires a LOT of feeling and connection – which we know isn’t her strong suit.

Sanjaya will not do so good. Unless he line dances and makes a fool of himself. Which he will no doubt.

Blake has a good choice. I don’t think it’s anymore more suggestive than a lot of songs already done on the show (cough Paris). I would have rather heard him do something upbeat though. He may bore us with this, unless he changes it up.

Jordan, I’ve got a coupon for some creativity. You should use it.

Isnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t that song a little too suggestive for Idol? But then again, Blake is this supposed à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“rebel.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ 

___________________________
IMO, YES considering this show claims to be geared for family viewing.

Well, we canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t all be as organically truculent as you are.

See Metta, even this early in the morning your vocabulary is as sharp as ever..LOL

Oooh, the Birchmire does not allow dancing. Add that to the many other things the SP can spend time fussing about..

Am with anyone who says Chris cannot sing but I will change my view of his looks. He is tied with Sanjaya in the cute department. But sorry, neither of them move me enough to say this season of AI is a good season.

toby and taylor are getting along great. and she even posted on her myspace that they are working on a future duet.
_______________________

Very interesting to say the least..

Monday Morning Mediabase Idol Airplay report. Artists/songs in alphabetical order, formats by ranking for each song. The number in brackets is the number on the chart the previous week.

Kelly Clarkson has hit the ground running. Despite being released part way through the week (and not officially having gone for adds), her new song is zooming up the charts. Go Kelly!

Bucky Covington
“A Different World” : 23 country (25)
“American Friday Night”: 74 Country (-)
“Back When We Were Go…”: 230 Country (-)
“Carolina Blue”: 97 Country (-)
“I’m Good”: 305 Country (-)

Carmen Rasmusen:
“Nothin’ Like the Sum…”: 108 Country (226)

Carrie Underwood
“Before He Cheats” : 10 HAC (11), 15 Pop (14), 28 AC (34), 413 Rhy (368)
“I Ain’t In Checotah”: 72 Country (165)
“Life in the Fast Lane”: 163 Country (-)
“Star Spangled Banner” : 98 Country (111)
“Wasted” : 1 Country (1), 119 HAC (130)

Clay Aiken
“A Thousand Days”: 174 HAC (-), 452 AC (101)
“Without You”: 428 AC (350)

Daughtry
“Home”: 22 Home (32), 22 Pop (30), 54 AC (61), 143 Alt (115), 638 Active (651)
“It’s Not Over”: 1 HAC (1), 2 Rock (2), 5 Pop (4), 18 Active (13), 19 AC (20), 22 Alt (18), 112 AAA (115), 373 Rhy (291)
“Rocket Man”: 83 HAC (75), 131 AC (438), 1285 Alt (1027)
“What I Want”: 43 Rock (47), 50 Active (60), 147 Alt (130)

Elliott Yamin
“A Song For You”: 119 AC (99)
“Every Breath You Take”: 153 HAC (-), 190 Pop (-), 931 Rhy (-)
“Find A Way”: 221 AC (165)
“Movin’ On”: 196 Pop (678), 367 AC (364), 792 Rhy (-)
“Stardust”: 208 AC (-)
“Trouble”: 250 AC (-)
“Wait For You”: 45 Pop (48), 67 AC (82), 71 HAC (92), 422 Rhy (324)

Fantasia:
“Hood Boy”: 151 UAC (125), 649 Rhy (714)
“I Feel Beautiful”: 373 UAC (703)
“I Nominate U”: 420 UAC (428), 655 Urban (511)
“Only One U”: 283 Urban (256)
“Surround U”: 1108 Urban (-)
“Two Weeks Notice”: 196 UAC (451), 299 Urban (318), 698 Rhy (476)
“When I see U”: 13 UAC (13), 21 Urban (23), 68 Rhy (71), 477 Pop (-)

George Huff:
“You Know Me”: 233 Gospel (276)

Jennifer Hudson:
“And I Am Telling You”: 7 UAC (6), 129 AC (104), 194 Rhy (185)
“Love You I Do”:

Josh Gracin
“Working For the Weekend”: 370 Country (297)

Katharine Mcphee
“Over It” : 21 Pop (24), 39 HAC (40), 52 AC (62), 147 Rhy (173)

Kellie Pickler
“I Wonder”: 26 Country (27)
“Thins that Never Cross…”: 165 Country (135)

Kelly Clarkson:
“Never Again”: 41 HAC (-), 42 Pop (-), 475 Rhy (475)
“Where is Your Heart”: 99 AC (86)

Kimberley Locke:
“Change”: 10 AC (13), 117 HAC (-), 341 Pop (-), 966 Rhy (-)

Mario Vazquez:
“One Shot” : 408 Rhy (419), 671 Pop (330)

Paris Bennett:
“Duet (f/J. Isaac)”: 856 Rhy (-)
“Ordinary Love”: 98 Urban (115)

Ruben Studdard
“Change Me”: 12 UAC (12), 151 AC (69), 644 Rhy (1116)
“If Only for One Night”: 296 UAC (450)
“Make You Feel Beautiful”: 9 UAC (10), 62 Urban (77), 514 Rhy (667)
“Rather Just Not Know”: 820 UAC (707)
“What Tha Business Is”: 878 UAC (266)

Taylor Hicks
“Just To Feel That Way”: 20 AC (22), 110 HAC (179)

This Season (Just checked the HAC, AC and Pop):

Blake Lewis:
“I Need to Know”: 143 HAC, 156 Pop, 174 AC
“Mack the Knife”: 321 Pop

Chris Richardson:
“Don’t Get Around Much”: 284 Pop
“Smooth”: 171 Pop

Haley Scarnato:
“Turn the Beat Around”: 435 Pop

Jordin Sparks:
“On a Clear Day”: 272 Pop
“Rhythm is Gonna Get You”: 152 Pop, 187 AC, 244 HAC

Lakisha Jones:
“Conga”: 170 AC, 499 Pop

Melinda Doolittle:
“I Got Rhythm”: 285 Pop
“Sway”: 239 AC

Phil Stacey:
“Maria, Maria”: 238 AC

Sanjaya Malakar:
“Besame Mucho”: 158 Pop, 175 HAC, 186 AC

“Sanjaya Anthem” (two different artists): 289 AC, 327 Pop, 469 Pop

Sanjaya will not do so good. Unless he line dances and makes a fool of himself. Which he will no doubt.

———————————

Anyone can BOOT SCOOT…Hopefully he is a FAST learner.

Jpfan just copy and paste the url from the page you want to link.

Oooh, the Birchmire does not allow dancing. Add that to the many other things the SP can spend time fussing about

Actually, I don’t think there’s a no dancing rule. Just a “No standing” rule. Presumably you can dance in your seat–which people apparently did. In any event, who are we to begrudge the SP their fussing?

See Metta, even this early in the morning your vocabulary is as sharp as ever

Did I mention to you guys that Sexygirl lives up to her name?

toby and taylor are getting along great. and she even posted on her myspace that they are working on a future duet.

One can hope this is done by Friday, or I might have to kick 3 asses on friday.

toby and taylor are getting along great. and she even posted on her myspace that they are working on a future duet.

I’m sure that is nothing more than one musican working with another. Didn’t you guys know, Taylor will be marry one of his beloved SPs…LOL

I’m sorry, I like Kelly C but this new single sounds just like since you’ve been gone..

Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m sure that is nothing more than one musican working with another. Didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t you guys know, Taylor will be marry one of his beloved SPs

I don’t think anyone was suggesting otherwise. Look where your mind automatically goes! If Tay wants an SP to marry, he should look no further than Sexy. She’s the whole package.

One can hope this is done by Friday, or I might have to kick 3 asses on friday.

What does this statement even mean?

Re: Phil potentially redoing that Garth Brooks song. I don’t think it’s so much a lack of “musicality” but an act of stupidity at this point not to study previous seasons to see what other people have sung.

Sooooo hope that is not his song and soooooo hope they don’t put him first. Takes a moment and reminds self that AI is not a singing competition….

I love Dierks Bentley and I LOVEEEEEEE that song. Thud!

eta: I really hate Kelly’s new single. It’s rehash pop-rock. I know she will get momentum from her last album, but unless there is something better on the new album, she could run into big trouble numbers-wise…and we all know hot the press loves to play the comparison game…

I actually think Taylor and Toby would sound awesome together. I do hope they are able to work out a duet for the Beacon.

I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s so much a lack of à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“musicalityà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  but an act of stupidity at this point not to study previous seasons to see what other people have sung.

I think it’s laziness and I think some of these people haven’t watched a single season of Idol (which can be a good thing). Sligh watched and studied every season of the show and look what it did for him – he overthought everything. That said, the Idols should make themselves aware of how many times a song has been performed.

Phil may do okay though. Who knows?

toby and taylor are getting along great. and she even posted on her myspace that they are working on a future duet.

Very cool. I think their voices would mesh very well.

BTW, last night at the movies I was “treated” to Kat’s insipid little video. It’s a real throw-it-at-the-wall-and-see-what-sticks approach, since the crowd at “The Namesake” didn’t exactly look like the type to run out and buy bubblegum pop albums.

I actually think Taylor and Toby would sound awesome together. I do hope they are able to work out a duet for the Beacon.

As long as the duet cuts into her set, not his. lmao – Actually, I like her CD a lot. It’s on medium rotation these days.

http://mjsbigblog.com/monday-apr-16.htm

This can’t be all I do. After I cut and paste, I hit link. Is that all there is to it. (Feeling very retarded right now)

since the crowd at à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“The Namesakeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t exactly look like the type to run out and buy bubblegum pop albums.

Hey! My Mom and I saw The Namesake last nite too. No sign of ***, though.

Actually, I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think thereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s a no dancing rule. Besides, who are we to begrudge the SP their fussing?

Yeah, you right Metta. I must say, Taylor is giving them a lot to work with whether he’s aware of it or not..lol

JJ, three butt kicking for the price of admission. What did I do to deserve such great entertainment..

Kirsten

Kelly Clarkson has hit the ground running. Despite being released part way through the week (and not officially having gone for adds), her new song is zooming up the charts. Go Kelly!

The numbers for Kelly’s single are pretty impressive for only being out three days (two of which were the weekend which are weighted a little more toward the countdown shows etc.). She could have a 1400-1600ish bullet and be in the high 20s/low 30s by the end of her first week. Or maybe even better than that.

Its a pretty good song too, nice to hear new stuff from her. It will be interesting to see how well it does after the initial rush.

Can anyone guess who took her bitch pills this morning???

Me?

Seriously, I live 11 miles from where I work. It usually takes me 25 minutes to get here from home. I still waited, hoping that my company would heed Acting Gov. Cody’s request and let us stay home in view of the “State of Emergency”, but noooooooo.

I gave myself a full hour of travel time today because I knew there was flooding on some of my normal routes.

It took me 2 1/2 HOURS to get to work.

That’s longer than it took jersey and me to get all the way back from Atlantic City on Saturday after Taylor’s show. To top it off, my meeting was cancelled the project that I had to come in to work on was postponed because a couple of the folks who needed to be here couldn’t get in because of the weather.

I can hardly WAIT for the return trip today. What a friggin’ mess. Grr.

I suppose I should actually do some work in the meantime, yes? LOL

Ahem. Sorry. Here endeth my rant.

One comment about the Birchmere…

I went to a performance many years ago at a place in Old Town Alexandria. It may have been the Birchmere but I don’t remember. In any event, there was then (and maybe still?) an long-standing ordinance banning dancing in old town. I kid you not. That being said, the performer then encouraged people to “dance” while seated, which was pretty funny. Most of the locals know all about it, but someone coming in from out of town (like me) would probably find it strange in this day in age. Maybe that has something to do with the Birchmere’s policies.

I would think that would an odd place for a performer like Taylor to choose, if he’d known.

I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think anyone was suggesting otherwise. Look where your mind automatically goes! If Tay wants an SP to marry, he should look no further than Sexy. Sheà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s the whole package.

Why all the sexy ass kissing. Sexy, are you wealthy or something????

What does this statement even mean?

OK, I will go real slow for you. Three means one more than two. Therefore, since I am already kicking your ass (that would be one). If Taylor and Toby don’t work out their duet by Friday, I would kick Taylor’s ass (That would be two) and Toby’s ass (That would be three). Do….we…..understand…..now?

You know if Toby and Taylor were an item, they would make the world’s most beautiful babies.

I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think anyone was suggesting otherwise. Look where your mind automatically goes! If Tay wants an SP to marry, he should look no further than Sexy. Sheà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s the whole package.

Actually, my mind was thinking duet also.. But, the idea of them hooking up was mentioned when GC existed.

Ahhh Metta, you’re so sweet but I would not want to deprive those who feel they have a chance. I’m a bit more realistic… Plus, I’m only a SP by default.lol

If Taylor and Toby donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t work out their duet by Friday, I would kick Taylorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s ass (That would be two) and Tobyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s ass

Toby Lightman looks like a pretty lady.

Just musing…. if Johnny Cash can marry his concert partner June Carter then …. ( Fill in the blanks here ).

You know if Toby and Taylor were an item, they would make the worldà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s most beautiful babies.

Toby Lightman looks like a pretty lady.

Just musingà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦. if Johnny Cash can marry his concert partner June Carter then à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦. ( Fill in the blanks here ).

Okay, I blame the direction this conversation has taken on Folkgirl.

Three means one more than two.

Did you have to use your fingers for that calculation?

Why all the sexy ass kissing. Sexy, are you wealthy or something????

Hmmm, girl you know Metta is indirectly talking to you. Either that or she did not have her morning coffee before she posted that comment. It should be against the law to post anything before you’re fully awake…

I’m starting to feel sorry for Taylor. He may be blinded by all the GORGEOUSNESS that will be hitting him this Friday at the BEACON.. JJ, the fact that you’re seated in front of us means that Mary, Metta, Jersey and myself won’t even get noticed..DAMN…

actually toby indicated it was a duet for a future recording. not for an upcoming show.

and no…i did not suggest the two were screwing each other. you all did that.

Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m starting to feel sorry for Taylor. He may be blinded by all the GORGEOUSNESS that will be hitting him this Friday at the BEACON.. JJ, the fact that youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re seated in front of us means that Mary, Metta, Jersey and myself wonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t even get noticed..DAMNà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦

I planned it that way.

MaryS, sending you hugs and kisses. :kiss_ee: Rant on girl..That’s all we can do sometimes..

It took me 2 1/2 HOURS to get to work.

That sucks, MaryS. See, now that’s a legit complaint, not like some others who whine about nonsense, like not getting to the gym.

and noà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦i did not suggest the two were screwing each other. you all did that.

Actually, it was JJ.

Here’s an interesting article to those of you interested in the music industry…

THE NEW ARTIST MODEL

http://www.futureofmusicbook.com/artists_and_writers/index.html

SNIPPET:

As we have been saying for years, it is quickly coming to a time when being a musician means finding ways to make money that do not include the sales of recordings. This has never been more true in the last 50 years than today, and will become more true with the passing of each week as we move forward.

In reality, this is the way is has been for most artists for the past 50 years. Only now the tide has turned, and the shifting sands of the music business will form around an entirely new promotional model that puts we, the music fans, at the very center of the circle. Ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s going to be entertaining to be sure.

JJ, the fact that youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re seated in front of us means that Mary, Metta, Jersey and myself wonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t even get noticed..

…by the bouncers. Her speedy and forcible removal from the venue will liberate Tay to perform the best show of the tour so far.

actually toby indicated it was a duet for a future recording. not for an upcoming show.
————

I was also thinking that could be what she was referring to when she
mentioned a duet could be in the works..

_________________________________

and noà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦i did not suggest the two were screwing each other. you all did that.
——————

NOT me, I wasn’t thinking that they were screwing each other already, but there is always HOPE for the future… that is…. if it meets with both their approval..

Actually, it was JJ.

Actually, if you could read, you would realize it was Sexy that suggested that. Also, I never suggested they were screwing, I said if they did, they would make beautiful babies.

and noà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦i did not suggest the two were screwing each other. you all did that.

Yeah, great set up

Isn’t it the last show for Toby tonight?

There seems to be a lot of tickets available for the Beacon.

http://www.newyorkcitytheatre.com/theaters/beacontheater/tickets.php?pid=466910&eventName=Taylor Hicks

Former Spice Girl to Publish Series of Children’s Books; Former Idol Carrie Underwood Makes History

…Country star Carrie Underwood makes history this week (week ending April 21) by taking the fourth single from her debut to Number One. No other female Country artist has topped the Country chart four times with a debut album. Carrie’s three previous Number Ones include “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” “Don’t Forget To Remember Me” and “Before He Cheats…

http://www.voanews.com/english/Entertainment/2007-04-16-voa18.cfm

Lisa B – according to Toby’s website, she’s opening for him tonight, tomorrow night, and on her journal page, she indicates that she is also now going to open at the Beacon on Friday.

There seems to be a lot of tickets available for the Beacon.

http://www.newyorkcitytheatre.com/theaters/beacontheater/tickets.php?pid=466910&eventName=Taylor Hicks

I think those are scalper tickets — look at the prices on them!

according to Tobyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s website, sheà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s opening for him tonight, tomorrow night, and on her journal page, she indicates that she is also now going to open at the Beacon on Friday.

_________________________

Maybe he thinks she’s a KEEPER…Y’all think maybe just maybe she’s gonna travel on that tour bus?

Thanks for the song spoilers Preston. My only question is how is Over and Over a country song?

there seems to be alot of tickets available for the beacon

It looks like approximatly 174 tickets on that site, the Beacon seats 2800. So that doesn’t seem like alot to me.

I read that Haley is on Ellen today and sings/sang True Colors.

Assuming spoilers are true…:

Over and Over? How is that a country song? Unless he only sings Tim McGraw’s part (which is what, about four lines?), I don’t see this working. Tsk tsk.

Oh, and I am very disappointed with Jordin’s song. I doubt this is her first choice though. Maybe something else was not cleared? She can’t be that bad when it comes to picking songs. Well, she better deliver great vocals and wows everybody, or else this might be a week that she hits the seal. I hope not. I like Jordin.

Actually, if you could read, you would realize it was Sexy that suggested that. Also, I never suggested they were screwing, I said if they did, they would make beautiful babies.

Not me, said the cat..Nope, never mentioned anything about screwing…But, I still love you JJ…

With 20% reporting from HDD (and I won’t do this all day, I promise)

Chris 7,807 (5)
Carrie 6,200
Elliott 2,109 (48)

Not me, said the cat..Nope, never mentioned anything about screwingà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦But, I still love you JJà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦

Ahhh my dear, you are the one that brought up that Taylor would marry one of his sp’ers, so you were the 1st one to make that link

Ahhh my dear, you are the one that brought up that Taylor would marry one of his spà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ers, so you were the 1st one to make that link

Yeah, you’re right. Taylor marrying one of his SPs, in their fantasy, and Taylor screwing Toby..Yep, I can see how I started that one..Shame on me..LOL

Thanks metta and sexygirl for commiserating after my travel travails. I’m still feeling sorry for myself because there are only two of us in the group today and have to cover for someone else who wisely took a personal day due to the weather. waaaaaah. /whine

You can see how hard I’m workin’ at the moment, right?

ETA: The just announced that our offices are closing early today. Yippee.

I look forward to seeing you all again on Friday!

Those ticket prices at the Beacon look very high. I would guess they will come down to close to face value a few days before the show if they don’t sell. That’s what happened for the American Idol tour, anyway.

As for Taylor and Toby collaborations… yes please! Anything more than that? :ponder_tb: Toblor… Tayby… :rolleyes_tb:

Wow.. Toby’s pretty hot. I hope Taylor’s getting some action- it’s good for the immune system (not really, but I just want him to get laid already).

I sure Taylor is getting laid nightly—I mean he is one sexy-hot man!!!

I hope Taylorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s getting some action- ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s good for the immune system (not really, but I just want him to get laid already).

Taylor’s probably getting more a** than a toilet seat.

Yeah, youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re right. Taylor marrying one of his SPs, in their fantasy, and Taylor screwing Toby..Yep, I can see how I started that one..Shame on me..LOL

I do love you. Metta’s only hope is for you to stand in-between her and me. I wouldn’t want to hurt that gorgeous face.

There was an interview last week that said Taylor was more into chess than groupies. But let your imaginations run wild…

There was an interview last week that said Taylor was more into chess than groupies. But let your imaginations run wildà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦

__________________________________________________________

Being into chess rather than groupies is a GOOD thing IMO..Indicates he probably prefers a challenge in reference to relationships..
Not having seen the article though, I’m wondering if perhaps he meant something completely different by the statement.
I could see someone stating they would rather play a game of chess than deal with a bunch of crazed groupies groping at you..

Ok, You guys know I moved the website to a dedicated server over the weekend right? I had to change the edit comments plugin because the old one was not working.

Somebody requested that I make the edit box larger, which I just did.

Are there any other problems or questions? Please let me know! Thanks.

You rock MJ. For real.

MJ..Thank you. Everything seems to be working on my end at this time.
Again, thank you for ALL that you do to keep this site up and running…

ok….weird info….i just learned toby lightman has a lazy eye. and she does an awesome cover of mary j. blige.

apparently she is super cool in person.

folk said:
apparently she is super cool in person.

– Well, she is a Jersey girl.

ETA : sorry, couldn’t resist

Off Topic

22 people were killed on Va Tech Campus this morning. Gunman is dead.

I feel numb right now. Can’t take it in that someone would do something this horrible.

22 people were killed on Va Tech Campus this morning. Gunman is dead

This is very sad. http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070416/ap_on_re_us/virginia_tech_shooting_55

They’re still investigating, it’s sadly, up to 32 dead now.

Theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re still investigating, ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s sadly, up to 32 dead now.

Crap, that’s horrible.

I may be confusing my blogs, but I recall someone who posts here saying that worked at Va Tech. And doesn’t Taylor’s younger brother go to school there?

I may be confusing my blogs, but I recall someone who posts here saying that worked at Va Tech. And doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t Taylorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s younger brother go to school there?

No, he goes to Georgia Tech. I believe its LisaATL and I believe she actually works at Georgia TEch as well.

Theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re still investigating, ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s sadly, up to 32 dead now.

It’s so hard trying to wrap your mind around what could cause someone to want to do something like that.

MaryS, your job is sending you home early.. Man, they could have done one better and not let you come in at all. They fail to see, it was not the job, it’s the commute…LOL Oh well, at least you will start your treck back home early..

I may be confusing my blogs, but I recall someone who posts here saying that worked at Va Tech. And doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t Taylorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s younger brother go to school there?

___________________
Lisa ATL works at Georgia Tech, I believe.. Sean, Taylor’s brother, is a student at Georgia Tech..

OK are they saying 32 dead and 29 injured?

Ah, all I remembered was the “Tech” bit. Thanks for the clarification, JJ.

This is absolutely insane. I need to watch the news…

BTW, how long do we now have to edit our comments?

ETA: Thanks again, JJ. You’re so helpful this morning.

BTW, how long do we now have to edit our comments?

I believe its 15 minutes.

emeralgem Apr 16th, 2007 at 2:03 pm

Lisa ATL works at Georgia Tech, I believe.. Sean, Taylorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s brother, is a student at Georgia Tech..

OK are they saying 32 dead and 29 injured?

I do work at Ga Tech where Sean goes to school. CNN is still quoting 21 dead and they are usually on ball with developing stories like this. Can you imagine how the families of students feel?

My recap from Birchmere: Loved the concert — attending Rams Head Live on Tuesday. This is an abbreviated report:

ALL THIS TIME à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  IT WAS RAINING CATS AND DOGS! Umbrellas, rivers of rain coursing down the parking lot, windows fogging over as we talked; and black garbage bags/shower curtains on park benches so we could sit down. The last group opened the hatchback to their car and we hung out there for a while. We looked like Taylorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s dream of the Soul Parking Lot Patrol (hahaha). All we needed were barbeque pits and margaritas!

Finally, Loisà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ concerns were assuaged à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  at 4:00 p.m., there were about 40 people in line and Rob was à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“herding catsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  to make sure no one broke the line and got in front of us. We were determined to hold our position of 1, 2, and 3. Although it was obvious that a line was established, each new arriving group tried to bunch up in front of the entrance à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  so Rob was quite busy jumping in and out of his car to lay down the line order.

Suddenly, TAYLORà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢S BUS ARRIVED!!! By that time there were approx. 35 – 40 people in line. I jumped out of the car; dropped my glasses and tried to unobtrusively mosey down to the bus to get a picture of Taylor. Got pictures of the bus; watched the bus back up into the enclosure which was then fenced back off. Immediately thereafter, a handsome tall young man with straight brownish/black hair walked up with a woman and walked behind the enclosure and went into the back door to the venue. I started to tell him he couldnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t do that à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  but kept my mouth closed. Good thing!! It WAS BRIAN G. I did say hi and he smiled and replied.

Returned to the car for another 3 hour wait but since the rain had slowed, PennyW, Lois and I joined her husband at the front door to the Bà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢mere. I had to go to the potty again! Damn! As I was peeking into the door, an employee showed up to open the door à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  I quietly said to him à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Do you think I can go in with you à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  I have to go to the bathroom!à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  He looked at me and as he unlocked the door said à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ll let you let you in but Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ll probably get in trouble for thisà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ !!!!!!!!! I said à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m staying in here.

Believe it or not no one noticed me dissappear. I went in; walked around then couldnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t figure out how to get back out to the parking lot. I asked the people at the box office how to get out à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  you should have seen their faces à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  which were nothing to the looks of surprise I got when I popped out of the front entrance door and rejoined my group. hahaha!!

Anyway, about 4:15, the owner showed up and said he was going to see if he could let us in early. We were in let in with instructions on where to gather; how to behave; and wait for the M&G and have drinks.

The M&G à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  the adventure continues:

PennyW and I both had tickets for the M&G à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  we were #1 and 2; we were led to a small room; table w/2 chair side by side.

o Taylor in his black pull over; seated at the table;
o Penny had some gifts for Taylor; I had 4 things for him to sign
o One of his assistants told us the proceedure à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  have your items to be signed out and ready to go; stay in line; sit if you want.
o He greeted me with à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“How ya doing dearà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ; I blithered something inane about how happy I was to hear real good music à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  HIS à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  music again. I think he said à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s nice dearà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ! I got to sit beside him to have my picture taken by his assistant (with my own camera).
o He really has a healthy look to him and hair was casual à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  so was mine!! hah

I was giddy after the meeting à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t speak for Penny. So I went seeking a drink!!!
The line moved quickly à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  probably no more than 10 minutes to get everyone through.

Very shortly thereafter, the audience was admitted to the performance area. Pennyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s brother moved quickly and got us a table RIGHT IN FRONT OF THE MICROPHONES; so I was no more than 3à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ² from Taylor à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  right under his nose.

The crew was checking mics, lights, instruments, and sound equipment. I saw the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“set listà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  and walked up to write down the song names. We decided this was a à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“bogus/decoyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  list since he only sang a few songs from it. I did, however, corner Ted Alltheanswers and he promised to give me one after the concert. I also got a photo (I think with him) à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t remember à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  will have to check my camera and Pennyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s. I do remember he gave a hug and an assuring comment about how happy he was to have me there.

Toby Lightman was very good. Sheà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s tiny à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  probably 5à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ² and petite; good husky voice; reminded me of Carol King. Think she was on about 45 minutes to an hour and that might be why we didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t get an encore.

As soon as she finished – the crew came out and broke down the stage à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  took no more than 10 minutes; James Brown was playing; and quickly went on to the MUSIC HERALDING THE ARRIVAL OF TAYLOR. The musicians quickly took the stage; Melanie is very a beautiful lady; good personality; good figure; good voice. Ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s obvious Taylor enjoys singing his own creations à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  he modestly announces them à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  My friend, Hell of a Day, The Deal à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  no brag; just fact. His voice was like warm whisky; NICE; his smile was warm and sunny; he shoots those dark glances out at you; you melt; he is slim and tall; Bet my blood pressure was off the charts!! How exciting.

Brian Less announced Taylor and the concert was off.

A few last comments:

o Remember the man I saw entering the bus enclosure à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  it was BRIAN GALLAHER; he was right in front of me!! Boy was I glad I hadnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t challenged his entrance into the closed off area hahaha!
o Boogie is in constant motion à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  he and Taylor seem to have a synergistic effect on one another à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  Taylor starts bouncing up and down and Boogie bounces up and down; Boogie starts bouncing up and down and Taylor bounces up and down à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  its something to see. When Boogie plays, he makes the funniest faces and goes into his own zone. o Same with Josh à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  he just focuses on that guitar and plays the hell out of it!! Josh is all serious business when he plays the guitar.
o Boogie doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t use a pick when he plays the bass just uses his fingers.
o Taylor doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t use a guitar pick either à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  guess that helps you get a better sound from the strings??
o Taylor was in constant motion à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  moving around the stage; limited movements à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  not too much wild dancing à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  stage was kinda small. Taylor did a great job directing the band à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  something to behold. They do react to the smallest motion Taylor makes. Quick studies. Taylor also gave us an opportunity to let the band know we loved them à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“How à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢bout this bandà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ?!!! he said.
o Taylor called out all the musicians by name and gave them good solo sprints.
o Compared To What was proceeded by a good cowbell intro à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  not so apparent when you listen to the cellcert but Taylor likes to beat that cowbell!
o Not too much harp but what there was was out there.
o The Right Place is beautiful.
o A good amount of chatting à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  but the concert moved along à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  Taylor did à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“throw a curve ballà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  (his words) at the band by changing up a piece or two!!
o I tried to take photos but because of my seat, most of the time, the camera image showed the curtain couldnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t quite get Taylor in the center of the screen. I have a few maybe theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ll work.

Now for the end. At the conclusion of the Round around, we were screaming for an encore but à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Hit the Road Jackà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  started to play. As I mentioned yesterday, Alexandria has strict noise regs and that may explain the concert ending at 10:00 p.m. The Bà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢mere staff was in there immediately to clean up and move us out.

I was able to get Brian L à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  asked him why no encore à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  he didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t know either; Josh (got him to smile also), and Brian G. to talk to the Boogie. No à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“shrinking violetà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  am I à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  just walked up and asked à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“can you talk to the Boogie Board? Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m here for the cellcertà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ . What could they do à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  I pushed the cellphone at them and they said something!! haha

Met Liloleme à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  AmyM was there but didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t see her.

Conclusion: I had a ball! Saw people waiting for autographs at the bus/fence line; some of Alexandriaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s finest were there also but I didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t wait around, I did see Taylor in his gray beanie and a dark pullover à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  then I struck out drove out of the parking lot for home!!

I really enjoyed myself and will go to my second concert on Tuesday at the RamsHeadLive in Baltimore.

Hope you enjoyed this narrative. Thought another view was necessary — the concert was excellent, the crowd was receptive and enjoyed themselves; the music was excellent, Taylor’s voice was outstanding and crystal clear, the band was stellar; Taylor very handsome and healthy, the M&G very smooth handled and exciting. All in all — the concert made my day!!! The food — not so good, the weather was lousy. The venue didn’t allow for standing or dancing — tables placed too close together. An encore was expected but alas it wasn’t to be! Boo!!

The concert was over all too soon — but living in VA, I know about the noise restriction laws.

Cheers Juliegr

MaryS, your job is sending you home early.. Man, they could have done one better and not let you come in at all. They fail to see, it was not the job, ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s the commuteà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦LOL Oh well, at least you will start your treck back home early..

Yeah, we were just saying that. It took one of my co-workers 3 hours to get here today. Another who lives a couple miles down the road got detoured all the way in a circle back to her home. I would’ve taken that as a sign. She eventually found a way here.

Still I managed to knock out some NDAs and did some other work and now can slog back home.

And all that being said, this is just a really small nothing compared to what happened at VA Tech today. What an horrible tragedy.

LOL, Julie…if this is the abbreviated recap…

You know, watching the news and hearing more about this tragedy really makes things like AI seem very insignificant. It puts matters into perspective. My thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of all those involved…

db* Apr 16th, 2007 at 2:15 pm

You know, watching the news and hearing more about this tragedy really makes things like AI seem very insignificant. It puts matters into perspective.

That is so true. However, we still need to have JJ and Metta threatening a** kickings to give us something to laugh about.

However, we still need to have JJ and Metta threatening a** kickings to give us something to laugh about.

JJ/Metta (and possible Toby/Taylor) a** kickings are of course very important. Laughter, as they say, is the best medicine…

db* Apr 16th, 2007 at 2:25 pm

JJ/Metta (and possible Toby/Taylor) a** kickings are of course very important. Laughter, as they say, is the best medicineà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦

And they do provide us with a lot of “medicine” :wub_tb:

And they do provide us with a lot of à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“medicineà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  :wub_tb:

Irregardless of any medical expenses incurred by the parties involved, it certainly does provide us with a great deal of “medicine.”

Dang, CNN and the AP are officially reporting that 31 are dead… *sigh*

LisaATL
Apr 16th, 2007 at 2:21 pm
db* Apr 16th, 2007 at 2:15 pm

You know, watching the news and hearing more about this tragedy really makes things like AI seem very insignificant. It puts matters into perspective.
————-

I could NOT agree more, but am realizing I not only welcome, but need a diversion from the harsh reality of what life sometimes brings to our doorstep.

Just heard – the number of deaths is now 31. It makes me sick to my stomach.

I could NOT agree more, but am realizing I not only welcome, but need a diversion from the harsh reality of what life sometimes brings to our doorstep.

standing ovation, WORD

vegasdee Apr 16th, 2007 at 2:34 pm

I could NOT agree more, but am realizing I not only welcome, but need a diversion from the harsh reality of what life sometimes brings to our doorstep.

And what better place than MJs where snarking is king :king_tb:

That makes this one of the biggest mass gun killings. This is so awful and devastating. What possesses people to unleash this into society I will never understand. =(

Paula Apr 16th, 2007 at 12:59 pm

I hope Taylorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s getting some action- ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s good for the immune system (not really, but I just want him to get laid already).

No, it really is good for your health to ger laid on a regular basis – which explains the poor state of my health now. :wallbash_tb:

LB2 Apr 16th, 2007 at 2:37 pm

That makes this one of the biggest mass gun killings. This is so awful and devastating. What possesses people to unleash this into society I will never understand. =(

Maybe it is agood thing that we can’t understand it. I would not want to have that evil a mind/heart that I would do something like this.

In honor of today’s tragic loss, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQr4UAeMrxg or this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78Hoaisl2Xs&NR=1

jpfan Apr 16th, 2007 at 1:02 pm

There was an interview last week that said Taylor was more into chess than groupies. But let your imaginations run wildà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦

Okay. Is there such a thing as strip chess? After all, we have strip poker. :devil_tb:

In honor of todayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s tragic loss, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQr4UAeMrxg

Thanks for that, vegas. That was nice.

For the sake of levity: Fred Durst. Ha!

db* Apr 16th, 2007 at 2:53 pm

For the sake of levity: Fred Durst. Ha!

who is Fred Durst?

For the sake of levity: Fred Durst. Ha!

I know, right?

who is Fred Durst?

Fred Durst is the lead singer of Limp Bizkit.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_Durst

They were quite popular back in the late 90s, early 2000s. I remember quite a few people in high school singing their songs (lyrics: “It’s all about the he said she said bull***!!”) as they were walking down the halls. Anyways, he was the last guy in the baseball cap singing on the video Vegas posted.

ETA: Right, I need to peel myself away from the TV, or else I’ll be sitting here all day, getting more depressed by the moment…

Well, that explains it. I’ve never heard any songs of Limp Biskit. With a name like that, don’t think I want to.

For PJ, star and anyone else interested:
Ace Young doing weather – I found the link on another board.

http://www.myfoxatlanta.com/myfox/pages/InsideFox/Detail?contentId=2889674&version=1&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=VSTY&pageId=5.2.1

LisaATL
Apr 16th, 2007 at 2:21 pm

I could NOT agree more, but am realizing I not only welcome, but need a diversion from the harsh reality of what life sometimes brings to our doorstep.

Exactly. One of the reasons why I do this. For fun, and a diversion. Compared to other things going on in the world right now, it’s really insignificant…

For PJ, star and anyone else interested:
Ace Young doing weather

That was adorable.

ETA:

Exactly. One of the reasons why I do this. For fun, and a diversion. Compared to other things going on in the world right now, ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s really insignificantà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦

…and thank you very much for providing it. It’s definitely appreciated.

mj Apr 16th, 2007 at 3:10 pm

Compared to other things going on in the world right now, ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s really insignificantà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦

No it is not insignificant. We need to have those people and places in our life where we feel safe and secure. It helps us deal with the insanity that sometimes shows up in our world.

Although it is hard to feel safe when JJ and Metta talk about a** kicking :help_tb:

Go to http://www.tobylightman.com and listen to Toby Lightman’s music. She is really good.

For PJ, star and anyone else interested:
Ace Young doing weather – I found the link on another board.

http://www.myfoxatlanta.com/myfox/pages/InsideFox/Detail?contentId=2889674&version=1&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=VSTY&pageId=5.2.1

Jersey, thanks!!! That was very cute.

Thought another view was necessary à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  the concert was excellent, the crowd was receptive and enjoyed themselves

Hee. Yes by all means, do not listen to the bad Taylor fan I didn’t have a meet & greet or great seats to color the whole experience. Taylor was awesome at times – Compared to What, Hell of a Day and Medicated Goo were crazy good. How could I possibly enjoy the cowbell that much? (maybe four cosmos help?)

BUT some of the album songs really, really needed the help of the tags and Taylor’s improvisational skills to sell them. I can’t go to the Baltimore show I have tickets for tomorrow, and I probably won’t see him again until the next CD is out, so my hopes were too high, I guess.

Toby was really, really great. I think my hubby is kicking himself for not going to meet her in the merchandise store between sets.

Anyone know who is opening for Taylor next? I’m seeing him Sunday in Royal Oak, MI. I saw him w/ Michael Warren in Chicago – I was hoping to see Toby Lightman as I really like what I hear on her web site & myspace, but it looks like he’s added her for a few dates this week. But I’ve no idea who he has for Sunday. Hey – maybe he won’t have anyone and we’ll get a longer show!

I dont want to bring you all down but I am so sad today. I went to Va Tech myself and lived in the dorm where the first shooting took place. I went to classes in the academic building where all of those innocent people were shot and/or killed. It seems like a horrible bad dream. How could this happen in a sleepy little small town like Blacksburg Va? I have chill bumps and quite honestly am not holding it together very well right now. I just wait now to see if I know any of the injured or dead. Sorry again to be a downer but if you ar a religious person, please say a little prayer…

BTW, PJ, tomorrow’s the deadline for the Chicago ice cream party, right?

I’m sending you all my very best Juju that you get the call (though through tears: Virginia Tech is my alma mater. Very horrific day, it goes without saying).

sigh about the va tech shootings.

my bro went to schol right near blacksburg. i am very very familiar with virginia.

it is such a gun friendly state, it is so easy down there. and the blacksburg area is one of the most predominant gun friendly areas in the whole state.

va tech is a lovely school. it is so sad.

lu it is very sad. i am annoyed at cnn with there questioning of where police and security was on a quicker basis…they clearly have no understanding of blacksburg, the community or area….it is mainly sheriffs….

OK, I just got back from my dentist, where it made me laugh that while I was getting a teeth cleaning, he ran in to discuss AI with me and the hygienist, neither of who watch on a regular basis anymore, but follow on the net. He is afraid that Sanjaya will win and crash AI, which, because my dentist is so intense, provides him with great relaxation.
Then I get home and come to the blog and find out the horrific news of the shooting, and the numbers dead and injured, and it brings one back to reality, and that so called reality show is not it. My thoughts, prayers and tears go out to all those people in Va.

Thanks, Schmanda. (((HUGS)))

And ((HUGS))) to you too, Lu. It is incredibly sad.

Lu, I am so sorry. All of the dead, injured, families and friends are in my prayers.

Parents, hug your children daily and let them know you love them!

Sorry, I meant Lu, not JJ.

Lu, if you’re still here, apparently there’s a prayer vigil at Commonwealth Chapel in the Fan at 5 p.m. Don’t know if you can make it, but I could stand to be around my Hokie family right about now.

maybe now va will enact some gun laws. they are one of the worst states in the country for gun control. truly terrible state.

word i am hearing….from va tech peeps….an engineering student….

I must admit I cannot understand the gun laws in the US.

omg….so this is inside scoop…not on cnn…i am hearing the engineer shot people in the dorm…then went to class….sat in the back and then stood up and shot everyone.

well lisab, in va, for example, you do not need a permit to carry a concealed weapon. which is stupid, irresponsible and crazy.

Lisa B: I remember hearing about a D.C. court which recently said that the 2nd Amendment applies to individual gun owners as opposed to just militias. Maybe the Supreme Court will take it…far as I know it’s the one amendment that hasn’t been “incorporated” as applicable to the states, and the Supreme Court has never really touched on it. Maybe folk can confirm or deny this.

Being a young single woman living alone, I have often considered owning a handgun, but yes, some of the gun laws in the US are ridiculous. Florida recently passed a new law extending use of force for self-defense to far more situations than the classic situations (ex. an intruder in your house). It’s nuts.

lethal force for an intruder in the house has been held in common law to not be legal. however, tell that to a jury.

this ussc will not do anything with the second amendment. not going to touch it.

you know…my major issue is…if you are a responsible gun owner, you do not mind safeguards and checks.

in a world of child desentization to violence thru video games and tv….you make guns accessible and you will have a problem.

vegas, thanks so much for the video – what’s going on?
Another sad day.

juliegr – glad you had a great time!

I lived in Charlottesville for 2 years and Richmond for 2 years and have visited the Va. Tech campus as well as VMI (Virginia Military Institute), Washington and Lee and Hollins.

I think it’s unfair and a political shot to classify Virginia as an anomaly, “such a gun friendly state” when it’s not out of the norm – particularly during this sad time.

God bless them and their families.

folk………is it true that there have been bomb scares at VaTech also this year? Maybe it is the same person who committed these horrible acts today. CNN is talking now about how so many of this kind of thing happens mostly at schools and mostly in this country. (this of course is not counting the suicide bombers in other countries who have political motives rather than personal)

Hee. Yes by all means, do not listen to the bad Taylor fan I didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t have a meet & greet or great seats to color the whole experience.

Cheese, you and I have to suit up in our “Team Evil” T-shirts. LOL. .

in a world of child desentization to violence thru video games and tvà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.you make guns accessible and you will have a problem.

folk, bingo! I am hoping that the Imus debacle will open some eyes as far as video games, tv, music and movies. Something has got to be done.

Schmanda and Lu…thinking about you guys.

Please don’t let this conversation devolve into a gun control debate. The situation is depressing enough as it is, ok? If you want to argue, take it to chat.

mad…there were bomb scares apparently.

and i made my statement abotu virginia with knowledge. as a former resident of virginia, and several other states, and a person who has researched this…

Virginia IS one of the most gun friendly states in the country. Additionally, it is very tolerant of guns. I am sorry, it is hard to have anyone who has lived in the state not be able to honestly say that. And, being quite familiar with the New River Valley area…it is a HIGH gun ownership area.

Those are facts. Period.

lethal force for an intruder in the house has been held in common law to not be legal.

I do remember reading that…in FL at least it’s statutorily okay. If someone came into my apartment and attacked me I would do everything in my power to defend myself…but that’s about as far as it goes. Carrying weapons on your person or in your vehicle just to have them…ridiculous.

you knowà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦my major issue isà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦if you are a responsible gun owner, you do not mind safeguards and checks.

Exactly. My father was a former police officer so we always had a gun in the house. As a young child I was taught to fear and respect the gun, which was kept in a locked safe and the key hidden (to this day I have no idea where my parents kept it). And I do not own a gun, simply because I don’t have the time to devote to proper training courses.

mj, saw your post after my last one–sorry. I’m done

exactly kat. i grew up in a very rural hunting community. no one there had semi automatics to get the deer. and they got their permits….

states that block background checks and provide loopholes for easy buying…they are evil short sited states.

mj, saw your post after my last one–sorry. I’m done

I don’t mind the discussion…just no arguing please. . Thanks.

mj
Apr 16th, 2007 at 4:26 pm
Hee. Yes by all means, do not listen to the bad Taylor fan I didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t have a meet & greet or great seats to color the whole experience.

Cheese, you and I have to suit up in our à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Team Evilà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  T-shirts. LOL. .

Yeppers — that’s the reason! Be good and you score! hah Might score again since I’ll be at another concert on Tuesday! Having those two extras DID make the whole experience more enjoyable, I must say.

MJ……….thank you for letting a discussion continue as it can be cathartic if no arguing ensues.

maybe now va will enact some gun laws. they are one of the worst states in the country for gun control. truly terrible state.

The guns are not the problem. I’m sorry..

sexy, of course the guns do not possess the intent.

but, when you provide people with intent, with ready access…then you run into a problem.

i mean think about it. va has a no permit to conceal law. which means joe shoe can be at yoru local coffee shop packing a gun. he gets pissed….he goes off his rocker…he shoots people.

guess what…the law allowed him to have the gun with him while he had coffee to begin with.

what a society will tolerate, what a society sets as boundaries…that is what i will get in return behavior.

and….by way of argument…it is a fact that states with looser gun control laws, loose background checks etc…have more gun related crime. it is a set stat. hard to argue with the correlation.

I am a firm believer in gun ownership; but having no permit laws is rediculous.

of course, anyone with rebuttal evidence that is not anecdotal can challenge my point….

but, when you provide people with intent, with ready accessà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦then you run into a problem.

I’m sorry but it’s a bit unrealist to think that one can get rid of a problem caused bya few by implementing laws that seems to hurt the innocent more than the one commiting the act…

Case in point, having to show Id just to purchase kid’s cough medicince because some choose to turn the substance into drugs to feed their habits. Who is the law really helping or hurting?

yes sexy. good analogy. children” medicine has not been shown to be a mass weapon.

showing id is hardly an inconvience.

sexy, I agree that guns don’t kill people, people kill people; but I want a society where the people are allowed to purchase and carry handguns and with that privilege, comes responsiblity. With that responsibility, should come protection. That protection should come in the way of permits and licensening.

and, innocent people are never hurt by checks and safety. innocent people should appreciate rights that have safeguards. innocent people do not worry about background checks.

RE: Taylor Commerical for 101.3 FM in San Francisco

Anyone knows what this is all about ?

18 USC Section 922

that law prohibits sale of guns to people under age of 21.

clearly, someone violated the law.

guess whatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦the law allowed him to have the gun with him while he had coffee to begin with.

Sadly, it was the gunman who was carrying a gun and not one of those kids had one to use to help put the gunman out of his misery as he’s going around taking the lives of their fellow students..See, the law may allow to carry a gun but that does not mean you are willing to use it..

I am a firm believer in gun ownership; but having no permit laws is rediculous.

I AGREE, Nola. Don’t deprive me, a law abiding citizen, from protecting myself just because someone cannot handle their own personal issues.. Sorry, but I don’t have a “let’s throw out the baby with the bath water” mentality..

showing id is hardly an inconvience.

You’ve obviously never been twelfth in line at the phamacy during allergy season. :lol_tb:

yes sexy. good analogy. childrenà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  medicine has not been shown to be a mass weapon.

showing id is hardly an inconvience.

I see my point went right over your head. So I will leave it at that..

sexygirl and folk………….you both make excellent points and sexy, this is a new phenomenon about cough medicine and meth. (well, the past 20 years anyway) As we all know, most of the masses of people suffer because of the actions of a few, and it has always been like that. Just like when someone figured out the formula for making meth out of simple over the counter cough meds, when semi-automatic weapons were taken out of the military and introduced to the public….it became another whole ballgame. Or when this country recruited a German scientist to help develop the H-bomb which could annihalate miles instead of a building, to change the playing field of nations. It all comes down to availability and intent.

Just look what Sanjaya is doing to the monster hit American Idol. :smile1_ee:

yes sexy. it must be terrible to protect society by making gun owners go thru background checks.

that is what we in the legal community call a legitimate government interest.

but your life must be hard…having to whip out the drivers liscense to get a prescription. wow, the 30 secs of your life you wasted!! the horror!

sexy, I don’t want to deprive you or anyone from protecting yourself. I think you should reread my post to you.

I am a legal gun owner. I know how to shoot. I am a damn good aim. I would shoot to kill if I had to. The problem is that VA does not have permit laws. These laws will never end this problem; but it will lessen the problem.

sexy, I agree that guns donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t kill people, people kill people; but I want a society where the people are allowed to purchase and carry handguns and with that privilege, comes responsiblity. With that responsibility, should come protection. That protection should come in the way of permits and licensening.

What can I say, I agree with what you’re saying.

NOLA….to your point…do you know how many lax anti-control states allow men with restrainging orders to buy guns (generally, not a good idea)…is a surprise that in those same states, more women are likely to die of gun violence in a domestic relationship?

My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by today’s tragedy.
Lu-Have you heard anymore?

On a lighter note…

Cheese and MJ-don’t forget proper uniform consists of devil horns as well as the t-shirt

folk, I live in Lousiana. Due to Katrina, the city of NOLA is a little over 100,000 people now, down from 450,000 before Katrina. We now have an average of 5 people shot and killed each weekend. I can assure you, these thugs are not getting permits for these weapons.

of course not nola, but that goes to the gun trade. and quite frankly, with my knowledge of this area, states with lesser gun control laws have bigger and more accessible black markets…law enforcement has less of an ability to control guns at the point of sale…which means they disperse to some unseemly characters…including street dealers.

Here are the gun laws for Louisiana. Pretty much the same as Virginia.

http://www.bradycampaign.org/legislation/state/viewstate.php?st=la

those are terrible gun control laws nola. terrible. no limit on sales, no limit on automatic sales, no gun fingerprinting, no state background check…

i mean that is just horrible lawmaking.

Nola, it must be my punctuations but I agree with everything you’ve said so far..LOL

Just look what Sanjaya is doing to the monster hit American Idol.

Mad, you do have a way of putting thing into prespective..

i mean that is just horrible lawmaking.

That’s what happens when lobbyists are allowed to run the legislatures.

I personally have no problem with responsible gun ownership–handguns, rifles for hunters (though I’m not big on hunting as a sport…I think it’s disgusting, but YMMV), etc. But seriously, semiautomatic rifles? Uzis? There are no good reasons weapons like that need to be on the street and in the hands of the public.

kat, everyone knows you need an assault rifle to get the deer!!! come on!

Is the cough medicine/ID thing just in the US? I don’t think I’ve ever had to do that up here in the Canada.

I just checked the gun laws in my state of California and was surprised to learn that we get an A- as far as gun laws and protection. Not only that, Los Angeles, where I live, has only 9,000 police officers for a very large area, compared to 22,000 for New York City. Over half of our homicides are gang related, which cuts the actual homicide rate pretty low for a city of 3 million and county of 10 million. We like to joke that the traffic is so bad and people are in their cars so much that they are too tired and confined to even think about it and only the gang members, who don’t work, have time to committ dirty deeds. I do know that guns are to be had anywhere if one really wants one.

folk, I couldn’t agree more. And, may I remind everyone, that our state was sent 2 billion dollars by the Federal Govt to help our citizens after Katrina and the money is still sitting in the hands of the Local and State Government, with the exception of a small few. I guess that is why our Governor has decided she will not be running for reelection.

This is the reason my hubby and I moved from the NOLA area a few years ago. The crime rate in the NOLA metro area is horrendous and arrests are made and before the papers can be processed, the judges have let the thugs out of jail.

mad…ca has good gun laws. now, go look at nevada. a neighbor of yours. there you will find your major gun source.

nola…do you have elected judges in LA?

i hate the concept of elected judges.

Metta………….you have so much wide open space up there that you may not know about the meth. Here in Ca the labs are way out in the desert mostly because they produce a very horrible telltale smell. However, in the midwestern state where I grew up, a friend said that they recently had a bust in their nice suburb which is located near a cooking oil factory. I guess the meth “cookers” figured that the smell would cover the smell of meth. Someone knew the difference and called police. My friend was shocked.
Just remember too that when Coca Cola was introduced over a hundred years ago, it contained cocaine, and probably still does considering how addictive it is. LOL

i believe iowa is the leader in meth production.

folk………….Nevada, and also Az. My daughter moved to Az and just met a guy that she likes very much but he carries a rifle in his truck and says they all are taught to use a gun at an early age. (it’s all those dangerous Sahuaro cacti I guess She is not used to being around guns and it might affect their relationship.
Maybe some country on AI tomorrow night is just what we need right now. Ya think?

maybe mad.

see i would not want to be with a guy with an accessible rifle. but that is me and what i have seen in my career…makes me pessimistic.

I am a legal gun owner. I know how to shoot. I am a damn good aim. I would shoot to kill if I had to. The problem is that VA does not have permit laws. These laws will never end this problem; but it will lessen the problem.

The problem is why anyone needs a gun, if you are willing to kill because someone may come after you with a gun, the gun laws are a problem.

Viscious circle.

I just heard about this….We sit around watching movies all day and I hadn’t even looked at the news since 5:30am.

My husband says…if everyone had a gun, the guy would have been taken down quickly. He’s apparently very pro gun….though we don’t own any.

I’m just grieving for the family

families even….huh, can’t edit

I just saw the president on Fox News….now, of course I have visions of more civil liberties being taken away…I feel Martial Law coming on…..ugh

Lisa B
Apr 16th, 2007 at 6:08 pm
I am a legal gun owner. I know how to shoot. I am a damn good aim. I would shoot to kill if I had to. The problem is that VA does not have permit laws. These laws will never end this problem; but it will lessen the problem.

Viscious circle.
THAT is the problem! WHAT gun laws? There are none.

The problem in this state is not the law-abiding citizens who have legal gun ownership, Lisa. It’s the animals who don’t.

I gotta scoot. It’s redbeans ‘n rice Monday. See yall in chat tonight.

looks like, from online students….all but two people in an advanced hydrology class were killed…one played dead.

btw. very few civil liberties are infringed on a daily basis. if you actually stop and think about it…you will realize your daily life is rarely impeded. a person tends to face barriers only when they are about to do something bad.

oh and the strong rumor is the shooter caught his gf in bed with another man in the dorm….i still would put that in rumor category.

Wow, what a scary day. I was riding the train home from work when one woman asked me if I had heard what happened. I had no idea. Then she told me and all I could think about was that my sister’s boyfriend had just transfered to Virginia Tech for the spring semester. I called her immediately. She was freaking out. Went over to her place. She was frantically trying to get hold of him. Finally he called. He says it’s absolutely insane over there. That he was off campus when it happened. That it feels like a dream. I’m curious as to what kind of person would do something like this. I’m upset that he was able to go through with it, able to make the plans, able to walk through the building with the plan to kill all these people. I can only imagine how tough it will be for these kids to go back to school. Especially the first year students like my sisters boyfriend. The ones who are living on their own for the first time in their lives thinking that they’re in a safe place. I’m assuming classes will be cancelled for a good length of time. I just want to know the motive.

i am reading an asian electrical computer engineering student.

I do know that guns are to be had anywhere if one really wants one.

Yep, supply and demand..Marketing 101..

I personally feel that no law changing will stop a person who has snapped or criminal from doing that they have to do and gaining the resources to do it with. I don’t know what triggered off this person and cause him to do what he did. Nor do I even know if he was licensed to own the gun or guns he used. All I know is that innocent lives are lost. Unfortunately, there has yet to be a law implemented to prevent that small problem.

I guess that is why our Governor has decided she will not be running for reelection.

I’m sorry Nola, but N.O. politicians are a HOT mess. I’m still surprised that the city actually voted back into office a mayor who seems more concerned about Mardi Gras taking place than the welfare of those who voted for him..His priorities always seemed to have been in order from the first time I saw him on TV before Katrina hit almost two years ago.

btw. very few civil liberties are infringed on a daily basis. if you actually stop and think about ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦you will realize your daily life is rarely impeded. a person tends to face barriers only when they are about to do something bad

eh…..not really, my grandfather was in a V.A. hospice a couple years ago, and we got searched just to go see him.

Just to park and run into the STL airport your car is searched.

My nieces and nephews are required to pass through metal detectors and are subject to search every day as they enter their schools.

Wal-mart asks to see your reciept and checks over your purchases before you leave their store. (I don’t know if this counts, but it annoys me to no end).

Police officers stare into your car with binoculars in our state to see if you are wearing a seat belt.

A friend of mine’s house was searched without warning or anything when a police officer came to give her a summons for a debt collection court appearance.

I could go on……

Canada has a gun registry system that is run by idiots. But the people who are commiting the crimes don’t get their guns registered, and buy them off the black market/illegally. The only way to stop people killing others by the use of guns is to stop making guns. Period. I don’t believe in guns and i never have, a tech-9 is not used to kill deer.

searches are for the safety of the public at large. a person has to be truly selfish to be concerned with their individual search at an airport….when one search could find a perpretrator.

read the constitution. all liberties are subjected to a balance against the greater interest of society.

your search is only an imposition on your time. if you are innocent, it yields nothing and you are on your way.

Jumping onto the gun thing. I’m a firm believer in human rights, on the other hand, I’m also a firm believer in the notion that if Johnny does something wrong on the field trip, he ruins it for the whole class. Our country has had way too many issues concerning unnecessary death that could have been prevented with a proper background check. Look at the columbine shootings… all the person who bought the boys the guns had to do was verify that she was 18 years old. There should be background checks, and extensive ones as well. Even psychological evaluations. I know it’s a tough pill to swallow but like I said, Johnny ruined it for the whole class.

then again…we can take those metal detectors out of your kids schools….and when a jr member of a gang comes in with a gun and starts shooting, what is the first thing you will ask? where was the security.

4th amendment law is highly developed and well protected and balanced. your children have lesser privacy interests under the law. period.

your annoyance at inconvience to your life is just that — an inconvenience. unfortunately for you, the supreme court thinks your inconvenience is worth it.

Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m sorry Nola, but N.O. politicians are a HOT mess. Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m still surprised that the city actually voted back into office a mayor who seems more concerned about Mardi Gras taking place than the welfare of those who voted for him..His priorities always seemed to have been in order from the first time I saw him on TV before Katrina hit almost two years ago.

I couldn’t agree more. Off to eat. Love yall!

Wal-mart asks to see your reciept and checks over your purchases before you leave their store.

Sorry, doesn’t count.

A friend of mineà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s house was searched without warning or anything when a police officer came to give her a summons for a debt collection court appearance.

That sounds…interesting, to say the least. I’d bet there’s more to that story than “the police officer just decided to search for the hell of it,” unless he was truly just a jackass/rogue cop.

I understand your arguement Folk….but my point was about civil liberties, that there are every day moments when our liberties are violated. I understand that it is LEGAL for these things to happen, but it doesn’t mean I have to agree with them.

steve-o-meter, you forgot something as simple and entertaining as going to a rollerskating rink or club and having to stand on endless lines to go through metal detects when the ones with the weapons still manage to get their weapons in…

The only way to stop people killing others by the use of guns is to stop making guns. Period.

No truer words have been spoken. Sadly, the reality is, pandora’s box has been opened a longtime ago and it will never close.. No law will change that..

Apparently the shooter was an asian male in his 20s.
http://www.inkyokie.blogspot.com/

actually steveo a reading of the 4th amendment makes it quite clear….your civil liberties, or what you consider to be that, are not being impeded by a search at school or the airport or at walmart.

the amendment is quite clear on “unreasonable” and the corresponding legislative history is very clear…none of the things you listed are civil liberties infractions.

i agree with kat…the officer search of the house sounds either like half the story or an ass cop– in which case your friend should have filed a complaint. if, however, there was an arrest, there is always search incident to arrest.

Schmanda –
I’m really sorry I missed your earlier post. I had to go and pick up my girls after work so I couldn’t have made the vigil. I’m torn between wanting to be with my Tech friends and hugging my little girls as tight as I can. I still cant believe it and wish I could stop crying… The university president said they wont release names of the victims until tomorrow. The shooter had no id on him so they still are trying to id him. Thank you all for your kind words. I promise not to talk about it any more here. My days at Va Tech were some of the happiest of my life… I’m just so sad.

you see, you shopping at walmart is not a right. it is a privilege. that privilege is granted to you by the owners of walmart. they grant that right by opening the store for business. by entering the store, you agree to the rules of that store. of one is checking the receipt, well that is not a civil liberty infraction.

in fact, civil liberties can ONLY be violated by a state actor. and, well, the walmart door checker just does not qualify.

folk……………can you remember back to when and what happened that they started putting metal detectors in schools? Was it after Columbine? I really can’t remember myself. The first large scale shooting I remember is the one in Texas where the shooter was in the tower shooting at students. I think that was in the 60′s. Some people are now talking about copycats, and saying that once something like this happens, there is always someone who wants to replicate it.
How do those people in other countries deal with bombings and shootings on a daily basis?

mad….metal detectors in large urban schools began in the nineties i believe.

and, it is a sad fact in this country, that school shootings often come in a cycle. no one knows why….but it is a strong pattern.

as for other countries…this school shooting phenom is not as prevalent. there are many theories on this. one theory, that many like to argue against, is the prevalence of tv and video game violence in the US.

The only way to stop people killing others by the use of guns is to stop making guns. Period.

While this is very true, and will certainly put an end to many homicides, there are those who will find other methods by which to commit murder. It also likely wouldn’t affect domestic crimes, rapes, and other crimes where the perpetrator is clearly not afraid to get up close to the victim.

I agree that it would bring a marked end to mass violent crimes, but would it decrease crime overall? I’m not so sure. I’m not taking a stance either way; I’m just not sure.

well, Folk…..i believe that the 4th amendment might be CLEAR on what you can and can’t consider a civil liberty….but I also believe that the amendments can be changed.

ok steveo…you go try to change the 4th amendment. get back to us on the progress for that one. you only need 3/4s of the states.

i am sure there will be huge support for the right to shop unimpeded at walmart. it is a huge injustice in society today. that and BJs. activists are descending on DC now.

To change the subject for a minute, Bucky and Kellie were just on the CMT Red Carpet, separately. Kellie definitely is giving *** a run for her money with Moobs.

Thank you all for your kind words. I promise not to talk about it any more here. My days at Va Tech were some of the happiest of my lifeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦ Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m just so sad.

I’m all for you talking about it if it helps you to grasp the reality of the situation or just gives you an outlet to vent some of the fustrations or fears you must be feeling. No discussion one way or the other of law will bring back one of those innocent lives or remove the shock that you and their family are feeling right now.

well the law is going to get 30 of those students families major damages awards fromt he university. my guess is the university will be found negligent for not warning the student body between shootings.

Lu and Schmanda- thinking of you both today, how tragic for Virginia tech and the community, We could debate gun laws and homicide for days and never really make sense of this horrible tragedy or ever prevent it from happening again, I am afraid. I have faciliatated anger management groups to kids and adults with fragile impulse control, and have often held my breath when they were discharged.
There are never easy answers to complex human questions as to why people sometimes act the way they do

Kellie definitely is giving *** a run for her money with Moobs.

Well, I think Kat won that battle because hers are supposedly real…LOL

Folk – I mentioned that I didn’t think the Walmart thing counted…..but, what it DOES do, is get people acclimated to having themselves searched on a daily basis, for no reason, other than they say they CAN.

When you are stopped by a police officer, or even if you are broke down on the side of the road….they will ask to search you, if you refuse, they can arrest you.

My husband and I were broke down in a park one time, the car just died….2 police officers came and wanted to search our car….why? who knows. We refused, and were placed in hand cuffs and the car was searched. They found nothing, and there was NOTHING we could do about it. We talked about suing, and even went to a lawyer, but we couldn’t afford it, so we dropped it.

I believe my liberties were DEFINATELY violated, I was placed in handcuffs and COULD NOT MOVE. We had done nothing wrong except refuse to do what they wanted us to. We didn’t fight, we didn’t cuss, we just refused to be searched.

Anyway….I’m done…I have to go to the store.

well the law is going to get 30 of those students families major damages awards fromt he university. my guess is the university will be found negligent for not warning the student body between shootings.

Yep, I can see all the lawyers running down to VA now..Lawsuits abound..Now there is the reality check..Can’t bring back my child but I can get a lot of money out of it…

well stevo that is illegal. and you did have a case. only way you win is to press it.

and yes there was something you could do….you just did not do it. suing is not the only option. many peopel speak to the police dept or in a small town, go to the Atty Gen.

I know folk….but our children….in schools are TAUGHT to expect to be searched and to succumb to it…I’m sorry, but that’s the way I see it. I understand it is a safety issue, but it is also a MEME issue. It makes it OKAY, it makes it acceptable and normal….and it’s not acceptable OR normal in our society to be treated
like criminals for no reason whatsoever.

Nothing more American than guns and boobs. OK not funny, but true, no?

On the other subject, I am happy for Kellie and Bucky, but sorry that his marriage broke up.

actual your children should be taught that their lives are an open book at home. where parents do not let their kids hide their activities. no child should get to think they can hide from authority. THAT is where future criminals stem from in part– a child with no respect for authority.

and yes there was something you could doà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.you just did not do it. suing is not the only option. many peopel speak to the police dept or in a small town, go to the Atty Gen.

Funny you should mention this….one of our local stations just did an udercover investigation about going to the police department asking to file a complaint…..in 9 out of the 10 police stations they refused to give the person a complaint form and in 2 of the situations they were asked to leave and threatened to be arrested.

where the hell do you live…a fascist country?

go to your state’s atty general or a state senator.

the only way to affect change is to do the work.

where the hell do you liveà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦a fascist country?

Well now that you mention it…lol

ETA – I just remembered that I don’t live there any more. Carry on.

The thing about using a gun is its impersonable, you wouldn’t expect 33 people to be dead because of a knife attack.
Kat talked about her boobs again at MuchMusic (i was there during the show, and was actually positioned behind her shoulder so everytime the camera panned to her there i was as well!)

In the same report, they talked that now there is a group of people here in St. Louis who started a Citizen Police Oversight Committee…it’s still fairly new….but I think they actually got a meeting with the Mayor recently…The CPOC is supposed to be a place were we can actually get stuff done about police corruption. St. Louis is about 80% African American…and there are violations left and right allllll the time.

I even had a friend who was thrown on the ground, arrested and called the N word just because she walked up to a convience store and opened the door when some robbers were exiting.

It’s a crazy place…..

it is missouri. that is half the problem.

you live in a state where the state actors are peopled
by people who, unfortunately, have a propensity to race based action– more so than other states.

the law is not the only issue in your state.

Steve 0- interesting comments about the police and the complaint process. Am currently working with a citizens group who have filed numerous complaints about a less than stellar police dept near my home, ie following up on investigations, complaint, etc. I attended a local common council board meeting to discuss and adovcate for the group, and was told my remarks could not be to the general council and I needed to speak privately to the Police chief outside the meeting room. This was the same council who on this night decided not to have their meetings televised on a small local tv station
for the general community to be informed. very interesting…

Kellie definitely is giving *** a run for her money with Moobs.

Well, I think Kat won that battle because hers are supposedly realà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦LOL

I have my doubts about that. I think Kellie’s are bigger.

LOL Folk……don’t I know it!

Okay, I really do have to go to the store…

Sorry MJ if this was WAAAAAAAAAY too off topic!

GO AMERICAN IDOL and all that…heh

Kat talked about her boobs again at MuchMusic

Fishing for compliments about her boobs is definitely a step up from fishing for compliments about her feet and toes. I’m glad to see she’s making progress.

Rad, I watched part 1 of that MuchMusic interview. WTF kind of pills was she popping that day? She really came off as loopy. She’s not the brightest star in the sky, no doubt, but she really did come off as…just dumb and shallow.

daisy…check your community’s open meeting laws. in liberal states, the open meeting law is harsh….andmeetingsmust be on the record andopen. your local DA or State’s Atty would handle this.

Folk, even better, I have a local reporter from a tv station involved with this group, amazing what a little negative press will do to get one’s butt in gear :thumbup_tb:

I love kellie pickler, but the sanjaya hairdo she has tonight has to go. She seriously needs new stylist. Such a pretty girl, and how many bad makeup jobs and hairdos has she had while on Idol and after?

Yes, thanks MJ for your tolerance, and it didn’t get nasty. Back to AI and season 6, my dentist thinks that Phil will go next and then Sanjaya. I barely watch, but I think Lakisha will go before Sanjaya…..if he does go. He is the one keeping major interest. Not like last season when even after Chris got the boot, there was still alot of interest.

I believe the 2nd amendment guarantees that the right to bear arms shall not be infringed. I don’t personally think that means that every person has the unfettered right to own as many arms as they want for any purpose whatsoever with no regulation or control, and I don’t believe that’s what our founders had in mind either. But I wasn’t there at the time, so the intent will remain a subject of debate.

The reasons to own and sell guns for lawful purposes, in my opinion, including: personal protection, hunting, law enforcement, historians/collectors/reinactors, etc.

But then there are people legally entitled to own guns who choose to buy and sell guns to those who would use them to commit crimes. The motive is always money, which means some of these people abuse their constitutional right to make a buck at the expense of the common good. The conflicting laws of the various states make it too difficult to curtail this kind of opportunism.

My issue with guns is really more philosophical than legal. Guns symbolize something more than tools for a particular purpose to some people. I think some people arm themselves out of fear. They fear that if they can’t own guns they want, they won’t be able to defend themselves against a threat. They seem to feel powerless without them. I think it becomes a false security blanket and a crutch. When violence becomes the means to assuaging fear, how is that a good thing?

Theoretiucally, there’s a risk someone could burgle my house. In that case if it happened while I was home, I would have as good a chance of (a) calling the police, and (b) if I was being threatened- wielding a Louisville Slugger, as I would retrieving, loading and aiming a gun.

If I’m robbed at gunpoint, having a gun won’t help me and I’ll probably end up losing it to the robber anyway. I’m not much motivated by free-floating fear, I guess. I would consider buying and learning to use a gun if I thought it was really necessary for my well being and survival. I don’t.

What’s worse though, are these “Shoot First” laws that are being promoted in some states – the worst thing possible in my opinion. They say basically, “shoot first and ask questions later” even in public. It allows people to take the law into their own hands, acting as police, prosecutor, judge, jury and executioner. I don’t like that legislation is being proposed on the basis of fear.

Actually the interviewer brought it up, asking her about Tyra. I didn’t think she was that loopy, i loved the interview and especially the part about Nena and the airplane. I actually got to meet her after the concert thing, and she was really nice to all of us waiting and seemed surprised that the people there were for her. After she performed an older lady came up to me and asked who just performed and i told her katharine mcphee and she asked from american idol, and i said yes, and she said she was very good. then i ran after kat because she left the stage and there was a mob after her lol

Kellies look post Idol is awful i think, they make her look 35 and she’s younger than me! She’s such a pretty girl if she just went more natural, but i guess she is in country now and we all know how they love their big hair/big makeup/big boobs

here’s all my pictures/videos from seeing kat
http://idolforums.com/index.php?showtopic=493938
the videos are huge though because they were shot with a video camera and not a digital camera

ETA – I just remembered that I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t live there any more. Carry on.

Hey, don’t forget you have to grace this fascist country with your presence this week. Politicals and law changing will joyfully be replaced with some good ole fashion butt kicking..LOL

Kat talked about her boobs again at MuchMusic (i was there during the show, and was actually positioned behind her shoulder so everytime the camera panned to her there i was as well!)

So Rad, you are a STAR..

Mad, something tells me you might just be right about Lakisha or even Chris leaving before Sanjaya..

If the spoiler list is right, I think Lakisha could knock Concrete Angel out of the park. It is a beautiful,extremely sad song about child abuse. I think having a young daughter and obviously she adores her, this song could be one she puts a lot of emotion into.

Here is Martina McBride at the Grammy awards. Caution, have kleenex in hand.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9VHl9zbCjY

Simply stunning.

Taylor was more into chess than groupies

Be sure Taylor’s getting himself some boo-Tay on a regular basis. He is young, willing, and able. He just says that shit to throw off his fans and the media.

ETA nevermind

Folk, I have disagreed a lot of times with your post, especially on Taylor talk but I have to tell you on something as important as this I agree with everything you have said.
Margie

Gun control… state laws… human rights… whatever..
This act was committed by a very disturbed sick person who desperately needed psychiatric evaluation and hospitalization.. Something snapped somewhere for this to have happened..
My thoughts and prayers are with all who are involved or connected in any way to this horrific incident..

Bye guys, I’m off to go watch DWTS..They are performing my favorite dance tonight. The Samba..YES

rad, I’m never going to understand how someone could love that interview. Between her “EEEEEWWWWS!” and her “Noooooo my feet are ugly!” whining, she just comes off to me as eminently smackable and fake, fake, FAKE. She honestly comes off as one of the dumbest freakin’ people I’ve ever seen live on tape. Certainly nothing admirable about that. But she’s pretty, so I guess it doesn’t matter.

Rant over. I’m glad you had a good time, rad. And I hope you weren’t the moron who posted that “omg kats toes are sooooo cute shez so adorable i luv her!!!!111111″ comment on YouTube below the interview. Because you seem too cool for that.

emeraldgem………….I think you are totally right that the person who committed the killings today snapped, but obviously was a stick of dynamite waiting to blow. Until we know the whole story of the first murders, we probably won’t begin to understand it. Like the guy who shot those Amish girls, it was something in the shooters mind. Now, if he hadn’t had a gun????? No way of knowing. I watched the witness who played dead and gave an account of the whole thing. Tomorrow it will start to hit her. She acted so nonchalant during the interview. I feel for all of the people involved.

If Lakisha goes: More votes for Melinda and Sanjaya –> Melinda 1st, Blake 2nd, Sanjaya 3rd

If Chris goes: More votes for Blake –> Blake & Melinda 1st, Sanjaya/Jordin 3rd

If Jordin goes: More votes for Melinda and Lakisha –> Melinda 1st, Blake 2nd, Lakisha 3rd

Based on the fact Chris R/Blake fans have just stopped splitting their votes between the two and assuming Blake will overtake Chris in votes.

Hey, donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t forget you have to grace this fascist country with your presence this week. Politicals and law changing will joyfully be replaced with some good ole fashion butt kicking..LOL

I’m counting the days, Sexy.

Shar – Thanks for posting that link. Wow! LaKisha could slay ‘em with that. Did Martina McBride write that song?

I guess its because Kat is a lot like me, we both ramble a lot. After the interview, some people behind me that had no idea really who she was (i think they were there for a class trip or something? there was a lot of them there that day) liked her. Kat is pretty (Even more so in real life), and i’d never hold that against her. I didn’t post any comments on youtube about kat ever, maybe because i’ve seen her off camera and she acts pretty much the same way? she’s just a huge dork and isn’t afraid to show who she really is. Some here think she’s a bitch/full of herself/stupid but i find it refreshing that having someone say the same answers to every question or one worded answers. At the concert she had a few jokes and got the people laughing, the general feeling after she performed is a lot of people were impressed. There were a lot of people standing around me that were there just for Kat, and after she came out from the Hard Rock Cafe we got our autographs and 90% left when she left so there was about 5 left for poor Eva (Canadian Idol last year) I voted for Eva, but i was freezing by that point and i just wanted to go home.

Bucky looking hot on the red carpet at the CMT awards

http://thumbsnap.com/v/2O9vbNiC.jpg

Bucky looking hot on the red carpet at the CMT awards

Not bad, Bucky. Not bad at all.

Kat Apr 16th, 2007 at 8:15 pm

rad, Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m never going to understand how someone could love that interview.

It was a great inteview.

Metta, Martina didn’t write Concrete Angels but she certainly connected to the song.

I really liked the early work of Martina, Concrete Angels about the tragedy of child abuse, Independence Day and the theme of domestic abuse and Broken Wings,once again domestic abuse. She reminded me somewhat of Pat Benetar with her passionate,edgy performances.And her songs made a statement about problems in our society.

I am really psyched for Lakisha to sing tis. I hope she can look insider herself,find the emotions and give us a powerhouse performance.

rad, thanks for answering me honestly.

I really don’t mean this in an insulting way, but I’ve always suspected that part of the reason that Katharine is so popular is because people–notably young girls–see their own imperfections in her and probably feel reassured about themselves. Cool…I guess. (I don’t see it; I see mean and entitled and snotty, you see dork, maybe it’s a little bit of both, but we’re just gonna have to agree to disagree on that one).

Oh, and I’m certainly never going to hold being pretty against Kat, but I’m not going to pretend that she’s perfect or deserving of admiration for it, either. This isn’t directed at your or even anyone here, but the way some of her fans (you know where) idolize her (“OMG its Kat in glasses!” “OMG it’s Kat barefoot!”) is really…strange. It’s also strange to me how there’s always an excuse for her. She says something stupid or bitchy about a fellow contestant or performer? “LOL she’s just being dorky omg I love her!” She comes off as a total ass in an interview? “It must be nerves/the flight/tiredness/sickness/insert excuse here but omg lol she looks so pretty and her dog is so cute!” I mean, she can just. fucking. do. no. wrong. (Of course, she’s prone to giving her own excuses for her less-than-stellar performances and behavior.)

Meh. Being a fan of hers, I can see and understand. Thinking she’s some kind of embodiement of dorktastic perfection, someone to be admired? I’ll never, ever get it. It’s not like she’s going to be a ruinous influence on children or anything, but I don’t see her as much of a role model. Someone to identify with, maybe. A role model? Heh. No.

…Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m never going to understand how someone could love that interview.

I’ll see you and raise you one.

I’m never going to understand how someone could like that interviewee.

Do much copying and pasting, Kat? LOL

….can’t crack F_AI_J’s code…..

Kat knows what I mean. No code.

Dang! Just listened to a snippet of Brooks & Dunn’s “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” that Sanjaya’s been spoiled to sing. This could be a train wreck. I hope not! :blink_tb:

Whatever you say about McTatas she better looking and a better singer than Moley.. she screwed up plenty but had a few shining moments.

Former AI Junkie…

…yep.

Just skimmed over today’s thread and I have to say: Wow! I agreed with EVERYTHING folk said! Interesting…

Also, Steve-O, I just moved from St. Louis, and it’s like we lived in two different cities! No metal detectors at schools, no searches at Walmart (although I’m a Target girl myself), none of that. St. Louis is made up of lots of teeny tiny little burgs – maybe that’s it. Webster Groves of St. Louis was like a lovely little town. What you’ve experienced certainly doesn’t apply to the city as a whole.

and i made my statement abotu virginia with knowledge. as a former resident of virginia, and several other states, and a person who has researched thisà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦

folk, your initial post never mentioned you lived in Va but that you visited because your brother went to school there. That came a little late to the party.

NTL, I don’t think turning this sad occasion into a platform for your personal politics is fair to the people who died today or their families. Surely there’s a soapbox in Boston you can rent.

Oh, sick, evil people will finish what they start whether they use guns, gasoline, fertilizer, whatever it takes. Just as easy to get and use.

They should have had all the security cameras working and made sure people stayed indoors. Also, you could educate people on what to do in those situations. I’d put the blame on the police this time.

Former AIJ…….. The blame is on the shooter………..we have gotten too used to blaming everyone but the person responsible or putting people in rehab for opening their big mouths.

wow carolina…way to contribute to productive discourse.

looks like you cannot rebute the argument so you went for personal attack.

not only have a lived in virginia…for a significant period of time…but i am well acquainted with the topic, both on the state and federal level.

I believe in requiring a license for guns – makes sense. But getting rid of the guns is not the solution. In 1983, a man walked into a Winn Dixie here in Florida and doused the customers with gasoline and set them on fire. Three died including a close friend of my sister and 10 other were severely injured. I think we need to find out why our society is becoming more and more sociopathic/disassociated. As the video games and tv shows escalate in violence so does our society. It’s time for responsible programming.

ETA: As cheesy as AI is, I love that it is family friendly show (in spite of Simon’s comments.)

The blame is on the shooter

Amen to that mad. What a sad, sad day. A horrific tragedy has befallen the students of Va Tech. A tragedy that will effect many more people than those killed and injured. I’d love to find a reason, someone to blame, an idea we could hold onto to make sure this never happens again.

Unfortunately that is probably an unattainable goal. It’s far too early and way too easy to point the finger at law enforcement or the university (since I’m sure that one’s
coming next). You cannot reason with unreasonable people no matter how many laws you put on paper, no matter how many cameras you point at the street.

I respect all of your opinions and am encouraged by how passionately you each defend them. An apathetic people is one that will never take action. You all give me hope for the futre.

For today, I’ll be keeping the people of Virginia and the law abiding citizens of our nation in my thoughts.

I was shocked to read and am very, very sorry about the Virginia Tech tragedy. I hope no one from here or their friends or loved ones was part of that horrible experience. I pray for all those who died and their affected families and community.

I know Kat isn’t perfect and that’s why i like her, because she isn’t afraid to show her imperfections. Some see it as her fishing for compliments, but i see it as a girl who is slowly coming around to who she is as a person, fitting into her own skin and realizing just who she is. I also don’t see why people bring up Kat all the time if they don’t like her, just to point out her flaws (not necessarly directed at anyone here just a general observation) I could talk about how Taylor doesn’t know who Franz Ferdinad is, or post unflattering pictures of him, but i choose not to because a) it’s not going to change anyones opinion of him b) it just seems petty, i don’t mind Taylor, but i don’t follow his every career move or watch all his performances/interviews just to talk about everything he did wrong. I don’t do it simply because i don’t care enough about him, same with all the other idols. I follow Kat because I like her, and that should really be the only reason to be so invested in someones career.

I think the first person to be blamed is definately the shooter, but after that there’s wondering as to why the university/police did not act quicker? Why they were investigating the two murders across campus the shooter opened fire and killed 30 more people. Students were still attending class, I thought after Columbine there would be proceedures put into place to prevent things like that happening again but I guess I was wrong. It’s sad to see that someones mental state is so far gone that they feel this is the only thing left for them to do.

It’s finally my turn for DWTS, but wanted to say, that they just showed the Virginia gun laws on CNN, and I must say that I was taken aback when it said that one only has to be 12 or above to obtain a firearm. Surely this will cause them to rethink their laws even though todays shooter was older. Also, that their rating is a C-. I think some good always comes out of tragedy, even if it is too late for the victims.

It is being reported that the shooter was a foreigner in this country on a student visa. I thought there were laws that are supposed to prevent non-citizens from buying guns. Am I wrong ?
This massacre has an element that brings to mind the school massacre in Russia where the killers chained the doors shut so that the victims couldn’t escape.
Over two hours passed from the time of the first shooting until authorities warned students that a gunman was loose on campus. INEXCUSABLE ! Had warnings went out at 7:15 when the first shootings happened those people in the Norris Hall might be alive tonight.

I thought after Columbine there would be proceedures put into place to prevent things like that happening again

The difference being Columbine is one enclosed building. A college with numerous buildings on acres of property is a far different animal altogether.

Also, Steve-O, I just moved from St. Louis, and ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s like we lived in two different cities! No metal detectors at schools, no searches at Walmart (although Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m a Target girl myself), none of that. St. Louis is made up of lots of teeny tiny little burgs – maybe thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s it. Webster Groves of St. Louis was like a lovely little town. What youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve experienced certainly doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t apply to the city as a whole.

Webster Groves is a pretty affluent suburb of St. Louis, I live very close to downtown….definately Webster is a totally different land from where I live. I’m about 1 block from the old projects, which are now new projects…lol

just watched the concrete angel video. Please pass the kleenex. I watched the grammy performance but on the same page, I found the actual video of the song. Way, way worse. how incredibly sad.

Ack! I don’t know how to edit anymore…but

I thought there were laws that are supposed to prevent non-citizens from buying guns.

Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

Why they were investigating the two murders across campus the shooter opened fire and killed 30 more people.

It’s funny because when I heard how long that person had before he killed the kids at that University, I was shocked and started to asked the same question. Then I started to read and realize how easy it was for this person, who was not walking around with a gun in his hand just shooting at random, to do what he did and get away with it. Coupled that with the time of day and the fact that most folks are coming back from the weekend and the fact that he did not stay in one place, made me realize that it was not hard for time to lapse and no one knowing what was really about to unfold untilit was too late. Hindsight will always be twenty-twenty. That’s why it’s easy for us to sit and say why didn’t the school do this and that. I’m sure we will learn a lot more about the mindset of this person and just how he was able to do what he did and get away with it as time goes by. But, the time lapsing and University not being aware of this person’s next move is not unique.

I remembered a few years ago, a crimal blew away a judge, his lawyer and a guard. He was able to overpower the female guard who was watching him before he entered the courtroom and take her gun. I though everything about that incident was just wrong. CNN news was on top of it right away because it happen, I believe, right across the street from the CNN building. They had an APD out within a heartbeat to look out for this guy. They had every highway leaving the city of Atlanta blocked because a surveillance camera caught the guy in the underground parking lot of the CNN building. With all that coverage, in which I was watching, the guy was able to jump on the turnstile and get on a train and ride into a suburbs where he killed another person. Only after he took another life did anyone realize where he was. Despite all the coverage from the time this guy committed his crime, he was still able to just jump on a train and ride out of the city with passengers….

So, even with millions of eyes glued to their tv sets watching this incident unfold, this guy was able to move around comfortably and not get caught. No one recognized him anywhere. He Finally turned himself in when he was talked into it by another one of his victims..Hmmm, the next day.

Unfortunately, what took place at the university is extremely sad and I’m sure everyone both for and against gun laws will use this incident to push their personal agenda. I’m sure the Lawyers are already lining up and salivating at the prospect of taking the school to task but I hope the reality of this tragedy is not lost. Once again, innoncent lives are lost at the hands of a person who decided that his personal issues could not be dealt with the healthy way. He needed to take his life and a few people with him.

I am all for changing, adjusting, admending and even abolishing laws. If it really will benefit us in the longrun. But, someone has to explain to me how getting rid of a law will stop a person who has snapped and is on their personal mission to hurt or even worst, kill.

Maybe it’s just me and my suspicious nature but something just doesn’t make any sense here. You get jilted by your girlfriend and then you wipe out 32 people ?? I think that there is more to this story than we’ve been told so far and we may never hear the whole story. As long ago as Columbine happened they are still not releasing all the police reports of that tragedy and now a judge in Denver is considering sealing them for 25 years. The parents of the murdered students are sueing to get all information released. These families deserve the truth and in a country that is supposed to be so open and free all citizens deserve the whole truth about these incidents.

Watch for Dave from VFTW on Stern and Letterman today.

Former AIJ………….where did you get the info on Dave appearing on Letterman? He is not a scheduled guest. Is he part of one of the short skits that they sometimes have on? I won’t see Letterman for an hour and a half.

I mean tomorrow then.. I’m not American and I have no idea what the time is out there.

folk
Apr 16th, 2007 at 10:29 pm
wow carolinaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦way to contribute to productive discourse.

looks like you cannot rebute the argument so you went for personal attack.

not only have a lived in virginiaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦for a significant period of timeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦but i am well acquainted with the topic, both on the state and federal level.

Wow folk, sorry if you felt I attacked you. As you well know I could rebute you and you could call me an idiot again!… but that would solve nothing. Still, I do question your complete and total knowledge of all Virginia although it only takes about 3 minutes to find state gun control laws on the net.

That said, I find it disconcerting whenever anyone professes to have complete and solid knowledge of every law nationwide they consider wayward and do nothing but complain about it, particularly on a music blog. There are political forums available.

Certainly everyone here is saddened and distressed over what happened today and would like to see someone come up with a fair and equitable solution to gun control nationwide. Maybe if you chose the right approach and correct avenue you could be the one !

Hi Taylor was awesome tonite at The Birchmere…This was the best one I have seen…Was at Lancaster and Atlantic City…His vocals were spot on…The band was smoking and jamming tonite….Many males in audience…Spoke with 2 males before concert and was hoping for AI Taylor and I told them no way….This Taylor is a 1000x’s better…After the concert I caught up with them again..Woody was amazed…Sam said he did not know who that was on stage tonite…He said that AI really tied his hands behind his back on the show…He couldn’t believe it….

The collected spoilers of VFTW’s Scrappy:

1. Phil Stacey – “Ain’t Goin’ Down Till The Sun Goes Up” by Garth Brooks
2. Jordin Sparks – “You’re Still The One” by Shania Twain
3. Sanjaya Malakar – “Boot Scootin Boogie” by Brooks & Dunn
4. Lakisha Jones – “Concrete Angel” by Martina McBride
5. Chris Richardson – “Over And Over” by Nelly and Tim McGraw
6. Melinda Doolittle – “Why Haven’t I Heard From You” by Reba McEntire
7. Blake Lewis – “Come A Little Closer” by Dierks Bentley

Scrappy: These are real. I have connections to Martina’s camp.

Hey. New info. Blake impressed Martina and producers and will definitely be going last. He will be performing an acoustic, funky version of the song.

Hey. This will likely be last info I get. Jordin originally chose “I Will Always Love You”, got it cleared, and was expected to go last and Blake was expected to go last next week for Idol Gives Back. Jordin really impressed in early rehearsals and it was suggested to her that she save it for her inspirational song next week and perform it acappella, which she agreed to.

Sexy re: V techs response:

Hindsight will always be twenty-twenty. Thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s why ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s easy for us to sit and say why didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t the school do this and that.

Word.

Dang! Jordin BETTER be really good with “I Will Always Love You”! That song has been done To Death.