Where do I begin? I am somewhat of an awards show junkie. I have always loved to watch the shows for the performances, and most of all the CLOTHES! Oh how BET disappointed me, let me count the ways. LOL I was especially excited about the awards show because it was supposed to be a tribute to the legacy of Michael Jackson. In BET's defense, they did have to do a very quick turn around since MJ had just passed away on Thursday, but they seriously could have done a better job. The show opened somewhat decently with a tribute from New Edition, including a "healthy" and intoxicated looking Bobby Brown. Jamie Fox was okay as a host but as you can always expect from him he was over the top and not necessarily in a good way. The whole show was basically the Jamie Fox show. The performances were beyond lackluster, most notably Soulja Boy Tellum, and Ciara who should have done a DANCING tribute not vocal. There were some nice moments. Beyonce's bold and beautiful rendition of Ave Maria and the Johnny Gill/Tyrese/Trey Songs tribute to the O'Jays. Jamie Fox and Neyo also ended with a touching tribute to MJ. Those were the highlights for real. Even the fashion was a big disappointment. The outfits went from blah to downright tragic. There were some big names that were missing from the show that was downright unacceptable! The artists include Usher, Mariah Carey and even Justin Timberlake. I know some are recording projects or on tour but they could have done a satellite feed or something!
I think Joe Jackson's appearance at the show was shameful. I know everyone grieves in their own way but looking at the great time he appeared to be having was not the look of a man that had lost his child only days before. Janet Jackson's brief appearance at the end of the night was far more appropriate. She gave heart felt thanks to all the fans and supporters and then left, unlike her father who was there from the red carpet throughout the show and probably hit up some after parties. I almost forgot to mention some of the worst offenders...believe it or not....Mary Mary!! They sang "The God in Me" and took Jesus straight to the club! People following the show on Twitter commented on the tight clothes, worldly dance moves and the song itself. One twitterer commented that he knew they were supposed to be singing for the Lord, but sounded like they had the devil in them. SMH That's one of mild comments. Wow.
Thank you for tolerating my rant. These are just a FEW of my observations from this mess of an awards show. The show had been getting more polished and together, but last night proved a big step backwards. What is even more frightening than the horrific awards show is the line-up of hot mess new reality shows that were promoted to death during the commercial breaks. Debra Lee should be ashamed at the direction this network is taking. BET's programming is serving to showcase every stereotype of African-American culture that has ever existed.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Friday, June 26, 2009
R.I.P. Michael Jackson
Where do I begin? I couldn't believe the news of Michael's death when a caller reached me here at the radio station and asked if I had heard about him being admitted to the hospital. I had just arrived at work and had not been near a tv or the internet as of yet. While the caller was on the line with me I went to www.yahoo.com and at that time all that was confirmed was that he had indeed been rushed to hospital with an apparent cardiac arrest. I immediately prayed that he would pull through but as I would later learn by that time he was already dead.
I have been absolutely sick since finding out this devastating news. I mourn along with millions of fans all over the world. Michael's music transcended all musical genres and all demographics. We will never see such a star again and he will be truly missed. I'll never forget watching the 25th Anniversary of Motown along with my great-grandmother. She was not much for television watching and definitely only listened to gospel, but I remember her being absolutely transfixed right along with me as we watched him glide across the stage. The only non-gospel music she had ever purchased for me had been the early Jackson 5 records. She called them "those Jackson boys." LOL I remember her asking me that night, "Isn't that one of those Jackson boy?" I told her it was Michael and I remember her smiling and praising his dancing.
I also look back at the beginning of my career in radio. At that time Michael's song "Remember the Time" was hot on the radio. I know there are so many people who can equate certain times in their lives that coincide with Michael's music. This is really aging myself but I remember the "Thriller" video coming out when I was in the 8th grade. I didn't have cable at home but I would go to friend's houses that did and watch all his music on the then new MTV channel. Michael may be gone but his memory will live forever.
My heart goes out to his children and his family. We fans are mourning the musical icon, but his family mourn the man that he was. Please remember to pray for them. I know what it's like to lose a sibling and parents. It's a devastating loss. I thank God for blessing us with the musical talent of Michael Jackson. In his own way he did make the world a better place with his music.
Love,
J
I have been absolutely sick since finding out this devastating news. I mourn along with millions of fans all over the world. Michael's music transcended all musical genres and all demographics. We will never see such a star again and he will be truly missed. I'll never forget watching the 25th Anniversary of Motown along with my great-grandmother. She was not much for television watching and definitely only listened to gospel, but I remember her being absolutely transfixed right along with me as we watched him glide across the stage. The only non-gospel music she had ever purchased for me had been the early Jackson 5 records. She called them "those Jackson boys." LOL I remember her asking me that night, "Isn't that one of those Jackson boy?" I told her it was Michael and I remember her smiling and praising his dancing.
I also look back at the beginning of my career in radio. At that time Michael's song "Remember the Time" was hot on the radio. I know there are so many people who can equate certain times in their lives that coincide with Michael's music. This is really aging myself but I remember the "Thriller" video coming out when I was in the 8th grade. I didn't have cable at home but I would go to friend's houses that did and watch all his music on the then new MTV channel. Michael may be gone but his memory will live forever.
My heart goes out to his children and his family. We fans are mourning the musical icon, but his family mourn the man that he was. Please remember to pray for them. I know what it's like to lose a sibling and parents. It's a devastating loss. I thank God for blessing us with the musical talent of Michael Jackson. In his own way he did make the world a better place with his music.
Love,
J
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Happy Father's Day
I want to sincerely wish all father's a happy Father's Day. My father was in my life just three short years before he died. It's a long and complicated story that I won't bore you with now. I treasured each and every day that we had as father and daughter. I can also honestly say that I probably would have made different decisions in my life up until then where boys were concerned. When the paternal relationship is missing in a child's life, that child can tend to try and replace that emptiness with someone or something else. I hope all of you father's realize how important you are in the life of your child and from day one.
Once again, Happy Father's Day! Know that you are loved and treasured beyond measure.
J
Once again, Happy Father's Day! Know that you are loved and treasured beyond measure.
J
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Vacation Bible School Time!!
It is that time of year again! I'm talking about vacation Bible school time. I remember growing up and getting sent to just about every vacation Bible school in the Galesburg area. My great-grandmother who raised me was Church of God in Christ in denomination but for some reason sent me to just about every church that was having vacation Bible school. LOL Now in hindsight I know it was all about the free day care, but it was tons of fun. I strongly encourage you to send your kids. It's a great chance to fellowship with other church going kids and learn more about the Bible in a fun environment. I have to plug my own church's vacation Bible school.
Take this as a special invitation to you from me to attend vacation Bible school at the Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ, Monday June 22nd through Thursday June 25th. The theme this year is "Cosmic City: Explore the Awesome Wonder of God." It's for all ages and runs from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Come on out for the fun!
In all seriousness, Vacation Bible School is a great experience and will make great memories for your whole family. Make it a great tradition. I want to hear some of your VBS experiences!
J
Take this as a special invitation to you from me to attend vacation Bible school at the Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ, Monday June 22nd through Thursday June 25th. The theme this year is "Cosmic City: Explore the Awesome Wonder of God." It's for all ages and runs from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Come on out for the fun!
In all seriousness, Vacation Bible School is a great experience and will make great memories for your whole family. Make it a great tradition. I want to hear some of your VBS experiences!
J
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
State Funding for Social Services
Hello blog buddies,
This blog is a plea for you to act on behalf of social services in the Central Illinois area. The State of Illinois, like many in our country, is experiencing tough economic times. Funding for social services is in jeopardy, to the point that many agencies providing much needed services in our community may be eliminated. If you or someone you love has been the victim of domestic violence, elder abuse, or even sexual assault then you know the invaluable services provided by agencies such as the Center for Prevention of Abuse. This is but one of many agencies whose services may be drastically cut or shut down. Understandably the State needs to pay its bills, which are way past due, but we must remember that our society is only as strong as we take care of those in need. Homeless shelters, addiction recovery programs, even adult education and literacy services could be on the chopping block.
You can help by simply taking a few minutes to make a phone call. Our State legislators need to hear your opinion, and it counts more than you may know. Please let them know that they need to pass the proposed state income tax increase which would help pay for these valuable services. Let them know the services that you are most interested in saving and the agencies that provide those services. When you call you be speaking to their administrative assistants and not directly to the legislators. Do not be discouraged, the messages are forwarded to our representatives. Below is a list of our local representatives. Please call today.
Peoria - Rep. Jehan Gordon - 217-782-3186
Peoria - Rep. David Leitch - 217-782-8108
Tazewell - Rep. Keith Sommer - 217-782-0221
Tazewell - Rep. Mike Smith - 217-782-8152
Thank you for taking the time to let your voice be heard.
J
This blog is a plea for you to act on behalf of social services in the Central Illinois area. The State of Illinois, like many in our country, is experiencing tough economic times. Funding for social services is in jeopardy, to the point that many agencies providing much needed services in our community may be eliminated. If you or someone you love has been the victim of domestic violence, elder abuse, or even sexual assault then you know the invaluable services provided by agencies such as the Center for Prevention of Abuse. This is but one of many agencies whose services may be drastically cut or shut down. Understandably the State needs to pay its bills, which are way past due, but we must remember that our society is only as strong as we take care of those in need. Homeless shelters, addiction recovery programs, even adult education and literacy services could be on the chopping block.
You can help by simply taking a few minutes to make a phone call. Our State legislators need to hear your opinion, and it counts more than you may know. Please let them know that they need to pass the proposed state income tax increase which would help pay for these valuable services. Let them know the services that you are most interested in saving and the agencies that provide those services. When you call you be speaking to their administrative assistants and not directly to the legislators. Do not be discouraged, the messages are forwarded to our representatives. Below is a list of our local representatives. Please call today.
Peoria - Rep. Jehan Gordon - 217-782-3186
Peoria - Rep. David Leitch - 217-782-8108
Tazewell - Rep. Keith Sommer - 217-782-0221
Tazewell - Rep. Mike Smith - 217-782-8152
Thank you for taking the time to let your voice be heard.
J